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  • BREAKING: Pine Bluff Police Actively Searching for Homicide Suspect Dicoreon Ford Following Fatal Shooting of 14-Year-Old Juvenile

    BREAKING: Pine Bluff Police Actively Searching for Homicide Suspect Dicoreon Ford Following Fatal Shooting of 14-Year-Old Juvenile

    BREAKING: Pine Bluff Police Actively Searching for Homicide Suspect Dicoreon Ford Following Fatal Shooting of 14-Year-Old Juvenile

    PINE BLUFF, AR — A tragic act of violence has shaken the community of Pine Bluff as police have launched an active manhunt for 18-year-old Dicoreon Ford, the suspect wanted in connection with a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a young teenager.

    The Pine Bluff Police Department confirmed that on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at approximately 5:55 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence located at 2501 South Maple Street after receiving multiple reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 14-year-old juvenile victim lying unresponsive outside the home. The teen had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts to provide emergency aid.

    This heartbreaking incident has deeply unsettled the neighborhood, as residents mourn the senseless loss of such a young life. The identity of the victim has not been released to the public at this time out of respect for the family and to protect the integrity of the investigation.

    Following a swift and intensive preliminary investigation, Dicoreon Ford was identified as the primary suspect in the shooting. Authorities have since obtained an arrest warrant for Capital Murder, and Ford is now the subject of an urgent, citywide search.

    🔴 Suspect Description:

    • Name: Dicoreon Ford

    • Race/Sex: Black Male

    • Age: 18

    • Height: 6’0”

    • Weight: 140 lbs

    Investigators believe that Ford may still be within the local area, but they are also working closely with regional law enforcement in the event that he has fled Pine Bluff. He is considered armed and dangerous, and the public is strongly advised not to approach him under any circumstances.

    The motive behind the deadly shooting remains unclear, and detectives are actively piecing together the sequence of events that led to the tragic confrontation. Police have not yet confirmed whether the victim and suspect knew each other or what may have triggered the violence.

    Community Reaction:

    The news of a 14-year-old’s death has sent waves of grief and fear through the Pine Bluff community. Community leaders, clergy, and residents have called for unity, justice, and peace in the wake of the killing. Candlelight vigils are already being planned in honor of the young victim whose life was cut tragically short.

    “This is not just a number. This is someone’s child, someone’s friend, someone’s future,” said one local resident. “We are devastated and angry. Our young people deserve better than this.”

    Police Appeal:

    Authorities are urging anyone with information about Dicoreon Ford’s whereabouts to come forward immediately. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and a reward may be available for credible information leading to his arrest.

    If you see Ford or know where he may be hiding, please contact:

    • Pine Bluff Police Department: (870) 730-2090

    • Dispatch (Non-Emergency): (870) 541-5300

    • Crime Stoppers Tip Line: (870) 543-5100

    This is an ongoing investigation. The Pine Bluff Police Department continues to dedicate all available resources to apprehend the suspect and bring justice to the grieving family. Updates will be shared with the public as new information becomes available.

    Rest in peace to the young soul taken far too soon. May his memory be a guiding force for peace, accountability, and change in our community.

  • With great sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Tiffany V. Cardenas, who left this world far too soon on July 20, 2025, at the tender age of 24

    With great sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Tiffany V. Cardenas, who left this world far too soon on July 20, 2025, at the tender age of 24

    With great sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Tiffany V. Cardenas, who left this world far too soon on July 20, 2025, at the tender age of 24. Tiffany was a beacon of light to all who knew her—a vibrant young woman whose laughter, compassion, and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

    Born in Longwood, Florida, Tiffany grew up surrounded by the love of her close-knit family and the warmth of a supportive community. From a young age, she exhibited a deep sensitivity to the needs of others and a rare gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it was a kind word, a helping hand, or simply her infectious smile, Tiffany had a way of lifting spirits and brightening even the darkest days.

    She was known for her boundless energy, her creative soul, and a heart full of love. Tiffany pursued her passions with dedication and grace. A graduate of Lyman High School, she went on to study psychology and art therapy, driven by her dream of helping others heal. Friends often described her as a “free spirit with an old soul,” wise beyond her years but never too serious to dance in the rain or sing out loud in the car with her favorite playlist.

