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Armed Man Impersonating Officer Arrested at Charlie Kirk Memorial in Arizona

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Authorities arrested Joshua Runkles, 42, after he was found armed and allegedly posing as law enforcement inside State Farm Stadium, the site of Charlie Kirk’s upcoming memorial service. Secret Service agents detained Runkles on Friday after he presented “inactive law enforcement credentials” and claimed he was there to provide private security. Officials say he was carrying a knife and a firearm.

Runkles, reportedly a former deputy sheriff from Idaho, was taken into custody by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and booked on charges of impersonating an officer, a felony in Arizona, and carrying a weapon into a prohibited location, a misdemeanor. He has since been released on bond, though authorities continue investigating his intent.

The memorial, titled Building a Legacy: Remembering Charlie Kirk, is expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The Department of Homeland Security designated the event a level-1 “special event assessment rating,” reserved for events of the highest national significance, allowing federal authorities to provide enhanced security measures.

Security preparations include hundreds of law enforcement personnel, metal detectors, no-bag policies, and discreet measures to protect attendees. Federal officials warned that high-profile attendees could attract threats, highlighting the importance of vigilance.

Runkles allegedly entered the stadium before secure perimeters were established, raising questions about how he bypassed early security measures. Secret Service and local law enforcement continue to review his background and motives to ensure safety for Sunday’s service.

Gun That Killed Charlie Kirk Was a Century-Old, Potentially Untraceable Rifle

The rifle Tyler Robinson allegedly used to assassinate Charlie Kirk was so old it predates federal serial number requirements, making it untraceable. The weapon, a Mauser Model 98, was German-made and saw use in both World Wars. Robinson referred to it in texts as “grandpa’s rifle,” and the rifle had been in circulation long before laws mandated firearms be marked with unique, traceable numbers.

Authorities say millions of such vintage rifles exist in private homes across the U.S., raising concerns about their potential misuse. The bolt-action 30-06 caliber rifle, slightly smaller than 8 millimeters, must be reloaded between shots. Robinson allegedly discarded it wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near Utah Valley University shortly after using it to kill Kirk during an outdoor event. DNA recovered from the weapon matched Robinson, according to court filings.

Text messages suggest Robinson was aware the gun could not be traced to him. “IDK if it has a serial number but it wouldn’t trace to me,” he wrote to his roommate after the killing. Investigators also noted he expressed little remorse and made references to Kirk’s “hatred” as a motive.

Experts warn there is virtually no practical defense against attacks using untraceable firearms like this outside high-security environments. The case highlights ongoing concerns over vintage weapons in civilian hands, many of which were brought home by soldiers after the world wars and later circulated through gun stores, pawn shops, and gun shows.

12-Year-Old Edgar Samuelsen Reported Missing in Farmington/Prairie Grove, AR

FARMINGTON/PRAIRIE GROVE, AR — The Farmington and Prairie Grove communities are urgently searching for 12-year-old Edgar Samuelsen, who went missing Friday evening in the Meadow Sweet neighborhood. Local law enforcement, family members, and volunteers have mobilized in a coordinated effort to locate him.

Authorities have set up a command center to manage the search, which includes ground patrols and drone support. However, inclement weather has limited the effectiveness of aerial searches. Edgar is described as 4’8” tall, weighing roughly 100 pounds, and was last seen wearing a brown pullover with a “radio” design on the front and black pants.

“The safety of Edgar is our top priority,” said a Farmington Police spokesperson, urging residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings. Neighbors are encouraged to check yards, sheds, and other potential hiding spots.

The Farmington Police Department is coordinating with media outlets and distributing flyers throughout the region to raise awareness. Community volunteers have joined search parties, covering wooded areas, parks, and other local spaces. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Farmington Police Department immediately at (479) 267-3411. Authorities stress that even small tips could be critical in ensuring Edgar’s safe return.

