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Albion, Maine – July 11, 2025 -The Maine State Police (MSP) are investigating a tragic hit-and-run that occurred Friday evening in Albion, claiming the life of a young child and leaving a mother and her other child severely injured. With swift action from investigators and support from the community, the suspect has been located and taken into custody.

At approximately 5:12 PM, Troopers from the Central Field Troop responded to a report of a pedestrian crash in the area of 60 Hussey Hill Road. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that 33-year-old Mollie Egold of Albion and her two young children had been struck by a white vehicle, which fled the scene immediately after the collision.

Victims Identified

• Mollie Egold, the adult victim, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted via LifeFlight to a nearby hospital. She is currently listed in stable condition.
• One of Mollie’s children was also transported by LifeFlight and remains in critical condition.
• Tragically, her other child was pronounced deceased at the scene. The names of the minor victims have not been released at this time, pending official identification and notification of next of kin.

This devastating incident has left a deep wound in the Albion community, with an outpouring of support for the Egold family.

Suspect Arrested

Through tireless investigative work and collaboration with local partners, Troopers quickly identified the vehicle involved—a white 2016 Hyundai Veloster—and its driver, 44-year-old Benjamin Lancaster, also of Albion. Lancaster was located, apprehended, and transported to the Kennebec County Jail.

He is facing multiple felony charges, including:

• Operating Under the Influence Causing Death
• Operating Under the Influence Causing Serious Bodily Injury (2 counts)
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Death
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Serious Bodily Injury (2 counts)

Lancaster remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Public’s Help Needed

The MSP is seeking video surveillance or dashcam footage from the area of Hussey Hill Road and Main Street in Albion, recorded between 5:00 PM and 5:15 PM on July 11, 2025.

If you have any relevant footage or information, please contact Sgt. Garret Booth at 207-624-7076.

Acknowledgments

The Maine State Police extend sincere thanks to LifeFlight of Maine, the Albion Fire Department, and Delta Ambulance

📰 MSP Investigating Deadly Hit-and-Run Crash in Albion 📰

Albion, Maine – July 11, 2025

The Maine State Police (MSP) are investigating a tragic hit-and-run that occurred Friday evening in Albion, claiming the life of a young child and leaving a mother and her other child severely injured. Thanks to swift action by investigators, the suspected driver, 44-year-old Benjamin Lancaster of Albion, has been located and taken into custody.

At approximately 5:12 PM, Troopers from the Central Field Troop responded to a report of a pedestrian crash in the area of 60 Hussey Hill Road. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that 33-year-old Mollie Egold of Albion and her two young children had been struck by a white vehicle, which fled the scene immediately after the collision.

Victims Identified

• Mollie Egold, the adult victim, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted via LifeFlight to a nearby hospital. She is currently listed in stable condition.
• One of Mollie’s children was also transported by LifeFlight and remains in critical condition.
• Tragically, her other child was pronounced deceased at the scene. The names of the minor victims have not been released at this time, pending official identification and notification of next of kin.

This devastating incident has left a deep wound in the Albion community, with an outpouring of support for the Egold family.

Suspect Arrested

Through tireless investigative work and collaboration with local partners, Troopers quickly identified the vehicle involved—a white 2016 Hyundai Veloster—and its driver, Benjamin Lancaster. Lancaster was apprehended and transported to the Kennebec County Jail.

He is facing the following charges:

• Operating Under the Influence Causing Death
• Operating Under the Influence Causing Serious Bodily Injury (2 counts)
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Death
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Serious Bodily Injury (2 counts)

Lancaster remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Public’s Help Needed

The MSP is seeking video surveillance or dashcam footage from the area of Hussey Hill Road and Main Street in Albion, recorded between 5:00 PM and 5:15 PM on July 11, 2025.

Anyone with relevant footage or information is asked to contact Sgt. Garret Booth at 207-624-7076.

Acknowledgments

The Maine State Police would like to thank LifeFlight of Maine, the Albion Fire Department, and Delta Ambulance for their fast, professional response and support during this tragic incident.

