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What Happened

• When & Where: Late evening on July 2, 2025, around 11 p.m. CDT, outside Artis Restaurant and Lounge (formerly Hush Lounge) in the River North neighborhood of Chicago abc7chicago.com+15pitchfork.com+15ew.com+15.

• The attack: A dark-colored vehicle pulled up, and multiple shooters opened fire into the crowd exiting the party pbs.org+15pitchfork.com+15the-independent.com+15.

• Casualties: Four people—two men (ages 24 & 25) and two women (ages 26 & 27)—were killed. Fourteen others, aged 21–32, were injured, with at least three critically wounded the-independent.com+4theguardian.com+4people.com+4.

Victim Details

• The deceased included two women (one identified as Taylor Walker, 26) and two young men (identified as Leon Andrew Henry, 25, and Devonte Terrell Williamson, 23) nbcchicago.com+15theguardian.com+15en.wikipedia.org+15.

• Among the injured were Mello Buckzz’s boyfriend and her best friend, who were among the fatalities and wounded, respectively abc7chicago.com+15ew.com+15pitchfork.com+15.

Mello Buckzz’s Response

• Actress‑turned‑rapper Mello Buckzz (birth name Melanie Doyle, 24) took to Instagram, expressing heartbreak and calling for prayers for her “sisters” and crew. She shared emotional tributes to her lost loved ones: “My heart broke into so many pieces,” she said revolt.tv+5ew.com+5the-independent.com+5.

Context & Investigation

• The venue, Artis, was marketed as a safe, inclusive space for Black, LGBTQ+, and allied communities. It has been closed by police order following the shooting the-independent.com+7washingtonpost.com+7nbcchicago.com+7.

• Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling described the act as “cowardly,” noted that multiple calibers were used, and called for public assistance. No arrests have been announced en.wikipedia.org+5washingtonpost.com+5apnews.com+5.

• This wasn’t the first violent incident at the site—its previous iteration, Hush Lounge, was shut in 2022 after a fatal shooting pitchfork.com.

Community & Official Reaction

• Witnesses recalled a “chaotic, war-zone” scene with blood and grief as people rushed to safety theguardian.com+1apnews.com+1.

• Pastor Donovan Price, a local community responder, recounted the utter chaos of the aftermath pbs.org+2theguardian.com+2the-independent.com+2.

• Mayor Brandon Johnson announced increased police presence over the Fourth of July weekend to prevent further violence en.wikipedia.org+3apnews.com+3pbs.org+3.

🔍 What’s Next

• Investigators are analyzing shell casings (some from handguns and rifles), collecting video, and pursuing leads saharareporters.com.

• No suspects have been detained yet, and motives—whether targeted or gang-related—are still under investigation .

• The community is being urged to share any tips: “Come forward,” said the police apnews.com.

• Artis Lounge remains closed, and the city is considering future restrictions on nightclub operations at the location ew.com+15washingtonpost.com+15nbcchicago.com+15.

In Remembrance

• Among the four killed were dedicated young adults: a 26‑year‑old hairstylist, a health care worker, and two male friends of Mello Buckzz nbcchicago.com+15abc7chicago.com+15pitchfork.com+15.

• Mello Buckzz honored them in heartfelt Instagram posts:

  “I can’t believe I lost both y’all in one night… My heart tore into so many pieces.” nbcchicago.com+11revolt.tv+11washingtonpost.com+11the-independent.com+2ew.com+2the-independent.com+2

Summary: A tragic mass shooting outside the Artis Lounge in Chicago during Mello Buckzz’s album release party resulted in four deaths and 14 injuries. The rap community, local officials, and survivors are in shock. With no arrests yet and motives unclear, the investigation is ongoing as the city mobilizes for safety.

A Community Still Searching for Answers: Tragedy at a Park Hills Daycare

PARK HILLS, MO — Six weeks after the tragic death of a three-year-old boy at a local daycare, a quiet grief still hangs over the community. Pieces of a small memorial — faded flowers, stuffed animals, hand-painted signs — sit outside the now-shuttered building of Poppy’s Playhouse 2, a daycare center once trusted by dozens of families in Park Hills. The boy, Conrad David Wade Ashcraft, was just three years old and nonverbal, with autism. He died while in the care of the daycare staff on May 16, 2025. And although weeks have passed, the questions remain unanswered.

