Double Homicide Investigation Launched After Fatal Morganton House Fire

MORGANTON, N.C. — Authorities in Burke County have confirmed that a deadly house fire on Swink Street earlier this week is now being investigated as a double homicide.

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the Burke County Sheriff’s Office identified the second victim as Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr., 76, of Morganton. Byrd’s death, along with that of Michael Curtis Hallyburton, 63, also of Morganton, has prompted officials to treat the case as a homicide rather than an accidental fire.

The incident began on Sunday, September 2, 2025, when emergency crews responded to the residential fire. Multiple agencies, including the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Burke County Fire Marshal’s Office, worked at the scene late into the night. After extinguishing the fire, responders discovered two deceased individuals inside the home.

Initially, only Hallyburton’s death was confirmed, with the second victim’s identity pending autopsy. Authorities have now confirmed that Joseph Kincaid Byrd, Jr. was the second victim. The cause of death for both individuals has not yet been released, and investigators are exploring whether the fire was intentionally set.

“This investigation remains active and ongoing,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Additional information will be released as necessary.”

Law enforcement is urging the public to provide any information that may help solve the case. Tips can be submitted by calling 828-764-9530 or via the Burke County Sheriff’s Office app.

The Morganton community is in shock, as Swink Street is typically a quiet residential area. Neighbors expressed grief over the loss of two longtime residents, while families continue to mourn and call for justice.

With Deep Sadness, Lauren Kisver Announces the Passing of Her Beloved Mother, Anne Kisver

With a heavy heart, I share that my beloved mom, Anne Kisver, passed away peacefully. Mom, I will miss you deeply. I imagine you taking your daily 5-mile walks, tending to your 81 boxwoods, shopping, gardening, teaching Spanish, and continuing to guide me. You taught me to spread my wings and fly, to be kind to all, help students thrive, and to always take risks. I’ll miss your little waves when saying goodbye, feeding you ice cream (your favorite!), your bright smile, and how you whispered “I love you” despite your pain. I love you forever.

I am grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends and family:

• Charles Kerchner: “So sorry for your loss, Lauren! Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.”

• Christina Calvert Smith: “🤍 Sending you and your family the biggest hug and lots of love. Thinking of you all 🤍”

• Rebecca Ryan Caruso: “Dear Lauren, I hope the photos you shared are just a glimpse of the beautiful life your mom led and why you are so amazing today! Big hugs to your family! 🤗🙏🏻”

• Jonathan James: “I am so sorry for your loss, Lauren. My condolences to you and your family. ❤️”

Your kind words, love, and prayers mean the world to me and my family during this difficult time. Thank you for helping us honor her memory.

Motorcyclist Airlifted After Serious Crash in Neelyville
September 5, 2025 – Neelyville, Missouri

A serious traffic crash on U.S. Highway 67 in Neelyville on Wednesday evening, September 3, left a 27-year-old motorcyclist critically injured and requiring emergency air transport to a hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

According to Sgt. Clark Parrott of the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), the collision involved a motorcycle and a pickup truck. Preliminary reports indicate that the motorcyclist, identified as Tyler Anderson, was traveling southbound when his motorcycle struck the rear of a pickup truck driven by a 46-year-old local man. The truck sustained minor damage, and its driver was unharmed.

Emergency responders arrived quickly to provide first aid and stabilize Anderson before arranging for an air ambulance to transport him for advanced medical care. Sgt. Parrott noted that Anderson was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, a precaution that may have prevented a fatal outcome. Despite this, the impact caused significant trauma, and the motorcycle was completely destroyed.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. While it is confirmed that Anderson struck the rear of the pickup, investigators have not yet determined whether factors such as speed, roadway conditions, or visibility contributed to the incident.

Traffic along U.S. 67 was temporarily slowed while troopers worked to clear the crash site. Authorities are reminding drivers to maintain safe following distances and exercise caution when sharing the road with motorcycles, which are particularly vulnerable to sudden stops and collisions with larger vehicles.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks motorcyclists face on highways and underscores the importance of defensive driving and road safety awareness for all motorists.

