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Author: RoyalDouglas

  • With Heavy Hearts: Remembering James Francis Skarda IV of Dundalk, Maryland

    With Heavy Hearts: Remembering James Francis Skarda IV of Dundalk, Maryland

    With Heavy Hearts: Remembering James Francis Skarda IV of Dundalk, Maryland

    DUNDALK, MARYLAND — With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of James Francis Skarda IV, who departed this life on July 7, 2025, at the tender age of 35. A beloved son, brother, friend, and community member, James’ untimely departure has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew and loved him. His passing is felt deeply not only by his immediate family but by the entire community of Dundalk—a place he called home, and where he built a life full of kindness, courage, and quiet strength.

    Born and raised in Dundalk, James embodied the hardworking spirit and close-knit values for which this Maryland community is known. Nestled along the Patapsco River and bearing the legacy of generations of blue-collar laborers, Dundalk is a town shaped by resilience—and James was a reflection of that very same spirit. He was a product of the local schools, a fixture at neighborhood cookouts, and a familiar face at community events. To those who knew him best, he was loyal to a fault, fiercely devoted to his loved ones, and always willing to lend a helping hand—no matter the hour.

    From a young age, James showed a curious mind and an ambitious heart. He was passionate about cars, mechanics, and how things worked—often found tinkering with engines in the driveway or helping a neighbor fix something around the house. After high school, James pursued a career in the trades, working as an auto technician and later as a mechanical supervisor. His hands were calloused from hard work, but his heart was soft for the people he cared about.

    Beyond his work, James had a love for life that was infectious. Whether he was on a fishing trip with his friends along Back River, watching the Ravens play on Sunday, or taking long motorcycle rides through the Chesapeake Bay region, he lived life with intensity and purpose. He was known for his quick wit, his heartfelt laugh, and his ability to make anyone feel at home. His friendships ran deep, and he remained loyal to his roots, never forgetting where he came from.

    James was also a deeply devoted family man. He was the cherished son of James Skarda III and Mary Ellen Skarda, and a loving brother to Michelle Skarda and Andrew Skarda. To his nieces and nephews, he was more than just an uncle—he was a role model, a protector, and a playful spirit who could always be counted on for a laugh or an impromptu adventure. The bond he shared with his family was unbreakable, and his absence leaves an ache that words cannot soothe.

    In recent years, James had begun to embrace a quieter lifestyle, focusing more on his personal growth, faith, and mental health. He often spoke about wanting to leave a legacy of goodness, to make a difference no matter how small. In many ways, he already had—through his kindness, generosity, and the impact he left on everyone who crossed his path.

    His passing was sudden and unexpected, a cruel reminder of the fragility of life. The pain of his loss reverberates throughout Dundalk and beyond, with countless individuals coming forward to share stories of how James touched their lives. From neighbors who recall his unfailing kindness to coworkers who respected his integrity, the tributes continue to pour in, painting a portrait of a man whose time was too short, but whose impact was lasting.

    A celebration of James’ life will be held in the coming days in his beloved Dundalk. Friends, family, and community members are invited to gather in remembrance, to share stories, laughter, and tears as they honor the life of a man who gave so much of himself to others.

    As the Skarda family navigates this period of mourning, they are comforted by the outpouring of love and support from the community James loved so dearly. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will forever remain in the streets of Dundalk, in the hearts of those who knew him, and in the legacy of kindness he leaves behind.

    Rest in eternal peace, James Francis Skarda IV. You will never be forgotten.

  • Jacksonville, FL — Community Demands Answers After Police Killing of Jamari Akins

    Jacksonville, FL — Community Demands Answers After Police Killing of Jamari Akins

    Jacksonville, FL — Community Demands Answers After Police Killing of Jamari Akins

    The city of Jacksonville, Florida, is once again at the epicenter of grief, outrage, and calls for justice following the fatal police shooting of Jamari Akins, a young Black man whose life ended tragically during a confrontation with officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). The incident has left Jamari’s family shattered and the community demanding transparency, accountability, and a full, independent investigation.

