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  • In Loving Memory of Leslie Brown

    In Loving Memory of Leslie Brown

    In Loving Memory of Leslie Brown

    February 27, 2026

    With heavy hearts, the community of Bozeman mourns the tragic loss of Leslie Brown, 39, whose life was taken far too soon following a motor vehicle accident on the morning of Thursday, February 26, 2026.

    According to Dan Springer, the Gallatin County Coroner’s Office, alongside the Bozeman Police Department, responded to a fatal crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian at the intersection of West Oak Street and Agate Avenue. Leslie was transported to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center, where despite medical efforts, she was sadly pronounced deceased.

    Sheriff Springer extended his deepest condolences to Leslie’s family and friends — a sentiment that echoes throughout the entire Bozeman community.

    Leslie Brown was more than the victim of a tragic accident. She was a daughter, a friend, a neighbor, and a vibrant presence in the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. At just 39 years old, she had already woven herself into the fabric of her community, building relationships and creating memories that will not be forgotten.

    Those who loved Leslie remember her for her warmth and compassion. She had a way of making people feel seen and valued, offering kindness in both grand gestures and quiet, everyday moments. Whether through her laughter shared with friends, her dedication to her work, or the simple act of walking through her neighborhood streets, Leslie carried a spirit that reflected strength and grace.

    Her passing has left an immeasurable void. The intersection of West Oak Street and Agate Avenue will forever hold a somber significance for those who now associate it with profound loss. Yet even in tragedy, Leslie’s life stands as a reminder of the importance of community, empathy, and cherishing the time we have with one another.

    In moments like these, words often feel inadequate. Grief arrives in waves — disbelief, sorrow, reflection — but so too does gratitude for having known someone who made a difference. Leslie’s legacy will live on in the stories shared around dinner tables, in the tears shed by loved ones, and in the quiet strength of a family leaning on one another for support.

    As the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring Leslie’s memory and supporting those she leaves behind. May her loved ones find comfort in one another, and may the community of Bozeman surround them with compassion and care.

    Rest peacefully, Leslie Brown. You were deeply loved, and you will be profoundly missed.

  • In Loving Memory of Kelly Wooten and Jacklyn Bradley

    In Loving Memory of Kelly Wooten and Jacklyn Bradley

    In Loving Memory of Kelly Wooten and Jacklyn Bradley

    WADSWORTH, Ill. — With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we remember and honor the lives of Kelly Wooten, 51, and Jacklyn Bradley, 45, both of Stoughton, Wisconsin, who tragically lost their lives in a devastating three-vehicle crash on Thursday morning.

    According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the collision occurred at approximately 7:05 a.m. along Route 173, just west of North Kilbourne Road in Wadsworth. Deputies, alongside Newport Township Fire crews, responded swiftly to reports of a serious head-on crash involving a sedan, a semi-truck, and a minivan.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that a 2009 Acura sedan, driven by Kelly Wooten, was traveling eastbound when witnesses observed the vehicle appearing unable to maintain its lane. The sedan drifted into oncoming traffic and into the path of a westbound Freightliner semi-truck operated by a 25-year-old driver from Evergreen Park. The impact was catastrophic. Moments later, an eastbound Honda minivan driven by a 54-year-old Wisconsin woman collided with the Acura.

    Kelly Wooten and his front-seat passenger, Jacklyn Bradley, were pronounced dead at the scene. The Lake County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that both died from blunt force injuries sustained in the crash.

    The driver of the Honda minivan was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while the semi-truck driver was physically unharmed. Yet even for those who survived, the emotional toll of such a tragedy is immeasurable.

    Remembering Kelly Wooten

    Kelly Wooten was more than the circumstances of his passing. He was a son, a friend, a neighbor, and a member of the Stoughton community whose presence mattered. At 51 years old, Kelly carried a lifetime of experiences, stories, and relationships that shaped the lives of those around him.

    Those who knew Kelly speak of his steady spirit and the quiet strength he brought into every room. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his time spent with loved ones, he embodied dedication and sincerity. His loss leaves a space that cannot be filled — a silence where laughter and conversation once lived.

    Remembering Jacklyn Bradley

    Jacklyn Bradley, 45, was a woman whose warmth and kindness touched countless lives. She was known for her compassion, her vibrant personality, and her unwavering care for the people she loved.

