Blog

MORGANTON, NC — Community Shaken After Weekend Shooting Claims One Life, Leaves Two Others Injured

MORGANTON, N.C. — A sense of grief and unease hangs heavy over Morganton following a tragic shooting over the weekend that claimed the life of 34-year-old Gregory Adonis Rutherford and left two others wounded. The incident, which unfolded late Saturday night, has not only devastated families but also reignited urgent conversations around gun violence and public safety in the small North Carolina town.

A Life Taken Too Soon

Gregory Rutherford, known affectionately as “Greg” to friends and family, was rushed to UNC Health Blue Ridge by a personal vehicle in a desperate attempt to save his life. Sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The sudden loss of a man described by loved ones as compassionate, determined, and full of life has left his family and the entire community reeling.

“Greg was the kind of person who lit up every room he walked into,” said one longtime friend. “He always had a way of making people feel seen and heard. He didn’t deserve this — none of them did.”

Rutherford was remembered not only for his warmth and loyalty but also for his resilience. Friends say he had overcome personal setbacks in the past and was actively working toward building a better life for himself and his family. His sudden death is being mourned as not only a personal tragedy but a communal one — a reminder of how quickly and senselessly lives can be lost to violence.

The Incident

According to preliminary reports, shots rang out in a neighborhood near downtown Morganton late Saturday evening. Emergency calls were made just before midnight, prompting a rapid police response. By the time authorities arrived, three individuals had been shot. One of the victims — later identified as Rutherford — had already been transported to the hospital. The other two were treated at the scene and transported by EMS with non-life-threatening injuries.

Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified. The motive remains unclear, and investigators are appealing to the public for any information that could help lead to an arrest.

“We’re doing everything we can to piece together what happened,” said a spokesperson from the Morganton Department of Public Safety. “We urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward. The community’s cooperation is essential to ensure justice is served.”

Community in Mourning

In the wake of the tragedy, a vigil is being planned in Rutherford’s honor at a local park where he was often seen spending time with friends and family. Community members have begun leaving flowers and handwritten messages at the scene of the shooting — a makeshift memorial that continues to grow by the hour.

Local clergy and mental health professionals have stepped forward to offer support to those grappling with the emotional aftermath. The loss has struck a particularly deep chord in Morganton, a town where violent crime is relatively rare and where residents pride themselves on a strong sense of community.

“Greg was a part of the fabric of Morganton,” said one community organizer. “He wasn’t just another face in the crowd. He was someone who knew people, cared about people, and contributed in quiet but meaningful ways. His death is a wound we’re all feeling.”

A Call for Action

As the investigation continues, the community is also demanding action — not just justice for Gregory Rutherford, but real, lasting change to prevent future tragedies. Advocates are calling for stronger intervention programs, better access to mental health services, and more community engagement initiatives aimed at deterring violence before it starts.

“Greg’s life mattered,” one local resident said at a community meeting. “And if his death teaches us anything, it’s that we cannot stay silent anymore. We have to do more — for Greg, for our kids, for our future.”

Ongoing Investigation

Police have asked anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the Morganton Department of Public Safety. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers, and rewards may be available for information leading to an arrest and conviction.

As Morganton tries to heal from this tragedy, one thing is clear: Gregory Rutherford’s life will not be forgotten. His family and friends are determined to keep his memory alive — not with silence, but with action, with advocacy, and with a collective vow that such a tragedy must never happen again.

Rest in peace, Gregory Adonis Rutherford. You were loved. You are missed. And your life mattered.

“Justice for D’Asia Barrow: Community Demands Answers After Young Woman’s Life Is Tragically Stolen in Act of Violence

The community is mourning the tragic and senseless loss of D’Asia Barrow, a young woman whose life was violently taken on June 2, 2025. While official details remain scarce, those who knew and loved her are speaking out, demanding justice and calling attention to the devastating circumstances surrounding her death—a story that, despite its gravity, has received little to no media coverage.