    According to an official statement from the JSO, the fatal encounter occurred following reports of an armed robbery in a Northside neighborhood late Monday evening. Officers alleged that Jamari, who was 22 years old, matched the description of a suspect believed to be armed and dangerous. They claim he fled when approached and brandished a weapon, prompting officers to fire. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

    However, the official narrative is being met with deep skepticism by many in the Jacksonville community, especially those who knew Jamari personally. Friends and family describe him as a kind-hearted, driven young man who had his share of struggles but was working hard to turn his life around. He had recently started a job in construction and was enrolled in night classes at Florida State College at Jacksonville, with hopes of pursuing a career in HVAC repair.

    “Jamari wasn’t perfect, but he was trying,” said his mother, LaTrina Akins, during a tearful vigil held in Springfield Park. “He was my baby, and he did not deserve to die like this—alone, scared, and gunned down like he didn’t matter.”

    Witness accounts from the scene vary. Some residents claim to have heard officers yelling commands and then a sudden barrage of gunfire. Others say they didn’t see a weapon on Jamari. Cell phone footage captured by a bystander, which has been circulating on social media, appears to show officers standing over his body without rendering immediate aid, further intensifying public anger.

    Civil rights organizations, local clergy, and activists have joined Jamari’s family in calling for an independent investigation led by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) or the U.S. Department of Justice. They’re also pushing for the release of body-worn camera footage from all officers involved in the shooting, which the JSO has so far withheld, citing an “ongoing investigation.”

    “Black lives in Jacksonville continue to be treated as disposable,” said Reverend Allen Thompson, a prominent community leader and member of the Jacksonville Community Action Committee (JCAC). “We’re not just demanding answers—we’re demanding a systemic overhaul. We are tired of burying our sons.”

    This isn’t the first time the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has faced scrutiny over its use of force, particularly against Black residents. According to a 2024 study by the Florida Center for Investigative Reporting, Jacksonville ranks among the highest cities in the state for police shootings per capita, with an overwhelming number involving young Black men. Advocates argue that patterns of racial profiling, lack of officer accountability, and an opaque internal investigation process have eroded trust between law enforcement and the communities they are sworn to protect.

    Jamari’s family has retained legal counsel and is preparing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Their attorney, Marcus Bell, emphasized that transparency and accountability must be non-negotiable. “We will get justice for Jamari Akins. This is not just about one family’s grief—it’s about a broken system that allows this to keep happening.”

    Protests and rallies are expected to continue throughout the week, with calls for city officials to take immediate action, including suspending the officers involved, implementing body cam policy reforms, and creating a civilian review board with the power to investigate police misconduct independently.

    As candles continue to flicker at memorials across the city and chants of “Say his name—Jamari Akins!” echo in the streets, one thing is clear: Jacksonville is at a crossroads. The pain is raw, the demands are clear, and the community is united in its pursuit of truth, justice, and changed

  • On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at approximately 3:14 p.m., Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen announced that at 2382 Barton Chapel Road, outside the One Stop convenience store, his team was responding to a homicide scene

    On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at approximately 3:14 p.m., Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen announced that at 2382 Barton Chapel Road, outside the One Stop convenience store, his team was responding to a homicide scene

    • On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at approximately 3:14 p.m., Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen announced that at 2382 Barton Chapel Road, outside the One Stop convenience store, his team was responding to a homicide scene

    • A 28-year-old man—Raekwon Brinson, who lived on the 2700 block of the same road—was shot at least once and pronounced dead at 2:52 p.m.

    📍 Scene description

    • The store parking lot was cordoned off with yellow crime‑scene tape by 4 p.m., as officers and crime‑scene technicians inspected the storefront beneath its red awning .

    • Officers deployed a K‑9 unit to search littered areas around the premises—including beneath trees and near a pile of old tires .

    • According to local reporting, the scene featured faded pay phones and scattered debris, giving the area a notably neglected appearance .