This heartbreaking crash has devastated the Egold family and the wider Albion community. The Maine State Police remain committed to securing justice for Mollie Egold, her surviving child, and the memory of the child whose life was cut short far too soon.

Mathews County, VA — The Mathews County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the tragic double homicide and arson that occurred last week. Through coordinated efforts involving multiple agencies, cutting-edge technology, and invaluable community support, Deputies successfully apprehended Lacey Ann Horsley and Carol Paul Cormier Jr., bringing a significant chapter of this investigation to a close.

Incident Overview

On Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 10:00 p.m., the Mathews County 911 Center received a call reporting a structure fire in the 17000 block of John Clayton Memorial Highway. Deputies from the Mathews County Sheriff’s Office along with Mathews County Fire and Rescue responded swiftly.

Upon arrival, flames were seen engulfing the front of a residential property. Firefighters fought the blaze and made emergency entry into the home, where they discovered two victims unresponsive. Despite life-saving efforts, both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.

The victims have been identified as:

• Chad Wayne Ashford, 54 years old
• Audrey Elaine Hudgins Mowrar, 56 years old

Investigators from the Virginia State Police Criminal Investigations Division assisted in processing the scene and noted multiple suspected gunshot wounds on both victims.

Investigation and Apprehension

Utilizing public tips, digital evidence, and data collected from Flock License Plate Readers, investigators traced leads to the City of Newport News.

The vehicle linked to the suspects was located, and with the assistance of the Newport News Police Department, officers attempted a traffic stop. The suspects, identified as Lacey Ann Horsley, 18, of Gloucester County, and Carol Paul Cormier Jr., 33, of Mathews County, fled on foot but were quickly apprehended.

Further investigation revealed that the victims had been shot on Thursday, July 10, 2025. The suspects then returned the following day with the intent to set the house on fire to destroy evidence.

Key evidence was recovered from the suspects’ vehicle with Newport News Police assistance, and additional evidence was located in Gloucester Point with the help of K9 Lycan from the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office.

Charges Filed

The following charges have been filed against the suspects:

Lacey Ann Horsley

• Accessory after the fact in the murders of Chad Ashford and Audrey Hudgins Mowrar (§ 18.2-19)
• Conspiracy to burn/destroy a residential structure (§ 18.2-22 / § 18.2-77)

Carol Paul Cormier Jr.

• Second Degree Murder of Chad Ashford and Audrey Hudgins Mowrar (§ 18.2-32)
• Use of a firearm in the commission of both murders (§ 18.2-53.1)
• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (§ 18.2-308.2)
• Burning or destroying a residential structure (§ 18.2-77)

Both Horsley and Cormier are being held without bond and have been transferred to the Middle Peninsula Regional Security Center.

Gratitude and Community Support

The Mathews County Sheriff’s Office extends sincere thanks to:

• The Mathews County 911 Dispatch Center for their exceptional professionalism and analytical support.
• The Newport News Police Department, Gloucester County Sheriff’s Office, and Virginia State Police CID – Fire Investigators for their vital partnership.
• Mathews County Commonwealth’s Attorney Marie Walls for her expert legal counsel.
• The Mathews Volunteer Fire Department and their Ladies Auxiliary for preserving evidence and supporting responders on scene.
• The Mathews County Rescue Squad for their ongoing assistance during the investigation.
• Most importantly, our community for their patience, cooperation, and vigilance.

This case highlights the power of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community to achieve justice and safety for Mathews County.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Mathews County Sheriff’s Office.

 

DESOTO, TX — A high-stakes pursuit through the streets of DeSoto ended in the arrest of 20-year-old Dario Franco Ramirez on the night of July 12th, following a coordinated effort between law enforcement and a vigilant resident.

The incident began around 9:45 PM when DeSoto Police received an alert from the Flock Safety Camera System, which flagged a Black Chevrolet Corvette connected to an active warrant for evading law enforcement. The vehicle, driven by Ramirez, was soon located in the parking lot of a local bowling alley.

