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Morland Whitely and Drake Blackburn Arrested in Johnson City Shooting That Injured Jayden Harris and Another Victim

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — A shooting early Sunday morning in downtown Johnson City has left 19-year-old Jayden Harris and another individual injured, and led to the arrest of 18-year-olds Morland Whitely and Drake Blackburn following a swift police response.

According to the Johnson City Police Department (JCPD), officers were dispatched to the Cherry Street parking lot around 3:20 a.m. on June 29 after multiple 911 calls reported shots fired in the area.

Upon arrival, officers located and detained two suspects at the scene. Morland Whitely, of Johnson City, was identified as the alleged shooter. He has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault and reckless endangerment. Drake Blackburn, of Jonesborough, was charged with accessory after the fact, indicating he may have assisted Whitely following the shooting.

What Happened

Police stated that the violence stemmed from a verbal dispute that escalated into gunfire. During the altercation, Whitely allegedly opened fire, striking Jayden Harris and a second individual, whose identity has not been released.

Jayden Harris was transported to a nearby hospital, where he is currently being treated. The second victim was treated at the scene and is expected to recover. Their conditions have not been further updated as of Sunday evening.

Investigation Still Active

The JCPD continues to investigate the shooting. Officers remained at the scene for several hours, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Authorities believe security cameras from surrounding businesses may provide key footage to piece together what occurred.

“This incident is a reminder of how quickly arguments can turn deadly when firearms are involved,” a police spokesperson said. “We are thankful for the quick response of our officers and urge anyone with information to come forward.”

How to Help

If you have information related to the actions of Morland Whitely, Drake Blackburn, or footage that may aid the investigation, you’re asked to contact the Johnson City Police Department at (423) 434-6160. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers.

As Jayden Harris continues his recovery, the community remains concerned about the increasing frequency of violence in public gathering spaces like Cherry Street — a popular destination for nightlife and entertainment.

 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — 16-Year-Old Jeremiah Carter Killed, Another Teen Critically Injured in Holly Hill Drive Shooting

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — A tragic act of violence unfolded just after midnight on Sunday in Champaign, leaving 16-year-old Jeremiah Carter dead and another teenage boy critically injured in a shooting on Holly Hill Drive. The incident has shocked the community and prompted an urgent investigation by the Champaign Police Department.

Shooting Reported at 12:01 A.M.

At 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, officers with the Champaign Police responded to reports of gunfire and injured individuals near the intersection of Holly Hill Drive and Garden Hills Drive. When officers arrived, they discovered Jeremiah Carter and another 16-year-old boy, both unconscious and suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds, lying in a front yard.

The two teens, both residents of Champaign, were found near the track across from Pine Lane.

Emergency Response and Tragic Outcome

Police officers and firefighters on the scene administered immediate medical aid before both teens were rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, Jeremiah Carter was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The second teen remains in critical condition as of Sunday morning.

Authorities have not released the identity of the surviving teen, who is still fighting for his life.

Investigation in Progress — Police Seek Public Help

The Champaign Police Department is actively investigating the incident and is asking for the public’s assistance. As of Sunday morning, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear.

Investigators are continuing to interview potential witnesses and are canvassing the area for home or business surveillance footage that might provide crucial evidence. Police are especially interested in video captured around Holly Hill Drive, Garden Hills Drive, and Pine Lane between midnight and 12:15 a.m.

“The loss of Jeremiah Carter is a heartbreaking blow to his family, his peers, and the entire community,” a police spokesperson stated. “We are committed to finding those responsible and holding them accountable. We’re asking anyone with information to come forward.”

How to Submit a Tip

Anyone with information related to the shooting of Jeremiah Carter and the critically injured teen is encouraged to contact the Champaign Police Department at 217-351-4545. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Champaign County Crime Stoppers by:

• Calling 217-373-8477 (TIPS)
• Submitting online at www.373tips.com
• Using the “P3 Tips” mobile app

Tipsters remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward if the information leads to an arrest.

Community Reaction

Sunday’s shooting marks another devastating incident in a year already marred by youth violence in Champaign. The community of Garden Hills, already weary from previous tragedies, is once again mourning the loss of a young life.

Local leaders and neighbors described Jeremiah Carter as a kind and vibrant young man with his whole future ahead of him. Vigils and calls for peace are already being planned in his memory.

