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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ms. Jennifer Clifford ’88, a cherished member of the Marian Catholic community who dedicated nearly two decades of her life to teaching, mentoring, and leading with grace and compassion.

A proud alumna of Marian Catholic, Ms. Clifford returned to her alma mater in 2004 to begin what would become a remarkable journey of service, inspiration, and faith-filled leadership. She began as a dedicated Science teacher, where her love of learning and gift for teaching ignited curiosity in countless students. Known for her patience, clarity, and ability to make even the most complex lessons understandable, she helped young people see not only the world through the lens of science but also their own potential for greatness.

Her passion for the well-being of her students extended far beyond the classroom. In 2012, Ms. Clifford stepped into the role of Dean of Women, a position in which she served faithfully until 2022. As Dean, she became a trusted mentor, guide, and advocate for generations of young women. She carried herself with kindness, fairness, and integrity, always striving to create a safe, supportive environment where students could grow both academically and personally.

Ms. Clifford was admired by colleagues and loved by students for her warmth, generosity of spirit, and unwavering commitment to Marian Catholic’s mission. She embodied the values of faith, scholarship, and service, living them out in her daily work and interactions. Her legacy is one of encouragement, strength, and compassion—qualities that will continue to inspire the Marian Catholic family for years to come.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms. Clifford will be remembered for her humility, her ability to listen, and her gift of making others feel valued. To many, she was more than a teacher or dean—she was a mentor, a friend, and a role model whose influence reached far beyond the walls of the school.

As we grieve this immense loss, we ask the community to join us in keeping Ms. Clifford’s family, friends, former students, and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. Her life was one of profound impact, and though she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Ms. Jennifer Clifford ’88 leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years, but in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with gratitude and love.

 

REDDING, Calif. — September 2, 2025 — A quiet Tuesday afternoon in Redding was shattered by violence when a man allegedly shot and killed two family members outside his home on Abernathy Lane. Police say the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Jesse Penta, was arrested following a tense standoff with law enforcement.

Shots Fired Call Leads to SWAT Activation

According to the Redding Police Department (RPD), officers were dispatched at approximately 1:15 p.m. to the 10000 block of Abernathy Lane after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire. One of those calls came from Penta himself, who told dispatchers that he had just shot two people outside his residence and remained armed inside.

Given the severity of the situation, RPD immediately activated its Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team and deployed an Armored BearCat vehicle to the scene. Columbia Elementary School, located nearby, was placed on hard lockdown as a precaution, and residents in the area were urged to shelter in place.

Victims Found, But Could Not Be Saved

When officers arrived, they discovered two adult victims lying outside the home suffering from catastrophic gunshot wounds. Officers quickly pulled them to safety under armored cover and administered emergency first aid. Tragically, despite their efforts, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities later identified the deceased as Tony Penta and his mother. Their deaths have left the community stunned, with neighbors describing the family as troubled but never expecting such a violent outcome.

Negotiations Lead to Peaceful Arrest

Inside the home, Jesse Penta remained armed but eventually spoke by phone with a Crisis Intervention Response officer. Police say that ongoing dialogue allowed them to de-escalate the situation and convince Penta to surrender peacefully.

Just before mid-afternoon, Penta exited the residence unarmed and was taken into custody without further incident. He was transported to the Shasta County Jail, where he was booked on two counts of murder.

History of Disturbances at the Residence

Investigators confirmed that police had been called to the Abernathy Lane residence multiple times in recent weeks for family-related disturbances. While officials have not yet disclosed what led to Tuesday’s fatal shooting, they indicated that long-standing tensions may have played a role.

“This was not a random act of violence,” RPD said in a statement. “The victims and suspect were known to one another, and there is no ongoing threat to the community.”

Community Disruption and Aftermath

The incident caused significant disruption in the surrounding area. Columbia Elementary School was locked down from approximately 1:30 p.m. until 2:04 p.m., when police confirmed there was no active threat to the campus. Parents were notified, and officers remained on site until classes were dismissed safely.

Meanwhile, Abernathy Lane was shut down for several hours as detectives worked the crime scene, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses. The heavy police presence drew dozens of concerned neighbors who stood at a distance, many expressing shock at the day’s tragic events.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains active as detectives continue to piece together the timeline of events leading up to the shooting. Officials have not yet released the weapon used or the details of Jesse Penta’s interview with police.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Redding Police Department’s Detective Division at (530) 225-4214.

This case marks one of the most serious incidents of family violence in Redding in recent memory, leaving two people dead and a community searching for answers.

 

ALEXANDRIA, La. — September 3, 2025 — The Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations, Region 3, has launched an investigation into an officer-involved shooting that left one person dead in Alexandria on Tuesday afternoon.

