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Fahey Links Daniel Penny Case to Shocking Murder of Iryna Zarutska

Jonathan Fahey says one of the first names that came to mind after learning of Iryna Zarutska’s brutal murder was Daniel Penny — a comparison that has already sparked debate and deepened public tension around crime, justice, and accountability in America.

Zarutska’s killing, which has shaken her community, immediately raised questions about public safety, self-defense, and whether ordinary citizens should step in when systems fail. Fahey’s reference to Penny — the former Marine charged after a deadly subway confrontation in New York — drew instant reactions. To some, Penny represents a controversial figure: a man hailed by supporters as a hero who acted in defense of others, but condemned by critics as an example of vigilantism gone too far.

On social media, the reactions came fast. “We need more of the Daniel Pennys in this country,” one commenter wrote, while another insisted, “Each case should be judged on its own facts and merits.” Others pointed to systemic issues, lamenting repeat offenders who slip through cracks in the justice system, only to return to the streets with tragic results.

For many, Fahey’s remarks struck a nerve because they highlight an uncomfortable truth — the line between protection and punishment is often blurred. Zarutska’s death is now at the center of that moral storm, leaving a community demanding justice and a nation once again wrestling with the question: Who is responsible for keeping people safe when the system falls short?

Trump Announces Release of Princeton Student Elizabeth Tsurkov After Two-Year Captivity

Former President Donald Trump revealed Tuesday that Princeton doctoral student Elizabeth Tsurkov has been released after being held captive for more than two years by Kata’ib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S.

Tsurkov, a Russian-Israeli dual citizen, was abducted in Baghdad in 2023 while conducting dissertation research. She had reportedly traveled to Iraq alone, entering the country with her Russian passport. According to Trump’s post on Truth Social, Tsurkov was “just released” and is now safe inside the American Embassy in Iraq.

“I will always fight for JUSTICE, and never give up,” Trump wrote. “HAMAS, RELEASE THE HOSTAGES, NOW!”

The former president emphasized that Tsurkov endured torture during her captivity, though her current medical condition has not been disclosed.

Tsurkov’s case drew international attention, with human rights groups and academic institutions calling for her release. In 2023, rallies were held in Gaza City by the Palestinian Prisoners Committee, demanding her freedom in exchange for Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons.

On Tuesday night, Fox News panelists Dr. Sheila Nazarian, Shirin Yadegar, and Rabbi Chaim Mentz discussed the breakthrough, linking it to broader hostage negotiations amid ongoing pressure on Hamas.

While details surrounding the circumstances of her release remain unclear, Trump’s announcement has sparked renewed calls for the immediate return of other hostages still held in the Middle East.

“Elizabeth’s freedom is a relief,” Yadegar said. “But all hostages need to come home—now.”

Judge Rules Teen Will Be Tried as Adult in Death of 13-Year-Old Ryland Calvert

FLORENCE, Ala. — A Lauderdale County judge has ruled that Cameron Phinizee, a teenager indicted for his role in the death of 13-year-old Ryland Calvert, will be tried as an adult.

The decision, announced Tuesday, comes after Phinizee requested youthful offender status following his July indictment for felony murder. Prosecutors say Phinizee and Calvert planned a robbery in March, during which Calvert was fatally shot at the Southern Oaks Village Apartments in Florence.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Calvert’s family members gave emotional testimony, urging the court to hold Phinizee accountable. “Because of his actions, Ryland didn’t return home,” said Calvert’s grandmother, Shari Riley. His great aunt, Glory Michael, echoed that sentiment, adding, “He made an adult decision that day and should be held accountable as an adult.”

District Attorney Chris Connelly argued Phinizee’s behavior fit that of an adult engaged in a dangerous crime, while defense attorney Tony Hughes insisted the teen had no criminal history beyond minor traffic citations. Supporters testified that Phinizee was “a kid who made a mistake” and deserved a chance at rehabilitation under youthful offender protections.

A Lauderdale County grand jury previously declined to charge the shooter, ruling the act was self-defense. However, jurors found Phinizee legally responsible for Calvert’s death.

With the court’s denial of youthful offender status, Phinizee now faces trial as an adult on felony murder charges. If convicted, he could face significant prison time.