A Life Cut Short

According to individuals close to D’Asia, this tragedy appears to be a case of domestic violence. Although she had reportedly ended the relationship more than three years ago, the man she once knew allegedly returned and committed the unthinkable—robbing D’Asia of her future, her family of their beloved daughter and sister, and her friends of a radiant presence who brought joy wherever she went.

A Community Demands Justice

The alleged perpetrator is now on the run, leaving loved ones desperate for justice and answers. The lack of media attention has added another layer of pain for those who mourn her, making them feel as though her life—and her death—are being overlooked.

D’Asia was so much more than a victim. She was a beautiful soul, known for her kindness, intelligence, and strength. She had dreams, she had a future, and she had people who loved her deeply. To them, she was a light in their lives—a source of warmth, humor, and love. Her passing has left a void that can never be filled.

Breaking the Silence

The silence surrounding D’Asia’s death must be broken. Her story deserves to be told. Her life mattered. Her voice mattered. Her safety mattered. And now, in her absence, it is up to all of us to raise our voices on her behalf.

Let this be a call to action:

• To law enforcement – bring the person responsible to justice.
• To the media – tell her story.
• To the community – do not let D’Asia be forgotten.

Please take a moment to lift up her family and friends in prayer as they navigate unimaginable grief. Their loss is immeasurable, their pain palpable.

We will continue to follow this story, to amplify D’Asia’s name, and to stand beside those demanding justice. If you have any information, we urge you to come forward and help ensure that her killer is brought to justice.

Texas Arrested After 1-Year-Old Nephew Exposed to THC Vape Pen
El Paso County, Woman TX – May 16, 2025

El Paso County authorities have confirmed the arrest of 20-year-old Vianney Alyssa Acosta following a deeply troubling incident involving the exposure of her 1-year-old nephew to a THC vape pen. The incident, which occurred on May 16, 2025, has led to serious charges including child endangerment and possession of a controlled substance. The case has sparked widespread concern among local residents and renewed conversations about child safety, accountability, and responsible caregiving.

According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office East Montana Patrol, deputies were dispatched to a local residence after receiving reports of a young child experiencing unusual symptoms. Upon arrival, the child was found to be lethargic and exhibiting signs consistent with THC ingestion — prompting immediate medical attention. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors confirmed the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, in his system.

Investigators quickly identified the source of exposure: a THC vape pen that was allegedly left within reach of the child while he was under the supervision of his aunt, Vianney Alyssa Acosta. Further investigation revealed that Acosta had been in possession of additional THC products at the time of the incident. She was subsequently arrested and taken into custody.

Acosta now faces charges of child endangerment, a felony offense in the state of Texas, as well as drug possession. If convicted, she could face significant jail time, fines, and the permanent mark of a criminal record. More importantly, the incident has raised alarms about the dangers of improperly stored drug paraphernalia and the urgent need for greater vigilance when caring for young children.

“This case is a tragic reminder of how easily children can be harmed when adults fail to take the responsibilities of caregiving seriously,” said a spokesperson for the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. “The safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents — our children — must always be the top priority.”

Family members have since taken custody of the child, who is now recovering and under close medical observation. Child Protective Services (CPS) has also launched an independent investigation to ensure the child’s long-term safety and assess the broader family environment.

The case has sent shockwaves throughout El Paso County, prompting community leaders and advocacy groups to speak out. Many are using the incident as a call to action for better public education around the risks associated with recreational drug use in environments where children are present.

“This could have ended in an even more heartbreaking way,” said one local child welfare advocate. “We urge anyone who is caring for children — whether full-time or temporarily — to treat that responsibility with the seriousness it demands. Lives depend on it.”

As the legal process moves forward, Acosta remains in custody pending a court appearance. The case is expected to be presented to the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office for formal prosecution.

In the meantime, authorities continue to urge the public to take preventative steps to protect children from accidental drug exposure — including locking away any and all substances that could pose harm, being mindful of what is within reach, and ensuring anyone tasked with childcare is fully capable and responsible.

