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A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the peaceful community of Middleton, Wisconsin, following a devastating incident that claimed three lives on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. In what authorities have confirmed as a double homicide and subsequent suicide, David Pabst and Teri Pabst were senselessly taken from this world, leaving friends, neighbors, and loved ones in deep mourning and disbelief.

According to early reports from the Middleton Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check request at a quiet residential home in the early afternoon hours. What they discovered was a scene that has left the town reeling: the bodies of David Pabst, 62, and his wife, Teri Pabst, 60, both pronounced dead at the scene. The third individual, identified as a close family member who authorities believe was responsible for the killings, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have not yet released that individual’s name as the investigation continues and next of kin are notified.

David and Teri Pabst were longtime Middleton residents, known for their warmth, generosity, and deep involvement in the community. David, a retired engineer and lifelong Wisconsinite, was widely respected for his intelligence, calm demeanor, and willingness to lend a helping hand. Those who knew him describe a quiet strength and a deep love for his family. In retirement, David had found joy in gardening, fishing on Lake Mendota, and volunteering his time with local high school robotics programs, mentoring young minds and encouraging their pursuit of science and engineering.

Teri, a former elementary school teacher, was equally admired for her kindness, patience, and boundless compassion. For over two decades, she touched the lives of countless children through her work in the Middleton-Cross Plains School District. Even after her retirement, she remained active in local literacy programs and often spent her afternoons reading to children at the public library. Her smile was infectious, and her ability to make others feel seen and valued left a lasting impact on everyone she met.

The couple, married for over 35 years, were known to be inseparable. Friends recall their shared love for travel, local arts events, and the quiet joy they found in everyday life. Their relationship served as a beacon of love and partnership within their circle.

The tragedy has stunned not just their family and close friends, but the entire Middleton area. “David and Teri were the kind of people you hoped to have as neighbors,” said a tearful local resident. “They were the heart of this street. This is unimaginable.”

Police have assured the community that there is no ongoing threat and that the scene was contained to the residence. They are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to this horrific act, including examining possible mental health or domestic stress factors. While many questions remain unanswered, what is clear is the deep and lasting wound left by the sudden loss of two beloved members of the community.

Local officials, clergy, and mental health professionals have rallied to provide support for those affected. Grief counseling services have been made available at nearby churches and community centers, and a candlelight vigil is being planned in downtown Middleton for Friday evening, where friends and residents will gather to remember the lives of David and Teri and to stand together in collective mourning and resilience.

In this moment of unimaginable sorrow, the Middleton community is being reminded of the importance of compassion, connection, and seeking help in times of emotional crisis. A statement from the Pabst family reads in part: “We are devastated beyond words. David and Teri were the anchors of our family, and their loss has left a void that can never be filled. We ask for privacy as we begin to grieve and try to make sense of this tragedy.”

The story of David and Teri Pabst is not just one of loss, but of lives well-lived—lives devoted to each other, to their community, and to making the world a better place in quiet, meaningful ways. While their physical presence is no longer with us, their legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew them.

May David and Teri Pabst rest in eternal peace. And may their memory be a source of strength and inspiration as the community of Middleton begins the long journey toward healing.

It is with deep sorrow and respect that we honor the life and legacy of Lieutenant Tim Thoman, a devoted public servant whose recent passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of many. Lieutenant Thoman’s unwavering dedication to the fire service, his community, and his fellow first responders will forever be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

For over two decades, Lieutenant Tim Thoman served with distinction, integrity, and tireless commitment in the fire department. His journey was one marked by selflessness, bravery, and a deep-rooted passion for helping others. Whether battling dangerous fires, leading emergency response teams, or mentoring young firefighters, Tim embodied the highest ideals of courage and public service. He was the steady hand in crisis, the reassuring voice in chaos, and a pillar of strength for his colleagues and community alike.

Born and raised with a strong sense of duty and compassion, Tim answered the call to serve early in life. His rise through the ranks of the fire service was not only a testament to his skill and determination but also to his leadership and humility. As a lieutenant, he was not only a commanding presence at the scene of emergencies but also a compassionate leader who believed deeply in supporting the physical and emotional well-being of his team. His mentorship shaped the careers of countless firefighters who now carry forward his legacy of excellence.