DA May Pursue Harshest Penalties in Case of Man Accused of Raping 4-Year-Old

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Prosecutors say they will seek the maximum punishment for Anthony Jelks, who is accused of the brutal rape of a 4-year-old girl that left the child with a sexually transmitted disease.

Jelks was taken into custody last week following an intensive investigation by local law enforcement. Authorities allege that Jelks sexually assaulted the child, and medical reports confirmed the young victim contracted an STD as a result. The case has drawn outrage across Tennessee and beyond, with community members demanding justice.

According to reports, the District Attorney’s Office is weighing severe sentencing options, including surgical castration or, if warranted under law, the death penalty. “This is the type of predator who should never be allowed to harm another child,” one prosecutor stated. “We will pursue every legal avenue available to ensure he never walks free again.”

Community advocates say the case underscores the urgent need for tougher laws against repeat and violent sex offenders. “No child should ever endure something this horrific,” one activist said. “The public expects maximum accountability.”

Jelks remains in custody as prosecutors prepare their case. He faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated rape of a child. If convicted, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars.

Officials encourage anyone with information about Jelks or additional victims to contact investigators immediately.

“This is the justice we need to see for every child predator,” one parent said outside the courthouse.

Fort Payne Police, FBI Investigating Armed Robbery at PNC Bank

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — The Fort Payne Police Department, in coordination with the FBI, is investigating an armed robbery that occurred Tuesday morning at the PNC Bank in downtown Fort Payne.

Authorities say the incident happened around 9:20 a.m. when a white male entered the branch at 200 Gault Avenue North. The suspect, described as wearing blue jeans, a long-sleeve button-down shirt, and a black ball cap, approached a teller while armed with a handgun.

According to investigators, the man handed over a note demanding money. The teller complied, and the suspect left the bank with approximately $3,000 in cash before walking northbound from the scene.

The Fort Payne Police Department quickly secured the area and confirmed that no injuries were reported during the robbery. Photos of the suspect and his vehicle have since been released to the public as part of the investigation.

While authorities continue searching for the man, officials emphasized there is currently no immediate threat to the public.

As a precaution, Fort Payne City Schools implemented a secure perimeter following the incident. School officials said the measure was taken to ensure student safety until investigators could assess the situation.

The case is now being investigated jointly by Fort Payne Police and the FBI. Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement.

“This was a bold crime committed in broad daylight, and we are asking the community to assist us in identifying and locating the suspect,” police said in a statement.

Former Alabama State Trooper Arrested on Prostitution, Computer Tampering Charges

LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. — A former Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) trooper is facing criminal charges after investigators say he solicited prostitution and tampered with a state database.

ALEA confirmed Tuesday that former Senior Trooper Paul Wesley Richey turned himself in to the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office on September 9. He was booked into the county jail on charges of solicitation of prostitution and computer tampering.

According to court documents obtained by News 19, investigators allege that Richey improperly accessed a restricted law enforcement database without authorization. The misconduct surfaced during an internal review, triggering a broader investigation by ALEA and the State Bureau of Investigation.

ALEA officials also confirmed that Richey resigned from his position on Monday, September 8, just one day before his arrest.

“While this matter remains under investigation, ALEA is committed to full accountability and transparency,” the agency said in a statement. “Our officers are held to the highest standards of integrity, and violations of public trust will not be tolerated.”

The exact details surrounding the solicitation charge have not been disclosed, but law enforcement officials emphasized that the case is ongoing and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Richey’s arrest marks the latest in a series of high-profile disciplinary actions against Alabama law enforcement officers in recent years, drawing renewed attention to officer conduct both on and off duty.

He remains in custody pending further court proceedings.

Steven Garcia Identified as Victim in Fatal Brownsville Hit-and-Run

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Authorities have identified 40-year-old Steven Garcia as the victim of a deadly hit-and-run crash in Brownsville on Tuesday afternoon.

Police reported that at approximately 12:23 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of International Boulevard and East Polk Street after receiving calls about a bicyclist struck by a vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders found Garcia severely injured. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators determined that Garcia had been riding his bicycle when he was hit. The driver of the involved vehicle failed to stop, provide aid, or remain at the location, instead fleeing immediately after the crash.

