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LORAIN, OH — A community is in shock following a targeted ambush that left three Lorain police officers wounded and a heavily armed gunman dead. The incident unfolded Wednesday afternoon in the Colorado Avenue Industrial Park area, where the suspect opened fire on two officers as they sat in their patrol vehicles during a lunch break. A third officer who responded to assist was also shot.

During a press conference Wednesday evening, Lorain Acting Police Chief Michael Failing identified the wounded officers as Brent Payne, Peter Gale, and Phillip Wagner.

Officers Payne and Wagner, both critically injured with multiple gunshot wounds, were airlifted to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland for treatment. Officer Gale sustained a gunshot wound to the hand and was treated at Mercy Health – Lorain Hospital.

Chief Failing confirmed the ambush was carried out by a 28-year-old man, described as lying in wait with an “arsenal of weapons,” including a high-powered rifle. The gunman opened fire without warning on the unsuspecting officers. A swift response by fellow officers ensured the injured were transported to medical facilities without delay.

Elyria Police Chief James Welsh, whose department is leading the investigation, said that officers returned fire during the exchange. The suspect was found dead at the scene, though it is not yet clear whether he died from police gunfire or by suicide.

“This is a heartbreaking and difficult day for the Lorain Police Department and the broader law enforcement community,” said Chief Welsh. “We extend our prayers to the families of the injured officers and our deepest gratitude to all agencies who responded swiftly to this act of violence.”

Authorities have not released the suspect’s identity but confirmed he resided in Lorain. They believe he acted alone.

The Lorain County Sheriff’s Office conducted controlled detonations of suspicious materials found at the scene and posted a public advisory reassuring residents that there was no ongoing threat to the public.

As the investigation continues, the motive behind the attack remains unknown. Authorities are working to determine why the officers were in the area at the time and what may have led to this premeditated act of violence.

The Lorain community, law enforcement agencies, and residents throughout Ohio are rallying behind the injured officers and their families, expressing solidarity and gratitude for their service in the face of danger.

BATON ROUGE, La. –Tragedy struck in the early hours of Wednesday as a single-vehicle crash in Baton Rouge claimed the lives of two young men. The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office confirmed that Dakota Carter, 20, and Justin Howard, 21, were pronounced dead at the scene.

The fatal crash occurred around 12:30 a.m. in the 9300 block of Highland Road. According to initial reports, the vehicle was traveling westbound at a high rate of speed when, for unknown reasons, the driver lost control. The car crossed into the eastbound lane, left the roadway, and struck a utility pole with significant force.

Emergency crews had to extricate both victims from the wreckage. Authorities noted that both individuals were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

The incident remains under investigation as officials work to determine the exact cause of the accident. The loss of two young lives has left a deep impact on the Baton Rouge community, with loved ones and friends mourning the sudden and devastating loss.

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we gather to remember and honor the life of Ryan Kearns, a truly remarkable soul whose presence brought warmth, laughter, and unwavering strength to everyone around him.

Ryan’s sudden passing has left behind an unimaginable emptiness, one that words can scarcely describe. He was more than a friend, a son, a brother — he was a source of light in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His smile could lift a room, his kindness was boundless, and his ability to connect with people was effortless and genuine.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Ryan will remember him for his compassionate heart, his resilient spirit, and his ability to make even the darkest days feel a little brighter. Whether he was sharing a laugh, lending a helping hand, or simply showing up when it mattered most, Ryan made an impact that will never be forgotten.

Though his time with us was far too short, Ryan’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely. In grief, we also celebrate — a life lived with purpose, love, and authenticity.

We will miss him deeply. We will carry his memory forward always.

Rest in peace, Ryan Kearns — your light lives on in all of us.

HICKORY, N.C. (July 23, 2025) — The Burke County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Banks Hinceman, has announced that Darren Lee Ellis, age 31, turned himself in on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Burke County Magistrate’s Office in connection with an outstanding misdemeanor non-support warrant.

Ellis, a white male resident of 4000 Clay Trail in Hickory, voluntarily surrendered to authorities and posted a $611 cash bond. He was subsequently released pending his upcoming court appearance.

The warrant, issued in Burke County, stems from Ellis’s alleged failure to meet court-ordered support obligations. He is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 4:49 PM EDT to address the charge.

This case highlights the ongoing commitment of the Burke County Sheriff’s Office to uphold legal responsibilities and ensure accountability. Further updates will be provided as court proceedings progress.

Lena, Illinois – The community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Alexander Leamon, age 23, of Lena, who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on the morning of Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

According to Ogle County officials, Alexander was identified as the sole occupant and pilot of the aircraft—a Cessna T188C—that went down in the 2800 block of W. Illinois Route 64 in Mt. Morris shortly after 9:30 a.m. The crash also resulted in damage to multiple nearby power lines, causing temporary disruptions in the area.

Alexander’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him. Known for his passion for aviation and his adventurous spirit, he was pursuing a dream many only imagine. He is remembered for his dedication, bright smile, and kind heart.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

As the Lena and Ogle County communities grieve this sudden loss, support and condolences continue to pour in for Alexander’s loved ones.

