Blog

35-Year-Old Man Killed in Late-Night Shooting at Whitehall Billiards Hall

WHITEHALL, Ohio — A night of recreation ended in tragedy Friday after a shooting at a local billiards hall left one man dead. The Whitehall Division of Police has confirmed the victim as 35-year-old Corey Divers, who succumbed to his injuries after being shot inside Players Family Billiards on East Main Street.

Officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 11:50 p.m. following reports of gunfire inside the popular venue, located at 4380 East Main Street. When they arrived, they found Divers suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was transported to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Authorities say the events leading up to the shooting are still unclear. No suspect description has been released, and no arrests have been made as of Saturday. Investigators are working diligently to determine a motive and identify those responsible.

Whitehall police are urging anyone with information that might assist the investigation to come forward. Individuals can contact Detective McKittrick at 614-237-6333 ext. 1263. Tips can be provided anonymously.

This senseless act of violence has shocked the Whitehall community and left friends and family mourning the loss of a life taken far too soon. Police continue to ask for the public’s help in seeking justice for Corey Divers.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Parts of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee Until 9 PM

June 7, 2025 — The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, effective until 9:00 PM this evening.

This watch means that conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which could produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, frequent lightning, and heavy rainfall that may lead to localized flooding. Residents within the affected areas are urged to remain weather-aware and to have multiple ways to receive warnings.

Areas at Risk:

The watch includes, but is not limited to:

• Atlanta, GA
• Charlotte, NC
• Greenville-Spartanburg, SC
• Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN

Storms are expected to develop and intensify through the afternoon and evening hours. Isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out, particularly in areas where instability and wind shear overlap.

Safety Tips:

• Seek shelter indoors if a warning is issued or if threatening weather approaches.
• Avoid being outdoors during lightning storms.
• Secure loose outdoor items, as strong winds could turn them into dangerous projectiles.
• If driving, be aware of rapidly changing road conditions due to heavy rain and possible flash flooding.

Stay tuned to local news, NOAA Weather Radio, and trusted weather apps for real-time updates and alerts. As always, preparedness can save lives.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed. Stay safe.

Covington, Georgia — Texas Sheriff Leaves Loaded Gun in Wendy’s Bathroom, 15-Year-Old Discharges Weapon

The community of Covington, Georgia, is breathing a collective sigh of relief after a potentially tragic situation was narrowly avoided. Earlier today, a loaded firearm was left unattended in a Wendy’s restroom by a visiting sheriff from Texas, where it was later discovered and discharged by a 15-year-old boy.

According to the Covington Police Department, officers were dispatched to the Wendy’s at 11120 Highway 142 following a report of a firearm being discharged inside the restaurant. Their investigation revealed that the Texas sheriff was in the restroom with his juvenile grandson. During their time there, the sheriff removed his holstered weapon—presumably for comfort or convenience—and became distracted by the child’s unruly behavior. In the midst of the distraction, he exited the restroom without retrieving the firearm.

A short time later, a 15-year-old boy entered the same restroom, discovered the unattended weapon, and at some point, discharged it. Thankfully, no one was injured.

The incident prompted a comprehensive investigation by Covington detectives, who then consulted with the Newton County District Attorney’s Office to determine whether charges were appropriate. According to officials, the DA concluded that while the sheriff’s actions were deeply concerning, there was no evidence of criminal intent or negligence as defined under Georgia law. As such, no charges will be filed against the sheriff.

In an official statement, Covington Police stressed the importance of responsible firearm handling, especially for those entrusted with the public’s safety:

“We are incredibly fortunate that this situation did not end in tragedy. Let this be a stark reminder: firearms must always be secured and under control, especially in public spaces and around minors.”

While the sheriff’s identity has not been publicly released, the situation has raised serious questions about accountability and gun safety—even among law enforcement professionals. The Texas sheriff’s department where the individual is employed has not yet issued a statement, but internal review proceedings may be forthcoming.

This incident has reignited conversations around proper gun storage, situational awareness, and the responsibilities of carrying a firearm, particularly for those in positions of authority. As investigations conclude, one truth remains clear: a moment of distraction nearly led to disaster—and it could have been avoided.

Two Men Charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder in Mud Island Shooting

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with a violent shooting earlier this week on Mud Island, Memphis Police confirmed.

Christopher Skelton, 29, and Justin Furnish, 42, are facing multiple felony charges, including Attempted First-Degree Murder, following a brazen daylight attack on June 2, 2025.

At approximately 12:45 p.m., officers responded to a shooting at the intersection of Island Place East and Island Village Drive, where they discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was rushed to Regional One Hospital in critical condition.