The community, the family, and now the broader public are demanding accountability — not just for what happened that day, but for what could have prevented it.

A Daycare Trusted by Many — and Now at the Center of Scrutiny
Poppy’s Playhouse 2 was not just any daycare. It was co-owned and operated by Spring Gray, a then-sitting Park Hills city councilwoman. For many, that connection to public service was a source of comfort — a sense that the facility must have met the highest standards. That sense has since turned to betrayal for many residents, as details of Conrad’s final hours began to surface.

According to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Conrad’s family, the child was restrained during nap time — a practice which the family alleges was common at the daycare, especially for children who didn’t fall asleep easily. Staff allegedly placed their legs across his torso, possibly compressing his chest or abdomen. At some point, Conrad became unresponsive. He was reportedly left unattended for several hours before anyone noticed he was no longer breathing.

The details are heartbreaking. Conrad, a nonverbal child with special needs, may have died silently — out of sight and out of mind.

A Mother’s Anguish, and a Family’s Fight for Justice
In the weeks following his death, Conrad’s mother, Brittani Ashcraft, has become a quiet but steady voice calling for justice. Through her attorneys, she has described the daycare’s care as negligent at best, abusive at worst. The lawsuit states the facility lacked proper training to handle children with autism and that there were no protocols in place for how to safely calm or supervise children during nap time.

“They left him alone for hours,” Brittani said in a public statement. “No one checked. No one cared.”

She also emphasized that Conrad was a joyful, curious boy who loved music and animals — a child who deserved to be protected, not harmed.

Government Response and Growing Outrage
Within days of Conrad’s death, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Childhood suspended the daycare’s operating license. That suspension remains in effect as of early July. The daycare has not reopened.

Meanwhile, the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department launched a formal investigation. Due to Spring Gray’s role as a city councilwoman and her connections to local officials, a special prosecutor — Trisha Stefanski from Jefferson County — was appointed to oversee the case to ensure impartiality.

An autopsy was conducted, though results have not yet been released publicly. The lack of immediate clarity surrounding the cause of death has only deepened the community’s sense of unease.

To many residents, this is more than a tragedy — it’s a breach of trust. That such an incident could happen under the watch of a publicly known figure has left many parents anxious and angry. Local advocacy groups have already begun pushing for stricter regulations and oversight for all Missouri childcare providers, especially those caring for children with developmental differences.

Pieces of a Memorial — and a Growing Movement
Outside the shuttered daycare, a makeshift memorial quietly marks the spot where trust was broken. Local residents, many of whom never knew Conrad personally, stop by to leave toys, candles, and handwritten messages.

One sign reads, “He mattered.” Another: “Justice for Conrad.”

Community vigils have been held. A local pastor offered a prayer for “healing, truth, and accountability.” State lawmakers have reportedly begun drafting what could become “Conrad’s Law,” aimed at improving training for daycare staff, increasing penalties for negligence, and mandating more rigorous inspections.

Still No Charges — But Pressure Mounts
As of July 4, no criminal charges have been filed in the case. The special prosecutor has said the investigation remains active and that the delay is due to the complexity of the case — and the importance of getting it right.

That explanation has not satisfied everyone. Local residents and activists have demanded more transparency and faster action. Social media pages dedicated to Conrad’s memory have gained traction, and a petition urging prosecution has gathered thousands of signatures.

A Lasting Impact
The story of Conrad Ashcraft is now part of Park Hills’ history — one that no parent or community ever wants to repeat. His death has triggered a reckoning over how we protect our most vulnerable children and how quickly we act when that protection fails.

Conrad’s story, though short, has become a catalyst. A memorial still stands where answers remain elusive. But the community’s message is clear: they will not forget, and they will not stop asking questions until justice is served.

Details of the Incident & Discovery

• Timeline:

  • July 1, early morning: Dr. Buenafe disembarked from the Norwegian Bliss, heading to hike the Gold Ridge–Gastineau Peak trail after riding the Mount Roberts Tramway. She texted her family around 7:30 a.m. and was captured on security footage at the tramway summit juneauempire.com+15people.com+15wkyt.com+15.

  • 1:30 p.m.: The cruise ship departed without her, triggering a missing-person report wlky.com+8people.com+8wlky.com+8.

