Category: Uncategorized

​In the early hours of April 19, 2025, tragedy struck at the Buncombe County Detention Facility in Asheville, North Carolina, when 57-year-old Geneva Daniels died less than a day after being booked on a methamphetamine possession charge. According to the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office, Daniels began receiving medical treatment shortly before 6 a.m. and was transported to Mission Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. ​

The cause of Daniels’ death has not been disclosed. Authorities have notified her next of kin and initiated an investigation involving the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the District Attorney’s Office. ​

This incident adds to concerns about the conditions at the Buncombe County jail. A 2022 investigation by the Citizen Times identified it as “North Carolina’s deadliest jail” from 2008 to 2021. ​

As the SBI conducts its investigation, questions remain about the circumstances leading to Daniels’ death. The community awaits further information to understand how this tragedy occurred.​

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Geneva Daniels during this difficult time.

In the early hours of Saturday, April 19, 2025, a devastating crash occurred in Chicago’s Near North Side, resulting in the death of 40-year-old Emmanuel Carter and leaving another man critically injured. The incident took place just before 2:45 a.m. when a Chevrolet SUV, traveling eastbound on East Superior Street, lost control and crashed into The Peninsula Chicago Hotel. ​

Emergency responders arrived promptly, but Emmanuel Carter was pronounced dead at the scene. The second occupant, also a 40-year-old man, was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition. The identities of the driver and the circumstances leading to the crash are still under investigation by the Chicago Police Department’s Major Accidents Investigation Unit. ​

The sudden loss of Emmanuel Carter has left his family and friends in profound grief. Known for his vibrant spirit and deep connections within the community, Emmanuel’s passing is a significant loss to all who knew him.​

As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The community’s support and cooperation are vital in understanding the events that led to this tragic accident.​

Our thoughts and prayers are with Emmanuel Carter’s family and the critically injured individual during this difficult time.

​In the early hours of Saturday, April 19, 2025, a devastating crash occurred in Chicago’s Near North Side, resulting in the death of 40-year-old Emmanuel Carter and leaving another man critically injured. The incident took place just before 2:45 a.m. when a Chevrolet SUV, traveling eastbound on East Superior Street, lost control and crashed into The Peninsula Chicago Hotel. ​

Emergency responders arrived promptly, but Emmanuel Carter was pronounced dead at the scene. The second occupant, also a 40-year-old man, was transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition. The identities of the driver and the circumstances leading to the crash are still under investigation by the Chicago Police Department’s Major Accidents Investigation Unit. ​

The sudden loss of Emmanuel Carter has left his family and friends in profound grief. Known for his vibrant spirit and deep connections within the community, Emmanuel’s passing is a significant loss to all who knew him.​

As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The community’s support and cooperation are vital in understanding the events that led to this tragic accident.​

Our thoughts and prayers are with Emmanuel Carter’s family and the critically injured individual during this difficult time.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Amanda Lynn Civiletti, who departed this life unexpectedly on April 18, 2025, at the age of 37. Born on May 17, 1987, in Rochester, New York, Amanda was a cherished daughter, friend, and member of the community. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her.​

Amanda’s life was characterized by her dedication to family and friends. She possessed a compassionate heart, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her infectious laughter and genuine warmth created a welcoming atmosphere wherever she went.​

A visitation to honor Amanda’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Alvah Halloran & Son Funeral Home, located at 2125 Chili Avenue, Rochester, NY 14624. A Funeral Mass will follow on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at The Parish of the Holy Family, 4100 Lyell Road, Rochester, NY 14606. Amanda will be laid to rest at Holy Ghost Cemetery. ​

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Amanda’s memory to a charity of your choice, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to helping others.​

As we gather to remember Amanda, let us celebrate the joy she brought into our lives and the lasting impact of her love and kindness. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

​It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Oliver, affectionately known as Aunty Mekkie, a beloved resident of South Africa. Maria passed away suddenly shortly after arriving in Colorado, United States, where she had journeyed to reunite with her family.​

Maria’s life was a testament to kindness, resilience, and unwavering love. Her spirited personality and warm heart left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. Whether through her community involvement or the simple acts of daily kindness, Maria’s presence was a beacon of joy and comfort.​

Her sudden departure has left a void in the hearts of her family and friends, both in South Africa and abroad. As we remember Aunty Mekkie, we celebrate a life well-lived and the countless memories she gifted us.​

During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Maria’s loved ones. May her legacy of love and compassion continue to inspire all who knew her.​

​The town of Newington, Connecticut, is mourning the tragic loss of Gabriela Difo, a 17-year-old Newington High School senior, who was killed in a devastating three-car collision on Saturday morning, April 19, 2025. The crash, which occurred around 9 a.m. at the intersection of Willard Avenue and Greenlawn Avenue, also claimed the lives of her mother, Florinda Tineo, and her aunt, Jeannette Tineo .​

According to Newington police, the collision involved three vehicles and resulted in four fatalities at the scene. A fifth individual sustained minor injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Mid-State Accident Reconstruction Squad .​

Gabriela’s untimely death has deeply affected the Newington High School community. She was weeks away from graduation, and her loss is felt profoundly by classmates, teachers, and staff. The school district has announced that crisis support will be available to students and staff to help them cope with this tragedy .​

In the wake of the accident, local residents have expressed concerns about traffic safety in the area, noting that speeding has been a persistent issue on Willard Avenue. Community members are calling for increased enforcement and safety measures to prevent future tragedies .​

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact Officer Gabriella Lambros at the Newington Police Department at (860) 594-6229.​

As the community grieves, thoughts and prayers are extended to the Difo and Tineo families during this incredibly difficult time.