As officers attempted to make contact, Ramirez fled, initiating a high-speed chase. In an attempt to avoid detection, he disabled his headlights and sped through the area at dangerous speeds. Officers from the Delta Shift coordinated a safe pursuit and successfully deployed spike strips, puncturing the Corvette’s tires.

Still trying to escape, Ramirez drove into a residential neighborhood and attempted to park and hide the vehicle. Fortunately, an alert resident noticed the suspicious activity and notified police immediately. Officers quickly arrived and took Ramirez into custody without incident.

A further search of the vehicle revealed that Ramirez had installed a mechanical device designed to flip or conceal the license plates—a tactic often used to evade law enforcement detection. Possession and use of such a device is classified as a Class B misdemeanor under Texas law.

DeSoto Police commend the teamwork and professionalism of the officers involved, particularly the members of the Delta Shift, whose quick thinking and coordination led to a safe resolution. They also expressed gratitude to the attentive citizen whose timely report played a critical role in Ramirez’s apprehension.

Dario Franco Ramirez is now in custody, and additional charges related to the pursuit and license plate tampering are pending. The investigation remains ongoing.

The community suffered a profound and heartbreaking loss last night. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Benjamin Bremer—a decorated combat veteran, former U.S. Army Sniper School instructor, ISC sponsor, capabilities developer in the Soldier Requirements Division, and, above all, a monumental figure within our community.

Ben’s legacy is one of selfless service, unwavering integrity, and quiet, resolute strength. For those privileged enough to know him, he wasn’t just a soldier—he was a mentor, a protector, a trusted friend, and a living example of what it means to serve something greater than oneself.

With years of service behind him, Ben’s contributions to the U.S. Army and his country are difficult to quantify but impossible to forget. As a Combat Veteran, he stood on the front lines with courage and clarity. As an Instructor at the U.S. Army Sniper School, he helped shape some of the most skilled and disciplined marksmen in the world—not just teaching the mechanics of shooting, but instilling the mental fortitude and ethical compass required to carry out such a demanding role.

Beyond his time in uniform, Ben continued to serve in critical roles. As a Sponsor with the Integrated Soldier Capabilities (ISC) and a Capabilities Developer in the Soldier Requirements Division, he was instrumental in shaping the tools, technologies, and strategies needed to protect and empower the modern warfighter. His deep knowledge, foresight, and devotion to the mission made him a key part of every team he touched.

But for all his accolades and accomplishments, Benjamin Bremer will be remembered most for who he was: a man of unshakable principles, boundless humility, and deep love for those around him. Whether it was offering guidance to a young soldier, supporting fellow veterans, or volunteering within the community, Ben led with quiet strength and purpose.

His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, colleagues, and countless others whose lives he impacted. His loss is not just one of military service or community leadership—it is the loss of a man who inspired others to stand taller, try harder, and never forget the importance of honor.

As we mourn, we also celebrate the life he lived—a life of bravery, conviction, and relentless service.

We ask that you please keep Ben’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this unimaginably difficult time. May they find strength in the outpouring of love and support that surrounds them now.

Benjamin Bremer, you have completed your watch with distinction. Your duty is done, your legacy etched forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.

Rest well, warrior.

Until Valhalla.

Funeral and memorial service details will be shared once finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to veteran support organizations in Ben’s honor.

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt grief that we announce the passing of James Norris, a beloved son, a treasured friend, and a gentle soul whose presence touched the lives of so many. James was the beloved son of Mother Norris, a woman known throughout the community for her faith, strength, and unwavering love—a love that James reflected so beautifully in the way he lived his life.

James passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a void that words cannot fill. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will be remembered forever. He was a man of quiet strength, thoughtful kindness, and deep compassion. His laughter, his warm smile, and his ability to lift others even when he himself was struggling—these are the legacies he leaves behind.

