Author: Admin

  • Authorities Issue Emergency Alert at Sheppard Air Force Base Amid Possible Active Shooter Threat

    Authorities Issue Emergency Alert at Sheppard Air Force Base Amid Possible Active Shooter Threat

    WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Authorities at Sheppard Air Force Base issued an emergency alert Friday, placing the installation and nearby community on high alert following reports of a potential active shooter near Sheppard Elementary School, which is located on or adjacent to the base grounds. The alert prompted an immediate shelter-in-place order and a coordinated law enforcement response as officials rushed to assess the credibility and scope of the threat.

    Base officials instructed all military personnel, civilian staff, and residents to seek shelter indoors immediately, secure doors, and await further instructions. The urgency of the order underscored the seriousness with which officials treated the reported threat, even as details remain limited.

    Schools Ordered Into Lockdown

    As a precautionary measure, schools in and around the Sheppard Air Force Base area were placed on lockdown. Administrators quickly moved students and staff into secure positions, following established protocols designed to minimize risk and maintain calm in emergency scenarios.

    Parents in the Wichita Falls community were notified of the lockdowns, and school officials stressed that the steps were taken purely out of caution, not in response to any confirmed attack within school buildings.

    Information Still Developing

    At this time, authorities have not confirmed whether any shots were fired, nor have they stated whether a suspect has been identified, located, or taken into custody. Officials emphasized that the situation is evolving, and information will be released as soon as it is verified.

    Security personnel are treating the threat with full seriousness until it can be conclusively resolved.

    Large-Scale Response Underway

    Security Forces from Sheppard Air Force Base, supported by multiple local law enforcement agencies, are conducting a coordinated sweep of the area surrounding Sheppard Elementary and the broader installation. Emergency responders are moving methodically through the affected zones, checking buildings, monitoring access points, and ensuring the safety of anyone sheltering in place.

    The base has asked all residents and personnel to avoid the area, remain indoors, and refrain from calling emergency lines unless they have direct information related to the threat.

    Community on High Alert

    The emergency alert has cast a wave of concern across Wichita Falls, with parents, military families, and residents anxiously awaiting updates. While lockdowns and shelter-in-place orders remain active, officials continue to reassure the public that every available resource is being utilized to keep students, base personnel, and civilians safe.

    Ongoing Investigation

    As the investigation continues, authorities stress that additional updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available and as safety assessments progress. Until then, both base personnel and surrounding communities are urged to remain vigilant and follow all official instructions.

  • Routine Eviction Service Turns Deadly as Deputy Terri Mashkow Killed, Two Others Injured

    Routine Eviction Service Turns Deadly as Deputy Terri Mashkow Killed, Two Others Injured

    INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. — A routine civil service operation turned deadly Friday morning when gunfire erupted during the delivery of an eviction notice at a residence in the Bermuda Club community north of Vero Beach. Authorities have confirmed that Deputy Terri Mashkow was killed in the line of duty, and two additional individuals—including another deputy and a locksmith—were injured in the violent encounter.

    The shooting occurred around 11:37 a.m. at 1137 Governor’s Way, where three deputies with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office arrived to serve a lawful eviction order to 37-year-old Michael Halberstam.

    According to Sheriff Eric Flowers, the deputies approached the residence under standard protocol, unaware that the situation would escalate. Without warning, Halberstam retrieved a firearm and opened fire on them, unleashing a barrage of bullets that turned a routine civil service into one of the most devastating events in the agency’s history.

    Deputy Terri Mashkow Killed in the Line of Duty

    During the sudden exchange of gunfire, Deputy Terri Mashkow, 47, was fatally struck. Deputy Mashkow was a 25-year veteran of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, a respected public servant, and a deeply admired colleague. Sheriff Flowers described her as “a dedicated, compassionate team member whose presence, professionalism, and commitment to the community will be profoundly missed.”

    Her death marks only the second line-of-duty death in the sheriff’s office’s 100-year history, underscoring the profound impact of this tragedy on the agency and the community at large.

    Two Additional Individuals Wounded

    A second deputy was shot in the shoulder. He was transported with police escort to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, where officials say he is expected to survive.

    A locksmith assisting the deputies during the eviction was also critically wounded. He was rushed into emergency surgery and remains in critical condition as physicians continue to fight for his life.

    Suspect Shot and in Critical Condition

    Deputies returned fire, striking Halberstam. Sheriff Flowers confirmed that he was transported to the hospital in critical condition and is currently undergoing surgery.

    Although Halberstam was not previously flagged as dangerous, Sheriff Flowers noted that the suspect’s mother had contacted law enforcement seven times in the past month, seeking assistance and ultimately requesting that her son be removed from the property. Still, Flowers emphasized that there had been nothing in recent interactions indicating violence was imminent.

    “This was a routine call,” Sheriff Flowers stated. “Halberstam was not on our radar as a threat. There was no intelligence suggesting an elevated risk.”

    Massive Law Enforcement Response

    In the wake of the attack, a large-scale law enforcement mobilization swept across Indian River County and surrounding areas. Witnesses reported long lines of sheriff’s vehicles, unmarked units, and a tactical armored vehicle racing along U.S. Highway 1.

    Helicopters from Martin and St. Lucie counties were deployed to support the operation.

    Florida Governor Ron DeSantis publicly addressed the incident, stating:

    “We are closely monitoring the situation. Three law enforcement officers were shot, and the suspect is being handled. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is actively engaged and working with local authorities. We are hoping for the best possible outcome.”

    Investigation Ongoing

    The investigation remains active and is being led jointly by the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, with additional support from multiple agencies across the region.

    Authorities will release further updates as more information becomes available regarding the suspect’s condition, the injured victims, and the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter.

    For now, the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office—and the community it serves—are mourning the loss of a veteran deputy, praying for the recovery of the injured, and grappling with the tragic reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve.

     

  • In Loving Memory of JaQuis Jones,A Mother, A Light, A Life Gone Too Soon

    In Loving Memory of JaQuis Jones,A Mother, A Light, A Life Gone Too Soon

    The Kansas City community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of JaQuis Jones, a devoted mother and beloved daughter, who tragically lost her life yesterday evening. Her passing has left a profound emptiness in the hearts of those who knew her and an irreplaceable void in the life of the baby girl who depended on her every day.

    Yesterday evening, law enforcement officers responded to reports of gunfire near 55th and Wabash. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered JaQuis Jones, who was tragically pronounced deceased shortly thereafter. As detectives continue to piece together what occurred, the community is left grappling with the sudden loss of a young woman whose presence brought warmth, comfort, and joy to many.

    A Mother First and Always

    JaQuis’s most cherished role in life was being a mother. She was the loving and dedicated mom of a baby girl who adored her—and whom she adored right back with every fiber of her being. Her world revolved around ensuring her daughter felt supported, celebrated, and deeply loved. Those closest to her describe her as a mother who never hesitated to sacrifice, who worked hard, and who carried her child through every challenge with grace and fierce devotion.

    Her daughter now faces life without her mother’s embrace—a loss that is immeasurable. Family, friends, and the wider community are rallying around her child, determined to preserve JaQuis’s memory through shared love, stories, and support.

    A Spirit of Warmth and Kindness

    To those who had the privilege of knowing her, JaQuis Jones was known as a down-to-earth woman with an inviting spirit. Her warm smile, genuine kindness, and positive energy had a way of making others feel seen and valued. Whether spending time with family, encouraging a friend through a difficult day, or simply sharing laughter in passing conversation, JaQuis carried a natural radiance that brightened every space she entered.

    She possessed a caring heart—one that uplifted others, offered comfort, and inspired hope. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who crossed her path, from lifelong friends to neighbors and acquaintances who experienced her kindness even in small moments.

    A Community in Sorrow

    Her passing has cast a shadow of grief across Kansas City, touching not only her family, but also friends, colleagues, and those who witnessed firsthand the joy she brought to her daughter and to the world around her. As the community attempts to make sense of the senseless, they are united in mourning a life that meant so much to so many.

    This tragedy has also sparked renewed calls for justice, accountability, and community healing. The loss of JaQuis is yet another reminder of the urgency to confront the violence affecting our city and to support the families forever changed by it.

    Seeking Answers and Justice

    Detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and are urging anyone who may have seen or heard something to come forward. Even the smallest detail could help bring justice for JaQuis and provide closure for her grieving loved ones.

    Anyone with information is encouraged to contact detectives at 816-234-5043.

    Anonymous tips may be submitted to 816-474-8477.

    Honoring Her Memory

    As Kansas City grieves, those who loved JaQuis are committed to preserving her legacy—her compassion, her strength, and the endless love she poured into her daughter. Though her life was cut tragically short, JaQuis Jones leaves behind a legacy of kindness, motherhood, and heartfelt connection that will never be forgotten.

    May her memory continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who knew her, and may her daughter always feel the warmth of her mother’s love reflected through the community that now stands beside her.

    Rest in peace, JaQuis. Your light lives on.

     

  • St. Bernard Preparatory School Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Junior Student Sarah Cumbie

    St. Bernard Preparatory School Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Junior Student Sarah Cumbie

    St. Bernard Preparatory School is united in profound grief as the community mourns the devastating loss of Sarah Cumbie, a beloved junior who passed away yesterday following a sudden and grave illness earlier in the week. With heavy hearts, students, faculty, staff, and the Abbey family join Dr. Craig Mann and his family in honoring the life of an extraordinary young woman whose resilience, compassion, and quiet strength touched the entire St. Bernard community.