According to police reports, the suspects—three men in a red Chevrolet Silverado—allegedly cut the victim off, attempted to carjack his truck, and then opened fire before fleeing the scene. Investigators later determined the Silverado used in the crime had been stolen earlier that morning from the 1500 block of Monroe.

The breakthrough in the case came on June 3, when officers responded to a suspicious vehicle report on East Holmes Road. The red Silverado was located and impounded.

The case gained further traction on June 5, when DeSoto County investigators provided Memphis Police with crucial information. The truck had been at the scene during the arrests of Skelton and Furnish on unrelated charges in DeSoto County on June 2.

On June 6, after further investigation, both men were formally charged.

Skelton and Furnish are now charged with:

• Theft of Property (Motor Vehicle) $2,500–$10,000
• Attempted Carjacking
• Attempted First-Degree Murder
• Two Counts of Employment of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony

The Memphis Police Department continues to investigate, and it’s unclear whether a third suspect remains at large. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact authorities.

This incident is the latest in a troubling trend of violent carjackings in the Memphis area, and police are emphasizing the importance of community assistance in solving and preventing such crimes.

Jury to Resume Murder Trial in July After Appeals Court Ruling in Case of Slain Fort Cavazos Soldier

KILLEEN, Texas — A Bell County jury selected in February to decide the fate of a former Fort Cavazos soldier accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend will return to court this summer after the trial was paused for months due to an appeals court ruling.

The case centers on 28-year-old Nakealon Keunte Mosley, a former Army corporal, who is charged with the murder of 24-year-old Sgt. Francine Martinez. Martinez was shot in the head during an altercation near the Hangover Bar & Grill on West Elms Road on Sept. 4, 2021, and died nearly two weeks later at a hospital in Temple.

Mosley was indicted in November 2021 on a first-degree felony charge of murder, as well as a Class A misdemeanor for discharging a firearm within city limits. He has remained in custody at the Bell County Jail on bonds totaling $505,000.

The jury, comprised of eight men and six women, including two alternates, heard five days of testimony beginning Feb. 3, 2025, with the defense resting on Feb. 7. However, before closing arguments could be delivered on Feb. 10, Judge Wade Faulkner abruptly halted proceedings, citing a legal issue that required resolution by the 3rd Court of Appeals in Austin.

At issue was a motion for a directed verdict filed by Mosley’s defense attorney, Zachary Boyd, who argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Mosley was the shooter. While Mosley was seen entering the passenger side of the suspect vehicle, witnesses said another known male was in the same car, raising questions about who actually fired the fatal shot.

Judge Faulkner initially granted the motion, dismissing the case. However, the state appealed, and on April 25, the appeals court reversed Faulkner’s ruling. The justices ruled that the trial must continue, with jurors instructed on the “law of parties,” which holds individuals criminally responsible for actions committed by others under certain conditions.

The court cited multiple pieces of evidence, including surveillance footage, and recorded jailhouse calls in which Mosley referred to the other individual as the driver and shooter, as justification for reinstating the trial.

Following the appellate court’s decision, Boyd filed a motion for rehearing on May 2, which was denied a week later. The case has since been placed back on the trial docket, and jury proceedings are set to resume on July 21.

The community and loved ones of Sgt. Francine Martinez, a respected soldier stationed at Fort Cavazos, continue to seek justice nearly four years after her death. The resumption of the trial marks a critical next step in determining accountability for the tragic loss of her life.

Shooting in Rockford Sends Man to Hospital With Life-Threatening Injuries, Police Say

ROCKFORD, Ill. — A man is fighting for his life after a shooting in Rockford on Saturday, according to local police.

Officers with the Rockford Police Department responded to the scene just after 5:30 p.m. following reports of gunfire in a residential neighborhood. When officers arrived, they located an adult male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Emergency medical crews provided immediate aid at the scene before rushing the man to a nearby hospital. Police say he is currently being treated for life-threatening injuries.

The incident occurred near the 900 block of Acorn Street, though officials have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting or a potential suspect. Investigators were seen canvassing the area and speaking with witnesses throughout the evening.

As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains active.

The Rockford Police Department is urging anyone with information to contact their tip line or submit information anonymously through Rockford Area Crime Stoppers.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, and police emphasized that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Second Teen Arrested in Connection with Deadly Norristown Shooting; Gang Feud Blamed

NORRISTOWN, PA – A second teenager has been arrested and charged in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Tahaj Andru Harrison, as authorities continue to investigate what they describe as a gang-related, targeted killing.

Montgomery County officials announced the arrest of 17-year-old Naseem Worrell on Friday night. Worrell, who had been considered armed and dangerous, now faces charges of first-degree murder and multiple related offenses in connection with the May 23 shooting.