    🔍 Contextual background

    • This shooting is one of many violent incidents that have increased significantly in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) over the past three years, with hundreds of fatalities reported

    • Augusta, the CSRA’s largest city, has been particularly afflicted by this surge in violent crime

    👤 Victim: Raekwon Brinson

    • A 28-year-old resident of Barton Chapel Road, Brinson was fatally struck outside a business located on his own street—adding a personal and communal shock to the incident

    • Authorities have scheduled an autopsy to determine the specifics of his injury and exact cause of death .

    🚨 Investigation status

    • Richmond County authorities are actively investigating. It remains unclear if a suspect has been identified or arrested—officials have not released any suspect descriptions yet 📋.

    • The coroner’s involvement suggests this is being treated as a confirmed homicide, and further forensic efforts are underway.

    📌 Why this matters

    • The location—a local convenience store—underscores how non-residential, everyday spots can become scenes of extreme violence.

    • The tragedy hits especially hard because Brinson lived on the same street, emphasizing how violence affects local communities and residents who are otherwise not connected to crime.

    🔭 Next steps

    • Autopsy results will clarify fatal wounds and potentially the weapon used.

    • Investigators will likely review surveillance footage, interview any nearby witnesses, and analyze forensic evidence to determine motive and identify suspects.

    • Community leaders and law enforcement may use this incident to consider new crime-fighting strategies or safety protocols at local businesses.

    🔚 Summary

    Raekwon Brinson, 28, of Barton Chapel Road, was shot and killed Thursday afternoon outside the One Stop convenience store. His death represents the continuing rise of violent crime across Richmond County and the CSRA as a whole. Investigators are actively examining the scene, awaiting autopsy findings, and continuing efforts to shed light on the circumstances—and hopefully bring justice.

  • COLUMBUS, Ga. — Tragic Loss Near Lakebottom Park: Remembering Dr. Gilbert Maulsby

    COLUMBUS, Ga. — Tragic Loss Near Lakebottom Park: Remembering Dr. Gilbert Maulsby

    COLUMBUS, Ga. — Tragic Loss Near Lakebottom Park: Remembering Dr. Gilbert Maulsby

    Columbus, Georgia, is reeling with sorrow after a tragic accident near Lakebottom Park claimed the life of a beloved member of the community. The victim has been identified as Dr. Gilbert Maulsby, a retired physician who served Columbus and its surrounding areas with distinction, compassion, and unwavering dedication for more than four decades.

    The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning near the scenic walking trails of Lakebottom Park — a place Dr. Maulsby was known to frequent for his daily walks and moments of reflection. According to preliminary reports, the accident involved a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but despite their efforts, Dr. Maulsby was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the crash remains ongoing.

    A Life of Healing and Service

    Dr. Gilbert Maulsby, 76, was a pillar of the Columbus medical community. He graduated from Emory University School of Medicine and went on to complete his residency at the Medical College of Georgia. Returning to his hometown in the late 1970s, he opened a family practice clinic on Warm Springs Road, where he treated generations of patients with empathy, professionalism, and care.

    Known not only for his medical acumen but also for his deep kindness, Dr. Maulsby often provided free or reduced-cost care for patients in financial need. He was also a regular volunteer at local health fairs and clinics, extending his reach far beyond his private practice.

    Colleagues recall him as a humble leader and mentor. Younger physicians often turned to him for guidance and support, and his influence can be felt across the medical community in Columbus. “Dr. Maulsby was the kind of doctor every patient hopes to find — compassionate, patient, and entirely devoted to healing,” said Dr. Elaine Tucker, a former colleague. “He made you feel seen, heard, and valued.”

    Devoted Husband, Father, and Grandfather

    Outside the medical profession, Dr. Maulsby was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Margaret “Maggie” Maulsby, three children — Jennifer, Christopher, and Andrew — and six grandchildren who adored their “Poppy.” Family members describe him as gentle, wise, and always available with a listening ear and warm smile. He loved nature, classical music, and tinkering with old radios and books from his vast home library.

    Friends and family say Lakebottom Park held a special place in Dr. Maulsby’s heart. It was where he often walked with his late Labrador, Henry, and where he proposed to his wife many years ago under a canopy of oaks. The tragic irony that his life ended in such a familiar, cherished place has only deepened the grief.

