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His voice, revered by all who had the privilege of hearing it, became the lifeblood of the mandir. It was not just a tool for singing bhajans—it was a conduit through which the community could connect with the divine. Through his powerful renditions of sacred hymns, Pandit Kumar Narine had the unique ability to move devotees to tears, invoking emotions that went beyond the material world and touched the very core of their beings.

The bhajans he led were not merely songs; they were prayers, expressions of devotion, and spiritual calls to action. His voice had a rare quality that allowed every syllable to resonate deeply within the hearts of listeners, creating an atmosphere where worship was not only a ritual, but a living, breathing experience. In times of joy, his bhajans amplified the elation of the community, filling the mandir with a sense of collective celebration. During solemn occasions, when grief or uncertainty clouded the hearts of devotees, his voice provided a soothing balm, lifting spirits and reinforcing faith.

However, it was not just his singing that made Pandit Kumar Narine such an integral part of the Shri Trimurti Bhavan Mandir. His wisdom and counsel, often offered in private moments with devotees, were deeply cherished. In a world where people often struggle to navigate the complexities of life, his words provided clarity and comfort. He had an innate ability to listen with a compassionate heart, offering counsel that was both practical and spiritually grounded. Whether it was a moment of personal tragedy, family distress, or spiritual confusion, devotees turned to him for advice, knowing that his words would come from a place of deep understanding and love.

Pandit Kumar Narine’s role in the community was one that transcended mere participation in religious ceremonies. He was a cornerstone, a pillar upon which many leaned in their times of need. His ability to be present in both joyous and solemn moments was what truly made him indispensable to the Shri Trimurti Bhavan Mandir. In celebrations, his leadership brought unity, guiding the community with grace and humility. In moments of sorrow, his steady presence brought comfort, reminding all who gathered at the mandir that the divine was always near, offering solace in times of grief.

But beyond his voice and counsel, it was his unwavering devotion to service that truly defined him. For Pandit Kumar Narine, every act—whether it was leading a prayer, offering guidance, or simply being there for someone in need—was an opportunity to serve the divine. His deep faith and commitment to his spiritual path were evident in every aspect of his life. Through his service, he exemplified the teachings of the scriptures, living them with authenticity and humility.

The Shri Trimurti Bhavan Mandir was, in many ways, Pandit Kumar Narine’s spiritual home, a place where he found purpose, and in turn, became the very heart of the community. His legacy is not only written in the songs and prayers that continue to echo through the walls of the mandir, but also in the countless lives he touched, the comfort he provided, and the strength he gave to those around him. To speak of Pandit Kumar Narine is to speak of devotion, service, and a life lived in the highest spirit of compassion and faith. He was, and always will be, a son of Shri Trimurti Bhavan Mandir, in every sense of the word.

 

Karen Beaumont Carter, a 65-year-old British mother of four, was found fatally stabbed outside her home in the tranquil village of Trémolat, Dordogne, France. The attack, described as frenzied and savage, occurred on Tuesday night after she had spent the evening at a local bar with a male friend, with whom she had been in a relationship for several weeks. Carter was discovered outside near her car with multiple deep stab wounds on her body and died at the scene despite medical efforts.

A 69-year-old woman from Trémolat, known to the couple, has been detained in connection with the murder. French authorities have opened a murder investigation, led by police from Bergerac and Agen. Mrs. Carter had been living part-time in France with her husband, Alan Carter, dividing their time with South Africa. The investigation noted a recent friendship with a man who discovered her body and called emergency services; he was questioned and released. Alan Carter refuted claims of a romantic relationship and expressed disbelief over the murder.

Karen was well-regarded in the community, notably as a member of a local over-50s women’s football team, Les Reines du Foot. The team and community have expressed deep sorrow at her death. The family is planning a funeral in France and will scatter her ashes in Trémolat and South Africa.

Her sudden death has shocked the peaceful village, with many residents now fearful and locking their doors. The British Foreign Office has offered support, though they have not been contacted by local authorities.

 

A Passionate Advocate for Truth

Matt Arco’s career was defined by his unwavering commitment to truth and his deep understanding of the political landscape of New Jersey. As a political reporter for NJ Advance Media, he was often at the forefront of breaking news, uncovering stories that held public figures accountable and shed light on issues critical to the residents of New Jersey. Arco’s reporting was marked by a rare blend of incisiveness and empathy, always seeking to provide a comprehensive and accurate account of events, while also taking the time to understand the broader human context behind the headlines.

