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The community is grieving the sudden and tragic passing of Dustin Virkus, who left us yesterday. News of his death has spread quickly, leaving family, friends, and all who knew him in deep shock and sorrow.

Dustin was more than just a name to those around him—he was a beloved son, brother, friend, and neighbor whose warmth, humor, and kindness touched many lives. Known for his generous spirit and unwavering loyalty to the people he cared about, Dustin was someone who could brighten any room he entered.

His passing has created a void that words can hardly describe. Friends and loved ones have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes, remembering Dustin as a person who always offered a helping hand, a listening ear, and a smile when it was needed most. Many are recalling fond memories and moments that highlight his character and the way he made others feel seen and valued.

“Dustin had a way of making everyone feel like family,” one friend shared. “He truly cared about people and always showed up when you needed him most.”

The announcement of his death has also sparked an outpouring of condolences from across the community, with many offering support to the Virkus family during this difficult time. Churches, organizations, and local groups have extended thoughts and prayers, reminding the family that they are not alone in their grief.

While the pain of losing Dustin is immeasurable, the memories of his kindness, laughter, and love will remain with those who knew him. His life, though cut far too short, is being remembered as one that was filled with compassion and a genuine heart for others.

Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be shared by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, friends and loved ones are gathering to comfort one another and to keep Dustin’s spirit alive through stories, memories, and shared love.

To Dustin’s family, we extend our deepest sympathy and prayers. May you find peace in the love of those around you and strength in the cherished memories you hold.

Rest in Peace, Dustin Virkus. You will never be forgotten.

VILLANOVA, Pa. — Panic swept across Villanova University Thursday afternoon when an active shooter alert was issued during freshmen orientation for the Class of 2029, prompting students, staff, and faculty to shelter in place. Hours later, university officials confirmed the threat was a hoax that triggered a large-scale emergency response.

The incident began when the university’s emergency alert system sent out a shelter-in-place order, instructing individuals on campus to lock and barricade doors, avoid windows, and remain inside secure locations. The alert specifically warned the community to stay away from the Charles Widger School of Law at Scarpa Hall, where the potential threat was first reported.

Witness accounts indicated that multiple individuals believed they had heard gunfire near the law school. In response, students fled across campus, some sprinting into dorms or academic buildings while others crouched beneath desks, awaiting updates from law enforcement.

Within minutes, local police, campus security, and county law enforcement officers converged on campus, conducting a methodical search of Scarpa Hall and nearby buildings. Emergency vehicles lined Lancaster Avenue as officials established a perimeter to contain the potential threat.

Initial unconfirmed reports suggested there may have been a possible gunshot victim, though law enforcement has since confirmed no injuries occurred and no evidence of a firearm discharge was found.

By early evening, Villanova University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD, issued a statement confirming the incident was the result of a “cruel hoax” designed to incite fear and disrupt the university community.

“This deliberate act of deception placed our students, faculty, staff, and their families under immense distress on what should have been a joyful and welcoming day,” President Donohue said. “We are thankful for the swift and coordinated response of law enforcement and relieved that no one was physically harmed. However, the emotional toll is undeniable.”

The shelter-in-place order was officially lifted once law enforcement cleared the buildings and deemed the area safe. Classes, orientation activities, and campus operations are expected to resume Friday with increased security and counseling services available for anyone impacted by the false alarm.

Investigators are now working to trace the origin of the hoax, which officials say could carry serious criminal charges. False reports of active shooters have become an increasing concern nationwide, straining emergency resources and spreading panic across communities.

Villanova leaders urged students and families to remain vigilant and to always take safety alerts seriously, despite this false report.

“We would rather our community respond with caution to every alert than dismiss a warning that turns out to be real,” Donohue said.

The Delaware County District Attorney’s Office and federal partners are assisting in the ongoing investigation to determine who was responsible for the false report.

POLK COUNTY, Texas — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Livingston Police Department, is actively investigating two connected crime scenes involving a burglary of a building and a shooting incident.

Authorities confirmed that the investigation began Thursday evening after receiving reports of suspicious activity and possible gunfire in the area of Heckler Road and Rainbow Drive. When deputies and officers arrived, they discovered evidence of a burglary at one location, and signs of a shooting at another.

Law enforcement officials are currently searching for the individual who was shot during the course of these events. At this time, it remains unclear whether the person injured was a suspect involved in the burglary, or a bystander caught up in the situation. Detectives are working to determine the sequence of events that led to the shooting and whether both incidents are directly connected.

Residents in the area have reported heightened police presence, with multiple patrol units and investigators combing the scenes for evidence. Officers have been seen canvassing neighborhoods, interviewing witnesses, and searching nearby wooded areas in an effort to locate the injured individual.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has urged residents to remain alert and to report any suspicious activity or information that could help locate the shooting victim. Authorities stressed that there is no immediate threat to the public, but emphasized the importance of community cooperation in resolving the case.

The Sheriff’s Office and Livingston Police have not yet released additional details, including the description of any suspects or the circumstances surrounding the burglary. The investigation is described as active and ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office or Livingston Police Department immediately.

