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Chicago Mom Romeca Meeks Reportedly Wrote Son Heartbreaking Note Before She Was Killed After Dropping Him Off at School

Tragedy struck Chicago’s South Loop on September 8, 2025, when 31-year-old Romeca Meeks was fatally shot in a dispute that turned deadly shortly after she dropped her son off for his first day of school. According to authorities, the incident occurred around 9 a.m. in the 2200 block of South State Street. The details remain unclear, but police believe the altercation involved a personal dispute between Meeks and another woman she knew.

The alleged shooter, reportedly dating the father of Meeks’ child, was taken into custody. Witnesses claim that tensions escalated when a confrontation turned physical, leading to the fatal shooting. A graphic cellphone video circulating online shows the chaotic aftermath of the shooting, including Meeks lying near a blood-stained vehicle and bystanders reacting in shock.

Amid the grief, a poignant detail has captured public attention: shortly before the incident, Meeks wrote a heartfelt note to her son, encouraging him to have a “fresh start” and reminding him to stay true to himself. The note read, “Happy Monday son, this is a fresh start to this day and you can start off strong. Always remain yourself, you’re the coolest, smartest and funniest kid I know. I love you so much. – Love Mommy.”

Friends describe Meeks as a devoted mother and aspiring nurse, whose life was tragically cut short. Her loss has left her family, friends, and community in deep mourning. This heartbreaking event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.

Man Fatally Shot on Chicago’s South Side; Police Seek Three Suspects

CHICAGO — A 44-year-old man was fatally shot Tuesday afternoon in the South Shore neighborhood, and police are now searching for three suspects believed to be connected to the incident.

According to the Chicago Police Department, the shooting occurred shortly after 1 p.m. in the 2500 block of East 79th Street. Authorities reported that the victim was standing near the sidewalk when he was approached by three unidentified men. During the confrontation, one of the suspects pulled out a handgun and opened fire.

The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. His identity has not yet been released as officials work to notify family members.

The suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting. As of Tuesday evening, no arrests have been made, and investigators continue to search for leads. Police have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the attack.

The South Shore community, already grappling with ongoing concerns about gun violence, is left shaken by the daylight shooting. Residents in the area are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist detectives in their investigation.

Authorities are asking witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the suspects’ whereabouts to contact the Chicago Police Department or submit anonymous tips through CPD’s tip line.

The investigation remains active as law enforcement works to bring those responsible to justice.

Swansea Community Mourns Loss of Margaret Smith in Tragic Crash

CLINTON COUNTY, Illinois — The tight-knit community of Swansea is mourning after a devastating accident claimed the life of longtime resident Margaret Smith, 68.

According to authorities, the fatal collision occurred on U.S. Route 50 in Clinton County, when a head-on crash left Smith fatally injured. Emergency crews responded swiftly, but despite their efforts, she did not survive.

Margaret Smith was more than just a name in Swansea — she was a beloved neighbor, friend, and family member. Known for her warmth, kindness, and active role in community life, her sudden passing has left a void that will be deeply felt across the town.

Local residents have already begun sharing tributes, describing Smith as someone who always had a smile, a helping hand, and a heart dedicated to others. “She loved this community, and this community loved her back,” one neighbor shared.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash, and no further details have yet been released about possible contributing factors.

As Swansea mourns, support is pouring in for Smith’s family, who are now facing unimaginable grief. Plans for a memorial service will be announced in the coming days, as loved ones prepare to celebrate the life of a woman who touched so many hearts.

Margaret Smith’s legacy will endure through the countless lives she impacted, and her memory will forever remain part of Swansea’s story.

After 25 Years, She Finally Has a Name

For decades, the mystery of a little girl discovered in a barrel in the woods of New Hampshire haunted investigators and the community. Known only as “the middle child,” she had no name, no story, and no justice.

This week, after 25 years of questions, she was finally identified as Rea Rasmussen.

Rea was just 2–4 years old when her life was stolen. Her father was Terry Rasmussen, the notorious “Chameleon Killer,” who earned his name for living under multiple aliases while leaving behind a trail of murder and devastation. Rea’s mother, Pepper Reed, vanished in the 1970s and has never been found.

The breakthrough came through the use of genetic genealogy, combined with decades of detective work. Investigators painstakingly pieced together DNA evidence, family connections, and public records until the truth could no longer remain hidden.

The case is part of the infamous Bear Brook murders, one of the most disturbing and complex true-crime cases in U.S. history. For years, the victims lay nameless, buried in barrels in a wooded area, while their killer evaded accountability.

Now, with Rea’s name revealed, she is no longer just “the middle child.” She is remembered as a daughter whose life was cut short but whose identity has finally been restored.

For 25 years, she was only a mystery. Today, she is remembered as Rea Rasmussen — proof that persistence and science can bring light to even the darkest tragedies.

In Loving Memory of Aleeya Marie Everhart

With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Aleeya Marie Everhart, a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, and friend whose presence brought warmth and joy to everyone she met. Though her life ended far too soon, the light she shared continues to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.

Aleeya’s smile had the power to brighten even the darkest room, and her laughter was infectious, filling moments with comfort and joy. She had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. Her heart was open, her spirit generous, and her loyalty to those she loved knew no limits.

She lived with vibrant energy, always extending compassion and kindness. Aleeya remembered the small things—checking in just to say “I love you,” offering support when it was needed most, and lifting others with her words and actions. She carried big dreams and passions that guided her journey and approached life with courage, curiosity, and grace.

To her family, Aleeya was a treasured gift. She brought love and laughter into every gathering, creating lasting memories that will be cherished forever. Though the pain of her loss is immeasurable, so too is the gratitude for every shared moment.