His career was built on a foundation of hard work, tenacity, and a dedication to uncovering the truth, no matter how difficult or controversial the story might be. His ability to dig deep into complex political issues and his knack for crafting clear, compelling narratives made him an indispensable resource for anyone trying to understand the intricate and often turbulent political landscape of the Garden State. Whether covering elections, policy changes, or public scandals, Arco’s stories were always well-researched and thought-provoking, offering readers a nuanced perspective on the issues that shaped their lives.

A Gentle and Warm Personality

While Arco’s professional accomplishments were impressive, what truly set him apart was his character. He was widely regarded for his warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit. Colleagues who worked with him describe him as someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it was offering advice on a story, supporting a colleague during a tough assignment, or simply sharing a laugh to ease the pressures of the job. In an industry often known for its high-stakes environment and competitive nature, Arco’s kindness and genuine concern for others made him a unique presence in the newsroom.

His ability to balance the demands of a high-profile career with such an authentic and caring approach to his colleagues and community was a testament to his exceptional emotional intelligence. For many, his personality was a breath of fresh air in a fast-paced and often cutthroat industry. Even in the most tense or stressful moments, Arco’s calm demeanor and sense of humor provided a grounding influence on those around him.

A Lasting Impact on New Jersey Journalism

Arco’s impact on New Jersey journalism cannot be overstated. He was more than just a political reporter; he was a vital part of the community’s dialogue, helping to shape the way people understood and engaged with the world around them. His work was a reflection of his deep connection to the state of New Jersey and its people. He took pride in covering the stories that mattered most to New Jersey residents, from local issues that affected daily life to the larger political battles that defined the state’s future.

His reporting was not just about presenting facts; it was about telling the stories of real people and giving a voice to those who might otherwise be overlooked or ignored. This commitment to serving the public interest earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, many of whom considered him not only a talented reporter but also a mentor and a friend. His passing represents a loss not only for his family and loved ones but for the entire state of New Jersey, which has lost one of its most dedicated and effective storytellers.

A Legacy of Integrity and Excellence

In a time when the role of journalism is more crucial than ever, Matt Arco’s work stands as a beacon of integrity and excellence. His relentless pursuit of truth, his ability to navigate the complexities of political reporting with skill and sensitivity, and his deep commitment to his craft set a standard for others to follow. He was a journalist who understood that his role was not just to inform but to engage with his audience, to challenge assumptions, and to encourage a deeper understanding of the issues that affected people’s lives.

While his career was tragically cut short, the impact of his work will continue to resonate within the world of New Jersey journalism for years to come. Arco’s legacy is one of dedication, professionalism, and a heartfelt commitment to telling the truth—qualities that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of journalists who seek to follow in his footsteps.

The Loss of a Friend and Mentor

For those who knew him personally, Matt Arco was more than just a colleague; he was a friend, a mentor, and a trusted confidant. His passing leaves a profound sense of grief and loss among those who had the privilege of working with him. Many have shared memories of his kindness, his infectious sense of humor, and his willingness to always support others, both in their professional endeavors and in their personal lives.

Arco’s untimely death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from those who admired him, not only as a journalist but as a person. Colleagues have recalled how he could always be counted on to offer a thoughtful perspective, to lend an ear during difficult times, and to bring lightness to even the most challenging moments. His presence in the newsroom was a source of strength and stability, and the void left by his passing will be felt deeply by those who were fortunate enough to work alongside him.

Remembering Matt Arco

As the journalism community mourns the loss of Matt Arco, it is clear that his contributions to the field and to New Jersey will never be forgotten. His legacy will live on in the stories he wrote, the relationships he built, and the inspiration he provided to his colleagues. In a world that often feels increasingly divided, Arco’s work serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to unite, inform, and enlighten. His commitment to truth, fairness, and integrity in reporting was a testament to the very best qualities of the profession.

Matt Arco may no longer be with us, but the mark he left on the world of journalism will remain indelible. His passing is a loss not only for those who knew him but for the entire state of New Jersey and for the profession that he served with such passion and dedication. In remembering Matt Arco, we honor his work, his spirit, and the profound impact he had on the world around him.

 

Kristine Winder was born on October 15, 1955, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. She gained prominence as a Canadian model, notably being featured as Playboy magazine’s Playmate of the Month for October 1977. Her centerfold, titled “Invitation to the Dance,” was photographed by Mario Casilli. Kristine chose to use a pseudonym for her modeling work to maintain privacy from her family, though the name change did not prevent her identity from becoming known. Her modeling career, marked by grace and poise, left a lasting impression in the industry.

