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PITTSBURGH, PA — A tragic rollover crash in Pittsburgh’s Point Breeze neighborhood has claimed the life of 18-year-old Jakob James Sirlin, a recent graduate of Pittsburgh Allderdice High School. Three other teens were injured in the early Thursday morning crash.

According to Pittsburgh Public Safety, first responders were dispatched to the 1200 block of Beechwood Boulevard—between Beechwood Lane and Gettysburg Street—just before 1 a.m. following reports of a rollover accident involving four teenagers.

Emergency crews arrived to find a devastating scene. Three of the teens—identified as male—had managed to escape the wrecked vehicle on their own. The fourth occupant, however, was pinned inside and pronounced dead at the scene. He was later identified as Sirlin.

One of the surviving teens was transported to the hospital in critical condition. The other two, including the driver, were hospitalized in stable condition.

Early findings from the investigation suggest speed was a contributing factor in the crash. Pittsburgh police continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the rollover.

The death of Jakob Sirlin has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly at Pittsburgh Allderdice High School, where classmates, faculty, and friends are mourning the loss of a bright and kind young man whose life was just beginning.

Grief counselors are expected to be made available to students and staff as the school and surrounding community come to terms with the loss.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Pittsburgh Police as the investigation remains ongoing.

Our hearts go out to the Sirlin family, the injured teens, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.

We are deeply saddened to share that Brandyn Ross has passed away after bravely battling injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. His passing leaves a profound void not only in Lakeville, Indiana, but across the entire Midwest racing community.

Brandyn came from a proud racing family known throughout the region, and he was building upon that legacy with passion, heart, and relentless drive. Whether it was his efforts with Reveal The Hammer, his unwavering support for fellow racers, or his commitment to lifting up the racing community as a whole, Brandyn embodied everything that makes motorsports more than just a sport—it’s a family.

From his early days racing at South Bend and Plymouth, to thrilling runs at Kalamazoo Speedway (Kzoo), and his tireless dedication to supporting his son at The Rumble in Fort Wayne, Brandyn never did anything halfway. He gave his all—on and off the track—and did so with humility, grit, and a love for the racing life that inspired everyone around him.

He was a fierce competitor and a loyal friend. He showed up, he worked hard, and he made people feel like they mattered. Whether in the pits, on the stands, or under the lights of a local track, Brandyn Ross was always all in.

As we mourn this heartbreaking loss, we ask that you keep the Ross family, their many friends, supporters, and everyone connected to Ross Racing in your thoughts and prayers. The racing community stands with them during this incredibly difficult time.

Brandyn, thank you for the memories, the dedication, and the legacy you’ve left behind. You’ll never be forgotten.

Lawrence, KS — A deadly shooting Thursday evening in Lawrence has left two people dead and one critically injured, according to local authorities.

Lawrence police were called to the 1600 block of Haskell Avenue, near the southern end of the Edgewood Apartments, shortly after 8 p.m. When officers arrived at the scene, they found two individuals deceased and a third suffering from life-threatening injuries.

Lawrence Police Sgt. Drew Fennelly confirmed the details in a brief statement, adding that the investigation is still in its early stages.

“Initial information suggests there are no outstanding suspects involved in this incident. This is preliminary information that is not yet confirmed,” Fennelly noted in an email to media outlets.

Crime scene tape cordoned off a section of the apartment complex as investigators processed the scene. The names of the victims have not been released, and it remains unclear what led to the deadly violence.

No further details have been made public at this time. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and have urged anyone with information to come forward.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

The BBQ world and the New Jersey community are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Ercole Chila, who tragically passed away in a car accident on July 17, 2025. Known for his boundless warmth, vibrant spirit, and unforgettable presence, Ercole touched countless lives as a friend, mentor, and master of his craft.

Ercole was the passionate heart behind Uncle Pig’s Competition BBQ Team, where he not only showcased his remarkable talent but helped elevate the art of competitive barbecue to new heights. His legacy includes earning the prestigious KCBS Team of the Year title and achieving one of the BBQ world’s rarest honors: winning The Jack, the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational.

