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UNION COUNTY, Ohio — One person has died and another was seriously injured following a head-on collision in northern Union County early Saturday morning, according to Sheriff Mike Justice.

The crash occurred at approximately 6:35 a.m. on September 6, 2025, along U.S. 31 near Miller Road in York Township.

Details of the Collision

Investigators said a 2009 Honda Civic was traveling southbound on U.S. 31 when a 2023 Jeep Renegade, heading north, crossed the center line and struck the Civic head-on.

The driver of the Civic, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Union County Coroner’s Office. The Jeep’s driver suffered serious injuries and was airlifted by MedFlight to Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus for treatment.

Sheriff Justice noted that the investigation remains ongoing, with crash reconstruction experts working to determine what caused the Jeep to veer left of center. Factors such as impairment, speed, or distractions have not yet been ruled out.

Emergency Response and Support

In addition to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, the Multi-County Crash Team is assisting in the investigation. Fire and EMS crews quickly responded to the scene, securing the area and helping coordinate the MedFlight transport.

Sheriff Justice expressed gratitude to all first responders and reminded drivers of the importance of staying attentive on the road.

Community Impact

The fatal crash is the fifth deadly accident in Union County in 2025, a statistic that has left community members concerned about safety on local roadways. Residents of York Township and surrounding areas said the stretch of U.S. 31 where the collision occurred is particularly busy in the early morning hours, as commuters make their way south toward Marysville and Columbus.

The Sheriff’s Office said it will release the names of the victims once proper notifications have been made to their families.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area around 6:30 a.m. Saturday to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office.

“This is a tragic incident, and our hearts go out to those impacted,” Justice said in a statement. “We remain committed to finding answers and ensuring the safety of everyone traveling through Union County.”

 

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our wonderful friend and colleague, Dale Williams, who left us on Tuesday evening. Dale’s absence has left a profound void in our hearts and within the walls of our center, where his warmth, wisdom, and humor touched so many lives.

A Valued Colleague and Mentor

Dale was more than just a co-worker—he was the heartbeat of our team. With his vast expertise and deep knowledge, he elevated the quality of our work and inspired those around him to strive for excellence. Yet it wasn’t only his professional skills that made him remarkable. Dale carried a natural gift for lifting the spirits of others, often lightening stressful days with his humor and positivity. His presence turned challenges into manageable tasks, and his guidance shaped not only projects but also people.

To work alongside Dale was to experience dedication, creativity, and a genuine love for what he did. He was never too busy to answer a question, offer advice, or simply check in on how others were doing. That rare combination of professionalism and compassion made him a treasured colleague and an irreplaceable member of our team.

A Family Man Above All

Beyond the workplace, Dale’s proudest role was that of a family man. He was a devoted husband to Rachel and a loving father to Harvey and Abbie, often speaking with joy about their accomplishments and milestones. Those who knew him could see how deeply he cherished his family, drawing strength and purpose from their bond.

As we grieve Dale’s passing, we also rally around his loved ones, standing with them in this most difficult time. Rachel, Harvey, and Abbie were the center of his world, and our community now commits to supporting them as they navigate this immense loss.

A Legacy of Kindness and Connection

Dale’s legacy will not be measured only by the projects he completed or the knowledge he shared, but by the countless lives he touched. Whether through a word of encouragement, a shared laugh, or a steady hand in times of uncertainty, Dale left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him.

His colleagues will remember him as a mentor and friend. His family will forever hold his love in their hearts. And our community will feel the echo of his presence long after today.

Honoring His Memory

As we reflect on Dale’s life, we are reminded to value the qualities he embodied—kindness, dedication, humor, and an unwavering love for family. Though we are heartbroken at his passing, we are grateful for the time we shared and the memories we carry forward.

We ask that you join us in holding Rachel, Harvey, and Abbie in your thoughts and prayers, offering them the strength and comfort they need during this unimaginable time.

Dale Williams will be profoundly missed, but his spirit and legacy will continue to guide and inspire us all.

 

ELAWARE COUNTY, Ohio — Olivia Kroft, 19, of Marysville; Breyden Floyd, 23, of North Lewisburg; and Michael Pinkerton, 19, of Dingess, West Virginia, were killed in a head-on crash in Thompson Township late Saturday night, while 70-year-old Roger Congrove of Richwood was seriously injured, according to the Delaware Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).

