Category: Uncategorized

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, OH — The Holmes County community is mourning the tragic and unexpected death of Travis D. Jones, 57, of Danville, who was killed in a single-vehicle crash on Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025, in Washington Township. The accident occurred at approximately 10:27 a.m. on State Route 39, just east of Township Road 455.

According to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, Jones was driving a 2009 Ford F-250 Super Duty pickup truck towing a 2019 Goose Neck Trailer, having recently picked up a load from a business in the Loudenville Industrial Park. Authorities believe Jones failed to stop at the intersection with State Route 39 while traveling southbound on Bakes Avenue. His truck passed through the intersection, veered off the road, crossed a yard, and struck a creek embankment.

Emergency responders from Western Holmes EMS arrived on the scene and pronounced Jones dead upon arrival. Investigators confirmed that he was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

The Holmes County Coroner’s Office has ordered an autopsy to help determine if a medical condition or impairment may have contributed to the crash. The exact cause of the incident remains unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.

Authorities noted that Jones was on a routine work-related trip, and no other passengers were in the vehicle. While his trailer had been loaded just prior to the crash, it remains unclear whether the added weight played a role in the collision.

In a public statement, the Sheriff’s Office reminded all drivers of the critical importance of obeying traffic signs and wearing seat belts, both of which significantly reduce the risk of fatal accidents.

The crash underscores the inherent dangers of rural intersections, where limited visibility and missed stop signs are frequent hazards. Law enforcement has asked that any witnesses or individuals with information about the incident contact the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office as they continue to gather details.

The Danville community is reeling from this sudden loss. Jones was known as a hardworking and dependable member of the area, and news of his passing has left family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and additional information becomes available.

Tagged: Death | Obituary | Holmes County | Travis D. Jones

BATON ROUGE, La. — The Baton Rouge community is mourning the tragic loss of 22-year-old Melique Etienne, who was fatally shot Tuesday evening in what police believe was a robbery attempt.

According to the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD), officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 3700 block of Cathedral Drive, near Wyandotte Street, shortly before 6:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Etienne suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts from emergency responders, Etienne was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.

Preliminary findings suggest that Etienne was the victim of a targeted attempted robbery. Several individuals were detained at the scene for questioning, though as of Wednesday morning, no formal arrests have been made. The investigation remains active, with detectives working to identify all parties involved and determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.

BRPD Chief T.J. Morse acknowledged the gravity of the situation and assured the public that the department is committed to seeking justice for Melique Etienne and his grieving family.

“This was a senseless act of violence,” Morse said. “We are pursuing every lead to hold those responsible accountable.”

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this incident to contact the BRPD Violent Crimes Unit or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-STOP (7867).

As the investigation continues, Etienne’s loved ones and the greater Baton Rouge community are left to grapple with the pain of another young life cut short by violence.

COLLETTSVILLE, N.C. — The Caldwell County community is grappling with sorrow and unanswered questions following the tragic discovery of a body in the Collettsville area on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Kevin H. Bean, has launched a death investigation after the remains of 37-year-old Casey Shaun Wilcox, of Hudson, were found near water in a wooded area off Playmore Beach Road.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, a local resident assessing hurricane damage in the area stumbled upon the deceased and immediately notified authorities. Emergency personnel from Collettsville Fire and Rescue responded promptly, working diligently to safely recover Wilcox’s body from the water.

As of now, the cause of death remains undetermined, and investigators are actively working to piece together the events leading up to Wilcox’s death. No signs of foul play have been publicly confirmed or ruled out, and officials have withheld further information pending the results of an autopsy and continued investigative efforts.

In a statement, Sheriff Bean extended his sympathies:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mr. Wilcox during this difficult time. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine what happened.”

The somber discovery has left many in the Hudson and Collettsville communities grieving, especially those who knew Wilcox personally. Friends described him as quiet and kind, with a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with relevant information to come forward as they work to bring clarity and closure to Wilcox’s loved ones.

The investigation remains active, and further updates will be shared as details emerge.

Huntington, West Virginia — The community of Huntington is heartbroken following the tragic death of 6-year-old Julian Kay, who drowned during a daycare field trip on Monday, July 21, 2025.

According to officials, the incident occurred while Julian was participating in an outing organized by his daycare center. At some point during the trip, Julian was found unresponsive in the water. Despite immediate efforts by caregivers and first responders to revive him, he was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

Tragically, Julian was later pronounced brain dead, and his family made the unimaginable decision to say goodbye.

As news of the incident spread, an outpouring of grief and sympathy has filled the Huntington community. Residents have placed flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes outside the daycare as a memorial to honor Julian’s young life.

Julian is being remembered as a bright, joyful child with a contagious laugh, a big heart, and an unshakable love for dinosaurs and superheroes. His loss has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and those who knew him.

Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the field trip and the supervision protocols in place at the time of the drowning. Parents and community members are demanding answers and accountability, calling for improved safety measures to prevent another tragedy.