    Jacklyn had a way of making others feel seen and valued. Her smile carried comfort, and her presence brought light into even the most ordinary days. She was a cherished daughter, sister, friend, and companion — someone whose love radiated outward in quiet but powerful ways.

    Her sudden passing leaves family and friends grappling with a heartbreak that words can scarcely express.

    A Community in Mourning

    The tragedy has deeply affected not only the families of Kelly and Jacklyn but also the broader communities of Stoughton, Wisconsin, and Wadsworth, Illinois. Accidents such as this serve as sobering reminders of how fragile life can be — how an ordinary morning commute can turn into unimaginable loss.

    As loved ones gather to mourn, they also gather to remember: to share stories, to hold onto cherished memories, and to honor two lives that mattered profoundly.

    Honoring Their Legacy

    Though their lives were cut short, Kelly Wooten and Jacklyn Bradley leave behind legacies woven through the hearts of those who knew them. In every shared memory, in every lesson passed down, and in every act of kindness inspired by their lives, they continue to live on.

    May their families find comfort in one another.

    May their friends hold tight to the memories that bring warmth amid sorrow.

    And may Kelly and Jacklyn rest in eternal peace, forever remembered and forever loved.

  • In Loving Memory of Claude Krieger

    In Loving Memory of Claude Krieger

    In Loving Memory of Claude Krieger

    The community of Rochester and the surrounding areas are mourning the tragic loss of Claude Krieger, 77, of Red Creek, whose life was taken far too suddenly in a devastating crash on Friday morning. What began as an ordinary day turned into one marked by heartbreak along State Route 104 in Sodus.

    According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched just after 7:00 a.m. to State Route 104, just east of State Route 14, following reports of a two-car collision. Early findings indicate that Mr. Krieger was traveling eastbound when his vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with another car. Despite the swift response of first responders, Claude Krieger was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The driver of the second vehicle had to be extricated from the wreckage and was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital for treatment of a head injury. The crash remains under active investigation as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

    While the details of that morning are still being reviewed, what remains certain is that a family has lost a beloved father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor. At 77 years old, Claude Krieger carried with him a lifetime of memories, experiences, and relationships that shaped the lives of those around him. In small, close-knit communities like Red Creek and Sodus, lives are intertwined in meaningful ways — through shared stories, handshakes, familiar waves across the street, and years of quiet kindness.

    Claude’s passing is more than a headline; it is a profound personal loss. For those who knew him, he was more than a name in a report. He was a presence — someone whose voice, laughter, and steady spirit filled rooms and hearts alike. Whether through conversations at the local store, time spent with family, or the simple routines of daily life, Claude’s impact was felt in ways both big and small.

    Tragic accidents such as this remind us of how fragile life can be. In a single moment, everything can change. They urge us to hold our loved ones a little closer, to speak words of appreciation more often, and to cherish the time we are given.

    As the investigation continues, the focus for many now turns to honoring Claude’s memory. May his family find strength in one another during this unimaginable time. May friends and neighbors surround them with compassion, prayers, and support. And may Claude Krieger be remembered not for the circumstances of his passing, but for the years he lived, the love he gave, and the legacy he leaves behind.

    Our hearts are with his loved ones and with all those affected by this tragic crash. May he rest in eternal peace.

  • In Loving Memory of Anthony Walker Jr

    In Loving Memory of Anthony Walker Jr

    In Loving Memory of Anthony Walker Jr

    With heavy hearts, we pause to remember and honor the life of Anthony Walker Jr., whose life was tragically taken in the early hours of Friday morning. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. Though his time on this earth was cut short, the impact he made will not be forgotten.

    According to the Springfield Police Department, officers and medics were dispatched to the 1700 block of Maiden Lane at approximately 12:58 a.m. following reports of a shooting. Sgt. James Byron confirmed that when first responders arrived, they discovered a deceased male at the scene. Authorities believe the incident to be isolated, and further information is expected as the investigation continues.

    Behind the headlines and flashing lights was a man whose life mattered deeply. Anthony Walker Jr. was more than a name in a report — he was a son, a family member, a friend, and a member of the community. He was someone who shared laughter, created memories, and left impressions on the lives he touched. Those who knew Anthony remember his presence, his personality, and the everyday moments that now feel priceless.

    In times like these, grief can feel overwhelming. The suddenness of loss leaves questions unanswered and hearts searching for comfort. Yet even in sorrow, we hold tightly to the memories that cannot be taken away — the conversations, the smiles, the shared experiences that defined Anthony’s life.

