Author: Admin

The Indianapolis community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Amya Elizabeth Haas, a 22-year-old lifeguard, swim instructor, artist, and aspiring pharmacy technician, who tragically drowned in Eagle Creek Reservoir on July 24, 2025.

According to authorities, Amya dove from a sailboat and never resurfaced. Despite hours of intensive searching by multiple water rescue agencies, her body was recovered later that night. Her sudden passing has left her family and loved ones devastated and searching for answers.

“It’s so ironic,” said her mother, Tanya Haas, in an emotional interview with IndyStar. “She spent her summer teaching others how to be safe in the water—working as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Of all the ways this could have happened…”

Amya was a vibrant, multifaceted young woman. A gifted artist, she had recently launched her own online art store, channeling her emotions and creativity into paintings that helped calm and center her. “It calmed her spirit,” her mother shared. “Art was her outlet.”

She was also preparing for a new chapter in her life, training to become a pharmacy technician, while continuing to explore new ways to share and grow her artistic talent. Her entrepreneurial spirit and creative drive were matched only by her fierce loyalty and warm, outgoing personality.

Adopted at age four along with her younger brother, Amya found a loving home with Tanya and David Haas, her adoptive parents. Her biological mother—who struggled with mental health—was the adopted sister of David. Amya faced challenges of her own, but always carried deep love for her family.

“Even when she was having a hard time as an adult,” Tanya recalled, “she’d curl up in my lap and ask me to hold her for a while.”

Her loss has left a painful void in the lives of her siblings, parents, and the many others who were touched by her compassion, creativity, and courage.

Amya’s story is not only one of sorrow, but also a powerful reminder: even the most experienced swimmers are not immune to the unpredictable dangers of open water. Her death echoes a growing call for stronger public awareness around water safety—for everyone, not just beginners.

As we remember Amya Elizabeth Haas, let us honor her spirit by continuing the work she loved: protecting others, pursuing creativity, and showing love—especially in the hardest moments.

She will be deeply missed.
She will be forever remembered.

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Randolph Hearst, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a cherished member of the esteemed Hearst family. Randolph departed this life peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and enduring wisdom that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A man of integrity, generosity, and quiet dignity, Randolph was the foundation upon which his family stood. His love was unwavering, his presence reassuring, and his impact immeasurable. He was a steady guiding light—always there with kind words, thoughtful advice, or simply a listening ear. Whether in moments of celebration or sorrow, he brought calm, perspective, and compassion.

To his family, Randolph was more than a patriarch—he was a source of inspiration, a storyteller, a teacher, and a friend. To his friends and community, he was a man who led by example, treated others with respect, and believed in the power of kindness.

Though his physical presence is no longer with us, Randolph’s spirit will live on in the lives he touched and the love he so freely gave. As we grieve this profound loss, we also celebrate a life well lived—a life that shaped generations and enriched every soul it encountered.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Hearst family and all who held Randolph dear. May his memory be a blessing and may we honor his legacy by living with the same grace and love he so beautifully embodied.

Rest in peace, Randolph Hearst. You will be missed beyond words and remembered beyond measure.

GATES, N.Y. — Authorities have identified the victim in Thursday’s fatal shooting at the Amazon fulfillment center in Gates as 24-year-old Markis Ortiz-Harris, a resident of Rochester. According to the Gates Police Department, Ortiz-Harris was fatally shot while sitting in his vehicle outside the facility, waiting for his shift to begin.

The tragic incident unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, drawing a heavy police and emergency response to the area. News10NBC’s Declan Stablow, reporting from the scene, spoke with local residents who expressed shock and concern over the violence.

One witness, Charles Parsons, described the large police presence and the visible disruption to the facility’s normal operations. “I saw several police pull into the Amazon facility. I also heard sirens, seeing other EMS responders turn into the Amazon facility,” Parsons said. “For several hours, they were staging employees in a field across the street from Amazon and they weren’t allowed into the facility, so that’s how I knew it was something serious.”

While the Gates Police have emphasized that the shooting appears to be a targeted act, they confirmed that the suspect is still at large. There is no indication that the shooter was affiliated with or employed by Amazon.

Amazon later clarified that while employees at the scene did not speak with media outlets, doing so is not restricted by company policy. The facility has since resumed operations, though the incident has left employees and community members understandably shaken.

“This kind of violence is deeply troubling,” Parsons added. “I just hope people would stop resorting to gun violence as a way to resolve their issues. There are more civil ways to act. This isn’t the Wild Wild West.”

Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The identity of the suspect has not yet been released, and no arrests have been made.

