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  • CRIME INSIDER: Homicide Investigation Underway on Richmond’s North Side

    CRIME INSIDER: Homicide Investigation Underway on Richmond’s North Side

    RICHMOND, Va. — Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting on the city’s north side after an adult female was found shot to death late Sunday.

    According to Richmond Police, officers responded to the 500 block of Hunt Avenue after receiving reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered an adult female victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving measures by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The area was quickly secured with yellow crime scene tape as detectives and forensic units began their work. Hunt Avenue residents described a heavy police presence, with multiple patrol cars and investigators combing through the scene for evidence.

    Officials have not yet released the identity of the victim, pending notification of her family. No suspect information has been shared publicly at this time, and the motive remains under investigation.

    Richmond Police’s Major Crimes Division and homicide detectives are leading the investigation. Detectives are expected to canvass the neighborhood for witnesses and review surveillance footage from nearby residences and businesses that may shed light on what happened.

    Community members gathered near the scene expressed deep concern, saying gun violence in the city continues to take a toll on families and neighborhoods.

    Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to call Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips app. Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.

    The homicide investigation is ongoing.

     

  • SHOOTING/HOMICIDE IN NORTH CITY #STL

    SHOOTING/HOMICIDE IN NORTH CITY #STL

    ST. LOUIS — A deadly shooting in North City is under investigation after police confirmed that one man has died following gunfire Monday evening.

    According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD), officers from the 6th District were dispatched around 8:40 p.m. to the 5000 block of Goodfellow Boulevard near Lillian Avenue after reports of shots fired in the area.

    When officers arrived, they discovered an adult male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to render aid, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

    Police quickly secured the area, with crime scene tape stretching across portions of Goodfellow as investigators worked into the night. The victim’s identity has not yet been released, pending family notification.

    SLMPD confirmed that homicide detectives have been requested to take over the case. Detectives are expected to canvass the neighborhood for witnesses, review surveillance footage from nearby businesses or residences, and gather evidence to determine what led up to the fatal shooting.

    No information regarding possible suspects or motive has been released at this time.

    This latest killing adds to ongoing concerns about gun violence in St. Louis, particularly in North City neighborhoods where residents say they regularly hear gunfire and worry about safety. Community members gathered near the scene Monday night, some expressing frustration and sadness at yet another life lost to violence.

    Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters can call the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Division directly or provide information anonymously through CrimeStoppers at 866-371-TIPS. Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.

    The investigation remains active and updates will be provided as more details become available.

    #STL #NorthCity #GunViolence

     

  • USC Campus on Edge After False Active Shooter Report — Person With Umbrella Identified Online

    USC Campus on Edge After False Active Shooter Report — Person With Umbrella Identified Online

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Anxiety swept across the University of South Carolina campus Sunday evening after an emergency alert warned of a possible active shooter at the Thomas Cooper Library, located at 1322 Greene Street. Students and staff were urged to shelter in place or evacuate, while police methodically cleared the building floor-by-floor.

    Authorities initially described the potential suspect as a white male, about six feet tall, wearing black pants, and cautioned the public to avoid the area until further notice. USC’s alert system, which rapidly notifies students, faculty, and staff by text, email, and app notifications, told community members to barricade doors if necessary and follow all instructions from law enforcement.

    As news spread, a flood of speculation circulated online. Video footage taken near the library showed an individual carrying a long, black object. Some who saw the clip believed the item was a firearm, sparking fears of an armed suspect on campus.

    However, by nightfall, law enforcement made clear: no evidence of a shooter or shots fired had been found. Officials confirmed that no injuries had been reported and there was no verified confirmation of any gunman inside or near the library.

    Adding to the evolving story, students posted to a University of South Carolina Snapchat group that the individual widely filmed on social media was carrying nothing more than an umbrella. The post, which quickly made the rounds online, seemed to match the person in the viral video. What many mistook for a weapon during the tense moments of the alert was in fact an everyday object.

    Despite the clarification, the shelter-in-place order remained in effect until authorities could confidently secure the building and surrounding campus. USC administrators emphasized the importance of responding cautiously to all potential threats, even those later proven to be hoaxes or misunderstandings.

    Jeff Stensland, Associate Vice President for University Communications, confirmed that the university had received an unconfirmed report of an active shooter. Law enforcement conducted a thorough sweep of the library as a precaution, he said, adding that the school takes every such report seriously.

    “This was a highly stressful situation for everyone on campus,” Stensland said. “While there is no evidence of an active shooter, we will never take chances with the safety of our community.”