As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers — and justice — in the wake of another senseless act of gun violence that has forever altered the lives of two families.

 

 

Steven Bowron Arrested After Firing at Family Members in Virginia City

STOREY COUNTY, NV — June 28, 2025 – A tense situation unfolded Saturday afternoon in Virginia City when 63-year-old Steven Bowron of Reno, Nevada, was arrested for firing multiple rounds at a vehicle occupied by two of his family members during a heated altercation.

At approximately 3:46 p.m. on June 28, 2025, deputies from the Storey County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to reports of gunfire near the intersection of B Street and Union Street. Deputies arrived on the scene within one minute, where witnesses immediately identified Steven Bowron as the suspected shooter and indicated he had been seen walking along Union Street.

By 3:49 p.m., deputies had successfully located and detained Bowron without incident. He was reportedly intoxicated at the time of the arrest.

Incident Overview

According to multiple witness accounts, Bowron had gotten into a heated argument with two family members after they took his vehicle keys in an effort to prevent him from driving while intoxicated. As the family members left the scene in their vehicle, Bowron retrieved a firearm and fired approximately six shots at them.

He then fled the scene on foot, heading eastbound on Union Street, and discarded the firearm in a nearby parking lot. Deputies later recovered the weapon and conducted an area search, locating six shell casings near the location where Bowron had fired.

The victims’ vehicle was later inspected and was found to have multiple bullet holes along the driver’s side, from the door to the rear panel. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Charges and Custody

Steven Bowron was transported to the Storey County Detention Facility, where he was booked on a number of serious felony charges. His bail was set at $175,140.00.

The charges filed against Bowron include:

• Attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon (2 counts) – NRS 200.010
• Destroying or concealing evidence – NRS 199.220
• Possessing a firearm while under the influence of alcohol – NRS 202.257
• Discharging a firearm in or upon a public thoroughfare or public place – NRS 202.280.1
• Disregard for the safety of persons or property – NRS 202.595.1
• Discharging a firearm at or into a vehicle – NRS 202.285.1b

Ongoing Investigation

The case remains under active investigation by the Storey County Sheriff’s Office. Further forensic analysis and interviews are being conducted to build a full picture of the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities praised the swift action of deputies and the cooperation of witnesses in quickly locating Steven Bowron and recovering the weapon.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by impaired individuals with access to firearms. The Storey County Sheriff’s Office urges all residents to report suspected dangerous behavior immediately and to always prioritize responsible gun ownership.

 

 

In Loving Memory of Amelia Terisa Joseph (1952 – 2025)

Melbourne, Florida – With heavy hearts and loving remembrance, the family and friends of Amelia Terisa Joseph share the news of her peaceful passing on June 18, 2025, at the age of 73. A lifelong beacon of love, laughter, and generosity, Amelia departed this life surrounded by those who cherished her most, leaving behind a radiant legacy that will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Life of Passion, Purpose, and Personal Touch

Born in 1952, Amelia built a life grounded in faith, family, and a passion for helping others look and feel their best. She dedicated more than 45 years to the beauty industry, earning a reputation not only as a master hair colorist but also as a respected educator and mentor to countless young stylists. Amelia’s mastery of her craft was matched only by the warmth she brought to every salon she entered and every person she served.

Clients didn’t just leave her chair with vibrant hair—they left feeling seen, heard, and uplifted. Her work was more than a profession; it was a calling to connect, to heal, and to empower through confidence and self-expression.

A Woman of Faith and Fellowship

Amelia was a devoted member of St. Maronite Church in Melbourne, Florida, where she found strength, community, and purpose. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions with compassion, humility, and grace. She often participated in church events and gave freely of her time and energy to support those in need—whether through organized charity drives or quiet acts of kindness that left a lasting mark.

Her spirituality was not just practiced in sacred spaces but was lived out daily in the way she treated others—with dignity, empathy, and joy.

Family, Friendship, and Joyful Moments

Those who knew Amelia will remember her as vibrant, witty, and endlessly generous. She was the soul of every gathering, the friend who always remembered birthdays, and the sister or aunt who made every visit feel like a celebration. Her love of life shone brightest in the simple joys she treasured: relaxing beach days under the Florida sun, late-night card games filled with laughter, and long, heartfelt conversations over coffee or wine.

