Blog

CHICAGO, IL — The Chatham community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Meeyah Smith, a 16-year-old girl whose life was senselessly taken in a shooting late Friday night, July 4, 2025. The incident occurred just before 11 p.m. in the 1200 block of East 83rd Street, where Meeyah and a 35-year-old man were both shot by an unidentified gunman who fled the scene on foot.

Meeyah, who was struck in the throat, was rushed to Jackson Park Hospital but sadly was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed her identity. The second victim, a man shot in the thigh, is expected to recover.

Authorities have yet to make an arrest in connection with the shooting. The motive remains unclear, and police have not confirmed whether Meeyah and the man were targeted or if the violence was random. Area Two detectives are actively investigating, reviewing nearby surveillance footage and seeking witnesses.

A Bright Light Lost Too Soon

Meeyah Smith was known by friends and family as a kind, vibrant, and spirited young woman with dreams still unfolding. Whether she was walking through her neighborhood, participating in school activities, or laughing with friends, Meeyah carried herself with warmth and joy. Her death has left a void that cannot be filled and a community grasping for answers.

“She had so much life ahead of her,” one neighbor said through tears. “She was just a child. This should never have happened.”

Vigils and tributes are being planned to honor Meeyah’s memory. Her loved ones are calling for justice and for greater protections to keep children safe in neighborhoods too often plagued by gun violence.

A Community in Grief, a City Seeking Change

Meeyah’s death is yet another grim reminder of the violence that continues to take young lives on Chicago’s South Side. Community leaders and activists are renewing calls for action—more resources, prevention programs, and a commitment to ending the cycle of violence.

Chicago Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

As her loved ones prepare to lay her to rest, the city remembers Meeyah Smith not for the way she died, but for the light she brought in her 16 short years. She deserved more time, more laughter, more life.

Rest in peace, Meeyah. We will speak your name. We will remember your light.

TEXAS — In the early hours of Friday morning, amidst the roaring chaos of flash floods that engulfed parts of the Texas Hill Country, a young man gave his life in the most selfless way possible—protecting his family. Julian Ryan, just 27 years old, died a hero in a flood tragedy that has left the community of Ingram grieving and the entire state mourning the loss of a brave soul taken far too soon.

As floodwaters from the rapidly rising Guadalupe River swept through the region, Julian’s family became trapped inside their mobile home. The water surged with terrifying speed and force, giving residents little time to react. Inside the home were his fiancée, their children, and his mother-in-law—all at risk as the dark floodwaters climbed higher and higher.

Julian didn’t hesitate.

With no thought for his own safety, he smashed a window and began getting his loved ones—and even their pets—to the roof of the home. It was a desperate race against the rising current, but Julian was determined. In the process, he suffered a deep and severe injury to his arm. Despite the wound, he continued helping his family until everyone was out of the water’s reach.

But Julian’s injury was grave. Isolated by floodwaters and without access to immediate help, he began to lose blood rapidly. Trapped on a rooftop and growing weaker, he had only moments left. In that time, he reached out to his sister—offering comfort even as his own life slipped away.

“Are you okay?” he asked.

“I’m scared,” she replied.

“Me too,” he whispered.

Those would be Julian’s final words. Quiet. Honest. Brave.

Julian Ryan’s death is not just a personal loss for his family—it is a heartbreak for the entire community. In the middle of a disaster, he chose love over fear, action over hesitation. His story is a reminder that heroes walk among us. They are fathers. Brothers. Sons. Partners. And sometimes, they are young men like Julian, who give everything so others can live.

His loved ones are safe today because of him. And though the flood took Julian’s life, it did not take his spirit.

As the town of Ingram and surrounding communities begin the long road to recovery after this devastating natural disaster, the memory of Julian Ryan stands as a symbol of true courage and sacrifice. A GoFundMe has been established by family friends to assist with funeral costs and to support his children, who now face life without their father—their hero.

Please keep Julian’s family in your thoughts and prayers, and remember the name Julian Ryan—a man who gave his all, and whose final act on this earth was love.

🕊️ Rest in peace, Julian. You are deeply loved, and never forgotten.

A wave of shock, heartbreak, and growing outrage is rippling through a devastated community following the tragic and violent death of a young woman named Lundi, whose life was taken in a horrifying act that has left friends, family, and countless strangers demanding answers — and justice.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts and emotional testimony flooding social media, Lundi was fatally shot under chilling circumstances. Reports claim that she was left helpless on the ground, with a gun held to her head and a knee pressed into her chest. The brutality of her death — and the apparent lack of urgency in helping her — has ignited a firestorm of grief, anger, and protest.

“She Didn’t Deserve This”

“Lundi didn’t deserve to die like this,” one friend wrote in a heartbreaking social media post. “They shot her and just let her lay there — cold, alone, like her life meant nothing.”