    Tiffany’s presence was magnetic. She was the life of every gathering, the shoulder to cry on, and the friend who never hesitated to stand by your side. She loved deeply and gave selflessly—whether it was volunteering with local youth programs, caring for stray animals, or surprising loved ones with handwritten notes just to remind them they mattered.

    Her family meant everything to her. Tiffany was a devoted daughter, a loving sister, a cherished granddaughter, and a proud aunt. She brought joy to family gatherings with her warm heart and playful humor, and her bond with her younger cousins and nieces was unmatched. She was their biggest cheerleader and fiercest protector.

    Though her life was cut tragically short, Tiffany’s legacy of kindness, resilience, and love will live on. The many lives she touched are a testament to the incredible young woman she was—one whose light cannot be extinguished by death. Her memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know her.

    Tiffany is survived by her loving parents, Carlos and Veronica Cardenas; her siblings Anthony, Mia, and Luis Cardenas; her grandparents, Maria and Victor Ramos, and Estella Cardenas; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

    A celebration of Tiffany’s life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Northland Church in Longwood, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM and a service to follow at 11:30 AM. Attendees are encouraged to wear bright colors in honor of Tiffany’s vibrant personality and zest for life.

    In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or a local animal rescue organization—two causes close to Tiffany’s heart.

    Though we mourn her loss with aching hearts, we also celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. Rest in peace, sweet Tiffany. You were deeply loved, and you will be profoundly missed. Your light lives on in all of us.

  • It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Carlos Posada, a beloved son, brother, friend, and community member, who lost his life far too soon on July 20, 2025

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Carlos Posada, a beloved son, brother, friend, and community member, who lost his life far too soon on July 20, 2025

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of Carlos Posada, a beloved son, brother, friend, and community member, who lost his life far too soon on July 20, 2025, at the young age of 29. Carlos was fatally struck in a hit-and-run incident in his hometown of Sylmar, California, a heartbreaking event that has shaken the local community and reignited the urgent conversation around pedestrian safety in Los Angeles.

    Carlos was a man of warmth, humility, and quiet strength—known for his infectious smile, thoughtful demeanor, and deep love for his family and friends. He grew up in Sylmar, attending local schools, playing youth soccer at the park, and spending his weekends helping his mother in the garden or working alongside his father on small car repair projects. His roots ran deep in the San Fernando Valley, and he was proud of where he came from.

    Professionally, Carlos was a hardworking and dedicated technician who always showed up early and left late, never hesitating to lend a hand or mentor younger colleagues. Outside of work, he had a passion for music, lowrider cars, and cooking with his nieces and nephews—he was the one you could count on to bring homemade tacos to the family gatherings and light up the barbecue at summer cookouts. He cherished time with his loved ones, and his bond with his siblings and close circle of friends was something truly special.

    Carlos’ tragic death has left an unimaginable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. On what seemed to be a regular evening, Carlos was walking home when a vehicle struck him and fled the scene. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, Carlos succumbed to his injuries. The driver has not yet been identified, and the incident has left his family in anguish, demanding justice and accountability.

    This heartbreaking event underscores a growing and deeply concerning trend: the rising number of hit-and-run fatalities in Los Angeles. Sylmar residents, along with advocates for safer streets, have long called for improved infrastructure, better lighting, more pedestrian crossings, and stronger enforcement of traffic laws. Carlos’ passing is not just a personal tragedy—it is a community wake-up call. His family is urging city officials to take immediate action to ensure that what happened to Carlos does not happen to someone else.

    Carlos is survived by his heartbroken parents, Maria and Enrique Posada, his two younger sisters Lupita and Marisol, and his older brother Javier, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. They remember him as their protector, their jokester, and their peacemaker—the one who always reminded everyone to slow down, breathe, and cherish each other.

    A candlelight vigil in Carlos’ honor will be held at El Cariso Park this Friday evening, where the community will gather to remember his life and call for safer streets in his name. His family has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support efforts to raise awareness for pedestrian safety.

    Though Carlos’ life was cut tragically short, his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He deserved so much more—more time, more laughter, more dreams fulfilled. In honoring his life, we must also advocate for change so that no other family has to suffer this kind of preventable loss.

    Rest in peace, Carlos Posada. You are deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten. 💔🕊️

  • It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the Benton, Arkansas community mourns the passing of Casey Ruple, who departed this world on July 21, 2025.