Beyond her modeling achievements, Kristine was known for her vibrant personality and the joy she brought to those around her. She was a unique soul with a great sense of humor, diligence, and a caring nature. Her presence could light up any room, and she will be dearly missed by family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Kristine passed away in 2011 at the age of 55. The specific details surrounding her cause of death have not been publicly disclosed. Her passing was a significant loss to her loved ones and the community she touched.

As we remember Kristine, we honor a life beautifully lived and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of many. Her legacy continues through the memories shared by those who knew her, and her spirit lives on in the love and joy she spread throughout her life.

Our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers are with Kristine’s family and friends during this time of mourning. May you find comfort in the cherished memories and the knowledge that her light continues to shine in the lives she touched

For those wishing to pay tribute, sharing stories and memories of Kristine can be a meaningful way to celebrate her life and the impact she had on others.

 

NASSAU COUNTY, N.Y. (WKRC) – A devastating and violent incident unfolded on a Long Island highway Friday afternoon, culminating in the death of a young motorcyclist and the arrest of a 64-year-old retired man. The tragic episode has left a family in mourning and a community grappling with the consequences of what authorities are calling a deadly road rage encounter.

At approximately 2:14 p.m., police say 64-year-old Brian Noll of Scio, New York, intentionally swerved his 2022 Ford F-150 pickup truck into a 2016 Kawasaki motorcycle being ridden by 29-year-old Ibis Alex Baez of the Bronx. The impact reportedly pinned Baez against a metal guardrail, fatally injuring him at the scene. Emergency services were unable to save Baez, who was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Noll was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He appeared in court on Saturday and pleaded not guilty. The charges, if upheld, carry serious legal consequences, including the possibility of life in prison. Noll’s legal defense, however, is arguing the incident was not a crime but a tragic accident that spiraled out of control.

According to News12 Long Island, Noll’s attorney painted a very different picture from what prosecutors allege. The unnamed lawyer claimed that Baez was the aggressor, describing the victim as a reckless rider who allegedly attempted to damage Noll’s truck during a high-speed altercation.

“This was an unfortunate accident that was caused by a motorcyclist who was operating his motorcycle in the most reckless of ways,” the attorney said, contending that Baez became enraged over something Noll had done on the road. The lawyer claimed Baez “positioned his motorcycle alongside the truck and then took his hand off the throttle… to break off the mirror of the truck in a rage.” The defense argues this act caused both drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to the fatal crash.

The attorney emphasized Noll’s longstanding community ties and character, describing him as a “64-year-old grandfather” who had recently retired and relocated upstate after a lifetime of hard work, churchgoing, and quiet living on Long Island. “He was coming back to see some family when this motorcyclist was wreaking havoc on the roads,” the lawyer told News12.

While the defense seeks to cast Noll in a sympathetic light, the family of Ibis Alex Baez is mourning the sudden and violent loss of a man they describe in stark contrast to the defense’s portrayal. Baez’s brother-in-law, Goldwynn Redding, told The New York Post that Baez had “a gentle spirit” and was not the kind of person to engage in confrontational behavior. “He wouldn’t initiate any kind of confrontation with anybody,” Redding said, questioning the narrative being advanced by the accused’s legal team.

As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are reviewing nearby surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and gathering data to determine the precise sequence of events that led to the deadly crash. Nassau County police have not yet released the full details of their findings, but the second-degree murder charge suggests that investigators believe Noll acted with intent or depraved indifference.

The case has ignited debate and raised broader concerns about road rage and the consequences of aggressive driving. In a region as densely populated and trafficked as Long Island, tensions between drivers—particularly between cars and motorcycles—can sometimes escalate dangerously.

Whether this incident was indeed a tragic accident or a fatal act of road rage will ultimately be decided in court. For now, a family grieves a young life lost, and a retired man faces a legal battle that may determine the rest of his own.

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May 18, 2009 – April 30, 2025

Lane Alan Pruett, a vibrant and beloved 15-year-old from Holton, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Born on May 18, 2009, in Topeka, Kansas, Lane was the cherished son of Benjamin Alan and Shelby Lee (Duncan) Pruett. His sudden departure has left an indescribable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the wider Holton community who knew and loved him.

