Author: Admin

In Loving Memory of Mark Brokaw
A Brilliant Director, Trusted Collaborator, and Beloved Friend

It is with immense sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of the remarkable Mark Brokaw—an extraordinary director, a visionary collaborator, and a cherished friend whose presence enriched the lives of so many for over three decades. Mark died after a courageous and quietly fought two-year battle with cancer. He passed peacefully, surrounded by love, with the legacy of his life’s work shining brightly in the hearts of those who knew him best.

For more than 30 years, Mark was not only a consummate artist, but also a source of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering loyalty to the theater community. His instincts were unmatched, his insight sharp, and his compassion always apparent—even in the most pressure-filled rehearsal rooms. He directed with a rare blend of precision and generosity, treating every actor, writer, stage manager, and crew member with dignity and a fierce respect for the creative process. Mark’s gift wasn’t just in staging stories—it was in shaping them, deepening them, and helping others find truths in their characters they never knew they had.

Mark’s influence was far-reaching. His work illuminated stages from Broadway to regional theaters to international festivals. Whether collaborating on new plays or reimagining classics, he brought grace, intelligence, and a quiet confidence that elevated every project he touched. Writers loved him for his thoughtfulness. Actors trusted him for his steady hand. Producers leaned on him for his clarity. And those of us lucky enough to call him a friend leaned on him for everything else.

He had the rare ability to make you feel seen. Even when he was in the middle of a complicated tech run, he’d remember to ask about your dog, your kid, your side project. He sent thank you notes, actual handwritten ones. He gave pep talks backstage. He made people feel capable, valued, and safe. He had that twinkle in his eye, that sly sense of humor, and a laugh that could fill a lobby. And though he rarely made it about himself, Mark had stories—so many stories—and if you were lucky enough to sit at a dinner table with him, you’d get to hear some.

In these past two years, even as he privately faced the challenges of his illness, Mark remained deeply present and connected. He showed up for others when he could, stayed curious about new work, and continued to share wisdom with a whole new generation of theater artists. It was never about accolades or ego—it was always about the work, the collaboration, the people.

Today, we honor not only the extraordinary career Mark built but the deep humanity he brought to everything he touched. His passing leaves a space that cannot be filled. The lights on stage may still dim and rise, but they will never shine quite the same without him.

And to Mark—rest well, dear friend. You earned every moment of peace. We can imagine you somewhere, finally taking a breath, notebook in hand, watching a rehearsal in the clouds. But please—don’t cast any PB’s up there in Heaven. Just sit back and enjoy the show. You’ve given us enough brilliance for a lifetime.

With love, gratitude, and heartbreak,
Your friends, colleagues, and the countless souls you’ve inspired.

Nation Mourns the Loss of Joe Nester: Inspirational Musician and Recovery Advocate Leaves a Legacy of Healing, Hope, and Heart

Across the United States, hearts are shattered by the tragic and unexpected passing of Joe Nester, a beloved and fiercely inspirational musician and recovery advocate from DeLand, Florida. Joe’s life was a testament to the transformative power of music, second chances, and raw, unfiltered truth. More than just a singer-songwriter, Joe Nester was a lifeline for thousands who found in his lyrics and his journey a reason to keep going — to fight addiction, to find faith, and to believe in redemption.

News of Joe’s passing spread swiftly, sparking an overwhelming wave of grief, remembrance, and gratitude from fans, fellow artists, and countless individuals he helped through his advocacy and vulnerability. From recovery centers and prison yards to festival stages and viral videos, Joe Nester left an indelible mark everywhere he went.

“He didn’t just sing about pain — he sang us through it,” wrote one supporter in a tribute post online. “Joe saved more lives than he ever knew.”

A Voice Forged in Fire

Joe Nester’s rise was not born of fame or industry polish — it was born of pain, perseverance, and powerful authenticity. A former addict who battled through the darkness of substance abuse, incarceration, and homelessness, Joe didn’t hide his past — he embraced it. He laid it bare in his music and used it as a beacon for others struggling to find their way out of despair.

Through his compelling storytelling and gritty vocals, Joe gave voice to those who often feel invisible: the broken, the bruised, the overlooked, and the still-recovering. His songs were raw journal entries set to melody — truth wrapped in chords. Whether performing “This Is Me,” “One Last Stand,” or “Take Me Back,” his lyrics connected deeply with people from all walks of life.