    The incident comes amid a wave of false or mistaken active shooter reports on college campuses nationwide, highlighting how quickly fear can spread in an era where video clips and social media updates often outpace official information.

    As of late Sunday, USC officials had not announced whether the shelter-in-place order had been lifted, but urged students to rely on official USC Alerts for real-time updates rather than speculation circulating online.

    While the scare turned out to be unfounded, the tense hours served as a stark reminder of the fear and disruption such reports can cause — even when the “suspect” is holding nothing more than an umbrella.

    #USC #ColumbiaSC

  • Motorcyclist Justin Eckhart Killed in Hancock County Crash Following Earlier Pursuit

    Motorcyclist Justin Eckhart Killed in Hancock County Crash Following Earlier Pursuit

    HANCOCK COUNTY, Ohio — Justin Eckhart, 42, of Sylvania, was killed late Monday afternoon in a crash involving a minivan driven by Mary Taylor, 77, of Fostoria, at the intersection of U.S. Route 224 and Township Road 259, according to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office.

    Authorities say the crash occurred at approximately 4:46 p.m., when deputies were dispatched to reports of a serious collision.

    Through investigation, officials determined that Taylor was traveling eastbound on U.S. 224 in a 2016 Chrysler minivan and was attempting to turn north onto Township Road 259.

    Eckhart, who was operating a 2005 Honda motorcycle, attempted to pass multiple vehicles as Taylor was making her turn. In the process, the motorcycle collided with the driver’s side of the minivan, ejecting Eckhart from the bike.

    Emergency responders pronounced Eckhart deceased at the scene.

    Mary Taylor sustained minor injuries and was treated on scene. Her passenger, David Taylor, 79, of Fostoria, was also treated at the scene for minor injuries.

    The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Findlay Police Department, HANCO EMS, Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department, Dick’s Towing, and Reinhart’s Auto Body.

    The sheriff’s office noted that the crash remains under investigation.

    Adding further context, the Findlay Police Department told WFIN that Eckhart had been in a high-speed pursuit with officers shortly before the collision. Police said they had terminated the chase six minutes before the fatal crash occurred.

    Authorities have not released additional details regarding the pursuit, including why it was initiated or what speeds were involved. Officials emphasized that the focus remains on reconstructing the crash and ensuring that a complete investigation is conducted.

    This tragic incident has raised renewed concerns about the dangers of high-speed motorcycle pursuits and reckless passing maneuvers on busy roadways. Law enforcement agencies often face the difficult decision of balancing the need to apprehend suspects with the risks that pursuits pose to both the public and those involved.

    As the investigation continues, officials are urging motorists to exercise caution at intersections, remain alert for passing vehicles, and respect traffic laws to help prevent future tragedies.

     

  • FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH IN IPSWICH CLAIMS LIFE OF GLOUCESTER RIDER

    FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH IN IPSWICH CLAIMS LIFE OF GLOUCESTER RIDER

    IPSWICH, Mass. — A tragic head-on collision between a motorcycle and a Dodge pickup truck claimed the life of a 72-year-old Gloucester man on Thursday afternoon near the Rowley border along Route 1A.

    According to local authorities, the accident occurred shortly after 4:00 p.m., when the motorcycle and the pickup truck collided head-on. The impact was severe, and the rider was thrown from his motorcycle upon collision. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as first responders rushed to assist.

    Reports indicate that the force of the crash resulted in catastrophic injuries, including the amputation of one of the rider’s legs during the impact. Emergency personnel initially prepared to transport the victim via Med-Flight helicopter; however, the flight was canceled once it became clear that the rider had succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

    Law enforcement has not released the name of the deceased at this time, pending notification of family members. The driver of the Dodge pickup truck was reportedly unharmed but remains under investigation as authorities determine the cause and circumstances of the collision.

    Route 1A was temporarily closed in both directions while police and emergency crews secured the scene, conducted their investigation, and cleared debris. Traffic delays were reported in the area for several hours.

    The Ipswich Police Department confirmed that the incident is under investigation. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage of the area to come forward to aid in reconstructing the events leading up to the fatal crash.

    The Gloucester community and family members of the rider are mourning the sudden loss of a longtime resident whose life was cut tragically short in what authorities are describing as a devastating accident. Local officials have reminded motorists to exercise caution, especially on routes frequently traveled by motorcycles, to prevent similar tragedies.

    This incident marks another somber reminder of the dangers that motorcyclists face on public roads. Authorities continue to investigate and have not yet indicated if charges will be filed as part of their ongoing inquiry.

