Blog

Motorcyclist Killed in Jackson Crash Identified as 48-Year-Old Jason Mekosch

JACKSON, MN — A tragic motorcycle crash in Jackson Tuesday evening has claimed the life of 48-year-old Jason Mekosch, a resident of Jackson. The incident occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 71 and Bailey Street.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Shawn Haken, the crash involved a 1991 Harley Davidson motorcycle operated by Mekosch and a 2017 Ford Fusion driven by a teenage motorist. Preliminary reports indicate the car was attempting a left turn when it collided with the motorcycle.

Emergency responders arrived quickly and provided medical aid to Mekosch, who was critically injured in the crash. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The teen driver, whose name has not been released due to age, remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. No citations or arrests have been made at this time, pending the outcome of the investigation.

Sheriff Haken expressed condolences to Mekosch’s family and acknowledged the impact of the loss on the local community.

The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting in the investigation and will reconstruct the crash to determine contributing factors. Alcohol and drugs are not believed to have been involved.

Mekosch is remembered by friends and family as a kindhearted man with a love for motorcycles and the outdoors.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by the family.

Child Dies Following Tragic Incident at Hersheypark’s Water Park Area

HERSHEY, PA — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Thursday evening at Hersheypark in Pennsylvania, where a 9-year-old child died following an incident at The Boardwalk, the park’s water park area. The child was discovered in distress at one of the attractions, prompting an immediate response from lifeguards and on-site emergency personnel.

Hersheypark CEO John Lawn confirmed the incident and said lifeguards quickly performed a rescue, followed by continuous life-saving measures until paramedics arrived. The child was transported to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center but was later pronounced dead.

“We are devastated by the loss of a young guest and extend our deepest sympathies to the family,” Lawn said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with them during this unimaginably difficult time.”

Officials have not yet released the child’s identity, pending family notification. The exact circumstances of the incident remain under investigation by local authorities and park officials. As a precaution, the specific attraction involved has been temporarily closed while the investigation continues.

Witnesses described a chaotic and emotional scene as first responders worked to revive the child. Park guests were redirected from the area as emergency crews arrived.

Hersheypark said it is fully cooperating with the investigation and is offering support resources to affected staff and visitors.

Albany Police Investigating Fatal Stabbing of 33-Year-Old Darius Jackson

ALBANY, GA — The Albany Police Department is investigating a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of 33-year-old Darius Jackson early Thursday morning in the 1000 block of E. Tift Avenue.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene around 2:30 a.m. following reports of a violent altercation. Upon arrival, officers found Jackson suffering from multiple stab wounds. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.

Police have not yet released details about a potential suspect or motive but confirmed that the case is being treated as a homicide. Detectives spent several hours at the scene gathering evidence and canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses.

“This was a senseless act of violence,” said an Albany Police Department spokesperson. “We are urging anyone who may have seen or heard something to come forward. Even the smallest detail could help bring justice to Mr. Jackson’s family.”

Adger Woman Fatally Mauled by Dogs in Bessemer Identified as 50-Year-Old Delores M. Musgrove

BESSEMER, Ala. — A devastating incident has claimed the life of Delores M. Musgrove, a 50-year-old resident of Adger, Alabama, who was fatally attacked by a group of dogs in Bessemer. Authorities confirmed her death on Friday, July 25, 2025, following a harrowing scene that has left the community shaken and grieving.

The attack occurred early Thursday morning in the 100 block of Martin Street. Bessemer Police and emergency responders were called to the scene shortly before 6 a.m., where they found Musgrove critically injured. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, Musgrove sustained multiple traumatic injuries consistent with a dog mauling. Several dogs believed to have been involved in the attack were secured by animal control officers and are currently being held for observation.

Bessemer Police say the investigation is ongoing and that charges may be considered pending the outcome of the case. Authorities are working to determine whether the dogs were owned, stray, or part of a known problematic pack.

“This is a heartbreaking and horrific tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Bessemer Police Department. “We extend our deepest condolences to Ms. Musgrove’s family as we work to ensure justice and public safety.”

Residents in the area say they’ve reported loose dogs in the neighborhood before and are calling for stricter enforcement of local animal control laws.

Motorcyclist Killed in New Haven Township Crash Identified as 58-Year-Old Chadd Alfred Mayer

NEW HAVEN TOWNSHIP, Minn. — The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the identity of the man found dead earlier this week in a tragic motorcycle crash in New Haven Township. The victim has been identified as 58-year-old Chadd Alfred Mayer, a resident of Kasson, Minnesota.