In the wake of this devastating loss, local faith leaders and counselors have made themselves available to support grieving families and children coping with the heartbreaking news.

A candlelight vigil is being planned in Julian’s memory, and a GoFundMe page has been established to assist his family with funeral expenses.

As Huntington mourns, the community stands united in grief and in honoring the memory of a little boy gone far too soon. Rest in peace, sweet Julian.

Deschutes County, OR – A devastating accident at Dillon Falls has claimed the lives of two women and left a third person missing, authorities confirmed this week. The victims have been identified as 40-year-old Amanda Lloyd of Rockwall, Texas, and 33-year-old Lindsay Bashan of Parkland, Florida.

The tragedy unfolded on Saturday afternoon, July 19, 2025, when a group of six individuals floated down the Deschutes River on interconnected inner tubes. The group was unaware, or unable to react in time, as they approached the dangerous drop at Dillon Falls — a notorious section of the river roughly 10 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon, known for its 15-foot drop, powerful whitewater rapids, jagged rocks, and underwater debris.

As the group neared the falls, three individuals managed to escape the rushing current and swam to safety. Tragically, Amanda Lloyd, Lindsay Bashan, and one other person were swept over the falls.

Amanda Lloyd was pronounced dead at the scene, while Lindsay Bashan’s body was recovered two days later, on Monday. As of Tuesday, the third victim remains missing and is presumed dead, according to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.

Search efforts for the missing person have been intensive and ongoing, utilizing aerial surveillance, underwater cameras, divers, and specially trained search dogs. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jason Carr acknowledged the “emotional and physical toll” on rescue personnel and expressed heartfelt sympathy to the grieving families. “We are doing everything possible to bring answers to the loved ones still waiting,” Carr said.

The three survivors were treated for minor injuries, including scrapes and bruises, and transported to a hospital as a precaution. Their identities have not been released to protect their privacy.

Officials emphasized that the area surrounding Dillon Falls is clearly marked with warning signs. Most rivergoers exit the water at a designated day-use area before reaching the falls. Sadly, this group either missed the warning or was unable to get out in time.

The Deschutes River is a popular summer destination for tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. However, the fatal incident is a somber reminder of the river’s hidden dangers and the critical importance of water safety.

The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the circumstances of the accident and urges visitors to always respect posted warnings and plan ahead when engaging in recreational water activities.

As the community mourns the loss of Amanda Lloyd and Lindsay Bashan, thoughts and prayers remain with the missing individual’s family — and with the survivors, forever impacted by the harrowing experience.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Metro Nashville Police Department has identified the woman tragically killed in a hit-and-run on Interstate 40 early Tuesday morning as 42-year-old Melena Sanderson, a resident of Nashville.

The heartbreaking incident occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m. on I-40 West near Old Hickory Boulevard, when Sanderson exited a gray SUV that had pulled over on the right shoulder of the interstate. For reasons still under investigation, she walked into the lanes of traffic, where she was struck by multiple passing vehicles.

The first vehicle to hit her, a burgundy sedan, fled the scene immediately after the collision. Additional vehicles struck Sanderson afterward, though only one driver, operating a Fiat, remained on scene to speak with police and offer information.

Compounding the tragedy, the driver of the gray SUV that Sanderson had exited also left the scene without offering assistance, police said. Detectives are now working diligently to identify and locate both the burgundy sedan and the gray SUV, as well as any other motorists who may have been involved and failed to remain at the scene.

Investigators believe the burgundy sedan likely sustained significant front-end, windshield, and possibly roof damage and may currently be undergoing repairs or alterations. Authorities are urging body shop owners and the public to be alert for vehicles matching that description.

This incident has reignited public concern over the growing number of fatal pedestrian crashes and hit-and-run cases, particularly on high-speed roadways at night. Police stressed the legal and moral obligation of all drivers to stop and render aid after a collision, emphasizing that fleeing the scene only deepens the trauma and the potential consequences.

Officials have not yet released details about what prompted Sanderson to leave the vehicle or whether she was alone. It also remains unclear if there was a breakdown, argument, or other event that led to her walking into traffic.

Sanderson’s loved ones have not yet issued a public statement, but the community mourns her sudden and tragic loss. Friends and family are left with unanswered questions, and investigators continue to seek clarity and justice.

Anyone with information—particularly those who may have witnessed the crash, saw the vehicles involved, or know individuals connected to the case—is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and authorities say even minor details could prove crucial.

The investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives work to bring closure to Sanderson’s family and accountability to those responsible for this senseless loss.

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) has identified Craig Handzel, a resident of Pitt County, as the armed individual who was fatally shot by a Cumberland County Sheriff’s deputy on Sunday night, following a tense standoff in a residential neighborhood near Claude Lee Road, close to the Fayetteville Regional Airport.

The incident began when Handzel reportedly started a small brush fire in a field. Firefighters from the Pearce’s Mill Fire Department quickly responded and extinguished the flames. However, upon arrival, they observed that Handzel was armed with a handgun and immediately called for law enforcement backup.