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has stated that further updates will be provided as the investigation continues. For now, the focus remains on the recovery of the young child and the pursuit of justice in what has been a deeply unsettling and preventable incident.

In Memory of Christopher Parsley – Centreville, Maryland
A Community in Mourning, A Life Gone Too Soon

The peaceful town of Centreville, Maryland, is grappling with shock, heartbreak, and profound grief following a senseless act of violence that claimed the life of Christopher Parsley, just 19 years old. In the early hours of Sunday, June 1, 2025, what was meant to be a joyful night of celebration transformed into a devastating tragedy — one that has shaken families, friends, and neighbors to their core.

Christopher was more than a name in a headline. He was a young man full of promise, energy, and heart. Known for his bright smile, generous spirit, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved, Christopher was deeply cherished by all who knew him. A recent graduate with big dreams and the determination to achieve them, he stood at the threshold of adulthood with ambition and hope. Whether on the basketball court, in the classroom, or simply spending time with loved ones, he radiated a presence that was both uplifting and unforgettable.

Tragically, in an instant, his life was taken, and two others were left injured in an incident that has stunned this tight-knit community. As investigators continue to search for answers, the grief is palpable. The pain of this loss echoes not only through the halls of the school he once walked but also in the hearts of friends, teachers, mentors, and neighbors who are left asking “why?”

The Parsley family, devastated by the sudden and senseless loss of their beloved son, now faces an unimaginable path forward. Their sorrow is heavy, and yet they remain surrounded by the love and support of a community determined to honor Christopher’s life and legacy. In this moment of heartbreak, Centreville has come together in unity — candlelight vigils, prayer circles, and heartfelt tributes reflect the depth of sorrow and the strength of the bonds that connect this community.

As we remember Christopher, we also hold in our hearts the two individuals who were injured during this tragic event. Their recovery — physical, emotional, and mental — will take time, and they too need the full support of the community to heal. This tragedy is not only a personal loss for those closest to Christopher but also a wake-up call for all who care about safety, peace, and the well-being of young lives.

Now more than ever, the community of Centreville is called to reflect, to come together, and to stand against the violence that threatens the futures of our youth. Christopher’s life should never have ended this way — and his memory deserves to be honored through meaningful action, lasting change, and renewed commitment to one another.

Funeral arrangements for Christopher Parsley will be announced by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, those wishing to offer support are encouraged to keep the Parsley family in their thoughts and prayers, to contribute to local efforts focused on healing and prevention, and to remember Christopher not for the tragedy that ended his life, but for the joy, light, and hope he brought into the world.

Rest in eternal peace, Christopher Parsley. You were loved. You mattered. And you will never be forgotten.

Remembering Richard Francis Vincent Pepe of Martin County, Florida
A Life That Touched Many, A Loss Felt by All

The Martin County community is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Richard Francis Vincent Pepe, a beloved son, brother, friend, and community member whose life was taken far too soon. His sudden and heartbreaking passing has left a void that words can scarcely fill, and his absence is profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Richard, often affectionately called “Richie” by those closest to him, was a vibrant soul with an infectious energy and a smile that could light up any room. He carried with him an open heart and a generous spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand, offer a kind word, or simply listen without judgment. Whether he was working on a new project, chatting with neighbors, or spending time with loved ones, Richard had a remarkable ability to make people feel valued, welcomed, and loved.

Born and raised in Florida, Richard built deep roots in Martin County, where he became an integral part of the local fabric. He was known for his work ethic, his passion for life, and his love for nature and the outdoors. From coastal sunrises to quiet forest trails, Richard found joy and peace in the natural world around him — a joy he shared freely with others through photography, storytelling, or spontaneous weekend adventures.

But perhaps what defined Richard most was the way he treated people. Friends and family remember him as someone who never met a stranger — someone who saw the good in others and made it his mission to uplift those around him. He was a trusted confidant, a dependable friend, and a source of light during even the darkest times. His laughter was loud and genuine, his hugs sincere, and his presence comforting.