• Search Efforts:
  A vast multi-agency operation unfolded: Alaska Wildlife Troopers, U.S. Coast Guard, Juneau Mountain Rescue, Southeast Alaska Dogs (SEADOGS), helicopter crews, drones, and K‑9 units joined in ksro.com+6people.com+6people.com+6.

• Discovery:
  On July 3 at 11:56 a.m. AK time, an Alaska Army National Guard helicopter located her body about 1,700 feet below the Gold Ridge ridge line lex18.com+10people.com+10alaskasnewssource.com+10. Rescue teams and Temsco Helicopters retrieved the remains, which were then sent for autopsy. Next of kin have been informed apnews.com+2people.com+2wlky.com+2.

Who Dr. Buenafe Was

• A devoted family medicine physician at UK HealthCare in Lexington, Kentucky.

• Over 20 years of experience, a Mayo Clinic-trained graduate from Case Western Reserve University wkyt.com+8people.com+8nypost.com+8.

Community & Cruise Line Response

• Norwegian Cruise Line expressed condolences and confirmed they are assisting the family through their CARE team apnews.com+11people.com+11hometownnewsnow.com+11.

• Alaska State Troopers thanked all participating agencies — including the National Guard, Temsco Helicopters, and Juneau Mountain Rescue — for their critical roles alaskasnewssource.com+12people.com+12apnews.com+12.

Important Safety Reminders

Officials emphasized:

• Always inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.

• Bring backup communication tools—like satellite devices—especially when cell coverage is unreliable apnews.com+5wymt.com+5alaskasnewssource.com+5.

A Profound Loss

Dr. Buenafe’s sudden and tragic death is a devastating blow—to her family, patients, colleagues, and all who treasured her warm spirit. This loss resonates far beyond her hometown and marks the harsh reality of how swiftly life can change in the wilderness.

In Loving Memory of Lucien “Punky” – A Bright Light Gone Too Soon

Fillmore, California — It is with unimaginable grief and sorrow that the tight-knit community of Fillmore gathers to mourn the heartbreaking and untimely passing of Lucien, lovingly known to all as “Punky.” Just 5 years old, Punky’s life was tragically cut short in a devastating car accident—a loss that has left a wound no words can fully mend.

Lucien was more than just a child. He was joy personified—a beaming smile, an infectious laugh, a bundle of light and energy that touched everyone who had the privilege to know him. To say he was loved would be an understatement. Punky was adored. By his family, his friends, his neighbors, and everyone in this community who saw the promise and the pure, sweet spirit in his bright eyes.

Though he was only with us for a short time, Lucien managed to bring an incredible amount of love and happiness into the world. He had the magic that only children possess—the ability to turn an ordinary day into an adventure, to lift hearts with a simple glance, to remind us of the beauty in the little things. He was curious, playful, loving, and full of dreams. A beautiful boy with a future that should have stretched long ahead of him.

The news of his passing has shattered hearts across Fillmore and beyond. It’s the kind of loss that makes the world stop spinning for a moment—a sobering reminder of life’s fragility, and of how precious each day truly is. As a community, we grieve not only the loss of a child, but of the laughter that will no longer echo in playgrounds, the hugs that will never be given, and the moments—big and small—that will remain painfully unfulfilled.

To Punky’s family: our hearts are with you. There are no words that can ease the pain of losing a child, but please know that your sorrow is shared by many. This community stands beside you, holding space for your grief, and carrying Lucien’s memory forward with love and reverence.

Lucien “Punky,” you were a light in the lives of so many. And though that light was extinguished far too soon, its glow will remain in our hearts forever. May you rest in peace, sweet boy. You will never be forgotten.am[o

What a Tragic Loss. RIP Nora.

It’s difficult to find the right words when someone like Nora is taken from us far too soon. Her passing is not just a loss—it’s a tragic void that words can hardly fill. There’s an ache that lingers, a silence that feels heavier than usual, because someone so vibrant, so full of life, is no longer here.

Nora was truly one of a kind. Her kindness was effortless, her laughter contagious, her presence grounding. She had a way of making people feel comfortable, valued, and heard. Whether you knew her for years or had just met her, she had this rare ability to leave a mark—a good one, the kind you carry with you.

She had a light in her, something pure and deeply human. She was the kind of person who checked in on others without being asked, who gave without expecting anything in return. Her heart was open, generous, and true. Nora had dreams, plans, and so much love to give. The world feels off-balance without her in it.

