Category: Uncategorized

  • Shock and Sorrow at Kings Mountain: Remembering Willy Carmona

    Shock and Sorrow at Kings Mountain: Remembering Willy Carmona

     

    The floor of the Kings Mountain plant fell into silence the moment Willy Carmona collapsed. A seasoned worker and devoted father, Carmona, 67, had been a constant presence at the facility—his hard hat and steady hands a familiar sight to everyone on the floor. But during what seemed like an ordinary shift, something went terribly wrong. As coworkers moved through their tasks, a sudden commotion erupted. When they looked toward the noise, they saw him on the ground—unmoving.

    At first, disbelief. Workers froze, their tools slipping from their hands. No one could comprehend what they were seeing. Carmona wasn’t just a colleague—he was family. For many of them, he was a mentor, a friend, the man who never missed a day and always asked how your weekend was. The shock of seeing him collapsed, lifeless, sent waves of fear and sadness across the plant.

    Emergency crews arrived within minutes, rushing to his side with the urgency only such moments demand. But despite their best efforts, it was already too late. Willy Carmona was gone.

    The air turned heavy. Silence took over, broken only by the sobs of coworkers who had watched helplessly as a man they admired slipped away in front of them. A company chaplain was brought in to comfort the grief-stricken team. Many couldn’t find words; others could only whisper disbelief. Some stood quietly in groups, holding onto each other for strength in a moment that left them hollow and stunned.

    The tragedy has sparked an immediate investigation. Authorities are combing through every detail of the facility—equipment logs, safety protocols, environmental conditions—to understand exactly what happened. No stone will be left unturned. The goal is clear: to find the truth and prevent such a devastating event from ever repeating itself.

    Willy Carmona’s death has left more than a gap in the workflow—it has left a scar on the hearts of those who knew him. He wasn’t just a name on a roster; he was a human being who brought kindness, dedication, and warmth to a job that demands so much from the people who do it.

    Outside the plant, his family now faces a world without the man who meant everything to them. A father whose pride came not from accolades but from doing honest work and taking care of the people he loved. Our deepest condolences go out to his family during this unimaginable time.

    As the Kings Mountain community mourns, there is a shared hope that something meaningful can rise from the pain—a renewed commitment to safety, to each other, and to remembering that behind every shift is a life that matters. Today, we remember Willy Carmona, not only for how he died, but for how he lived—with dignity, humility, and heart.

    May he rest in peace.

  • In Loving Memory of Willy Victor Carmona

    In Loving Memory of Willy Victor Carmona

     

    It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we remember the life of Willy Victor Carmona, a devoted family man, friend, and respected member of the Kings Mountain community, who tragically passed away following a workplace accident at NVR Building Products. He was 67 years old.

    Willy’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves through those who knew and loved him, as well as throughout the broader community. A man known for his work ethic, warmth, and generosity, Willy was more than just a dedicated employee—he was a father, a grandfather, a neighbor, and a friend. His presence brought light and strength to those around him, and his loss leaves behind a void that words alone cannot fill.

    The accident, which occurred during routine operations at the manufacturing facility, is currently under investigation by workplace safety officials. While the specifics of the incident are still being reviewed, the tragedy has already spurred important and necessary conversations about safety protocols and practices in industrial environments—not just at NVR Building Products, but across the manufacturing sector at large.

    As communities across North Carolina reflect on this devastating event, Willy’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the need for diligence, regulation, and accountability in maintaining workplace safety. No one should have to leave for work and never come home. Tragedies like this compel us to reevaluate systems, training, and standards to better protect workers and ensure that such heartbreaking accidents become a thing of the past.

    But beyond the safety discussions and industry implications, this is a personal, human loss. Willy was someone’s father. Someone’s brother. Someone’s friend. He had plans, stories to tell, laughter yet to share. He had earned the respect of his peers through years of hard work and dedication and was admired for his unwavering reliability and humble demeanor.

    To his family and loved ones: the community of Kings Mountain stands with you. In the midst of grief, know that you are not alone. The collective thoughts and prayers of friends, neighbors, and coworkers are with you, offering strength and solidarity in these painful days.

    We honor Willy Victor Carmona not only by mourning his loss but also by celebrating the life he lived. A life of perseverance, love, and integrity. Let us remember him in the small moments—in the sounds of machines humming, in the breakroom conversations, in the drive home after a long shift. Let us remember him by striving to make our workplaces safer and our communities more connected.