To know James was to know love, humility, and sincerity. He carried the lessons taught to him by Mother Norris with dignity and grace—always striving to do right by others, to offer help where he could, and to lead with love. Whether it was lending a listening ear, stepping up for someone in need, or simply being present with a warm heart, James made a difference in the lives of all who crossed his path.

During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that you join us in lifting the Norris and Jeter families in prayer. They are navigating unimaginable grief, and your support—through thoughts, prayers, and kind gestures—means more than words can express.

Let us honor James by holding close the values he lived by: compassion, faith, loyalty, and love. Let us remember him not only in moments of silence but in how we treat each other, how we serve our communities, and how we show up for those who need us.

Funeral service arrangements and memorial details will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, the family welcomes your condolences and reflections as they begin the process of healing.

Rest in peace, James Norris.

A son, a blessing, a light to many.

You are loved beyond measure and missed beyond words.

Your memory lives on—in our prayers, our hearts, and our lives.

Oakville, Ontario -It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jannica Peitsch, beloved mother, sister, daughter, and friend, who departed this life on July 9th, 2025, at Oakville Hospital. She was the biological mother of Tyronne, and her loss leaves a space that cannot be filled.

Jannica’s life was one marked by resilience, quiet strength, and a deep, unwavering love for her family. Those who knew her will remember her for her compassionate nature, her infectious laugh, and her ability to make others feel seen, heard, and loved. She was a woman who carried both gentleness and courage in equal measure—a rare and beautiful soul who gave her best to those she loved, even through her own storms.

Her journey was not without hardship, but Jannica met every challenge with dignity and grace. To her loved ones, she was more than a mother—she was a guide, a protector, a source of comfort, and a quiet force who stood by others even when she herself was weary. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, especially in Tyronne, whose connection to her was deep and everlasting.

In these tender and difficult days, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff at Oakville Hospital who cared for Jannica in her final moments with compassion and respect. Their dedication ensured that she left this world with dignity and peace.

Details regarding Jannica’s funeral service and celebration of life will be shared in the coming days. The family asks for privacy as they navigate this profound loss but welcomes your prayers, kind words, and loving memories.

As we mourn, we also celebrate the beautiful life Jannica lived—the love she gave, the warmth she brought, and the legacy she leaves behind in those who will carry her memory forward.

Rest in peace, Jannica Peitsch.

You will always be remembered.

You will always be loved.

Your spirit lives on.

OPELIKA, Ala. — Authorities in Opelika are urgently searching for Tempest Vanshay Reese, a 35-year-old woman accused of committing a fatal stabbing in the early hours of Sunday morning. The tragic incident unfolded in the 600 block of Comanchee Drive and has left a community in shock and a family mourning the sudden, violent loss of a young woman.

The victim has been identified as Janiah Thomas, 22, of Opelika. Police say the stabbing occurred around 2:00 a.m. on July 13. Emergency responders were called to the scene following reports of a disturbance, and upon arrival, they found Thomas suffering from multiple stab wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders and medical personnel, Thomas was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators have since identified Tempest Reese as the primary suspect in the homicide. The motive behind the attack has not been publicly disclosed, and authorities have not confirmed whether the two women knew each other or what may have led to the violent altercation. However, they are treating Reese as armed and dangerous and urge the public to avoid approaching her under any circumstances.

A Community in Mourning

The death of Janiah Thomas has sent ripples of grief through the Opelika community. Friends and family members describe her as vibrant, loving, and full of life.

“She was always smiling, always had a hug for everyone,” said a childhood friend. “She didn’t deserve this. Nobody does.”

Social media has since been flooded with tributes and heartbreak, with many demanding justice and answers. A candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned in Janiah’s memory as loved ones struggle to come to terms with her loss.

Help Needed: Have You Seen Tempest Reese?

Authorities are now asking for the public’s help in locating Tempest Vanshay Reese. As of Sunday night, she remains at large. Her current whereabouts are unknown, and law enforcement officials are working around the clock to track her down.

If you have any information regarding the location of Tempest Reese, please contact:

• Opelika Police Department: (334) 705-5220
• Secret Witness Hotline: (334) 745-8665

Anonymous tips are welcome. Police stress that even the smallest detail could help bring justice to Janiah and closure to her grieving family.