His arrest follows that of 16-year-old Kaleem Roland, who was taken into custody and similarly charged earlier in the week. Both teens, along with the victim, were residents of Norristown.

The Incident

Police responded to reports of gunfire on Friday, May 23, at approximately 9:45 p.m. on the 600 block of Corson Street. Officers arrived to find Tahaj Harrison lying in the backyard of his home, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators later determined the shooting had occurred just a few houses away from Harrison’s residence. Surveillance footage from the area showed three individuals walking down the street and opening fire on the victim as he stood in front of his home.

The Investigation

Detectives recovered six spent shell casings, two live rounds of 9mm ammunition, and Harrison’s cell phone at the scene. Ballistics testing confirmed the rounds were fired from three separate firearms.

Digital evidence, including Instagram messages, revealed a heated exchange between Harrison and Worrell in the hours leading up to the shooting. Authorities say the conversation, which included perceived disrespectful posts from Harrison, appeared to stem from an ongoing gang-related feud.

Ongoing Search

Police are still searching for a third suspect involved in the shooting. No identifying information about that individual has been released.

Community Impact

The arrests come as Norristown continues to confront rising concerns about youth violence and gang activity. Officials say they remain committed to holding those responsible accountable and preventing further escalation.

Anyone with information about the case or the third suspect is urged to contact Norristown Police or Montgomery County Detectives.

Harrison’s murder marks another tragic chapter in the ongoing violence gripping communities across the region, and authorities are calling on residents to come forward with any information that might aid in delivering justice.

Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 19-Year-Old Zavien Smallwood in Greenville

GREENVILLE, TX — The Greenville community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Zavien Smallwood, affectionately known as “BabyMu,” who was tragically shot and killed in the early hours of June 3, 2025.

Officers from the Greenville Police Department responded to a call reporting gunfire and arrived at the scene to find Smallwood suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders administered immediate aid before transporting him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

According to authorities, a male suspect has been identified, and initial findings suggest the shooting stemmed from a domestic disturbance. While the investigation remains ongoing, the devastating impact of Zavien’s death is already being felt throughout the community.

Adding to the tragedy, Zavien had recently embraced fatherhood, having just welcomed a newborn son. Family and friends describe him as a kind-hearted young man who was full of hope and love for his new role as a dad. His sudden loss has left his loved ones grappling with deep sorrow and uncertainty for the future of his infant child.

In response, the family has launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and provide support for Zavien’s child and grieving relatives. The community is encouraged to contribute, share, and uplift the family during this incredibly painful time.

Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to contact the Greenville Police Department. As the investigation continues, Zavien Smallwood’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

May he rest in peace.

Eight Palestinians Killed by Israeli Troops Near Aid Distribution Center in Rafah, Gaza

GAZA — At least eight Palestinians were shot and killed by Israeli troops early Saturday near a humanitarian aid distribution center in Rafah, Gaza, according to hospital officials and the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.

The deadly shooting occurred around 6 a.m. local time at the Al-Alam roundabout, approximately one kilometer from the aid center west of Rafah city. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) regard this area as an active combat zone during nighttime hours when the aid site is closed.

The incident underscores the precarious conditions faced by Palestinians attempting to access vital humanitarian aid. The Israeli- and U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, responsible for aid distribution in Gaza, closed its distribution sites on Friday without announcing when they would reopen.

Since the aid centers opened on May 27, Gaza’s Hamas-run Government Media Office reports that more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds injured while trying to collect food and other aid. The United Nations and various humanitarian groups continue to warn that Palestinians in Gaza remain at severe risk of starvation and famine.

The recent violence near the aid centers highlights the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid ongoing conflict and restricted access to life-saving resources. The international community continues to call for urgent measures to ensure safe passage for aid deliveries and to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.

One Dead, Two Injured in Early Morning Shooting at Phoenix Apartment Complex

PHOENIX, AZ — Tragedy struck early Saturday morning at an apartment complex near 40th Street and Camelback Road, where a shooting left one man dead and two others wounded.

Phoenix police were called just before 4:30 a.m. to the scene following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered a man suffering from a gunshot wound lying on the ground. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital but later died from his injuries. Authorities have not yet released his identity as they notify next of kin.

A second man was treated at the scene for a minor injury believed to be caused by gunfire, while a third victim arrived independently at a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening wounds.

The suspect or suspects fled the scene before police arrived. No descriptions of the individual(s) or vehicle(s) involved have been made public.

Investigators are actively working to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting. It remains unclear if the victims were targeted or if this was a random act of violence.

The Phoenix Police Department is asking anyone with information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for community awareness and cooperation to help reduce violence and ensure public safety.