Joe’s authenticity was unmatched. He didn’t sing about recovery; he lived it — and he brought people with him every step of the way.

Music That Saved Lives

Nester’s performances weren’t just concerts — they were healing sessions. His lyrics spoke of pain but also of hope, reminding listeners that no matter how far they’ve fallen, they can rise again.

Through grassroots touring, live social media performances, and powerful collaborations with fellow recovery advocates and musicians, Joe built a community bonded not just by his sound, but by the soul behind it.

He was a familiar face at recovery events, sober festivals, and nonprofit initiatives aimed at combating addiction and supporting mental health. His message was clear and unwavering: Recovery is possible. You are not alone.

“He wasn’t just a musician,” said a fan who met Joe during a sober event. “He was living proof that light can come from the darkest places.”

A Life of Purpose

Joe Nester’s mission extended far beyond the stage. He used his growing platform to raise awareness about the opioid crisis, mental health struggles, and the importance of treatment and community support. He openly shared his own experiences with trauma, addiction, and redemption to inspire others not to give up.

Through his music label, his social outreach, and his countless hours spent visiting treatment centers, Joe turned his pain into a purpose. He became a symbol of hope and a leader in the recovery community — not because he claimed to have all the answers, but because he was brave enough to keep asking the hard questions, and to walk beside others as they sought their own healing.

He was also known for his humility. Despite his growing influence and online following, Joe remained grounded and grateful, always redirecting praise toward those who supported him and those still fighting their battles.

A Nation in Mourning

The outpouring of tributes in the wake of Joe Nester’s passing has been both heartbreaking and beautiful. Social media is flooded with stories of fans who credit Joe’s music with saving their lives. Fellow artists and recovery speakers have honored his legacy with emotional posts and videos, remembering Joe not only for his talent but for his courage and compassion.

Candlelight vigils, tribute concerts, and memorial events are being planned across the country, a reflection of how deeply Joe touched the hearts of so many.

In one of his most powerful lyrics, Joe sang: “I found strength when I was weak / And peace inside the pain.” Now, those words carry even more weight for the people he leaves behind.

A Legacy That Will Never Fade

Though the loss of Joe Nester is immeasurable, his legacy will endure — in the songs he left behind, in the lives he helped save, and in the movement he helped build.

His passing leaves a void, yes — but also a call to action: to continue the work he started, to speak truth, to support those in recovery, and to never let stigma silence those who are struggling.

Joe Nester may no longer walk among us, but his spirit echoes in every note of healing music, every act of service, every honest conversation about addiction and recovery.

He was more than an artist.

He was a warrior.

He was a healer.

He was hope.

Rest in power, Joe Nester. Your voice will never be silenced, and your light will continue to guide those still fighting their way home.

Patrick Proefriedt Sentenced to 25 Years to Life for Firing Crossbow That Killed 3-Week-Old Daughter Eleanor and Injured Wife Destiny

COLESVILLE, N.Y. — In a case that has horrified the community and shaken the foundations of what should have been a time of love and new beginnings, 26-year-old Patrick Proefriedt will serve 25 years to life in prison for the brutal killing of his newborn daughter, Eleanor Proefriedt, and the attempted murder of his wife, Destiny Proefriedt.

Patrick admitted to unleashing a broadhead crossbow bolt at Destiny during a violent argument inside their Colesville home in June 2023 — fully aware she was holding their 3-week-old daughter at the time. The razor-tipped bolt pierced through Eleanor’s tiny body, striking her in the torso and exiting through her armpit before hitting Destiny in the chest. Baby Eleanor was killed instantly. Destiny, though seriously injured, survived.

On Friday, Broome County Court Judge Joseph Cawley handed down the maximum sentence for second-degree murder and attempted murder, condemning Proefriedt’s actions as “inhuman” and “irreparably devastating.”

“This was not a moment of madness,” Judge Cawley said sternly. “This was an act of deliberate, intimate violence. Patrick Proefriedt destroyed his own family in the most cowardly way imaginable.”

