Category: Uncategorized

Bernice, LA — A shocking and deeply tragic incident has shaken the quiet town of Bernice after a father was found dead and his son arrested following a deadly hatchet attack.

On the morning of Saturday, July 12, 2025, deputies with the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office (UPSO) responded to a distressing call reporting a possible stabbing at the Bernice Villa Apartments, located at 115 W. 4th Street. Upon entering the residence, authorities discovered the lifeless body of 71-year-old Delmer Watts Sr., who had suffered fatal injuries consistent with a violent assault.

The UPSO Criminal Investigations Division (CID) responded swiftly and launched a full investigation. Evidence gathered at the scene indicated that Mr. Watts had likely been deceased for several hours before deputies were contacted.

Investigators quickly identified the victim’s son, 36-year-old Delmer Watts Jr., as the prime suspect. Watts Jr., who remained at the scene, was taken into custody without incident. Authorities recovered a hatchet believed to be the weapon used in the attack, along with additional evidence directly linking him to the crime.

Officials noted that Watts Jr. appeared to be under the influence at the time of questioning and had a known history of conflict with his father — a longstanding family tension that may have escalated into this fatal encounter.

Delmer Watts Jr. has been formally charged with First-Degree Murder and booked into the Union Parish Detention Center. The case remains under active investigation as detectives work to determine the full circumstances leading up to the deadly assault.

The community of Bernice is left in disbelief, mourning the violent loss of a longtime resident and grappling with the tragedy of a family torn apart. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Union Parish Sheriff’s Office as they continue to pursue justice in this heartbreaking case.

The community of Mexico, Missouri is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Kristain Pritchett, aged 22, who tragically passed away in a head-on crash early Saturday morning.

According to authorities, the collision occurred when another vehicle crossed the center line, resulting in a devastating impact. Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, Kristain succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

Kristain’s family has been notified, and they, along with countless friends and loved ones, are left grieving the sudden and unimaginable loss. Known for their kind spirit and the joy they brought to those around them, Kristain’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing them.

As the community comes together to support the Pritchett family, there is a shared sense of sorrow and reflection over a young life taken far too soon.

The crash remains under investigation, and further details are expected to be released in the coming days.

Kristain Pritchett will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and lovingly honored by all whose lives they touched.

With profound sorrow, we share the passing of Maggie Wilkes of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, who departed this life on July 11, 2025, at the age of 39. Her loss leaves a deep and aching void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Maggie will be forever remembered for her kind heart, radiant spirit, and unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted wife, a caring mother, and a source of strength and grace to those around her. Whether through her gentle presence or the quiet ways she supported others, Maggie touched countless lives with compassion and warmth.

She is survived by her loving husband, her beloved children, and many family members who will continue to cherish her memory and the lasting legacy of love she leaves behind.

A funeral service honoring Maggie’s life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, to grieve, and to celebrate the beautiful life she lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation or to a charity of your choice, in Maggie’s honor — a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much of herself to others.

Rest in peace, Maggie Wilkes. You will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Barry Stockstill, 64, of Picayune, Mississippi, who tragically lost his life in a vehicle accident on Saturday morning.

The crash occurred around 10 a.m. on Interstate 59 in St. Tammany Parish, when Barry’s vehicle veered off the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. Despite wearing a seatbelt, he sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the vehicle survived the crash but suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The Louisiana State Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the accident.

Barry Stockstill will be remembered by family, friends, and the Picayune community as a kind-hearted and steady presence. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who knew him, and his memory will be cherished in the stories, love, and impact he leaves behind.

As loved ones grieve this sudden and heartbreaking loss, they ask for continued prayers, support, and privacy during this difficult time.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, the Opelika community mourns the tragic and untimely loss of Janiah Thomas, who passed away in the early morning hours of July 13, 2025, at just 22 years old.

Janiah was a bright and beautiful soul whose presence brought light to all who knew her. She was full of life, warmth, and promise — a daughter, a friend, and a cherished member of her community. Her smile was radiant, her spirit kind, and her heart generous. She touched many lives with her compassion, laughter, and gentle strength.

The news of her sudden and violent passing has shaken those closest to her and sent waves of grief through the community. It is a loss that words cannot fully capture — a young life stolen far too soon, leaving behind heartbreak, unanswered questions, and deep sorrow.

As family and friends gather to remember Janiah, they hold tightly to the memories of her joy, her dreams, and the love she gave so freely. In the face of tragedy, the community stands united in mourning, seeking comfort in one another and strength in her memory.

May Janiah Thomas be remembered not by how she died, but by how she lived — with grace, with love, and with a spirit that will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Janiah. You are deeply loved and will forever be missed.

SOUTH LOS ANGELES —A tragic crash in South Los Angeles claimed the life of a bicyclist early Sunday morning after a car plowed into them and three parked vehicles.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the incident occurred around 12:50 a.m. at the intersection of Vernon Avenue and South Figueroa Street. The bicyclist, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel.

Police say the driver involved in the crash remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. No other injuries were reported in the collision.

At this time, authorities have not determined whether the driver will face any criminal charges. Investigators are working to understand what led to the crash, including whether speed, impairment, or distraction may have been contributing factors.

The tragic loss of life has shaken the local community, with residents calling for greater safety measures and increased awareness for cyclists sharing the roads. As the investigation continues, the LAPD urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward.

The victim’s name will be released once next of kin have been notified.