A Plea from Authorities

“We are asking anyone who may have seen or heard something in the area of Comanchee Drive in the early hours of Sunday morning to please come forward,” said an Opelika Police spokesperson. “Tempest Reese should be considered dangerous. Do not try to confront her—just call us immediately.”

In the wake of this tragedy, Opelika police have also increased patrols in the surrounding neighborhoods and are encouraging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.

As the investigation continues, one young life has been senselessly taken, and a community is now rallying for answers and accountability. This case serves as a painful reminder of how quickly violence can shatter lives—and how vital it is for communities to come together in pursuit of justice.

Rest in peace, Janiah Thomas.

Gone far too soon. Never forgotten.

DOWAGIAC, Mich. — A summer night turned deadly in the city of Dowagiac, and now police are urgently seeking the public’s help in locating a person of interest connected to the tragic shooting of a 19-year-old Benton Harbor man.

According to the Dowagiac Police Department, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday night in the area of Cherry Street near Halstead Street. Authorities say a heated argument broke out between two men during a gathering or party, and that confrontation escalated into gunfire.

The 19-year-old victim, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of family, reportedly fled the scene on foot after being shot. Friends quickly came to his aid and rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts and those of emergency medical staff, he later succumbed to his injuries.

Police are now looking for 24-year-old Demorrio Lowes of Cassopolis, identifying him as a person of interest in the fatal shooting. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether Lowes was directly involved in the altercation or the shooting itself, but say he is someone they urgently need to question.

The Search for Justice

The tragedy has left the victim’s family and friends reeling, and the community shaken by the violence that erupted in a neighborhood that residents say is usually peaceful.

“You hear about these things on the news, but you don’t expect them to happen right here in Dowagiac,” said one nearby resident who asked not to be identified. “That young man didn’t deserve to lose his life like that. It’s heartbreaking.”

As part of their ongoing investigation, police have increased patrols in the area and are conducting interviews with witnesses who attended the gathering. Surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses is also being reviewed.

Demorrio Lowes is described as a 24-year-old Black male from Cassopolis. Authorities are asking anyone who may know his whereabouts or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious Saturday night to come forward. They caution that Lowes should not be approached and that anyone with information should call law enforcement immediately.

How You Can Help

If you have any information about the incident or the location of Demorrio Lowes, please contact the Dowagiac Police Department or call Cass County Crime Stoppers at (800) 342-STOP. Tips can be given anonymously, and in some cases, cash rewards may be offered for information leading to an arrest.

As of Sunday night, no arrests have been made, and the name of the victim is being withheld out of respect for the family.

The investigation remains active, and police are urging the community to remain calm but vigilant.

A Community Grieves

While the details continue to unfold, the emotional toll is already being felt across Benton Harbor and Dowagiac. Friends of the victim have begun to post tributes on social media, remembering him as a kind and loyal young man with a promising future ahead.

“He was always smiling, always trying to lift people up,” wrote one friend. “We can’t believe he’s gone. This isn’t fair.”

Community leaders are also calling for peace and unity, stressing the need to prevent further violence and to support the grieving family.

As authorities work to piece together exactly what led to the deadly confrontation, one truth remains painfully clear: another young life has been lost to senseless violence, and another family is left to mourn in the wake of unimaginable grief.

This is a developing story. WNDU will provide updates as more information becomes available.

LONDON — A routine afternoon turned into a scene of chaos and horror as a business jet crashed at London Southend Airport on Monday, just after 4:00 p.m. local time, sending thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the summer sky. The crash sparked a massive fireball visible from miles away, halting operations at the regional airport and triggering a large-scale emergency response.

Eyewitnesses described a deafening roar followed by a tremendous explosion as the aircraft, believed to be a mid-size private business jet, went down near one of the main runways. Several individuals at the scene reported feeling the ground shake from the blast.