As the investigation continues, the death of Markis Ortiz-Harris has sparked renewed concerns about safety in and around workplaces, and the devastating impact of gun violence on communities. The thoughts of many are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

YEMASSEE, S.C. – A devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 has claimed the lives of a father and son from Florida, leaving a community in mourning and authorities continuing a complex investigation.

William Britt, 68, and his son Patrick Britt, 30, both of Jacksonville, Florida, were tragically killed in the massive pileup that occurred around 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday, just north of the Yemassee town limits. According to Colleton County Coroner Richard Harvey, both men were traveling in the same southbound vehicle and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash involved a total of 13 vehicles, including cars, trucks, and commercial vehicles, according to Cpl. Nick Pye of the South Carolina Highway Patrol. First responders described a chaotic scene, as four people were trapped inside mangled vehicles, including the Britts, and required extrication by emergency crews.

In all, more than two dozen individuals were treated at the scene, and approximately 10 people were transported to local hospitals for further care. The extent of the injuries among survivors has not yet been released.

The incident brought traffic to a complete standstill, with all southbound lanes of I-95 closed until around 3 a.m. Wednesday. Emergency officials said the wreck occurred amid a severe thunderstorm that brought near-zero visibility to the area, complicating both driving conditions and the emergency response. Due to the dangerous weather, medical helicopters were unable to reach the scene.

The crash is under active investigation by multiple agencies, including the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), South Carolina State Transport Police, and the S.C. Department of Public Safety’s Multi-Disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT), which specializes in thorough accident reconstructions and in-depth traffic collision analysis.

As the investigation continues, the loss of William and Patrick Britt is being felt deeply by the Jacksonville community and beyond. Their sudden passing in this tragic accident is a reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly lives can change on the road.

Friends, loved ones, and community members are invited to remember William and Patrick for their bond, their love for one another, and the lives they lived. Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.

GREENVILLE, N.C. — A tragic incident has claimed the life of 17-year-old Kiari Cunningham, who died Wednesday following an apparent accidental shooting inside a Greenville apartment.

At approximately 1:00 p.m. on July 23, 2025, officers with the Greenville Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at an apartment located at 1115-H Grovemont Drive. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Kiari suffering from a gunshot wound.

Emergency medical personnel administered life-saving aid at the scene before transporting her to ECU Health Medical Center. Despite efforts to save her, Kiari later succumbed to her injuries.

Preliminary findings suggest the shooting was accidental and involved her 17-year-old boyfriend, who was present at the time of the incident. According to authorities, he has been fully cooperative with investigators and was taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation.

As of now, no formal charges have been filed, and the case remains active. Detectives are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the full context and circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The Greenville Police Department is urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to the department or anonymously through Pitt-Greenville Crime Stoppers.

This heartbreaking loss has deeply shaken the community, and officials are encouraging families to have ongoing conversations about gun safety and responsible firearm handling—especially among youth.

More updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, the Rocky Mount community mourns the tragic and senseless loss of Jaime De La Fuente, 58, who was taken from us far too soon on the evening of July 24, 2025. Jaime was a devoted father, a respected community member, and a man whose presence brought warmth, strength, and kindness to those around him.

Jaime’s life was marked by quiet integrity, deep love for his family, and a steadfast support of those he cared about. He was the proud father of a Rocky Mount Police Officer—a role that reflected the values of service, courage, and commitment he held dear.

His sudden passing has left a void that can never truly be filled. As the community reels from this heartbreaking act of violence, we extend our deepest condolences to Jaime’s family, friends, and especially his son, a dedicated member of the Rocky Mount Police Department.

Let us honor Jaime’s memory by standing together in compassion, lifting up his loved ones, and refusing to let this tragedy define the legacy of a man who gave so much to those he loved. In the face of heartbreak, may we find healing in unity, remembrance, and the enduring impact of a life well lived.

Rest in peace, Jaime De La Fuente. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Rocky Mount, N.C — The Rocky Mount Police Department has released new details regarding a tragic shooting that occurred earlier this week in Sunset Park.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025, officers responded to a shots-fired call at 550 N. Taylor Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 58-year-old Jaime De La Fuente inside a vehicle, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to UNC Nash Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Calvin Conyers, fled the scene on foot and made his way to Chico’s Mexican Restaurant located at 1701 Sunset Avenue. There, Conyers attempted to carjack a vehicle occupied by an adult woman and a child. During the attempted carjacking, Conyers turned the gun on himself, sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He remains in critical condition at a local medical facility.

Authorities also identified a fourth victim during the course of the investigation. This individual sustained a non-life-threatening injury and was treated and released by EMS at the scene.