According to preliminary reports, the incident unfolded around 1:00 p.m. near the intersection of Chester Street and Rapides Avenue, prompting the Alexandria Police Department (APD) to request assistance from state investigators.

Authorities confirmed that one subject was shot and pronounced deceased at the scene. At this time, officials have not released the individual’s name pending notification of family members. Importantly, no Alexandria police officers were injured in the exchange.

State Police Called to Lead Investigation

Following standard protocol, Louisiana State Police (LSP) detectives were called in to ensure an independent review of the events leading up to the shooting. Investigators remained at the scene for several hours, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting the area where the deadly encounter occurred.

Officials emphasized that this is an active and ongoing investigation, and many questions remain unanswered. “Detectives are working to process the scene and gather further information,” state police noted in a release. “Additional details will be shared when they become available.”

Appeal for Community Assistance

Authorities are urging members of the public to assist with the investigation. Residents who may have seen the incident, or who possess cell phone video, photographs, or other relevant information, are strongly encouraged to come forward.

Information can be shared directly with LSP Detectives or submitted anonymously through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system at www.lsp.org, by clicking “Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity.” Tips can also be phoned in to the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

Community Impact

The shooting drew a large law enforcement response, with Chester Street and nearby areas temporarily closed to traffic as crime scene investigators worked. Neighbors described a heavy police presence and expressed concern about the violence that unfolded in the middle of the day.

As news spread, community members gathered nearby, many seeking clarity about what sparked the incident. For now, police have not disclosed whether the subject was armed, what led to the confrontation, or how many officers were involved in the shooting.

Public Information Contact

For updates, the Louisiana State Police has designated Master Trooper Casey Wallace of the Public Affairs Section – Troop E as the official point of contact. He can be reached at (318) 447-9459 or by email at casey.wallace@la.gov.

Ongoing Review

As is customary in all officer-involved shootings, the findings of this investigation will eventually be turned over to the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office for review. State police officials stressed that the investigation remains in its early stages and urged patience as detectives piece together the sequence of events.

“This is a developing case, and our priority is ensuring a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation,” authorities said.

 

ALEXANDRIA, La. — September 3, 2025 — Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations, Region 3, are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon in Alexandria.

According to authorities, the incident unfolded around 1:00 p.m. on Chester Street near Rapides Avenue, when officers with the Alexandria Police Department encountered a subject during the course of their duties. At some point during the interaction, shots were fired by at least one officer, striking the individual.

The subject was pronounced deceased at the scene. Police have not yet released the identity of the person involved, pending notification of family members. Officials confirmed that no officers were injured during the incident.

Investigation Underway

At the request of the Alexandria Police Department, Louisiana State Police Detectives were brought in to conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives with the Bureau of Investigations are currently processing the scene, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses.

“This investigation is active and ongoing,” officials said in a statement. “Our detectives are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial review of all available evidence.”

The Louisiana State Police stressed that officer-involved shootings are handled with the highest level of scrutiny, with all investigative findings to be turned over to the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office for review.

Community Appeal for Information

Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has video, photographs, or other information to come forward. Members of the public can submit tips directly to Louisiana State Police Detectives or remain anonymous through the LSP online reporting system at lsp.org by clicking “Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity.”

Tips can also be submitted via the LSP Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.

Official Contact

The Louisiana State Police have designated Master Trooper Casey Wallace of the Public Affairs Section, Troop E as the point of contact for public and media inquiries. Wallace can be reached by phone at (318) 447-9459 or via email at casey.wallace@la.gov.

Community Response

The incident has drawn significant attention in Alexandria, with Chester Street and Rapides Avenue closed to traffic for several hours as law enforcement secured and processed the scene. Residents expressed shock at the heavy police presence, with many gathering nearby as word of the shooting spread.

This marks the latest officer-involved shooting in the state under review by Louisiana State Police, who remain the lead agency for ensuring independent oversight of critical incidents involving local police departments.

Officials emphasized that further details, including the identity of the deceased subject, will be released once confirmed, and as the investigation allows.

 

TORONTO, ONTARIO — A brazen midday gunfight near a school in Toronto’s west end left two people seriously injured on Wednesday, including an innocent bystander who was caught in the crossfire.

According to Toronto Police, the shooting unfolded just before 12:00 p.m. along Keele Street near Donald Avenue, when two groups of three to four individuals exchanged gunfire across the busy roadway.

The Victims

Police confirmed that a 17-year-old male was struck by gunfire, along with a 30-year-old woman who had been driving through the area when the violence erupted.

While investigators have not disclosed whether the teen was directly connected to the gunfight, they emphasized that the woman was simply an innocent bystander whose car became trapped in the middle of the shootout.

Both victims were rushed to hospital by paramedics with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The Response

The gunfire sent shockwaves through the community, forcing several schools in the area to enact emergency protocols. York Memorial Collegiate Institute, along with multiple nearby schools, went into lockdown and hold-and-secure procedures as officers swarmed the area.