As of now, authorities have not released a description of the suspect vehicle, and the search for the driver continues. Police emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to come forward with any information regarding the driver or the vehicle. Brownsville Crime Stoppers is offering a system for anonymous tips and may provide a cash reward for information that leads to an arrest. Community members can call 546-TIPS or submit tips online at www.p3tips.com.

The Brownsville Police Department expressed condolences to Garcia’s family and stressed the seriousness of hit-and-run crimes, highlighting the community’s role in helping solve the case.

As detectives work to gather more evidence, authorities are committed to ensuring justice for Steven Garcia and his loved ones.

Joseph L. Kaberline Identified as Oakland Shooting Victim; Suspect Faces Charges

TOPEKA, Kan. – Authorities have identified 37-year-old Joseph L. Kaberline as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon in Topeka’s Oakland neighborhood.

According to Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay, charges have been filed against 28-year-old Dalton W. Thompson in connection with the deadly incident. Kagay stated that Kaberline and Thompson were acquaintances and had prior contact before the shooting took place.

Thompson has been charged with:

• First-degree murder (premeditated)

• Attempted first-degree murder (premeditated)

• Aggravated battery

Police responded to reports of gunfire around 4:45 p.m. on September 4 in the 1000 block of Northeast Poplar Street. Upon arrival, officers located two men suffering from gunshot wounds. Kaberline was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Later that evening, Thompson was taken into custody and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a $1,000,000 bond.

District Attorney Kagay emphasized that the charges are currently allegations, reminding the public that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. He described the case as “serious and deeply concerning,” underscoring his office’s commitment to pursuing justice.

Authorities are continuing to investigate and encourage anyone with information to contact the Topeka Police Department at telpolice@topeka.org or provide anonymous tips through Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007.

The case remains an active investigation as the community mourns the loss of Joseph L. Kaberline.

44-Year-Old Man Fatally Shot Outside South Side Restaurant

CHICAGO — Police are investigating a fatal shooting that left a 44-year-old man dead Tuesday afternoon outside Joji Gyros on the city’s South Side.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the shooting occurred around 1:07 p.m. on September 9 in the 2500 block of East 79th Street.

Authorities said the victim was standing on the sidewalk when three unidentified men approached. At least one of the suspects pulled out a firearm and opened fire, striking the man multiple times in the torso.

Responding officers and emergency personnel arrived within minutes and found the victim critically wounded. He was transported to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His name has not been released, pending notification of relatives.

Chicago police and crime scene investigators recovered several shell casings in front of the restaurant and along the sidewalk. Detectives canvassed the area for surveillance footage and witnesses who may have seen the suspects before or after the shooting.

The three offenders fled the scene immediately following the gunfire. As of Tuesday evening, no arrests had been announced, and police have not provided additional suspect descriptions.

The fatal shooting comes amid a string of violent incidents reported across Chicago in recent weeks. Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact detectives or submit an anonymous tip to CPD’s tip line.

The investigation remains active.

Missouri Woman Charged With Murder 32 Years After Baby Found in Iowa Landfill

IOWA CITY, Iowa — A decades-old mystery has led to a murder charge, after investigators say advanced DNA technology identified the mother of an infant found dead in an Iowa landfill more than 32 years ago.

Cindy Sue Elder, 58, of Clever, Missouri, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the case. Elder was 26 years old in December 1992 when the baby’s body was discovered at the Iowa City Landfill inside a plastic bag left in a Coralville trash can.

At the time, investigators were unable to make progress, citing limited forensic tools and little information about the child’s birth. The case remained cold for nearly three decades.

In 2020, the Iowa City Police Department reopened the investigation, resubmitting preserved evidence for testing with new DNA technology. Detectives were eventually able to identify Elder as the child’s mother.

According to authorities, Elder admitted giving birth while living in Iowa City. She claimed the baby was born alive but said she did not know how the child died. Investigators allege Elder placed the newborn in a plastic bag and discarded it.

The baby’s father, who has not been publicly named, told police he was unaware of both the pregnancy and birth.

“This case exemplifies our commitment to crime victims, especially ones so vulnerable,” Iowa City Police Chief Dustin Liston said in a statement. “I am grateful for the dedication, partnerships, and technological advances that have made this arrest possible.”