    As investigators continue their work, the community stands united in mourning. While authorities work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event, loved ones focus on remembering the man Anthony was and the legacy he leaves behind.

    We extend our deepest condolences to Anthony Walker Jr.’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. May they find strength in one another, comfort in cherished memories, and peace in knowing that his life, however brief, carried meaning and value.

    Rest in peace, Anthony Walker Jr. You will be remembered.

  • In Loving Memory of Tristen Till

    In Loving Memory of Tristen Till

    In Loving Memory of Tristen Till

    CORUNNA, Ind. — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the entire community mourn the tragic loss of Tristen Till, 28, of Waterloo, whose life was taken far too soon in a devastating crash early Friday morning in DeKalb County.

    According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department, the accident occurred shortly before 5 a.m. on U.S. 6 just west of County Road 19, east of Corunna. In the quiet hours before sunrise, a collision changed lives forever. A preliminary investigation determined that a westbound car veered into the eastbound lane, colliding head-on with a pickup truck. The impact was catastrophic.

    Tristen’s vehicle came to rest on the berm and caught fire. Emergency responders arrived swiftly and worked to extinguish the flames. Despite their efforts, Tristen was removed from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The pickup truck involved in the crash rolled and came to rest upright in a nearby ditch. Its driver, though shaken and sore, declined medical treatment.

    The crash forced the closure of U.S. 6 for several hours as investigators worked to piece together the details of the tragedy and ensure the safety of the roadway.

    But beyond the flashing lights, the investigative reports, and the road closures, there is a deeper story — the story of a young man whose life mattered.

    At just 28 years old, Tristen Till had dreams still unfolding and chapters yet to be written. He was a son, a friend, a neighbor — someone whose presence brought meaning to those who knew him. In Waterloo and the surrounding communities, his name will not be remembered for the circumstances of his passing, but for the life he lived.

    Those who loved Tristen speak of his spirit — the conversations shared, the laughter exchanged, the everyday moments that now feel priceless. Whether through a simple smile, a helping hand, or quiet companionship, he left an imprint on hearts that will never fade.

    Tragedies like this remind us how fragile life can be. A routine drive before dawn became a moment that altered families forever. As the community grieves, many are holding Tristen’s loved ones close in prayer, thought, and support, hoping to offer comfort in a time of unimaginable sorrow.

    In the days ahead, there will be services, gatherings, and shared memories. Stories will be told — of who Tristen was, what he loved, and the joy he brought into the world. Though his life ended far too soon, the love surrounding him endures.

    As Waterloo and DeKalb County reflect on this heartbreaking loss, may we all be reminded to cherish one another more deeply, to drive carefully, and to hold tight to those we love.

    Rest peacefully, Tristen Till.

    You will be missed more than words can ever express, but remembered always with love.

  • In Loving Memory of Jeaniettra Avonne Jones

    In Loving Memory of Jeaniettra Avonne Jones

    In Loving Memory of Jeaniettra Avonne Jones

    Moncks Corner, South Carolina — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the entire community mourn the tragic and untimely passing of Jeaniettra Avonne Jones, 34, whose life was taken far too soon in a fatal auto versus pedestrian accident on North Highway 52 in Bonneau during the early morning hours of February 27, 2026.

    According to the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office, authorities were notified at approximately 3:10 a.m. of the devastating incident. Jeaniettra was pronounced deceased at the scene as a result of the severe injuries she sustained. The loss has sent shockwaves through Moncks Corner and the surrounding Berkeley County community, leaving many struggling to comprehend the suddenness of this heartbreaking tragedy.

    Emergency personnel from the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Highway Patrol, Berkeley County Emergency Medical Services, and North Berkeley Fire & Rescue responded swiftly to the scene, working diligently and professionally in the midst of difficult circumstances. The incident remains under active investigation by the Coroner’s Office and the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

    But beyond the reports and official statements is a life — a vibrant, meaningful life — that touched countless hearts.

    A Life Remembered

    Jeaniettra Avonne Jones was more than a name in a report. She was a daughter, a friend, a neighbor, and a cherished member of her community. At 34 years old, she had already built a life filled with connections, laughter, and love. Those who knew her describe her as warm-hearted, resilient, and compassionate — someone who showed up for others without hesitation.