BREAKING: Man Shot and Killed Near Moore Elementary in Northwest Harris County
September 5, 2025 – Harris County, Texas

Authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday night near Moore Elementary School in northwest Harris County.

According to deputies, initial bystanders at the scene believed the man had been struck by a vehicle. However, upon closer inspection, it became clear that the man had suffered a gunshot wound. Emergency responders arrived on the scene, but the victim was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Details about the victim’s identity, the circumstances leading up to the shooting, and a potential suspect have not yet been released. Deputies are actively investigating the incident.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

This tragic event has left the local community shaken, particularly given its proximity to a school.

Fatal Crash on Cleveland Road Claims Life of Wooster Woman
September 5, 2025 – Canaan Township, Ohio

A tragic three-vehicle crash on State Route 3 (Cleveland Road) in Canaan Township, Wayne County, claimed the life of a Wooster woman on Thursday evening, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).

The incident occurred just south of milepost 24 at approximately 8:00 p.m., when the Wooster Post of the OSHP received a report of a serious traffic collision involving three vehicles.

Preliminary investigations indicate that a 2010 Nissan Sentra, operated by 31-year-old Imogene Osborne of Wooster, was traveling southbound when it crossed left of center. The vehicle struck a northbound 2024 International Semi-Truck and trailer driven by 61-year-old David B. McQuillen of Ashland. The impact caused Osborne’s vehicle to become airborne and overturn, eventually colliding with a 2015 GMC Sierra HD pickup driven by 19-year-old Connor J. Schaffer of Creston, who was pulling an empty horse trailer.

Tragically, Osborne was pronounced dead at the scene by the Wayne County Coroner’s Office. Authorities confirmed that she was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. Both McQuillen and Schaffer were also wearing seatbelts and did not sustain any injuries.

The crash scene required the assistance of multiple agencies, including the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Canaan Township Fire and EMS, Central Fire and EMS, the Ohio Department of Transportation, the Wayne County Coroner’s Office, and Bear’s Towing.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Officials have not released any additional information regarding contributing factors at this time.

The community mourns the loss of Imogene Osborne, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to the crash to contact the OSHP Wooster Post.

Scottsdale Police Searching for Suspect in Labor Day Killing

SCOTTSDALE, AZ — Scottsdale authorities are actively searching for 35-year-old Matthew Dieringer, who is suspected of killing 67-year-old Frank Quaranta in his home on Labor Day.

Police were called to a residence near 68th Street and McDowell Road around 1:30 p.m. Monday for a welfare check after Quaranta failed to report to work. Upon arrival, officers were unable to make contact with Quaranta and were forced to enter the home. Inside, they discovered Quaranta deceased. Authorities have not released the cause of death.

Dieringer, who has a history of homelessness, is described by police as “manipulative and charismatic,” often befriending others to secure temporary housing. Scottsdale PD has issued a warning to the public: anyone who sees Dieringer should not approach him and should immediately call 911.

The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement works to locate Dieringer and determine the circumstances surrounding Quaranta’s death.

Authorities have released a photo of the suspect and are urging anyone with information to contact Scottsdale Police immediately.

14-Year-Old Allegedly Kills Gang Leader, Injures Toddler in Shocking Atlantis Shooting

ATLANTIS — A shocking act of violence involving children unfolded in Atlantis when a 14-year-old boy allegedly shot and killed a local gang leader and injured a 4-year-old toddler, authorities confirmed. The incident has left the community stunned and raised serious concerns about youth involvement in violent crime.

According to police reports, the shooting occurred in broad daylight in a residential area, where tensions linked to gang activity had been escalating. The 14-year-old suspect reportedly fired multiple rounds, fatally striking the gang leader and injuring the toddler, who was immediately transported to a nearby hospital and is reportedly in stable condition.

Officials emphasized the unprecedented nature of the crime, noting that it is extremely rare for someone so young to carry out lethal violence. Law enforcement agencies are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including potential gang ties and how the teenager obtained a firearm.

“The fact that a child this young could be involved in such a deadly incident is deeply concerning,” said a spokesperson for the Atlantis Police Department. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation and ensuring that justice is served while addressing the broader safety issues in our community.”