The crash came to light on the morning of Monday, July 21, when a utility worker operating in the area noticed a motorcycle and the body of a man lying in a ditch near the intersection of County Road 5 NW and 85th Street NW. Authorities believe the crash likely occurred several hours earlier, possibly overnight.

Emergency personnel responded to the scene and pronounced Mayer deceased. He was wearing a helmet, and no other vehicles are believed to have been involved.

Preliminary investigation suggests Mayer may have lost control of his motorcycle while navigating a curve in the road. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota State Patrol.

Family members described Mayer as a dedicated father, hardworking tradesman, and passionate motorcycle enthusiast. His loss has left a deep void in the Kasson community.

26-Year-Old Tyrese Clark Identified as Victim in Fatal Lancaster Shooting

LANCASTER, Calif. — Authorities have identified the man who was fatally shot in Lancaster last Friday as 26-year-old Tyrese Clark, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. The shooting occurred around 8:05 p.m. on July 18 in the 44300 block of Cedar Avenue.

Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to reports of gunfire and discovered Clark at the scene suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics arrived and provided medical aid, but Clark was pronounced dead shortly after.

As of Thursday, no arrests have been made, and a motive for the shooting remains under investigation. Authorities have not released any information about potential suspects.

The LASD Homicide Bureau is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to come forward.

“This was a tragic loss of life,” a department spokesperson said. “We are asking the community to help us bring justice to Tyrese’s family.”

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we remember Charmeka Flowers, a beloved mother, daughter, and friend, who tragically lost her life on Tuesday in Racine, Wisconsin, at just 48 years old. Charmeka was a woman of warmth, resilience, and love — someone whose presence could brighten even the darkest days. Her compassion, strength, and unwavering support for her family and friends were the cornerstones of her character.

Born and raised in Racine, Charmeka dedicated her life to her family and community. Whether she was offering a listening ear, cooking a meal for someone in need, or simply sharing a heartfelt laugh, she made everyone around her feel seen and valued. Her generosity was boundless, and her spirit will remain an inspiration to all who knew her.

Charmeka is survived by her children, whom she loved fiercely and selflessly, as well as her mother, siblings, extended family, and countless friends who were touched by her kindness. Her memory will live on in the lives she helped shape and the love she so freely gave.

A celebration of Charmeka’s life will be held [insert date, time, and location], where family and friends will gather to honor her legacy and the beautiful impact she had on the world.

Man Fatally Shot in Palmdale Identified as 33-Year-Old Jorge Iniguez Vallejo Jr.

PALMDALE, Calif. — Authorities have identified the man who was fatally shot early Sunday morning in Palmdale as 33-year-old Jorge Iniguez Vallejo Jr., according to the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner. The incident occurred around 1:20 a.m. on July 21 in the 4600 block of East Avenue S, near the Domino’s Pizza in the Palmdale Market Place shopping center.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the area and found Vallejo suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

No suspect description has been released, and investigators have not yet disclosed a possible motive for the shooting. The Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau is leading the investigation.

Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward.

“Even the smallest detail could help us understand what led to this tragic event,” said a spokesperson for the LASD. “We know people in the area may have seen or heard something.”

Authorities to Suspend Active Search for Missing 10-Year-Old Trinity Eslinger

DESTIN, Fla. — After an exhaustive six-day search covering more than 250 square miles by air, land, and sea, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has announced it will conclude active search operations for 10-year-old Trinity Eslinger at the end of July 24. Trinity was last seen around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, near the Destin East Pass, a popular but unpredictable stretch of water where swift currents meet the Gulf of Mexico.

Since her disappearance, multiple agencies—including the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and local volunteer groups—have collaborated in the search effort. Drones, sonar-equipped boats, divers, and K9 teams were deployed in hopes of locating the missing girl.

“Our hearts are with Trinity’s family,” said Sheriff Eric Aden. “This is a devastating outcome no one wanted, and I want to thank all the first responders and volunteers who worked tirelessly in the search.”

Authorities said they will continue to investigate any new leads that come forward and encourage the public to report any relevant information. Though the active phase of the search is ending, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the case remains open.

Trinity was last seen wearing a light blue swimsuit and is described as 4 feet 6 inches tall, weighing approximately 70 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes.

In Loving Memory of Freddie Money

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Freddie Money, one of our cherished bus drivers and a beloved member of the Henry County Schools family. Freddie was more than a colleague—he was a kind soul, a dependable team player, and someone who brought warmth and positivity to everyone he encountered.

Freddie’s dedication to the safety and well-being of our students was unmatched. Every day, he showed care and commitment, ensuring that each child arrived safely and felt valued. His presence on our team was a source of comfort and joy, and his loss leaves a profound void in our community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Freddie’s family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time. We honor his memory and the lasting impact he made on our school family.