    Her smile had a way of brightening rooms. Her presence brought comfort. Whether through kind words, shared laughter, or simple gestures of care, Jeaniettra left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

    A Community in Mourning

    The tragedy along North Highway 52 has deeply affected residents of Moncks Corner and Bonneau. Fatal pedestrian accidents are especially heartbreaking, as they often unfold in a matter of seconds yet leave lifelong impacts. Today, the community stands united in grief, offering prayers, love, and support to Jeaniettra’s family during this unimaginable time.

    As investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision, loved ones are focused on remembering the woman behind the headlines — a life that mattered, a spirit that shined, and a story that will never be forgotten.

    Honoring Her Memory

    In moments like these, words feel small in comparison to the loss. Yet remembrance is powerful. It keeps a person’s legacy alive in conversations, in shared memories, and in the love that continues long after they are gone.

    Jeaniettra’s life reminds us of the fragility of each day and the importance of holding our loved ones close. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her — in the stories they tell, the laughter they recall, and the quiet moments when they reflect on her impact.

    To her family, may you find strength in the love that surrounds you.

    To her friends, may her memory bring both tears and smiles.

    To the community, may we continue to support one another in compassion and unity.

    Rest peacefully, Jeaniettra Avonne Jones. You are loved. You are missed. You will never be forgotten.

  • In Loving Memory of Ray and Beverly Drzewiecki

    In Loving Memory of Ray and Beverly Drzewiecki

    In Loving Memory of Ray and Beverly Drzewiecki

    FENTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. — In the stillness of early Thursday morning, a devastating fire claimed the lives of two beloved members of the community, leaving neighbors heartbroken and a family forever changed. Ray Drzewiecki, 66, and his wife, Beverly Drzewiecki, 64, were found inside their home after it became engulfed in flames in the 3100 block of Ponemah Drive, across from the south shore of Lake Ponemah.

    According to authorities, the fire was reported around 5:20 a.m., prompting a rapid response from local emergency crews. By the time firefighters arrived, the house was consumed by heavy flames. Despite their efforts and the eventual containment of the fire, Ray and Beverly were discovered inside the home they had built their lives in together. Several of their beloved dogs were also found deceased, a heartbreaking detail that speaks to the deep bond the couple shared with their pets.

    Chris Swanson, Sheriff of Genesee County, confirmed that the couple’s bodies were transported to the Genesee County Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsies to help determine the exact cause of death. “We know something happened inside,” Swanson said. “We are trying to find out what those answers are, so it’s going to take some time.” He also assured the public that there is no ongoing danger to the Fenton community.

    While investigators work carefully to uncover what led to this tragic event, those who knew Ray and Beverly are left reflecting not on the flames, but on the warmth they brought into the lives of others.

    Ray Drzewiecki was known as a steady and dependable presence — someone who offered a helping hand without hesitation and whose quiet strength spoke volumes. Beverly Drzewiecki carried a spirit of kindness and compassion, especially evident in her love for animals. Their home near Lake Ponemah was more than just a residence; it was a sanctuary filled with laughter, loyalty, and the joyful energy of their dogs. The couple’s devotion to their pets reflected the tenderness and care that defined their lives together.

    Married for many years, Ray and Beverly built a partnership rooted in love and shared purpose. They were the kind of couple neighbors admired — always together, always supportive, always ready with a friendly greeting. Whether tending to their home, enjoying the beauty of the lake nearby, or spending time with their animals, they lived a life of quiet fulfillment and connection.

    The loss of their dogs alongside them adds another layer of sorrow to an already heartbreaking tragedy. For those who understand the unconditional love between people and their pets, it is a painful reminder of how deeply intertwined their lives were. They were a family in every sense of the word.

    As autopsies and investigations continue, the focus for their loved ones remains on honoring their memory. Grief now fills the spaces where warmth once lived. A driveway sits empty. A porch light no longer flickers on in the early dawn. Yet memories endure — of shared holidays, of backyard conversations, of loyal companionship and steadfast love.

    The Fenton Township community mourns alongside the Drzewiecki family. In moments like this, neighbors draw closer, offering prayers, comfort, and support to one another. Though the cause of the fire is still under investigation, what remains certain is the impact Ray and Beverly had on the lives around them.