South Carolina Trooper and Wife Arrested in Death of 4-Year-Old Oconee County Boy

Authorities investigate after tragic incident; former trooper terminated from Highway Patrol

OCONEE COUNTY, S.C. — Destiny Shay Dionne and Joshua Emanuel Latimer have been arrested in connection with the death of a 4-year-old boy in Oconee County on Friday, multiple sources confirmed.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announced that Latimer, a Lance Corporal with the Highway Patrol since 2017, was terminated on September 19 following his arrest. “Any questions regarding the criminal investigation should be directed to SLED,” the department said.

According to Oconee County Coroner Karl Addis, emergency services were called to a home on Forest Acres Circle near Walhalla early Friday morning after the child was found in cardiac arrest around 6:20 a.m. Due to the circumstances, SLED’s Special Victims Unit and the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office joined the investigation.

Jail records indicate both Dionne and Latimer face charges of unlawful neglect of a child. Coroner Addis confirmed that an autopsy on the boy is scheduled for Monday. Authorities have stated that charges may be upgraded depending on the findings.

The community is reeling from the tragic incident, and law enforcement emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing. Officials are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Additional updates will be reported as they are confirmed.

25-Year-Old Man Found Shot to Death Behind Triangle Market in Baton Rouge

Police investigating deadly altercation; no arrests yet

BATON ROUGE, La. — Authorities are investigating after a 25-year-old man was found shot to death Friday behind Triangle Market.

The victim has been identified as James Lee Critney, who police say was discovered just before noon after what appears to have been a violent altercation that ended in gunfire. Baton Rouge Police Department confirmed Critney died at the scene despite efforts by first responders.

Detectives with the Homicide Division are now reviewing evidence and interviewing potential witnesses in an effort to determine how the confrontation began and who may have been involved. No arrests have been made at this time.

The shocking discovery has left nearby residents and business owners deeply unsettled. Many described the incident as a grim reminder of ongoing violence in the area.

In a statement, police urged anyone with information to come forward, stressing that community cooperation is vital in solving cases like this.

Friends, family, and community members are mourning Critney’s untimely death, sharing condolences and calling for justice in his memory.

The investigation remains active, and authorities say updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Man Found Dead at Hillsborough Nature Preserve, Authorities Investigating

36-year-old Durham man identified as victim

HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. — Authorities are investigating after a man was found dead early Friday morning at a popular nature preserve in Orange County.

The victim has been identified as Calvin Demond Smith-Taylor, 36, of Durham, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies said his body was discovered shortly before 7:30 a.m. by someone visiting the area, who immediately contacted law enforcement.

Emergency responders arrived at the preserve and confirmed Smith-Taylor’s death at the scene. Officials have not released details regarding the circumstances surrounding his death, and investigators are working to determine what led to the tragedy.

At this time, authorities have not indicated whether foul play is suspected. An autopsy is expected to provide further insight, though officials caution that it may take time before answers are available.

News of the discovery has unsettled many in the community who frequent the preserve for recreation and outdoor activities. While the area has since reopened, the Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in the vicinity as a precaution and to reassure the public.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have been in the preserve Thursday night or early Friday morning, and who might have seen or heard anything unusual, to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

As the investigation continues, friends and family of Smith-Taylor are left grieving the sudden loss of a life gone too soon.

Leake Academy Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of Beloved Student Ava Byars

Community honors her spirit, compassion, and lasting impact

CARTHAGE, Mississippi — September 2025 — The Leake Academy community is reeling after the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Ava Byars, a cherished student whose unexpected passing has left an emptiness in the hearts of classmates, teachers, and friends.

Ava was more than a student—she was a shining presence, known for her kindness, joy, and ability to uplift everyone she encountered. Whether in the classroom, on campus, or among friends, her vibrant personality and compassionate nature touched countless lives. Teachers remember her dedication and determination, while peers recall her warmth, laughter, and encouragement during difficult times.

News of her passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across the school and wider community. Students, staff, and families are gathering to share memories, honor her life, and support one another through the difficult days ahead.