Lieutenant Thoman was more than just a firefighter; he was a loving husband, a devoted father, a loyal friend, and an involved member of the community. He balanced the demands of a high-risk profession with unwavering dedication to his family and loved ones. Known for his warm smile, calm demeanor, and sharp sense of humor, Tim brought light and strength to those around him. Whether at the firehouse or at home, he was always the first to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or words of encouragement.

In times of tragedy, Lieutenant Thoman was often among the first on the scene, running toward danger to protect lives and property. Today, we find ourselves running out of words to express the depth of our grief and gratitude. His death is a heartbreaking loss not only for his family and fellow firefighters but also for the entire community he so honorably served. Flags are lowered in his memory, radios fall silent in respect, and hearts mourn the loss of a true hero.

As we reflect on Lieutenant Tim Thoman’s life, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to the service of others. His courage, kindness, and commitment will live on in the stories shared by those who knew him, the lives he saved, and the legacy he leaves behind in the department he loved.

To honor Lieutenant Thoman’s life is to continue the work he held so dear — to protect, to serve, and to uplift. His spirit will live on in every call answered, every life saved, and every act of compassion extended in his name. While his watch may have ended, his influence will continue to guide and inspire generations of firefighters and public servants to come.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Thoman family, his brothers and sisters in the fire service, and all those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing, and may we always remember Lieutenant Tim Thoman not just for how he died, but for how he lived — with courage, honor, and a heart full of service.

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that the tight-knit communities of Centralia and Vermillion, Kansas, mourn the tragic and untimely loss of Cole Matson, a beloved young man whose life was cut short following a devastating farm accident. Cole’s sudden passing has sent waves of grief across Nemaha County, touching the lives of countless family members, friends, neighbors, and classmates who knew him not just for his hard work and warm smile, but for the goodness and sincerity that radiated from his soul.

Born and raised in rural Kansas, Cole embodied the very spirit of small-town America—humble, kind, and hardworking. From an early age, Cole developed a deep connection with the land, working side by side with his family on their generational farm. Farming wasn’t just a way of life for Cole—it was his passion. Whether it was helping during harvest season, tending to livestock, or fixing equipment in the barn, Cole approached every task with diligence and pride. His love for agriculture ran deep, rooted in tradition and strengthened by a future full of dreams.

Cole was a proud son, a devoted brother, a loyal friend, and a source of inspiration to those around him. Known for his contagious laugh, unwavering integrity, and strong sense of responsibility, he was a young man of character beyond his years. He had a quiet strength, the kind that didn’t seek attention but always showed up when someone needed help. Whether it was lending a hand at church functions, mentoring younger kids in 4-H, or volunteering at local events, Cole’s generosity and selflessness were constants in the lives of those he touched.

A student and athlete, Cole participated in school sports and FFA, where he made a lasting impression through his dedication, teamwork, and leadership. Teachers and coaches remember him as respectful, driven, and dependable—a young man who led by example and brought heart to everything he did. His peers admired him, not only for his natural abilities but for his unwavering loyalty and kindness.

The tragic accident that claimed Cole’s life has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him. News of his passing has shaken the Centralia and Vermillion communities to their core, as residents gather to support the Matson family during this unimaginable time. Tributes and condolences have poured in from near and far, a testament to how deeply Cole was loved and how wide his influence extended.

In the midst of heartbreak, the community stands united in remembering Cole not just for the tragic way he left this world, but for the beautiful way he lived in it. His memory will live on in the fields he once walked, in the friendships he nurtured, and in the lives he touched with his unwavering kindness and genuine spirit. Though his time on Earth was far too short, Cole Matson’s legacy will forever be written in the hearts of those who had the blessing of knowing him.

A candlelight vigil and memorial services will be held in the coming days to honor Cole’s life and give the community an opportunity to grieve, reflect, and celebrate a young man whose presence was truly a gift. In lieu of flowers, the Matson family kindly asks that donations be made to local FFA chapters or farm safety education programs in Cole’s name—an enduring tribute to a life rooted in service, hard work, and love.

May Cole Matson rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in the embrace of a community that will never forget his light.