    A Sudden Illness and a Devastating Loss

    Sarah’s sudden health crisis began on Sunday, November 16, when she was found unresponsive at home. She was immediately transported to Cullman Regional Medical Center and later transferred to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, where she was placed on life support and cared for by a team of dedicated medical professionals. Despite their best efforts and the fervent prayers of an entire community, Sarah tragically passed away, her death marking an unimaginable end to a week filled with hope, fear, and deep sorrow.

    A Story of Overwhelming Hardship and Extraordinary Strength

    Sarah’s life was marked by profound trials—yet also by a remarkable capacity for courage and grace. She arrived at St. Bernard in the 7th grade, seeking stability shortly before the devastating loss of her father to illness. Just sixteen days later, tragedy struck again when her mother died in a car accident.

    In the wake of such unimaginable grief, Sarah was embraced first by the St. Bernard girls dorm and then fully welcomed into the home of Dr. Mann, a St. Bernard teacher, and his wife and family. They became her guardians, mentors, and unwavering support system through some of the most formative and vulnerable years of her life. Through it all, Sarah grew into a young woman whose gentle presence and inner strength became a source of inspiration for everyone who knew her.

    A Scholar With a Bright Future

    Despite her hardships, Sarah excelled academically with quiet determination. This month, she learned that her ACT “super score” had reached an impressive 32, qualifying her for four years of tuition-free study at the University of Alabama, her dream school. Her excitement was shared by classmates, teachers, and her St. Bernard family, all of whom recognized the bright future that lay ahead.

    Her academic success stood as a testament not only to her intelligence, but to her perseverance—a young woman who refused to let hardship define her, who believed in building a life shaped by effort, hope, and faith.

    A Heart for Service and a Life of Generosity

    Beyond the classroom, Sarah carried a deep and abiding love for serving others. One of her greatest joys was volunteering at Curt’s Closet, where she developed a close bond with founder Ashley Wilson. Sarah was eagerly looking forward to participating in this year’s Curt’s Christmas program, an event that brings dignity and holiday joy to children in need. Her involvement reflected the pure-hearted desire she had to uplift others, especially those facing difficulties of their own.

    In a final act of selfless generosity, Sarah was an organ donor—a gift that hospital officials report could save up to eight lives and improve the quality of life for as many as 50 others. Even in death, Sarah chose to give.

    Dr. Mann encourages those wishing to honor Sarah’s memory to support Curt’s Closet, a ministry that held a special place in her heart and reflected the compassion that defined her life.

    A Community United in Grief and Prayer

    The St. Bernard faculty, staff, and monks of the Abbey are fully committed to supporting the entire school community as they navigate this profound loss. Priests, counselors, and licensed therapists are available on campus, and the chapel remains open for students and families seeking prayer, reflection, or a quiet place to sit with their grief.

    Teachers and staff have been intentionally creating spaces for students to gather, share memories, lean on one another, and honor Sarah’s life. Whether through prayer services, shared stories, or silent moments of remembrance, the community is coming together with tenderness and unity.

    Faith in the Midst of Grief

    “We place our trust in God during this unimaginably difficult time,” said Headmaster Phuong Nguyen. “Sarah was dearly loved by her classmates, teachers, and all who knew her. We ask our community to join us in lifting Sarah, Dr. Mann, and their family in prayer.”

    Sarah Cumbie will be remembered not only for the hardships she overcame, but for the light she brought into every space she entered—the student who worked hard, loved deeply, gave generously, and persevered with a quiet courage that inspired everyone around her.

    Though her time on earth was far too short, her impact will live on in the hearts of her St. Bernard family and all who were blessed to know her.

  • KANSAS CITY RECORDS 128TH HOMICIDE: MS. JONÊß IDENTIFIED AS SHOOTING VICTIM

    KANSAS CITY RECORDS 128TH HOMICIDE: MS. JONÊß IDENTIFIED AS SHOOTING VICTIM

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. —Kansas City was shaken once again Thursday night as gun violence claimed the life of another resident—Ms. Jonêß—in an incident that underscores the urgent and undeniable crisis gripping the community. City Reaches 128th Homicide as Violence Surges.

    Just after 7:30 p.m., Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) officers responded to multiple calls reporting gunfire near 55th Street and Wabash Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found a vehicle stopped along the roadway. Inside sat Ms. Jonêß, unresponsive and suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite rapid assessment at the scene, she was pronounced dead, her life ended before help could arrive.

    Her death is not an isolated tragedy—it is the 128th homicide in Kansas City this year, a number that reflects a community pushed to its breaking point. Families, neighborhoods, and frontline responders continue to endure what has become an unrelenting cycle of violence, loss, and grief.