A Calculated Act of Domestic Terror

The tragic events unfolded just after 5:15 a.m. on June 26, 2023, when Broome County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the couple’s home following a chilling 911 call. Investigators say the argument between Patrick and Destiny escalated to lethal violence when Patrick retrieved a crossbow and fired at his wife without hesitation.

As Destiny cradled baby Eleanor in her arms, the bolt tore through the infant before embedding into Destiny’s chest. Despite her wounds, Destiny attempted to call for help. Patrick then tried to pull the bolt from her body and physically stopped her from reaching her phone before fleeing the home in a red Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Deputies launched an immediate search and found Patrick Proefriedt within hours. His truck had become stuck in the mud less than a mile from the home, and he was hiding in nearby woods when he was taken into custody.

The Broome County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Patrick had a documented history of domestic violence, and that prior threats against Destiny had raised red flags that tragically culminated in the death of their child.

Eleanor’s Death Reverberates Through the Community

The killing of baby Eleanor Proefriedt left a gaping wound not only in her mother’s heart but also across the Colesville community. Described by neighbors as a quiet family, the horror that unfolded behind closed doors stunned even seasoned investigators.

At a community vigil held shortly after the incident, dozens gathered with candles, teddy bears, and tearful prayers for Eleanor. Her short life — just three weeks old — was remembered with profound grief and disbelief.

Destiny Proefriedt, now a survivor of unimaginable loss, has become a voice for victims of domestic violence. In a statement made through her attorney, she mourned her daughter’s life and called for justice to protect other families from similar fates.

“Eleanor was innocent. She was everything good and pure in this world,” Destiny said. “Patrick took her from me, and I’ll live every day with that pain. But I survived, and I will speak for her — and for every woman who thinks she has to stay silent.”

No Mercy for Patrick Proefriedt

During sentencing, District Attorney Michael Korchak called Proefriedt’s actions “an act of evil so senseless it defies words.”

“Patrick Proefriedt didn’t just end a life — he shattered a future, he left scars no prison term can erase, and he weaponized the very home meant to protect a child,” Korchak said.

Proefriedt, who showed no remorse in court, was led away in handcuffs to begin serving his sentence: 25 years to life — a punishment many believe still falls short of true justice for baby Eleanor.

A Legacy of Love, Not Fear

As the legal chapter of this tragic case closes, Destiny Proefriedt remains focused on healing and remembering her daughter not for how she died, but for who she was — a precious, innocent child who deserved a full life, not a crossbow bolt.

In her memory, Destiny says she will fight to ensure Eleanor’s name stands as a warning, a cry for change, and a symbol of love rising from unthinkable pain.

Tragedy in South Abilene: 24-Year-Old Aleisha Cabrera Killed, Steven Pena Arrested for Murder While Child Was in the Home

ABILENE, TX — A South Abilene neighborhood is reeling after a tragic domestic violence incident claimed the life of 24-year-old Aleisha Cabrera late Saturday night, June 28, 2025. The young mother was found shot to death inside her apartment while her small daughter was reportedly present during the violence. Steven Pena, 23, has been arrested and charged with First Degree Felony Murder in connection with the case.

The incident unfolded just before 11:00 p.m. at an apartment complex located in the 2600 block of Ivanhoe Lane. Officers from the Abilene Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting an injured person from a shooting. Upon arrival, law enforcement quickly secured the scene and discovered Cabrera unresponsive, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency responders pronounced her deceased at the scene.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect, Steven Pena, was still on the premises when officers arrived. He was detained without incident and transported to the Abilene Police Department for questioning. Following the interview, Pena was formally charged and booked into the Taylor County Jail, where he faces a charge of First Degree Murder. No bond has been set at this time.

Perhaps most heartbreaking, the couple’s young daughter was reportedly in the home at the time of the shooting. Thankfully, she was not physically harmed. Officers immediately contacted Child Protective Services, who have since taken custody of the child as the legal process unfolds.

Aleisha Cabrera’s death is a devastating loss for her loved ones, many of whom describe her as a bright, loving, and devoted mother. Friends and family have begun expressing their grief online, sharing photos and tributes in her memory. One post reads: “She lit up every room. She was strong, beautiful, and loved her daughter more than anything. This should never have happened.”