From the moment Lane entered the world, his infectious energy and bright spirit brought light to everyone around him. With a magnetic personality and a smile that could light up the darkest of days, Lane had a rare gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether you knew him as a son, brother, teammate, classmate, or friend, Lane left a lasting impression that won’t soon be forgotten.

A student at Holton High School, Lane was known for his passionate approach to life. He was involved in numerous school activities and sports, where his dedication and sportsmanship shone. Whether on the football field, basketball court, or track, Lane brought determination, heart, and team spirit to every endeavor. His coaches and teammates often spoke of his leadership, unselfish play, and relentless effort—qualities that defined him far beyond athletics.

Academically, Lane was a bright student who brought curiosity and insight into every classroom. Teachers admired his respect for others and his eagerness to learn, while his peers appreciated his sense of humor and the ease with which he made everyone feel welcome. He had a natural ability to bring people together—often bridging gaps and building friendships where others saw differences.

Beyond his achievements, Lane was a deeply caring and compassionate young man. He loved spending time with his family—his bond with his parents, Ben and Shelby, was one of deep love and mutual respect. Lane was the kind of son who shared both the big dreams and the little moments, whether it was late-night talks, family dinners, or weekend adventures. He often credited his parents as his role models and biggest supporters.

Lane’s connection with his extended family was equally strong. He was a loving grandson, cousin, and nephew, and his presence at family gatherings brought laughter, energy, and joy. With a mischievous grin and quick wit, he had a way of keeping spirits high and making memories that will be treasured forever.

Lane also had a special group of friends who meant the world to him. Together, they shared countless memories—late-night drives, bonfires, school dances, and spontaneous adventures that captured the beauty of youth. To his friends, Lane was more than a companion; he was a confidant, a motivator, and a source of unwavering support. He made life richer for those lucky enough to be part of his world.

A lover of music, the outdoors, and his community, Lane embraced life with a maturity beyond his years. Whether he was playing his favorite songs, helping a neighbor, volunteering at school events, or enjoying Kansas sunsets, he lived with a sense of gratitude and wonder. He had dreams—big dreams—about his future, and though his time on earth was far too short, the impact he made was deep and enduring.

The Holton community mourns the loss of a young man who embodied the very best of what it means to be kind, passionate, and full of promise. In the days ahead, Lane’s memory will continue to inspire those who knew him to live with more love, more laughter, and more intention.

Lane is survived by his loving parents, Benjamin and Shelby Pruett, as well as a wide circle of family and friends who will carry his memory forward with love and honor. His life, though brief, was filled with meaning, and the legacy he leaves behind is one of compassion, resilience, and light.

A celebration of Lane’s life will be held in the coming days, where stories will be shared, tears will be shed, and laughter will ring out in tribute to the extraordinary boy who made the world a better place.

Though Lane has left this world, the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the light he brought will never fade.

Rest in peace, Lane. You are deeply missed and forever remembered.

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South Elgin, Illinois

Dean Breen passed away far too soon at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those he cherished most. A pillar of strength and a beacon of kindness, Dean touched the lives of many through his quiet generosity, sincere heart, and steadfast presence.

A devoted husband to Amy and a loving father to Rylan and Emmet, Dean’s life revolved around the joy and wellbeing of his family. He was the kind of man who showed up—not just in grand gestures, but in everyday moments. Whether it was coaching a game, helping with school projects, or simply being there to listen, Dean made sure his family always felt loved, valued, and safe. His love was not loud, but constant; not boastful, but deeply felt. His greatest pride was in the life he built with Amy and the children they raised together.

Dean’s warmth extended beyond the walls of his home. In South Elgin and the surrounding community, he was known for his reliability, integrity, and friendly spirit. Whether helping a neighbor or offering a word of encouragement, Dean had a way of making people feel seen and supported. Friends often described him as the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back without hesitation. His calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to life earned the respect and affection of many.

Professionally, Dean was hardworking and dependable, respected by colleagues and coworkers for his diligence and humility. But no matter the demands of his work, family always came first. He believed in living a life of purpose and presence, and he passed that wisdom along to his children through example.

Dean’s absence is deeply felt—not only by Amy, Rylan, and Emmet, but by all who were fortunate enough to know him. The journey ahead for his family will be challenging, as they face life without the steady presence of a man who was so central to their world. Still, the values he lived by—kindness, loyalty, love, and strength—will remain a guiding light for those who continue on in his memory.

