Author: Admin

COLUMBUS, Ga. — 54-year-old Lawrence Perry was killed in a shooting early Wednesday morning on Columbus’s Northside Industrial Boulevard, and police say a suspect is now in custody following a multi-agency manhunt.

The Shooting

On September 3, 2025, at approximately 6:16 a.m., Columbus police officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 1600 block of Northside Industrial Boulevard. While on the way, officers received a second call from St. Francis Hospital regarding a gunshot victim who had arrived for emergency treatment.

Authorities quickly determined the two incidents were connected. Perry was transported to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.

Investigation and Arrest

The Violent Crimes Unit was called to the scene and took the lead on the investigation. Through witness statements and early evidence collection, detectives identified 32-year-old Walter Bethune as the suspect.

With assistance from the Columbus Police Fugitive Unit and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, officers tracked Bethune to Smiths Station, Alabama, where he was taken into custody without incident.

Bethune is currently being held at the Lee County Jail awaiting extradition to Columbus. He faces a charge of Murder in connection with Perry’s death.

Community Impact

The killing marks another act of violence in Columbus, a city that has battled with rising gun crime in recent years. Perry’s death has devastated family members and rattled residents in the area, many of whom woke up to police activity in their neighborhood.

“This should never have happened,” one nearby resident said. “People are tired of waking up to shootings—it feels like it never stops.”

Ongoing Investigation

Police have not released details about what led up to the shooting, including whether Perry and Bethune knew each other or what the motive may have been. Investigators are continuing to piece together the timeline of events leading to the deadly gunfire.

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to contact Cpl. M. Ruiz at 706-225-4379 or via email at ruiz.mary-macy@columbusga.org. Tipsters may remain anonymous.

A City Searching for Solutions

As Columbus records yet another homicide, community leaders and law enforcement are calling for stronger outreach programs and intervention efforts to address the ongoing cycle of gun violence.

“Every time we lose a life to violence, it leaves a scar on our entire city,” one city official said. “We have to work together—not just law enforcement, but neighbors, families, and community groups—to stop this from becoming the norm.”

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that left a man dead inside a Kansas City apartment, marking the city’s 110th homicide of 2025.

The Discovery

Police said paramedics were already on scene when officers arrived after receiving a call Monday evening. Emergency responders advised officers that an unresponsive man was inside the apartment. Upon further investigation, authorities discovered the man had suffered gunshot trauma.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of family.

No Suspects in Custody

According to Capt. Jake Gonzalez of the Kansas City Police Department, no suspects have been identified, and investigators are still working to piece together the circumstances that led to the shooting.

“We’re asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward,” Gonzalez said. “The smallest piece of information can be critical in cases like this.”

At this time, police have not said whether the shooting appeared to be targeted or random.

Rising Violence in Kansas City

The killing marks the 110th homicide in Kansas City this year, slightly above the 109 homicides reported at the same point in 2024, according to data tracked by The Kansas City Star. Those figures include police-involved shootings.

The steady pace of violence continues to raise concerns among community leaders, who have long pushed for stronger efforts in curbing gun crime and addressing the root causes of violence in the city.

Call for Information

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Kansas City Police Department’s homicide detectives at 816-234-5043, or call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

All tips remain anonymous, and callers may be eligible for a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest.

A City Searching for Solutions

While detectives continue their investigation, community advocates say the city must continue working toward long-term solutions to stop the cycle of violence. The latest homicide, they warn, is yet another reminder of the lives lost and families forever changed.

“This isn’t just a number—it’s someone’s loved one,” a neighborhood activist said. “We have to keep pushing for change.”

CHICAGO — A shooting on the city’s Southwest Side earlier this week left 48-year-old Michael Torres dead, and authorities have now announced an arrest in the case.

The Shooting

Chicago police said Torres was standing outside in the 2600 block of South Kolin Avenue around 11:20 a.m. Monday when he was approached by another man. Without warning, the assailant pulled out a firearm and opened fire, striking him multiple times in the abdomen.

Officers and emergency crews rushed to the scene, and Torres was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts to save his life, he later died of his injuries.

The Arrest

On Wednesday, authorities announced that 39-year-old Ramiro Sanchez had been arrested in connection with the killing. He faces one felony count of first-degree murder.