Those who knew her describe Lundi as kind, bright, and full of promise — someone who brought light into the lives of others, now extinguished in an instant. Her death is being felt deeply not only by those closest to her, but by a wider public now calling for transparency, accountability, and justice.

Community Response

As news of the tragedy spread, so too did the grief. Vigils are being planned. Flowers, candles, and handwritten notes have been left at a makeshift memorial. But alongside the mourning is a sharp demand for answers. Many are asking why more wasn’t done to help her in the moments after the shooting — and what led to such a brutal confrontation in the first place.

“Justice for Lundi” has become a rallying cry both online and on the streets, as community members prepare to gather, protest, and ensure her name is not forgotten.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. As of now, officials have not publicly released key details surrounding the shooting, nor have they confirmed the identity of any suspects. Calls are growing louder for law enforcement to act swiftly, thoroughly, and transparently.

In the meantime, Lundi’s loved ones are left holding onto memories — and the hope that justice will come.

DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — A tragic accident on the night of July 4 has left the Collinsville community in mourning, as 48-year-old Derrick G. Barkley lost his life in a single-vehicle crash in rural DeKalb County.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) confirmed the fatal crash occurred just minutes before midnight, at approximately 11:55 p.m. on Friday, July 4, along DeKalb County Road 30 near County Road 84, about three miles northwest of Collinsville.

Crash Details

According to ALEA, Barkley was driving a 2018 Chevrolet Colorado when the vehicle veered off the roadway. The truck struck a fence, collided with a utility pole, and then overturned. Authorities confirmed that Barkley was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and no additional vehicles were involved. Officials have not released further details at this time.

Community Reaction

News of Barkley’s death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit town of Collinsville, where he was known and respected. Friends and neighbors remember him as a hardworking and kind individual who always had a smile and a helping hand for those around him.

As investigators continue to piece together the circumstances of the crash, local residents are left grappling with the loss of another life taken far too soon — and on a day meant for celebration.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division are continuing the investigation.

It is with profound sorrow that the communities of Goldsboro and Kenly, North Carolina, announce the passing of Maverick Knoll, a cherished son, brother, and friend. Maverick’s life, though tragically cut short, was one defined by his warmth, resilience, and the deep connections he formed with everyone he encountered.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Maverick was a vibrant soul who seamlessly bridged the small-town charm of Kenly with the spirited energy of Goldsboro. Whether on a quiet street or in a crowded room, Maverick stood out — not for drawing attention to himself, but for the way he paid attention to others. He had a rare gift: making people feel seen, heard, and genuinely valued.

Those who knew Maverick speak of his unshakable loyalty, contagious laugh, and the kindness he showed without hesitation. He had a passion for people — always willing to lend a hand, share a smile, or sit and listen. His friendships were built on trust, his love for his family was unwavering, and his presence was a source of comfort and joy to many.

Maverick’s ties to both Goldsboro, a city grounded in tradition and pride, and Kenly, a place of neighborly bonds and lasting values, reflect the core of who he was: grounded, generous, and deeply rooted in community. Whether you knew him through school, work, sports, or just shared conversations in passing, you knew someone real — someone who left a mark.

As his loved ones and neighbors grieve this heartbreaking loss, they also celebrate the legacy Maverick leaves behind — one of compassion, connection, and courage. His memory will continue to live on in the lives he touched and the hearts he uplifted.

In honor of Maverick, may we all strive to love harder, laugh louder, and live more fully — just as he did.

LUBBOCK, Texas — July 5, 2025 An early morning altercation in Northeast Lubbock turned violent Saturday, leaving four people injured and a suspect dead after an officer-involved shooting, according to the Lubbock Police Department.

Authorities say officers responded to reports of a fight in progress around 3:22 a.m. in the 2900 block of Parkway Drive. While on scene, police said a male suspect began firing a weapon at others, prompting one of the responding officers to use deadly force, fatally shooting the suspect.

Four victims—all struck by gunfire—were transported to University Medical Center by EMS. According to LPD, three suffered serious injuries, while one sustained moderate injuries. Investigators believe these individuals were not involved in the officer-involved shooting, but were instead victims of the suspect’s gunfire during the initial incident.

Police confirmed that no officers were injured.

The situation remains under active investigation, with authorities working to determine what led to the initial fight and subsequent gunfire. The identity of the deceased suspect has not yet been released, and no charges have been announced in connection to the incident at this time.

The Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit and Office of Professional Standards are both reviewing the case, as is standard procedure in all officer-involved shootings. More information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

Anyone with additional details is urged to contact Lubbock Police or Crime Line at (806) 741-1000.

TOLEDO, Ohio — Police are investigating a deadly overnight shooting in east Toledo that claimed the life of 20-year-old Salvador Ruiz, marking one of three fatal shootings in the city between July 4 and the early morning hours of July 5.

Officers responded shortly after midnight to a report of gunfire near Platt and 1st streets, where they discovered Ruiz inside a vehicle, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was transported to the hospital but later pronounced dead. A second person in the vehicle was not shot, according to authorities.

