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With heavy hearts, the Lafayette community mourns the devastating loss of Cherita Washington, 36, of Duson; Chase Washington, 17, of Duson; and Joseph Prejean, 21, of Lafayette, who succumbed to their injuries following a fatal multi-vehicle crash that unfolded in the early morning hours along Johnston Street at E. Broussard Road. What began as a routine Tuesday morning ended in unimaginable sorrow, leaving families shattered and a city united in grief.

According to the Lafayette Police Department, the crash occurred around 5:15 a.m., prompting the closure of portions of Johnston Street for several hours as emergency crews and investigators worked the scene. All lanes were reopened by 10:30 a.m., though the emotional impact of the tragedy continues to weigh heavily on the community.

Preliminary findings indicate that Joseph Prejean was traveling westbound on E. Broussard Road at a high rate of speed when the collision occurred. At the same time, Cherita Washington and her daughter, Chase Washington, were stopped at a red light, waiting to turn right onto Johnston Street. Investigators say Prejean’s vehicle rear-ended the Washingtons’ vehicle, and the force of the impact pushed their car into a third vehicle that was stopped and waiting to turn left onto E. Broussard Road from Johnston Street.

After the initial collision, Prejean’s vehicle continued through the intersection and struck a wooden electrical pole, causing significant damage and prompting an extensive emergency response. The driver of the third vehicle involved in the crash was transported to a local hospital with injuries and is currently reported to be in stable condition.

As news of the tragedy spread, grief rippled throughout the community—especially within Lafayette High School, where Chase Washington was a student. In a statement, the Lafayette Parish School System expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a student and her mother, offering heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, classmates, and the entire Lafayette High community. To help students and staff cope during this difficult time, additional counselors have been made available on campus to provide support and a safe space for those in need.

Beyond the details of the investigation lie the lives forever changed. Cherita Washington was a devoted mother whose love and care shaped her family’s world. Chase Washington, just 17 years old, had her entire future ahead of her—filled with hopes, dreams, and milestones yet to come. Joseph Prejean, only 21, was a young man whose life also ended far too soon, leaving loved ones to grapple with sudden loss and deep sorrow.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as authorities continue working to determine all contributing factors. In the meantime, the Lafayette community stands together in mourning—offering prayers, compassion, and support to all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.

May the memories of Cherita Washington, Chase Washington, and Joseph Prejean be forever cherished. Rest in peace. You are remembered. You are loved. You will not be forgotten.

With profound sadness, the Lafayette community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Cherita Washington, 36, of Duson; Chase Washington, 17, of Duson; and Joseph Prejean, 21, of Lafayette, who lost their lives in a devastating multi-vehicle crash that occurred in the early morning hours along Johnston Street. What should have been a routine start to the day instead became a moment of irreversible loss, leaving families, friends, classmates, and an entire community grieving lives taken far too soon.

According to the Lafayette Police Department, the fatal collision happened around 5:15 a.m. at the intersection of Johnston Street and E. Broussard Road. The severity of the crash forced the closure of portions of Johnston Street for several hours as first responders and traffic investigators worked the scene. All lanes were eventually reopened by 10:30 a.m., but the emotional impact of the tragedy continues to linger long after the roadway cleared.

Investigators reported that Joseph Prejean was traveling westbound on E. Broussard Road at a high rate of speed when the collision occurred. At the same time, Cherita Washington and her daughter, Chase Washington, were stopped at a red light, waiting to turn right onto Johnston Street. Prejean’s vehicle struck the Washingtons’ vehicle from behind, and the force of the impact pushed their car into a third vehicle that was stopped and waiting to turn left onto E. Broussard Road from Johnston Street.

After the initial impact, Prejean’s vehicle continued through the intersection before striking a wooden electrical pole, adding to the destruction and prompting an extensive emergency response. The driver of the third vehicle involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.

As news of the tragedy spread, grief rippled across the community—particularly within the halls of Lafayette High School, where Chase Washington was a student. In a statement, the Lafayette Parish School System expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a student and her mother, extending heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, classmates, and the entire Lafayette High community. To help students and staff cope with the devastating loss, additional counselors have been made available on campus, offering support and a safe space for those struggling to process the tragedy.