According to police, Sanchez was taken into custody just before 1 p.m. on September 1, only hours after the shooting occurred. Detectives credited quick investigative work and community cooperation for leading to the arrest so swiftly.

Community Reaction

The fatal shooting has rattled residents in the Little Village and South Lawndale areas, where neighbors say violence has become an all-too-familiar reality. Several locals expressed frustration at yet another killing on their block, emphasizing the toll such incidents continue to take on families and the broader community.

“This is somebody’s father, somebody’s brother, somebody’s son,” one resident said. “We keep losing lives on these streets, and it feels like nothing changes.”

Ongoing Investigation

While an arrest has been made, investigators are still working to determine what led up to the deadly confrontation. Police have not released details regarding a possible motive or whether the suspect and victim knew each other prior to the incident.

Sanchez is expected to appear in bond court later this week, where prosecutors will outline the case against him.

Broader Context

Chicago has continued to grapple with gun violence in 2025, with the Southwest Side experiencing a number of shootings in recent months. City officials have reiterated calls for community engagement and violence prevention programs while law enforcement continues to pursue suspects quickly after such crimes occur.

For now, the Torres family is left grieving the sudden and violent loss of a loved one, as the legal process begins against the man accused of pulling the trigger.

HOUSTON, Texas — An 11-year-old boy, identified as Julian Guzman, was tragically shot and killed in southeast Houston after a door-knock prank turned deadly. Police say the shooter, 42-year-old Leon Gonzalo Jr., opened fire after his home was targeted in the viral “ding-dong-ditch” prank — a TikTok-inspired trend where kids knock or kick on doors and run away.

What Happened

According to investigators, Julian and at least two of his friends had been running around the neighborhood late Sunday, banging on doors as part of the prank. When they reached Gonzalo’s residence, the man allegedly rushed outside with a firearm.

“Our witness says the suspect came out of the door, ran out into the street and was firing down the road,” a Houston Police Department spokesperson said.

One of the bullets struck Julian in the back as he attempted to run away. He collapsed about a block from the scene before being rushed to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Charges and Police Response

Gonzalo was taken into custody and charged with murder. Police emphasized that the circumstances do not suggest any credible threat to the suspect’s safety.

“In my opinion, it doesn’t look like any type of self-defense,” the officer added.

Authorities say Gonzalo appeared to fire indiscriminately, endangering not only the children but also neighbors who lived along the street.

A Devastated Community

Julian’s death has left his family and community in mourning. Relatives described him as a playful, loving child who had a bright future ahead of him. Community members have set up a growing memorial near the site of the shooting, with flowers, candles, and stuffed animals honoring the 11-year-old’s memory.

Neighbors expressed both grief and outrage. “They were just being kids. That man had no right to take a child’s life over something so harmless,” one resident said.

Dangerous Trend With Deadly Consequences

The shooting adds to a troubling string of incidents nationwide tied to the “door-kick” or “ding-dong-ditch” challenge circulating on TikTok and other platforms. While the trend is often intended as a harmless prank, it has led to heated confrontations, property damage, and now — tragic loss of life.

Experts warn that the mix of viral internet challenges and heightened tensions around property safety can create volatile situations. In heavily armed communities, pranks that might once have drawn annoyance or laughter now risk violent outcomes.

Moving Forward

As Gonzalo awaits trial, Julian’s family is calling for justice. Community leaders are also urging parents to talk with children about the dangers of certain viral challenges and the unpredictable ways people may respond.

“This tragedy should never have happened,” one local pastor said at a community gathering. “Julian’s life was stolen because of anger and a gun. We owe it to him to make sure no other family goes through this again.”

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The city of Birmingham is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Li Bjayee, a beloved community member who passed away on September 3, 2025. His death came just hours after he shared a concerning post on Facebook, leaving friends, family, and neighbors in shock.

A Troubling Final Message

Li’s final words online have become a chilling reminder of how many people silently wrestle with pain beneath the surface. According to those who knew him, the post sparked immediate concern among friends who attempted to reach out. Sadly, their fears were confirmed when news of his passing broke later that same day.

Authorities have not released official details regarding the circumstances of his death, but what is clear is that his loss has left a deep void in the Birmingham community.

Remembering Li Bjayee

Friends describe Li as someone who was full of life, with a contagious smile and an ability to brighten any room he walked into. He was known for his humor, his loyalty, and his genuine compassion for others. Many are struggling to reconcile the vibrant man they loved with the pain he carried in private.