By early afternoon, the Toronto District School Board confirmed that those safety measures had been lifted, but parents and students described a tense and frightening ordeal.

“Everyone was told to stay inside, away from the windows,” said one student who was inside York Memorial at the time. “We were scared—we didn’t know what was happening outside.”

Suspect in Custody

Police said one young suspect has already been taken into custody. Investigators also confirmed the recovery of a firearm and a loaded magazine, but would not provide further details.

No descriptions of the remaining suspects have been released, and authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages.

Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from businesses and residences in the area and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Community Impact

The incident has raised renewed concerns about gun violence in Toronto, particularly its proximity to schools and family neighborhoods. Keele Street was closed for several hours as police combed the area for evidence, leaving residents shaken.

“This could have been so much worse,” said one area resident. “Kids were in school, parents were driving by—it’s terrifying to think something like this could happen in broad daylight near children.”

Ongoing Investigation

Toronto Police are asking anyone with information, video, or photos of the shooting to contact investigators or reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Meanwhile, parents, students, and residents in the Keele and Donald Avenue area are left grappling with the frightening reality of a shootout that unfolded steps away from their schools and homes.

 

LOWELL, Mass. — A frightening situation unfolded on the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) South Campus on Wednesday after reports surfaced of a man walking near a residence hall with what appeared to be a rifle.

The university issued an active shooter alert just after the first reports, instructing students and staff to “Run, hide, fight” and to follow all police instructions. A shelter-in-place order remains in effect as heavily armed officers continue to search for the suspect.

Suspect Description

According to Lowell Police Department and UML Campus Police, the suspect is described as an Asian male, approximately 5’5” tall, wearing either a gray or white sweatshirt with black shorts, and carrying a long weapon consistent with a rifle.

He was last seen near Riverview Suites, a residence hall located on UML’s South Campus, prompting a massive law enforcement response in and around the area.

The Response

Police immediately locked down the campus, while tactical units, including SWAT officers, began a building-by-building search. Students were urged to remain where they were, barricade doors if necessary, and avoid windows until given an all-clear.

Video circulating on social media appeared to show the individual walking across campus with the weapon, sparking panic among students and parents alike.

“We are taking this situation extremely seriously,” said one university official in a statement. “The safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority.”

Impact on Students

Students described a tense and terrifying afternoon as alerts flashed across their phones. Many reported taking cover in classrooms, dorms, or even bathrooms, listening anxiously for updates.

“Everyone just froze when the alert came through,” said one student who was inside Riverview Suites at the time. “We locked the door, turned off the lights, and tried to stay quiet. It’s the scariest moment of my life.”

Parents also rushed online and to the campus area, desperate for updates and reassurance about their children’s safety.

Ongoing Investigation

As of late Wednesday, police had not yet located the suspect, and the shelter-in-place order remains in effect. Officials are urging the public to avoid the South Campus area and to report any suspicious activity immediately.

“This is still a very active and ongoing investigation,” police said. “We ask that the community remain patient and vigilant while we work to ensure the campus is safe.”

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any shots were fired, but stressed that law enforcement will remain on the scene until the situation is fully resolved.

 

The Middleton community is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Alyxander Baker, a beloved student of Middleton High School, whose bright smile and kind heart touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Alyxander will be remembered for his generosity, his joyful spirit, and the way he always lit up every room with laughter and warmth. He loved his family deeply, cherished his friends, and lived each day with energy and passion.

A young man of many talents, Alyxander dreamed of becoming a welder and was already shaping that path in spirit, “welding joy into people’s hearts,” as his family beautifully described. Whether playing sports, enjoying music, or simply spending time with loved ones, he embraced life fully and left behind memories that will last forever.

He is survived by his loving family, many close friends, and a community that will hold his memory in their hearts.

A celebration of Alyxander’s life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites prayers, love, and support as they honor Alyxander’s memory and the joy he brought into their lives.

 

PETTIPAS, Isaiah Ian – Age 16, of Elmwood, Lunenburg County, passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the QEII Health Sciences Centre – Infirmary Site, Halifax, following a courageous battle to overcome injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. Born on October 3, 2008, in Bridgewater, he was the eldest son of Ian and Jeanette (Crouse) Pettipas.

Isaiah lived a vibrant, full life that reflected his passions, his talents, and his deep love for his family and friends. From a young age, he was fascinated by anything with wheels. His first plywood “bike ramp” was built while he still had training wheels, and over time he graduated from a mountain bike to a motorized bike, to his beloved dirt bike. He spent countless hours riding, practicing wheelies (only telling his mother after the fact), and later working on his first car, which became his pride and joy. Skilled well beyond his years, Isaiah had a natural gift for mechanics, often with grease-stained hands and a determination that saw every project through. After high school, he planned to attend NSCC for the Truck and Transport program, but his dream was to one day follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and become a lobster fisherman. He loved the ocean and felt at home helping out on fishing trips.