Amelia was a natural storyteller—her words full of humor, honesty, and wisdom. Whether recounting tales from her childhood or offering advice drawn from decades of experience, she had a unique way of making people feel instantly at home.

Her home was often a lively hub for family and friends, where love was abundant, the food was always good, and the conversations stretched late into the night.

A Legacy Etched in Love

While her absence is felt deeply, Amelia Terisa Joseph’s legacy is one of warmth, strength, and beauty—both inside and out. She leaves behind a wide circle of family, friends, former students, and colleagues who were lucky enough to be touched by her heart and spirit.

To her family, she was a constant source of love and encouragement. To her friends, she was a loyal confidante and a boundless source of laughter. To her industry, she was a pioneer, a teacher, and a true artist. And to her community, she was an example of how to live life with boldness, kindness, and grace.

Honoring Her Memory

Though services are private, those wishing to honor Amelia’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to a local beauty school scholarship fund or to St. Maronite Church in her name—two places where her influence and love will continue to uplift others.

As her loved ones gather to reflect on the many ways she shaped their lives, they celebrate a woman who lived fully, loved deeply, and inspired everyone she encountered.

May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love she so freely gave in this life.

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion.”

 

 

Roderick Watkins Arrested After Shooting Injures Noah Briseno in Downtown Florence

FLORENCE, AL – June 29, 2025 — Florence Police have arrested 24-year-old Roderick Watkins in connection to a downtown shooting that left 21-year-old Noah Briseno wounded early Sunday morning.

At approximately 12:40 a.m., officers responded to reports of gunfire near Court Street, a busy area in downtown Florence. When officers arrived on the scene, they found Noah Briseno suffering from a gunshot wound to his ankle. He received immediate medical attention for what was described as a non-life-threatening injury.

Thanks to the quick response of several witnesses, officers were able to identify Roderick Watkins as the alleged shooter. Witnesses also provided a description of the vehicle involved — a gray Dodge Challenger — which officers located shortly after the shooting.

Florence Police initiated a high-risk traffic stop and successfully called Watkins out of the vehicle without incident. During a search of the vehicle, officers recovered a handgun believed to be connected to the shooting. Roderick Watkins was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Lauderdale County Detention Center.

Charges and Status

Watkins has been charged with reckless endangerment in connection with the shooting of Noah Briseno. Authorities confirmed that Watkins has since bonded out of custody. Investigators continue to gather information and review evidence, and additional charges may be considered as the case develops.

Community Praised for Cooperation

Florence Police officials credited the swift resolution to the cooperation of bystanders and timely witness statements, which were critical in identifying Roderick Watkins and locating the suspect vehicle.

“Thanks to the community’s assistance and the quick action of our officers, we were able to safely detain the suspect and begin our investigation without further risk to the public,” a department spokesperson said.

Investigation Ongoing

Noah Briseno is expected to recover fully from his injuries. Detectives with the Florence Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division are continuing their investigation and are encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward.

The Florence Police Department emphasized the importance of community involvement in resolving violent incidents and maintaining public safety, especially in areas with high foot traffic during weekend hours.

 

In Loving Memory of Juan E. Carreras (1988–2025)

Niagara Falls, New York – With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, the family and friends of Juan E. Carreras, 37, of Niagara Falls, New York, announce his unexpected passing on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Born in Puerto Rico on May 10, 1988, Juan brought light, warmth, and strength into the lives of all who knew him. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void in a family that loved him deeply and a community that admired his quiet resilience and unwavering love for those closest to him.

A Life Defined by Love and Loyalty

To those who knew Juan, he was a man of quiet strength, endless generosity, and deep devotion to his family. His life was grounded in love — most especially for his beloved daughter, Kaelynne Carreras, who was the center of his world. Everything Juan did was with Kaelynne in mind, and his pride in being her father was evident to all who saw them together.

Juan was also a cherished son to his parents, Ramon Carreras and Maria Esquilin, whose love and support were pillars throughout his life. He shared a powerful and enduring bond with his many siblings, whom he not only grew up alongside but stood with through every stage of life. The Carreras family, bound by a fierce loyalty and affection for one another, now leans on those bonds as they grieve the loss of one of their own.

Remembered by Many, Missed by All

Juan’s family extended far beyond blood — he was adored by a close-knit network of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws, all of whom were touched by his kindness, his laughter, and his ability to make people feel at ease. Whether it was a family cookout, a spontaneous gathering, or a quiet conversation late into the night, Juan had a way of showing up — fully and genuinely — for the people he cared about.

