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Active Shooting Reported at Starbucks in Huntsville

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Authorities are investigating a shooting incident that unfolded Sunday afternoon at a Starbucks in Huntsville, sparking panic among customers and raising concerns about public safety.

What Happened

Witnesses say chaos erupted when shots rang out inside the coffee shop, located in a busy commercial area. Patrons scrambled for safety, some hiding behind counters or fleeing nearby businesses. Police responded swiftly to multiple 911 calls, securing the area and evacuating surrounding establishments.

Casualties and Response

Although the total number of victims has not yet been confirmed, reports indicate that several individuals were injured and taken to local hospitals for treatment. Their conditions have not been released. Investigators are working to determine what led to the shooting, but no charges have been announced so far.

Ongoing Investigation

Police have not released the identity of the suspected shooter, though officials confirm the situation is under control and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, gathering witness statements, and collecting evidence from the scene.

Community Reaction

The incident has left the Huntsville community shaken. Starbucks, a well-frequented spot, was the last place many residents expected violence. Social media has since been filled with messages of shock, condolences, and prayers for those affected. Local leaders are urging vigilance and unity as the investigation continues.

Looking Forward

The Starbucks location will remain closed while police complete their investigation. Officials say updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

This tragic event is a sobering reminder of the urgent need to address gun violence and reinforce safety in public spaces.

31-Year-Old Woman Fatally Shot in South Loop Altercation

CHICAGO – A 31-year-old woman was killed Monday morning in Chicago’s South Loop following a violent confrontation that turned deadly, police confirmed.

The incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. on the 2200 block of South State Street. Authorities said the victim became involved in a physical altercation with another woman. During the dispute, the offender allegedly produced a firearm and shot the victim in the face.

According to witness accounts, the fight reportedly stemmed from a dispute over a man. Several bystanders told investigators that the argument escalated quickly before gunfire erupted.

Emergency responders transported the victim to Stroger Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead from her injuries.

Police have not released the victim’s identity pending family notification. The alleged shooter fled the scene, and investigators are actively working to locate the suspect.

The Chicago Police Department is continuing its investigation and has urged anyone with information to contact detectives.

The fatal shooting adds to ongoing concerns about gun violence in Chicago neighborhoods, even in areas like the South Loop, typically regarded as quieter parts of the city.

No further details were immediately available.

Arrest Made in New Haven Double Homicide

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WFSB) – An arrest has been made in connection with a double homicide that shocked New Haven late last month.

Police confirmed that Sergio Thomas was taken into custody on Friday, Sept. 5, in relation to the Aug. 25 killings on Dickerman Street. Authorities have not yet released details on the circumstances of the arrest but said Thomas is now facing charges linked to the case.

The New Haven Police Department publicly announced the arrest Monday morning on social media, stating:

“Update to the double homicide on Dickerman Street on 8/25: an arrest has been made. Sergio Thomas was arrested on Friday and will be presented at court this morning. Chief Jacobson will provide a brief update at 12:30 PM at 1 Union Ave. Family will not be present.”

Thomas was expected to be presented before a judge Monday, Sept. 8. The upcoming court proceedings will provide more clarity on the charges and the next steps in the case.

Police Chief Karl Jacobson is scheduled to give a press briefing at 12:30 p.m. at New Haven Police Headquarters on Union Avenue. Officials have said the victims’ families will not attend the update.

This double homicide has drawn significant community concern, and authorities say they remain committed to delivering justice while continuing to support those affected.

BREAKING: St. Louis Man Charged with Murder After Deadly Shooting on Henner Avenue

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — A 54-year-old man has been charged following a deadly shooting on the 5700 block of Henner Avenue Saturday night, September 6.

Authorities identified the suspect as Marvin Byrd, who now faces multiple felony charges, including:

• First-Degree Murder (Class A Felony)

• Armed Criminal Action (Unclassified Felony)

• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm – Dangerous Felon/Prior Conviction (Class B Felony)

• Resisting/Interfering with Arrest for a Felony (Class E Felony)

The Incident

According to court filings, the incident began after Byrd argued with a household member over financial contributions and alleged recreational drug use. Witnesses told investigators that the dispute escalated outside, where Byrd reportedly shot the victim before sitting in his vehicle.