    Today, we remember Ray Drzewiecki and Beverly Drzewiecki not for the tragedy that ended their lives, but for the years they lived with devotion, kindness, and love. May their souls rest in peace. May their family find strength in the days ahead. And may the memory of their bond — with each other and with their cherished pets — forever shine brighter than the flames that took them too soon.

  • In Loving Memory of Dale Bradley

    In Loving Memory of Dale Bradley

    In Loving Memory of Dale Bradley

    CHARLOTTE HALL, Md. — In the quiet early hours of Thursday, February 26, 2026, tragedy struck along Maryland Route 234, also known as Budds Creek Road, near Stines Store Road. What began as an ordinary morning for many became a heartbreaking moment for the family and loved ones of 72-year-old Dale Bradley of King George, Virginia.

    At approximately 6 a.m., troopers from the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack, alongside deputies from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office, responded to reports of a serious motor vehicle collision. Due to the severity of the incident, the Maryland State Police CRASH Team was called to assume the investigation and carefully piece together the circumstances surrounding the crash.

    Preliminary findings indicate that a 2016 Mazda 6, operated by 22-year-old Nathan Cooper of Mechanicsville, Maryland, was traveling westbound on Maryland Route 234. At the same time, Mr. Bradley was driving his 2000 Chevrolet Blazer eastbound along the same stretch of road. For reasons that remain under investigation, the Mazda reportedly crossed the centerline and collided head-on with Mr. Bradley’s vehicle.

    Despite the swift response of first responders and emergency personnel, Dale Bradley was pronounced deceased at the scene. The suddenness of his passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community members who knew and loved him.

    Dale Bradley was more than the circumstances of that tragic morning. At 72 years old, he carried a lifetime of experiences, memories, and relationships. He was a man who had seen decades of change, who had built connections and made an impact in ways both big and small. Whether as a devoted family member, a loyal friend, a neighbor, or a colleague, his presence mattered. His wisdom, stories, and steady spirit were gifts to those around him.

    For his loved ones, the pain of loss is immeasurable. A chair now sits empty at family gatherings. Conversations once filled with his voice now echo with cherished memories. The routines of daily life are forever altered. Yet even in grief, there is gratitude — gratitude for the years shared, the laughter exchanged, and the love that endures beyond a single moment in time.

    Meanwhile, Nathan Cooper was transported by helicopter to Capital Region Hospital in Largo, Maryland, by the Maryland State Police Aviation Command’s Trooper 7, suffering serious but non-life-threatening injuries. As investigators continue their work, the focus remains on understanding exactly what occurred on that stretch of road.

    This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly circumstances can change. Each day is precious. Every journey, no matter how routine, carries value because of the lives behind the wheel.

    Today, we remember Dale Bradley not solely for the tragedy that claimed him, but for the life he lived. We remember a man who reached 72 years with stories untold, lessons learned, and love given. We honor his memory by holding his family close in prayer and thought, by driving with greater care and compassion, and by cherishing those we hold dear.

    May his soul rest in eternal peace. May his family find strength in one another. And may the legacy of his life — the kindness he showed, the moments he shared, and the love he gave — continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

  • In Honor of Sergeant First Class David Allen

    In Honor of Sergeant First Class David Allen

    In Honor of Sergeant First Class David Allen

    Today, a chair sits empty at the Luchals dinner table, and our hearts are heavy with both grief and gratitude. We pause not only to mourn a tremendous loss, but to honor a life of service, leadership, and lasting impact. Today we recognize the extraordinary legacy of Sergeant First Class David Allen — a decorated Army Chef, mentor, and leader whose influence shaped thousands of culinary Soldiers and forever elevated the standard of excellence within the United States Army.

    SFC David Allen was far more than a master of his craft. As a proud 92G — an Army Culinary Specialist — he embodied what it meant to serve with precision, discipline, and pride. Throughout his distinguished military career, he trained and developed generations of culinary professionals, leaving an indelible mark on the Army’s food service community. His impact was not confined to a single duty station or class of Soldiers; it was far-reaching, extending across installations, competitions, and kitchens around the world.

    During his time at Fort Carson, SFC Allen played a pivotal role in shaping and mentoring countless Soldiers. His kitchens were not merely places where meals were prepared — they were classrooms of leadership. Standards were high. Expectations were clear. Growth was not optional; it was required. He demanded excellence not to intimidate, but to prepare. He understood that discipline in the kitchen translated to discipline in life and on the battlefield.