    A Community in Mourning

    News of Dr. Maulsby’s passing spread quickly across Columbus, prompting an outpouring of tributes on social media and in local community spaces. Patients, neighbors, and friends have come forward to share heartfelt memories, expressing gratitude for the impact he had on their lives. Many recall how he remembered every patient by name, and how his calm, reassuring demeanor provided comfort in even the most uncertain moments.

    Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson released a statement honoring Dr. Maulsby’s legacy: “The city of Columbus has lost not just a doctor, but a moral compass, a quiet leader, and a deeply respected man who dedicated his life to serving others. Dr. Maulsby’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched.”

    Memorial Plans

    The Maulsby family has announced that a public memorial service will be held this Saturday at St. Luke United Methodist Church, where Dr. Maulsby was a longtime member and lay leader. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Columbus Free Clinic — a nonprofit health center that Dr. Maulsby supported both financially and through years of volunteer service.

    In the words of one of his former patients: “Dr. Maulsby didn’t just heal the body — he healed the spirit. Columbus is a better place because of him.”

    As the community of Columbus grieves this devastating loss, it also celebrates the extraordinary life of a man who gave everything to serve, to heal, and to uplift. Rest in peace, Dr. Gilbert Maulsby — your life was a gift to all who knew you.

  • EAGLE POINT, Ore. — The community mourns the tragic loss of Zackary Bolf

    EAGLE POINT, Ore. — The community mourns the tragic loss of Zackary Bolf

    EAGLE POINT, Ore. — The community mourns the tragic loss of Zackary Bolf

    EAGLE POINT, Ore. — The tight-knit community of Eagle Point is reeling in sorrow and disbelief following the heartbreaking and unexpected loss of Zackary Bolf, who tragically passed away on July 4, 2025, following a devastating accident. Zackary’s sudden passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His vibrant spirit, infectious smile, and kind-hearted nature made an indelible impact on everyone he met, and his absence will be deeply felt throughout the community.

    Zackary, lovingly known as “Zack” by many, was a young man full of promise, compassion, and joy. He was known for his boundless energy, his loyalty to those he cared about, and a personality that could light up even the darkest of days. Whether he was out exploring nature, helping a neighbor in need, or sharing a laugh with friends, Zack lived each day with sincerity and enthusiasm. He had a genuine love for the outdoors, often spending time hiking the trails around Eagle Point, fishing local rivers, or simply soaking in the beauty of Oregon’s landscape.

    Family was everything to Zack. A beloved son, brother, and grandson, he shared an unbreakable bond with those closest to him. He was a source of strength and laughter for his family, always ready to lend a hand or lift someone’s spirits. His parents described him as their greatest joy — a son who brought immense pride through his character, his actions, and his enduring kindness. His siblings looked up to him not only as a brother but as a best friend and mentor, someone who always had their back.

    Zackary was also a treasured friend to many. Known for his sense of humor and his ability to make others feel seen and heard, he built lasting friendships that spanned childhood through adulthood. His peers recall his generous heart and fierce loyalty — the type of friend who would drop everything to help someone in need. He had an incredible gift for making people feel important and valued, no matter who they were.

    In addition to his personal relationships, Zack was an active member of the Eagle Point community. Whether volunteering at local events, assisting with youth programs, or supporting local causes, he believed in giving back and making a difference. His loss has sent shockwaves through the town, as residents gather not only to grieve but also to celebrate a life that touched so many.

    As news of his tragic passing spread, an outpouring of support has enveloped the Bolf family. Vigils have been held, tributes written, and heartfelt memories shared — all honoring the young man who brought so much light into the lives of others. Though his life was cut far too short, the legacy Zackary leaves behind is one of love, compassion, and community.

    In these difficult days ahead, the family is asking for privacy as they navigate their grief. They are also deeply thankful for the kindness, meals, messages, and prayers being offered in Zack’s memory. A public memorial service is being planned and details will be shared with the community in the coming days.

    To know Zackary Bolf was to know joy, warmth, and genuine kindness. While the pain of his loss is immeasurable, so too is the love he gave and the lives he touched. His spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. He may be gone from this earth, but Zack’s light will never be forgotten.