Though Ava’s time was far too short, her legacy will continue to live on in the love, inspiration, and joy she spread so generously. Leake Academy stands united in mourning, while also celebrating the beautiful life of a young woman who made an unforgettable impact.

UK Trucker Jailed 10 Years for Fatal Crash While Distracted by Porn on Phone

Judge slams driver’s “mind-blowingly stupid” actions that killed devoted father of two

A veteran truck driver has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after causing a fatal crash while distracted by his phone, which was displaying pornographic images.

Neil Platt, 43, from Bootle, was driving from Scotland to Liverpool in May 2024 when he slammed into traffic on the M58 in Lancashire. His truck struck a Hyundai Kona driven by 46-year-old father-of-two Danny Aitchison, whose vehicle was pushed into a tanker and erupted in flames. Aitchison, who was on the phone with his partner at the time, died instantly.

Investigators revealed Platt had repeatedly used WhatsApp, X, YouTube, and TikTok throughout his three-hour journey. Seconds before the crash, naked photos appeared on his social media feed. Although Platt insisted he only checked his phone for journey progress, Judge Ian Unsworth KC said he had chosen to prioritize his phone over road safety, calling his actions “arrogant” and “mind-blowingly stupid.”

“You were not paying attention to what was ahead, but to your phone,” the judge told him. “You were a multi-ton accident waiting to happen.”

In court, Aitchison’s grieving partner, Kerry, recalled being on the phone with him moments before the line went dead. “He was just coming home to me and the kids. Their hero has gone,” she said. Their daughter, Ella, remembered her father as “a good man driven by family and a pure love of life.”

Platt, described by his attorney as remorseful and self-hating, will serve two-thirds of his sentence and face a seven-year driving ban after release.

Lee County EMS Mourns Loss of EMT Jessica Sanchez After Off-Duty Accident

LEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Lee County Emergency Medical Services community is grieving the sudden loss of EMT Jessica Sanchez, who passed away this afternoon following an off-duty accident last weekend.

Sanchez joined Lee County EMS in 2023 and quickly became a beloved member of the department. Known for her bright smile and unwavering positivity, she was admired not only for her professionalism but also for her ability to uplift those around her. Colleagues recall countless moments where her kindness, humor, and compassion transformed long shifts into meaningful experiences, leaving an unforgettable impact on her team and the community she served.

“She made every day lighter, every shift better, and every life she touched fuller,” the department shared in a statement. Stories from coworkers over the past few days highlight the remarkable way Sanchez connected with others — whether responding to emergencies, mentoring fellow EMTs, or simply offering encouragement during difficult times.

Beyond her role as a first responder, Sanchez was cherished as a friend and family member. Her loss leaves a profound void not only in the EMS community but also in the many lives she touched across Lee County.

“We stand with her family in mourning her loss and in sharing the joy she brought to so many who knew her,” the department’s statement added.

Funeral arrangements are pending, and Lee County EMS has pledged ongoing support to her family and colleagues during this time of grief.

Bellevue Mourns the Passing of Thomas Peter Cloos, 76

BELLEVUE, Iowa — The Bellevue community is remembering the life of Thomas Peter Cloos, 76, who passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Grand Meadows in Asbury, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Dementia.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 23, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will take place from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 22, at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, with additional visitation Tuesday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Born December 23, 1948, to James and Kathleen (Gonner) Cloos, Tom was the eldest child and first grandchild in his family. He attended Sts. Peter & Paul grade school and graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1966. In 1969, he met Lois Reuter, the love of his life, and the two married in 1970, beginning a 55-year journey together.

Tom worked nearly four decades as Safety Director for Art Pape Transfer before continuing his service at Marquette Catholic Schools. A man of faith and community, he served on numerous councils, volunteered extensively, and was lovingly nicknamed the “Energizer Bunny” for his tireless spirit.

He is survived by his wife Lois, four daughters, 11 grandchildren, six siblings, and extended family.

The family expresses gratitude to Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of Dubuque, or Marquette Catholic Schools.