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Family Demands Justice After Boy Struck, Killed Outside Chicago School

CHICAGO — Heartbreak and outrage are mounting after 9-year-old Anakin Perez was struck and killed outside McNair Elementary School on Chicago’s West Side. The tragedy happened Thursday morning as students were arriving for class. According to police and family members, Anakin was crossing the street toward the school when he was hit by a car driven by another parent. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the child being dragged about 75 feet.

The driver initially left the scene but later returned. She was questioned and released without charges, sparking anger and frustration from Anakin’s family, who say accountability is urgently needed. His mother, Alejandra Gallegos, said through tears that her son was “full of life” and deserved to make it safely into school.

Community members have since gathered at the site, creating a growing memorial of balloons, flowers, and handwritten notes. A vigil and balloon release were held in Anakin’s honor, drawing neighbors, classmates, and advocates calling for justice and safer school zones.

Local leaders and parents are urging Chicago Public Schools and the city to provide more crossing guards, signage, and “safe passage” staff to protect children walking to and from school. CPS officials confirmed that grief counselors are on campus to support students and staff processing the loss.

As the investigation continues, Anakin Perez’s loved ones say they will not stop until there is accountability. “It’s not OK,” one family member said. “We want justice for Anakin.”

Chicago Woman Faith Mitchell, 23, Killed in I-80 Crash in Gary, Indiana

Rest in Peace: Faith Mitchell

The Chicago community is mourning the tragic loss of Faith Vandell Mitchell, 23, who died following a devastating car crash on Interstate 80 near Cline Avenue in Gary, Indiana. According to the Lake County Coroner’s Office, the accident occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, September 21, 2025.

Faith, a resident of Chicago, sustained multiple blunt force and burn injuries as a result of the crash. Despite emergency response efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene. The incident remains under investigation by local authorities.

Friends, family members, and community members remember Faith as a vibrant young woman whose warmth and spirit touched everyone she met. Her sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who loved her. Condolences and prayers are being extended to her family during this unimaginably difficult time.

As the investigation into the crash continues, loved ones and supporters are encouraged to keep Faith’s family in their thoughts and prayers. She will be remembered not only for the tragedy of her passing but for the life, energy, and kindness she shared with others.

Marcus Dangerfield Obituary & Eastern Shore Crashes

The Maryland and Delaware communities are mourning the tragic loss of Marcus Dangerfield, 20, of Dover, Delaware, who died late Saturday, September 20, 2025, following a crash on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Marcus was riding his motorcycle on U.S. Route 301 near Hayden Clark Road in Centreville when the accident occurred. Despite emergency responders’ efforts, he passed away at the scene.

Marcus was known by family and friends as a vibrant, ambitious, and generous young man with a passion for motorcycles, sports, and spending time with loved ones. He graduated from high school in Dover and was pursuing new opportunities, always eager to help others and make a positive impact in his community. Those closest to him remember his warm smile, sense of humor, and his determination to live life to the fullest.

His untimely death has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. A memorial fund is being established to support funeral expenses and honor Marcus’s legacy. Details about visitation and funeral services will be shared by his family in the coming days.

Marcus Dangerfield’s life, though far too short, was filled with energy, kindness, and love. As his community grieves, they take comfort in the memories of his adventurous spirit and the joy he brought to so many. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Nashua Wedding Shooting Suspect Identified as 23-Year-Old Hunter Nadeau

NASHUA, N.H. — What began as a night of celebration turned into tragedy Saturday when a gunman opened fire during a wedding reception at the Sky Meadow Country Club, killing one guest and injuring several others just as the bride and groom prepared for their first dance.

Authorities have identified the suspect as Hunter Nadeau, 23, who was taken into custody at the scene. Nadeau has been charged with second-degree murder in the killing of Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, and prosecutors say additional charges are expected for the surviving victims. He is scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua.

According to witnesses, Nadeau entered the reception wearing a mask, raised his middle finger toward guests, and shouted “Free Palestine” and “the children are safe” before opening fire. Guests recalled hearing up to six shots as panic erupted inside the banquet hall.

“We were getting together for a dance for the bride and groom and then all chaos went off,” said Tom Bartelson, the groom’s uncle. “We heard about six shots, and everybody ducked for cover. Next thing you know, we’re rushed into safe spots.”

