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BREAKING OVERNIGHT: Man Found Dead Following Shooting in North St. Louis

St. Louis, MO — July 18, 2025 — A tragic and violent episode unfolded overnight in North St. Louis, leaving a community rattled and authorities scrambling for answers. Just after midnight, emergency dispatchers received a 911 call reporting gunfire in the 5200 block of Wabada Avenue, a quiet residential stretch tucked within the Kingsway West neighborhood.

Responding officers from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department arrived on the scene minutes later to find a man lying unresponsive on the sidewalk near the curb. Despite rapid life-saving efforts by first responders and paramedics, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, is believed to be a man in his late 20s to early 30s. According to early reports, he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. Investigators were seen canvassing the area, collecting shell casings, photographing the scene, and speaking with shaken residents who had been startled awake by the sound of gunfire.

“There were five or six loud pops — I thought it was fireworks at first,” said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “But then I looked outside and saw the flashing lights and knew something bad had happened.”

No suspects have been arrested as of early Friday morning, and the motive remains unclear. Detectives with the department’s Homicide Division have taken over the investigation and are working to determine whether the shooting was targeted or a random act of violence.

Authorities have also not confirmed whether any security footage from nearby homes or businesses captured the incident. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

“We need the community’s help to bring justice to this man’s family,” a police spokesperson stated at a press briefing around 3:00 a.m. “We know someone saw or heard something. Even the smallest tip can help us piece together what happened.”

This marks yet another heartbreaking incident in a city that has struggled with persistent gun violence. As of mid-July, St. Louis has seen a troubling rise in homicides, prompting renewed calls for both legislative action and community-based intervention programs.

Local activist and anti-violence advocate Carla Simmons expressed frustration over the ongoing crisis: “We’re tired of waking up to this. Tired of seeing young men lose their lives in our streets. This isn’t just a policing issue — this is about resources, opportunity, and people caring for one another.”

A makeshift memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes began to form on the sidewalk by sunrise. Neighbors, friends, and family members gathered quietly, many wiping away tears and consoling one another. Several remained on the scene through the morning, hoping to make sense of the loss and offer support to the grieving family.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department is asking anyone with knowledge of the incident to call their Homicide Division directly or provide anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS.

This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available.

We Finally Said Our Goodbyes – A Tribute to Roy, My Father-in-Law

We finally said our goodbyes, but it still doesn’t feel real. Rest in peace, Roy — my father-in-law, my friend, and a man whose presence left an everlasting mark on our lives. Your passing has left a silence that echoes loudly in our hearts, yet within that silence, your memory speaks in the most tender ways — through laughter we shared, lessons you taught, and the way you made us feel so deeply cared for.

From the very first day we met, you made me feel right at home. There was no judgment, no pretense — just your steady, kind presence, welcoming me into the family as though I had always been a part of it. That gesture alone, simple as it may have seemed, meant more than words could ever express. You didn’t have to open your heart to me, but you did — and from that moment forward, I knew I was fortunate to know you, to learn from you, and to call you family.

You weren’t just a father-in-law. You were a cornerstone. A guiding light. A source of quiet strength and wisdom. Whether it was a story from your younger years, your subtle sense of humor, or the gentle advice you shared when times got tough, you always knew how to make things better. You had that rare gift — the ability to listen without judgment and speak without ego. You made people feel safe. Loved. Valued.

Your memory will live on — not just in the photographs, the stories, or the keepsakes left behind — but in the way we carry ourselves, in the love we show one another, and in the traditions that will continue because of the example you set. You taught us to love fully, to work hard, to remain humble, and to show up for each other no matter what. These values weren’t things you preached; they were simply how you lived.

Deep in our hearts, you’ll always stay — loved and missed every single day. There’s not a meal, a gathering, or a quiet Sunday that won’t feel your absence, yet also be filled with your spirit. We’ll hear your voice in our minds when we need guidance, feel your encouragement when we face life’s trials, and smile when we recall those moments of shared joy — the warm greetings, the belly laughs, the hugs that lingered just a little longer.

You were the kind of man people aspire to be — not because you were perfect, but because you were real. You loved fiercely, worked tirelessly, and gave of yourself generously. You had a way of making those around you feel seen and appreciated, and that’s a rare and beautiful thing.

Roy, thank you for everything — for welcoming me with open arms, for loving your family with all your heart, and for being a steady presence in a world that often feels uncertain. Saying goodbye hurts more than words can say, but we find comfort in knowing your love still surrounds us. It lives in your children, your grandchildren, and in those of us lucky enough to be part of your world.

We’ll carry you with us, always. Your seat may be empty, but your spirit fills the room. Until we meet again, rest easy, Roy.

Forever in our hearts. 💔🕊️

In Loving Memory of Sweet Baby Easton

It is with the heaviest and most broken heart imaginable that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved baby boy, Easton. In the early hours of this morning, at 5:10 AM, our precious son left this world far too soon. Though his time here was brief, the love he brought into our lives was infinite and everlasting.

Easton’s life, though measured in days rather than years, was full of meaning. He was a light, a miracle, a pure soul who graced us with his presence and reminded us of the beauty and fragility of life. His tiny hands held our hearts in the most powerful way. In the few days we had with him, he changed us. He made us parents. He made us softer, stronger, and forever more compassionate.

There are no words to fully describe the pain and sorrow we feel. The dreams we had for him, the memories we were looking forward to making, the future we had imagined—were all gone in an instant. And yet, even in this sorrow, we are grateful for the time we had. Grateful for every little sigh, every cuddle, every heartbeat. Those memories will live in our hearts, etched in love.