“He was always the one lifting everyone else up,” one close friend shared. “I just wish he knew how much he meant to all of us.”

On social media, tributes have poured in from classmates, coworkers, and neighbors, each remembering Li for the joy he spread and the kindness he extended to those around him.

A Community in Mourning

The news has reverberated throughout Birmingham, where Li had deep connections. Local churches, student groups, and community organizations have all expressed condolences to his family, with some also calling for greater awareness of mental health struggles.

“Li’s passing is a devastating reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health,” a community leader said. “We need to keep looking out for each other, and we need to create safe spaces for people to ask for help before it’s too late.”

The Importance of Mental Health Support

Li’s death underscores the urgent need for open conversations about mental health, particularly among young adults. Experts emphasize that many who suffer often feel isolated, even while surrounded by friends and family.

“People may put on a brave face, but inside they could be fighting battles no one sees,” said a local counselor. “Checking in, listening without judgment, and encouraging support can truly save lives.”

National hotlines and local organizations are encouraging anyone struggling with thoughts of self-harm to seek immediate help.

Honoring His Memory

Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced soon by Li’s family, who have requested privacy as they grieve. Friends and supporters have begun organizing candlelight vigils to celebrate his life and to honor the impact he had on so many.

While Birmingham has lost a cherished member of its community, Li Bjayee’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. His story, though heartbreaking, may also inspire others to speak out, reach for help, and know they are never truly alone.

The recent decision by the district attorney to not file charges in the fatal shooting of Malachi Mitchell has left many in the community shocked and heartbroken. The case raises complex questions about self-defense claims, transparency, and accountability in situations where one party is deceased and cannot provide their side of the story.

While some have attempted to frame the incident as a straightforward self-defense case, many observers point out the inherent difficulty in assessing such claims when the victim is no longer alive to testify or provide context. In addition, social media misinformation has circulated, with some pages inaccurately describing the individuals involved as teenagers; in reality, both Malachi Mitchell and the shooter were adults.

Several key details about the shooting remain unanswered and concerning to the public:

• Location of the shooting: Though Malachi’s body was reportedly found in the street, the vehicle in which he was traveling was not immediately secured at the scene, raising questions about the initial response.
• Number of gunshot wounds: Authorities have not released specifics about how many times Mitchell was shot, leaving a gap in understanding the circumstances of the incident.
• Rapid release of the shooter: Reports indicate the alleged shooter was released within hours, sparking outrage and raising questions about procedural fairness and potential influences in the case.
• Traffic violations: If the shooter was allegedly driving recklessly and ran a red light, the public has noted the absence of traffic citations or charges connected to these actions.

The case has reignited broader conversations about accountability, law enforcement procedures, and the handling of fatal incidents. Residents and advocates are calling for increased transparency in the investigation, including access to body camera footage, forensic reports, and a clearer explanation of the DA’s decision-making process.

Community members and family of Malachi Mitchell are seeking answers, not only for closure but to ensure that all protocols were properly followed and that justice is clearly communicated. The case underscores the delicate balance between self-defense claims and the right to thorough, impartial scrutiny when a life has been lost.

As the community continues to grapple with the tragedy, there is a shared hope that unanswered questions will eventually be addressed, and that lessons learned from this case can contribute to safer roads, clearer investigative standards, and accountability for all parties involved.

BLUE GAP, Ariz. – Earlier today, around 12:00 p.m., the Navajo Police Department (Chinle District) responded to multiple reports of a vehicle on fire at a residence in Blue Gap. Upon arrival, a Chinle District officer located a male standing by a living room window of the home. The officer made contact and instructed the individual to show his hands.

According to authorities, the male became confrontational and aggressive during the encounter. He then picked up and brandished a homemade firearm, pointing it at the officer. In response, the officer discharged one round from his duty weapon.

The officer secured the scene while additional units arrived to assist. Law enforcement personnel attempted to render aid to the male, who was later identified as a 40-year-old Navajo man. Tragically, he died at the scene.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation by the Navajo Police Department, with authorities working to determine the full sequence of events. No additional information regarding the individual’s identity or potential motive has been released at this time.

The Navajo Police Department and community leaders have recognized the bravery and professionalism of the responding officers. These men and women put their lives on the line daily to protect and serve the community, facing unpredictable and potentially deadly situations.