Isaiah’s rural upbringing shaped his adventurous and hardworking spirit. He learned to hunt with his dad, proudly taking his first buck with a crossbow. He loved fishing, even crafting his own lures, and often explored the woods and trails near home on his dirt bike or four-wheeler. He also enjoyed tending to the family garden, caring for the chickens, turkeys, and pigs, and spending time with his dog, Chief, and his cat, Nala. Home and the quiet country life meant everything to him.

Known for his ability to “pull a rabbit out of his hat,” Isaiah had a way of leaving things to the last minute, only to excel in the end. Whether it was writing a speech overnight and winning a 4-H competition the next morning, or completing his welding projects the night before exhibition and taking home grand champion, he always amazed those around him. With a grin, he would insist, “That’s not luck, that’s skill.”

Isaiah had a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor. His clever remarks often made others laugh long after the joke had landed, and he loved pulling practical pranks, including chasing his mother with spiders. He was also artistic, with natural talent for drawing and painting. While organized sports weren’t his passion, he enjoyed skiing, swimming, and competing in tug-of-war with the Lunenburg County 4-H team. Most recently, he showed his competitive spirit by sprinting after his brother Ira in a moment of sibling mischief.

As the oldest brother, Isaiah shared a close bond with Ira and Avalon. The three grew up side by side, filling their home with mischief, arguments, laughter, and love. He was their fiercest protector, despite the sibling squabbles. He also cherished his many friends and enjoyed every chance to spend time with them. Most importantly, Isaiah had found a special relationship with his girlfriend, Rachel Lowe, who held a cherished place in his heart.

Though his time was far too short, Isaiah lived with a passion and determination that left an impact on all who knew him. He was hardworking, caring, and full of life, and his memory will remain a guiding light for his family and friends. Through his final act of generosity as an organ donor, Isaiah gave the gift of life to five people—leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and hope.

Isaiah is survived by his loving parents, Ian and Jeanette; his siblings, Ira and Avalon, at home; paternal grandparents, Everett “Bub” and Susan “Patsy” (Slaunwhite) Pettipas of Terence Bay; maternal grandmother, Shirley Crouse (Richard Snyder) of New Germany; his girlfriend, Rachel Lowe of Lower Northfield; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts. He was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, James Crouse.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 35 York Street, Bridgewater. The funeral service will take place on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 25 Phoenix Street, Bridgewater, with Rev. Catherine Robar officiating. A private family interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery, West Northfield.

 

 

Authorities have released the identity of the driver involved in a fatal crash that occurred Tuesday in the Glasgow area of Kanawha County. The victim has been identified as 50-year-old Marvin James Smith Jr., of Rand, West Virginia.

According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the crash happened when the Jeep Grand Cherokee Smith was operating left the roadway while negotiating a left-hand curve. The vehicle then struck a utility pole with significant force before overturning and coming to rest beside the railroad tracks. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, but Smith did not survive the crash.

The impact caused considerable damage to both the vehicle and surrounding infrastructure. The area was temporarily closed to traffic while first responders worked to secure the site and begin the initial stages of the investigation.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit has since taken over the case and is working to determine what factors may have contributed to the accident. Investigators will review roadway conditions, vehicle evidence, and other details as part of their ongoing efforts to understand how the crash unfolded.

Community members in Rand and Glasgow are mourning the sudden loss of Smith, who is remembered by family and friends as someone who will be deeply missed.

The investigation remains active, and no further details have yet been released. Updates are expected as the Sheriff’s Office continues its work.

 

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Todd Pack, a beloved friend, brother in spirit, and a man whose presence touched the lives of so many. Writing these words feels surreal, as Todd was truly one of my best friends and someone I have always considered family.

Todd was more than just a friend—he was the kind of person who could brighten a room with his laughter and bring comfort with his presence. Together, we shared countless good times, moments of joy, and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. From the simple conversations to the adventures we embarked on, every experience with him was meaningful and unforgettable.

What made Todd so special was not only his sense of humor and kindness but also his loyalty and heart. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. To those fortunate enough to have known him, he was a source of strength, support, and inspiration. He treated his friends as family, and for many of us, that bond will live on forever.

Though his passing leaves an emptiness that words can hardly describe, his spirit will continue to live in the stories we tell, the memories we cherish, and the lessons he taught us through the way he lived his life. Todd will be deeply missed by many, but he will never be forgotten. His love, laughter, and legacy will remain in our hearts always.

Love you, my brother Todd. Until we meet again, may you rest in peace. Prayers go out to all of his family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.