Troopers said the crash happened at approximately 10:10 p.m. on September 5, 2025, along Hoskins Road, when two vehicles collided in the middle of the roadway.

Sequence of Events

Investigators said Kroft was driving a 2017 Honda Civic eastbound when her vehicle collided head-on with a 2014 Dodge Dart driven by Congrove, who was traveling westbound.

At this time, it remains unclear which vehicle crossed the center line — or if both did — before the collision.

Kroft had two passengers in her car:

• Breyden Floyd, 23, of North Lewisburg – front passenger seat
• Michael Pinkerton, 19, of Dingess, West Virginia – back left seat

Tragically, all three occupants of the Honda Civic — Kroft, Floyd, and Pinkerton — suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene by the Delaware County Coroner’s Office.

Congrove survived the impact but sustained serious injuries. He was transported by emergency crews to the Ohio State University Main Hospital in Columbus for treatment.

Safety Equipment and Contributing Factors

OSHP confirmed that none of the occupants in Kroft’s vehicle were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Congrove, however, was properly restrained.

It is not yet known whether impairment or distractions contributed to the collision. Investigators are continuing to examine the crash site and vehicles involved.

Emergency Response

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by multiple agencies, including the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware County EMS, the Richwood Fire Department, the Delaware County Highway Department, and the Delaware County Coroner’s Office.

Troopers said accident reconstruction specialists will continue working to determine the exact cause of the crash, and results may take several weeks.

Community Impact

The fatal collision has deeply shaken both Union and Delaware Counties, as three young lives were lost in an instant. Friends and relatives of the victims gathered near the crash site overnight, leaving flowers and candles in remembrance.

Authorities urged drivers to wear seatbelts and exercise caution on rural roadways, stressing that even familiar roads can quickly become dangerous.

The investigation is ongoing, and OSHP is asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the Delaware Post.

 

PINCKNEYVILLE, Ill. — A deadly crash early Saturday morning has closed a stretch of Illinois 127/Illinois 13 south of Pinckneyville as authorities investigate.

According to the Illinois State Police (ISP), the collision happened at approximately 4:24 a.m. on Illinois 127 at Golum Church Road, just south of Pinckneyville. Officials confirmed that two vehicles were involved, and at least one person died as a result of the crash.

Troopers immediately shut down the roadway at Cedar Point Lane to allow for accident reconstruction teams to examine the scene. The closure is expected to last several hours as investigators collect evidence and clear debris.

Authorities have not released the identity of the victim, pending notification of family members, and no details have been provided regarding additional injuries or what may have led to the crash.

Motorists Urged to Find Alternate Routes

The road closure has caused significant traffic delays in the area, particularly for early morning commuters. ISP is urging drivers to use alternate routes until the roadway reopens. Local detours have been set up, but officials caution that traffic could remain congested until the investigation is complete.

Investigation Ongoing

Accident reconstruction specialists are focusing on the sequence of events that led to the fatal collision. Troopers are looking into whether speed, road conditions, or driver impairment played any role.

Residents in the area said crashes along that portion of Illinois 127 are not uncommon due to heavy truck traffic and limited visibility during early morning hours.

The Illinois State Police have not given an estimate for when the highway will reopen but said updates will be provided as soon as new information becomes available.

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact Illinois State Police District 13 with information.

 

With heavy hearts, we remember the lives of 39-year-old Nicholas Kupec of Waterford and 22-year-old Isabella Butzgy of Montville, who were tragically killed in separate crashes on Interstate 95 in Westbrook Friday morning.

The incidents, which scattered debris across multiple lanes and shut down parts of the busy highway for hours, brought traffic to a standstill and sent shockwaves through the community. But beyond the traffic delays and flashing emergency lights lies the heartbreaking truth: two lives full of promise, love, and connection were taken far too soon.

Nicholas Kupec, 39, was known for his hard work, loyalty, and devotion to those closest to him. Friends and family describe him as someone who lived with quiet strength and determination, always striving to provide for and protect the people he loved. His sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues.

Isabella Butzgy, just 22 years old, was at the very beginning of her adult life. She was remembered for her energy, warmth, and kind spirit — a young woman with dreams still unfolding. To those who knew her best, Isabella embodied joy and resilience, with a future that held so much possibility. Losing her at such a young age is a tragedy beyond measure.