With heavy hearts, we share the devastating news that two young siblings, 7-year-old Sebastian Trotter and 4-year-old Charlotte Trotter, tragically lost their lives during the catastrophic flash flooding that struck Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

The Trotter family, like many others in the community, had been attempting to seek safety as severe thunderstorms rolled across the region, triggering rapid and deadly flooding. The storm dumped several inches of rain within a short span of time, overwhelming rivers, creeks, and the ground’s ability to absorb the deluge. It was during this terrifying event that the unthinkable occurred—the surging floodwaters swept through areas near their home, pulling the two children away from their loved ones in an instant.

Sebastian and Charlotte were vibrant, joyful, and deeply loved children whose lives were filled with wonder, laughter, and boundless affection. Sebastian, a rising second-grader, was known for his curious mind, gentle heart, and adventurous spirit. He adored dinosaurs, loved to build intricate Lego creations, and had recently taken an interest in astronomy, often staring up at the stars and asking profound questions that belied his young age. Charlotte, a spirited and loving preschooler, lit up every room she entered with her sweet smile and sparkling eyes. She loved to sing, play dress-up, and was never far from her older brother’s side—they were inseparable.

The loss of these precious children has sent waves of grief through not only their family but also the entire Ruidoso community. Neighbors, friends, classmates, teachers, and complete strangers have come together to mourn, to remember, and to support one another in the face of this unimaginable tragedy. Vigils have been held, flowers and stuffed animals left near the flood site, and candles lit in memory of two lives taken far too soon.

The Trotter family is devastated, navigating an unspeakable heartbreak that no parent, sibling, or grandparent should ever have to endure. Their pain is immeasurable, yet they are surrounded by a growing network of love, prayer, and solidarity from those who know them and even from those who do not but who have been moved by their story.

This tragedy is a sobering reminder of nature’s unpredictable power and the fragile beauty of life. It also speaks to the importance of community in the darkest of times. Local emergency crews, volunteers, and neighbors acted with urgency and compassion during the flooding and continue to assist in the recovery and healing process.

In memory of Sebastian and Charlotte, their family has asked that people hold their own children a little tighter, spread kindness where they can, and consider donating to local flood relief efforts or to a fund being set up in the children’s names, which will go toward emergency preparedness resources and child-focused community programs in Ruidoso.

Though Sebastian and Charlotte’s lives were heartbreakingly short, the light they brought into the world will never be forgotten. Their spirits will forever live on in the stories shared by their loved ones, the laughter they left behind, and the love that endures even in the midst of loss. May they rest in eternal peace, hand in hand, just as they were in life.

The Redwater Independent School District is united in grief as we mourn the heartbreaking loss of Wyatt Yates, a beloved student whose presence touched countless lives within our community. Wyatt passed away unexpectedly, and his absence has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Wyatt was more than just a student — he was a beacon of light within the halls of Redwater schools. With a heart full of compassion and a soul that radiated kindness, he had a rare gift for making those around him feel valued and seen. Whether it was offering a helping hand to a peer, sharing a laugh to brighten someone’s day, or showing quiet support when someone needed it most, Wyatt’s presence was always one of warmth and sincerity.

A dedicated learner and an active participant in both academics and extracurriculars, Wyatt brought energy, curiosity, and a positive spirit to everything he did. His teachers often spoke of his respectful nature, his thoughtfulness in the classroom, and his eagerness to learn—not just from textbooks, but from life and the people around him. In clubs, on the field, or at school events, Wyatt’s enthusiasm and team spirit were contagious.

Beyond his achievements, Wyatt will be remembered most for his character. He had a gentle way of lifting others up without seeking recognition, of encouraging those who needed confidence, and of making each person feel like they mattered. It is this quiet strength, this genuine kindness, that made Wyatt unforgettable.

The news of his passing has reverberated throughout the entire Redwater community. Counselors and support staff are available across campuses to help students, staff, and families process this profound loss. In classrooms, in hallways, and in hearts, the grief is deep, but so too is the gratitude for having known someone as special as Wyatt.

In this time of mourning, we stand together—as classmates, educators, parents, and neighbors—united by sorrow but also by love. We extend our deepest condolences to Wyatt’s family. No words can ease their pain, but we hope they find some comfort in knowing that Wyatt made a difference in so many lives. His light, though extinguished far too soon, continues to shine in the memories and the lives he touched.