Police officers arriving on scene attempted to arrest Byrd, but reports state he resisted, fought against restraint, and ignored commands before being subdued. An eyewitness account, along with nearby doorbell camera footage, reportedly captured the shooting.

Criminal History

Prosecutors noted that Byrd had a prior conviction for unlawful firearm possession in 2019 in St. Louis County. Despite this, he is accused of knowingly possessing a Sig Sauer P320 handgun during Saturday’s deadly altercation.

Legal Proceedings

The case is being prosecuted by Circuit Attorney Gabriel E. Gore’s office, with Assistant Circuit Attorney Michael Ware signing the felony complaint. If convicted of first-degree murder, Byrd faces either life in prison without parole or the death penalty under Missouri law.

Byrd is currently being held pending further court proceedings.

Authorities emphasized that Byrd, like all defendants, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Cottondale, Alabama: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Alisa M. Lamay

The Cottondale community is grieving the loss of Alisa M. Lamay, a cherished resident remembered for her kindness, service, and dedication. Her sudden passing has left a void in many lives, but her memory and the positive impact she made will continue to resonate for years to come.

A Life of Service

Alisa was more than a neighbor—she was a cornerstone of the community. Whether through her involvement in local initiatives or her ability to unite people, she embodied the spirit of service. Her contributions were not about recognition, but about a genuine desire to uplift others and strengthen community bonds.

A Guiding Presence

Friends and neighbors recall Alisa as someone whose door was always open. She was a source of comfort, encouragement, and kindness, often offering support when it was needed most. Her compassion and generosity touched countless lives, making her a guiding light in Cottondale.

Cherished by Many

Her family, friends, and neighbors describe Alisa as selfless and compassionate. Her ability to inspire, mentor, and bring people together earned her respect and admiration across the community. She is remembered not for grand gestures but for countless small acts of kindness that left lasting impressions.

A Lasting Legacy

While Cottondale mourns her loss, the community also celebrates the beautiful life she lived. Her legacy of generosity, leadership, and compassion will live on in the memories of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Alisa M. Lamay. Your life was a gift to Cottondale, and your legacy will remain a source of inspiration, unity, and love for generations to come.

Brandy Nicole Winfield Identified as Victim in Jones County House Fire

Jones County, Miss. (Sept. 8, 2025) — Authorities have identified the victim of a devastating house fire that claimed one life and injured others over the weekend. The Jones County Sheriff’s Department (JCSD) confirmed that 42-year-old Brandy Nicole Winfield tragically lost her life in the blaze.

The fire broke out early Sunday morning at a home on Sharon Road, where four people were inside. Emergency crews arrived to find the house heavily engulfed in flames. Two adults managed to escape, though their conditions have not yet been released.

A 15-year-old boy was also trapped inside. In a heroic effort, Sergeant Brandon Gregory of JCSD rushed into the burning home and pulled the teen to safety. He was immediately turned over to paramedics for treatment. His condition, along with that of the other survivors, remains unknown.

Sadly, Winfield was unable to make it out. Firefighters discovered her inside the home after battling through heavy smoke and flames. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities praised the bravery of first responders, particularly Sergeant Gregory, whose quick action saved the teenager’s life. “This tragedy could have been even worse without his courage,” officials noted in a statement.

Investigators are continuing to examine the cause of the fire, with fire marshals and local agencies assisting. No information has been released yet about what sparked the blaze.

The loss of Brandy Nicole Winfield has left a deep impact on the Jones County community, with friends, family, and neighbors mourning her passing. Local officials also reminded residents to check their smoke detectors, stressing that early warnings are critical in preventing similar tragedies.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the fire to contact the Jones County Sheriff’s Department. Updates regarding the survivors’ conditions and the fire’s cause are expected in the coming days.

Winfield’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly fire can devastate lives — and a testament to the selflessness of first responders who risk everything to save others.

Woman Arrested, Charged with Murder After Fatal Shooting in Jones County

Jones County, Miss. (Sept. 8, 2025) — A tragic early morning shooting in Jones County has left one man dead and a woman facing murder charges.

