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High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Fatal Shootout at California In-N-Out Burger

LAGUNA HILLS, Calif. — A suspected murderer was killed in a dramatic police shootout outside an In-N-Out Burger early Saturday morning, following a high-speed chase across southern California.

Authorities say the violence began around 10 p.m. Friday, when the suspect fatally shot a woman in the parking lot of a Carlsbad apartment complex before hijacking her Kia Sorrento. Law enforcement agencies were quickly alerted, and the victim’s license plate was circulated to nearby departments.

Shortly after midnight, officers in Laguna Beach spotted the stolen vehicle. Around 12:45 a.m., Newport Beach police attempted a traffic stop, but the suspect fled, sparking a multi-agency pursuit through Orange County.

The chase came to a deadly end around 1 a.m. when the driver crashed into a business complex that houses an In-N-Out Burger in Laguna Hills. Jumping from the vehicle, the suspect immediately opened fire on police with a semiautomatic handgun.

Harrowing video obtained by KTLA showed terrified restaurant patrons diving under tables and running for cover as dozens of gunshots rang out. Officers returned fire, striking the suspect, who was treated at the scene and transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

No officers were injured in the exchange of gunfire. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity.

Investigators are now urging witnesses, especially those who captured video or photos during the incident, to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

Bel Air Community Grieves Loss of Zach Griffin, C. Milton Wright High Student

BEL AIR, Md. — The C. Milton Wright High School community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of one of its own. On September 18, 2025, a devastating car accident claimed the life of Zach Griffin, a well-loved student whose presence touched many. Friends, classmates, and teachers describe Zach as a young man filled with kindness, energy, and a contagious enthusiasm for life. He was known for his dedication to academics, his involvement in school activities, and his ability to brighten any room he entered.

In the days following the tragedy, students and staff have gathered to remember Zach, sharing stories of his warmth and generosity. A growing memorial outside the school reflects the impact he had on those around him, with flowers, notes, and candles placed in his honor. Counselors have been made available to support students as they process the loss, and a candlelight vigil is planned for later this week.

Zach Griffin’s passing has left a profound void not only at C. Milton Wright High School but also throughout the Bel Air community. Those who knew him say his legacy of compassion and positivity will continue to inspire long after his passing. As friends, family, and classmates navigate this difficult time, they hold tight to memories of Zach’s laughter, his drive, and his unwavering kindness. The community’s outpouring of support reflects just how deeply Zach’s life touched others and how much he will be missed.

Authorities Investigating Death of Dothan Man Found Unresponsive in Vehicle

DOTHAN, Ala. — A quiet Saturday morning in Dothan turned somber after authorities discovered a man unresponsive inside a vehicle at a neighborhood intersection. Houston County Coroner Robert Byrd confirmed that 41-year-old Joel Nicholson of Dothan was pronounced dead after emergency efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

According to local officials, first responders were called to the scene after a passerby noticed the vehicle sitting stationary and alerted authorities. Emergency medical personnel and law enforcement arrived quickly and attempted lifesaving measures, but Nicholson was declared deceased at the scene.

Coroner Byrd stated that the incident remains under investigation, and an autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding how long the vehicle may have been at the intersection or any potential contributing factors.

Neighbors described the scene as unsettling and expressed sympathy for Nicholson’s family. “It’s just tragic,” one resident said. “We never expect something like this to happen so close to home.”

Law enforcement officials have not indicated any signs of foul play at this time but say they are awaiting further results before making conclusions. Support services and resources have been offered to family members as they cope with the sudden loss.

Community members have begun sharing condolences on social media, calling Nicholson a devoted friend and loved one. Funeral arrangements and memorial plans are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.

Chicago Mourns Father Killed by Suspect Fleeing Smash-and-Grab Robbery

CHICAGO — Family, friends, and colleagues are mourning the death of 40-year-old Mark Arceta, a devoted father who was tragically killed while driving to work on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Police say Arceta’s vehicle was struck by a suspect fleeing the scene of a smash-and-grab robbery in downtown Chicago.

Authorities report that Arceta was taking his usual route to the hospital where he worked when the collision occurred. According to investigators, the suspect sped away from a retail theft before crashing into Arceta’s car, fatally injuring him. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Arceta was pronounced dead at the scene.

Adding to the heartbreak, Arceta’s girlfriend gave birth to their baby boy just one day after his death. Loved ones describe him as a kind, hardworking man who was excited about fatherhood and deeply committed to supporting his family. “He was an innocent man just going to work,” his girlfriend told Fox News, describing the tragedy as “unimaginable.”

Police have not yet released the suspect’s name or further details about the investigation, but they say charges are pending. The incident has renewed calls for stronger action to curb retail crime and reckless getaways that endanger bystanders.

Friends and community members are now rallying around Arceta’s family, raising funds and offering support as they navigate life without him. A memorial is being planned to honor his life, work, and dedication as both a father and a healthcare professional.

Missing in Mississippi: Authorities Seek Public Help to Locate Benny H. Cummings

ALCORN COUNTY, Miss. — The Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance from the public in locating 71-year-old Benny H. Cummings, who has been reported missing. Cummings is described as 5’6” tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds, with grey hair.

He was last seen on Friday, September 19, at his residence on 723 CR 750, situated near the Tuscumbia River Wildlife Management Area Office. Officials expressed concern for his safety, noting that he has a medical condition that may affect his judgment, potentially putting him at greater risk.

Law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with information about Cummings’ whereabouts to come forward immediately. Residents in the area are encouraged to remain vigilant, check their properties, and report any sightings or leads that could assist in locating him. Authorities emphasize that even small pieces of information could prove crucial in finding him safely.

“The safety and well-being of Mr. Cummings is our top priority,” a spokesperson for the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office said. “We urge anyone who may have seen him or knows anything about his whereabouts to contact us immediately.”

Community support is vital in cases like this, and authorities are coordinating with neighbors, local volunteers, and other agencies to ensure a comprehensive search.

Anyone with information regarding Benny H. Cummings is asked to contact the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Office at 662-286-5521. Time is critical, and authorities are working diligently to ensure his safe return.

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.