Fly high, Alexander. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

#AlexanderLeamon #InLovingMemory #OgleCounty #AviationAccident #GoneTooSoon

PEACH COUNTY, Ga. — Authorities are investigating a tragic hit-and-run that claimed the life of a pedestrian early Wednesday morning in Fort Valley.

According to Fort Valley Police Chief DJ Flores, the incident occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. on East Church Street near Brawell Street, along Highway 96. The victim, identified as 65-year-old James Oates, was reportedly pushing a shopping cart when he was struck by a vehicle.

Peach County Coroner Kerry Rooks confirmed that Oates was pronounced deceased at approximately 2:40 a.m. at the scene. Authorities have classified the case as a hit-and-run, and the driver involved has not yet been located.

The Georgia State Patrol’s Special Collision Reconstruction Team has taken over the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and locate the individual responsible.

Anyone with information is urged to contact local law enforcement.

With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Army Sergeant First Class Scot Noss, who passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

SFC Noss was not only a dedicated soldier and patriot, but also a beloved member of the HFOT Family, whose story touched the hearts of all who knew him. His life was defined by selfless service, unimaginable courage, and unbreakable resilience.

Following life-altering injuries sustained in service to our country, Scot faced his new reality with the same bravery he carried on the battlefield. He became a symbol of perseverance — a quiet, powerful reminder of the strength within the human spirit. His presence within the Homes For Our Troops community was a gift. He inspired everyone with his humility, dignity, and relentless determination to keep moving forward, no matter the odds.

Scot Noss lived not just as a soldier, but as a warrior in the truest sense — one who faced pain with grace, challenges with courage, and life with purpose. He carried his burdens silently, yet left behind a legacy that will speak for generations. He reminded us all of the cost of freedom, and the depth of the human will.

His absence is deeply felt, and his memory will forever be cherished. To his family, who stood beside him with love and unwavering devotion, we offer our heartfelt sympathy and everlasting gratitude. You shared a remarkable man with the world, and we are all better for it.

May SFC Scot Noss rest in eternal peace. His life made a difference. His strength endures. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

With honor, respect, and remembrance,

Lorain, Ohio — A heavy law enforcement presence flooded the area of Colorado Avenue this afternoon after a violent encounter left three police officers shot and one suspect dead, in what initial reports are describing as a possible ambush.

Authorities have not yet released the names or official conditions of the officers involved, but early information suggests that two of the officers sustained serious injuries. The third officer’s condition remains unknown at this time.

The scene remains active as investigators work to piece together the events that unfolded. Law enforcement agencies from across the region have responded, and parts of the area remain blocked off as the investigation continues.

Community members are being urged to avoid the area and to keep the affected officers and their families in their thoughts during this difficult time

The community of Fairhaven, Massachusetts is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Wayne Silveira, a 77-year-old man who passed away Tuesday evening after being pulled from the water at the Fairhaven Boat Launch.

According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, emergency responders from Fairhaven Police and EMS were dispatched around 5 p.m. following a 911 call reporting a possible drowning at the boat ramp on Seaview Avenue. Upon arrival, they found Silveira had already been pulled from the water by a bystander who was performing CPR in an effort to save his life.

Silveira was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the swift response and lifesaving efforts from both first responders and medical personnel, he was sadly pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

At this time, authorities have stated there is no sign of foul play. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, in conjunction with the Fairhaven Police Department, is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Wayne Silveira’s sudden passing has left a deep sense of sorrow within the local community. Known and respected by many, he will be remembered for the life he lived and the people he touched. As the investigation continues, friends, family, and neighbors are left grieving and reflecting on his life and legacy.

Further details, including any memorial arrangements, will be shared by the family in the coming days. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort to all who knew and loved him.

The La Crosse community is grappling with heartbreak following the tragic discovery of 22-year-old Eliotte Heinz, who was found deceased in the Mississippi River on Wednesday morning. Eliotte, a former resident of Hortonville, had been reported missing on Sunday, sparking a widespread search effort across the region.

According to La Crosse police, the Houston County Sheriff’s Department alerted authorities shortly before 10:30 a.m. that a body had been located near Brownsville, Minnesota—about 13 miles south of La Crosse. The body was later confirmed to be that of Eliotte Heinz.

Eliotte’s disappearance had mobilized a tremendous outpouring of support from local residents, neighboring communities, and volunteers statewide. Flyers, social media posts, and organized search efforts had been widespread in hopes of her safe return. The devastating news of her passing has left family, friends, and community members deeply shaken.

In an official statement, La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron conveyed the collective grief felt by many. “This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search,” he said. “Our thoughts are with Eliotte’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved her. We are grateful for the support and efforts from across the community and beyond during this difficult time.”

Authorities confirm that the investigation into Eliotte’s death remains ongoing. An autopsy will determine the official cause of death, and officials have not yet released any details regarding the circumstances that led to her being found in the river. As of now, no foul play has been confirmed.

Eliotte Heinz will be remembered for the warmth, light, and kindness she brought into the lives of those who knew her. Tributes and messages of condolence have flooded social media, highlighting the deep impact she made during her young life.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns a life cut tragically short. Further updates, including memorial plans and findings from the medical examiner, are expected to be released in the coming days.

May Eliotte’s memory be a blessing to all who loved her.