     

  • Gunfire Report at University of South Carolina’s Thomas Cooper Library Found Unfounded; Shelter-in-Place Lifted

    Gunfire Report at University of South Carolina’s Thomas Cooper Library Found Unfounded; Shelter-in-Place Lifted

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Authorities at the University of South Carolina responded to a tense situation this evening after a report of gunfire at Thomas Cooper Library prompted a campus-wide safety alert and a swift law enforcement response.

    According to University of South Carolina Police Department (USCPD) officials, the call came in around 6:30 p.m., reporting possible shots fired inside or near the library on the Columbia campus. In response, a Carolina Alert was immediately issued, instructing students, faculty, and staff to avoid the area and shelter in place.

    Law enforcement agencies, including USCPD and assisting local authorities, quickly arrived on scene and conducted a thorough search of the library and surrounding areas. After an extensive investigation, no evidence of a shooting was found.

    “Our officers responded immediately to ensure the safety of everyone on campus,” USCPD said in a statement. “At this time, we have no indication that any gunfire took place.”

    While the shelter-in-place order has since been rescinded, the Thomas Cooper Library remains closed as officials continue to review the incident and ensure the building is secure.

    Two individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation process but were treated at the scene and are expected to recover fully.

    The false report comes amid heightened sensitivity to campus safety incidents nationwide, leaving many students shaken despite the lack of evidence of an actual threat.

    “It was terrifying at first—we didn’t know what was going on,” said one student who was inside the library when the alert went out. “Everyone just started running.”

    USCPD is urging the campus community to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately but reassured students and staff that there is no ongoing threat to campus safety.

    University officials have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available regarding the source of the initial report.

    This is a developing story. Additional details will be shared through Carolina Alert and official university communication channels as the investigation continues.

     

  • BREAKING NEWS: Two Injured in Drive-By Shooting; Police Searching for Crime Scene

    BREAKING NEWS: Two Injured in Drive-By Shooting; Police Searching for Crime Scene

    Authorities are actively investigating a drive-by shooting that left two individuals wounded late Sunday evening. Emergency dispatchers confirmed that at least one of the victims managed to walk to a nearby location to seek help after the gunfire erupted.

    According to initial reports, officers are still working to locate the exact scene of the shooting. Law enforcement sources say that the victims may have fled the original site of the attack, complicating efforts to pinpoint where the incident occurred.

    Dispatch reports indicate that two victims were injured: one is in critical condition, while the other is listed in serious condition. Both were transported to local hospitals by emergency medical services. Their identities have not been released pending family notification.

    Police units, including K-9 teams, are canvassing the area in an effort to locate evidence such as shell casings, surveillance footage, and witnesses. Roads in parts of the surrounding neighborhood have been temporarily blocked off as the investigation unfolds.

    “We are working to identify where this shooting took place and what led up to it,” one officer at the scene said. “At this time, we do not have any suspect descriptions to release.”

    Neighbors in the area reported hearing a series of gunshots shortly before seeing a wounded individual stumble into a nearby yard seeking assistance.

    “It was terrifying,” said one resident, who declined to be named. “We heard what sounded like rapid fire, then a man yelling for help. Minutes later, police and ambulances were everywhere.”

    Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive for the shooting or whether it was targeted or random. Detectives are urging anyone with information to contact local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers immediately.

    This is a developing story. Our news crew remains on the scene and will continue to provide updates as more details become available regarding the victims’ conditions, the location of the shooting, and any potential suspects.

     

  • Virginia State Police Investigating Fatal Shooting Involving Off-Duty Special Agent

    Virginia State Police Investigating Fatal Shooting Involving Off-Duty Special Agent

    VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Virginia State Police (VSP) has launched an investigation into a fatal shooting involving an off-duty Virginia State Police Special Agent that occurred late Sunday morning in Virginia Beach.

    Authorities say the incident took place around 11:45 a.m. at the agent’s residence on Lee Road. According to preliminary reports, a 40-year-old man arrived at the home and attempted to break in through the front door. The off-duty agent confronted the man and, during the confrontation, opened fire.

    Emergency responders transported the suspect to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

    The Special Agent sustained moderate injuries during the altercation and was also taken to a local hospital for treatment. Details regarding the extent of the injuries have not been disclosed, but officials confirmed they were not life-threatening.

    “This remains an active investigation,” a Virginia State Police spokesperson said in a brief statement Sunday afternoon. “Our investigators are working to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic event.”

    State Police have confirmed that the agent has been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol in all officer-involved shootings. The investigation will include a full review of the incident to determine whether the use of deadly force was justified under state law.

    Neighbors in the quiet Virginia Beach community expressed shock at the violence.

