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In Loving Memory of Jason Swanson – A Loss Felt Across Communities

The loss prevention and security industries, along with all who had the privilege of knowing him, are mourning the heartbreaking and unexpected passing of Jason Swanson, who tragically lost his life in a car accident on April 16th, 2025.

Jason was so much more than a respected leader in his field—he was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, a loyal friend, and a deeply compassionate human being. His passing has sent shockwaves through not only his professional circles but also the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humility, and unwavering dedication.

Known throughout the industry for his strategic insight, collaborative spirit, and a calm presence under pressure, Jason built a reputation rooted not just in talent, but in trust. Colleagues described him as someone who “always had your back” and “led with heart.” Whether mentoring up-and-coming professionals, solving high-pressure challenges, or simply offering a kind word during a tough day, Jason embodied everything that makes a leader truly great.

Beyond the job, Jason’s most cherished role was that of family man. He often spoke with joy and pride about his loved ones, celebrating life’s everyday moments with them. His commitment to being present—whether coaching from the sidelines, helping with schoolwork, or enjoying a quiet evening at home—was unwavering.

His circle of friends and family now grieve the absence of a man who brought laughter, empathy, and joy into every room. Jason’s life was a testament to what it means to be genuine and to give generously of oneself without expecting anything in return.

As the days ahead bring reflection and sorrow, there’s also a deep gratitude for the time shared with him. Tributes from friends, coworkers, and community members continue to pour in—each one underscoring the profound impact Jason had during his 40 years of life.

Plans are currently underway to honor Jason’s memory with a service that allows his family, friends, and industry peers to gather, share stories, and celebrate the extraordinary man he was. A memorial fund has also been established to support his children and ensure the values Jason lived by continue to guide their future.

To his loved ones, we extend our deepest condolences and stand with you in this time of profound grief.
Jason Swanson’s light may have gone out far too soon, but his warmth, integrity, and legacy will live on.

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we share the news of the unexpected passing of Howie Doherty of Charlottetown, PE, on April 21st, 2025, at the age of 48.

Howie was more than just a name to those who knew him—he was a light, a laugh, a steady presence in the lives of his family, friends, and community. He leaves behind a profound void, especially felt by his three beloved children—Emery, Avery, and Gage—who were the center of his world. Alongside their mother, Keyshia, they are now facing a loss that words can barely begin to capture.

To many, Howie was a man of humor and heart. He had a rare ability to lift spirits with a joke, lend a hand without hesitation, and show up for the people who mattered. Whether it was a simple conversation that turned into a belly laugh or a quiet act of kindness that made a tough day easier, Howie made a lasting impression. His warmth was felt everywhere—from hockey rinks and school events to everyday chats with neighbors. His memory will live on through the countless stories shared and the love he poured into his family.

As the Charlottetown community comes to terms with this devastating loss, we hold Howie’s loved ones close. His children are not only grieving a father—they are mourning a best friend, a teacher, and a guiding light. The days ahead will be difficult, but the outpouring of support from all who were touched by Howie’s life can offer some comfort during this time of sorrow.

To those who knew and loved Howie, your memories, your prayers, and any support you can extend to his family will be deeply appreciated. Let’s come together in honoring a man who gave so much of himself to others and remind his children that their father’s spirit is carried forward in every laugh, every kind gesture, and every moment of strength.

Rest peacefully, Howie. You will never be forgotten.
#Charlottetown #InLovingMemory #HowieDoherty

Stripped of sound and surrounded by flashing lights, the wreckage of a high school team bus sat crushed along the shoulder of a darkened highway—its silence echoing the magnitude of the tragedy. What began as a routine ride home from a game turned into a nightmare that has shaken an entire community.

It was late Friday night when disaster struck. The bus, carrying ten members of a school athletics team and their coaching staff, was heading back from a game when a Chevrolet Silverado suddenly veered across the highway centerline. The collision was head-on. There was no warning. No time to swerve. No chance to avoid it.

Inside that bus were lives full of promise and purpose. Kiley Jones, a young student full of energy and potential, died at the scene—her dreams and laughter silenced in an instant. Coach Jami Strinz, a mentor, leader, and beloved figure in the community, fought through the night for her life but tragically succumbed to her injuries just hours later in the hospital.

Eight others—students and staff—were injured in the crash. Some sustained serious injuries, and all are left with trauma that will not fade quickly. Emergency crews responded swiftly, and the scene was nothing short of heartbreaking: scattered equipment, overturned seats, and the raw cries of shock and grief. Parents, teammates, and neighbors now face the unimaginable task of healing after such a profound loss.

The news has sent ripples through their school, their town, and beyond. Vigils have begun to take shape—candlelit corners of gymnasiums, locker rooms draped in ribbons, and a flood of tributes pouring in from nearby districts and strangers alike. Kiley and Coach Strinz were more than names—they were family to those who rode that bus, and now they are memories that will live in hearts forever.