As a result of the ongoing investigation, Conyers is facing multiple criminal charges, including:

• First Degree Murder
• Attempted First Degree Murder
• Two Counts of Second Degree Kidnapping

The Rocky Mount Police Department confirmed that Jaime De La Fuente was the father of a Rocky Mount Police Officer. The department and city officials extend their deepest condolences to the family and are asking the public to support the grieving family and the RMPD community during this difficult time.

Police emphasized that this was an isolated incident and is not connected to the separate shooting that occurred in the 1400 block of Russell Street.

Anyone with information about either incident is urged to contact the Rocky Mount Police Department at 252-972-1411. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Tip411 by texting “RMPD” and your message to 847411.

The investigation remains active, and additional updates will be shared as they become available.

Austin J. Quarantillo, 37, of Lewiston, NY, passed away unexpectedly on July 21, 2025 at his residence due to natural causes.  Born in Lewiston, NY, he was the beloved son of Robert ‘Bob’ M. Quarantillo and Tracy J. Gillick.

Austin graduated from Lewiston-Porter High School, attended Niagara County Community College and Buffalo State College, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.  He met the love of his life, Sarah A. Nienburg, in 2010 and they married on July 7, 2017 in Gasport, NY.  Austin worked for 14 years in spine and biologics surgical sales, and was currently employed by Apex Medical in Buffalo, NY.  He also owned and operated his own sales company, Q Med Supply, an endeavor that brought him great pride and satisfaction.

An avid hockey player, Austin loved playing at Niagara University and Hyde Park, where he was a highly respected player in Men’s Leagues and adored by all his teammates.  Austin loved exercising and was a sports enthusiast. He was a devoted Sabres, Bills, and Bandits fan, and proudly supported his brother Billy Q, who competes in the UFC.  He was the family grill master and enjoyed cooking for others. Most of all, he was a devoted father and looked forward to being with his three small children.

Austin will be remembered for his gentle, loving nature, as well as for his sense of humor, kindness and humility.  He was thoughtful and generous to a fault.  Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family, especially his children, who saw his sweet and caring nature each moment.  He was a devoted father, husband, son, brother, nephew, uncle and friend.  Simply put, he made you a better person just by knowing him.

In addition to his parents and his wife of 8 years, Austin is survived by his cherished children, Violet Elaine (age 4), Austin Westley (age 2), and Declan Michael (3 months); his siblings, Bobby (Laura) Quarantillo, Jim (Annie) Quarantillo, Kristen Quarantillo, and Billy (Brianna) Quarantillo; his aunts and uncles, Sue (Dr. Michael) Pell, Bill (Cyd Bennett) Quarantillo, and Pam (True Hewitt) Gillick; his in-laws, Bud and Tammy Nienburg, Gus (Balon) Nienburg, Rick (Leanne) Primerano, and Ron (Crystal) Primerano; his nieces and nephews whom he adored, James, Lucy, Rosie, Will, Theo, Alexa, Ronnie, Brayden, Kylie, Brody, Jayden, Avery, Annalise, Joey, Riccardo, and Carmie, as well as by many close cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 28 from 4 – 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304.  Private funeral services will be held for Austin’s family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Lewiston Volunteer Fire Company Number 2, 1705 Saunders Settlement Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.

BESSEMER, Ala. — Authorities are investigating the tragic death of a 50-year-old woman who was found fatally mauled by dogs in an overgrown vacant lot in Bessemer.

On Thursday morning, police responded to a call just before 7 a.m. regarding a possible death in the 100 block of Martin Street near Norwood Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered Delores Mukerson Musgrove of Adger lying in the grass. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The coroner confirmed that Musgrove had been attacked by multiple dogs. In response, animal control officers removed several dogs from the area. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine the ownership of the dogs involved.

Bessemer police continue to seek information and urge anyone with details to come forward as they piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

BILLINGS — Authorities have identified Abbigayle Sally Lou Crawford, a 20-year-old Billings resident, as the victim of a deadly single-vehicle crash on Skyway Drive. The Yellowstone County Coroner’s Office confirmed on Friday that Crawford died from multiple blunt force trauma injuries sustained in the accident, which occurred late Wednesday. Her death has been officially ruled an accident.

Billings police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. So far, they have revealed that two people were involved but have not released any details about the other occupant or whether Crawford was driving at the time. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Due to the severity of the incident, authorities closed Skyway Drive for approximately 12 hours to conduct a thorough investigation at the scene.

The community mourns the loss of Abbigayle Crawford, and officials urge anyone with information related to the crash to come forward.