To honor Wyatt’s legacy, the district is organizing a candlelight vigil and memory wall where students and staff can share stories, messages, and reflections. Plans are also underway to establish a scholarship or a lasting tribute in his name—something that will continue to reflect the values Wyatt held dear: kindness, compassion, and community.

As we navigate this incredibly difficult moment, let us lean on one another, hold our loved ones close, and keep Wyatt Yates in our thoughts. His time with us, though brief, was filled with love and purpose, and he will never be forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace

In Loving Memory of Darrell Watkins: A Light Gone Too Soon

With broken hearts and tearful eyes, we remember the life and light of Darrell Watkins—a man whose presence left a lasting imprint on all who had the honor of knowing him. His sudden passing has left a deep ache in the Cleveland community, a void that can never be filled, and a silence that speaks volumes about the impact he made during his time with us.

Darrell was more than just a man—he was a friend, a mentor, a neighbor, a father, a brother, and a true example of kindness in action. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Darrell had an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His warm smile, hearty laugh, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand became his trademark. He had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued—no matter how heavy their burdens or how quiet their cries for help.

Throughout his life, Darrell committed himself to lifting others up. Whether through community outreach, church involvement, or just being the one friend who always picked up the phone, he served as a pillar of strength and comfort for many. He volunteered his time at local shelters, youth mentorship programs, and food drives—never seeking recognition, only knowing that giving was his calling. To Darrell, love was a verb, and he lived it out loud every day.

To his family, Darrell was the heart and soul of every gathering. His children describe him as their hero—always supportive, always patient, always proud. He never missed a school play, a basketball game, or a moment to say “I love you.” As a son and brother, his loyalty knew no bounds. Holidays were brighter when Darrell was around, laughter was louder, and meals felt more like celebrations. His loved ones will carry the warmth of his spirit for the rest of their lives.

To his coworkers and peers, Darrell was a leader not by title, but by example. Known for his integrity, humility, and unwavering work ethic, he inspired those around him to be better—not just professionally, but personally. He made his workplace feel like a second home for many, often bringing in coffee for the team or checking in on someone who seemed a little off that day.

But beyond the roles he played and the service he gave, Darrell Watkins will be remembered most for the way he made people feel—loved, accepted, and hopeful. His ability to listen without judgment, to laugh without reservation, and to love without condition made him a rare and cherished soul.

The pain of his absence is immense. Streets he once walked, benches he once sat on, and churches he once worshipped in now echo with memories that feel too quiet without him. The Cleveland community mourns deeply, yet holds on fiercely to the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of compassion, courage, and connection.

In the coming days, as family, friends, and neighbors gather to honor Darrell’s life, may we find comfort in the stories shared, the prayers spoken, and the love that binds us. May we each take a piece of his light forward with us—speaking more gently, listening more intently, and loving more freely.

Rest in peace, Darrell Watkins. Your light will never dim. You were deeply loved, and you will be forever missed

Stamford, Connecticut – With Heavy Hearts: Remembering Brenda Cárdenas

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the community of Stamford, Connecticut, mourns the passing of Brenda Cárdenas, who left this world on July 9, 2025. Brenda was more than just a beloved member of the community—she was a beacon of hope, love, and resilience whose memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing her.

Born and raised in Stamford, Brenda Cárdenas was a proud daughter of Connecticut—a vibrant state known for its historical depth, cultural richness, and close-knit communities. Brenda embodied the spirit of Stamford: hardworking, compassionate, and devoted to family and service. She made an indelible mark on her city, not through grand gestures, but through everyday kindnesses, through her fierce loyalty to friends and family, and through her unwavering strength in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

Brenda’s life was a testament to the power of perseverance and positivity. Even during difficult times, she carried herself with grace and dignity, lifting those around her with her warm smile and calm presence. Whether volunteering at local events, attending church on Sunday mornings, or supporting her children at school and community activities, Brenda always made time for those she loved. She gave generously of her time and heart, never expecting anything in return.

Her passion for helping others extended into her professional life as well. Brenda worked in healthcare administration, where her compassion and attention to detail brought comfort and assurance to countless patients and families. Colleagues remember her as someone who made the workplace feel like home—a calming presence in the storm, a voice of reason, and a source of light.

