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On the early morning of Saturday, December 6, 2025, a tragic and heartbreaking incident forever changed the lives of a Yuma family and the entire community with the loss of 21-year-old Mariella Acosta. At approximately 4:45 AM, the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office responded to a devastating vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision near S. Avenue B and W. County 14th Street—a quiet stretch of roadway now marked by profound loss.

The victim, 21-year-old Mariella Acosta of Yuma, Arizona, was walking along the side of the road when she was struck by a passing vehicle. The driver did not stop. Despite the swift response of authorities and emergency personnel, Mariella was tragically pronounced deceased at the scene. Her passing has left a deep void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.

A Life Gone Too Soon

Mariella’s life, though only 21 years young, was filled with warmth, promise, and dreams that reflected the bright future ahead of her. To her family, she was a radiant source of joy—someone whose laughter lit up a room and whose kindness touched the lives of many. Friends describe her as gentle, compassionate, and full of life, always willing to lend a hand or offer a smile to someone who needed it.

Her presence brought comfort. Her spirit brought hope. And her absence leaves an ache that words can scarcely capture.

Mariella had so much yet to experience, so many goals yet to chase, and so much love yet to give. Losing her so suddenly, and so senselessly, is a pain no family should ever have to endure. But today, her loved ones honor her by remembering the beauty she brought into their lives—the memories that will forever remain alive in their hearts.

Seeking Justice and Community Support

The vehicle involved in the collision is described as possibly a sedan or coupe with front passenger-side damage near the headlamp area. The case remains an active and ongoing investigation. The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, alongside Mariella’s family, is urging the community to come forward with any information that may help bring clarity, accountability, and justice for her.

Even the smallest detail can make a difference. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office at 928-783-4427 or 78-CRIME for anonymous reporting. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Sheriff’s Office website.

Forever Remembered

As her family navigates this unimaginable loss, they cling tightly to the love, memories, and moments that defined Mariella’s life. They ask the community to keep her in their thoughts and prayers, and to honor her by cherishing their loved ones, driving safely, and speaking up when wrongdoing occurs.

Though she may no longer walk beside us, Mariella Acosta’s spirit will continue to live on—in the hearts she touched, in the memories she created, and in the love she left behind.

May she rest in eternal peace, and may justice be served for the young life taken far too soon.

 

CLEVELAND — With heavy hearts, we remember and honor the life of Monte Baker, a beloved son, friend, and young man whose bright future was tragically cut short in the early hours of Sunday morning. Monte, just 23 years old, lost his life in a shooting that occurred outside a downtown Cleveland nightclub, leaving family, friends, and an entire community in mourning.

According to the Cleveland Division of Police, officers were dispatched around 2:30 a.m. to Medusa Restaurant and Lounge following reports of gunfire. When they arrived on the scene, they found Monte suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed his identity, bringing a wave of grief and heartbreak to those who knew and loved him.

Monte Baker was more than a headline or a statistic. He was a young man remembered for his laughter, his kindness, and the way he could light up a room with his presence. Friends describe him as loyal, hardworking, and full of dreams. Whether he was spending time with loved ones, encouraging those around him, or planning for the future, Monte carried a spirit that touched lives in quiet but meaningful ways.

His passing has left an unfillable void. Parents have lost a son, siblings have lost a brother, and friends have lost a confidant who stood by them through life’s highs and lows. The pain of losing someone so young and in such a sudden, violent manner is beyond words, and the heartbreak stretches far beyond those who knew him personally.

Homicide detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. At this time, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not yet released details about what may have led to the incident or where exactly on the property it occurred. The lack of answers only deepens the sorrow felt by a community searching for justice, understanding, and peace.

As this investigation remains ongoing, the memory of Monte Baker lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. His life, though short, made a lasting impact. He will be remembered for his smile, his resilience, and the love he gave freely to others. In moments like these, we are reminded of how precious and fragile life is.

Monte’s legacy is one of love and light that violence can never erase. Though his voice has been silenced, his memory will forever speak through the lives he touched.

Rest in peace, Monte Baker. You are gone, but you will never be forgotten.

FAYETTE COUNTY, Ky. — Hearts across Fayette County are heavy today as the community mourns the tragic loss of 30-year-old Dominga Mendoza Gonzalez, who was killed in a devastating crash on Winchester Road earlier this week. What began as an ordinary trip along a familiar roadway ended in unimaginable sorrow, leaving family, friends, and all who knew her searching for comfort in the wake of a life taken far too soon.