  • Late-Night Shooting Rocks Community Near N Main Street and Ernst Avenue

    Late-Night Shooting Rocks Community Near N Main Street and Ernst Avenue

    Late-Night Shooting Rocks Community Near N Main Street and Ernst Avenue

    In a harrowing event that unfolded late Tuesday night, a shooting was reported near the intersection of North Main Street and Ernst Avenue at approximately 11:25 p.m., sending shockwaves through the surrounding neighborhood and prompting a swift and intense police response.

    According to authorities, multiple 911 calls flooded into dispatchers just moments after the shots were fired, with witnesses describing the sound of rapid gunfire echoing through the area. Officers were immediately dispatched to the scene, arriving within minutes to find a chaotic and unsettling scene marked by shell casings scattered across the pavement, the faint smell of gunpowder lingering in the air, and several visibly shaken residents standing nearby.

    Law enforcement officials have confirmed that at least one individual sustained injuries as a result of the shooting. The victim, whose identity has not been released pending notification of family, was found lying on the sidewalk near the curb, suffering from what appeared to be multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel rendered aid at the scene before transporting the individual to a nearby trauma center. As of early Wednesday morning, the victim remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

    Initial reports suggest that the incident may have stemmed from an altercation involving two or more individuals, though investigators have not yet determined a clear motive. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, and detectives are canvassing the area for additional witnesses or any information that might lead to the identification of a suspect.

    Residents of the neighborhood, many of whom were either settling in for the night or already asleep when the gunfire erupted, have expressed deep concern about the incident. “It was like fireworks, but much scarier,” said Angela Reyes, a local resident who lives two blocks from the scene. “I hit the floor when I heard it, and all I could think about was keeping my kids safe.”

    This shooting has added to a growing sense of anxiety in a community that has recently grappled with a rise in violent incidents. Local leaders and activists are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist law enforcement in bringing the perpetrator to justice. “We must take back our neighborhoods,” said Pastor Lionel Briggs of the nearby New Light Church. “This cannot become our new normal. We need unity, and we need answers.”

    The intersection of N Main Street and Ernst Avenue, typically a relatively quiet area lined with small businesses and residential homes, was temporarily cordoned off with crime scene tape as investigators worked through the early morning hours collecting evidence and conducting interviews. Flashing lights from squad cars illuminated the somber scene well into the night, a stark reminder of the violence that had erupted mere hours before.

    Police have yet to confirm whether the shooting was targeted or random. No arrests have been made as of this writing, and authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact the police tip line. All tips can remain anonymous.

    As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and a return to peace. In the aftermath of this tragic event, city officials are expected to address the public, reaffirming their commitment to safety and outlining steps to prevent further violence.

    For now, the neighborhood near N Main and Ernst remains scarred but resilient—holding onto hope that answers, and healing, will soon come.

  • Tragedy in Motion: Shots Fired Seconds After Police Confront Armed Man on Bicycle

    Tragedy in Motion: Shots Fired Seconds After Police Confront Armed Man on Bicycle

    Tragedy in Motion: Shots Fired Seconds After Police Confront Armed Man on Bicycle

    In a harrowing and fast-moving incident that unfolded within moments, authorities report that shots were fired mere seconds after officers confronted an armed man who was riding a bicycle. The confrontation, which took place in a densely populated neighborhood, has sparked intense public interest and concern as details continue to emerge.

    According to police statements, officers were responding to a call regarding a suspicious individual seen with a firearm. The man, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, was reportedly observed riding a bicycle in an erratic manner, drawing the attention of both passersby and law enforcement. Upon locating him, officers initiated a stop in what they describe as a rapidly evolving and high-risk situation.

    “As officers approached the subject to make contact, they immediately identified a weapon on his person,” a police spokesperson said during a press briefing. “Within seconds of the confrontation, shots were fired.”

    It remains unclear whether the man brandished the firearm, raised it at officers, or made a sudden movement that prompted the use of deadly force. Police have confirmed that body-worn camera footage exists and is currently under review as part of an internal investigation. The department has not yet stated whether the man fired any shots or how many officers discharged their weapons.