Richard’s passing has sent ripples of grief through the community, as so many struggle to comprehend the loss of a man so full of life and potential. While his time on this earth was far too short, the impact he made will be felt for years to come. In conversations, in quiet moments of reflection, in the laughter of friends who recall a shared memory — Richard lives on.

His family, devastated by the loss, wishes to express their deep appreciation for the overwhelming support they have received. The outpouring of love, condolences, and shared stories has brought them moments of comfort amid their grief. They ask for continued prayers and respect for their privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss.

A memorial service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held in the coming days. Details will be shared with the community so that all who knew and loved him may gather, remember, and honor the extraordinary person he was.

Though he may be gone from our sight, Richard Francis Vincent Pepe will never be gone from our hearts. His spirit remains — in the kindness he showed, the love he gave, and the lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the same light he brought to so many.

In Loving Memory of Angie Francis – La Marque, TX

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Angie Francis, a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, friend, and cherished member of the La Marque, Texas community. Angie departed from this world leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Her absence is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Angie was known not only for her warm spirit and generous heart but also for her quiet strength and enduring kindness. She carried herself with grace through life’s challenges and embraced every moment with gratitude. Whether through a comforting hug, a shared story, or an encouraging word, Angie had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. Her home was a place of peace, filled with laughter, prayer, and the aroma of good food lovingly prepared.

Her family was the center of her universe. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to them — guiding with wisdom, nurturing with love, and supporting with an unshakable presence. As a mother and grandmother, Angie created a foundation of love that will continue to uplift generations to come. She was a quiet anchor, a source of comfort during difficult times, and a source of celebration during joyful ones.

Angie was also a committed member of her church and community. Her faith was the light that guided her life, and she lived out her beliefs in the most beautiful, humble ways — never asking for recognition, only seeking to serve and love as she was called to do.

As her family prepares for her burial services, they find solace in the outpouring of love and support from those who knew Angie and were touched by her life. Every message, every visit, and every prayer has been a comforting reminder of the deep and meaningful impact she made. The Francis family wishes to express their profound gratitude to the community of La Marque and beyond for standing with them during this difficult time.

Though she may no longer be with us in body, Angie Francis’s spirit lives on in the hearts of those she loved. Her memory will be cherished, her lessons remembered, and her love carried forward.

Funeral service details will be shared once finalized. In the meantime, the family asks for continued prayers and privacy as they honor Angie’s life and legacy.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Tragic Highway Collision Claims Life of 79-Year-Old Hilton Grandfather

HILTON, N.Y. — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded on a stretch of highway this week when 79-year-old James Gleason, a beloved grandfather and long-time resident of Hilton, lost his life in a sudden and violent collision with a deer. The accident has shaken the small community and left a family mourning the sudden loss of a man remembered for his warmth, resilience, and devotion to those he loved.

The fatal incident occurred when a deer unexpectedly darted onto the highway—one fatal moment in an otherwise ordinary day. Gleason, riding his motorcycle, had no time to react. The animal’s sudden appearance resulted in an immediate impact, hurling him from the motorcycle and onto the pavement with devastating force.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene and quickly transported Gleason to Strong Memorial Hospital, one of the region’s top trauma centers. Despite the best efforts of paramedics and medical professionals, the injuries he sustained were simply too severe. James Gleason was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

New York State Troopers arrived on site shortly after the collision and immediately began conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. While deer-related accidents are an all-too-common hazard on New York highways—especially during peak movement seasons—each one is uniquely devastating. Authorities have not released further details, but preliminary findings confirm that the deer ran into the path of the motorcycle with no apparent provocation.

James Gleason was much more than the victim of a tragic accident—he was a dedicated family man, a grandfather, and a cherished friend and neighbor. Those who knew him describe a man with a generous spirit, an infectious laugh, and an unshakable sense of loyalty. He had a love for motorcycles, often taking long scenic rides, and was known to recount stories from his youth with a twinkle in his eye.

For his family, the sudden nature of his death has only deepened the pain. What began as a peaceful ride ended in a way no one could have predicted or prepared for. His absence now leaves a silence that words can’t fill.