LAWTON, Okla. — Lawton Police are investigating a series of incidents involving Bob Morton that occurred on August 20, 2025, culminating in a fatal shooting at a local Walmart and a self-inflicted gunshot wound that resulted in his death.

At approximately 10:15 a.m., Lawton Police Officers responded to reports of a FedEx vehicle found in the canal at Ferris and Waterford. The vehicle had been stolen from a delivery location at 12 NW Sheridan. Officers arrived shortly after the vehicle was discovered, but Morton had already fled the scene.

Further investigation revealed that Morton was also involved in a shooting at a Walmart store later that same day. Surveillance and witness accounts indicate that Morton took a firearm from a patron who was using the self-checkout registers and fired multiple shots near the north entrance of the store. Thankfully, no additional injuries were reported from the Walmart incident beyond the confrontation involving Morton.

Morton subsequently sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Lawton Police have confirmed that Morton is the only suspect involved in both incidents.

The Criminal Investigation Division of the Lawton Police Department has classified this as an ongoing investigation and is requesting that anyone with information regarding these events contact detectives at 580-581-3240. Authorities are continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage from both locations to piece together the timeline and circumstances leading up to these incidents.

Lawton Police emphasized that public safety remains a top priority and thanked the community for remaining vigilant and cooperative while the investigation continues.

These events have left the Lawton community shaken, highlighting the dangers associated with vehicle theft, firearm-related crimes, and impulsive acts of violence. Law enforcement officials urge residents to report any relevant information to aid in the investigation and to remain aware of their surroundings.

BULLHEAD CITY, Ariz. — A violent shooting in Bullhead City sent shockwaves through the community on the evening of August 20, leaving 58-year-old female resident critically injured and resulting in the arrests of Tyler Rey Nelson, 21, of Fort Mohave, and his mother, Toni Marie Sierra, 40, also of Fort Mohave.

At approximately 7:40 p.m., officers with the Bullhead City Police Department responded to reports of a weapons offense in the 1000 block of Holly Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the woman had been shot multiple times in the back. First responders immediately rendered medical aid until paramedics arrived. The victim was transported to Western Arizona Regional Medical Center before being transferred to a hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada for further treatment. Her current condition has not been publicly released.

Following a thorough investigation and witness interviews, police arrested Nelson for attempted second-degree murder during a traffic stop near Alona’s Way and Trane Road in Bullhead City at around 8 p.m. Authorities recovered a firearm inside his vehicle.

Sierra was arrested at her residence for facilitation related to the crime. Both suspects are currently being held in the Mohave County Jail in Kingman, and authorities have indicated that additional charges may be pending as the investigation continues.

According to police, Nelson and Sierra went to the Holly Street residence to confront a resident regarding stolen property. During the confrontation, Nelson allegedly shot the homeowner. Law enforcement confirmed that the victim was not armed at the time of the altercation.

This shocking incident has raised concern among Bullhead City residents, who noted that violent crimes remain rare in the area but emphasized the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspicious activity. Police continue to urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Authorities also praised the quick actions of officers and emergency responders, whose immediate care likely helped stabilize the victim before she was transported for advanced treatment.

The investigation into the Holly Street shooting remains active, with detectives working to determine all the circumstances surrounding the attack and whether additional individuals may have been involved.

ALLIANCE, Neb. — Law enforcement officials are investigating a shooting being treated as a murder-suicide that occurred Thursday morning in the 700 block of Big Horn Street in Alliance, Nebraska. The Alliance Police Department, in coordination with the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office, responded quickly to reports of gunfire at the residential location.

Upon arrival, officers found a woman deceased at the scene and a man alive but suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. The man was immediately transported to Box Butte General Hospital for treatment.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident may have been a murder-suicide, with initial findings indicating that the man shot the woman before turning the weapon on himself. Authorities are treating the case with the utmost seriousness and have launched a thorough investigation to confirm the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

Law enforcement officials have stated that this remains an active and ongoing investigation, and no further details are being released at this time. Officials are asking members of the public to avoid speculation and allow authorities to complete their work, as they continue to gather evidence, conduct interviews, and determine the exact sequence of events.

The Alliance Police Department and Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to the families involved, noting the tragedy of a situation that has left the community shaken. Residents are urged to reach out to support services if needed during this difficult time.

Authorities have assured the public that all leads and information will be thoroughly examined to provide clarity and ensure accountability. Additional updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.

TROY, Al — The Troy Police Department has announced multiple arrests in connection with a shooting that occurred on July 26, 2025, in the 100 block of Williams Street. The incident, which took place in the early morning hours at 12:29 a.m., prompted a swift response from local law enforcement.

On August 19, 2025, officers arrested 20-year-old Jaylin Collins of Troy and charged him with Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Vehicle. During the attempted arrest, Collins fled on foot while carrying a bag. In the course of the chase, he fell into a hole but was safely rescued by officers without injury. Upon inspecting the bag, law enforcement found a handgun, believed to have been used in the shooting incident.

