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Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 34-Year-Old Man at Crown Inn in Orangeburg County

Authorities in Orangeburg County are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on the evening of Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Crown Inn located on Bamberg Highway. The victim has been identified as 34-year-old Samson Green of Orangeburg.​

Deputies responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 8:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Mr. Green deceased at the scene, having suffered fatal gunshot wounds. ​

Sheriff Leroy Ravenell has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, stating, “If one has any information on this, we are asking they call us. We want to get anyone involved behind bars.

The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the case. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Orangeburg County Communications Center at 803-534-3550.​

As the community mourns the loss of Mr. Green, authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

In Loving Memory of Ada Kepley
Beloved Daughter, Sister, Friend, and Student at Archie Williams High School
2009 – 2025

WOODACRE, Calif. — It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we remember the life of Ada Kepley, a bright, compassionate, and unforgettable young soul whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating car accident near Woodacre, in West Marin. Ada, a sophomore at Archie Williams High School, was just 15 years old. Her untimely passing, alongside fellow students and friends, has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Ada was known among her peers, teachers, and family for her quick wit, boundless creativity, and genuinely kind heart. She had a spark that lit up every room she entered—whether she was drawing in her sketchbook, making her friends laugh with clever observations, or simply listening with care and sincerity. Her warmth was magnetic, her imagination limitless, and her empathy rare beyond her years.

A gifted artist and passionate learner, Ada often channeled her thoughts into stories and drawings that spoke to her unique way of seeing the world. She was known to stand up for others, to offer encouragement in quiet moments, and to make people feel seen and valued. Ada didn’t just exist in her world—she elevated it, shaping her surroundings with light, laughter, and love.

To her parents, Linda and Kirk, and her beloved older brother Dylan, Ada was a cherished daughter and sister whose presence made their home a haven of joy and deep connection. Their loss is unimaginable, and as a community, we extend our deepest condolences, our compassion, and our unwavering support during this heartbreaking time.

Ada’s passing comes as part of a tragic crash that claimed the lives of six teenage girls, all students and dear friends, whose futures held so much promise. The crash has shaken the entire Marin County community, but even in the midst of unimaginable grief, there has been an outpouring of love and remembrance. Flowers, photos, and heartfelt notes line the roadside memorial, each one a testament to the impact Ada and her friends had on so many lives.

At Archie Williams High School, Ada’s memory will live on through every hallway she walked, every classroom she filled with her energy, and every heart she touched. Counselors, staff, and classmates have come together to grieve, remember, and celebrate the lives lost far too soon. Memorial events and tributes are being planned to honor Ada and her friends in the coming days.

Though Ada’s time here was far too brief, the love she gave, the art she created, and the friendships she nurtured will remain eternal in the memories of all who knew her. She leaves behind not just sorrow, but also inspiration—a reminder to live with kindness, to speak with heart, and to cherish every moment.

As we mourn the loss of Ada Kepley, let us also honor her by embracing the qualities she embodied so effortlessly: compassion, creativity, curiosity, and courage. Let us lift her family with our love, and hold tight to the beautiful legacy Ada leaves behind.

Rest in peace, Ada.

Remembering Noreen Young: A Creative Pioneer Who Brought Puppets—and Magic—to Canadian Childhoods

Canada is in mourning following the loss of one of its most treasured artistic minds, Noreen Young, the legendary puppeteer, producer, and cultural icon who passed away recently. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come. Noreen was more than an entertainer—she was a visionary, a trailblazer, and a beloved figure in Canadian homes for decades.

For many Canadians, Noreen Young’s work wasn’t just entertainment—it was a formative part of childhood. With a singular ability to bring felt, fabric, and string to life, she created characters who felt like friends, and worlds that sparked imagination and joy. Her artistry resonated across generations, shaping a uniquely Canadian voice in children’s programming.

Perhaps best known for her work on “Under the Umbrella Tree”, Noreen brought characters like Iggy, Gloria, and Jacob into living rooms across the nation. These weren’t just puppets—they were soulful, expressive personalities infused with humor, heart, and a sense of wonder. Through them, she taught lessons on friendship, empathy, curiosity, and kindness.

Noreen’s creativity extended far beyond a single show. Throughout her remarkable career, she pioneered puppet-based storytelling, blending education and entertainment with originality that was ahead of its time. She worked not only as a performer, but also as a producer, director, and mentor, nurturing the next generation of puppeteers and artists.

Her impact on Canadian culture cannot be overstated. As one of the founding figures in children’s television in Canada, Noreen helped establish a foundation upon which countless others have built. Her contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada, a testament to the profound reach of her work and the deep admiration she earned.

But beyond accolades and airwaves, Noreen Young was cherished for her authentic warmth, wit, and endless imagination. She possessed the rare gift of seeing the world through the eyes of a child—and then reflecting that magic back to audiences young and old. Whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in community workshops, she poured her heart into every creation, and those creations returned the favor by living forever in ours.

As news of her passing spreads, tributes have been pouring in from colleagues, fans, and generations of Canadians who grew up watching her work. Many speak of her as a “Canadian Jim Henson,” a true artisan who gave voice and soul to puppets that felt real, lovable, and timeless.

In her hometown of Almonte, Ontario—where she fostered a vibrant puppetry arts scene and founded the Noreen Young Arts Centre—residents remember her not only as a national figure, but as a generous neighbor, mentor, and community builder. Her work in local schools and festivals brought creativity to life right on the doorstep of those she served.

Noreen Young’s passing is an immeasurable loss, but her spirit lives on in every giggle, gasp, and “remember when” sparked by her characters and creations. She showed us the magic in a puppet’s blink, the joy in a child’s laugh, and the beauty of believing in stories made with string and soul.

In Loving Memory of Josy, Ada Kepley, and the Archie Williams High School Students Lost in the West Marin Tragedy
“Sometimes there are no words, only tears and the quiet ache of hearts trying to understand.”

WOODACRE, Calif. — A wave of heartbreaking grief has enveloped Marin County following a devastating car accident in West Marin that claimed the lives of six teenage girls, including beloved Archie Williams High School students Josy and Ada Kepley. The crash occurred along the winding, tree-lined stretch of San Geronimo Valley Drive, near Woodacre, leaving behind shattered dreams, unanswered questions, and a community struggling to cope with the weight of loss too great to measure.

As news of the tragedy spread, so did the sorrow. Over the weekend, the crash site became a makeshift memorial, where classmates, teachers, family members, and neighbors gathered to lay flowers, candles, photographs, and handwritten notes, paying tribute to the vibrant young lives so suddenly and tragically taken. Amid the silence and tears, stories were shared—of laughter, friendship, promise, and the ordinary, beautiful moments that made Josy and Ada unforgettable.

Josy and Ada Kepley were more than just names. They were bright lights in the halls of Archie Williams High School, known for their kindness, creativity, and their bond as sisters and friends. Whether in class, on the field, in music, or simply walking through campus with warm smiles, the Kepley sisters left an indelible impression on everyone they met. Their friendship was effortless. Their presence, comforting. Their futures — filled with potential and hope — were just beginning to unfold.

To their classmates, they were peers and confidants. To teachers, they were the kind of students who made the day brighter. To family and friends, they were cherished beyond measure — daughters, sisters, granddaughters, and companions whose love and laughter will forever echo in the hearts they leave behind.

The crash has not only robbed these girls of their future, but has also left a deep wound across the Archie Williams school community, where vigils are being planned, counseling services offered, and students are leaning on each other in shared grief. School officials and counselors have expressed their deep condolences and unwavering support for the affected families, encouraging students to speak, to mourn, and to remember.

What happened along that rural road has forever altered the fabric of this community. Six young lives gone too soon — a reminder of how fragile life is, and how quickly it can change. But amid the devastation, the community has also shown strength: coming together in candlelight vigils, in moments of silence, in shared embraces — honoring not just the loss, but the lives, spirits, and dreams of those who are now gone.

As we remember Josy and Ada Kepley, we hold close the joy they brought into this world. We honor their kindness, their dreams, and the love they gave so freely. We mourn with the families of all six girls — their sorrow now carried by an entire community.

There are no perfect words in moments like these. But in the silence, in the tributes, and in the unity of this grieving town, there is something powerful: remembrance. And it is through remembrance that Josy, Ada, and their friends will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Josy. Rest in peace, Ada.
May your spirits soar beyond the trees that line the valley road.
And may those left behind find comfort in the love that surrounds them now.

A Home Shattered: Mourning the Loss of 11-Year-Old Ashly and a Woman Silenced in Her Own Garage
“Home should be the safest place — a sanctuary. For Ashly, it wasn’t.”

A profound sorrow has settled over a community shaken to its core after a senseless and deeply disturbing act of violence. Ashly McFarland, just 11 years old, was killed in her own home on Floyd Drive, the very place where she should have felt safest. Her life was cut short in a moment of unimaginable terror — a moment that has left loved ones reeling and a neighborhood struggling to make sense of the unthinkable.

On that day, Reuben Leonard, an 80-year-old neighbor, armed himself with a rifle, walked into the McFarland home, and opened fire. Ten people were inside the house. Children. Parents. Grandparents. Family gathered together — unaware that danger was approaching their door.

Ashly was struck. Despite desperate efforts, she did not survive.

Her family — filled with grief and shock — found a flicker of strength amid the chaos. Several relatives tackled Leonard and held him down, preventing him from harming anyone else. Their courage in the face of such horror cannot be overstated. But the pain of losing Ashly remains, deep and devastating.

Ashly was just beginning her life. A child full of curiosity, love, and energy — a light in the lives of those who knew her. Her laughter echoed through her home. Her joy was infectious. She was a daughter, a friend, a niece, a student — and now, a memory carried with tears and heartbreak by all who loved her.

And yet, the horror did not end with Ashly’s tragic death.

As authorities investigated the shooting, Leonard confessed to a second, chilling crime: the murder of his own wife. She was found in their garage, already gone — the victim of another senseless shooting. There had been no call, no warning. She was taken from this world in silence.

Reports suggest Leonard had been angry over noise, a grievance that spiraled into devastation. Just days earlier, he had been charged with disturbing the peace, a red flag that — in hindsight — offered a warning sign of the unrest brewing inside his mind.

But no grievance, no matter how severe, could ever justify the terror unleashed that day. Two lives gone. A family destroyed. A neighborhood left with unanswered questions and a sorrow that won’t soon fade.

This is more than a crime story. It’s a story of stolen innocence, of unseen suffering, and of a community now mourning two lives lost — one a child taken in a heartbeat, the other a woman whose name we may not yet know, but whose loss is equally profound.

As we process this tragedy, we remember Ashly — not for the way she died, but for the way she lived: joyfully, lovingly, and with a heart that brought warmth to her home. We mourn the unnamed woman — for her quiet strength, for the years of life she had behind her, and for the dignity she deserved.

Let us surround their families with compassion, offer strength where we can, and remind ourselves of the importance of seeing, hearing, and helping those around us who may be in distress. And let us continue to say Ashly’s name — not just in grief, but in love.

Rest peacefully, Ashly. Rest peacefully, too, to the woman whose life ended far too quietly.
You both deserved more. And you will never be forgotten.

A Community in Mourning: Remembering Ashly McFarland, 11, and the Tragedy That Shook Us All
“There is no footprint too small to leave an imprint on this world.”

In a world already burdened by noise and unrest, a quiet, unimaginable tragedy has left a family shattered and a community reeling. Ashly McFarland, just 11 years old, lost her life in a place where she should have felt safest — a home filled with family, laughter, and love.

On what should have been a normal day, the McFarland home — filled with ten loved ones gathered together — became the scene of an unthinkable act of violence. Reuben Leonard, armed with a rifle, walked from his nearby residence and forced his way into the house, opening fire in a moment of chaos and horror. In the face of unimaginable fear, family members acted with immense bravery, ultimately tackling and disarming Leonard, preventing further tragedy.

But for Ashly, it was too late. She didn’t make it.
An innocent life, full of promise and light, was taken far too soon.

Ashly was only 11, but in that short time, she had already left her mark on those around her. With a smile that could brighten a room and a heart as big as her dreams, she was a beloved daughter, grandchild, sibling, and friend. Her laughter was infectious. Her curiosity about the world was endless. She loved freely, played joyfully, and made every day feel a little bit better for those lucky enough to be around her.

The grief now felt by her family is indescribable — a deep and aching sorrow no parent, no sibling, no grandparent should ever have to endure. And yet, in their grief, they have shown courage and strength in the face of senseless violence.

The horror didn’t end there. In the aftermath, authorities learned that just days before the shooting, Leonard had been charged with disturbing the peace — a red flag that now seems like a distant warning. After the home invasion, Leonard admitted to killing his 76-year-old wife in their own residence, a second devastating revelation in a case still without answers or clear motive.

There is no clear reason, no explanation that can make sense of such loss, no comfort strong enough to mend the hearts broken in Ashly’s absence. What remains is a wave of grief, a community left searching for peace, and a family whose world has been turned inside out.

As the investigation continues and more details emerge, we stand with the grieving — not only in mourning for young Ashly, but in the resolve to protect and uplift one another in times of darkness.

To honor Ashly’s memory, let us say her name with love. Let us remember her for the joy she brought into the world, the innocence she carried, and the countless lives she touched in her short time with us. Let her life not be defined by the way it ended, but by the light she brought to this world while she was here.

We extend our deepest condolences to Ashly’s family and the many others impacted by this tragic act. May they find strength in each other, healing in time, and the support of a community that refuses to let them walk this path alone.

Rest peacefully, Ashly McFarland.
You were deeply loved. You will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Isaias Gonzalez (Chicago, Illinois)
“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller

With hearts filled with sorrow and deep respect, we share the news of the passing of Isaias Gonzalez of Chicago, Illinois, who departed this life on April 20, 2025. Though the world has lost a cherished soul, the memory of Isaias will live on — lovingly carried in the stories, laughter, and lives of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Isaias was a beloved presence in the lives of many — a person whose quiet strength, sincerity, and compassion resonated with all who crossed his path. He had a rare ability to connect with others, not just through words, but through his actions, his loyalty, and his unwavering presence. Whether through a shared smile, a helpful hand, or a moment of deep conversation, Isaias touched lives in ways that will never be forgotten.

To his family, Isaias was a pillar of support — someone who could be counted on in any situation, whose love was unconditional and constant. To his friends, he was a confidant, a listener, and a source of joy, always ready to lend a hand or share in life’s journey. To his community, he was a steady and caring figure who quietly made a difference without ever seeking the spotlight.

Though we grieve deeply in his absence, we take comfort in knowing that Isaias’s legacy is one of love, humility, and connection. His spirit lives on in every cherished memory — in family gatherings filled with laughter, in the quiet moments of reflection, and in the way he made each person feel uniquely valued and seen.

To honor Isaias’s life and allow his loved ones to gather in remembrance, a visitation will be held on April 23, 2025, followed by a burial at Mt. Auburn Cemetery on April 24. These sacred moments offer us a chance to come together — to mourn, to support one another, and to celebrate the life of someone who gave so much to so many.

In this time of grief, we extend our deepest condolences to the Gonzalez family. May you find strength in each other, peace in shared memories, and comfort in the knowledge that Isaias’s love endures.

Please keep the Gonzalez family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this difficult time. Let us honor Isaias not only in mourning but by continuing to live with the same heart and humanity he so freely gave to the world.

Rest peacefully, Isaias.
You may have left this earth, but your memory will remain forever rooted in the hearts of all who knew you.

#Chicago #InLovingMemory

In Loving Memory of Samual Ousley (1992 – 2025)
“It’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln

With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the tragic passing of Samual Ousley of Warren County, Ohio, who lost their life in an accident on April 19, 2025, at the age of 32. Taken far too soon, Samual’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved them, but their memory will continue to ride alongside us — bold, free, and unforgettable.

Samual was known by many for their adventurous soul and an unshakable passion for motorcycling — a love that brought them not only joy but a deep sense of freedom and connection to the world. Whether cruising down winding country roads or exploring unfamiliar paths, Samual embraced life with open arms and a fearless heart. To ride was not just a hobby; it was a way of being — one that reflected their courageous spirit and desire to experience life fully, on their own terms.

Beyond the road, Samual was a loyal friend, a loving family member, and a generous soul. Their laughter was infectious, their loyalty unwavering, and their energy magnetic. Samual had a way of making others feel seen and accepted — of encouraging people to live a little more boldly, to step outside the ordinary, and to chase what made them feel alive.

To those who knew them best, Samual was a source of both inspiration and comfort. They were the kind of person who would drop everything to help a friend, offer a shoulder without hesitation, and remind others to enjoy the ride — both literally and figuratively. Their absence will be deeply felt, but their essence will continue to echo in every story told, every sunset ride, and every life they touched.

As we gather to celebrate Samual’s life and honor the legacy they leave behind, let us remember the spirit of freedom that defined them — the wind at their back, the road ahead, and a heart open to the journey. In this time of sorrow, let us also lift up Samual’s family and loved ones in our thoughts and prayers, offering them strength and solace as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

Samual’s journey may have come to a sudden end, but the memories they created, the bonds they formed, and the love they gave will forever remain with us. Let us carry their story forward by living with courage, exploring with curiosity, and loving with our whole hearts — just as they did.

Ride in peace, Samual.
Your path may have shifted beyond our sight, but your spirit rides on — wild, free, and eternal.

In Loving Memory of Amanda Lynn Civiletti (1987 – 2025)
“Those we love and lose are always connected by heartstrings into infinity.” – Terri Guillemets

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt reflection that we share the passing of Amanda Lynn Civiletti of Rochester, New York, who departed this life on April 18, 2025, at the young age of 37. Amanda’s sudden departure has left an indescribable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, but her vibrant spirit, unforgettable presence, and boundless compassion continue to shine through the legacy she leaves behind.

Amanda was a beacon of warmth and joy — a person whose smile could light up the darkest rooms and whose laughter had a way of making others feel instantly at ease. Her love was both fierce and gentle, and she shared it freely with her family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path. She lived with an open heart, and her generosity of spirit touched everyone she encountered.

To Amanda’s family, she was a source of comfort, strength, and endless affection. To her friends, she was a confidant, a companion through life’s ups and downs, and a source of joy on even the hardest days. Amanda had an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen and valued, and her life was a reflection of deep kindness, resilience, and grace.

Though words can never fully capture the depth of Amanda’s impact, her legacy lives on — in the laughter shared around dinner tables, in the quiet comfort of shared memories, and in the hearts of all who carry her love with them. She leaves behind a joyful imprint: the memory of her voice, her humor, her unwavering support, and the way she inspired others to be their truest selves.

To honor Amanda’s life and to gather in remembrance, a visitation will be held on April 23, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, a time for friends and family to come together in support and reflection. A funeral Mass will follow on April 24 at 11:00 AM, held at the Parish of the Holy Family, where those who loved Amanda can come to pray, grieve, and celebrate the beauty of her life.

As we navigate this time of sorrow, let us hold Amanda’s memory close — not only in mourning, but in gratitude for the light she brought into our lives. Let us honor her by living with the same compassion and heart she showed every day, and by lifting one another up, just as Amanda so often did for those around her.

Amanda Lynn Civiletti, you were a gift to this world. Your memory is a blessing, your spirit is eternal, and your love lives on.

Rest in peace, dear Amanda. You will never be forgotten.

A Tragic Loss Behind Closed Doors: Woman Fatally Shot in Her Home, Suspect in Custody

In a small and quiet community, the unimaginable unfolded behind the walls of a home that should have been a place of safety. What began as a day like any other turned into one of grief and horror when a woman was found lifeless in her own home — the victim of a fatal gunshot wound.

Before anyone had the chance to ask what had happened, 61-year-old Ralph Letner walked to a neighbor and made a chilling admission: he had killed her. The words struck like thunder in the stillness of the neighborhood, sending shock and disbelief rippling through the close-knit area. The neighbor, stunned but swift, contacted authorities immediately.

Pulaski County deputies rushed to the scene, holding on to hope that there might still be time. But despite their rapid response and attempts to render aid, it was too late. The woman was already gone. Another life lost, another family left to face an unthinkable reality.

Letner was taken into custody without resistance, according to authorities, and is now being held in Pulaski County as the investigation unfolds. Law enforcement has not yet released the exact time or location of the incident, likely out of respect for the victim’s family and the ongoing nature of the case.

Though details are still emerging, what remains painfully clear is that a life was ended far too soon — not by accident, not by misfortune, but by violence. The woman, whose name has not been publicly disclosed, leaves behind grieving loved ones who must now begin the difficult journey of mourning and trying to make sense of a senseless act.

To those who knew her, she was likely far more than just a headline. She may have been a mother, a sister, a friend — a person with stories, laughter, and dreams. Her presence, now suddenly and violently stolen, is a devastating loss to those who loved her.

As the legal system begins its course and more facts come to light, our deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family and friends. No words can fully ease the pain, but may they find comfort in community, justice in due time, and healing in the memories they hold dear.

For the full story and future updates as they become available, please follow the continuing coverage at your local news outlet.