    Eyewitness accounts vary. Some nearby residents say they heard a brief verbal exchange followed by the rapid pop of gunfire. Others reported seeing the man fall from his bicycle as shots rang out, landing hard on the pavement as officers moved in.

    “He was just riding, then they shouted something, and suddenly there were gunshots,” said one witness, who asked to remain anonymous. “It all happened so fast.”

    Emergency medical services were called to the scene immediately, and the man was transported to a nearby hospital with critical injuries. His current condition has not been publicly disclosed. No officers were injured in the exchange.

    The scene was cordoned off for several hours as investigators collected evidence and spoke to witnesses. Forensic teams recovered a firearm at the scene, believed to belong to the suspect, though it remains under examination to determine whether it was loaded or operable.

    The incident has sparked a range of reactions from community members. Some expressed support for the officers’ quick response to a potentially deadly threat, while others voiced concern about the speed at which lethal force was employed.

    “People want to feel safe, but we also want to know that everyone’s lives are valued — including those who may be in crisis or making bad choices,” said community advocate Denise Carter. “We need transparency and a thorough investigation.”

    Local leaders have urged calm and patience as the investigation unfolds. The police department has pledged full cooperation with any independent reviews and has stated that all relevant footage will be released to the public once it has been properly redacted and reviewed.

    Civil rights organizations have also weighed in, calling for an impartial inquiry and raising questions about the department’s training and protocols for de-escalation, particularly when dealing with individuals on bicycles or in motion.

    “We’re seeing too many incidents where encounters escalate within seconds,” said ACLU regional director Marcus Greene. “That’s not just a matter of tactics — it’s about culture, policy, and accountability.”

    The officer-involved shooting comes at a time of heightened scrutiny for police departments across the country. With each new incident, communities are calling for a balance between public safety and the preservation of life, even in tense and uncertain situations.

    As the facts are assembled and official reports finalized, one truth remains: in a span of just a few seconds, a man’s life was irrevocably altered, a neighborhood was shaken, and yet another chapter was added to the complex national conversation about law enforcement, armed individuals, and the split-second decisions that can change everything.

  • Breaking Update: Man Hospitalized After Thursday Shooting – Suspect Also Tied to Earlier Gunfire Incident

    Breaking Update: Man Hospitalized After Thursday Shooting – Suspect Also Tied to Earlier Gunfire Incident

    Breaking Update: Man Hospitalized After Thursday Shooting – Suspect Also Tied to Earlier Gunfire Incident

    Authorities have confirmed new details in an unfolding investigation surrounding a recent shooting that left one man hospitalized on Thursday. According to official statements from law enforcement, a suspect is now in custody and is believed to have possible connections to another shooting incident that occurred just one day earlier, on Wednesday evening.

    The Thursday shooting unfolded in a quiet neighborhood that was shaken by the sudden eruption of gunfire. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots just before emergency responders arrived on the scene. The victim, an adult male whose identity has not yet been released, was found with gunshot wounds and was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. His condition remains unknown at this time, though sources close to the investigation say he was alert when first responders reached him.

    Police worked swiftly to track down the alleged shooter, thanks in part to eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, and rapid cooperation from members of the community. Within hours, officers had apprehended a suspect believed to be involved in the shooting. Authorities have since revealed that the individual in custody may also be responsible for a separate shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday evening, though they have not released specific details about that event.

    Investigators are actively working to determine whether the two shootings are linked by motive, location, or relationship between the victims. They have not ruled out the possibility of an ongoing dispute or targeted violence, and they are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

    At a press briefing, the department’s spokesperson noted, “We are piecing together evidence that strongly suggests this suspect had involvement in both shootings. We are committed to pursuing a thorough investigation and ensuring justice is served for all those affected.”

    This development has sent waves of concern throughout the community, which is now grappling with the realization that two acts of gun violence occurred within such a short timeframe. Local leaders and residents have expressed both shock and gratitude—shock at the incidents themselves, and gratitude that the suspect is no longer at large.