    “This is usually a really peaceful area,” said one neighbor, who asked not to be identified. “It’s unsettling to hear that something like this happened right here on our street.”

    Authorities have not indicated whether the suspect and the agent knew each other or if this was a random attempted break-in. No charges have been filed at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.

    This incident adds to a growing number of officer-involved shootings in Virginia this year, which have sparked conversations about home defense, law enforcement accountability, and community safety.

    The Virginia State Police says additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.

     

  • Community Mourns the Loss of Joseph Mazza, Sr., Dedicated Fire Service Leader

    Community Mourns the Loss of Joseph Mazza, Sr., Dedicated Fire Service Leader

    POCATELLO, Idaho — The community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Joseph Mazza, Sr., a respected leader and dedicated public servant whose contributions to fire safety and emergency response have left a lasting impact.

    Joe Mazza served with distinction as a Past Chief and current Commissioner of the Pocatello Fire District, where his leadership and commitment to public safety helped guide the department through critical operations and community initiatives. In addition to his work in Pocatello, he was a valued member of the Orange County HAZMAT Team, providing specialized expertise in hazardous materials response and ensuring the safety of countless individuals throughout his career.

    Colleagues, friends, and community members remember Joe as a passionate professional who consistently put the needs of others above his own. His dedication to public service, mentorship of younger firefighters, and unwavering commitment to safety have left an enduring legacy in both the Pocatello and Orange County communities.

    “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mazza family during this difficult time,” a representative from the Pocatello Fire District stated. “Joe’s impact on our department, his colleagues, and the community will not be forgotten. His leadership, guidance, and friendship touched so many lives, and he will be deeply missed.”

    Funeral and memorial services will be announced once arrangements are finalized. The Pocatello Fire District and affiliated agencies encourage those who wish to honor Joe Mazza’s memory to keep his family and colleagues in their thoughts and to reflect on the dedication and courage he brought to the fire service each day.

    Joe Mazza’s passing is a profound loss to the fire service community, yet his legacy of service, integrity, and leadership will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

     

  • The Bronx — Basketball Game Turns Deadly as Gunfire Erupts in Haffen Park

    The Bronx — Basketball Game Turns Deadly as Gunfire Erupts in Haffen Park

    BAYCHESTER, What was meant to be a summer basketball tournament filled with competition and community spirit ended in tragedy Saturday evening when multiple shooters opened fire at Haffen Park in Baychester, The Bronx, killing 32-year-old Marcus Green and leaving four others injured, including 17-year-old Anthonaya Campbell, who is now fighting for her life.

    Authorities say the gunfire erupted during the tournament off Gunther Avenue, sending players and spectators scrambling for cover. NYPD officials reported that at least five individuals were struck by bullets before the chaos subsided.

    Among the victims is Anthonaya Campbell, who remains in critical condition at a local hospital. Campbell, a promising young student who aspired to become a speech pathologist, was shot in the back of the head. The bullet is lodged behind her eye, leaving her unable to speak.

    Her mother, Jennifer Talbot, described the harrowing moment she learned of her daughter’s injury.

    “She must have got up and tried to run. My grandson was there and he ran up and thought that she was dead. And my other daughter went down there and panicked and somebody else started to do CPR,” Talbot said.

    Talbot, who had just celebrated completing her PhD program, said the pain of receiving the devastating call about her daughter was unbearable.

    “It took more than 17 minutes for my daughter to get CPR, which made a big difference in her condition. If we had officers actually present, it would have been a lot sooner,” she added, criticizing the lack of immediate police presence at the event.

    The gunfire claimed the life of Marcus Green, who was pronounced dead at the scene after being shot in the chest. Two other victims sustained gunshot wounds to the back but are expected to survive, and a 42-year-old man was treated for a gunshot wound to the arm.

    Family members of Campbell and other victims are pleading for an end to the relentless wave of gun violence plaguing New York City.

    “My niece just turned 17, she didn’t deserve this. Nobody could deserve this,” said Elizabeth, Campbell’s aunt.

    Police have not yet made any arrests, and investigators are searching for multiple suspects believed to have opened fire at the crowded park. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and urging anyone with information to come forward.

    The shooting adds to a troubling trend of late-summer gun violence in the city, which has left communities across the five boroughs reeling. Local leaders are expected to hold a press conference in the coming days to address safety concerns and outline potential measures to curb violence at public events.

    For now, a family clings to hope as a promising young woman fights for her life in a hospital bed, and a community mourns yet another life lost to senseless gunfire.

    This remains an active investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline.