Author: Admin

 

With solemn hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Jordan Anthony Cozad, who left this world far too soon on May 13, 2025, at the young age of 28. Born and raised in Muscatine, Iowa, Jordan was a beacon of light to all who had the privilege of knowing them — a soul whose warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit will forever echo in the lives they touched.

Jordan was not only a beloved member of the Cozad family but a loyal friend, a compassionate neighbor, and a person who radiated empathy, creativity, and strength. Known for their infectious laugh and gentle heart, Jordan had a rare ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. Whether through a simple act of kindness or an encouraging word, they brought comfort and connection to those around them.

A lifelong resident of Muscatine, Jordan embraced the close-knit community with open arms. They cherished time spent along the Mississippi River, found joy in the changing Iowa seasons, and cultivated deep friendships rooted in mutual respect and love. Jordan had an adventurous spirit and a curious mind, always eager to explore new ideas, support others, and make the world a better place in their own unique way.

Jordan is survived by their loving parents, who were not only their caretakers but their confidants and closest supporters. Their extended family, including aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents, mourn the loss of a bright star gone too soon. Jordan’s memory will also be deeply treasured by countless friends, colleagues, and neighbors — all of whom carry a piece of their legacy in their hearts.

As we grapple with the pain of this unimaginable loss, we ask for your continued thoughts, prayers, and compassion for the Cozad family. May we honor Jordan’s life by living with more love, more empathy, and more intention — just as they did every single day.

A celebration of life service will be announced in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jordan’s name to a mental health or community outreach organization of your choice — causes that Jordan cared deeply about.

May Jordan Anthony Cozad rest in eternal peace. Their light will never dim, and their memory will never fade.

 

Deltona, FL – A significant development has emerged in the investigation of Wednesday’s violent incident in Deltona, where a teen was stabbed during a fight. Detectives with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office have now developed probable cause to charge 13-year-old Haiden Beauvais with principal to aggravated battery, marking a critical turning point in the ongoing case.

According to investigators, substantial evidence has come to light indicating that Haiden did not merely witness or participate in the altercation but was, in fact, the orchestrator of the attack. Through detailed interviews, surveillance footage, and the analysis of social media and communication records, detectives have established that Haiden planned and coordinated the confrontation that ultimately led to the stabbing.

Haiden was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held while the judicial process proceeds. Given the seriousness of the offense and the deliberate nature of the planning involved, the charge of “principal to aggravated battery” reflects the role of a key instigator—someone who may not have wielded the weapon but who encouraged, arranged, or set the attack in motion.

What Does “Principal to Aggravated Battery” Mean?

Under Florida law, a person can be charged as a “principal” to a crime if they aid, abet, or otherwise encourage or direct the commission of a criminal act. In this case, aggravated battery—a felony involving serious bodily harm or the use of a deadly weapon—is the primary offense. By charging Haiden as a principal, authorities are holding him accountable for initiating and facilitating the violence, even if he did not physically commit the stabbing himself.

The Incident

The stabbing occurred during what was initially believed to be a spontaneous fight among teenagers in Deltona on Wednesday. Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of an altercation escalated into a violent confrontation involving a weapon. The victim, whose identity has not been released due to age, sustained injuries consistent with a stabbing and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Their condition has not been publicly updated, though sources say they are expected to recover.

At the time of the incident, authorities stated the fight appeared to be between multiple juveniles, and the motive was under investigation. This week’s developments, however, suggest premeditation and deliberate targeting were involved.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives are continuing to conduct interviews, gather forensic evidence, and evaluate digital communications that may reveal more about the planning and motives behind the attack. Additional arrests or charges are possible as the inquiry unfolds.

Authorities are urging anyone with further information related to the fight, the individuals involved, or the events leading up to the stabbing to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers or directly to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.

Community Reaction

The case has shocked the local community, particularly due to the young ages of those involved. Many parents and community leaders are expressing deep concern over the apparent increase in organized violence among youths. Schools in the area have issued statements reaffirming their commitment to student safety and are working with law enforcement to address any potential ongoing threats.

Counseling services have also been made available to students and families affected by the incident, as the emotional and psychological impact continues to reverberate throughout Deltona.

Next Steps

As the legal process begins, prosecutors will determine whether to pursue charges through the juvenile justice system or petition the court for Haiden Beauvais to be tried as an adult—an option sometimes considered in violent felony cases, even involving minors.

Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

---

Anyone with tips or information is asked to contact the Volusia Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477).

 

TULARE, Calif. — A heated argument over property escalated into a violent stabbing in Tulare on Thursday evening, leaving one man hospitalized and another in custody. According to Tulare Police Department officials, officers responded to reports of a disturbance in the 500 block of East San Joaquin Avenue at approximately 6:45 p.m.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officers discovered a 64-year-old man suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim, whose name has not been released at this time, was treated at the scene by emergency medical personnel and transported to a local hospital. Authorities have confirmed that he remains in stable condition and is expected to recover.

Police quickly identified 47-year-old Pedro Gonzalez Becerra as the suspect in the attack. According to investigators, the altercation began as a verbal dispute between Becerra and the victim, reportedly stemming from a disagreement over property. The situation escalated rapidly, resulting in Becerra allegedly producing a knife and stabbing the older man multiple times.

Officers detained Becerra at the scene without incident. He was arrested and booked into the Tulare County Adult Pre-Trial Facility on multiple felony charges, including assault with a deadly weapon and attempted homicide.

Detectives continue to investigate the incident and are working to gather further details regarding the relationship between the two men and the events that led up to the violent confrontation. Authorities have not released information on the specific nature of the property dispute or whether either party resided at or owned the property where the altercation took place.

In a statement released Friday morning, the Tulare Police Department urged residents to resolve conflicts peacefully and to report escalating disputes before they turn violent. “We encourage anyone involved in personal disputes or ongoing disagreements to seek mediation or contact authorities before situations become dangerous,” the department said.

Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to contact the Tulare Police Department at (559) 684-4290.

As the victim recovers and the investigation continues, the Tulare community is reminded of the often-unpredictable consequences of interpersonal conflicts and the importance of de-escalation and early intervention.

 

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with capital murder in connection with the February shooting death of Ronald Martez Bennett Jr., an 18-year-old student at Huffman High School in Birmingham, Alabama. Authorities announced the charge on Thursday, bringing a significant development in a case that has shaken the local community and devastated the victim’s family and friends.

The fatal shooting occurred shortly after midnight on February 1, in the 600 block of Eighth Terrace West. According to Birmingham police, the incident unfolded around 12:21 a.m., when more than two dozen gunshots were fired in what detectives believe to have been a targeted attack. Ronald Bennett Jr., who was behind the wheel of a vehicle at the time, was struck by the hail of bullets. Police have not yet disclosed whether Bennett was the intended target, but evidence suggests the shooting was premeditated and deliberate.

After Bennett was shot, a passenger inside the car attempted to gain control of the vehicle but lost control, crashing into shrubbery and the front porch of a nearby home. The tragic aftermath left Bennett lying outside the vehicle. First responders pronounced him dead at the scene. In the moments that followed, numerous friends and family members gathered at the location, many visibly overcome with grief as a tow truck removed the damaged car from the yard.

Police have not released the name of the 17-year-old suspect due to his age. However, officials confirmed that he is being held at the Ross G. Bell Juvenile Detention Center on an unrelated charge. Despite his juvenile status, the nature of the crime—capital murder—means he is facing an exceptionally serious legal path forward. He will not be moved to the Jefferson County Jail at this time, but if tried as an adult, he could potentially face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Sgt. LaQuitta Wade of the Birmingham Police Department stated that homicide detectives presented their case to the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office on Wednesday. After reviewing the evidence, prosecutors issued a warrant for the suspect’s arrest on capital murder charges. Under Alabama law, the charge qualifies as capital because the homicide occurred while the victim was inside a vehicle, even though the motive behind the attack has not been made public.

The Birmingham Police Department has remained tight-lipped about many aspects of the case, including the events that led up to the shooting and whether others may have been involved. Investigators are continuing to follow leads and encourage anyone with further information to come forward.

The arrest and capital murder charge mark a pivotal point in a case that has left an indelible mark on the Huffman High School community and beyond. Ronald Bennett Jr., remembered by friends and family as a bright young man with a promising future, now becomes another tragic statistic in the ongoing battle against youth violence in Birmingham.

As the legal proceedings move forward, many in the city are calling for greater support for at-risk youth and stronger community engagement to prevent similar tragedies. Meanwhile, the Bennett family prepares to face the long road of grief and justice, hoping that the legal system will provide some measure of accountability for their profound loss.

 

On Tuesday, May 14, 2025, at approximately 6:44 p.m., the Culver City Police Department (CCPD) responded to a harrowing 9-1-1 call reporting a woman screaming for help and bleeding from the head in a quiet residential neighborhood near the 4100 block of Madison Avenue. The call set into motion a rapid and coordinated response from law enforcement that led to the swift apprehension of a violent suspect and averted further danger to the community.

Within minutes of the distress call, multiple CCPD officers arrived on scene. There, they found an adult female victim seated on the ground, visibly injured and holding the back of her head. The victim was in clear distress and suffering from what appeared to be serious head trauma. Culver City Fire Department paramedics were quickly dispatched to the location and provided immediate medical care before transporting the victim to a local hospital. Fortunately, her injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening.

According to the victim’s account, she had been walking in the neighborhood when she became aware that an unknown male was following her. The suspect, described as a Hispanic male in his 30s, launched a sudden and unprovoked attack. He reportedly approached her from behind, grabbed her by the head, forcefully pulled her to the ground, and began punching her multiple times in the head.

Officers wasted no time in canvassing the surrounding area. Their rapid response and clear coordination paid off: within a short period, officers located a man matching the suspect’s description near the 4100 block of La Salle Avenue—just blocks away from the attack. The individual was detained without incident. Following positive identification by the victim, the suspect was arrested and taken into custody on charges of Assault Likely to Produce Great Bodily Injury, a serious felony offense under California Penal Code 245(a)(4).

The Culver City Police Department credited the outcome to the prompt and professional actions of its officers, as well as the vigilance and courage of community members who did not hesitate to report the crime. “This incident underscores the importance of community partnership in ensuring public safety,” the department stated. “Thanks to the swift actions of our officers and the bravery of those who called for help, a dangerous individual was quickly apprehended, and further harm was prevented.”

The CCPD emphasized its ongoing commitment to maintaining the safety of all Culver City residents and expressed gratitude to all those involved in the incident response.

 

BAY CITY, MICH. — Swift Police Action Ensures Safety After Firearm Sighting Near Local School

In a swift and coordinated response to a potentially dangerous situation near a local school, the Bay City Department of Public Safety (BCDPS) successfully apprehended three individuals following a 911 report of a firearm sighting early Thursday morning. The incident, which unfolded near a school zone shortly before classes began, triggered immediate action from local law enforcement, who prioritized the safety of students, staff, and nearby residents.

According to officials, the 911 call was received at approximately 7:45 a.m., with the caller reporting suspicious activity involving a possible firearm near the intersection of 21st Street and Fremont Avenue, just a few blocks from a local elementary school. The report indicated that three individuals, described as young males, were seen behaving erratically and possibly brandishing a weapon.

Upon receiving the call, officers from the BCDPS were dispatched to the scene within minutes. Their rapid deployment was part of a coordinated safety protocol designed for incidents involving potential threats near schools. Additional patrol units were strategically positioned around the school and surrounding neighborhoods to monitor and secure the area.

Within 20 minutes of the initial report, authorities located the individuals matching the descriptions provided. Officers executed a high-alert stop, taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety. The suspects were detained without incident and transported to the Bay City Public Safety Department for questioning.

During the investigation, a firearm was recovered near the location of the arrest. While authorities have not yet confirmed whether the weapon was loaded or operational, its presence near a school zone has raised serious concerns. Preliminary findings suggest that at least one of the suspects may have had prior interactions with law enforcement, although no formal charges have yet been announced as of Thursday afternoon.

Bay City Public Schools were briefly placed under a soft lockdown as a precautionary measure during the police response. School officials communicated with parents via emergency alerts and social media, reassuring them that students were safe and that the situation was being handled by law enforcement. The lockdown was lifted around 9:15 a.m., and classes resumed shortly thereafter with additional security present on site.

“We take any report of a firearm near our schools extremely seriously,” said Bay City Public Safety Director Robert Battinkoff in a press conference Thursday. “Thanks to the prompt action of our officers and the cooperation of the community, we were able to resolve this incident quickly and without harm. We are continuing our investigation and will share more information as it becomes available.”

Parents in the area expressed both concern and relief over the incident. “It’s scary to think what could’ve happened,” said local parent Jessica Martinez, who has two children attending the nearby school. “But I’m grateful for the fast response. It really shows how important it is to stay vigilant and speak up if you see something suspicious.”

The identities of the three individuals taken into custody have not been released, pending further investigation and potential charges. Authorities are working closely with the Bay County Prosecutor’s Office to determine the appropriate legal actions.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness, quick action by law enforcement, and the critical role of emergency preparedness in safeguarding schools and neighborhoods. The Bay City Department of Public Safety continues to urge residents to report any suspicious behavior and to remain proactive in maintaining a safe environment for all.

 

Tragedy struck early Monday morning in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood when a 20-year-old woman was gunned down following what police say was a heated argument that spiraled into deadly violence.

The shooting occurred around 1:13 a.m. in the 7900 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue. According to Chicago police, the young woman had been involved in a verbal altercation with a group of women when a man approached the scene, escalated the situation, and pulled out a firearm. Without warning, he shot the woman twice in the face at close range, then fled the area on foot.

A Shocking Act of Violence

Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic and horrifying moment, with people scattering in fear as gunshots rang out in the quiet early morning hours. “It was fast and terrifying,” said one local resident. “One minute there was shouting, and the next, she was on the ground. It happened so fast.”

Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes and rushed the victim to the University of Chicago Medical Center. Despite life-saving efforts, she succumbed to her injuries a short time later. Her name has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of her family.

Shooter Still at Large

As of Thursday morning, no arrests have been made in the case, and the shooter remains at large. Police say they are actively investigating the incident and are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses in an effort to identify and locate the suspect.

The motive behind the confrontation remains unclear, but investigators believe the suspect may have been acquainted with individuals involved in the initial argument. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could help bring justice to the victim and her family.

Community in Mourning

The Chatham community is reeling from the violence, as residents grapple with yet another senseless act of gun violence in a city that has already seen too many. The victim, only 20 years old, was described by those who knew her as vibrant, full of life, and with her future ahead of her.

“This didn’t have to happen,” said community activist Brandon Lewis, who has been working with youth in the area to prevent violence. “A young woman’s life was ended before it even truly began. Our hearts go out to her family, and we demand justice.”

Ongoing Crisis of Gun Violence

Chicago continues to struggle with a crisis of gun violence that has taken a particularly heavy toll on young people and communities of color. According to recent data from the Chicago Police Department, there have been more than 180 homicides and over 800 shootings in the city so far this year.

While city officials and law enforcement have implemented various programs to curb violence — including community intervention efforts and increased patrols in high-crime areas — the problem remains deeply rooted and complex.

Call for Action

City leaders and residents alike are calling for greater efforts to address the root causes of violence, including poverty, lack of mental health resources, and easy access to illegal firearms. “We can’t keep losing young lives like this,” said Alderman Michelle Harris, who represents parts of the South Side. “We need a community-wide response — not just from police, but from schools, churches, and families.”

Investigation Continues

Chicago police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to call the Area Two detectives at (312) 747-8271 or submit anonymous tips through the CPD tip line or CrimeStoppers.

As the investigation continues and a family mourns a devastating loss, the city is once again left asking: When will the violence end — and what more can be done to stop it?

Further updates will be provided as the case develops.

An outdoor adventure turned tragic over the weekend when a 33-year-old man died after hiking in Arizona’s rugged and arid mountains amid dangerously high temperatures. Authorities say the man was part of a group of five hikers who encountered life-threatening heat conditions that led to dehydration, exhaustion, and ultimately, a desperate rescue effort.

Extreme Heat Proves Deadly

The group set out on a hiking trail in the Superstition Mountains, located just east of Phoenix, where daytime temperatures soared well above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite weather warnings and extreme heat advisories issued by the National Weather Service, the hikers pressed on — a decision that would have fatal consequences.

According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews were called around midday Saturday after one of the hikers managed to call 911, reporting that several members of the group were suffering from heat-related symptoms and were unable to continue.

By the time rescuers arrived via helicopter, one of the hikers, a 33-year-old man whose identity has not yet been publicly released, had already succumbed to the extreme conditions. The remaining four hikers were located and airlifted to safety in varying states of distress — all suffering from symptoms consistent with heat exhaustion and dehydration.

An Escalating Crisis in the Desert

Search and rescue officials described the operation as “extremely dangerous,” citing not only the scorching heat but also the rough terrain, which made it difficult for ground teams to reach the hikers in time. Helicopters from the Arizona Department of Public Safety were used to extract the survivors, two of whom had collapsed from heat exhaustion and required immediate medical attention.

“This was an avoidable tragedy,” said Sheriff Mark Lamb of Pinal County in a statement. “The desert in the summer is no place to hike, especially during the peak of the day. Even seasoned hikers can quickly become overwhelmed.”

Officials noted that the hikers were not adequately prepared for the conditions. While they had water with them, it wasn’t nearly enough to sustain them through hours of exertion in triple-digit heat.

Medical Response and Aftermath

The four surviving hikers were taken to nearby hospitals, where they were treated for heat-related illnesses. All are expected to recover, though two of them reportedly spent time in the intensive care unit due to the severity of their dehydration and heat stroke symptoms.

Authorities are now using this incident to emphasize the dangers of hiking in Arizona’s desert during the summer months. Park rangers and local officials have ramped up public education campaigns in recent years, yet tragedies like this continue to occur.

A Pattern of Preventable Tragedies

Arizona, particularly the Phoenix metro area, sees a significant number of heat-related emergencies every summer. According to data from the Arizona Department of Health Services, more than 400 people died from heat-associated causes in 2023 alone, with hiking being a leading contributor to those numbers.

Local rescue teams say they respond to dozens of calls every week during the hot season. “The message isn’t getting through,” said one experienced rescuer. “People underestimate the desert and overestimate their own limits.”

Remembering the Victim

The 33-year-old man who died has not been formally identified pending notification of his family. Friends and loved ones are beginning to share tributes on social media, describing him as adventurous, kind, and passionate about the outdoors. Sadly, it was that same passion that led him into one of the most unforgiving environments at one of the worst possible times.

A Sobering Reminder

This incident is a stark reminder of how quickly outdoor excursions can turn deadly, especially in extreme weather. Authorities are urging hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to:

• Avoid hiking during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Always carry and drink plenty of water (at least a gallon per person, per day)
• Wear light-colored, breathable clothing
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
• Turn back if conditions become unsafe or if anyone in the group feels unwell

As summer approaches and temperatures climb, officials hope this tragedy will prompt others to think twice before venturing into the desert heat. The loss of a life — and the near loss of four others — is a heavy price to pay for underestimating the power of nature.

Further details about the incident, including the full identity of the deceased and updates on the condition of the survivors, are expected in the coming days.

 

On April 24, tragedy struck on a stretch of Interstate 12 that will forever be remembered by one grieving family. In a moment that changed everything, a devastating car crash claimed the life of a precious little boy named Preston—a toddler whose radiant smile had the uncanny ability to light up every room he entered. With boundless energy and a laughter that echoed joy, Preston was a vibrant soul whose time on this earth, though painfully short, left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Preston was more than just a child; he was the heart of his home. A curious explorer, a tiny comedian, a gentle hug-giver, and a spark of sunshine even on the stormiest days. He had that rare kind of innocence that reminded grown-ups of the beauty in small moments—whether he was chasing butterflies in the yard, giggling at bedtime stories, or simply curling up in his favorite spot with his favorite toy.

The news of Preston’s passing has sent waves of sorrow through his family, friends, and community. No parent ever imagines planning a funeral for their child. No sibling should have to grasp the absence of their best friend, playmate, and partner in mischief. This tragedy has not only broken hearts but has also shaken many to the core—a painful testament to how fragile and fleeting life can be.

While the details of the crash are still being examined, what has become urgently clear is the vital importance of car seat safety. Accidents happen in an instant, and in those moments, the correct use of car seats and restraints can mean the difference between life and death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that properly used child safety seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. Yet far too often, car seats are installed incorrectly, misused, or not used at all.

In Preston’s honor, his family now hopes to raise awareness about the life-saving power of car seat safety. They want his story to be more than a memory—they want it to be a movement. They want every parent, caregiver, and loved one to double-check that car seat. To ensure it’s rear-facing for as long as possible. To visit certified car seat technicians. To never rush a child out of the seat that’s designed to protect them, even if it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.

Preston’s life, though short, can still make a difference in the lives of countless other children. His laughter may no longer fill his family’s home, but it can echo forward in the lives saved by the awareness raised in his name. The love his family carries for him will never fade. It will be carried in each breath, each memory, and each effort to protect another child from a similar fate.

This isn’t just a story of heartbreak—it’s a call to action. Because no family should have to endure what Preston’s is going through. Because one lost life is one too many. And because every child deserves the chance to grow up, laugh, and light up the world—just like Preston did.

Rest in peace, sweet Preston. You will never be forgotten.