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Richard “Dick” Deering, age 77, of New Carlisle, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 10, 2025. Born on December 6, 1947, in Dayton, Ohio, Dick was the beloved son of the late Fred and Elizabeth (Machunas) Deering. His life was one marked by dedication, innovation, and an unwavering love for family and community.

A proud graduate of Tecumseh High School’s class of 1967, Dick was an active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where he nurtured his passion for agriculture and leadership from an early age. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Ohio State University, earning a degree in Food Processing—a field that laid the foundation for his remarkable entrepreneurial journey.

Dick’s visionary spirit led him to establish and successfully operate several family-run businesses. Among his most notable ventures was the founding of a Lawn and Pest Care company that grew into a multi-location enterprise, serving the community with dedication and expertise. His innovative mindset extended beyond traditional business; Dick developed pioneering software solutions for the pest management industry, products that gained international recognition and are still utilized worldwide. His outstanding contributions earned him a distinguished place in the National Pest Management Association Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact and leadership in the field.

In his later years, Dick turned his attention to revitalizing the Deering Farm Market, a beloved family endeavor. Working hand-in-hand with his family, he embraced the agricultural heritage that had always been close to his heart. His love for farming and animals was profound, and he took great pride in helping his grandchildren succeed—especially as they earned Grand Champion honors at the Clark County Hog Show. Watching his grandchildren excel in athletics and animal shows brought him immense joy and was a reflection of the strong family bonds he cherished above all else.

Dick is survived by his devoted wife of over 54 years, Brenda (Stegner) Deering; their children Bridget (Mike) Adkins, Kim Deering-O’Connor, and Andy (Ashley) Deering; and his treasured grandchildren Paige (Tim) Elliot, Tye Parker (Travis Risner), Evan Parker, Carter Adkins, Collin, Hannah & Sydney O’Connor, Laineigh, Landon, Liam & Livia Deering. He also joyfully leaves behind great-grandchildren Archie & Madelyn Elliot and Lily Risner. Dick’s loving family circle extends to his sister Sandy (Jim) Ritchey, niece Carrie Howard, and nephews David, Danny, and Joe Deering.

In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his brother, Bill Deering.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Restoration Park Church, located at 55 Restoration Park Drive in Medway, Ohio, on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A service celebrating Dick’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m., with burial to take place at Medway Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tecumseh FFA at https://in-memory-of-richard-deering.cheddarup.com/. Online condolences can be shared at trostelchapman.com.

Arrangements are being provided by Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home.

Dick Deering’s legacy of love, dedication, entrepreneurship, and community spirit will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His life was a shining example of how passion, hard work, and kindness can leave a lasting imprint on both family and community alike.

With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking story of Alexis Pineda and her late husband, Roland Chavez. Just a mile from home, on their way back to their children, their lives were forever changed by a devastating accident caused by a speeding driver who ran a red light.

Roland, 42, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but tragically succumbed to his injuries. Alexis, 37, survived but at an unimaginable cost. She has undergone five major surgeries, endured weeks in the hospital and rehab, and now faces a new reality confined to a wheelchair, living with nerve damage and the physical aftermath of plates and screws holding her body together. Beyond the physical pain, Alexis carries the weight of a heart that may never fully heal.

Their children are left grappling with loss and confusion. Two daughters cry themselves to sleep, missing their father, who proudly embraced his role as a “girl dad.” Their autistic son, once anchored by his father’s steady presence, now struggles to find his footing in a world without him.

Despite the tragedy, no one has yet been held accountable for the accident that took Roland’s life. There is no justice, only grief.

In the midst of this overwhelming heartbreak, Alexis is fiercely trying to rebuild a life for her children from the wreckage. She needs our support, prayers, and kind words now more than ever.

Please join us in lifting up this family with love and compassion during this incredibly difficult time. Their journey toward healing is long, and our solidarity can be a source of strength.

With heavy hearts and tearful voices, we share the heartbreaking story of Cruz Cortez — a devoted father, loving husband, and grandfather — who tragically lost his life in a house fire on July 10th in San Juan, TX. At 72 years old and recovering from eye surgery, Cruz was vulnerable and alone inside his burning home, unable to see or escape the danger closing in. While his family and neighbors desperately called for help, the unthinkable happened — Cruz perished in the flames, leaving behind a family shattered by grief and a community haunted by the silence where rescue should have been.

His niece, Marissa Bautista, is now the voice for her broken family, crying out for justice and recognition in a moment when cameras have gone dark and their pain feels invisible. She is not seeking sympathy, but prayers — prayers for strength, for healing, and for answers. Marissa carries the heavy burden of loss, pleading for the world to remember Cruz’s life and the unimaginable suffering endured in his final moments.

This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and the urgent need to stand together in support of those left behind. If you are moved by Marissa’s plea, please join in sending your prayers, your support, and your voice. Let’s ensure Cruz Cortez is never forgotten, and that his family feels the strength of a community standing with them in their darkest hour.

To Marissa and the Cortez family: We see your pain. We stand with you. May your uncle’s soul rest in peace, and may justice and healing find their way to your hearts.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, the community of Casa Bonita, Texas, mourns the tragic loss of Madelyn “Emmy” Jeffrey, an 11-year-old whose life was cut short during the recent devastating floods that swept through the area. Emmy’s radiant smile and warm, loving spirit touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her, leaving an unforgettable impression on friends, family, and neighbors alike.