Beyond the investigation and official statements are the lives forever changed. Cherita Washington was a devoted mother whose care and love were central to her family’s world. Chase Washington, just 17 years old, had a future filled with promise—dreams still forming, milestones yet to be reached, and a life only beginning to unfold. Joseph Prejean, only 21, was a young man whose life also ended far too soon, leaving behind loved ones now faced with sudden loss and deep sorrow.

The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, as authorities work to fully understand the circumstances that led to this tragic event. In the meantime, the Lafayette community continues to come together in mourning—offering prayers, comfort, and compassion to all who are grieving.

May the memories of Cherita Washington, Chase Washington, and Joseph Prejean live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. May their families find strength in one another and solace in the support of a community united in remembrance.

Rest in peace. You are remembered. You are loved. You will not be forgotten.

With heavy hearts, the South Bend community is mourning the tragic loss of Malik Duncan, a 17-year-old whose life was taken far too soon in a shooting on the city’s northeast side. What should have been an ordinary Monday afternoon ended in heartbreak, leaving family, friends, classmates, and neighbors struggling to comprehend the sudden and devastating loss of a young life filled with promise.

According to the South Bend Police Department, the shooting occurred near the intersection of Frances and Sorin Streets. Malik was fatally wounded during the incident. Two other individuals—a 19-year-old and a 16-year-old male—were also struck by apparent gunfire. They were transported to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries, where they continue to recover physically as the community grapples with emotional wounds that may take much longer to heal.

The South Bend Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives are working diligently to piece together what led to this senseless act of violence and to bring accountability and answers to those left behind. As of now, the case remains open and ongoing.

Beyond the investigation and official updates is the profound human loss. Malik Duncan was just 17—an age marked by growth, dreams, and the anticipation of a future still unfolding. He was someone’s child, friend, classmate, and neighbor. His absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, and his passing serves as a painful reminder of the toll that violence continues to take on young lives and communities.

As South Bend mourns, there is also a call for unity, compassion, and courage. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward, reminding the public that even the smallest detail could help bring clarity and justice. Tips can be shared anonymously through Michiana Crime Stoppers by calling 574-288-STOP or visiting p3tips.com/203.

In this time of sorrow, the community is encouraged to hold Malik’s loved ones close in thought and prayer, to support one another, and to honor his memory by choosing peace, empathy, and action against violence.

Rest in peace, Malik Duncan.

You are remembered. You are loved. You will not be forgotten.

With heavy hearts, the Lafayette community mourns the devastating loss of Cherita Washington, 36; Chase Washington, 17; and Joseph Prejean, 21, whose lives were tragically taken in a fatal multi-vehicle crash that unfolded in the early morning hours along the busy intersection of Johnston Street and E. Broussard Road. What began as an ordinary Tuesday morning ended in unimaginable sorrow, leaving families shattered and a city united in grief.

According to preliminary findings from the Lafayette Police Department’s Traffic Unit, the collision occurred around 5:13 a.m. when Vehicle #1 was traveling westbound at a high rate of speed in the 100 block of E. Broussard Road. At the intersection, Vehicle #2 was stopped at a red light, preparing to turn right onto Johnston Street, when it was violently struck from behind. The sheer force of the impact pushed Vehicle #2 forward into Vehicle #3, which was stationary and waiting to turn left onto E. Broussard Road from Johnston Street.

After the initial collisions, Vehicle #1 continued through the intersection before striking a wooden electrical pole, causing further destruction and prompting an extensive emergency response.

Tragically, the crash claimed the lives of three individuals. The occupants of Vehicle #2 were identified as Cherita Washington and Chase Washington, both of Duson, Louisiana—a mother and child whose bond was unbreakable, taken together in a single, heartbreaking moment. The driver of Vehicle #1, Joseph Prejean of Lafayette, also succumbed to his injuries. A fourth individual from Vehicle #3 sustained minor to moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.