As we grieve this immense loss, we ask for your thoughts and prayers for Dean’s family. In this time of sorrow, may we find comfort in remembering the fullness of Dean’s life and the deep imprint he left on our hearts. Though he is no longer with us, Dean’s spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the love he so freely gave.

Rest in peace, Dean Breen. You are loved, missed, and remembered always.

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Philadelphia Mourns the Loss of Francis Davis, Towering Voice in Jazz Criticism

PHILADELPHIA — Francis Davis, the razor-sharp, eloquent, and deeply perceptive cultural critic whose writings shaped the contours of jazz journalism and beyond for more than four decades, died on Monday at his home in Philadelphia. He was 78.

The cause was complications from emphysema and Parkinson’s disease, according to his wife, Terry Gross, the renowned host and co-executive producer of Fresh Air on NPR. His death marks the end of an era for American cultural commentary, particularly in the realm of jazz, where his voice was one of uncommon clarity, insight, and wit.

Davis’s career was defined by a restless intellect and a passion for musical excellence, social context, and historical sweep. In a field where fandom can often cloud judgment, Davis brought a critic’s cool eye — but never a cold one. His love for the music was evident in every phrase, whether he was deconstructing the avant-garde abstractions of Ornette Coleman, tracing the gospel undertones in Aretha Franklin’s work, or unpacking the radical cool of Miles Davis.

Born in 1946 in Philadelphia, a city steeped in rich musical tradition, Davis came of age during a transformative period in American music and culture. He began his career writing for The Philadelphia Inquirer, before contributing to an impressive roster of publications, including The Atlantic, The Village Voice, The New York Times, and Rolling Stone. His work married journalistic rigor with poetic sensibility, and his essays often extended beyond jazz to explore the intersections of music, politics, race, and American identity.

Davis published several influential books, including Outcats: Jazz Composers, Instrumentalists, and Singers, The History of the Blues, and Jazz and Its Discontents: A Francis Davis Reader. Each volume offered a master class in musical understanding, rendered in prose that managed to be both erudite and approachable. His writing was never insulated in academic jargon; instead, it resonated with the cadences of the music he loved — precise, swinging, and sometimes daringly improvisational.

Perhaps most notably, Davis served for years as the jazz critic for The Village Voice, and later as a regular contributor to The Atlantic, where his long-form essays helped readers not just understand jazz but feel its significance. His sharp observations — often laced with dry humor or gentle skepticism — challenged readers to think critically about art, artists, and the times in which they lived.

A frequent guest on Fresh Air, Davis also shared a unique personal and professional partnership with Terry Gross, his wife of many years. The two represented a rare pairing in American media — a shared commitment to thoughtful cultural inquiry, rigorously pursued yet warmly conveyed.

Despite declining health in recent years, Davis remained intellectually engaged, continuing to write and correspond with fellow critics, musicians, and fans. His annual jazz critics poll, which he founded and oversaw for years, became one of the most respected barometers of taste and trend in the jazz world.

Those who knew Davis personally describe him as witty, generous, and fiercely intelligent. He was a mentor to many younger writers, always encouraging intellectual honesty and precision in a field that often sways with sentiment.

Davis’s passing leaves a void not easily filled. In an age when journalism has often tilted toward the immediate and ephemeral, he stood as a champion of depth, clarity, and conviction. He reminded readers that music is not just entertainment, but expression — of joy, of pain, of community, of resistance. Through his words, jazz was not merely preserved but animated, as alive on the page as in performance.

He is survived by Gross, and by legions of readers and listeners who came to know the music — and themselves — more deeply through his work.

As tributes pour in from across the musical and literary worlds, one thing is clear: Francis Davis did not just chronicle the art form. He elevated it. And in doing so, he became a part of it.

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A Promising Life Cut Short

Marina was known for her vibrant spirit, love for animals, and deep commitment to science. Friends and colleagues remember her as a bright and compassionate individual who brought warmth to every room she entered. Her fiancé’s coworkers described her as “really vibrant” and someone who “loved dogs” . Her untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her.

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The Tragic Incident

The sequence of events began around 3:50 p.m. when Newark Police located an unreturned U-Haul van parked in a shopping center on the 200 block of East Main Street. The vehicle had been due back on March 18 and was reported for unauthorized use. At approximately 4:34 p.m., Gordon Turner, 22, of New Castle, Delaware, and a passenger returned to the van. As officers approached, Turner allegedly drove over a curb, struck a police vehicle, and fled onto East Main Street at high speed. Police did not pursue the vehicle but remained in the shopping center .