According to the Jones County Sheriff’s Department (JCSD), deputies responded to a call about a shooting at a home on Graves Road Monday morning. When authorities arrived, they discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound.

The victim, identified as Donnie Bender, Jr., was transported by EMServ to South Central Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.

Deputies quickly detained Joanna Husband, 46, at the scene for questioning. By late morning, JCSD announced her arrest, charging her with second-degree murder. She is currently being held at the Jones County Jail.

Authorities confirmed that the incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The Jones County Coroner’s Office also assisted at the scene.

Husband’s first court appearance is scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Jones County Justice Court.

This investigation remains ongoing.

When Grief Comes Twice: Remembering Tonio and Christen

Life has a way of shaking us to our very core. Sometimes it happens so suddenly that the mind struggles to catch up, and the heart refuses to believe what has taken place.

This past week has been one of those times.

Tonio passed away — suddenly, without warning. Just like that, he was gone. Friends and family were still grappling with the shock of his loss when, only four days later, tragedy struck again. His son, Christen, who had gone to mourn him, was also found dead.

Two lives, father and son, taken within days of each other.

The weight of this heartbreak is almost too much to carry. It feels unreal, unbearable. There are no words that can fully capture the pain of losing not just one loved one, but two, in such a short time.

Tonio was more than just a name. He was a presence — someone who touched lives with his energy, his warmth, and his spirit. Christen, too, had his own light, his own laughter, his own way of leaving an imprint on the hearts of those who knew him. Now, both lights have been dimmed, leaving behind a void that cannot be filled.

Grief is already a heavy burden. But when loss is multiplied, it leaves the soul reeling, searching for understanding, comfort, or even just a moment of peace. Asweh, this kind of pain is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

To lose a father and son almost side by side is a reminder of how fragile life truly is. It teaches us, painfully, to cherish the time we have with those we love — because none of us knows how many days are left.

As we mourn, we also hold on to hope: hope that their souls are at rest, that they are reunited beyond this world, and that those left behind can somehow find the strength to carry on.

Rest in eternal peace, Tonio and Christen. Your memories will live on in the hearts of all who loved you.

Springfield Police Identify Victim in Fatal DWI Crash

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Authorities have released details about a deadly crash that claimed the life of 26-year-old Cullen Beshers on Sunday evening at the intersection of Grand Street and West Bypass.

According to the Springfield Police Department, the crash happened around 6:23 p.m. on September 7, 2025. Investigators say Beshers was riding a 2006 Triumph motorcycle northbound on West Bypass when a 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan, driven by 41-year-old Jimmy Waweru of Springfield, turned south onto West Bypass from Grand, pulling into the motorcycle’s path. The vehicles collided, and Beshers was pronounced dead at the scene. His family has been notified.

Police confirmed that Waweru was arrested and booked into the Greene County Jail on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

This tragedy marks Springfield’s 16th fatal motor vehicle crash in 2025, resulting in a total of 17 deaths so far this year.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.

Homestead Woman Charged With Attempted Murder After Stabbing Guest, Police Say

HOMESTEAD, Fla. — A 22-year-old Homestead woman is behind bars after police say she stabbed a man she had invited to spend the night at her home.

According to Homestead police, Zaryanna Renee Marshall met the man through social media just two days prior and invited him to her residence in the 400 block of Southeast 35th Avenue on Sunday night.

Investigators said the pair got into an argument around 9 p.m., prompting the man to begin packing his belongings to leave. The victim told officers that Marshall began searching through his pockets, allegedly looking for rolling papers. During the argument, he admitted to calling Marshall a derogatory term, which reportedly escalated the confrontation.

The man told police that Marshall responded, “You wanna see retarded?” before pulling out a knife and stabbing him once in the back of the neck. He was transported to Jackson South Medical Center for treatment.

Marshall, however, claimed she acted in self-defense, alleging the man had punched her in the face. Police noted that she showed no visible injuries and refused to allow officers to take photographs.

As of Monday morning, Marshall was being held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, charged with attempted murder.