    May his memory be a blessing, and may his story inspire action, compassion, and change.

  • Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office  Update: Homicide Investigation – Oshtemo Township

    Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office Update: Homicide Investigation – Oshtemo Township

    The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update regarding a tragic and ongoing homicide investigation following a deadly shooting that occurred on the evening of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Oshtemo Township. Deputies responded to the Canterberry Apartments located in the 5000 block of Canterbury Lane after receiving 911 calls reporting the sound of a single gunshot.

    Upon arrival at the scene, deputies discovered an unresponsive male victim inside one of the apartment buildings. The individual was later identified as Dequevion Markuise Brown, a 29-year-old resident of Kalamazoo. Emergency medical services and law enforcement personnel rendered immediate life-saving aid. Despite these efforts, Mr. Brown was tragically pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital.

    An individual who was initially detained near the scene was interviewed by investigators and has since been released. After thorough questioning and review of evidence, that person has been eliminated as a suspect in the case.

    This is an active and ongoing investigation, and detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division are working diligently to gather information, analyze evidence, and follow leads. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and no arrests have been made at this time.

    The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in solving this case. Anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the incident, or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, is urged to come forward. Witnesses and individuals with information can contact the Criminal Investigations Division directly at 269-383-8749.

    Additionally, those who prefer to remain anonymous can provide tips through Silent Observer, a confidential crime reporting platform that plays a vital role in community policing efforts.

    Statement from the Sheriff’s Office:

    “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Dequevion Brown. The senseless nature of this loss is felt not only by his immediate circle but across our entire community. We are committed to seeking justice for Mr. Brown and will utilize every available resource to identify and apprehend those responsible.”

    As law enforcement continues to work this case, the Sheriff’s Office is also urging the community to remain vigilant, cooperative, and united. Gun violence leaves a lasting scar, and in times like these, community engagement and support are critical to helping bring closure to grieving families and maintaining public safety.

  • Texas Mother Alandria Sebron Arrested Over Broken Bones in Baby — Family Claims Medical Misdiagnosis, Not Abuse

    Texas Mother Alandria Sebron Arrested Over Broken Bones in Baby — Family Claims Medical Misdiagnosis, Not Abuse

    Texas Mother Alandria Sebron Arrested Over Broken Bones in Baby — Family Claims Medical Misdiagnosis, Not Abuse

    In a deeply troubling and increasingly controversial case out of Texas, a mother named Alandria Sebron was arrested after doctors reported her infant daughter, Jirah, showed signs of multiple broken bones. The case quickly drew the attention of child protective services (CPS), leading to the infant being taken from her parents’ custody and Alandria facing criminal charges. But the family insists this is a tragic misunderstanding rooted not in abuse — but in a rare medical condition.

    A Shocking Diagnosis Leads to Arrest

    The situation began when Alandria and her husband took their baby girl, Jirah, to the hospital after noticing she appeared to be in pain. Medical examinations revealed multiple fractures, prompting doctors to suspect physical abuse. Following standard protocol in such situations, the hospital alerted authorities.

    Soon after, CPS intervened. The infant was placed in protective custody, and Alandria Sebron was arrested, charged in court with child abuse — a traumatic turn of events for any parent. However, the Sebrons would soon uncover evidence that would shift the narrative.

    Rickets: A Misunderstood Disease

    Determined to prove their innocence, the Sebron family sought out additional medical evaluations. They consulted experts who concluded that baby Jirah suffers from rickets, a bone-weakening disease caused by a severe deficiency in vitamin D. In infants, this condition can lead to bone pain, delayed growth, and, crucially, fractures that may appear suspicious to the untrained eye — or even to experienced physicians unfamiliar with pediatric metabolic bone diseases.

    According to the Sebrons, Jirah’s fractures were the result of her illness, not mistreatment. They provided medical documentation to the court, which acknowledged the diagnosis and the possibility that the broken bones could be consistent with rickets rather than physical abuse. As a result, Jirah was returned to her parents’ care.

    The Emotional and Legal Aftermath

    Although their daughter is now back home, the Sebrons’ legal ordeal is far from over. Alandria still faces criminal charges. “They accused me of something I didn’t do,” she said in a public statement. “I was just trying to take care of my baby.”