The Abilene Police Department emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, and they are working to piece together the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter. Officers have not publicly released details about a possible motive, nor whether the incident followed a history of domestic disputes.

Police Chief Stan Standridge issued a brief statement to local media:

“This is an unspeakable tragedy, made even more heartbreaking by the presence of a young child. Our thoughts are with the family of Ms. Cabrera, and we are committed to seeking justice on her behalf.”

This case serves as another grim reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the innocent lives caught in its wake. Local advocates are encouraging anyone experiencing abuse to seek help through resources such as the Noah Project in Abilene, which offers 24-hour crisis support, shelter, and counseling.

As the community mourns, loved ones of Aleisha Cabrera are working to organize support efforts for her daughter, who now faces life without her mother.

Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division at (325) 676-6610 or submit anonymous tips through Abilene Crime Stoppers at (325) 676-TIPS.

 

Remembering Peyton Allen Mason: A Beloved Husband, Father, and Pillar of the Gloucester Courthouse Community

With heavy hearts, the community of Gloucester Courthouse, Virginia, mourns the untimely passing of Peyton Allen Mason, who died on June 25, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father, and loyal friend, Peyton’s loss has left a profound void in the hearts of his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

At the core of Peyton’s life was his family. He was a steadfast partner to his wife, Taylor, and an adoring father to their two young daughters, Eliza Jane and Baya Mae, who were the light of his life. Peyton’s love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life—his quiet sacrifices, his unwavering presence, and the joy he found in simply being with them. His daughters, though young, will grow up hearing stories of their father’s strength, character, and how deeply he loved them.

Peyton was also a respected member of the local fishing and maritime community, known for his deep connection to the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding areas. With an innate understanding of the tides and a passion for the sea, Peyton was the kind of man who worked with his hands, respected nature’s rhythms, and found meaning in a life spent close to the water. Whether hauling crab pots at dawn or swapping stories at the dock, he was admired for his work ethic, humility, and quiet wisdom.

Friends and neighbors describe Peyton as a man of few words but infinite kindness. He never sought the spotlight, but his presence was always felt—steady, calm, and compassionate. He was someone you could rely on, someone who showed up when it mattered most, and someone who truly cared.

His sudden passing has deeply shaken those around him, especially his young family, who now face not only the emotional toll of loss but also the practical and financial burdens that follow. In this time of unimaginable grief, the Gloucester Courthouse community has rallied to offer support. Fundraising efforts are underway to help Taylor, Eliza Jane, and Baya Mae navigate the difficult road ahead, providing some measure of relief in the midst of sorrow.

As tributes continue to pour in from friends, colleagues, and community members, one thing is abundantly clear: Peyton Allen Mason’s life made a difference. His legacy is one of love, integrity, and dedication—to his family, his work, and his community.

May Peyton be remembered always with the love he so freely gave, and may his family find comfort in the embrace of a community that stands with them. Rest in peace, Peyton—you are deeply missed and forever cherished.

 

Springfield Reels After Overnight Mass Shooting Leaves One Dead, Multiple Injured

SPRINGFIELD, OH — A devastating mass shooting unfolded late last night in Springfield, leaving one person dead and several others wounded in a violent outbreak that has shaken the community. Emergency crews were called to the 1000 block of West Rose Street around 10:46 p.m. after reports of gunfire echoed through the neighborhood.

Upon arrival, police discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, one individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Due to the severity of injuries sustained, at least two victims were airlifted via medical helicopter to Miami Valley Hospital, while others were transported by ambulance and private vehicles to Springfield Regional Medical Center and Kettering Health Springfield.

The city’s official statement noted, “The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information about the victims or their conditions is available at this time.”

Multi-Agency Response

In response to the chaotic scene, a coordinated effort was launched involving several law enforcement and emergency service agencies, including the Springfield Police Division, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Wittenberg University Police, and the Springfield Fire and Rescue Division. Their swift action was vital in securing the area, assisting victims, and beginning a thorough investigation into the shooting’s circumstances.

Community Impact and Investigation

This tragic event has left Springfield residents in shock and mourning. The reasons behind the shooting and identities of those involved remain undisclosed as authorities work tirelessly to piece together what led to the outbreak of violence.

Authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or possesses any information that could aid the investigation to come forward. Tips can be made directly to the Springfield Police Division, and anonymous information may be submitted via email at spdtip@springfieldohio.gov.

Looking Forward

As the investigation progresses, city officials and law enforcement agencies have pledged transparency and will provide updates as new details become available. The priority remains providing support to victims and their families, ensuring justice is served, and restoring a sense of safety and peace to the affected community.

This tragic night serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for community cooperation in combating violence and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding neighborhoods.

 

Akron Police Seek Public’s Help in Identifying Vehicle Involved in Fatal Hit-Skip Crash

AKRON, OH — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded early Saturday morning in Akron as a 43-year-old woman lost her life in a fatal hit-skip crash. The Akron Police Department is now urgently seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the vehicle and driver responsible for the senseless act that has left a family devastated and a community in mourning.

Shortly after midnight, Akron police officers and emergency responders were dispatched to the area of W. South Street and the Ohio & Erie Canal Way Path Crosswalk near Lake Shore Boulevard. Upon arrival, they discovered the woman lying in the roadway, having suffered catastrophic injuries. Despite the efforts of first responders, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Search for the Suspect Vehicle

According to a preliminary investigation, the vehicle involved in the incident is believed to be a silver Chevrolet Malibu, which fled the scene immediately after the collision. The suspect vehicle was last seen heading eastbound on West South Street.

Authorities report that the car likely sustained visible front-end damage, including damage to the headlight assembly, hood, and possibly the windshield, as a result of the impact.

“This was a senseless and heartbreaking tragedy,” said Akron Police Chief Brian Harding in a public statement Saturday morning. “We need the community’s help to identify the person responsible and bring justice to the victim’s family. No one should have to suffer such a devastating loss without answers.”

Appeal for Information

The Akron Police Department is asking for help from anyone who may have seen the incident, spotted a vehicle matching the description, or has knowledge of a silver Chevrolet Malibu that recently sustained unexplained damage.

Tips can be submitted to the Akron Police Department Detective Bureau at:

• 📞 330-375-2490
• 📞 330-375-2Tip

Anonymous tips are also welcome through the following:

• 📞 Summit County Crimestoppers: 330-434-COPS
• 📱 Text TIPSCO to 274637
• 📲 Use the Akron PD app via Tips411

Community in Mourning

The identity of the victim has not yet been released publicly pending notification of her family. Community members have begun expressing condolences and outrage on social media, demanding accountability and increased pedestrian safety in the area. The crosswalk, situated along a pathway frequented by walkers and cyclists, is known for limited visibility at night.

This tragedy serves as yet another reminder of the dangers pedestrians face and the importance of drivers exercising caution, especially in mixed-use areas.

Akron police continue to canvass nearby neighborhoods and businesses for surveillance footage that may provide additional clues.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, the Akron Police Department remains committed to uncovering the truth and holding the responsible party accountable. Community cooperation is vital in solving this case. Anyone with even the smallest piece of information is strongly urged to come forward. The family of the victim—and Akron at large—deserves justice.

 

Hephzibah Woman Charged After Fatal Crash on I-20 That Killed Unrestrained Passenger

Columbia County, GA – June 29, 2025 – A Hephzibah woman, Basheenia Lee, 48, is facing criminal charges following a tragic single-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 that ultimately claimed the life of her passenger, Mario Mallory, 40, of White Plains, Georgia. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announced that Lee was charged Wednesday with homicide by vehicle in the second degree and failure to maintain lane in connection with the May 29 accident.

According to investigators, the crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. near mile marker 189, just west of Horizon South Parkway, as Lee was traveling eastbound in her 1994 Chevrolet pickup truck. Lee later admitted to deputies that she fell asleep behind the wheel while in the outside lane. Her vehicle veered off the south edge of the roadway, which jolted her awake. In a panic, she overcorrected, swerving sharply to the left and crossing all lanes of traffic before crashing into the north guardrail.

The force of the impact caused Lee’s vehicle to rebound back into traffic, where it collided with a 2018 Kia Soul driven by 20-year-old Zacharia Nolen of Grovetown. After the collision, the pickup truck rotated and flipped approximately three times, ejecting passenger Mario Mallory, who was not wearing a seatbelt.

Mallory suffered critical injuries and was transported to Doctors Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on June 4, nearly a week after the crash.

Lee was arrested and booked on the felony and traffic charges but was later released on a $2,200 bond. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the crash was preventable, citing driver fatigue as the primary cause and lack of seatbelt use as a contributing factor in the fatality.

The Kia Soul driven by Zacharia Nolen was also affected in the incident. Nolen’s vehicle was forced off the south shoulder, through a ditch, and finally came to rest in the center median. The report did not include information on Nolen’s physical condition following the crash.

An accident reconstruction team from CCSO produced a detailed illustration outlining the sequence of events, highlighting the severity of the swerving motion and multiple impacts involved.

The tragic accident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of drowsy driving and the importance of seatbelt use. Authorities are urging all drivers to take rest seriously during long trips and to ensure all passengers are securely restrained.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further court proceedings are expected as Lee faces charges related to the fatal collision.

Fatal Crash Near Plankinton Claims Life of Mount Vernon Man

Aurora County, South Dakota – A tragic two-vehicle collision northwest of Plankinton on Friday afternoon has resulted in the death of a Mount Vernon man, according to preliminary information released by the South Dakota Highway Patrol. The crash occurred approximately three miles northwest of Plankinton at the intersection of 252nd Street and 383rd Avenue.

Authorities report that the crash took place when a 2003 Chevrolet, which was traveling eastbound on 252nd Street, failed to yield at the intersection with 383rd Avenue. As the Chevrolet entered the intersection, it collided with a northbound Dodge Ram 3500.

The force of the impact caused the Dodge to roll over, and both vehicles came to rest in the northeast ditch.

Tragically, the driver of the Dodge Ram 3500 was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. The victim is a male resident of Mount Vernon, though his identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

A passenger in the Dodge sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet also suffered minor injuries and did not require hospitalization, according to responding officials.

Emergency crews, including local fire departments, EMS, and law enforcement, responded quickly to the site of the collision. The South Dakota Highway Patrol has taken the lead in the investigation, which remains active and ongoing. They are working to determine all contributing factors, including whether visibility, speed, or distraction played a role.

The tragic loss has left the Mount Vernon and Plankinton communities grieving, as another life is cut short on South Dakota’s rural roads. Authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution at intersections, especially in rural areas where stop signs and cross-traffic may not be anticipated.

No further information has been released at this time. Once the family has been notified, the name of the deceased is expected to be made public by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Robert Dunham and Jesse Brummett Killed in High-Speed Crash on West Chapel Road

Franklin County, Indiana – The community is mourning the loss of two local men, Robert William Leo Dunham, 49, of Oldenburg, and Jesse E. Brummett Jr., 51, of Sunman, following a devastating crash that occurred Saturday evening, June 28, 2025.

At approximately 6:44 p.m., Franklin County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area of 27200 West Chapel Road near Rushville after receiving reports of a serious vehicle accident. According to the initial call, a car had reportedly struck a utility pole, a tree, and ultimately crashed into a residence.

Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found a red 2007 Chevrolet Impala with significant damage. A preliminary investigation revealed that Robert Dunham had been driving westbound on West Chapel Road at a high rate of speed when the vehicle crested a hill, briefly became airborne, and slammed into the pavement upon landing. The car veered off the roadway, first to the north side, then crossed to the south side, where it struck a utility pole, continued through a grassy area, hit a tree, and became airborne once more before colliding with a home at 27212 West Chapel Road.

Both Robert Dunham and Jesse Brummett were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries.

Deputies discovered alcoholic beverages in the vehicle, and while toxicology results are still pending, excessive speed and possible impairment are believed to have played a role in the fatal crash, based on witness statements and physical evidence.

Franklin County Coroner Brian Baxter responded and took custody of the victims. Thankfully, no one inside the residence was injured, although the structure did sustain notable damage from the impact.

Emergency services, including Letts EMS and the Clarksburg Fire Department, assisted at the scene.

In a statement, Major Gregory Mehlbauer of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department expressed condolences to the families of Robert Dunham and Jesse Brummett. “This was a preventable tragedy that has left two families grieving. We urge all drivers to make safety their top priority and to avoid high-risk behavior behind the wheel.”

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities will release more information once the results of the forensic examination and toxicology reports are completed.

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