Yet beyond the trophies and accolades, Ercole was most admired for who he was as a person—a generous soul with a heart as big as his hugs. In the words of one close friend, “You’ll never be forgotten. I’ll miss your big hugs and your hard pats on the back.” That sentiment echoes across the BBQ circuit and beyond, where he was a constant source of support, encouragement, and genuine friendship.

To his beloved Sara Chila and the entire Chila family, an outpouring of love, prayers, and heartfelt condolences continues to flow. The community stands with you in this time of deep grief, united by the lasting impact Ercole made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Memorial service details will be shared by the family in the coming days. As we remember Ercole, may we hold onto the laughter, the smoke-filled cook-offs, the championship moments, and most of all—the love and camaraderie he brought to every table.

Rest in peace, Ercole. Your fire, both in spirit and in smoke, will never fade.

With heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Lindsay Ann Lewis, age 43, who departed this life on July 16, 2025. Born on April 3, 1982, Lindsay’s life was a journey of strength, resilience, and deep love for her family.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Zack Gainer (Alanea), Samantha Gainer (Logan), Austin Garland, and Larissa Garland, as well as her cherished granddaughter, Ellie Burgess. Lindsay also leaves behind many other beloved family members who will forever hold her memory close.

Lindsay’s path in life included both challenges and moments of profound joy. Through it all, she remained a mother, daughter, and friend whose presence left an imprint on the hearts of those around her. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she may now be at peace.

A visitation will be held on July 21, 2025, at Swigart-Easterling Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service to honor and celebrate her life.

As family and friends gather to remember Lindsay, may her spirit be honored in the love shared, the stories told, and the memories cherished.

The Staff and Management of Blake Phillips Funeral Home, announce with deep sorrow the passing of Bertha Gaynelle Williams, age 57, of 1805 Norcott Circle, Apt A, Greenville, North Carolina. Ms. Williams departed this life on Monday, July 14, 2025. During this time of sorrow, we extend our most sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her warmth, kindness, and loving spirit.

Bertha was a beacon of strength, love, and quiet grace.  Her presence left a lasting impact, and her absence will be deeply felt in the lives of many. Although arrangements are incomplete at this time, we will share additional details as they become available. We ask that you keep the Williams family uplifted in your hearts and prayers during this time of loss.

May they find comfort in knowing that others care, and that Bertha’s memory will live on in all who knew and loved her. If we can be of any assistance to the family or community during this time, please do not hesitate to reach out. With deepest sympathy, Blake Phillips Funeral Home Staff and Management

Delaware, Ohio, It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Jamey Hackett, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Jamey’s life was a beautiful testament to compassion, dedication, and love—a life that touched many and will not be forgotten.

Jamey was known for his vibrant spirit, warm smile, and unwavering kindness. Whether in his personal relationships or his involvement in the Delaware community, he gave of himself freely and wholeheartedly. His presence brought light and strength to those around him, and his generosity and sincerity left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

A man devoted to his family, Jamey found joy in life’s simple moments and deep meaning in the roles he held most dear. His love, guidance, and example will continue to live on in those who were fortunate to walk beside him.

As the Hackett family navigates this profound loss, they are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community. Jamey will be profoundly missed, but the legacy of his life and the goodness he shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared in the coming days.

The community of Evendale and the greater Miami Township area are mourning the loss of Terry Trost, a dedicated retired police officer who passed away after a courageous battle with ALS. A life marked by unwavering service, strength, and quiet heroism, Terry’s legacy will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

Terry served the Miami Township Police Department from 1983 to 2009, rising through the ranks as a patrol officer and later as a detective, where his commitment to justice and community safety earned him deep respect among colleagues and residents alike. His calm presence, professionalism, and deep sense of duty left a lasting impact on the department and the people he served.

After retiring, Terry faced the profound challenge of ALS with the same courage and dignity he brought to his career. Even in the face of adversity, he continued to inspire those around him with his resilience and strength of spirit.

Family, friends, and fellow officers are invited to celebrate Terry’s life during visitation services on July 22 at Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service and burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. It will be a time to honor not only his career and accomplishments, but the quiet kindness and loyalty that defined him.

Terry Trost will be remembered not just for the badge he wore, but for the integrity, compassion, and courage he brought to every day of his life. He will be dearly missed, and forever honored.