Local residents and friends have already begun rallying around the Gleason family, offering condolences, food, and support in any way they can. A memorial ride is reportedly being planned by members of the local motorcycle community in James’s honor—a tribute to his life, his passions, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Authorities are reminding all drivers, especially motorcyclists, to remain vigilant while on the road. Deer are especially active at dawn and dusk, and their unpredictable movements can create dangerous conditions, even for the most seasoned drivers and riders.

This heartbreaking loss is a grim reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly it can change. As the community of Hilton mourns, they do so with the memory of a man whose presence enriched the lives of many—and whose spirit, they vow, will not be forgotten.

James Gleason is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a community that will miss him deeply. Plans for a public memorial service are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Fatal Boating Incident Under Investigation by Police Marine Unit at Canaries Bay

CANARIES BAY, Saint Lucia – A tragic boating incident has prompted an official investigation by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s Police Marine Unit, following the death of a local diver on Tuesday, May 3, 2025. Authorities confirmed that the fatal collision occurred at approximately 1:49 p.m. off the coast of Canaries, a quiet fishing village on the island’s western shore known for its scenic bay and marine activity.

The incident involved a private vessel colliding with a diver who had been submerged in the area. Upon receiving the distress call, the Police Marine Unit promptly responded to the location. On arrival, officers secured the area and launched an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly accident.

The diver, identified as Nelson James, a well-known resident of Anse La Raye, was located and assessed at the scene by medical personnel. Sadly, Mr. James was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. His death has left the close-knit communities of Canaries and Anse La Raye in deep mourning, as residents struggle to comprehend the sudden and heartbreaking loss.

Mr. James was remembered by many as a skilled and responsible diver, someone who respected the ocean and often advocated for marine safety. His passing has reignited concerns about boaters’ awareness of divers in the water and the pressing need for stricter adherence to maritime safety protocols.

A post-mortem examination has been scheduled to determine the precise cause of death, although preliminary findings suggest the impact from the vessel was fatal. The identity of the vessel’s operator has not been released at this time, and authorities have not indicated whether any charges will be filed as the investigation continues.

In the wake of this tragedy, the Police Marine Unit is strongly urging the public—especially boaters, divers, and water sports enthusiasts—to exercise extreme caution when navigating Saint Lucia’s waters. Officials stress the importance of maintaining safe distances from dive flags and marked diving zones and abiding by the region’s maritime safety laws.

A spokesperson for the Marine Unit stated, “This incident is a painful reminder of the inherent dangers present in marine activities, particularly when safety measures are not properly observed. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this matter and taking the necessary steps to prevent such occurrences in the future.”

In light of the growing number of recreational users on the water, the Police Marine Unit also announced plans to launch a public sensitization campaign aimed at raising awareness around marine safety, responsible boating, and diver protection. The initiative will include community outreach, collaboration with local fishing and diving groups, and distribution of educational materials across the island.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Nelson James. The investigation remains ongoing, and the public is encouraged to contact the Police Marine Unit with any relevant information that may assist in the case.

As the island grieves the loss of one of its own, there is a renewed call for unity and responsibility on the water—to ensure that lives are not needlessly lost in Saint Lucia’s cherished but sometimes perilous seas.

Queens Man Indicted for Murder After Dragging Pedestrian to Death in Shocking Hit-and-Run Horror

In a harrowing incident that has deeply unsettled the Queens community, 49-year-old Warren Rollins of Elmont has been indicted for the tragic death of 66-year-old pedestrian Gary Charlotin. The fatal event occurred on December 10, 2023, on Hempstead Avenue near 220th Street in Queens Village.

The Incident

According to authorities, Charlotin was initially struck by a Toyota Camry driven by 36-year-old Osman Zavala-Varela of Hempstead. The impact propelled Charlotin into the eastbound lanes of Hempstead Avenue, where he lay injured. Moments later, Rollins, driving a Chevrolet Traverse, ran over Charlotin. Witnesses reported that Rollins stopped his vehicle after the collision, and bystanders urgently informed him that someone was trapped beneath his SUV. Despite their pleas, Rollins allegedly drove off after more than two minutes, dragging Charlotin’s body for several thousand feet. Charlotin was eventually dislodged near the Cross Island Parkway overpass, where he was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders .

Legal Proceedings

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that a grand jury returned a four-count indictment against Rollins, charging him with:

• Second-degree murder

• Second-degree manslaughter

• Criminally negligent homicide

• Leaving the scene of an incident without reporting

Rollins surrendered to the NYPD’s 105th Precinct on June 3, 2025, following a nearly six-month investigation. He was arraigned before Supreme Court Justice Michael Hartofilis, who ordered him held pending his next court appearance on July 17, 2025 .

Zavala-Varela, the driver of the Toyota Camry involved in the initial collision, was arrested earlier and charged with leaving the scene of an incident without reporting and tampering with physical evidence. He is scheduled to return to court on July 10 .

Community Impact

The incident has sparked outrage and grief within the Queens community, highlighting concerns over pedestrian safety and the consequences of reckless driving. District Attorney Katz emphasized the severity of Rollins’ actions, stating that his conduct demonstrated a complete disregard for human life.

As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits justice for Gary Charlotin, whose life was tragically cut short in this devastating hit-and-run incident.

Man Dies After Truck Becomes Stuck in Rising Floodwaters in North Dallas

Dallas, TX — June 4, 2025 — A man tragically lost his life overnight on Wednesday after his truck became stuck and nearly fully submerged in rapidly rising floodwaters in the north Dallas area. The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the dangers of flash flooding and the critical importance of heeding weather warnings during severe storms.

According to officials from the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department, the incident occurred just after midnight when torrential rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems in several parts of the city. The man, who has not yet been publicly identified pending notification of next of kin, was driving through an area known to be flood-prone when his vehicle became immobilized in deep water.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following a 911 call, but by the time they arrived, the truck was nearly fully submerged. Divers were deployed to access the vehicle, where the man was discovered unresponsive inside. Despite immediate rescue efforts and attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Last night’s storms produced more rain in a few hours than we typically see in a month,” said a Dallas Fire-Rescue spokesperson during a morning press briefing. “This was a heartbreaking and avoidable tragedy. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victim.”

As of Wednesday morning, officials had not provided further details about how the truck ended up in the water. It is unclear whether the driver attempted to cross a flooded roadway or was caught unaware by the rapidly rising waters. Authorities confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the precise circumstances leading up to the incident.

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Fort Worth reported that the Dallas area received more than 4 inches of rain overnight, much of it falling within a short time frame. The deluge led to flash flooding in multiple neighborhoods, temporarily closing roads and stranding motorists across the region. Several water rescue operations were conducted throughout the night, with dozens of people pulled from stalled vehicles and rising water by first responders.

The incident has reignited a broader public safety conversation about the importance of avoiding flooded roads. The city’s Office of Emergency Management reiterated the long-standing safety motto: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” More than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous floodwater, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

City officials emphasized that even a small amount of moving water can sweep away a car or truck. “It only takes 12 inches of water to float a vehicle, and just 24 inches can carry away most trucks,” said an emergency management representative. “People often underestimate the force and depth of water on a road.”

As the Dallas area continues its cleanup efforts, more rain is forecast in the coming days, heightening concerns about further flooding. The city is urging residents to remain alert, avoid low-lying areas during storms, and monitor weather alerts closely.

Grief and frustration ripple through the community as locals come to terms with the latest loss. Neighbors near the scene where the truck was found have placed flowers and candles in a growing makeshift memorial.

“This didn’t have to happen,” said one resident who lives nearby. “We need better barriers, clearer signage, something. This happens too often, and someone ends up paying with their life.”

Authorities have asked anyone with information or video footage of the incident to come forward to assist in their ongoing investigation.

As the city mourns the victim of this preventable tragedy, officials hope the somber event serves as a reminder of nature’s power—and the urgency of preparing for it.