The crash occurred on Winchester Road between Bahama Road and Man O’ War Boulevard, a stretch of road now marked by grief and unanswered questions. According to the Fayette County Coroner’s Office, Dominga’s cause of death has been listed as multiple blunt force injuries, and her manner of death is classified as accidental. She was pronounced dead at the scene after a crash that left her vehicle flipped and broken beyond recognition.

Authorities say the vehicle Dominga was traveling in was heading inbound on Winchester Road when it suddenly left the roadway, struck a culvert, overturned, and broke through a fence at Bittersweet Farm. It was a farm worker, making routine rounds to check the property’s fencing, who discovered the wreckage — a moment that would soon signal heartbreak for an entire family.

While the driver of the vehicle was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, Dominga did not survive. The coroner, Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn, confirmed that one life had been lost in the collision, and another remained in critical condition. He also noted that investigators are unsure whether the crash occurred late Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning. Police have not determined what caused the vehicle to veer off the road.

The inbound lanes of Winchester Road were closed for hours as investigators worked to piece together the events that led to the tragedy. What they cannot capture in measurements and photographs, however, is the profound loss of a woman whose presence brought joy, love, and warmth to so many.

In Loving Memory, Dominga Mendoza Gonzalez is remembered as someone full of life and kindness — a daughter, a friend, a loved one whose spirit will continue to touch those she leaves behind. She had dreams, plans, and the quiet strength of someone who carried love into every space she entered. Her sudden passing is not only a loss felt by her family but by the broader community now holding them in its prayers.

As the investigation continues, the focus for those who loved Dominga is honoring her memory, cherishing the moments they shared, and ensuring her life is remembered not for the tragedy that ended it but for the beauty, compassion, and love that defined it.

May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A quiet sadness hangs over Kansas City today as friends, family, and community members mourn the heartbreaking loss of 27-year-old Jerome A. Hawkins, who was shot and killed early Wednesday morning on the city’s east side. What began as another cold December night ended in tragedy, leaving loved ones shattered and a community searching for answers.

Just before 1:30 a.m. on December 3, police were called to the area near East 25th Street and Hardesty Avenue, only a few blocks from Blue Valley Park. Call notes indicated a man was lying on the sidewalk, unresponsive. When officers arrived, they found Jerome’s body — young, full of potential, and now gone — with visible gunshot wounds. Despite immediate response, there was nothing more first responders could do.

On Wednesday, the Kansas City Police Department formally identified the victim as Jerome A. Hawkins, a man whose life meant far more than the circumstances of his death. For those who knew him, Jerome was more than a statistic or a headline. He was a son, a friend, a companion, a neighbor — a person whose presence brought meaning and light into the lives of others.

In loving memory, Jerome is remembered for his warm spirit, his easy laughter, and the quiet strength he carried with him. At 27, he was still carving out his path, building hopes for the future, and trying to make his way through the world. His life was still unfolding — a life with dreams, relationships, and stories that deserved time to grow. His sudden loss leaves a void impossible to measure.

As detectives work tirelessly to find answers — interviewing witnesses, examining physical evidence, and reviewing every piece of available surveillance footage — the grief felt by those who loved Jerome weighs heavily. The search for a suspect continues, but for his family and friends, the pain is immediate and profound.

Communities often speak of the senselessness of violence, but when a life as young as Jerome’s is cut short, that truth becomes painfully real. His absence will be felt at every gathering, every shared moment, every memory recalled by the people whose lives intertwined with his.

In this time of immense sorrow, may Jerome’s life be honored with love, remembrance, and the determination to seek justice. May those who knew him find comfort in the moments they shared, and may his spirit remain alive in the stories and hearts he leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Jerome. You are remembered. You are loved. Your life mattered.

CANTON, Ohio — December 3, 2025 — Stark County Sheriff Eric Weisburn has confirmed that Daniel Zachary Mattay, an inmate housed in the Stark County Jail, died by suicide Wednesday morning. The incident occurred at 9:22 a.m., prompting an immediate response from correctional staff and medical personnel.

Jail staff administered emergency medical care, including CPR, before Mattay was transported by the Canton Fire Department to Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

Mattay had been indicted on multiple charges, including murder for the death of Ryan Godbey. He was scheduled to appear for a plea hearing on December 10, 2025, but had not yet stood trial nor been convicted.