“I was watching planes take off with my son when we saw it,” said Louise Grant, a local resident. “The jet was coming in low and fast—it didn’t look right. Then there was this huge flash and fire, followed by a towering column of smoke. It was terrifying.”

Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, including multiple units from Essex Fire and Rescue, East of England Ambulance Service, and Essex Police. Firefighters battled intense flames as they worked to contain the blaze and prevent further damage, while paramedics stood by to treat any potential survivors or injuries on the ground.

Officials have not yet confirmed how many people were aboard the aircraft, but sources say the jet was on approach to land when it encountered unknown difficulties. There is no official word yet on fatalities or injuries, but authorities have indicated that the situation is “serious and developing.”

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) have both been notified and are expected to launch a full investigation into the crash. Air traffic was suspended at Southend Airport immediately after the incident, and flights are being redirected while investigators and emergency crews secure the scene.

In a statement Monday evening, a spokesperson for Southend Airport said:

“We can confirm that a serious incident involving a business jet has occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m. local time. Emergency services are on site. The airport is currently closed to all air traffic. Further details will be shared as soon as they are available.”

The identity of the aircraft, its ownership, and its flight origin remain unconfirmed, though aviation tracking data suggests it may have been a chartered jet en route from mainland Europe. Witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be struggling during its descent, but no mayday call was made before the crash.

As of Monday night, emergency crews continue to work at the site. The fire has been brought under control, but charred wreckage and scorched tarmac remain behind—haunting evidence of the tragedy that unfolded in broad daylight.

Local officials have urged the public to avoid the area and to allow first responders and investigators to do their work. Travelers with flights scheduled through London Southend are advised to check with their airlines for alternative arrangements.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the broader aviation industry, raising urgent questions about what went wrong and whether more lives could have been at risk.

More updates will follow as authorities release additional information. For now, the hearts of a city—and a nation—are with those affected by today’s devastating crash.

For six agonizing days, Thad Heartfield searched tirelessly through the thick brush and along the unforgiving riverbanks of the Texas Hill Country—retracing the final known steps of his son. He marked trees with X’s, clung to hope with each passing hour, and prayed against the quiet, haunting stillness of the water. That silence was finally broken this weekend.

Aidan Heartfield has been found.

The news has struck a heavy blow to all who hoped for a miracle. Aidan, just 22 years old, was swept away on the evening of July 4—a night that was supposed to be filled with celebration, laughter, and love. But in a matter of moments, what began as a joyful gathering turned into a nightmare.

When the waters surged with terrifying speed, Aidan didn’t hesitate. He leapt into action to protect those around him—his girlfriend Ella, and their close friends Reese and Joyce. Caught off guard by a sudden flash flood, the group scrambled for safety. Aidan, with the courage that defined his character, jumped in to help guide them to higher ground.

He never made it back.

His body was discovered days later, and positively identified through DNA. The news has shaken not just his family, but the entire community who rallied behind the Heartfields in their desperate search. The outpouring of support—prayers, volunteers, messages of hope—offered glimpses of light in a devastatingly dark time. Now, that same community mourns alongside a grieving father, family, and all who knew and loved Aidan.

🙏 Aidan died a hero. His final act was one of selflessness and love—a reflection of the kind of man he was in life. A protector. A loyal friend. A young man full of promise, humor, heart, and courage. His loss leaves a silence deeper than any riverbed, and a wound that words will never fully heal.

To Thad Heartfield and the entire Heartfield family—we are holding you in our hearts. We see your pain, and we honor your son’s bravery. No parent should have to endure such a loss, and yet in your search, you showed the world the enduring strength of love.

To Ella, Reese, Joyce, and all who survived—your lives are a living tribute to Aidan’s final sacrifice. May his memory stay with you every step forward, and may you feel his presence in the moments when you need it most.

To Aidan: your light remains. In the trees your father marked. In the hands you tried to save. In the love you gave so freely. You are not forgotten.

Rest in peace, Aidan Heartfield.

A son, a friend, a hero.

Gone too soon, loved forever.