The haunting search for Ellen Getten, the final missing camper from the Bubble Inn at Camp Mystic, has come to a devastating and sorrowful conclusion. After days of uncertainty, hope, and agonizing silence, officials have confirmed that Ellen has been found deceased.

Ellen’s disappearance gripped the community and beyond, sparking an urgent and widespread search effort. For days, volunteers, authorities, and loved ones held onto hope as they scoured the campgrounds and surrounding areas, determined to bring her home safely. Tragically, that hope has now turned to mourning.

Ellen was more than just a name in the headlines—she was a vibrant, spirited young soul whose presence brought warmth to those around her. Whether laughing with friends, exploring the outdoors, or simply being her thoughtful, kind-hearted self, she left an imprint on the hearts of many at Camp Mystic and in her hometown.

Officials have not yet released details surrounding the circumstances of her death, and an investigation remains ongoing.

The Camp Mystic community, still reeling from the tragedy, has come together to honor Ellen’s memory and support one another through this unimaginable loss. Grief counselors have been made available for campers, staff, and families as they navigate the heavy emotional toll of this tragedy.

As loved ones begin the painful process of saying goodbye, Ellen Getten will be remembered for the light she carried, the joy she spread, and the deep love she inspired. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and the entire Camp Mystic community during this heartbreaking time.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Anthony Kenneth Liford, age 49, of Hinkle, who departed this life on Thursday morning, July 10, 2025, at his home. Born on April 28, 1976, in Pineville, Kentucky, Anthony was the beloved son of Gary Liford and the late Elaine Hubbard Collinsworth.

Anthony was a man of deep character, endless curiosity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. He was known for his exceptional ability to fix anything — a true handyman whose talents extended far beyond tools and machines. Whether he was under the hood of a car, building at their lakefront property in Tennessee, or offering a helping hand to neighbors and friends, Anthony lived his life with purpose and heart.

He had a passion for travel and adventure, though his tireless work ethic often kept him closely tied to The Oven Mitt. Yet, when the opportunity arose, he eagerly embraced the chance to explore new places. One of his greatest joys in life was riding his Harley. Together with his loving wife Tonya and their close-knit riding group, Anthony found freedom and peace on the open road. Their rides were more than journeys — they were treasured memories shared among kindred spirits.

On February 1, 2011, Anthony united in marriage with Tonya Miles, beginning a journey built on love, laughter, and shared dreams.

In addition to his mother, Anthony was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Lynn Wright.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in his family: his devoted wife, Tonya Liford of Hinkle; father, Gary Liford of Heidrick; children, Austin Brown of Detroit, MI, Hannah Rice and husband Jacob of Stanford, Trenton Schall and Ashton of Corbin, and Bryleigh Mills of Hinkle. He is also survived by his brother, Gary “Buddy” Liford of Heidrick; his cherished grandchildren, Scarlett and Harley Rice; and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will forever miss his steady presence, generous spirit, and warm smile.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 15, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home, with Rev. Keith “Buster” Liford, Rev. Gary Miles, and Rev. Valerie McCann officiating. Anthony will be laid to rest at Payne Cemetery.

Casket bearers will include Trenton Schall, Jacob Rice, Gary Liford, Johnny Phillips, James McCann, and Hugh Jones.

Friends may visit at the funeral home on Tuesday beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Knox Funeral Home.

Anthony’s legacy of kindness, dedication, and adventure lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. May he ride in peace.

GAFFNEY, S.C. —The Gaffney community is mourning the tragic loss of 46-year-old Joshua Euron Wood, who died following a shooting that occurred early Sunday morning, July 13.

At approximately 1:28 a.m., officers with the Gaffney Police Department were dispatched to Cherokee Medical Center after receiving a report of a shooting victim who had arrived by personal vehicle. The victim, identified as Wood, was initially stabilized and transferred to Spartanburg Regional Medical Center for emergency surgery. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he sadly passed away during the operation.

After further investigation, authorities confirmed that the shooting took place in a parking lot directly across from the Event Hall located at 111 E. Birnie Street. The incident unfolded during the same weekend as downtown Gaffney’s annual Peach Festival, which brought large crowds and a significant police presence to the area. However, no 911 calls were received at the time from the location of the shooting or the nearby venue, leaving investigators with few immediate leads.

The Gaffney Police Department has launched an active investigation and is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. Investigators believe that individuals who attended the event or were in the vicinity may hold critical details that could help solve this case.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective John Neal at (864) 206-3341 or Major Brian Blanton at (864) 206-3334.

As the investigation continues, the Gaffney community is left grieving the loss of Joshua Euron Wood—a life cut short by senseless violence. Authorities remain committed to bringing clarity and justice to his family and all those affected.

Williamston, SC, The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Kevin Leonard Schwenneker, who tragically passed away following a motorcycle crash on Saturday. He was just 34 years old.

The accident occurred at the intersection of Easley Bridge Road and North Washington Avenue, where Kevin was critically injured. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical personnel, he later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

Kevin is remembered by family, friends, and all who knew him as a man full of life, known for his vibrant spirit, kind heart, and adventurous soul. His sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many.

As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, the community rallies around Kevin’s loved ones, offering support, prayers, and remembrance during this incredibly difficult time.

His memory will live on in the stories shared, the love he gave, and the impact he made in the lives of those around him. May Kevin Leonard Schwenneker rest in peace.