Detectives have launched a homicide investigation, and Toledo police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling or texting Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111, with the possibility of receiving a cash reward.

Just minutes after locating Ruiz, officers were called to another scene less than three minutes away on Nevada Street, where a vehicle had crashed. Inside, they found two more gunshot victims. Amir Thomas-Clair, also 20 years old, was pronounced dead at the hospital. Another individual from the vehicle remains in critical condition as of Saturday morning. A third occupant was not injured.

Police have not released any details about suspects or confirmed whether the two incidents are connected.

The back-to-back shootings have cast a shadow over the holiday weekend in Toledo and added to growing concerns about gun violence in the city. The deaths of Ruiz and Thomas-Clair, both just 20 years old, are part of a series of violent incidents that have left families shattered and communities on edge.

Authorities continue to investigate and are calling on the public’s help to bring answers and justice to those affected.

CHARLOTTE, NC — A peaceful night in Uptown Charlotte was shattered by gunfire in the early hours of Saturday, July 5, when officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) responded to reports of a shooting near the 200 block of North Caldwell Street. The call came in at approximately 1:30 a.m., marking yet another tragic chapter in the city’s ongoing battle with gun violence.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered a heartbreaking reality: one person was pronounced dead 💔🕊️, and two others had been shot. The incident quickly escalated into a homicide investigation, sending shockwaves through the Uptown community and drawing a strong police presence throughout the area.

Later that night, CMPD officials confirmed that a third victim connected to the same shooting had arrived at a hospital on their own. Thankfully, that individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries 🏥. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending family notification.

Authorities have not shared what may have led up to the deadly encounter, and no arrests have been announced as of this writing. The circumstances remain under intense investigation as detectives work tirelessly to uncover the facts and hold those responsible accountable.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information to come forward. Even the smallest detail could make a crucial difference in solving this case and delivering justice for the victim and their loved ones.

If you have information related to this tragic event:

📞 Call 704-432-TIPS (8477) to speak directly with a CMPD homicide detective.
👤 Detective Murphy is currently the lead investigator on this case.
📢 To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Tips that lead to arrests may be eligible for a reward.

As Uptown residents try to process the violence that erupted in their neighborhood, many are calling for peace, unity, and action. The streets were meant to be a place of community and celebration—not sorrow. Now, a family mourns, others recover, and a city waits for answers.

One life lost, three lives forever changed—and a community left asking why.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — A night meant for celebration turned into chaos and heartbreak early Saturday morning when a mass shooting erupted in downtown Indianapolis, leaving two people dead and at least seven others injured, according to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD).

Officers were dispatched around 1:30 a.m. to the intersection of West Market Street and North Illinois Street, where they discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the swift response by first responders, two individuals tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

In a statement shared on social media, IMPD expressed deep condolences:

“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the officers & first responders who rushed to the scene.”

Several roads in the downtown area were immediately closed off as investigators began their work. Authorities have urged drivers and pedestrians to avoid the area as the investigation continues into what led to this devastating act of violence.

Images from the scene show a heavy police presence, flashing lights reflecting off the city streets as officials canvassed the area for evidence and witnesses. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and no suspects have been publicly identified as of now.

This tragic incident has sent shockwaves throughout the Indianapolis community, once again highlighting the growing concern around gun violence in public spaces. Community leaders are calling for calm, unity, and answers as they grapple with the senseless loss of life.

Support services are being offered for victims and witnesses affected by the tragedy. As families mourn and a city searches for peace, the hope remains that justice will be served swiftly.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact IMPD or Crime Stoppers. Every voice and detail could help bring clarity to this heartbreaking night.

CALHOUN, GA – The community of Calhoun is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Preston Chad Bohannon, who tragically passed away at the age of 42 following an accident on Boone Ford Road on July 3, 2025. The Gordon County Coroner’s Office has confirmed the details and is working closely with local authorities to support the Bohannon family through this incredibly difficult time.

Preston’s sudden passing has sent waves of grief through the town he called home. Known for his big heart, sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved, Preston left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Friends and family describe him as someone who could always be counted on—a man who gave freely of his time, offered words of encouragement, and carried himself with strength and humility.

Whether it was through a warm conversation, a helping hand, or his contagious laughter, Preston had a way of making people feel seen and valued. His loss is deeply felt, not only by his immediate family but also by a wide circle of friends, coworkers, and neighbors whose lives were made brighter by his presence.

As the community comes to terms with this tragic loss, many are gathering to remember the man Preston was and to honor the legacy he leaves behind. Tributes, memories, and prayers continue to pour in as loved ones navigate this season of sorrow.

Please keep the Bohannon family in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of a beloved son, father, friend, and community member.

Rest in peace, Preston Chad Bohannon. Your memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved you. 🕊️