    Now, the Sebrons are speaking out — not just to clear their names, but to shine a light on what they call a case of “medical kidnapping.” This controversial term is used by some families and advocacy groups to describe instances where children are removed from their parents based on medical misunderstandings or misdiagnoses.

    A Growing Controversy in the U.S.

    The Sebron case is not isolated. Across the United States, families have come forward with similar stories — children removed from their homes due to medical conditions that mimic abuse symptoms. Some doctors and legal experts warn that overzealous responses can tear apart innocent families, especially when cultural or socioeconomic factors lead to miscommunication between caregivers and medical professionals.

    Critics of the system argue that once abuse is suspected, the presumption of innocence for parents can quickly erode. “When a child shows unexplained injuries, it’s absolutely right for doctors and CPS to investigate,” said one pediatrician. “But we need to be equally thorough in ruling out medical causes. Rickets, brittle bone disease, and other conditions can be easily overlooked.”

    The Fight for Justice

    For Alandria Sebron, the fight is not just about clearing her name — it’s about preventing other families from experiencing the same nightmare. The Sebrons are calling for reforms in how child abuse investigations are handled when rare or misunderstood medical conditions may be at play. They hope their story will inspire greater awareness, more education for medical professionals, and a more compassionate approach from the legal system.

    “This shouldn’t happen to another family,” Alandria said. “My daughter needed help. Instead, they took her from us.”

    As the legal process continues, the Sebrons remain united, determined to prove their innocence and ensure that baby Jirah grows up safe, healthy — and surrounded by the family that loves her.

  • Chicago Man ‘Big Johnno’ Charged with Murder After Fatal Gas Station Shooting Sparked by Girlfriend’s Conversation; Authorities Also Uncover Suspected Drug Activity

    Chicago Man ‘Big Johnno’ Charged with Murder After Fatal Gas Station Shooting Sparked by Girlfriend’s Conversation; Authorities Also Uncover Suspected Drug Activity

    On May 14, 2025, 41-year-old Jonathan Robinson, known by the nickname “Big Johnno,” was arrested and charged with first-degree murder following a fatal shooting at a gas station in Chicago. The incident reportedly stemmed from a brief conversation between the victim and Robinson’s girlfriend, Jernera Williams. In addition to the murder charge, Robinson faces a separate felony charge for the unlawful manufacture or delivery of cannabis in an amount between 30 and 500 grams, suggesting potential distribution activities.

    The Incident

    According to preliminary police reports and witness statements, the victim, whose identity has not been publicly released pending family notification, engaged in a short, non-confrontational conversation with Jernera Williams at a gas station pump. Moments later, Robinson, who was nearby, approached the scene visibly enraged. An argument quickly ensued between the two men, during which Robinson allegedly accused the victim of disrespecting his relationship. The situation escalated when Robinson allegedly drew a firearm and shot the victim at close range. Emergency responders arrived promptly but were unable to save the victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Arrest and Charges

    Following the shooting, Robinson fled the scene but was apprehended by Chicago Police Department officers in the South Shore neighborhood days later. Upon searching his residence and vehicle, authorities reportedly discovered a quantity of cannabis consistent with distribution, leading to the additional felony charge. Robinson is currently being held without bond as he awaits arraignment. Prosecutors have indicated their intent to pursue the murder charge vigorously, citing the unprovoked nature of the crime and its blatant disregard for human life.

    Community Response

    The incident has sparked outrage and renewed concerns over impulsive acts of violence in public spaces, particularly those fueled by jealousy or toxic relationships. Community members and local leaders are advocating for increased awareness around conflict resolution and mental health support to prevent similar tragedies. A South Shore activist commented, “Taking someone’s life because they spoke to your partner is not only tragic, it’s senseless. This is not about self-defense. This is about insecurity and violence, and it has no place in our city.”

    Ongoing Investigation

    The Chicago Police Department continues to investigate the case, reviewing surveillance footage from the gas station and gathering additional witness accounts. Officials have not confirmed whether Jernera Williams will face any charges or if she has been officially questioned as part of the investigation. The murder weapon has not yet been recovered, and authorities are seeking public assistance in locating it.

    Call for Information

    Anyone with information about the shooting, Robinson’s movements before or after the incident, or the whereabouts of the firearm is urged to contact Chicago Police Department detectives or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers. This case underscores the broader issue of interpersonal disputes escalating into deadly violence, a concern that city officials are actively working to address.