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the Benton, Arkansas community mourns the passing of Casey Ruple, who departed this world on July 21, 2025.

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the Benton, Arkansas community mourns the passing of Casey Ruple, who departed this world on July 21, 2025. At just 38 years old, Casey left behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unshakable kindness that will remain etched in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to know him.

    Born and raised in Benton, Casey was a beloved son, sibling, friend, and community member. From a young age, he exhibited a unique zest for life—an energy that radiated through his smile, his words, and his every action. Whether he was volunteering at a local event, helping a neighbor in need, or cracking a well-timed joke that lightened the room, Casey had a rare gift: the ability to make others feel seen, heard, and valued.

    Those closest to him describe Casey as a light in dark times, a rock during storms, and a burst of sunshine on even the grayest days. He carried himself with a mix of confidence and humility, never seeking the spotlight but often finding it because of his genuine nature and magnetic personality. His laughter was contagious, his hugs comforting, and his words always thoughtful.

    Professionally, Casey was deeply respected and admired by colleagues. His work ethic was matched only by his enthusiasm and his commitment to lifting others up. Whether in the breakroom or the boardroom, he brought people together and fostered a spirit of unity and purpose. To his coworkers, he wasn’t just a team member—he was family.

    Outside of work, Casey was known for his love of the outdoors, his passion for music, and his devotion to friends and family. He cherished every moment spent camping, fishing, or simply enjoying a sunset with those he loved. He found beauty in the simple things and reminded others to slow down and appreciate the little joys in life.

    Perhaps Casey’s most remarkable quality was his heart. He was the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone in need, never expecting anything in return. He gave freely of his time, his energy, and his love. His compassion knew no bounds, and his empathy touched countless lives.

    As news of his passing spreads through the community, tributes pour in from all directions—from lifelong friends and family members to casual acquaintances who only met him once but remembered the way he made them feel. His impact was far-reaching, and his absence leaves a void that words can scarcely express.

    In this time of mourning, let us also take time to celebrate the incredible life Casey lived. He was a beacon of positivity in an often troubled world. Though his time here was far too short, his influence will live on through the memories, stories, and love he leaves behind.

    Casey is survived by his loving family, including his parents, siblings, and extended relatives, all of whom were proud of the person he was and the joy he brought into their lives. He will also be deeply missed by a wide circle of friends and colleagues who will continue to honor his memory by living with the same warmth, humor, and heart that defined Casey’s every day.

    A memorial service celebrating Casey Ruple’s life will be held later this week in Benton, where friends, family, and community members will gather to share stories, tears, and laughter in his honor.

    Rest in peace, Casey. You will forever be remembered, deeply loved, and sorely missed.

  • Please See Savannah Blair Smith. There have been more than a dozen missing flyers for her over the years and last year, I had an opportunity to speak to her about her situation. Savannah was enrolled with the Cherokee Nation. At the time of her death, she was just 16.

    Please See Savannah Blair Smith. There have been more than a dozen missing flyers for her over the years and last year, I had an opportunity to speak to her about her situation. Savannah was enrolled with the Cherokee Nation. At the time of her death, she was just 16.

    Please See Savannah Blair Smith. There have been more than a dozen missing flyers for her over the years and last year, I had an opportunity to speak to her about her situation. Savannah was enrolled with the Cherokee Nation. At the time of her death, she was just 16.
    Savannah had messaged me when she saw one of her flyers last year. I asked her why she kept going missing and she explained to me that her father killed her mother when she was 10 and she entered into the foster system. She didn’t think anyone cared.
    Of course I reached out to one of our amazing community angels, who is also an MMIP investigator. Christa was able to get Savannah the help she needed.
    However, Savannah’s story stuck with me. She had been shuffled all across Oklahoma: Kiefer, Norman, Enid, Tulsa and other smaller communities. She never felt comfortable and was always on the move- looking for peace and love.
    When I learned last week that she was missing again, my heart sank. She had not been entered into the missing children database or even NamUs for that matter. Hours later, I learned that her remains were discovered near Tulsa. I fought back anger and tears. This precious young lady never stood a chance. At the time of her death she had been missing for just over 3 weeks. Now 16, I pray Savannah has found the love and peace she was always searching for and could not find in Oklahoma.
    I came across her obituary this morning. I learned more about the Savannah I didn’t know:
    “ She enjoyed curling up with a good book, especially fantasy books. She had a soft spot in her heart for her feline friends, especially “Salem”, her constant friend and companion. There was nothing she loved more than time spent with her family or friends at the river, floating and a picnic with Grandma and her siblings. Life was not always kind and sometimes, the road grew rough. Yet true to form, Savannah had a great impact on many, many people, and never stopped trying for a better day and a brighter future. Her mother passed from this life and Savannah moved in with her Grandmother. Savannah had a beautiful smile, a sweet disposition, a loving heart and often times, a broken spirit. The constant in her life was her family and friends that held her up, and supported her when and where they could.”
    Savannah tried hard to make the world a better place and to find peace.
    A Service of Remembrance will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025 at 2:00pm at Reed-Culver Chapel. A Rosary will be recited for Savannah on Thursday, July 24, 2025 at Reed-Culver Funeral Home. She will be laid to rest at a later date. If you can attend please do. I know many in our community cared about Savannah and her wellbeing.
    Going forward, there is a group of community advocates that will be taking up the fight. Savannah did not deserve to be ignored or treated as poorly as she was by DHS. We must do more for our foster children!
  • It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Monico Caneda, who departed this world on July 19th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, warmth, and a spirit that touched everyone he encountered.