The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine what caused the Silverado to cross into the wrong lane. Whether it was fatigue, distraction, or mechanical failure remains to be seen, but for the families affected, answers can never undo what’s been lost.

To the loved ones of Kiley Jones and Jami Strinz, and to the survivors left to carry this weight—we extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences. Your community stands with you. Your pain is shared. And your grief is honored. The road ahead is long, but you are not walking it alone.

May their memories be a light in this darkness.

​On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Durham, North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of three individuals following a high-speed crash that was reportedly preceded by gunfire between two vehicles.​

According to reports, the incident occurred near the intersection of Roxboro and Pacific Streets. A white Infiniti and a black Honda Accord were involved in the collision. The Infiniti, occupied by an unidentified driver and passenger Mercedes Toledo-Goss, was traveling at a high rate of speed when it collided with the Honda Accord, driven by Sandra Marie Moore. Both vehicles then struck a Lincoln Navigator, which was not involved in the initial altercation.​

Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene. Toledo-Goss and the driver of the Infiniti were ejected from their vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Sandra Marie Moore was also pronounced dead at the scene. The three occupants of the Lincoln Navigator sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Duke Medical Center for treatment. ​

Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading up to the crash, including reports of gunfire exchanged between the Infiniti and the Honda Accord prior to the collision. The Durham Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.​

This tragic event has left the Durham community in mourning, as friends and family grapple with the sudden loss of their loved ones. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the memories of Mercedes Toledo-Goss and Sandra Marie Moore, both remembered for their vibrant spirits and contributions to the community.​

As the investigation continues, the community seeks answers and justice for those affected by this heartbreaking incident.

​On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Louisiana native John Foster delivered a deeply emotional performance on American Idol, moving both the judges and viewers with his original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” The heartfelt tribute was dedicated to his late best friend, Maggie Dunn, and her friend Caroline Gill, both of whom tragically lost their lives in a car accident on New Year’s Eve in 2022.​

During the performance, Foster was visibly emotional, wiping away tears as he concluded the song. When judge Carrie Underwood inquired about the inspiration behind the piece, Foster shared that it was written in memory of Maggie and Caroline, who were both high school cheerleaders from Brusly High School. The girls were killed when a police officer, pursuing a suspect at high speed, ran a red light and collided with their vehicle. Maggie’s younger brother, who was also in the car, sustained serious injuries but survived the crash. ​

The officer involved in the incident later resigned and was charged with two counts of manslaughter, among other offenses. He was sentenced to 32 years in prison, with 22 years suspended. ​

Foster’s performance not only secured him a spot in the show’s Top 20 but also resonated deeply with audiences nationwide. Judge Carrie Underwood praised his traditional country style, stating, “There’s something so wonderfully throwback about your voice, about your style. I think it’s something that’s lacking in country music today.

The song “Tell That Angel I Love Her” stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship and the power of music to heal and honor those we’ve lost. Foster’s tribute has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, exemplifying the profound impact of personal storytelling through song.​

For those who missed the live broadcast, Foster’s moving performance is available to watch online.

The community of Sherman High School and the broader Boone County area is mourning the tragic loss of Baylea Bower, a cherished former cheerleader and beloved member of the community. Baylea’s life was cut short in a devastating car accident on April 17, 2025, near Bloomingrose, West Virginia. The accident occurred on a rural stretch of road just outside of Bloomingrose, though specific details surrounding the incident have not been publicly disclosed. ​

Baylea was known for her vibrant spirit, unwavering dedication, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her. As a former cheerleader at Sherman High School, she exemplified school pride and camaraderie, leaving a lasting impression on her peers and teachers alike. Her involvement in school activities and her commitment to excellence made her a role model for many.​

Beyond her school achievements, Baylea’s kindness and compassion extended into the community. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, participate in local events, and support her friends and neighbors. Her loss is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.​

In the wake of this tragedy, friends and family have come together to honor Baylea’s memory. Vigils and memorials are being organized, allowing the community to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a young woman who touched so many hearts. Counseling services have been made available at Sherman High School to support students and staff during this difficult time.​

As the community grapples with this profound loss, the outpouring of love and support serves as a testament to Baylea’s enduring impact. Her legacy of kindness, enthusiasm, and community spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.​

Our thoughts and prayers are with Baylea’s family, friends, and the entire Boone County community as they navigate this period of grief and remembrance.

On the evening of April 18, 2025, 39-year-old Barney Kittles Jr. was found suffering from gunshot wounds near the 600 block of 35th Street in the Southeast community of Newport News, Virginia. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. ​

Authorities have not identified any suspects or determined a motive for the shooting. The Newport News Police Department continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward.​

Barney’s death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the local community. Loved ones remember him as a cherished individual whose life was tragically cut short.​

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kittles family during this difficult time.