As deputies arrived on the scene and located Handzel lying in a yard on Catherine Drive, he was seen holding a firearm to his chest. Despite repeated verbal commands to drop the weapon, Handzel refused to comply, according to officials. The situation escalated, resulting in Deputy J.C. Murray firing his weapon, striking and killing Handzel. Deputy Murray, who has been with the sheriff’s office since June 2023, was the only officer to discharge a weapon during the confrontation.

Eyewitnesses recounted the disturbing sequence of events. Isaac Murphy, a neighbor, said he spotted Handzel with a gun but chose not to approach for safety. Andrea Wirts, visiting her mother nearby, initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks, estimating six to eight shots were fired.

The SBI has since launched a formal investigation into the use of deadly force. In accordance with department policy, four deputies have been placed on administrative leave, including Deputy Murray. The identities of the other deputies have not been released, and investigators have not confirmed how many total shots were fired.

While much about Handzel’s motives remain unclear, social media posts suggest he was connected to a motorcycle group that supports military personnel and veterans in eastern North Carolina. His ties to the veteran community have been acknowledged, though no additional background information has been made public.

The Handzel family has declined to comment at this time. The investigation by the SBI is ongoing, with no timeline given for the release of further findings. Community members and officials alike await answers, as the tragic incident raises questions about mental health, public safety, and use of force in high-stakes encounters.

MILWAUKEE, WI — The Milwaukee community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Nick, affectionately known as “Too Shiesty,” a 25-year-old man who was fatally shot in the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 23, 2025.

The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. near 84th Street and Grantosa Drive on the city’s northwest side. First responders arrived to find Nick suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in on social media from friends, loved ones, and community members who knew Nick as a charismatic and loyal soul with a vibrant presence.

“Too Shiesty was more than just a nickname,” one friend shared online. “He had a way of lighting up every room. He was always there for his people.”

Milwaukee Police have not yet made any arrests and say the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

This senseless act of violence has left a deep void in the hearts of those who loved Nick and a renewed plea for peace across Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Milwaukee Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

The community of Bethlehem, North Carolina, is grieving the tragic loss of Jordan Daughaday, who passed away on July 20 following a devastating motorcycle accident. Jordan was a dedicated husband, a loving father of two daughters, and a valued member of the local trades community.

Jordan was the sole provider for his family, a role he embraced with pride and unwavering commitment. His professional journey reflected both his skill and passion for craftsmanship. Most recently, he worked at Sipple’s Speed & Performance, LLC (since January 2023), where he brought precision, experience, and a love for performance engineering to every project.

His earlier roles included:

• Machine Builder at Lucky Ironz Custom Tattoo Machines (2012–2014)
• Welder and Manufacturing Technician at JMS Southeast (September 2011 – January 2023) in Statesville, NC, where he was deeply involved in welding, manufacturing, and quality control.

A graduate of Perry Hall High School, Jordan was known not only for his technical abilities but for the kindness, humor, and loyalty he showed to everyone around him.

He leaves behind his beloved wife and two young daughters, whose lives were his greatest source of pride and joy. His sudden passing has left a deep void in the lives of all who knew him—family, friends, coworkers, and the broader Bethlehem and Statesville communities.

Jordan Daughaday will be remembered for his tireless work ethic, generous heart, and the love he gave to his family. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, both professionally and personally.

Rest in peace, Jordan. You will be deeply missed.

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Tristan Drake “Tink” Cox, 19, of Bagley, who departed this life far too soon on July 20, 2025.

Tristan was a proud graduate of Corner High School, Class of 2025, and earned a certificate in Welding from the Academy of Arts—a reflection of his dedication, determination, and love for skilled craftsmanship. He had a vibrant spirit, a quick smile, and a heart that deeply touched everyone who knew him.

Among the many things Tristan loved, few compared to the joy he found in driving his white Chevy Silverado to truck meets. It was more than a vehicle—it was a symbol of his personality: bold, dependable, and full of life. He also found peace in fishing, and excitement in the growing sport of pickleball, hobbies he shared with both friends and family.

Tristan was preceded in death by his beloved father, Jamey Cox; grandfather, Charles Cox; grandmother, Bonnie Hogland; his Papa, Joe Cox; and great-grandfathers, Gerald Hogland and William Clayton.

He is lovingly survived by:

• His devoted mother, Tiffany Cox, and stepfather, Jonathan Thornell
• His sister, Riley Cox (Cade), and brother, Dillion Payne
• Grandparents, Kenneth and Kathy Hogland, and Denise Cox
• Great-grandmother, Betty Clayton
• A large circle of extended family, classmates, and many cherished friends

The family would especially like to thank Tristan’s friends and classmates, whose love, laughter, and loyalty meant the world to him. Your presence in his life brought him endless joy.

Funeral service details will be announced on Tuesday.

Though Tristan’s time here was brief, his impact was lasting. His warmth, humor, and generous soul will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know and love him.

Rest in peace, Tink. You were one of a kind, and you will never be forgotten.