First responders arrived swiftly, establishing a secure crime scene as emergency medical personnel worked tirelessly. Utility crews were called to repair the damaged electrical pole, and both northbound and southbound lanes of Johnston Street at E. Broussard Road were closed for several hours as investigators worked through the wreckage. Motorists were urged to seek alternate routes while the investigation continued.

As the morning progressed, police confirmed the loss of three lives at the scene. Later updates indicated that all roadways have since reopened, though the investigation remains active, with additional details to be released as they become available.

Beyond the facts of the crash lie the lives forever changed. Cherita Washington was a devoted mother whose love and guidance shaped her family’s world. Chase Washington, just 17 years old, stood at the threshold of adulthood, with dreams still unfolding and a future full of promise. Joseph Prejean, only 21, was a young man whose life ended far too soon, leaving loved ones to grapple with sudden loss and unanswered questions.

This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how fragile life is and how quickly everything can change. In the wake of this loss, the Lafayette community comes together—holding space for grief, offering prayers for healing, and extending heartfelt condolences to the families and friends left behind.

May the memories of Cherita Washington, Chase Washington, and Joseph Prejean be carried forward with love. May their families find strength in one another and comfort in the compassion of a community that mourns alongside them.

Rest in peace. You are remembered. You are loved. You will not be forgotten.

TRUCKEE, CA — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and the wider outdoor community mourn the tragic loss of Chris Scott Thomason, a beloved 42-year-old from Bend, Oregon, whose life was taken far too soon in a backcountry avalanche near Castle Peak.

Search efforts concluded on the evening of January 5, bringing clarity to an incident that has deeply affected all who love the mountains and the spirit of adventure they inspire. Authorities have confirmed that all other individuals known to be in the area have been accounted for and are safe. There are no additional victims.

Chris was part of a close-knit group of five experienced snowmobilers who set out that day from the Johnson Canyon area for a planned ride to Castle Peak. The group was well-prepared, knowledgeable, and equipped for backcountry travel, wearing proper protective gear and avalanche beacons. Two members of the group were local to the area, familiar with the terrain, and trained in emergency response, while the remaining three—including Chris—were visiting from Bend, Oregon, bringing with them both experience and a shared passion for the outdoors.

On their return journey, tragedy struck when an avalanche was triggered on the backside of the mountain. Chris was buried beneath the snow. Without hesitation, his friends sprang into action, immediately locating his signal through their beacons and digging tirelessly to reach him. CPR was started as soon as he was uncovered, a testament to the courage, training, and love shared among the group.

In a remarkable moment of human solidarity, a separate group of three snowmobilers came upon the scene. Among them was an off-duty Truckee Fire medic, who quickly took charge of emergency efforts, coordinating CPR and lifesaving measures alongside Chris’s friends. Despite every precaution taken, every ounce of strength given, and the highest level of emergency care administered under extreme conditions, Chris sadly did not survive.

The Sheriff’s Office has expressed deep gratitude to the nearly 50 individuals who assisted in the rescue and recovery efforts, as well as to the four friends and three Good Samaritans who worked together against overwhelming odds. Their actions reflect the very best of the backcountry community—selfless, brave, and united in moments of crisis.

Chris Scott Thomason will be remembered not for the way he died, but for the way he lived: with adventure in his heart, loyalty to his friends, and a love for the mountains that shaped his life. His passing is a sobering reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature, even for the most prepared and experienced.

As his family, friends, and community grieve this profound loss, may they find comfort in knowing that Chris was surrounded by people who cared deeply for him and fought with everything they had to bring him home. His memory will live on in the snow-covered peaks he loved, in the friendships he cherished, and in the countless lives touched by his journey.

Rest in peace, Chris. You will never be forgotten.

With heavy hearts, we remember Bruno Lagana, a 20-year-old young man whose life was tragically lost after an incident involving the Greenfield Bridge and Parkway East. On Tuesday, the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office identified Bruno as the individual who jumped from the bridge onto the Parkway East. Police have stated the incident is being investigated as a likely suicide, though the medical examiner has not yet released an official cause and manner of death.

Bruno’s passing has left a profound sense of sorrow among his family, friends, and all who knew him. At just 20 years old, he had his whole life ahead of him—dreams still forming, experiences yet to be lived, and a future full of possibility. His loss is a painful reminder that struggles are often invisible and that even the brightest souls may be carrying heavy burdens.