The 14-year-old is currently in police custody. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the teen will face charges in juvenile or adult court, but legal experts say cases of this severity often trigger intense debate about juvenile accountability and community safety measures.

Community members expressed shock and grief over the events, with many calling for urgent action to prevent children from gaining access to firearms and becoming involved in violent crime. Local organizations and leaders have vowed to increase programs aimed at youth intervention, mentorship, and violence prevention.

The shooting has ignited discussions about the increasing involvement of minors in gang-related activity and the urgent need for policy responses to curb gun violence among youth.

Authorities continue to investigate, and additional details are expected as the situation develops.

Gaza Journalist Mariam Dagga Leaves Final Message for Son Before Death in Hospital Attack

Gaza City, August 25, 2025 — Mariam Dagga, a Palestinian journalist covering events in Gaza, was tragically killed in an Israeli attack on Nasser Hospital on August 25. Known for her courage and dedication to reporting from conflict zones, Dagga had anticipated the risks of her profession and took steps to leave a final message for her loved ones.

Before her death, Dagga entrusted a written will to a close friend, an NBC News cameraman, instructing that it be shared publicly in the event that she did not survive. The document included a heartfelt message to her 13-year-old son, Gaith, expressing love, hope, and guidance for his future.

Dagga’s message reflects both the personal and professional challenges she faced as a journalist reporting from a region under constant threat. Friends and colleagues describe her as fearless, compassionate, and deeply committed to telling the stories of those affected by conflict.

Her death has prompted widespread grief across the journalistic community and the Gaza Strip, highlighting the dangers faced by reporters in conflict zones and the sacrifices they make to ensure that the world witnesses the realities of war.

The NBC News cameraman, honoring Dagga’s wishes, has shared portions of her will with international media, ensuring that her words to Gaith and her family are preserved. Many have noted that her final message underscores the human cost of the ongoing conflict, particularly for children like Gaith who are left to cope with the loss of a parent.

Suspect Identified in Fatal Shooting of 16-Year-Old Daquavius Royalston in Atlanta

ATLANTA — Atlanta police have identified Quinterrious Kyson Turner as the suspect wanted in connection with the shooting death of 16-year-old Daquavius Royalston, who was tragically killed while returning to his own home over Labor Day weekend.

The Shooting

The incident occurred at a townhouse community on Mulberry Row in southeast Atlanta. According to police, Royalston was trying to enter his residence when Turner allegedly fired, mistakenly believing the teenager was an intruder.

Royalston’s mother, Kelsea Royalston, described the loss as “unbearable” and said she is still struggling to comprehend how her son, simply returning home, could be killed in such a senseless act.

“Daquavius was just coming back to his house,” Kelsea said. “He wasn’t hurting anyone. He didn’t deserve this.”

Suspect Details

Authorities say Quinterrious Kyson Turner is still at large. Turner has a criminal history, including recent time served for aggravated battery, according to public records. Police have not yet disclosed whether Turner has been linked to other incidents in the area.

Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about Turner’s whereabouts to contact the Atlanta Police Department immediately.

Community Reaction

The community has been deeply affected by the teenager’s death. Residents gathered at Pittman Park in southwest Atlanta to honor Daquavius’ life, leaving flowers, candles, and personal messages in his memory. Friends and neighbors described him as a bright, caring, and promising young man whose life was tragically cut short.

“He was a good kid. Always smiling, always polite,” said a friend who attended the vigil. “It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”

Community leaders have also called for greater safety measures in the area, emphasizing the need to protect children and young adults from violence. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of how vulnerable our youth are,” one advocate said. “We need to ensure our neighborhoods are safe for families.”

Investigation

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While the motive appears to have been a mistaken identity, officers are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to gather additional evidence.

Authorities remind residents to report any information that could help locate Turner and prevent further tragedy.

Remembering Daquavius

Daquavius Royalston is remembered as a loving son, a devoted friend, and a vibrant teenager with a bright future ahead. His family, friends, and the broader Atlanta community continue to mourn his loss, reflecting on the senselessness of the crime.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities hope that the public will assist in bringing Turner to justice, while the community seeks ways to honor the memory of a young life lost too soon.