Stamford, like much of Connecticut, is a community built on resilience and neighborly care, and Brenda was the embodiment of these ideals. Her impact was far-reaching, touching not just her own family, but friends, coworkers, and neighbors. She was known to drop everything to help someone in need, to offer words of encouragement when someone was struggling, and to celebrate the successes of others with genuine joy.

Brenda’s passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who loved her. She is survived by her three children—each of whom carries forward her legacy of kindness and courage—as well as her parents, siblings, extended family, and countless friends who now find themselves heartbroken but grateful for the time they had with her.

In the quiet streets of Stamford, there is a hush of mourning—a collective grief that echoes through the neighborhoods she walked, the parks where she laughed with her children, and the halls of the community centers where she gave so much of herself. Flags fly at half-staff in her honor, and candles flicker in windows across the city as loved ones remember a woman who gave so much and asked for so little.

A memorial service will be held later this week at St. John’s Church in downtown Stamford, where family, friends, and community members will come together to celebrate Brenda’s life, share memories, and offer prayers of comfort. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Brenda’s name to local women’s shelters and mental health organizations—causes that she held close to her heart.

Though Brenda Cárdenas may no longer walk among us, her spirit remains deeply woven into the fabric of Stamford and the broader Connecticut community. Her memory will continue to inspire acts of kindness, resilience, and love for generations to come. She will be missed beyond words but remembered forever.

A veil of heavy fog cloaked U.S. Highway 27 on the morning of Tuesday, July 8, creating treacherous driving conditions and setting the stage for an unthinkable tragedy. The thick fog rolled across the landscape in dense waves, drastically reducing visibility and turning the familiar roadway into a disorienting and dangerous stretch of pavement. Drivers were forced to slow to a crawl, their headlights barely cutting through the soupy gray curtain. But even the most cautious efforts could not prevent what happened next.

At approximately 8:34 a.m., at the intersection with State Road 124, a devastating multi-vehicle crash unfolded—one that would send shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Initial reports indicate that a tractor-trailer, likely unable to see the slowing or stopped traffic ahead due to the limited visibility, plowed into a line of vehicles waiting at the junction. The force of the impact triggered a chain reaction, involving at least seven vehicles, including passenger cars, a pickup truck, and another commercial vehicle.

First responders from multiple jurisdictions rushed to the scene, their sirens wailing through the dense fog. Emergency crews described a harrowing sight: mangled metal, shattered glass, and the unmistakable silence that follows sudden, catastrophic impact. Firefighters worked quickly to extricate individuals trapped in their vehicles, using hydraulic rescue tools to pry open twisted car doors and truck cabs. Some victims were rushed to nearby hospitals via ambulance, while others were airlifted in critical condition.

Tragically, officials later confirmed that at least four people lost their lives in the accident, including a young mother and her 8-year-old son, who were on their way to a routine medical appointment. Several others sustained serious injuries, and a number of families now find themselves anxiously awaiting updates on loved ones still in surgery or intensive care. The identities of the deceased have not yet been officially released, pending family notification.

As investigators with the state highway patrol and the National Transportation Safety Board began to reconstruct the incident, questions mounted about whether appropriate warnings were in place along that notoriously fog-prone stretch of highway. Witnesses reported seeing no fog advisory signage before the crash site, although local meteorological data shows that dense fog warnings had been issued for the area early that morning.

Local authorities temporarily closed U.S. Highway 27 in both directions for several hours, diverting traffic to alternative routes as investigators combed through the wreckage and tow trucks worked to clear the scene. By mid-afternoon, only debris and scorched pavement remained—a grim reminder of how quickly life can change in an instant.

In the aftermath, community leaders expressed grief and support for the victims. “This is a heartbreaking day for our town and everyone who uses that road,” said County Commissioner Laura Bennett during a press briefing. “Our hearts go out to the families affected, and we’re working with state officials to ensure a thorough investigation takes place.”

Counseling services have been made available for first responders, witnesses, and local residents grappling with the emotional toll of the tragedy. A candlelight vigil is planned for Friday evening at the county courthouse, where families, friends, and community members can gather to honor the lives lost and show support for those still recovering.

The July 8 crash stands as a somber reminder of the perils that can emerge when nature and traffic intersect under the worst of circumstances. As the investigation continues, the community holds its breath, united in sorrow, and determined to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated.