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Chicago Suspect Shot by Police After Knife Confrontation on West Side

Chicago – A man armed with a knife was shot by Chicago police officers Wednesday night in the Austin neighborhood, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on the 5200-block of West Madison Street.

According to police, officers encountered the suspect advancing toward civilians while holding a large knife in the street. Multiple verbal commands were given for the man to drop the weapon. When he continued moving toward the officers, non-lethal attempts with Tasers were made but proved ineffective.

As the suspect advanced further, an officer discharged their firearm, wounding the man. He was transported to a nearby hospital in serious but stable condition.

The officers involved have been reassigned to routine administrative duties for 30 days pending the ongoing investigation. The Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) is reviewing the shooting to ensure proper procedures were followed.

Chicago police officials note that this incident comes amid heightened scrutiny, following a separate shooting earlier involving an off-duty suburban officer on the city’s South Side.

Authorities urge the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.

Disney Influencer’s Children Killed, Husband in ICU After Fatal Nebraska Crash

Nebraska – A Disney content creator is mourning the devastating loss of her two children after a fatal car crash left her husband in intensive care. Keeley Whitcomb, a travel agent and social media influencer, shared the heartbreaking news on TikTok, describing it as “the worst day of my life.”

The Adams County Sheriff’s Department responded to the two-vehicle collision near Hastings, where a pickup truck driven by Whitcomb’s husband, Blake Whitcomb, collided with a forage wagon operated by 66-year-old Dale Feik. Both drivers were rushed to Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital, with Blake Whitcomb admitted to the ICU. Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in the crash.

Tragically, Keeley’s 10-year-old daughter, Laynee Rae Keeley, and Blake’s 7-year-old son, Ryder, were pronounced dead at the scene. The influencer shared heartfelt tributes to both children on social media, expressing her love and sorrow.

Laynee’s grandmother, Cheryl Gardner, also took to Facebook, saying, “Yesterday, Heaven got a new angel. Fly high Ryder and thank you for blessing me, if only for a short time.”

The Whitcombs’ tragedy has drawn an outpouring of support from friends, followers, and the online Disney community, highlighting the profound impact of the loss on all who knew them.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Keeley Whitcomb has indicated she will be stepping away from her Disney-related content to focus on her family during this unimaginable time.

Boston Commuter Arrested After Shoving Elderly Woman Off Bus

Boston, MA – Authorities have arrested a woman in connection with a shocking incident on a Boston bus that left an elderly passenger injured. Security footage shows the suspect violently shoving the senior woman toward the bus’s open doors before delivering a second forceful push, causing her to fall face-first onto the sidewalk.

The incident occurred in Roxbury, near Martin Luther King Boulevard and Warren Street, and was captured on video, drawing widespread public concern. Paramedics arrived within 20 minutes, and the elderly woman, though shaken, did not sustain serious injuries.

Police report that the unidentified suspect had been pushing a baby stroller at the time and fled the scene before officers arrived. Detectives later located and arrested her. Authorities have not yet released her name.

Witnesses described the assault as shocking and unnecessary. Dorothy Stringer, a local resident, told reporters that the assailant “needs some anger management… that’s wrong what she did.”

The MBTA Transit Police continue to investigate the incident, and the suspect is expected to face charges related to assault. Officials urge commuters to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

The case has sparked conversations about public safety on city buses and the importance of ensuring vulnerable passengers are protected.

York County Police Shooting: Shooter’s Identity Still Unconfirmed

York County, PA – As the community continues to grieve one of the deadliest tragedies in Pennsylvania law enforcement history, rumors are circulating online naming a suspect in Wednesday’s police ambush. Several posts have claimed that the alleged gunman was Shawn Zumbrum, linked to the residence on Harr Road in Spring Grove.

However, authorities have not confirmed the identity of the shooter. As of today, Pennsylvania State Police have only stated that the suspect died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following the deadly standoff. Officials have deliberately withheld the name while the investigation remains active and families are still being notified.

The spread of unverified information has fueled confusion and added to the pain felt by a community already devastated by the deaths of at least three officers and the critical injuries of others. Law enforcement leaders have urged the public to avoid speculation, stressing the importance of verified updates.

Until an official statement is released, any name being circulated online — including “Shawn Zumbrum” — should be treated as unconfirmed and inaccurate. Responsible reporting and respect for the victims’ families require patience as investigators complete their process.

The York County tragedy remains under investigation, and updates from Pennsylvania State Police are expected in the coming days.

Baby Died After Mother Went on Vodka Binge to Celebrate Birthday

A tragic case has emerged in Stoke-on-Trent, where a five-month-old baby girl died after her mother spent the night drinking vodka and partying instead of properly caring for her.

Natasha Birks, 37, had sole responsibility for her daughter, Rhian Mahoney, when she placed her on a sofa and began celebrating her birthday with a friend. The two consumed large amounts of vodka mixed with orange juice and Irish cream liqueur, leaving the baby unattended for long stretches of the night.

Prosecutors told Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court that Birks only checked on Rhian from a distance, occasionally glancing from the dining room doorway, rather than carrying out proper checks. When the infant failed to wake for her usual middle-of-the-night feed, Birks did not notice. By the time paramedics were called the following morning, Rhian had already passed away.

Elaine Radway of the Crown Prosecution Service said:

“Natasha Birks chose to drink heavily while responsible for her five-month-old baby who was entirely dependent on her. Although she did not cause her child’s death or foresee this devastating outcome, her level of intoxication meant she could not provide the supervision Rhian needed.”

Birks was found guilty of child cruelty. She will be sentenced in December.

The devastating loss of Rhian Mahoney has sent shockwaves through the community, with the court stressing the vital duty of parents to protect vulnerable children.

Sheffield Man Ernest Hall Remembered as ‘True Gentleman’

Sheffield is mourning the loss of Ernest Hall, a well-known former engineer described by those closest to him as a “true gentleman.” He passed away peacefully at the age of 82, just months after returning to his home city following more than a decade in Cornwall.

Born on Christmas Eve in 1942 at Brook Hill near the old Jessop Hospital, Ernest was one of seven siblings, growing up with four sisters and two brothers. In 1965, he married Joyce, and together they recently celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary — a testament to 60 years of love and devotion.

The couple raised three children: daughter Deborah and twin sons Gary and Sean, all born within the same year. Ernest was also a proud grandfather to five grandchildren — Elliot David, Rebecca Jade, William Sean, Dominic Gary, and Emma Louise — each of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Ernest dedicated much of his working life to engineering, spending years as a surface grinder before retraining as a saw doctor. He retired in 2007 from Tyzack’s on Shepcote Lane, a company that carried on the legacy of his previous employers.

Outside of work, he was a man of varied passions. He loved fishing, metal detecting, and short mat bowling, and in earlier years enjoyed sequence and ballroom dancing with Joyce, which brought them a rich social life.

Joyce reflected: “A lot of his friends described him as a gentleman and a nice man. He was always helpful and friendly. As a husband, he always worked hard and was supportive.”

Ernest’s life, defined by dedication to his family, strong work ethic, and warmth of character, leaves behind a legacy of love and respect.

Remembering Irene Downes (Flowers)

It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Irene Downes (Flowers), a woman remembered for her strength, courage, and unwavering love for her family.

Irene’s life was marked by resilience in the face of challenges and dignity in how she carried herself through them. She silently endured hardships that tested her spirit, yet she never allowed them to define her. Instead, she taught those around her the value of perseverance, compassion, and integrity.

Those who knew Irene remember her as a devoted mother, a loving wife, and a kind soul who always put others before herself. She shared a special bond with her late husband, Phil, with whom she built many cherished memories. Their love is now eternal, as they are reunited once more.

Her family reflects on her life as an example of strength — how she confronted struggles with grace and how she turned pain into lessons that inspired others. Irene’s legacy is one of love, quiet bravery, and unshakable devotion.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched with her kindness and courage.

May she rest in peace.

D.D. Lewis, Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Linebacker, Dead at 79

D.D. Lewis, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Dallas Cowboys and one of Mississippi State’s most decorated players, has died at the age of 79, the team announced this week.

Born in Tennessee, Lewis made his mark at Mississippi State beginning in 1965, quickly rising as one of the top defensive players in the country. He was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year in 1967 and earned consensus All-American honors the same season. His collegiate success later earned him induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001 and Mississippi State’s Ring of Honor in 2011.

Lewis was drafted in the sixth round by the Cowboys in 1968. His 13-year NFL career, briefly interrupted in 1969 for military service, was defined by consistency and toughness. He appeared in nearly every game during his career, missing only four regular-season contests.

During his time in Dallas, Lewis became a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense, helping lead the franchise through one of its most successful eras. He won two Super Bowls, in 1972 and 1978, while appearing in three additional championship games and seven conference title contests. His standout moment came in the 1975 NFC Championship, when he intercepted two passes against the Rams, sending Dallas to the Super Bowl.

Beloved for his wit as well as his play, Lewis is remembered for his famous line about the Cowboys’ old home: “Texas Stadium has a hole in its roof so God can watch his favorite team play.”

Sen. Jim Banks’ Brother Has Passed Away, Family Says

Senator Jim Banks of Indiana is mourning the loss of his brother, Chad Banks, who recently passed away, his family announced. Chad, known for his dedicated public service, served as a Whitley County Commissioner and was also a proud U.S. Air Force veteran.

Family members described Chad as a devoted husband and father of six children. He was deeply committed both to his community and to his family. “Our family is devastated,” Sen. Banks said, asking for prayers for Chad’s wife Sarah, their children, as well as their parents and extended family.

Though the cause of death has not been made public, Chad Banks’ impact on his local community was clear. As a County Commissioner, he worked tirelessly on local issues, and his military service added another layer of respect to his legacy.

Community leaders and friends have expressed condolences, highlighting Chad’s work ethic and character. Across social media and local news outlets, people reflected on the positive influence he had in Whitley County and beyond. Many remembered him as a compassionate public servant and a loving family man.

Sen. Banks and his family are asking for privacy at this time as they grieve. Further details about services or memorials are expected to be released when available.

Chad Banks’ passing marks a significant loss not only to his family but also to the Indiana community he served. His dedication, service and kindness will continue to be remembered by all who knew him.

Patriots Corner: Remembering Cathy Johnston

The Defense Intel Alumni Association (DIAA) is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of our colleague and dear friend Cathy Johnston.

Cathy passed away while visiting her daughter in Michigan, where she was joyfully awaiting the arrival of her new grandchild. Her loss has left a profound void in the DIAA family and among all who were fortunate to know her.

Known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support, Cathy touched countless lives during her years of service and friendship. Colleagues remember her as a generous mentor and a loyal friend whose positive spirit lifted every room she entered.

“Cathy embodied the best of who we are,” said one DIAA member. “Her compassion, humor and dedication will be remembered always.”

The DIAA community extends its heartfelt condolences to Cathy’s family and friends during this difficult time. Her memory will remain a blessing to those who loved her and worked alongside her.

Additional details about services and memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available.

Cathy Johnston’s passing is not only a loss to her family but also to the broader Defense Intel community. Her legacy of service, kindness, and connection will continue to inspire.