    As the legal proceedings continue, further updates will be provided on the progress of the case and any additional developments.

  • MARION, OH — Tragedy Strikes Marengo as Morrow County Deputy Killed in Line of Duty on Memorial Day

    MARION, OH — Tragedy Strikes Marengo as Morrow County Deputy Killed in Line of Duty on Memorial Day

     

    A wave of sorrow swept through Morrow County and the broader Ohio community this Memorial Day after a devastating incident claimed the life of one of its own. Deputy Daniel Sherrer, a 31-year-old officer with the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, was shot and killed Monday evening while responding to a domestic violence call at a residence in the rural outskirts of Marengo, located along County Road 26.

    According to preliminary reports released by law enforcement, Deputy Sherrer was dispatched to the scene at approximately 5:40 p.m. after neighbors reported a disturbance involving potential domestic abuse. Upon arriving at the residence, Sherrer encountered the suspect, later identified as Brian Michael Wilson, 53, of Marengo. The situation quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.

    During the encounter, Wilson allegedly opened fire on the deputy, striking him multiple times. Despite the swift response from backup units and emergency medical personnel, Sherrer succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The loss marked a somber and deeply emotional turn for a community already reflective on Memorial Day—a day meant to honor those who serve and sacrifice for the greater good.

    The suspect, Wilson, was taken into custody following a tense standoff with law enforcement. Authorities confirmed that he was apprehended without further incident and is currently being held at the Morrow County Jail. Charges are pending, and the investigation remains ongoing, with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) taking the lead in examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

    Sheriff John Hinton, visibly shaken during a press conference held late Monday evening, called Deputy Sherrer “a dedicated and brave public servant” who had been with the department for over five years. “Daniel always led with compassion and courage,” Hinton said. “He was the kind of deputy every sheriff hopes to have on their team—a protector of peace, a man of integrity, and a friend to many.”

    Deputy Sherrer leaves behind a young family, including a wife and two small children. His tragic death has prompted an outpouring of grief and solidarity from both local residents and law enforcement agencies across Ohio and beyond. Blue ribbons adorned the trees in downtown Marion by Tuesday morning, and impromptu memorials have begun to appear outside the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office.

    Governor Mike DeWine issued a statement offering his condolences and ordering flags to be flown at half-staff across the state in honor of Deputy Sherrer. “Ohio mourns the loss of a courageous law enforcement officer who gave his life in service to others. We extend our prayers to his family, his colleagues, and the entire Morrow County community,” DeWine said.

    Community leaders are organizing a candlelight vigil and a formal memorial service to be held later this week. Fellow deputies described Sherrer as a devoted officer who treated every call, no matter how routine, with professionalism and a heartfelt commitment to keeping people safe.

    The tragedy has reignited conversations about the risks faced daily by law enforcement officers, particularly in responding to volatile domestic situations—scenarios widely acknowledged as among the most dangerous for police. Domestic disturbance calls are unpredictable and often escalate in moments, leaving officers vulnerable to sudden violence.

    As the investigation continues, Morrow County stands united in mourning and remembrance, honoring the life of a man who gave everything in the service of his community. In the words of Sheriff Hinton, “Daniel’s badge number may be retired, but his legacy of bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

    Deputy Daniel Sherrer will be laid to rest with full honors, surrounded by family, friends, and a grateful community whose hearts are heavy with loss but full of appreciation for his ultimate sacrifice.

  • South Shore Mourns Beloved Community Member Donnell Patton, 40, Fatally Shot in Gas Station Altercation; Suspect Charged with First-Degree Murder

    South Shore Mourns Beloved Community Member Donnell Patton, 40, Fatally Shot in Gas Station Altercation; Suspect Charged with First-Degree Murder

    The South Shore community in Chicago is mourning the tragic loss of 40-year-old Donnell L. Patton, who was fatally shot during an altercation at a BP gas station on May 14, 2025. The incident occurred around 1:15 a.m. in the 7400 block of South Stony Island Avenue. According to Chicago police and the Cook County medical examiner’s office, Patton was involved in a dispute with another individual when he was shot multiple times and pronounced dead at the scene .

    The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Jonathan Robinson, allegedly fled the scene in a white vehicle. He has since been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting .

    Donnell Patton was known in his neighborhood for his easygoing nature and was a well-liked figure in the South Shore community. His sudden passing has left a profound impact on those who knew him. As friends and family come to terms with this unexpected loss, many are reflecting on the importance of resolving disagreements peacefully. Donnell’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

    A memorial service for Donnell Patton is being planned by his family, with details to be announced in the coming days. Community members are encouraged to attend and pay their respects to a man whose life was tragically cut short.

  • It is with heavy hearts to announce the passing of Ron Broomhead, the founder of Broomhead Funeral Home.

    It is with heavy hearts to announce the passing of Ron Broomhead, the founder of Broomhead Funeral Home.

    It is with heavy hearts but deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Ronald “Ron” Lamont Broomhead on May 25, 2025, in Riverton, Utah. Born on June 25, 1943, in Murray, Utah, to Rulon T. Broomhead and Alice Tolman. Ron’s life was one of service, dedication, and deep love for his family, community, and faith.

    A graduate of American Fork High School in 1961, Ron pursued a career in funeral services and became a licensed funeral director after graduating in 1967 from California College of Mortuary School. He married Ethel LaRae Rollins on September 19, 1969, in the Salt Lake Temple. For 58 years, Ron served the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding areas, providing compassionate care during life’s most difficult moments. In 1987, Ron founded Broomhead Funeral Home in Riverton, Utah, where he continued his work, earning the trust and respect of the communities he served.

    Ron was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He proudly served a mission to the Navajo Reservation, where he not only lived in a traditional hogan but also learned to speak fluent Navajo—a skill he cherished until his passing. Ron was also fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), an ability that helped him connect with individuals of all backgrounds.

    A lover of the outdoors, Ron found joy in spending time in nature—whether it was camping, fishing, or tending to his beloved yard and animals. He was an active member of the Utah Pheasant Society and found peace in working with his birds. His love of the outdoors was only rivaled by his love for his family, who were always his first priority.

    Ron’s faith and service extended far beyond his professional life. He held numerous callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints over the years and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His contributions to the Riverton and surrounding communities, both through his work and through personal service, leave a lasting legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

    Ron was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife LaRae, children Laura, Aaron (Janika), Marinda (Cory), and Seth; grandchildren Cedar, Andre (Larissa), Aubrah (Dylan), Lexi (Corey), Payton (Kirsten), Avery (Dylan), Tavian, Xavier, Ryker, Quincy, Gentry, and Aria, and two great grandchildren Eva and Luke; sister Taunya (Steve) Robbins and brother Ric Alexander who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Jaren, brother Alden, sisters Thelma and Nancy, son-in-law Caesar and many extended family members and friends leaving behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and service to all who knew him.

    A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Broomhead Funeral Home (12600 So. 2200 W., Riverton, UT) the funeral will be the following day Monday, June 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1409 W. 9800 So. South Jordan, UT) with interment immediately after at Riverton City Cemetery (1500 W. 13200 So., Riverton, UT).

    The family sends a special thank you to Canyon Hospice and Riverton Beehive Home for the loving care they provided.

    Ron’s passing marks the end of a remarkable journey, but his impact will continue to be felt by the countless lives he touched. His commitment to his faith, his family, and his community will forever be remembered.

  • In Loving Memory of Dr. Yvette Murphy-Erby

    In Loving Memory of Dr. Yvette Murphy-Erby

    In Loving Memory of Dr. Yvette Murphy-Erby
    A Champion of Justice, Healing, and Inclusion

    Dr. Yvette Murphy-Erby was more than an academic. She was a visionary, a relentless advocate, and a force of nature whose influence extended far beyond the boundaries of any classroom or institution. Her sudden passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, students, and the many communities she served—but her legacy will endure, etched into the very fabric of the progress she helped inspire.

    Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Murphy-Erby stood at the intersection of scholarship and service, committed to dismantling barriers and building inclusive communities rooted in equity and understanding. Her life’s work was centered on justice—not simply as a theoretical ideal, but as a lived reality she championed every day through her teaching, leadership, and activism.

    Whether she was mentoring a first-generation college student, speaking truth to power in institutional spaces, or leading groundbreaking initiatives aimed at systemic change, Dr. Murphy-Erby brought a rare combination of intellect, empathy, and fearless determination. She believed deeply in the healing power of community, and she worked tirelessly to ensure that every voice, especially those on the margins, was heard and valued.