Those who knew Juan describe him as humble and hardworking, with a big heart and a gentle soul. He had a quiet wisdom that came not from textbooks but from experience, and he often offered comfort or guidance with just a few well-placed words. He may not have sought the spotlight, but his presence illuminated the lives around him.

Honoring His Legacy

Juan’s passing is not only a family tragedy but also a moment of deep reflection for the Niagara Falls community, where he had built a life grounded in both roots and responsibility. As friends and loved ones come to terms with his sudden departure, they are united in remembering a man who gave so much of himself and asked for so little in return.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to Zajac Funeral Home, a trusted local institution that has long served the needs of families in times of loss. In accordance with the wishes of the family, burial will take place privately, at the convenience of the family. Those who knew Juan are invited to keep him in their hearts and share memories that reflect the joy and love he brought to so many.

A Farewell, Not Goodbye

While the pain of losing Juan E. Carreras is deep and enduring, his legacy is one of strength, devotion, and unconditional love. He lives on in the smile of his daughter, in the memories shared among siblings, and in the stories that his family will continue to tell for generations.

In a life that ended far too soon, Juan gave everything that mattered — love, loyalty, and laughter. His spirit will forever be part of the fabric of his family and the city he called home.

May he rest in eternal peace.

“Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in the love they gave, the lessons they taught, and the memories we carry forward.”

Holiday Man Dies Following Medical Emergency While Driving, Causing Multiple Collisions on Garfield Drive

HOLIDAY, FL — June 28, 2025 — A quiet Saturday evening in the Holiday community turned somber following a tragic incident in which a 57-year-old local man died after suffering a medical emergency behind the wheel. The chain of events unfolded around 9:02 p.m. on Garfield Drive, resulting in a series of collisions that ultimately ended with the driver’s vehicle coming to rest after striking a porch post.

Sequence of Events

According to information released by local authorities, the man was driving a Nissan Pathfinder westbound on Garfield Drive when he suddenly lost consciousness while in motion. Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle swerve erratically across the roadway, ultimately striking multiple trash cans that had been placed near the curb.

The out-of-control Pathfinder then crashed into a parked and unoccupied Honda Civic stationed outside 3452 Garfield Drive, causing significant damage to the stationary vehicle. The force of the impact failed to stop the vehicle’s momentum, and it continued on a destructive path down the street.

Moments later, the vehicle collided with a tree, and finally came to a full stop only after smashing into a concrete porch post at 3444 Garfield Drive.

Emergency Response and Outcome

Emergency medical personnel arrived on scene promptly and transported the driver to a nearby hospital. Despite rapid intervention and efforts to stabilize him, the man was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival. No other individuals were injured in the incident, and no residents of the affected homes were harmed.

At this time, the man’s identity has not been publicly released pending notification of his next of kin.

No Criminal Activity Suspected

Authorities have indicated that the crash appears to have been caused solely by a medical emergency, and no signs of foul play or criminal negligence are suspected. A full autopsy and medical examination will be conducted to determine the precise cause of death and assess any pre-existing health conditions that may have contributed to the tragic event.

Neighborhood Reaction

Residents of Garfield Drive expressed shock and sorrow following the incident. While the crash caused notable property damage — including a destroyed section of a concrete porch and a totaled Honda Civic — neighbors were quick to look past the material loss and focus on the human tragedy at the center of it all.

“It was frightening at first because we didn’t know what was happening,” said one resident who witnessed the aftermath. “But once we heard it was a medical issue, our hearts just broke for him and his family.”

The crash also served as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change, with some neighbors recalling past incidents where drivers experiencing health-related episodes had similarly lost control of their vehicles.

A Call for Awareness

While rare, medical emergencies behind the wheel can be fatal — both for the driver and for others on the road. Authorities are using this incident as an opportunity to remind the public of the importance of regular health checkups, especially for older drivers or those with known conditions that may impair consciousness or control.

“These incidents underscore the need for ongoing conversations about driving fitness and safety, particularly as we age or manage chronic conditions,” said a spokesperson for the local sheriff’s office. “We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones.”

Ongoing Investigation

An official investigation into the full sequence of events and the medical cause behind the incident remains underway. Law enforcement will also evaluate any vehicle-related data and eyewitness accounts to finalize the report.

As the Holiday community mourns the unexpected loss, thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased — whose final moments turned a routine drive into an irreversible tragedy.

 

East Orange Mourns the Loss of Anthony Johnson, A Beloved Community Beacon

East Orange, N.J. — The city is enveloped in sorrow as it comes to terms with the unexpected loss of Anthony Johnson, who passed away in June 2025 at just 34 years old. Though his years were few, Anthony’s presence in the community was vast — one defined by compassion, unwavering support, and the quiet power of one person’s dedication to bettering the lives of those around him.

A Life Dedicated to Connection & Community

Raised and rooted in East Orange, Anthony had an innate ability to uplift others. Whether mentoring youth at local centers, volunteering at food pantries, or simply being a loyal friend, Anthony’s kindness radiated beyond his years. He was never one to seek recognition — preferring to make an impact through meaningful action rather than words.

Friends remember Anthony as the person who would always say, “I’ve got you”, and mean it. He had a knack for listening deeply and responding not with judgement but with empathy and encouragement. In a city with a rich tapestry of parks—from Memorial Park to Oval Playground  —Anthony brought people together, organizing neighborhood clean-ups and informal gatherings where laughter and support became the community’s heartbeat.

A Friend, a Brother, a Pillar

To his family and close friends, Anthony was more than a helper — he was a hero in everyday moments. He celebrated others’ successes as if they were his own and stood unwaveringly by them through heartache and hardship. His approach to life was simple but profound: be present, listen, and give wholeheartedly.

Loved ones recall evenings spent talking under the warm glow of porch lights, planning futures filled with shared goals and community growth. Anthony believed in East Orange — its people, its potential, and its promise.

Impact Felt Far Beyond the City Limits

Anthony’s influence extended beyond East Orange’s official borders. Known for his outreach, he forged connections with neighboring communities in Newark and beyond, collaborating with local nonprofits to address housing insecurity and access to services. He carried the spirit of East Orange wherever he went — a mixture of resilience, unity, and unwavering hope.

A Community in Remembrance

In the wake of his passing, East Orange has come together to honor Anthony’s legacy. A candlelight vigil at his favorite local park brought neighbors, co-workers, families, and friends to gather in memory of his life—marked by service, love, and an unshakeable belief in collective betterment. Stories were shared of the kind gestures he offered to strangers, the guidance he gave to troubled teens, and the warmth he offered in moments of despair.

One friend reflected, “Anthony made East Orange feel like home for all of us.” That sentiment resonates across the city today.

His Spirit Lives On

While Anthony Johnson may no longer walk the streets of East Orange, his spirit lives on in every good deed, heartfelt conversation, and moment of community unity he helped foster. The parks and playgrounds he loved — Paul Robeson Stadium, Francis-Haire Park, Elmwood Park — now hold a deeper resonance, reminders of his work to build spaces of belonging and joy  .

In the days ahead, his family plans to establish a memorial scholarship in Anthony’s name — intended to support youth-driven community projects that reflect his values: service, leadership, and compassion.

A Final Reflection

Anthony Johnson’s life may have been cut short, but the legacy he leaves behind is timeless. His story is one of everyday heroism, of small acts that ripple outward and build bonds stronger than any tragedy. East Orange remembers Anthony not just in sorrow, but in a promise: to carry forward his spirit of kindness, to extend grace to one another, and to live with the same quiet purpose that defined him.

May East Orange stand united, honoring Anthony’s memory not just in words, but in actions that reflect the very best of what he stood for—a community rooted in love, hope, and mutual care.

Victim Killed in Springfield Mass Shooting Identified as Keantra Mays
Community Mourns as Investigation Into Tragic Shooting Continues

SPRINGFIELD, OH — A late Saturday night turned devastating for the city of Springfield as a mass shooting on West Rose Street claimed the life of Keantra Mays and left multiple others injured, prompting a large-scale, multi-agency response and an ongoing investigation into the senseless act of violence.

The incident occurred on the 1000 block of West Rose Street, just before 10:46 p.m., when officers and medics were dispatched following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and injuries. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered a chaotic scene with five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, Keantra Mays was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Keantra, also known among loved ones as Keantra Jamal Mays or “Tre Mays,” has been remembered as a vibrant and much-loved member of the community. His death has sent shockwaves through Springfield, where friends, family, and neighbors are now grappling with the sudden and violent loss of someone described as kind-hearted, joyful, and full of promise.

At least two victims sustained life-threatening injuries and were airlifted by CareFlight to Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton. Additional victims were transported by both emergency services and private vehicles to Springfield Regional Medical Center and Kettering Health Springfield. While authorities have not yet released the identities or conditions of the wounded, their injuries range from moderate to critical.

A dispatch sergeant with the Springfield Police Division confirmed that a total of five people were shot during the incident. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and no suspects have been publicly identified or arrested as of Sunday afternoon.

Multiple agencies responded to the emergency, including:

• Springfield Police Division
• Clark County Sheriff’s Office
• Ohio State Highway Patrol
• Wittenberg University Police
• Springfield Fire and Rescue Division

The scale of the response underscores the severity of the situation and the concern for public safety in the aftermath of the shooting. Investigators are now collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage in an effort to piece together what led to the tragic eruption of violence.

In a public statement, the City of Springfield expressed its condolences to the victims and their families, calling the incident “a tragic act of violence that has deeply affected our community.”

Friends and family of Keantra Mays have begun to gather in mourning, sharing memories on social media and planning candlelight vigils in his honor. Hashtags like #KeantraJamalMays and #TreMays are circulating widely online as a way of keeping his memory alive and seeking justice for his untimely death.

Local leaders and residents are calling for peace and community healing in the wake of the tragedy. Many have emphasized the need for action against gun violence, especially as it continues to impact neighborhoods across the state and the nation.

As the community mourns the loss of Keantra Mays, there is a collective hope for justice, healing, and a future where such violence no longer takes innocent lives. For now, Springfield stands united in grief, searching for answers, and holding the victims and their loved ones in their hearts.

Missing Person Alert: Atlanta Police Searching for 79-Year-Old Charles R. Ellis Sr.
Community Urged to Assist in Locating Elderly Man with Dementia

ATLANTA, Ga.– Authorities in Atlanta are urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing elderly man, 79-year-old Charles R. Ellis Sr., who was last seen driving along the I-75/85 corridor in southwest Atlanta on Saturday. His sudden disappearance has sparked concern among family members and police, especially given his medical condition and vulnerable status.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, Mr. Ellis was last seen around 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, following his son in a 2013 white Kia Optima bearing a North Carolina license plate with the tag number “VDF3034.” The pair had been traveling southbound on Interstate 75/85 near Highway 166, when, under unknown circumstances, Ellis’ vehicle became separated from his son’s.

Concern intensified when, several hours later at approximately 7 p.m., the vehicle was reportedly last known to be in the vicinity of I-85 northbound near mile marker 150—a location that sits significantly north of the original separation point. How Ellis ended up traveling in that direction remains unclear, and authorities are urgently piecing together sightings or traffic camera footage that may help retrace his movements.

Police have emphasized that Mr. Ellis is considered a high-risk missing person, due to his recent diagnosis of dementia in June 2024, a condition that impairs memory, judgment, and orientation. As such, he may be disoriented, confused, and unable to ask for help or find his way back to familiar surroundings.

Charles Ellis is described as follows:

• Age: 79
• Height: 5 feet, 11 inches
• Weight: Approximately 250 pounds
• Build: Heavyset
• Hair: Bald
• Eyes: Brown
• Clothing: Last seen wearing a light-colored t-shirt and blue jeans

Family members are distraught and pleading with the public to keep an eye out for both Charles and the vehicle he was driving. “We just want him home safe,” said one family member. “He’s a kind man, and this is completely out of character. Please, if you see him, don’t hesitate to call for help.”

The Atlanta Police Department is urging anyone who has seen Mr. Ellis or his vehicle, or who may have any information about his possible whereabouts, to immediately contact 911, or call the Atlanta Police Department’s communications section at 404-658-6666.

Time is critical in situations involving individuals with cognitive impairments like dementia, as they are more susceptible to becoming disoriented and putting themselves in potentially dangerous situations—especially while behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Law enforcement has not indicated whether a Mattie’s Call, Georgia’s emergency alert for disabled or elderly missing persons, has been issued, but efforts to locate Mr. Ellis continue to intensify.

Please share this information widely. Every set of eyes helps, and a tip from a passerby could be the key to bringing Charles Ellis Sr. home safely.