    He taught far more than recipes, knife skills, or plating techniques. He instilled accountability when no one was watching. He built resilience in the face of pressure. He cultivated integrity in every action. He reinforced that pride in the craft was not arrogance — it was respect for the uniform, the mission, and the Soldiers being served. Under his leadership, culinary competitions were not simply events; they were opportunities to sharpen discipline, teamwork, and confidence.

    Among those profoundly influenced by his mentorship was Chef Lucas, who had the distinct honor of training directly under SFC Allen’s leadership. Competing together in American Culinary Federation Army culinary competitions and serving side by side in uniform, SFC Allen helped mold and refine the very foundation that shaped Chef Lucas into the chef and leader she is today. His guidance was steady. His expectations were unwavering. His belief in developing others was intentional and deeply personal.

    The standards upheld at Luchals — precision, consistency, integrity, and leading from the front — are not accidental. They are deeply rooted in the military training, discipline, and example set by SFC Allen. Every dish executed with care reflects the lessons he taught. Every service delivered with excellence echoes his voice. Every leader developed within the organization carries forward a piece of his mentorship.

    His influence extended beyond technique. He built confidence in young Soldiers who doubted themselves. He corrected with purpose, praised with sincerity, and led with authenticity. He understood that leadership was not about rank alone — it was about responsibility. Responsibility to train. Responsibility to protect standards. Responsibility to leave people better than you found them.

    Today, though a seat at the table remains empty, his presence is still felt. It is felt in the cadence of a well-run kitchen. It is felt in the quiet focus before a service begins. It is felt in the pride of a Soldier standing tall in uniform. His legacy lives on in every 92G he trained, every competition team he prepared, and every kitchen influenced by his unwavering commitment to excellence.

    Sergeant First Class David Allen’s life was one of service — to his country, to his Soldiers, and to his craft. His leadership built more than skilled chefs; it built disciplined professionals and confident leaders. His standards remain the benchmark. His mentorship remains the blueprint.

    We honor him not only with words, but with action — by upholding the standards he demanded, by leading as he led, and by serving with the same pride and integrity he exemplified every day.

    Rest easy, Sergeant First Class David Allen.

    Your watch may be over, but your legacy continues in every kitchen you shaped and every life you touched.

  • Pueblo Police Seek Leandro Medina in Fatal Shooting That Killed Evie Jesica Gallegos, 20

    Pueblo Police Seek Leandro Medina in Fatal Shooting That Killed Evie Jesica Gallegos, 20

    The city of Pueblo is once again facing heartbreak after a tragic shooting claimed the life of a young woman and left another person injured in the early morning hours of February 26, marking the community’s second homicide of 2026.

    Just before 3:30 a.m., officers with the Pueblo Police Department were dispatched to reports of shots fired in the 2800 block of East 14th Street. When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered a devastating scene. Inside the home, a 20-year-old woman was found deceased. Another individual was located suffering from at least one gunshot wound.

    The woman who lost her life has been identified as Evie Jesica Gallegos, 20, of Pueblo. According to the Pueblo County Coroner’s Office, her exact cause and manner of death remain pending as autopsy results are completed. Authorities confirmed that her next of kin has been notified.

    The second victim was transported to a local hospital and is expected to survive, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries. While one life was tragically cut short, another now carries the physical and emotional scars of a violent act that has shaken the neighborhood.

    As the investigation unfolded, detectives identified a suspect and moved swiftly to secure an arrest warrant. Authorities have named Leandro Medina, 20, in connection with the shooting. He is facing charges of first-degree murder and first-degree assault. At this time, Medina is not in custody. Law enforcement officials have stated that he should be considered armed and dangerous.

    Police are actively searching for Medina and are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward. Community members are advised not to approach him and instead contact law enforcement immediately if he is seen.

    The loss of Evie Jesica Gallegos has left family, friends, and neighbors grieving deeply. At just 20 years old, she had her entire future ahead of her — dreams yet to be fulfilled, milestones yet to be reached. Her passing is not just a statistic in a police report but a profound human loss that ripples through every life she touched.

    As Pueblo grapples with this tragedy, many are calling for justice and for an end to the violence that has affected far too many families. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue working to ensure accountability in this case.

    Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Pueblo Police Department or submit tips anonymously through local crime reporting services.

    In moments like these, a community’s strength is tested — not only in its pursuit of justice but in its ability to support those left behind, to remember the life lost, and to stand united against violence.