Four teenage students from Archie Williams High School were killed and two more critically injured when the SUV they were riding in veered off San Geronimo Valley Road and struck a tree on the evening of Friday, April 18, 2025. The girls—aged 14 to 16—were classmates and friends, making this a profound loss for a single tight‑knit peer group. Three of the students died at the scene, and a fourth succumbed to her injuries after being transported to a hospital, while the remaining two occupants remain in critical condition.   This tragedy has left every home and hallway at Archie Williams High echoing with grief, as students and staff struggle to process the sudden loss of four classmates.

Incident Overview

Shortly before 7:30 p.m., a westbound Volkswagen SUV carrying six teenage girls left the roadway on a dark stretch of San Geronimo Valley Road, about five miles northwest of Fairfax, and collided forcefully with a tree. First responders from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Marin County Sheriff’s Office arrived within minutes to find three of the occupants already deceased at the scene. The vehicle caught fire following the impact, compounding the danger and chaos at the crash site.   Paramedics rushed the fourth victim to a local hospital, where she later died, and the two surviving teens—a 15‑year‑old and the driver—were transported in critical condition to regional trauma centers.

Victims Identified

Archie Williams High School Principal Jacob Gran confirmed the identities of the four students who lost their lives: ninth grader Olive Koren, and 10th graders Josalynn Osborn, Sienna Katz, and Ada Kepley. The two survivors have been named as Elsa Laremont Stranczek and Marley Barclay, both of whom remain hospitalized in critical condition. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 16. Their families have described them as bright, kind, and full of promise—qualities that make this loss all the more devastating.

Community Response and Support

In the wake of the crash, a candlelight vigil drew hundreds of students, parents, teachers, and community members to Fairfax to mourn and offer solidarity. Tamalpais Union High School District Superintendent Tara Taupier announced grief counseling services for students and staff, recognizing the deep trauma experienced community‑wide. Local faith groups incorporated prayers into Easter services, placing flowers and lilies at the altars in memory of the victims.

Investigation Underway

The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash, examining skid marks, vehicle data, and roadway conditions to determine whether speed, mechanical failure, or other factors contributed to the SUV’s departure from the road. Authorities have appealed to anyone with dashcam footage or eyewitness accounts to come forward to aid in understanding what happened. No conclusions have been reached, and the investigation remains open.

Honoring Their Memory

To support the affected families, community members have established GoFundMe pages for each of the victims to assist with funeral expenses and related costs, and a memorial scholarship fund is being created in the names of Olive, Josalynn, Sienna, and Ada through the school district. Archie Williams High plans a Memorial Assembly where students and teachers will share stories, artwork, and music in tribute to their fallen classmates.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families of Olive, Josalynn, Sienna, and Ada, as well as to Elsa, Marley, and the entire Archie Williams High community. May they find strength in one another and in the enduring love and memories that will forever connect them.

Overview of the Incident

Late on the evening of Friday, April 18, 2025, a Volkswagen SUV carrying six teenage girls veered off San Geronimo Valley Road in rural West Marin and slammed into a tree, immediately sparking flames and chaos in what was meant to be a routine drive home from Archie Williams High School 
First responders from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Marin County Sheriff’s Office arrived within minutes to find three of the occupants already deceased at the scene and one more critically injured .
Despite urgent medical intervention, a fourth teenager succumbed to her injuries after being transported to the hospital, while the remaining two passengers, including the driver, remained in critical condition.

The Victims

All six victims were Archie Williams High School students, aged between 14 and 16 
The four girls who lost their lives have been identified as Olive Koren, Josalynn Osborn, Sienna Katz, and Ada Kepley .
The two survivors, Elsa Laremont Stranczek and Marley Barclay, were flown to regional trauma centers and are still fighting for their lives .

Community Mourning and Response

A candlelight vigil held in Fairfax on Saturday night drew hundreds, including classmates, parents, and teachers, all united in grief and solidarity .
Community leaders, including Tamalpais Union High School District Superintendent Tara Taupier, announced grief counseling services for students and staff, acknowledging the deep trauma inflicted on this tight‑knit community .
Local faith groups incorporated prayers for the victims into Easter Sunday services, with Grace Church of Marin placing six lilies at the altar in their memory .

Investigation Underway

The CHP continues to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash, examining roadway conditions, vehicle data, and potential mechanical issues .
Authorities have not ruled out factors such as speed, road design, or driver fatigue, and have appealed to anyone with surveillance footage or witness accounts to come forward .

Honoring the Young Lives Lost

To support the families, community members have set up GoFundMe pages to assist with funeral expenses and ongoing medical bills for the survivors .
A scholarship fund in the names of Olive, Josalynn, Sienna, and Ada is being established through the Tamalpais Union High School District, aiming to carry forward their legacies of kindness and ambition .
Archie Williams High has scheduled a Memorial Assembly next week, where students and teachers will share memories, artwork, and music in tribute to their fallen classmates .

Our deepest sympathy goes out to all the families and friends affected by this irreparable loss. May the unity and support of the North Bay community bring some measure of comfort in the days ahead.