​It is with great sorrow and profound respect that we honor the life and legacy of Professor Gordon Jones, a visionary in the world of horse racing and education, who passed away on April 18, 2025, just four days after celebrating his 95th birthday. Widely regarded as a pioneer in speed and pace handicapping, Jones’s innovative approaches transformed the landscape of horse racing analysis and education.​

Born in 1930, Jones graduated from Whittier College, where his father served as president. He later earned a Ph.D. and held teaching positions at esteemed institutions, including the University of Southern California and Arizona State University. His academic career was marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for mentoring students, many of whom went on to make significant contributions in their respective fields.​

Jones’s influence extended beyond academia into the realm of horse racing journalism. As a turf writer and handicapper for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, he brought insightful analysis and a deep understanding of the sport to a broad audience. His best-selling book, Gordon Jones to Win (1976), introduced innovative concepts in speed and pace handicapping, laying the groundwork for modern analytical approaches in the sport. He was known for bringing his spiral notebook filled with speed figures to the track at a time when such methods were unconventional, a testament to his forward-thinking approach. ​

In addition to his writing, Jones was renowned for his engaging pre-race handicapping seminars, which attracted legions of racegoers eager to learn from his expertise. His ability to demystify complex concepts and present them in an accessible manner made him a beloved figure among both novices and seasoned bettors.​

Jones’s contributions to horse racing were not without controversy. In 1985, he was arrested on suspicion of felony bookmaking, accused of accepting bets from students at a handicapping class he conducted. Despite this setback, his reputation as a knowledgeable and passionate advocate for the sport endured.

Throughout his life, Jones remained dedicated to the advancement of horse racing analysis and education. His work laid the foundation for many of the analytical tools and methodologies used in the sport today. As we remember Professor Gordon Jones, we celebrate a life marked by innovation, education, and an unwavering passion for horse racing. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations in the field.​

​The Umpqua Community College (UCC) community is mourning the tragic loss of head softball coach Jami Lea Strinz, 46, of Roseburg, Oregon, who died following a devastating vehicle collision on April 18, 2025. The accident occurred on Highway 42 in Coos County as the UCC softball team was returning from a game in Coos Bay.​

According to Oregon State Police, a westbound Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 32-year-old Johnathan James Dowdy of Coos Bay, crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the eastbound Chevrolet Express bus operated by Coach Strinz. The bus was carrying 10 members of the UCC softball team. Coach Strinz sustained critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Freshman player Kiley Nevaeh Jones, 19, of Nampa, Idaho, was declared deceased at the scene. ​

The remaining eight passengers on the bus suffered moderate to serious injuries and received emergency medical treatment. The driver of the pickup truck also sustained serious injuries and was taken to an emergency medical center. Authorities have indicated that impaired driving is considered a primary cause of the crash, and a criminal investigation is ongoing. ​

UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt expressed the college’s grief, stating, “We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our student-athletes, Kiley Jones, and one of our coaches, Jami Strinz, lost their lives in the accident. These individuals were cherished members of our campus—an exceptional student-athlete, and a passionate and talented … .” ​

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek also shared her condolences, stating, “My heart aches for the UCC family reeling from this tragedy. Oregon is here for you in your … . You are in my prayers.” ​

Support services are being made available to all students, faculty, and staff at UCC as the community navigates this profound loss. Memorial arrangements for Coach Strinz and Kiley Jones will be announced by the college in the coming days.​

​It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance that we announce the passing of George McWilliams, a cherished resident of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and a beloved Night Building Supervisor at the Lake Anna YMCA. George departed this world, leaving behind not only his dedicated service and quiet strength but also an enduring legacy of compassion, humility, and community spirit.​

George’s commitment to his work at the Lake Anna YMCA was evident in every aspect of his role. His presence provided a sense of security and comfort to all who frequented the facility during the late hours. Beyond his professional responsibilities, George was known for his warm demeanor and willingness to lend a helping hand, embodying the true spirit of community service.​

In addition to his role at the YMCA, George contributed to the community through his work with Summit Metro Parks and as a Member Service Representative at the Riverfront Family YMCA. His dedication to public service and community engagement was unwavering, reflecting a life committed to the betterment of others.​

George’s educational journey included studies at Kent State University, where he further developed his passion for community involvement and service. His academic pursuits complemented his professional endeavors, allowing him to make meaningful contributions to the organizations he served.​

The impact of George’s life extends beyond his professional achievements. He was a mentor, a friend, and a guiding light to many. His legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting those around him.​

As we mourn the loss of George McWilliams, we also celebrate the remarkable life he led. His contributions to the Cuyahoga Falls community and beyond will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him during this difficult time.​

​It is with profound sorrow that we share the tragic passing of Rich Stone, a cherished athlete, mentor, and community leader from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Rich’s untimely death in a recent accident has left his family, friends, teammates, and the broader Fort Wayne community in deep mourning.​

Rich was more than an accomplished athlete; he was a beacon of inspiration and guidance. His dedication to mentoring young athletes and his unwavering commitment to community service made him a beloved figure in Fort Wayne. Whether on the field or off, Rich’s passion and integrity left an indelible mark on all who knew him.​

As we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate Rich’s remarkable life and legacy. His contributions to sports and his community will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stone family during this difficult time.