Tragedy struck on Lake Norman Thursday afternoon as the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery of the body of a 16-year-old boy who drowned near Catalina Drive.

At approximately 3:20 PM, deputies responded to a call reporting that a swimmer had gone under the water and did not resurface. The teen was identified as Kaleb Lamar Shields, a local youth whose sudden disappearance prompted an urgent and extensive search effort.

The Sheriff’s Office Lake Patrol Unit quickly mobilized, deploying sonar technology and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to assist in locating the teen. They were joined in the operation by personnel from local fire departments and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.

After several hours of searching, the ROV located Kaleb’s body underwater at approximately 6:43 PM. He was then recovered and brought to shore.

Sheriff Darren Campbell issued a statement expressing sympathy:

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young individual whose life was lost today. This is a devastating loss for our community.”

The incident remains under active investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances leading to the drowning.

Community members have begun to rally around the family, offering prayers and support during this heartbreaking time.

Sun Valley, CA — Rev. John MacArthur, one of the most influential and polarizing figures in American evangelicalism, has died at the age of 86. His death was announced by Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, where he served as senior pastor for over five decades. The church confirmed he had recently contracted pneumonia.

A revered teacher to some and a fierce critic of modern evangelical trends to others, MacArthur built a global ministry centered on unwavering devotion to Scripture and doctrinal purity. His sermons, broadcast worldwide through the Grace to You media ministry, reached millions weekly, and his influence extended through more than 400 books and study guides, including the widely used MacArthur Study Bible.

Franklin Graham, president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, paid tribute on social media, calling MacArthur “one of America’s great Bible teachers,” and noting, “He could get more out of a Bible verse than anyone I’ve ever known.”

Born January 23, 1939, in Los Angeles, MacArthur came from a long line of preachers. His father, Jack MacArthur, was a Baptist pastor and evangelist, and instilled in him an early commitment to faith. That calling became undeniable after a life-altering car accident in Alabama during his college years, which left him bedridden for months and ultimately set him on a path to the pulpit.

In 1969, MacArthur took over as pastor of Grace Community Church, then a modest congregation of 700. Under his leadership, the church grew into a 3,500-seat megachurch and became a powerful platform for his fundamentalist teachings. Rejecting contemporary evangelical trends such as user-friendly sermons and pop-style worship, MacArthur fiercely adhered to a vision of the church as a place of reverence and truth — not entertainment.

“The church is not a pub for the neighborhood,” he wrote in his 1993 book Ashamed of the Gospel. “It is not a community center… It is not a country club for the masses.”

MacArthur also served as president of The Master’s College (later The Master’s University) and The Master’s Seminary in Santa Clarita, where he trained generations of conservative theologians. He was known for his meticulous, handwritten Bible studies, his refusal to use computers, and a belief in the inerrancy of Scripture that guided every aspect of his ministry.

Throughout his career, MacArthur drew controversy as well as admiration. He publicly criticized Catholicism, prosperity gospel preachers like Joel Osteen, and even fellow evangelicals such as Beth Moore. He made headlines for comments dismissing Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ advocacy as incompatible with biblical teaching. His stance on COVID-19 further deepened divides: during the pandemic, he defied California public health orders by continuing indoor services and questioned the legitimacy of the virus itself.

In recent years, his church faced scrutiny over its counseling practices, with reports alleging that women in abusive marriages were advised to remain with their husbands and warned of church discipline if they refused. Grace Community Church did not respond to the allegations.

Yet for his followers, MacArthur remained a towering theological voice. His unyielding commitment to Scripture, his clarity in teaching, and his leadership over decades earned him a loyal global following.

In a statement, Grace Community Church said:

“Pastor John’s ministry was marked by an unwavering commitment to declare God’s truth. Even in recent years, though beset with health challenges, he persisted in teaching, leading, and investing in the ministries the Lord had entrusted to him.”

John MacArthur is survived by his wife, Patricia, their children, grandchildren, and the generations of believers and pastors shaped by his ministry. His legacy — faithful to the letter of Scripture and often resistant to cultural tides — will long remain part of the evangelical landscape in America and beyond.