What makes this even harder is knowing how many lives she touched—family, friends, co-workers, classmates, and even those who knew her only briefly. Her spirit was magnetic, her soul gentle. And though her time here was painfully short, the impact she made was nothing less than profound.

Losing someone like Nora leaves a scar, but it also leaves a legacy—one of love, compassion, and humanity. She may be gone in body, but her spirit remains etched in our hearts and memories. Every laugh she sparked, every hug she gave, every act of kindness she offered—they live on.

So we say goodbye not just with sorrow, but with deep gratitude for the time we had with her. Nora, you were loved more than words can express. You still are. And you always will be.

Rest in peace, beautiful soul. Gone way too soon, but never, ever forgotten.

What a Great Guy, Gone Way Too Soon

There are some people who walk into our lives and leave an imprint so deep, so lasting, that even time itself struggles to soften the pain of their absence. He was one of those people. A great guy—genuine, kind, and effortlessly generous—gone far too soon.

It’s hard to wrap your head around how someone so full of life could suddenly be gone. He had that rare energy, the kind that lit up a room without trying. You knew when he was there—not because he was loud, but because he was present. He made people feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it was a quick joke to break the tension or a thoughtful message out of the blue, he always knew the right thing to say and do. And he did it without expecting anything in return.

He didn’t just talk about showing up for people—he did it. He was the one you could call at 2 a.m. and know he’d answer. He was the one who’d go out of his way to make sure you were okay, even when he wasn’t doing okay himself. That’s the kind of heart he had—big enough for everyone, often forgetting to save a little for himself.

It’s not fair. It never is when good people leave this world too soon. There’s so much more he could have done, so many more memories we should’ve made together. The laughter, the late-night talks, the plans that now feel like empty promises to a future that will never be. His story ended before it should have—but the chapters he did leave behind? They were rich with meaning.

What makes it harder is knowing how deeply he touched the lives around him. It wasn’t just his family and close friends who felt it. His impact reached coworkers, classmates, neighbors, even people who only met him once but never forgot his smile. That’s rare. That’s beautiful. That’s him.

We grieve because we loved. And we loved because he was worthy of it in every sense of the word. Though he may no longer walk beside us, he lives on—in the stories we share, the lives he changed, and the space he carved into our hearts.

So today, and every day, we remember him not just for the sadness his absence brings, but for the joy his presence gave us. What a great guy, gone way too soon—but never forgotten.

Gilbert, AZ — A Heartfelt Tribute to Dani Crosbie: A Life of Love, Dedication, and Impact

It is with profound love and deep sorrow that the community of Gilbert comes together to remember and celebrate the life of Dani Crosbie—a truly remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit, unwavering dedication, and heartfelt compassion left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Dani was more than just an educator. She was a beacon of light for those around her, an inspiring presence whose influence stretched far beyond the classroom. Through her work, her interactions, and her advocacy, Dani embodied what it meant to be selfless, kind, and deeply committed to the well-being of others. Her ability to connect with people was extraordinary, and she had an incredible gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and important.

In the classroom, Dani was a force. Her passion for education was not confined to the mere transfer of knowledge; she believed in the power of shaping hearts and minds, nurturing potential, and fostering growth. For her, teaching was not just about subjects or lessons, but about creating a space where every student could find their voice, their purpose, and the courage to pursue their dreams. She was a mentor, a guide, and a cheerleader to her students, always pushing them to do their best, while reminding them that they were capable of achieving greatness. Her belief in the transformative power of education made her an irreplaceable part of countless young lives.

But Dani’s influence didn’t end there. Her kindness and empathy were woven into every aspect of her life. Whether in the classroom, with her colleagues, or in her personal relationships, she radiated compassion. She had a remarkable ability to listen without judgment, to offer guidance without imposing, and to provide love without hesitation. Dani was a friend to everyone, and her genuine interest in the lives and well-being of others made her someone people turned to, not just for advice, but for comfort and support.

Her commitment to her community was equally inspiring. Dani was involved in numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting and supporting others, particularly those who were marginalized or in need. Whether through volunteer work, charity events, or simply lending a helping hand when someone needed it, Dani always showed up. She lived a life of service—guided by a deep sense of responsibility to make the world around her a better, kinder place.

Dani’s love for her family was at the core of who she was. She was a loving daughter, sister, and friend whose devotion to those she loved knew no bounds. Her laughter, her sense of humor, and her ability to brighten even the darkest days will be remembered by those who had the honor of sharing their lives with her. Dani’s legacy is not only in the lessons she imparted to her students or the impact she made in her community, but also in the profound love she shared with everyone around her.

As we come together to honor Dani’s life, we are reminded of the power of her influence. While she is no longer with us in the physical sense, her spirit remains alive in all of us—through the kindness she taught us, the strength she inspired, and the love she shared freely. The world is forever better because Dani was in it.

The community of Gilbert has lost an extraordinary individual, but her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. Dani Crosbie was a woman who truly made a difference, and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Rest in peace, Dani. You will be missed beyond measure, but your love, your spirit, and your impact will never fade. We carry your light with us always.

The Clarksdale community and the surrounding areas are in mourning after the heartbreaking and tragic discovery of Demarcus Flowers, a beloved figure who was found dead in the median of Highway 61, just south of Tunica, Mississippi. His untimely passing has left a deep void in the hearts of all who knew him, and his death has sparked waves of grief, confusion, and a yearning for answers throughout the region.

Demarcus Flowers was not just a name — he was a central part of the local fabric. Known for his warmth, generosity, and the genuine connections he forged with others, Demarcus was the kind of person who made those around him feel welcome and valued. From his friends to his family, and even to those who only knew him in passing, Demarcus had a rare ability to make people feel like they mattered. His smile could light up a room, and his laughter was contagious. A natural leader with an easygoing and charismatic demeanor, Demarcus played an important role in his community, known for being someone who would lend a helping hand, share a kind word, and lift up those around him.

In a small, close-knit town like Clarksdale, where everyone knows each other, Demarcus was a familiar face — always present, always involved, and always making a positive impact. Whether through personal connections, community events, or simply through his daily interactions, Demarcus was a man who contributed to the spirit and strength of his town. The loss of such an influential figure is immeasurable, and it leaves a deep, undeniable sense of emptiness in its wake.

The circumstances surrounding Demarcus’ death only add to the heartbreak. Found in the median of Highway 61, just south of Tunica, the discovery of his body has raised questions, uncertainty, and concern throughout the community. There are still many unanswered questions about the events leading up to his death, and the grief of losing someone so suddenly and under such mysterious circumstances is compounded by the need for justice and closure. Demarcus deserved so much more — more time, more memories, more moments shared with the people who loved him.

For the friends and family who were closest to him, this loss is particularly devastating. Demarcus was more than just a friend; he was family. He had the kind of bond with others that went beyond mere friendship — he was a confidant, a shoulder to lean on, and a person people could always count on, no matter the situation. His love for his community was boundless, and his selflessness and kindness knew no limits.

Those who knew Demarcus best often describe him as someone who was always there for others. He was someone who would go out of his way to help a friend in need, offer support during difficult times, or simply show up when his presence was needed. His sense of loyalty and generosity was unmatched, and his loss leaves a hole that no one will be able to fill.

As the investigation into his death continues, the community of Clarksdale is left in a state of grief, fear, and confusion. People are asking questions, trying to make sense of what happened, and holding onto the hope that justice will be served for Demarcus. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, one thing is certain — Demarcus Flowers was a man who touched many lives and made an indelible impact on his community.

The tragic loss of Demarcus has brought together people from all walks of life, united in their mourning and their desire to remember him for the good he brought into the world. His life, while cut far too short, is one that will continue to inspire those who knew him. The memories of his kindness, his laughter, his infectious energy, and his commitment to helping others will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.

In this difficult time, as the Clarksdale community comes together to mourn, they also stand in solidarity with Demarcus’ family, friends, and loved ones. It is a time for the community to lean on one another, to share stories of Demarcus’ life, and to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind — a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering support for others. Demarcus may no longer be with us, but his spirit and the lessons he imparted will endure in the hearts of all who were touched by his life.

As the investigation continues, we stand with Demarcus’ family, friends, and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss. We owe it to him to seek the answers that will bring justice to his memory, and we vow to keep his legacy alive by continuing to support one another and fostering the sense of community that he worked so hard to build.

Rest in peace, Demarcus Flowers. Your light, your love, and your laughter will never be forgotten.