    Those who had the privilege of knowing Dr. Murphy-Erby will remember her radiant presence: a brilliant mind coupled with a kind heart. She could command a room with her conviction and bring warmth to even the most challenging conversations. She was both a strategist and a nurturer, someone who held space for grief, joy, rage, and hope—and helped others find their power within those emotions.

    Her colleagues admired her not only for her academic rigor, but for her authenticity and unwavering commitment to justice. Her students saw in her a mentor who believed in their potential, who challenged them to think critically and live courageously. Community members knew her as a trusted leader who listened, acted, and never gave up on the promise of a better, more inclusive world.

    Dr. Murphy-Erby’s legacy is not only in the institutions she helped transform or the policies she influenced—it lives on in the people she empowered, the conversations she sparked, and the healing she fostered in spaces often marked by pain and division.

    As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary life and the light she brought to this world. Let us honor her by continuing the work she so passionately pursued—by challenging injustice, lifting others as we climb, and committing ourselves to the shared vision of a world where everyone belongs.

    May the memory of Dr. Yvette Murphy-Erby forever be a blessing, a guide, and a call to action.

    Rest in power, Dr. Murphy-Erby. Your spirit lives on in all of us.

  • Chaos at Brass Mill Center: Multiple Injured in Waterbury Mall Shooting, Police Launch Manhunt for Suspects

    Chaos at Brass Mill Center: Multiple Injured in Waterbury Mall Shooting, Police Launch Manhunt for Suspects

    WATERBURY, Conn. – A routine afternoon at the Brass Mill Center turned into a scene of panic and chaos on Tuesday after a shooting incident left multiple individuals injured, prompting a large-scale emergency response and sending shockwaves through the Waterbury community.

    According to Waterbury Police, the shooting occurred inside the shopping mall sometime in the early afternoon, as shoppers and employees went about their day. Authorities responded swiftly to reports of gunfire, locking down the mall and deploying a heavy police presence including tactical units, EMS personnel, and fire crews.

    Multiple individuals were reported injured, though the exact number and severity of their injuries have not been officially released. Victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment, and police said some of those hurt may have sustained gunshot wounds while others were injured in the ensuing panic as people rushed to flee the scene.

    Law enforcement officials described the situation as “active and evolving,” and the mall was immediately evacuated and secured as investigators began piecing together the events that led to the violence. As of Tuesday evening, no suspects have been publicly identified or arrested, though police said they are pursuing multiple leads and reviewing security footage from the mall and surrounding businesses.

    “We know that people are scared and looking for answers,” said Chief Fernando Spagnolo of the Waterbury Police Department during a press briefing. “This is a serious and deeply troubling incident. We are dedicating all available resources to identifying those responsible and ensuring the safety of our community.”

    Witnesses described scenes of terror inside the mall, with families and young people diving behind counters, hiding in backrooms, and sprinting for exits as the sound of gunfire echoed through the shopping center.

    “I was at the food court when I heard the shots,” said one mall employee. “It was just chaos. People were screaming, running, knocking over tables—it felt like a nightmare. I still can’t believe it happened.”

    Others reported sheltering in place for several minutes while police cleared the building and helped evacuate those still inside.

    The Brass Mill Center, one of the city’s major commercial hubs, is often busy during weekday afternoons, especially as summer approaches. The fact that a shooting could erupt in such a public space during daytime hours has left residents shaken and concerned about rising violence.

    Waterbury Mayor Neil O’Leary also spoke out following the incident, offering support to victims and their families while condemning the violence.

    “We will not tolerate this kind of violence in our city,” Mayor O’Leary said. “This is a place where families shop, where kids hang out after school. What happened today is unacceptable, and we will do everything in our power to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

    As the investigation continues, local leaders are also calling for renewed discussions on gun violence prevention, public safety, and support for trauma services. Community organizations have begun mobilizing to offer counseling and crisis support to those affected by the shooting.

    Authorities are asking anyone who was in the mall at the time of the incident or who may have video footage or information to contact the Waterbury Police Department or leave anonymous tips via Crimestoppers.

    The Brass Mill Center is expected to remain closed for at least 24 hours as investigators process the scene and ensure the building is safe for reentry.

    In the wake of this disturbing event, Waterbury stands united in grief and resilience, hoping for a swift recovery for the injured and accountability for those responsible.

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