The incident remains under investigation. The Stark County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the Ohio Bureau of Adult Detention and the Stark County Coroner’s Office as they review the circumstances surrounding Mattay’s death and evaluate all relevant evidence.

Officials stated that additional information will be released as the investigation progresses.

LAKE WALES, FL — On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at approximately 1:15 p.m., the Lake Wales Police Department responded to a shooting that left 20-year-old Jayvyn McFadden dead, and resulted in the arrest of 19-year-old Miles Edward Brown, who voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement. As the community continues to process the tragic events of that afternoon, family, friends, and neighbors are focusing on honoring the life, spirit, and memory of Jayvyn—a young man taken far too soon.

According to officials, officers were dispatched to the area of South 9th Street and Columbia Avenue after multiple reports of gunfire. When police arrived, Jayvyn was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. First responders acted swiftly, providing emergency care and transporting him to a nearby hospital. Despite every effort, Jayvyn was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival, leaving a deep and painful void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Jayvyn was more than a headline—he was a son, a friend, and a bright presence whose laughter and kindness left lasting impressions. Growing up in Lake Wales, he was known for his loyalty, his warm personality, and the way he could brighten any room he entered. His life was filled with dreams he was eager to pursue, and his loved ones will forever remember the joy and energy he brought to their lives.

As the investigation progressed, 19-year-old Miles Edward Brown of Frostproof voluntarily arrived at the Lake Wales Police Department. Authorities interviewed Brown and arrested him on charges of second-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Police have stated that no other suspects are being sought and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation remains active as detectives continue gathering information and working to understand the circumstances surrounding Jayvyn’s tragic death.

While the legal process moves forward, the Lake Wales community is united in grief and reflection. Candlelight gatherings, heartfelt tributes, and expressions of support have emerged as friends and family come together to remember Jayvyn’s life and honor his memory. Those closest to him say they will not let this tragedy define who he was. Instead, they choose to celebrate his laughter, his compassion, his dreams, and the unforgettable moments he shared with them.

Jayvyn’s loved ones ask the community to remember him not for the violence that ended his life, but for the love, hope, and promise he carried throughout his 20 years. They find comfort in knowing that his presence touched many, and that his spirit will continue to live on through the memories cherished by family and friends.

The Lake Wales Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact investigators at (863) 678-4223, or reach out anonymously through Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).

As the community mourns, one message rings clear: Jayvyn McFadden will never be forgotten. His life, though far too short, will continue to be honored, cherished, and remembered with love.

 

 

LAKE WALES, FL — On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at approximately 1:15 p.m., the Lake Wales Police Department responded to a shooting that left 20-year-old Jayvyn McFadden dead, and resulted in the arrest of 19-year-old Miles Edward Brown, who voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement.

According to officials, officers were dispatched to the area of South 9th Street and Columbia Avenue after multiple 911 callers reported hearing gunshots. When police arrived, they located Jayvyn McFadden, a Lake Wales resident, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately rendered aid while calling for emergency medical personnel.

Paramedics quickly transported McFadden to a nearby hospital; however, despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. The shooting triggered a large-scale police response as investigators began canvassing the neighborhood, collecting evidence, and interviewing witnesses.

As the investigation unfolded, 19-year-old Miles Edward Brown of Frostproof arrived at the Lake Wales Police Department, where he voluntarily surrendered himself to authorities. Detectives interviewed Brown and subsequently placed him under arrest. He has been charged with second-degree murder as well as tampering with evidence connected to the deadly shooting.

Police state that, based on the evidence gathered so far, no other suspects are being sought, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. Detectives remained on the scene for several hours on Tuesday afternoon, marking shell casings, documenting physical evidence, and working to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter.

The Lake Wales Police Department emphasized that the case is still an active investigation. Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything related to the shooting—or who has relevant information—to come forward. Community members can contact the Lake Wales Police Department directly at (863) 678-4223, or they may report information anonymously through Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-888-400-TIPS (8477).

More updates are expected as investigators continue to piece together the events that resulted in the tragic death of Jayvyn McFadden.

GALESBURG, Ill. — The Galesburg community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Jordan Ball, a beloved 7th-grade teacher and coach at Galesburg Junior Senior High School, who was tragically killed in a car crash Monday afternoon on U.S. Route 34 between Oneida and Wataga. At just 26 years old, Jordan’s life was devoted to education, mentorship, and helping young people believe in their potential. His sudden passing has left students, colleagues, and families across the region in sorrow.

The crash occurred on U.S. 34 at Knox Road 900 East, where Jordan’s vehicle collided with a semi-truck amid reports of slick, hazardous road conditions. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Jordan was pronounced dead at the scene. The Illinois State Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision.

A Teacher, Coach, and Role Model

On Tuesday morning, Galesburg Junior Senior High School released a heartfelt message mourning Jordan’s loss:

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our dedicated 7th-grade teacher and coach, Jordan Ball. He was a caring educator who touched the lives of countless students at Galesburg Junior Senior High School. We extend our deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time.”

Jordan was known for his patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his students. Whether in the classroom or on the sidelines, he brought enthusiasm, dedication, and encouragement—qualities that students say made him not only a teacher, but a mentor and a friend. His impact extended far beyond academics; he built relationships, lifted spirits, and made students feel seen.

A graduate of Monmouth College, Jordan began his education career in the Monmouth-Roseville school district, where he taught and coached before joining the Galesburg community. Colleagues remember him as the kind of educator who stayed after practice to help a struggling athlete, who never hesitated to brighten someone’s day, and who approached his job with a rare combination of professionalism and heart.

Support for Students and Staff

In the wake of Jordan’s passing, ROE #33’s School Crisis Response Team has been made available throughout the day inside the school library to support students, parents, teachers, and staff. Counselors are offering emotional support, grief resources, and a safe space for anyone struggling to process the loss.

Many families have expressed appreciation for the immediate response, noting the profound effect Jordan had on young people and how deeply the school community is grieving.

Support for Jordan’s Family

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been created to support Jordan Ball’s family during this devastating time. Donations continue to pour in from former students, coworkers, parents, and community members—each gift accompanied by messages of love, gratitude, and memories of the teacher who changed so many lives.

A Community United in Grief

The loss of Jordan Ball has rippled far beyond the school walls. Students have shared stories of how he inspired them to try harder, believe in themselves, and never give up. Fellow teachers say he brought energy and kindness into every room he walked into. Parents say he earned their trust, cared for their children, and treated them with compassion.

Galesburg is mourning not just an educator, but a young man whose future was bright and whose presence made the world kinder.

Road Safety Reminder

Authorities are reminding the public to use caution as winter road conditions persist. On the day of the crash, roads in the area were reportedly slick, and the stretch of highway was closed for several hours before reopening Monday night.

Honoring Jordan’s Legacy

As the investigation continues, what remains certain is the profound legacy Jordan leaves behind. His dedication to teaching, his love for coaching, and the countless lives he touched will be remembered for years to come. While the halls of Galesburg Junior Senior High School feel emptier today, Jordan’s impact lives on—in the students he guided, the lessons he taught, and the kindness he showed every day.

Rest in peace, Jordan Ball. Your memory lives on in all the lives you touched.

 

GALESBURG, Ill. — The Galesburg community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Jordan Ball, a beloved 7th-grade teacher and coach at Galesburg Junior Senior High School, who was tragically killed in a car crash Monday afternoon on U.S. Route 34 between Oneida and Wataga. At just 26 years old, Jordan’s life was devoted to education, mentorship, and helping young people believe in their potential. His sudden passing has left students, colleagues, and families across the region in sorrow.

The crash occurred on U.S. 34 at Knox Road 900 East, where Jordan’s vehicle collided with a semi-truck amid reports of slick, hazardous road conditions. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Jordan was pronounced dead at the scene. The Illinois State Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision.

A Teacher, Coach, and Role Model

On Tuesday morning, Galesburg Junior Senior High School released a heartfelt message mourning Jordan’s loss:

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our dedicated 7th-grade teacher and coach, Jordan Ball. He was a caring educator who touched the lives of countless students at Galesburg Junior Senior High School. We extend our deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time.”

Jordan was known for his patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his students. Whether in the classroom or on the sidelines, he brought enthusiasm, dedication, and encouragement—qualities that students say made him not only a teacher, but a mentor and a friend. His impact extended far beyond academics; he built relationships, lifted spirits, and made students feel seen.

A graduate of Monmouth College, Jordan began his education career in the Monmouth-Roseville school district, where he taught and coached before joining the Galesburg community. Colleagues remember him as the kind of educator who stayed after practice to help a struggling athlete, who never hesitated to brighten someone’s day, and who approached his job with a rare combination of professionalism and heart.

Support for Students and Staff

In the wake of Jordan’s passing, ROE #33’s School Crisis Response Team has been made available throughout the day inside the school library to support students, parents, teachers, and staff. Counselors are offering emotional support, grief resources, and a safe space for anyone struggling to process the loss.

Many families have expressed appreciation for the immediate response, noting the profound effect Jordan had on young people and how deeply the school community is grieving.

Support for Jordan’s Family

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been created to support Jordan Ball’s family during this devastating time. Donations continue to pour in from former students, coworkers, parents, and community members—each gift accompanied by messages of love, gratitude, and memories of the teacher who changed so many lives.

A Community United in Grief

The loss of Jordan Ball has rippled far beyond the school walls. Students have shared stories of how he inspired them to try harder, believe in themselves, and never give up. Fellow teachers say he brought energy and kindness into every room he walked into. Parents say he earned their trust, cared for their children, and treated them with compassion.

Galesburg is mourning not just an educator, but a young man whose future was bright and whose presence made the world kinder.

Road Safety Reminder

Authorities are reminding the public to use caution as winter road conditions persist. On the day of the crash, roads in the area were reportedly slick, and the stretch of highway was closed for several hours before reopening Monday night.

Honoring Jordan’s Legacy

As the investigation continues, what remains certain is the profound legacy Jordan leaves behind. His dedication to teaching, his love for coaching, and the countless lives he touched will be remembered for years to come. While the halls of Galesburg Junior Senior High School feel emptier today, Jordan’s impact lives on—in the students he guided, the lessons he taught, and the kindness he showed every day.

Rest in peace, Jordan Ball. Your memory lives on in all the lives you touched.

 

MILWAUKEE, WI — A Milwaukee community is grappling with shock and heartbreak after 31-year-old Rip Marco was identified as the victim of a shooting that occurred Monday morning, December 2, near North 42nd Street and West Auer Avenue. What began as a typical morning in the neighborhood was shattered by sudden gunfire that left a beloved member of the community critically injured.

According to Milwaukee Police, the shooting happened at approximately 9:45 a.m., when an unknown individual fired multiple rounds into the vehicle Rip Marco was driving. Early reports indicate he was struck approximately eight times, a level of trauma that would leave most fighting for life within seconds. Yet despite the severity of his injuries, officials noted that Rip was awake and breathing when help arrived—an indication of his strength, resilience, and will to survive.

Emergency responders transported him for immediate medical care, and family members, friends, and loved ones soon gathered in prayer, hoping he would pull through. However, as the day unfolded, the community learned the devastating news: Rip Marco had passed away as a result of the injuries sustained in the attack.

A Life Cut Too Short

Those who knew Rip describe him as someone with a warm presence, a loyal heart, and a quiet strength that made people feel at ease. At just 31 years old, he had so much life ahead of him—dreams, plans, and moments that will now forever remain unwritten. His loss is felt deeply by all who loved him, from family and close friends to neighbors who saw him grow and become the man he was.

Rip’s life, his laughter, and his kindness will be remembered in every story shared, every memory held close, and every person he touched along the way.

The Search for Answers

Milwaukee Police have launched an active investigation into what led to the shooting. Detectives are working to identify the individual or individuals responsible for firing into Rip’s vehicle and ending his life. The motive remains unclear, and authorities have not yet announced any arrests or persons of interest.

Investigators are asking anyone with information—whether eyewitness accounts, home surveillance footage, or any detail that could help piece together the events—to contact the Milwaukee Police Department. Cooperation from the community may be essential in finding justice for Rip.

A Community in Mourning

The area near N. 42nd and W. Auer has seen its share of struggle, but the death of Rip Marco has shaken residents on a deeply personal level. Candles, memorial flowers, and handwritten notes have slowly begun to appear near the site of the shooting, placed by friends, family, and neighbors who refuse to let his memory fade into yet another statistic.

In moments like this, loved ones are reminded of the preciousness of life and the devastating impact violence has on families and communities. Rip Marco’s name, his smile, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.

As the community mourns, they also look toward justice—justice for Rip, and peace for the family now grieving the unimaginable.