Her loved ones find comfort in knowing Aleeya’s legacy will live on—in her laughter, in her favorite songs, and in the countless lives she touched. While funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date, the family asks for prayers, privacy, and continued support during this difficult time.

26-Year-Old Man Dies After Car Crashes Into Rogue River Near Gold Hill

Gold Hill, Oregon – A tragic accident claimed the life of a 26-year-old Gold Hill man on Monday afternoon after his vehicle plunged into the Rogue River in Jackson County.

According to the Oregon State Police (OSP), the crash occurred around 2:18 p.m. on Highway 99 near milepost 12. Investigators said a southbound Subaru Legacy, driven by Cody Austin Jenkins, suddenly veered across the northbound lanes, broke through a roadside fence, and went into the river.

Emergency responders quickly arrived on scene, including the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue teams, and the Rogue River Fire Department. Despite their efforts, no one was seen exiting the submerged vehicle. Jenkins was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed he was the sole occupant of the car.

Specialized teams, including the Jackson County Dive Team, worked to recover the vehicle from the water. Fortunately, highway traffic was not disrupted during the recovery and investigation efforts.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation. OSP’s Collision Reconstruction Unit, which handles serious and fatal crashes, is leading the inquiry. At this time, officials have not released further details about what may have led to the vehicle leaving the roadway.

The sudden loss has left the Gold Hill community shaken, as friends and family mourn the death of Jenkins. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Oregon State Police as the investigation continues.

Gunman Fatally Shot After Hours-Long Standoff in Mandeville

Mandeville, Manchester – Tensions ran high on Tuesday morning as police faced off with an armed man at an apartment complex on Caledonia Road, resulting in a nearly three-hour standoff that ended with the suspect being fatally shot.

According to reports, the incident began shortly after 10:00 a.m., when officers patrolling in the area came under gunfire. The situation quickly escalated, prompting a massive response from law enforcement. Units from the Manchester Police Division, led by Deputy Superintendent Carey Duncan, were joined by reinforcements from the Area Three Police and the elite Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.

For hours, the apartment complex was surrounded as officers attempted to contain the situation and protect residents. Witnesses reported hearing sporadic bursts of gunfire as the standoff unfolded, forcing some residents to remain indoors for their safety.

Police sources confirmed that after intense exchanges, the armed man was eventually subdued and fatally shot. His identity has not yet been released, and investigators are working to determine what led to the confrontation.

“This was a highly volatile situation, but through coordinated efforts we were able to prevent further loss of life,” said one senior officer on the scene.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the standoff. They have urged residents to remain calm and to promptly report any suspicious activities in their communities.

The incident has left the Mandeville community shaken, as residents grapple with the reality of violence striking so close to home.

48-Year-Old Darrick Jones Identified as Victim in Deadly Shooting on Smutherman Drive, Riverdale

DILLON COUNTY, S.C. – Authorities have confirmed that 48-year-old Darrick Jones, a Dillon County resident, has been identified as the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred on Smutherman Drive in Riverdale.

According to Dillon County Coroner Donnie Grimsley, deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the normally quiet neighborhood. Upon arrival, they discovered Jones suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Coroner Grimsley confirmed that Jones’s body was transported to Myrtle Beach for an autopsy, which will be conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Pathology Department. The autopsy aims to determine the exact cause and manner of death, while officials continue to investigate the circumstances.

The Dillon County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation with assistance from the SLED’s Crime Scene Investigation Division (CSID). Detectives are conducting door-to-door interviews, reviewing surveillance footage, and gathering witness statements to piece together what led to the tragic shooting.

Sheriff Hamilton emphasized the importance of community cooperation, urging anyone with information to contact the Dillon County Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of the Pee Dee.

As the investigation continues, family and friends are mourning Jones’s sudden loss. Community members have expressed shock over the violence, describing Jones as a beloved member of the community. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

FBI Offers $10,000 Reward for Information in St. Louis Double Homicide

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The FBI’s St. Louis Field Office is asking for the public’s help to identify suspects connected to a deadly shooting that claimed the lives of Marshun White and Marcus Price on September 19, 2024.

Authorities say the two victims were fatally shot while sitting outside their apartment building at 1610 North Kingshighway Boulevard in St. Louis. Surveillance evidence shows that two unidentified suspects watched the victims for more than an hour before approaching and opening fire.

After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in a dark-colored SUV. Investigators believe that members of the community may have critical information that could help bring justice to the victims’ families.

To encourage tips, the FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the suspects.

“Every lead matters. Someone out there knows something, and that piece of information could be what solves this case,” officials said.

If you have any details regarding this homicide, please contact the FBI’s toll-free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). Tips may also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov, or you can reach out to your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy, or Consulate.

The FBI emphasizes that all tips will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. Families of Marshun White and Marcus Price continue to seek closure, and community cooperation could make the difference in delivering justice.

Human Remains Discovered in St. Louis County: Investigation Underway

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – Police are investigating after human remains were found in a wooded area of St. Louis County on Monday morning.

According to the St. Louis County Police Department, officers from the North County Precinct responded to a call around 11:46 a.m. on September 8, 2025, regarding remains discovered in the 800 block of Strodtman Road.

Authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages. The identity of the deceased and the cause of death have not yet been determined. Detectives are working closely with medical examiners to learn more about how the individual died and how long the remains may have been at the location.

Police have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected but are urging anyone with information to come forward. “We are committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this discovery and will provide updates as the investigation continues,” officials said in a statement.

The area where the remains were found has now become a focus of police activity, with forensic teams carefully collecting evidence that could provide answers. Cases like this often require extensive work, including DNA testing, dental record comparisons, and witness interviews before a positive identification can be made.

Community members who may have seen suspicious activity in the area are asked to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210. To remain anonymous or potentially receive a reward, tips can also be submitted to CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477).