State police continue to investigate the crashes, but for those grieving, the focus remains on cherishing the memories and legacies that Nicholas and Isabella leave behind. Each represented more than just a name in a report; they were loved ones, friends, and members of the community whose presence will be deeply missed.

As the Westbrook community reflects on this devastating morning, many are holding the Kupec and Butzgy families in their thoughts and prayers. Support and compassion are pouring out for those enduring unimaginable loss, a reminder that in moments of tragedy, love and unity help carry us forward.

Though Nicholas and Isabella’s journeys ended far too soon, their lives will be remembered for the impact they had on the people around them. Their spirits live on in the memories shared, the laughter recalled, and the love that will never fade.

In loving memory of Nicholas Kupec and Isabella Butzgy — gone too soon, but never forgotten.

 

With profound sadness, we share the news of the tragic passing of 18-year-old Kalielah Davis, whose life was cut short late Friday night in Columbus. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting that claimed her life, but for those who knew Kalielah, she will be remembered not for the tragedy of her passing, but for the light she brought to those around her.

Kalielah was a vibrant young woman with a bright future ahead of her. At just 18, she carried herself with determination and hope, always striving to reach her goals while uplifting those closest to her. Family and friends describe her as kind, full of laughter, and endlessly supportive, someone who made others feel seen and valued.

Her loss is deeply felt not only by her loved ones but also by the wider Columbus community. She leaves behind memories of joy, love, and promise — memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

As the investigation into her passing continues, her family asks for privacy and prayers during this difficult time. They also ask that Kalielah be remembered for her spirit, her dreams, and the love she shared, not the violence that took her away too soon.

Kalielah’s story is one of a young life filled with potential, gone far too soon. She will be remembered as a daughter, a friend, and a beautiful soul whose light will never fade.

Rest in peace, Kalielah. You will never be forgotten.

 

CHERRY POINT, N.C. — September 5, 2025 — The U.S. Marine Corps is mourning the loss of Lance Corporal Branden Ingram, who was found deceased Friday evening at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point in eastern North Carolina.

Base officials confirmed Ingram’s death late Friday, expressing sorrow and extending condolences to his family, friends, and fellow Marines. “The loss of one of our own is felt deeply across the Marine Corps community,” said a spokesperson for MCAS Cherry Point. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Lance Corporal Ingram’s loved ones during this difficult time.”

Details surrounding the circumstances of his death have not yet been released. Officials stated that there is no immediate threat to the base or surrounding community and that the incident remains under investigation. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) has taken the lead in the inquiry, which is standard procedure for deaths occurring on military installations.

Lance Corporal Ingram had been stationed at Cherry Point as part of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, one of the Marine Corps’ largest aviation units. Known among his peers as hardworking and dedicated, Ingram was remembered as a Marine who took pride in his service and demonstrated strong commitment to his unit.

MCAS Cherry Point leadership said grief counseling and support services are being made available to Marines and civilian personnel on base. “We are a family,” the statement read. “In times of tragedy, we stand together to honor the life of our Marine and provide strength and support to one another.”

Located near Havelock, North Carolina, Cherry Point serves as a major hub for Marine Corps aviation operations and has a longstanding history of service to the nation. News of Ingram’s passing has touched many within the military community, where the loss of a young Marine is always felt profoundly.

Funeral arrangements for Lance Corporal Branden Ingram are pending and will be announced by his family. Military honors are expected as part of the services.

As investigations continue, one thing remains clear: the Marine Corps community has lost a brother-in-arms, and his memory will endure in the hearts of those who served beside him.

 

Muncie, Indiana – September 6, 2025 — Overnight, the Muncie Police Department (MPD) and Muncie Fire/EMS responded to multiple shooting incidents across the city, prompting a large-scale emergency response and ongoing investigations into what authorities are calling a “deeply concerning series of events.”

According to officials, several individuals were injured in the separate shootings. All victims are currently receiving medical care, though the extent of their injuries has not yet been publicly released. Police have not confirmed whether the shootings are connected or represent unrelated acts of violence.

In a statement released early this morning, MPD expressed both gratitude and determination. “We are grateful for our first responders and the surrounding agencies who assisted,” the department said. “The safety of our community is our top priority.”

The incidents triggered a significant response, with Muncie officers joined by surrounding law enforcement agencies to secure multiple crime scenes, gather evidence, and canvass for witnesses. Detectives worked through the night interviewing community members, reviewing surveillance footage, and processing forensic evidence.

Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid the investigations. “If you have information that may help, please contact MPD Detectives at 765-747-4867,” the department said, emphasizing that even the smallest tip could prove crucial in piecing together the events.

The overnight violence has left many residents shaken, raising concerns about public safety and the recent uptick in gun-related incidents in the area. Community leaders are calling for cooperation between law enforcement and residents to bring those responsible to justice and to prevent further violence.

While no arrests have been announced at this time, police say the investigations remain active and updates will be provided as more details emerge.

For now, city officials are urging calm and cooperation, highlighting the strength of the Muncie community in difficult times. “We stand together with the victims, their families, and all who have been affected,” the statement read. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and peace of our neighborhoods.”

 

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of Johnathan Anderson, who left us far too soon on September 4, 2025, at the age of 34.

John was a first-year apprentice with Pipefitter’s Local 597 in Chicago, Illinois, where he was known for his strong work ethic, ambition, and dedication to his trade. From the moment he joined, John carried himself with determination and pride, eager to learn and grow. He wanted nothing more than to become an excellent service technician, a goal that reflected both his personal drive and his deep respect for the skilled trades.

Those who had the privilege of working alongside John describe him as a motivated and uplifting presence, someone who not only pushed himself but also inspired those around him. He seized every opportunity to better himself, approaching each task with focus and humility.

John had been eagerly looking forward to attending classes this fall, excited to expand his knowledge and sharpen his skills. His enthusiasm for the trade was contagious, and he spoke often about how proud he was to be part of the Pipefitter’s LU 597 family.

Conversations with his family have revealed just how much John valued his work. Coming from a family of tradesmen, he understood the meaning of hard work, respect, and craftsmanship. He poured immense effort into his role, not only to honor his own goals but also to carry forward the legacy of those who came before him.

To lose such a bright and promising individual so suddenly is absolutely heartbreaking. John’s passing is not only a devastating loss for his family, friends, and colleagues, but also for the entire community that had begun to see his potential unfold.

Johnathan Anderson will be remembered as a man of drive, integrity, and kindness — someone who loved his work, cherished his family, and sought every day to become better than he was the day before.

He leaves behind family, friends, and brothers and sisters of the trade who will carry forward his memory with pride. Though his time with us was short, John’s spirit and determination will never be forgotten.

 

WESTBROOK, Conn. — Two people, 39-year-old Nicholas Kupec of Waterford and 22-year-old Isabella Butzgy of Montville, were killed in separate crashes on Interstate 95 in Westbrook Friday morning, according to state police. The incidents shut down parts of the highway, scattered debris across multiple lanes, and caused delays that lasted well into the afternoon.

First Crash: Tractor-Trailer Loses Load of Plywood

The first crash happened at approximately 7:42 a.m. on I-95 South near Exit 64, when a tractor-trailer carrying plywood overturned, spilling its load across both sides of the highway. State police said the accident caused widespread disruption as large sheets of plywood littered travel lanes in both directions.

Kupec suffered serious injuries in the crash. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

Three other individuals were also injured and taken to the hospital for treatment, though their conditions have not been publicly released.

Cleanup crews worked for hours to clear the roadway of plywood and debris. Traffic in the area was heavily impacted during the morning rush, with backups stretching several miles in both directions.

Second Crash: Fatal Collision Near Exit 65

Just under two hours later, at 9:27 a.m., state police were called to another major crash, this time involving a car and a tractor-trailer on I-95 South near Exit 65.

Troopers confirmed that Butzgy was killed in the collision. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Additional injuries were reported, but details remain limited as investigators continue to examine the cause of the crash.

Bridge Damage and Road Closures

The force of the second crash caused structural damage to the Route 145 overpass in Westbrook, prompting the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) to temporarily close the bridge between Glenwood Road and North High Street.

By Friday evening, the overpass had reopened after inspections, with DOT officials confirming the bridge is safe for travel in the short term, though repairs will be required in the near future.

Investigation Ongoing

Both crashes remain under investigation by the Connecticut State Police. Troopers are urging anyone who may have witnessed either crash, or who has dash camera footage, to contact Troop F at 860-399-2100.

The double tragedies have left families in Waterford and Montville grieving as investigators work to determine what led to two deadly incidents just hours apart on the same stretch of highway.