    One nearby resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said, “It’s terrifying to hear gunshots so close to home, and even worse to think it happened twice in two days. I’m just thankful police acted quickly and caught the person responsible.”

    As police continue to interview witnesses, analyze ballistic evidence, and search for surveillance footage, the community is being asked to remain vigilant. The authorities have not yet confirmed if any additional suspects are being sought, nor have they revealed any potential motives behind the shootings.

    The names of the victim and suspect have not been released pending notification of family members and further investigation. No charges have been officially filed as of yet, though authorities say they expect to release more information in the coming days.

  • The tragic death of 15-year-old Jaymir Deshea Hill has left the Wyoming, Ohio, community in mourning. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025

    The tragic death of 15-year-old Jaymir Deshea Hill has left the Wyoming, Ohio, community in mourning. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025

    The tragic death of 15-year-old Jaymir Deshea Hill has left the Wyoming, Ohio, community in mourning. On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, Jaymir was fatally shot at the intersection of Burns and Washington Avenues. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to reports of shots fired around 3:49 p.m. Upon arrival, they found Jaymir with a gunshot wound to his left shoulder. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, he succumbed to his injuries .

    Jaymir was a ninth-grade student at Northwest Local School District, where he was remembered as a “great kid” who loved playing games and was well-mannered. The district expressed deep sadness over his death and is working to provide support to students, staff, and the family during this difficult time .

    The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and Wyoming Police Department are investigating the incident. Witnesses reported that multiple suspects fled the scene on foot after the shooting. Authorities have not released further details about the suspects or any arrests made. The public is urged to come forward with any information to aid in the investigation

    This senseless act of violence has shaken the Wyoming community, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and ensure the safety of all residents. As investigations continue, the community stands united in grief and support for Jaymir’s family.

  • On the early morning of Wednesday, June 18, at approximately 1:04 a.m., Columbus Police officers responded swiftly to a distressing call reporting a shooting in the 1400 block of Oakland Park Avenue

    On the early morning of Wednesday, June 18, at approximately 1:04 a.m., Columbus Police officers responded swiftly to a distressing call reporting a shooting in the 1400 block of Oakland Park Avenue

    On the early morning of Wednesday, June 18, at approximately 1:04 a.m., Columbus Police officers responded swiftly to a distressing call reporting a shooting in the 1400 block of Oakland Park Avenue. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered a critical situation unfolding—a 28-year-old man, identified as Jayvon Gore, was found suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency personnel quickly intervened, and Mr. Gore was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical staff, he was tragically pronounced deceased at 1:14 a.m., just minutes after being brought in.

    The initial investigation into the incident revealed a chaotic and violent exchange of gunfire involving multiple individuals in the parking lot of an after-hours establishment situated in that area. Witnesses and evidence pointed to a confrontation where several people opened fire, creating a dangerous and volatile environment late into the night. It was during this deadly exchange that Mr. Gore sustained fatal injuries.

    Adding to the gravity of the situation, the nearby Columbus Division of Fire Station 16, located in close proximity to the shooting site, was also struck by stray bullets during the incident. Thankfully, no firefighters or personnel inside the fire station were injured, avoiding a potentially even greater tragedy.

    Law enforcement officers acted promptly to investigate the shooting. Following an extensive inquiry and gathering of evidence, detectives identified Toreal Crawford, 33, as the suspect responsible for causing Mr. Gore’s death. The Columbus Police Department moved quickly to seek justice for the victim, filing a warrant charging Crawford with murder.

    After weeks of surveillance and careful planning, Columbus Police SWAT Officers successfully located and apprehended Crawford on Tuesday, July 8. The arrest marked a significant step toward holding those responsible accountable and underscored the dedication of local law enforcement in addressing violent crime within the community.

    This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers associated with violent confrontations and the devastating impact such acts have on families, friends, and the broader community. The Columbus Police Department continues to work diligently to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to prevent similar events from occurring in the future. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist authorities in further investigations. The loss of Jayvon Gore is deeply felt, and efforts are ongoing to ensure justice is served.