Turner lost control of the van near Haines Street, striking two pedestrians—Marina and another 24-year-old graduate student. The van then collided with several parked cars, including vehicles occupied by multiple individuals. A chain reaction caused one of the parked vehicles to strike a third pedestrian . Marina was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other victims sustained various injuries.

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Legal Proceedings and Charges

Gordon Turner was apprehended after receiving medical evaluation and is now facing multiple charges, including:

• Second-degree murder
• Felony murder
• First-degree felony assault
• Disregarding a police officer’s signal
• Possession of marijuana exceeding personal use quantity

Investigations revealed that Turner was a fugitive wanted in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. In Maryland, a warrant had been issued for his arrest in February 2025 after he failed to appear in court for an illegal gun possession case to which he had pleaded guilty . He is currently held on a $305,500 cash bond .

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Community Response and Memorials

The University of Delaware community is mourning the loss of Marina. Vice President for Student Life José-Luis Riera expressed the collective grief, stating, “Our community is hurting” . University President Dennis Assanis also conveyed condolences, emphasizing the tragedy’s impact on students, faculty, and staff .

A memorial has been established at the crash site, adorned with flowers and signs advocating for increased pedestrian safety. Messages like “Raise the crosswalks. No need for speed” reflect the community’s call for action to prevent future tragedies .

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A Call for Justice and Change

Marina’s death has ignited conversations about pedestrian safety and law enforcement protocols in Newark. As the community grieves, there is a collective demand for justice and measures to ensure such incidents do not recur. Marina’s legacy as a passionate scientist and compassionate individual will continue to inspire those who knew her.

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For those with information related to the incident, please contact Cpl. Jon Lee at (302) 366-7100 ext. 3462

 

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NEW IBERIA, La. — A wave of grief and uncertainty has swept through the New Iberia community following a fatal police-involved shooting that left 30-year-old Justin Rhine dead on Wednesday evening. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. near the intersection of Ann Street and Buckeye Street, a typically quiet residential area now at the center of a growing state investigation.

According to initial reports, local law enforcement responded to a situation involving Rhine, though the specific circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. Shortly after the incident, Louisiana State Police (LSP) assumed control of the investigation, which is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings in Louisiana. The LSP Bureau of Investigations is now working to piece together a full timeline of events, interviewing witnesses, collecting body camera footage, and examining forensic evidence from the scene.

Authorities have yet to release many details about what prompted the encounter or whether Rhine was armed at the time. Eyewitnesses from the neighborhood report hearing several gunshots, followed by a heavy police presence and emergency medical responders. One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, described seeing officers perform CPR on Rhine before he was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

“This is a tragedy. Our community is in pain, and we are demanding transparency,” said local activist and community leader Darnell Broussard. “We need to know what happened and why it ended in the loss of a young man’s life.”

In the hours following the shooting, members of the community gathered near the scene, lighting candles and placing flowers to honor Rhine’s memory. Social media has also been flooded with messages of condolences and calls for justice under the hashtag #JusticeForJustin. Friends and family describe Rhine as a father, a son, and a friend who was striving to turn his life around.

The New Iberia Police Department has referred all questions to the Louisiana State Police, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. “We are cooperating fully with state investigators,” said a brief statement released by the department Thursday morning. “We ask for patience as the facts are gathered and evaluated.”

This incident comes amid ongoing national scrutiny over police use of force, especially in cases involving Black and marginalized communities. Civil rights organizations, including the ACLU of Louisiana, have already signaled their intent to monitor the investigation closely and ensure accountability if any wrongdoing is uncovered.

As the investigation progresses, the State Police are expected to release further updates, including findings from the preliminary autopsy and results of any ballistic or toxicology testing. Body camera footage, if available, could prove crucial in understanding the dynamics of the encounter and determining whether departmental policies were followed.

In the meantime, the New Iberia community is left to mourn and grapple with yet another instance of fatal police violence. A vigil is scheduled for Saturday evening at a local park, where family members and supporters are expected to gather in remembrance of Justin Rhine and to call for justice and transparency.

The tragedy has once again underscored the fragile relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. For many in New Iberia, the shooting has reignited painful memories of past incidents and highlighted the urgent need for reform, oversight, and accountability in policing practices across the state.

As Louisiana State Police continue their investigation, all eyes will be on the official findings—and whether they lead to clarity, accountability, and ultimately, healing for a community in crisis.

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