Officials reminded the public of the risks law enforcement personnel confront regularly and thanked the officers for their courage, dedication, and commitment to public safety.

Community members are encouraged to respect the ongoing investigation as law enforcement continues to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine all relevant details surrounding this tragic event.

It is with deep sadness that the Columbus Fire Department announces the passing of retired Lieutenant Rick Millam, a distinguished member of the department whose career spanned 37 years before his retirement in 2010.

Lieutenant Millam was a second-generation firefighter, continuing a proud family legacy of service to the community. Throughout his nearly four decades of dedication, he exemplified the values of courage, professionalism, and selflessness that define the firefighting profession. Colleagues remember him as a mentor, a leader, and a friend who consistently went above and beyond in his commitment to protecting others.

Upon his retirement, Rick Millam passed the torch to his son, Jeremy, a third-generation firefighter, who continues the family’s tradition of service as a Captain with the Columbus Fire Department. This remarkable lineage of dedication to the fire service reflects the profound impact Rick had not only on the department but also on his family, inspiring the next generation of firefighters to uphold the same principles of bravery and community service.

The Columbus Fire Department extends heartfelt condolences to Rick’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. His life and career left an enduring legacy, one that will continue to influence and inspire both his colleagues and the community he served.

As the department and community mourn the loss of Lieutenant Millam, they also celebrate his remarkable contributions and the lives he touched throughout his distinguished career. He will be remembered for his steadfast dedication, his leadership, and the values he instilled in both his peers and his family.

The department asks that the community keep Rick Millam’s family in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate the sorrow of his passing. May his memory be a blessing, and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

JEFFERSON DAVIS PARISH, La. (September 3, 2025) – Louisiana State Police Troop D continues its investigation into the fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of 53-year-old Bonnie Fontenot of Jennings. Forensic analysis has confirmed that Fontenot was struck by a vehicle sometime between August 22 and August 27, 2025.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect vehicle may be a pickup truck or SUV, likely green or turquoise in color, with potential damage to the front end or driver’s side. Investigators believe the vehicle may frequent Iowa or U.S. 165 in the Jefferson Davis Parish area. Authorities are actively seeking tips to identify the driver and vehicle involved in this tragic incident.

The initial crash investigation began on August 27, 2025, around 1:00 p.m., when troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop D responded to a fatal pedestrian collision on the Interstate 10 north frontage road just east of U.S. Highway 165. Bonnie Fontenot, who had previously been reported missing by the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, sustained fatal injuries after being struck and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials describe the incident as a hit-and-run, noting that the vehicle left the scene without stopping. Investigators are working diligently to determine the make, model, and driver of the vehicle. They emphasize the importance of any information that could lead to identifying those responsible.

Law enforcement urges anyone with relevant details to contact Louisiana State Police Troop D at (337) 491-2511. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system or by calling the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

Trooper First Class Peggy Bourque of the Louisiana State Police Public Affairs Section – Troop I, is serving as the point of contact for media inquiries and public updates at (337) 262-5880

The tragic loss of Bonnie Fontenot has deeply impacted the Jefferson Davis Parish community, and authorities are committed to pursuing justice while seeking the public’s assistance in locating the suspect vehicle and driver. Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.

KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va – Tragedy struck the Glasgow area of Kanawha County on Tuesday when a fatal crash claimed the life of Marvin James Smith Jr., 50, of Rand, West Virginia.

According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred when the Jeep Grand Cherokee Smith was driving left the roadway while negotiating a left-hand curve. The vehicle reportedly struck a utility pole and overturned, ultimately coming to rest beside nearby railroad tracks.

Authorities say the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit is actively working to determine the precise factors that contributed to the tragic accident, including speed, road conditions, and possible mechanical issues. No additional details have been released at this time.

Family, friends, and the community are mourning the sudden loss of Smith, a resident of Rand whose life was cut short in this devastating crash. Residents have expressed sorrow and condolences, highlighting the profound impact such tragedies have on local families and neighborhoods.

Officials urge drivers to exercise caution, especially on curving or potentially hazardous roads, and remind the public that traffic safety remains a shared responsibility to help prevent accidents like this from occurring.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office has stated that updates will be provided as more information becomes available regarding the cause of the crash.