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Monico Caneda, who departed this world on July 19th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, warmth, and a spirit that touched everyone he encountered.

    It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Monico Caneda, who departed this world on July 19th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, warmth, and a spirit that touched everyone he encountered.

    Monico was so much more than a name—he was a bright light in the lives of his family, a beacon of hope to his friends, and a steady source of support to all who had the honor of knowing him. Known for his infectious smile and compassionate heart, Monico radiated positivity and embraced life with a sense of gratitude and deep sincerity. Whether it was a conversation over coffee, a spontaneous laugh shared in a quiet moment, or a hand extended in kindness, Monico made people feel seen, valued, and truly loved.

    A devoted father, Monico’s greatest pride and joy in life were his sons. He poured his heart into fatherhood with unwavering dedication, constantly seeking to instill in them the values of respect, resilience, and unconditional love. His guidance and steady presence in their lives will forever be a source of strength, and his memory will live on in the choices they make and the lives they lead.

    Monico was the beloved son of Martina Caneda, a woman whose grace and wisdom shaped the man he became. Their bond was unshakable—a testament to years of shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and unbreakable love. He also shared a close relationship with his sister Jessica, with whom he built countless memories filled with joy, sibling banter, and heartfelt support. The Caneda family, strong in their faith and love, has found solace in one another as they navigate the painful path of grief.

    To his many friends, Monico was the heart of any gathering. He had a rare gift for making others feel instantly welcome, never hesitating to offer help or a listening ear. Whether sharing a meal, offering advice, or simply being present, Monico exemplified the beauty of human connection. His ability to bring people together was one of his most treasured qualities, and his absence will be deeply felt across many communities.

    In times of hardship, Monico remained grounded in hope. He carried his burdens quietly but never alone, always striving to be the person others could rely on. His life was a testament to resilience, humility, and unwavering kindness, and his passing leaves a void that words can hardly describe.

    As we remember Monico Caneda, we also celebrate the life he lived—a life full of purpose, laughter, and genuine love. Though our hearts are broken, we are also filled with gratitude for the time we shared with him. The stories, the laughter, the tears, the lessons—each of these will remain etched in our memories forever.

    A memorial service will be held in the coming days to honor and celebrate Monico’s life. Details will be shared with friends and family as arrangements are finalized.

    To all who knew him: Let us carry forward his legacy by loving fiercely, giving generously, and living with the joy and humility that Monico so effortlessly embodied.

    Rest peacefully, Monico. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten.

  • With hearts weighed down by sorrow, the community of Nevis, Minnesota, grieves the untimely loss of Aiden Thompson, a vibrant and beloved 21-year-old

    With hearts weighed down by sorrow, the community of Nevis, Minnesota, grieves the untimely loss of Aiden Thompson, a vibrant and beloved 21-year-old

    With hearts weighed down by sorrow, the community of Nevis, Minnesota, grieves the untimely loss of Aiden Thompson, a vibrant and beloved 21-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in the early hours of July 19th due to an incident at Lake Belle Taine. This devastating news has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling in disbelief, as they come to terms with the passing of someone who brought light and laughter to all who knew him.

    Born and raised in Nevis, Aiden was a true son of the north woods—a young man with an enduring passion for nature, adventure, and community. Whether it was fishing off the dock, paddling across the glassy surface of the lake at dawn, or hiking through the trails around Hubbard County, Aiden found deep joy in the simplicity and serenity of the outdoors. He often said that Lake Belle Taine felt like home, a place where he could breathe freely and connect with the beauty of the world around him. It is a cruel twist of fate that the very place he loved so deeply would become the site of his final moments.

    Those who knew Aiden remember him for his kindness, humble spirit, and infectious smile that made others feel instantly at ease. He had a heart for helping, always the first to offer a hand when someone was in need—whether it was fixing a neighbor’s boat engine, helping a friend move, or volunteering for local clean-up days. His generosity of spirit touched many, and his absence will leave a profound void in the tight-knit town of Nevis.

    Aiden graduated from Nevis High School in 2022, where he was known for his quiet leadership, friendly nature, and a natural curiosity that made him a favorite among peers and teachers alike. He was an avid athlete who played baseball and ran track, though he was never one to boast. His teammates recall his encouragement on and off the field and his unwavering support no matter the outcome of a game.

    In recent years, Aiden had been pursuing a career in forestry and conservation—fields that perfectly mirrored his values and passions. He often spoke of wanting to protect the very forests and lakes that had given him so much peace throughout his life. He dreamed of one day becoming a park ranger, combining his love for the outdoors with his desire to educate and inspire future generations.

    The tragedy at Lake Belle Taine is still under investigation, and while many questions remain, what is clear is the deep sense of loss that now blankets the community. A candlelight vigil is being planned by friends and neighbors near the lake in the coming days, where stories will be shared, tears will be shed, and Aiden’s memory will be honored in the very place he held so dear.

    Aiden is survived by his loving parents, Daniel and Melissa Thompson, his younger sister Kaylee, his grandparents Robert and Linda Peterson, and a large extended family who adored him deeply. He also leaves behind countless friends, former classmates, coworkers, and community members who will forever cherish the moments they shared with him.

    As Nevis mourns, it also remembers. It remembers a young man who loved freely, gave generously, and lived each day with quiet purpose and compassion. Aiden Thompson’s life, though short, was profoundly meaningful. His legacy will live on in the rustling of the pine trees, the gentle waves on the lake, and the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

    Rest peacefully, Aiden. You will never be forgotten.

  • BREAKING: Attorney Speaks Out After Investigators Recommend Child Abuse Charge Against Brady Kiser Following Death of 3-Year-Old Son

    BREAKING: Attorney Speaks Out After Investigators Recommend Child Abuse Charge Against Brady Kiser Following Death of 3-Year-Old Son

    BREAKING: Attorney Speaks Out After Investigators Recommend Child Abuse Charge Against Brady Kiser Following Death of 3-Year-Old Son

    In a case that has gripped the public with sorrow and outrage, a crucial development has emerged in the tragic death of the 3-year-old son of influencer Emilie Kiser and her husband, Brady Kiser. After weeks of investigation, law enforcement officials have recommended that Brady Kiser be charged with a Class 4 felony — child abuse — in connection with the circumstances surrounding the untimely death of the young child. Now, the attorney who holds the power to decide whether to formally press charges has broken her silence, offering a rare public statement amid a storm of public speculation and grief.

    A Tragic Loss That Shocked a Community

    The Kisers’ son tragically passed away earlier this summer under circumstances that were initially described as “accidental but deeply concerning.” While official details have been slow to emerge, leaked documents and insider reports have hinted at possible negligence or recklessness in the child’s care. Social media quickly erupted with support for Emilie Kiser, a popular online figure known for her candid motherhood content, as well as with intense scrutiny toward Brady, her husband.

    The couple had portrayed an image of a tight-knit, joyful family. The death of their son not only shattered that perception but also left thousands of followers in shock, demanding answers as to how such a tragedy could occur. Investigators have since been diligently working to piece together what happened in the hours and days leading up to the child’s death.

    Felony Charge Recommendation

    After extensive interviews, forensic analysis, and reviews of the family’s home environment, investigators submitted a formal recommendation for prosecution, advising the district attorney to pursue a Class 4 felony charge of child abuse against Brady Kiser.

    A Class 4 felony in most jurisdictions is a serious offense that can result in up to 10 years in prison, along with substantial fines and long-term consequences including loss of custodial rights and a permanent criminal record. The recommendation does not automatically result in charges — the final decision rests with the office of the District Attorney, which must evaluate the strength of the evidence, the context of the case, and whether it meets the legal threshold for prosecution.

    The Attorney’s Statement

    Today, the attorney tasked with deciding Brady Kiser’s fate released a formal statement addressing the recommendation and offering transparency in what has become an emotionally charged, high-profile case. The district attorney, Monica Reyes, issued the following:

    “First and foremost, my office acknowledges the tremendous grief and trauma that the Kiser family is enduring. The death of a child is one of the most heartbreaking tragedies a family — and a community — can face. As we review the evidence submitted by investigators, we do so with solemn responsibility and a commitment to justice.

    While the recommendation for a Class 4 felony charge is being taken very seriously, it is imperative that due process is followed. We are currently conducting an independent review of all findings and will determine whether the threshold for criminal prosecution has been met.

    I ask the public to allow our legal system the space and time to function appropriately. The commentary and opinions circulating on social media, while understandable, should not interfere with the judicial process. Our goal is to ensure justice is pursued fairly, impartially, and thoroughly.

    We will announce our decision in the coming days. Until then, I ask for compassion and patience from the public, and most of all, respect for a grieving mother who is already living every parent’s worst nightmare.”

    Emilie Kiser’s Silence — And a Family Torn Apart

    Emilie Kiser has yet to make a formal public statement following the announcement of the recommended charge against her husband. Close friends of the influencer have noted that she is “devastated” and “barely able to function,” spending her days in seclusion and surrounded by only her closest family members.

    Sources close to the family suggest that Emilie was not aware of the full circumstances that led to the incident and is struggling to reconcile the man she loved with the reality of what investigators are alleging. There has been no confirmation as to whether the couple remains together, but multiple unconfirmed reports suggest that Emilie and Brady are currently living apart.

    The case has sparked widespread conversations around child safety, parental responsibility, and the unseen struggles that can exist behind even the most polished social media personas.

    What Happens Next

    As the DA’s office continues to deliberate, legal experts say the next steps could range from formal indictment to a grand jury review, or potentially a decision not to prosecute if the evidence is deemed insufficient. In the meantime, the Kiser family — and the public — wait anxiously.

    For now, one thing remains heartbreakingly clear: a young life has been lost, and no legal outcome will ever restore what was taken. The road ahead will be long, painful, and uncertain for all involved.

    As we await further developments, we ask that the public continue to show empathy, sensitivity, and support — especially to Emilie, who has not only lost her son but now faces the unimaginable pain of watching her family unravel in the most public and painful way possible.

  • It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lori Hensley, a beloved wife, devoted mother, treasured grandmother, and cherished member of the Fort Branch, Indiana, community

    It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lori Hensley, a beloved wife, devoted mother, treasured grandmother, and cherished member of the Fort Branch, Indiana, community

    It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lori Hensley, a beloved wife, devoted mother, treasured grandmother, and cherished member of the Fort Branch, Indiana, community. Lori passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 47.

    Born on January 13, 1978, in Evansville, Indiana, Lori was a beacon of warmth, compassion, and unwavering love. From a young age, she exuded kindness and a quiet strength that touched the lives of everyone around her. Raised with strong family values, she carried those deeply into adulthood, creating a home where love, laughter, and support were the foundation.

    Lori married the love of her life and built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, and community. As a wife, she was a true partner in every sense—steadfast, understanding, and supportive. As a mother, she was nurturing, selfless, and always present, guiding her children with patience and wisdom. Her children describe her as their rock, their biggest cheerleader, and the heart of their home. Her role as a grandmother brought her immeasurable joy—she embraced it with open arms and a full heart, creating cherished memories that will live on for generations.

    Beyond her roles within her family, Lori was deeply embedded in the Fort Branch community. She gave her time, her talents, and her heart to various local efforts, whether it was helping at school functions, organizing neighborhood events, or lending a helping hand to someone in need. She had a special way of making everyone feel seen and valued. Her presence lit up a room, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

    Lori had a deep appreciation for life’s simple moments—coffee on the porch at sunrise, family game nights, gardening, baking for her loved ones, and long, meaningful conversations. She had a way of making holidays magical, turning everyday tasks into lessons in love, and reminding everyone that even the smallest gestures could have the biggest impact.

    She is survived by her devoted husband, her beloved children and grandchildren, her loving parents, and a host of extended family members and close friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. Her legacy is one of grace, generosity, and unconditional love.

    Though Lori’s time on earth was far too short, her impact was profound and everlasting. She taught us how to love fiercely, give freely, and live with intention. While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life that left an indelible mark on the hearts of so many.

    May Lori Hensley rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire us to live with love, grace, and kindness every single day.

  • Tragedy Along the Guadalupe River: The Burgess Family Laid to Rest, Young Survivor Clings to Hope

    Tragedy Along the Guadalupe River: The Burgess Family Laid to Rest, Young Survivor Clings to Hope

    Tragedy Along the Guadalupe River: The Burgess Family Laid to Rest, Young Survivor Clings to Hope

    Liberty County, Texas – In the aftermath of a catastrophic flood that swept across parts of the Texas Hill Country, the hearts of an entire state are heavy with sorrow. This week, the community of Liberty County came together in tearful unity to lay to rest four beloved members of the Burgess family, whose lives were tragically cut short when sudden floodwaters overwhelmed their RV campsite along the Guadalupe River in Ingram, Texas.

    John and Julia Burgess, a devoted couple known for their warm smiles and boundless generosity, were enjoying a summer weekend getaway with their three children when disaster struck. Their 5-year-old son Jack—full of laughter, energy, and dreams of starting kindergarten this fall—and 21-month-old James, affectionately nicknamed “Jamie,” whose joyful babbles were the soundtrack of their days, were swept away by the fast-rising waters alongside their parents.

    In a miraculous and gut-wrenching twist of fate, the couple’s 8-year-old daughter, Jenna, survived. She is now the sole surviving member of the Burgess family.

    Jenna, who is currently being cared for by extended relatives, remains hospitalized and in stable condition. She reportedly clung to a tree until rescuers reached her. Officials have called her survival a miracle—though the road ahead will be unimaginably difficult.

    A Family That Embodied Love

    The Burgess family had recently celebrated James’ first steps and were planning a late summer birthday bash for Jack. Neighbors recall seeing them walking their children around the block with Julia’s gentle voice always guiding and John’s sturdy presence providing protection.

    John, 34, was a skilled mechanic and the first to offer a helping hand to anyone with car trouble. Julia, 32, had recently started teaching preschool in their church daycare. They were known not only as loving parents but as pillars of kindness in their small Liberty County community. They never sought attention, yet their quiet acts of generosity impacted countless lives.

    The family was staying at a popular riverside RV park when the region, already saturated from days of rain, experienced a sudden surge in water levels. Emergency crews were alerted, but the rapid nature of the flooding gave little time for evacuation. When the waters receded, the grim reality of the tragedy unfolded.

    A Community in Mourning

    The funeral, held at Grace Fellowship Church in Liberty County, was filled with mourners who wept openly and embraced tightly. Photographs of the family—John carrying both boys on his shoulders, Julia braiding Jenna’s hair, the whole family smiling by the water last summer—lined the entrance of the church. Flowers, teddy bears, and handwritten notes from Jenna’s classmates and teachers filled the sanctuary.

    “It’s beyond heartbreaking,” said Pastor Mark Ellison during the service. “This family represented all that is good and right in this world. Their loss has left a hole that can never truly be filled. But we must be strong—for Jenna. We must be her village now.”

    The community has rallied around Jenna, establishing support funds to aid her recovery and future needs, both emotional and material. Counselors, local clergy, and volunteers have formed a support network to help her process this trauma and begin the long journey of healing.

    A Plea for Prayers

    There are no easy answers in times like these. The pain is raw, and the grief feels infinite. Jenna, now surrounded by extended family, faces life without the presence of her parents, brothers, and the warmth of the home they built together.

    Please, keep this brave little girl in your thoughts and prayers. She is only 8 years old, but has already endured a lifetime of loss. Let us collectively wrap her in the strength and love she will need to face each new day.

    May the Burgess family rest in eternal peace, and may their story remind us all to cherish every moment, love more fiercely, and hold tight to those who matter most.

    #PrayersForJenna 💔 #BurgessFamily #GuadalupeRiverTragedy