Authorities confirmed that two other adults were shot and wounded, while at least six more guests were hospitalized with injuries sustained as they scrambled for safety. None of those injuries were considered life-threatening.

Early reports suggested multiple shooters, prompting a widespread manhunt across southern New Hampshire and into Massachusetts. Investigators later confirmed, using surveillance footage, that Nadeau acted alone.

Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess condemned the attack, calling it a reminder that “this truly can happen anywhere,” while praising police for their swift response.

Officials said the motive remains under investigation.

Victim Identified in Nashua Wedding Shooting; Suspect Charged With Murder

NASHUA, N.H. — Authorities have identified the victim killed in Saturday night’s deadly shooting at the Sky Meadow Country Club and announced an arrest in the case.

New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella and Nashua Police Chief Kevin Rourke said Sunday that Hunter Nadeau, 23, has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of Robert Steven DeCesare, 59.

Investigators say Nadeau entered a wedding reception at the private country club around 7:30 p.m., wearing a mask. Witnesses reported he raised his middle finger toward guests and shouted phrases including “Free Palestine” and “the children are safe” before opening fire with a handgun.

DeCesare was fatally shot, and two other adults were wounded. Officials said there is no known prior connection between Nadeau and the victim.

Prosecutors indicated that additional charges are likely as the investigation continues, particularly in connection with the surviving victims.

Nadeau is scheduled to be arraigned Monday, Sept. 22, in Ninth Circuit Court in Nashua. Authorities stressed that the charges remain allegations at this stage and that Nadeau is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

The Attorney General’s Office said further details will be released as appropriate but emphasized protecting the integrity of ongoing proceedings.

The shooting has shaken the Nashua community, where the celebration of a wedding was turned into a tragedy.

2 Dead, 6 Injured in Allendale Mass Shooting During Block Party

SHREVEPORT, La. — Two people were killed and six others injured in a mass shooting early Saturday during a block party in Shreveport’s Allendale neighborhood, police said.

The gunfire erupted just after 2 a.m. in the 1600 block of Poland Avenue, where officers responding to multiple 911 calls found a crowd of about 150 people. Authorities described the scene as “chaotic.”

Police confirmed that the intended target of the shooting was among the injured but survived. All six wounded victims are expected to recover.

Investigators believe multiple shooters were involved and are calling the attack a “targeted” assault. No arrests had been made as of Sunday morning.

“This was a reckless and senseless act of violence that cut short two lives and left families shattered,” Police Chief Wayne Smith said in a statement. “To those responsible — turn yourselves in now. We will not stop until every person involved is held accountable.”

City leaders also condemned the tragedy. “Shreveport deserves safe streets; this kind of violence has no place here,” Mayor Tom Arceneaux said, adding that the city would “mourn the victims, pursue those responsible, and continue the hard work to make every neighborhood safer.”

Council Chairwoman Tabatha Taylor called on witnesses to cooperate. “Your cooperation is critical,” she said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Shreveport Police Department at (318) 673-7300 or Caddo Crime Stoppers at (318) 673-7373.

Shooter Identified in Deadly New Hampshire Wedding Attack

Authorities have identified the gunman accused of opening fire at a wedding reception in Nashua, New Hampshire, killing one guest and injuring two others.

Hunter Nadeau, 23, was charged Sunday with second-degree murder in the death of Robert Steven DeCesare, 59, Attorney General John M. Formella confirmed.

The attack unfolded around 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the upscale Sky Meadow Country Club, where guests had gathered for a private wedding celebration. Investigators say Nadeau entered the venue armed with a handgun and began firing indiscriminately.

DeCesare was fatally struck, while two other adult guests suffered non-life-threatening injuries. They were transported to local hospitals and remain in stable condition, officials said.

Nadeau was quickly subdued and taken into custody at the scene by responding officers. Prosecutors have not released details on his relationship, if any, to the wedding party or guests. His motive remains under investigation.

The shooting shocked attendees and rattled the quiet Nashua community. Witnesses described chaos as music cut off and guests scrambled for cover. “We just heard pops, then screaming,” one attendee told reporters.

Formella said additional charges may follow pending the ongoing investigation by state police and Nashua authorities. “This senseless act of violence at what should have been a joyous occasion is tragic,” he said.

Nadeau is expected to be arraigned in Hillsborough County Superior Court early this week.