To know Easton, even for a moment, was to know unconditional love. He was deeply cherished, endlessly wanted, and profoundly adored by all who knew of him. He was our miracle, our angel, and now he watches over us from above.

Our family is shattered and trying to navigate through this immense grief, and we humbly ask for your understanding and patience during this time of mourning. If you’re reading this, we ask one thing of you—hold your loved ones tighter today. Life is so fragile, and love is the only thing that truly endures.

Easton, our sweet boy, you were loved more than words could ever express. You will always be our baby, our light, our reason. You will never be forgotten. Your name will be spoken, your story shared, and your spirit carried in everything we do. Rest in peace, our beautiful angel. You were too perfect for this world.

Forever in our hearts,
Mommy and Daddy 💙🕊️
“Some people only dream of angels. We held one in our arms.”

Polk County, FL — Tragic Early Morning Crash Involving Car and Dump Truck Results in Fire and Fatalities

At approximately 5:45 a.m. on Friday, July 18th, 2025, emergency crews from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), fire rescue units, and Florida Highway Patrol were dispatched to the intersection of County Road 557 and Polk City Road, a well-traveled corridor located between Lake Alfred and Interstate 4. The call was in response to a devastating two-vehicle collision that would quickly escalate into a fiery and tragic scene.

According to initial reports, a small passenger vehicle and a large commercial dump truck collided under circumstances that are still under active investigation. The impact of the crash was so intense that it caused one of the vehicles to burst into flames shortly after the collision occurred. Witnesses described a harrowing scene, with thick black smoke billowing into the early morning sky and flames engulfing the wreckage.

Emergency personnel arrived within minutes and immediately began fire suppression efforts while also attempting to rescue the occupants involved. Tragically, despite their swift response, authorities confirmed that at least one person was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact number of individuals involved, including potential injuries and additional fatalities, has not yet been officially released as the investigation remains ongoing.

PCSO’s Traffic Homicide Unit, along with the Florida Department of Transportation and other traffic safety agencies, have cordoned off the area and launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Early observations suggest that the severity of the impact and the resulting fire may have been due in part to high speeds or a possible mechanical failure, but no official conclusions have been drawn at this time.

Both County Road 557 and Polk City Road were closed for several hours during the investigation and cleanup, causing significant traffic delays in the surrounding areas. Commuters were asked to find alternative routes as law enforcement worked tirelessly to document the scene and remove debris.

Sheriff Grady Judd released a brief statement:

“This was a heartbreaking and violent crash that occurred during the early hours of the day. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those involved. We urge all drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially during pre-dawn hours when visibility and road conditions can change quickly.”

Residents in the Lake Alfred and Polk City communities have expressed their sorrow and concern over the frequency of crashes in the area, noting that the intersection where the accident occurred has seen several severe incidents in recent years. Local leaders are now calling for increased safety measures, such as better signage, lighting improvements, or even traffic control infrastructure, to help prevent future tragedies.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to notify the next of kin of the deceased, and autopsies are expected to be conducted in the coming days. Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident is encouraged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

This developing story is a painful reminder of how quickly life can change and how critical it is to prioritize roadway safety. The community mourns with the families impacted by this senseless loss and awaits further updates from officials in the coming hours.

In Loving Memory of Lucas Trainor

It is with shattered hearts and deep sorrow that the family of Lucas Trainor announces his unexpected and tragic passing. Lucas was a cherished son, beloved brother, adored grandson, loyal nephew, and fun-loving cousin. His sudden departure has left a void that words can scarcely begin to describe, and the pain of his absence is felt deeply by all who knew and loved him.

Lucas’s life, though heartbreakingly brief, was filled with boundless love, laughter, and moments that will be remembered forever. He had a natural light within him—a quiet strength and a gentle soul that touched the lives of many. Whether he was sharing a laugh with friends, lending a helping hand, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Lucas brought warmth, authenticity, and kindness wherever he went.

He had a special way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Lucas’s generous spirit, infectious smile, and compassionate heart made him the kind of person you could always count on. His love for his family was immeasurable. As a son, he brought joy and pride into his parents’ lives every single day. As a brother, he was both protector and friend. As a grandson, nephew, and cousin, he was treasured beyond measure.

The family of Lucas Trainor would like to express their deepest and most sincere gratitude to everyone who has offered support during this incredibly painful time. Your prayers, kind messages, visits, and shared memories have been a source of comfort and strength. Whether through a meal dropped at the door, a warm embrace, or heartfelt words, every gesture has helped carry the family through the darkest of days.

To neighbors who stood in solidarity, to friends who shared stories that brought both tears and smiles, and to extended family who offered unyielding love—we thank you. Your compassion and support have shown the power of community and reminded us that we are not alone in our grief. The kindness of colleagues, classmates, church members, and old friends has been overwhelming, and each message of condolence has touched the hearts of Lucas’s loved ones.

In this time of unimaginable loss, the family holds tightly to the beautiful memories they made with Lucas—his laughter, his passions, his dreams, and the love he gave so freely. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched, the hearts he warmed, and the legacy of love he leaves behind.

As the days ahead unfold with moments of grief and remembrance, the family asks for continued prayers and support. They also ask that, in honor of Lucas, we all strive to be a little kinder, more present, and more loving—because that’s how Lucas lived his life.

Rest in eternal peace, dear Lucas. You are forever loved, endlessly missed, and never forgotten.

With heartfelt thanks,
The family of Lucas Trainor
“Those we love never truly leave us. There are things that death cannot touch.”