In addition to Collins, two other suspects, both 17 years old, have also been taken into custody and charged with Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Vehicle. The arrests follow an extensive investigation conducted by the Troy Police Department, which included careful review of evidence and coordination among law enforcement units.

The department extended gratitude to partner agencies, referred to as “friends in red,” for their assistance in successfully apprehending the suspects.

Authorities emphasized that the investigation into the July 26 shooting remains a priority, and community members are encouraged to report any additional information related to the case. The Troy Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety, preventing gun violence, and holding those responsible accountable.

The arrests mark a significant step in resolving a dangerous situation that posed a serious threat to residents in the area. Officers continue to work diligently to ensure that all individuals involved in the incident are brought to justice.

SHREVEPORT, La. — The Shreveport Police Department has confirmed the arrest of Semaj Mitchell, the final suspect wanted in connection with the tragic shooting of 28-year-old Labriesha Patterson on August 18, 2025, in the 1600 block of Martin Luther King Drive. Mitchell has been formally charged with Second-Degree Murder for his role in Patterson’s death.

Investigators report that Mitchell sustained injuries during the incident, which are visible in his booking photograph. Authorities stated that these injuries reportedly occurred while Mitchell was hanging from the window of a moving vehicle and firing at Patterson’s vehicle. Following a subsequent crash, he fell and suffered additional injuries.

With Mitchell’s arrest, all four suspects in this case are now in custody:

• Deceldrion Gay (born April 4, 2006)
• Tywann Gipson (born April 3, 2008)
• Rodney Thomas Jr. (born September 12, 2005)
• Semaj Mitchell (arrested August 21, 2025)

“This case is an example of the relentless work of our detectives and specialized units,” said Chief Smith. “Through persistence and teamwork, every suspect involved in this senseless act of violence has been identified and taken into custody.”

The Shreveport Police Department emphasized its commitment to pursuing justice for victims and ensuring the safety of the community. The arrest of all four suspects is a significant step in resolving a case that shocked the city and drew widespread attention due to the violent circumstances surrounding Patterson’s death.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information related to the case to contact the Shreveport Police Department. Community cooperation remains essential in maintaining public safety and preventing further acts of violence.

Patterson’s family and the community are left to grieve the loss of a young woman whose life was cut short in a violent act. Law enforcement officials hope that the arrests bring some measure of justice and closure to those affected by this tragedy.

AKRON, Ohio — The Akron Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred today on the 200 block of Opportunity Parkway. According to authorities, officers responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 11:52 a.m. and found a 16-year-old male victim at the scene.

Preliminary details indicate that the teen was walking eastbound when an SUV pulled up, and a male suspect dressed in all black clothing exited the vehicle and opened fire on the victim. In a dramatic turn, the 16-year-old returned fire using his own firearm. Authorities have since confirmed that the gun in question had been reported stolen in a previous burglary. The suspect then fled the scene by reentering the passenger side of the SUV, which drove away in an unknown direction.

The victim sustained minor injuries and received treatment on site from EMS. Following the incident, he was transported to the Summit County Juvenile Detention Facility on weapons charges, highlighting the complex circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Police have not released further details about the identity of the suspect or the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and officers are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Citizens with information can contact the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at 330-375-2490 or 330-375-2Tip. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Summit County Crimestoppers by calling 330-434-COPS or texting TIPSCO to 274637.

The Akron Police Department continues to stress the importance of community cooperation in resolving violent incidents and ensuring the safety of residents. Investigators are actively reviewing evidence and speaking with witnesses in hopes of identifying and apprehending the suspect involved in the shooting.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities remind the public to remain cautious and report any relevant information immediately.

DUNCAN, S.C. – Authorities are on the scene of a reported shooting in Duncan, South Carolina, after a victim was located in the 120 block of Spartangreen Boulevard, just off Interstate 85.

The incident unfolded late Thursday, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement agencies. Officers were dispatched to the area following reports of gunfire, where they discovered at least one individual suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.

Emergency medical services were quickly called to the scene to render aid to the victim. At this time, officials have not released the condition of the individual, nor have they disclosed whether the person was transported to a nearby hospital.

Authorities have remained tight-lipped as the situation develops, stressing that information is still limited. It is not yet clear what led to the shooting, whether a suspect has been identified, or if the scene poses any ongoing threat to the public.

The location of the incident—near Spartangreen Boulevard, a busy area close to I-85—has raised concern among residents and commuters who frequent the corridor. Law enforcement has reportedly secured the immediate area as investigators work to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.

Community members have expressed unease as they await updates. Many noted that Spartangreen Boulevard, lined with apartments, businesses, and close to interstate access, is typically a high-traffic zone where a shooting is especially alarming.

The Duncan Police Department, alongside other assisting agencies, is expected to provide further details once the preliminary investigation progresses. For now, the public is urged to avoid the area if possible and to contact authorities with any information that could aid the investigation.

This is a developing story, and updates will be released as soon as additional information becomes available.