Country Singer Spencer Hatcher Vows to Keep Performing After Mother’s Murder in Virginia Home Invasion

Country singer Spencer Hatcher has broken his silence weeks after his mother, Holly Hatcher, 62, was murdered during a random home invasion in Harrisonburg, Va.

In an Instagram video posted Sept. 9, Hatcher called the ordeal the “worst time of our lives” but said he would honor his mother by continuing to make music. “My mom was my biggest fan and my biggest supporter in everything that I did,” he said. “After a lot of thought and prayer… I’ve made the decision that I 100% want to continue making music and bringing smiles to people’s faces.”

The tragedy unfolded just before midnight on Aug. 3, when police say 41-year-old Kevin Moses Walker broke into the Hatchers’ home and attacked Holly and her husband, Michael, 65. Michael was stabbed but managed to retrieve a handgun from his car and fatally shoot the intruder. Authorities described the incident as “highly unusual and completely random.”

Investigators later learned Walker had purchased a knife and camping gear days earlier and abandoned his car nearby. He had no known history of violent behavior.

Holly Hatcher, a teacher for nearly two decades in rural Virginia, was remembered by her son as a driving force in his career.

Spencer Hatcher, best known for his single Drink You Gone, said he will resume his planned tour schedule. “I know that’s what my mom would want me to do… I’m going to keep on going as hard as I possibly can.”

Sen. Ron Wyden’s Children Accused of Driving Assistant to Suicide in Explosive Lawsuit

The children of U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) are accused of tormenting their mother’s longtime assistant, ultimately driving him to suicide, according to a Manhattan lawsuit.

Brandon O’Brien, 35, worked for Wyden’s wife, Nancy Bass Wyden — owner of New York’s landmark Strand Bookstore — from June 2022 to September 2024. His duties often included supervising the couple’s children, including on school runs and family trips to Disneyworld.

According to court papers filed by O’Brien’s widower, Thomas Maltezos, the senator’s then-10-year-old daughter allegedly exposed herself and made sexually explicit comments to O’Brien, while the teenage son repeatedly hurled homophobic slurs and threats. On one occasion, Bass Wyden accidentally sprayed O’Brien with mace while trying to restrain her son.

Maltezos claims the abuse left his husband distraught. O’Brien quit in September 2024, but Bass Wyden soon after accused him of stealing $650,000, launched a private investigation, and spread damaging rumors. Authorities later dropped the theft case after O’Brien died by suicide on May 26, 2025.

The lawsuit calls the treatment “shocking, disturbing, and cruel.” Bass Wyden’s attorneys, however, blasted the suit as “baseless” and said O’Brien had a “documented pattern of theft.”

Wyden, 76, has represented Oregon in the Senate since 1996. He married Bass Wyden in 2005, and the couple share three children.

Maltezos, who announced his husband’s death in a heartbreaking post, said O’Brien was known for his “quiet grace and unwavering loyalty.”

Michigan Boy, 11, Expelled After Disarming Armed Classmate

An 11-year-old Michigan student who bravely disarmed a gun-carrying classmate has been expelled from his middle school, sparking outrage from his family and supporters.

The boy, identified as Sakir, a seventh grader at Lansing’s Dwight Rich School of the Arts, reportedly saw another student with a firearm in May and quickly intervened. Drawing on his hunting background, Sakir safely disabled the weapon, according to a GoFundMe set up on behalf of his family.

But instead of being hailed as a hero, he was expelled for possession of a weapon after failing to immediately notify a teacher, his mother, Savitra McClurkin, told WILX.

“They kicked him out of school for the whole year,” McClurkin said, blasting the Lansing School District for “setting my son up for failure.”

Sakir, described as an A/B student and active in sports, feared he would get in trouble if he told teachers and didn’t want to implicate the student who brought the gun.

Community members rallied behind the family, calling the punishment unfair. “Instead of being recognized as a hero, Sakir is now being treated like a criminal,” the crowdfunding page states.

McClurkin has pleaded with the school board to reinstate her son, but members have not responded publicly. Sakir is currently enrolled in a non-accredited online program, leaving his mother to juggle homeschooling and financial strain.

It is unclear whether the student who brought the firearm to school faced disciplinary action.

The district is expected to review Sakir’s case at the end of the school year.