Those who loved Bruno are remembering him for who he was beyond this heartbreaking moment: a son, a friend, and a young man whose life mattered deeply. Tributes and messages of love have begun to surface, each one reflecting the impact he had on others and the void his absence has left behind.

As the investigation continues, the community is being asked to hold Bruno’s loved ones close in thought and prayer. This tragedy underscores the importance of compassion, mental health awareness, and reaching out—both to those who may be struggling and to those left grieving in the aftermath.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with Bruno’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. Gone far too soon, Bruno Lagana will be remembered with love, tenderness, and respect.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available. You are not alone, and your life matters.

Rest in peace, Bruno Lagana.

#BrunoLagana

SAVANNAH, Ga. — The Savannah community is grieving the tragic loss of Matthew Traywick, who was killed in a deadly shooting Sunday afternoon in the Target parking lot on Abercorn Street. Traywick’s life was cut short in a senseless act of violence that has left friends, family, and neighbors mourning a life taken far too soon.

Savannah Police reported that 30-year-old Tyler Linn has been arrested in connection with the shooting. He faces charges of murder and aggravated assault. Authorities say the incident occurred around 4:10 p.m., following an argument over a parking space. When officers arrived on the scene, they found Traywick suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.

Tyler Linn, a former Army Specialist who served from August 2015 to October 2023, remained at the scene after the shooting. Linn was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield as an unmanned aircraft systems repairer from December 2021 until his departure from the military in October 2023 and had no deployments during his service.

The heartbreaking incident has resonated across Savannah, where community leaders expressed shock and sorrow over the unnecessary loss of life. Alderman Purtee noted that the shooting stemmed from a dispute over a parking space, emphasizing the preventable nature of the tragedy. Mayor Van Johnson also spoke out, saying, “No disagreement over a parking space, or anything else should ever end in the loss of life. This needless, unnecessary violence underscores the daily pain felt by families across our city and the urgency of our collective work to reduce gun violence and strengthen community safety.”

Traywick’s friends and loved ones have begun sharing memories and tributes, remembering him as a caring and vibrant individual whose presence brought light to those around him. “Matt had a way of making everyone feel welcome,” one friend said. “He had a big heart, and this loss is just unimaginable.”

Savannah Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Traywick’s death. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers at 912-234-2020 or submit an anonymous tip through the SPD mobile app.

As the community comes to terms with this tragic loss, Matthew Traywick will be remembered for his warmth, his kindness, and the moments of joy he shared with those who knew him. His life, though tragically shortened, leaves a lasting imprint on family, friends, and all who were touched by him.

JACKSON, Mich — The Somerset Township community is mourning the tragic loss of Charles Edward Fausak IV, 48, and his two cherished dogs, who were found dead in Somerset Lake on Monday morning. Authorities confirmed the discovery following a missing person report filed by Fausak’s family, who grew concerned when he did not return home from his nightly routine.

According to Somerset Township Police Chief, Fausak was known to take evening walks with his dogs around the lake, often leaving his home around 6 p.m. Family members described him as a devoted pet owner and a familiar, friendly presence in the neighborhood. “He loved his dogs deeply,” one relative said. “It was a nightly ritual that brought him joy and peace.”

The loss has sent ripples through the local community, where neighbors remembered Fausak as a kind and gentle soul. “He always had a smile and a wave when we saw him walking the dogs,” said a nearby resident. “It’s heartbreaking to hear that he and his dogs are gone.”

Somerset Township Police have confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation. Authorities are working diligently to determine the cause and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Friends and family have begun sharing tributes on social media, celebrating Fausak’s life and the companionship he shared with his dogs. “He had a way of making everyone feel welcome,” said a longtime friend. “He loved his dogs like family, and they loved him back in ways that only pets can. Their loss is immeasurable.”

As the investigation continues, the Somerset Township community rallies around Fausak’s loved ones, offering condolences and support during this incredibly difficult time. Services and memorial arrangements have not yet been announced, but friends encourage those who knew him to remember him as a devoted pet owner, a caring neighbor, and a man whose presence brought warmth to all who crossed his path.