    At this time, no suspects are in custody, and investigators have not yet determined what led to the shooting. Detectives are urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to step forward. Silence only shields those responsible.

    Anyone with information is asked to call the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.

    Tips can remain anonymous. Even one call could bring justice to this senseless act.

    Separate Tragedy in DeKalb County

    As Kansas City confronts the fallout of yet another homicide, another devastating discovery unfolded in DeKalb County, Missouri, where three people were found dead in a home following a fire. Authorities are working to determine the origins of both the fire and the fatalities. Two major losses in one night paint a grim picture of the violence, tragedy, and unanswered questions facing the region.

    A CITY DEMANDING ANSWERS

    The killing of Ms. Jonêß is more than another headline—it is a life taken, a family shattered, and a community left demanding justice. Kansas City cannot afford to grow numb to these tragedies. Every life lost sharpens the call for accountability, safety, and change.

    Community leaders, residents, and law enforcement continue to stress the importance of cooperation. Until those responsible are found and held accountable, the danger remains.

    A CALL TO ACTION

    Kansas City stands at a crossroads. The rising homicide numbers signal a crisis that requires strength, unity, and an uncompromising commitment to protect every member of this community. The death of Ms. Jonêß must not fade into another statistic—it must fuel the push for real solutions, stronger partnerships, and a renewed dedication to stopping the violence.

    As investigators work to uncover the truth, Kansas City mourns a life lost too soon and demands justice with unwavering resolve.

     

  • In Loving Memory: Community Mourns After Huss Street Homicide–Suicide Claims Four Lives

    In Loving Memory: Community Mourns After Huss Street Homicide–Suicide Claims Four Lives

    In loving memory of 29-year-old Dustin Willey, 42-year-old Ryan Eagon, and the two young children whose names remain protected under Marsy’s Law, the community of Tiffin is left grieving an unimaginable tragedy that unfolded on the evening of November 19, 2025, in the 100 block of Huss Street. These lives—each connected by family ties, heartbreaking circumstances, and a moment of irreversible violence—will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved them.

    A Tragic Evening on Huss Street

    On November 19, 2025, at approximately 6:24 p.m., officers of the Tiffin Police Department were dispatched to Huss Street after emergency calls reported gunfire and screaming. What they found was a devastating scene—a family torn apart and multiple individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

    Inside the home, the mother and Dustin worked to collect her belongings while her two young children—just 7 years old and 7 months old—remained outside near a vehicle, unaware of the danger approaching.

    Moments of Terror

    After hearing the 7-year-old cry out, the mother and Dustin rushed outside and found Ryan Eagon unexpectedly in the driveway. According to witness accounts and physical evidence, Ryan immediately confronted Dustin, pushing past the mother and opening fire without hesitation.

    As the chaos escalated, Ryan turned the weapon toward the two children, fatally shooting them both. He then directed additional gunfire at Dustin before ending his own life with a single self-inflicted gunshot wound.

    In a moment of unimaginable fear yet unwavering parental instinct, the mother carried her gravely injured children back inside the home and called for help.


    Lives Lost and Loved

    First responders from the Tiffin Police Department and Tiffin Fire and Rescue arrived swiftly, doing everything possible to save the victims.

    • Dustin Willey, 29, was transported to Tiffin Mercy Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
    • The 7-month-old infant was pronounced deceased at the residence.
    • The 7-year-old child was taken to the hospital but tragically passed away shortly after.
    • Ryan Eagon, 42, died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

    The mother, emotionally shattered but physically unharmed, survived the ordeal and was the individual who made the emergency call. In accordance with Marsy’s Law, her identity will not be released to protect her privacy as she navigates unimaginable loss.


    A Community in Mourning

    The ripple effects of this tragedy stretch far beyond the walls of one household. First responders, medical teams, neighbors, educators, and community members throughout Tiffin are collectively grieving the loss of such innocent lives.

    Counseling resources and grief support services are being coordinated to help those impacted cope with the emotional aftermath. The Tiffin Police Department, with the assistance of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Seneca County Coroner’s Office, continues to investigate. Autopsies are pending.

    In respect for the youngest victims, no additional identifying information about the children will be released at this time.

    Forever in Our Hearts

    The lives taken on Huss Street were precious beyond words—two children whose futures were full of hope, a man who came only to help protect a mother and her family, and an individual whose actions brought about profound and irreversible tragedy.

    As the community mourns, they hold onto the memories, innocence, and humanity of those lost. Their absence will forever be felt, and their names—Dustin Willey and Ryan Eagon, along with the two young children—will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and all who were touched by this heartbreaking event.

    May their memories be a blessing, and may those grieving find strength, comfort, and healing in the difficult days ahead.