Charles Edward Fausak IV and his dogs will be remembered fondly by family, friends, and the community he touched with his quiet kindness and love for life.

Wooster, Ohio – With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the Wooster community mourns the tragic loss of Kathryn E. Gluth, a 43-year-old woman whose life was cut short in a devastating head-on crash on the morning of Monday, January 5, 2026. Her passing has left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with grief and the painful reality of a life taken far too soon.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol Wooster Post, troopers responded at approximately 7:50 a.m. to a report of a two-vehicle crash on State Route 83, just south of Tolbert Road in Franklin Township, Wayne County. Investigators determined that a tan 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, driven southbound by Kathryn, was reportedly attempting to pass multiple vehicles in a clearly marked hazardous no-passing zone. At the same time, a gray 2024 Nissan Sentra was traveling northbound.

Despite both drivers attempting to brake, the Malibu crossed into the northbound lane and struck the Sentra head-on. Following the impact, the Malibu traveled off the east side of the roadway and came to rest in a ditch, while the Sentra rotated and stopped in the northbound lane. The force of the collision brought a quiet winter morning to a tragic standstill.

Kathryn Gluth, who was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Nissan Sentra, Korben D. G. Warren, 21, also of Wooster, was seat-belted and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported by Wooster Township EMS to Wooster Community Hospital for treatment.

Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Wooster Township Fire and EMS, Rigz Towing, the Wayne County Coroner’s Office, and the Ohio Department of Transportation. State Route 83 remained closed for approximately two hours as emergency crews worked and investigators documented the scene. Authorities have stated that alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be contributing factors, and the crash remains under investigation.

Beyond the details of the crash, Kathryn E. Gluth will be remembered as a person—not a statistic. She was someone’s loved one, a familiar face in her community, and a woman whose life held meaning, relationships, and memories that will endure long after this tragic day. Her loss leaves an irreplaceable void for those who knew and loved her.

This tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of how quickly lives can change on our roadways and the importance of caution, patience, and safety behind the wheel. In moments like these, the community comes together in mourning, reflection, and support for all those affected.

May Kathryn E. Gluth rest in eternal peace. May her family and friends find strength in one another, comfort in cherished memories, and healing in time. Though her life ended far too soon, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Vicksburg, Mississippi – With deep sadness and heavy hearts, the Vicksburg community mourns the tragic loss of Adam Reed, 51, and Daphne Flagg Reed, 52, a married couple whose lives ended in a heartbreaking incident that has left family, friends, and neighbors searching for understanding and comfort in the midst of sorrow.

According to the Vicksburg Police Department, officers responded before noon on Monday, January 5, to a welfare check at a residence in the 1300 block of South Street. Upon arrival, officers entered the home through an open door and discovered two individuals inside a bedroom. They were later identified as Adam Reed and his wife, Daphne Flagg Reed. Authorities have stated that, based on preliminary findings, the incident is being investigated as an apparent murder-suicide. A firearm was recovered at the scene, and officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

As the investigation continues, the facts provide only a framework for understanding what occurred. What remains far more significant is the human loss behind the investigation—two lives intertwined by marriage, shared history, and years of experiences that cannot be reduced to a single tragic moment. Adam and Daphne were more than names in a report; they were individuals who loved, were loved, and were part of a community that now feels their absence deeply.

Tragedies of this nature ripple far beyond the walls of a home. They leave families grappling with grief that is complex and overwhelming, friends struggling to reconcile memories with loss, and a community left to mourn not only the lives lost but the pain that led to such an outcome. In moments like these, compassion becomes essential—compassion for the loved ones left behind and for all those affected by the weight of sudden and devastating loss.

As Vicksburg reflects on this tragedy, it also serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, open conversations, and support for those who may be struggling in silence. Reaching out, listening, and offering help can make a difference, even when the signs are not always clear.

May Adam Reed and Daphne Flagg Reed be remembered with dignity and humanity. May their family and friends find strength in one another, comfort in cherished memories, and peace in time. Though their lives ended in tragedy, their lives still mattered, and they will not be forgotten.