As the community grapples with this heartbreaking loss, neighbors and local organizations have rallied around Emmy’s family, offering unwavering support and comfort in these incredibly difficult times. Plans for a memorial service are being organized to celebrate Emmy’s life, allowing all who loved her to come together, share memories, and honor the bright light she brought into their lives.

Though her time with us was far too brief, Emmy’s memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched, a lasting reminder of her kindness, joy, and the preciousness of every moment. Casa Bonita stands united in grief and in hope, cherishing the legacy of a beautiful young soul gone too soon. #casa_bonita

It is with immense sorrow and broken hearts that we share the devastating update regarding the disappearance of Aaron Hall, who was reported missing from Mount Moriah on July 8.

After days of tireless searching, Aaron’s body was found earlier today. The news no family ever wants to hear has become our reality. While we are utterly heartbroken, we are also deeply grateful—for the community that came together, for every message, share, prayer, and word of support, and especially to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Search and Rescue crews who never gave up.

Aaron was not defined by the circumstances of his passing. He was so much more—a vibrant spirit, a brother with a heart of gold, a loyal friend who could brighten any room with his infectious smile and his relentless supply of dad jokes. His kindness, humor, and compassion touched many, and his memory will live on in every person he made laugh and every heart he warmed.

This is a loss we are struggling to comprehend. Our family is shattered, and we kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and begin the long process of healing.

To those reading this: if you or someone you love is struggling, please know this—you are not alone. There is help, and there is hope. Reach out, talk to someone, and take the first step toward light in the darkness.

Aaron, your absence leaves a silence that echoes endlessly. But your love, your laughter, and your spirit will never fade. Rest easy, dear brother. We will carry you in our hearts always.

GRAY, LA — A Louisiana State Trooper has been arrested and placed on administrative leave following a disturbing domestic violence incident reported in Lafourche Parish. According to Sheriff Craig Webre, 28-year-old Brent Crochet was taken into custody on Friday afternoon, July 11, after deputies responded to a domestic disturbance at his residence in Gray, Louisiana.

Deputies from the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO) arrived on the scene following a call involving a dispute between Crochet and a person with whom he was in a relationship. During the investigation, statements from the victim and physical evidence indicated that Crochet had struck the individual in the face, threatened her with a firearm, and intentionally damaged her cell phone during the altercation.

As a result of the investigation, LPSO detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Crochet earlier in the day on July 11. He voluntarily turned himself in and was booked into the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex on the following charges:

• Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault
• Domestic Abuse Battery
• Simple Criminal Damage to Property

Crochet was subsequently released after posting $45,000 bail. Per departmental policy, he has been placed on administrative leave while the incident is under internal investigation.

In a brief statement, Sheriff Webre emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that law enforcement officers must be held to the highest standards of conduct—on and off duty. “We take all allegations of domestic violence seriously,” said Webre. “No one is above the law, and we will continue to uphold accountability and justice for all parties involved.”

The Louisiana State Police have not yet released an official comment regarding Crochet’s employment status beyond confirming his administrative leave.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns surrounding domestic violence within law enforcement ranks, and underscores the need for transparency and swift legal action when public trust is at stake.

The case remains under active investigation, and further details may be released as proceedings continue.

For those experiencing domestic violence, help is available 24/7. Please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

ARLINGTON, TX — A tragic act of domestic violence has left the Arlington community reeling after a murder-suicide at a local salon claimed the life of 41-year-old entrepreneur Todd Austin, founder of Credit Champs, and his former partner, T’Mone Michelle Williams, age 37.

The incident unfolded on the afternoon of Friday, July 11, 2025, at Salon and Spa Galleria, located at 7807 South Cooper Street, Suite 115. According to the Arlington Police Department, officers responded to emergency calls reporting a shooting inside the business. Upon arrival, they found Todd Austin unresponsive; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities identified T’Mone Michelle Williams as the shooter. She was found at the location with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

Preliminary investigations indicate the incident stemmed from an ongoing domestic dispute between Williams and Austin, who shared a child together. Police say the shooting appears to have been targeted, occurring while Austin was receiving a haircut at the time of the attack.

Todd Austin was a respected figure in the world of credit repair and financial empowerment. As the founder of Credit Champs, he built a reputation as a mentor, business credit coach, and funding strategist, helping clients across the country understand and rebuild their financial lives. His contributions to financial literacy and economic advancement made a meaningful impact in countless lives, particularly within the small business community.

The news of his untimely death has prompted an outpouring of grief and disbelief, especially among clients, colleagues, and those who benefited from his guidance and mentorship. Tributes have flooded social media, remembering Austin as an inspiring, dedicated professional who was passionate about helping others reach financial stability and freedom.

The Arlington Police Department continues to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the shooting and encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

This devastating tragedy not only marks the loss of a community leader but also underscores the seriousness of domestic violence and the lasting toll it takes on families and communities.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, resources are available. Help is out there. Please reach out.

LOS ANGELES — Dominic Rios, a 21-year-old resident of Hemet, California, has been arrested and federally charged after allegedly aiming a laser pointer at a helicopter operated by the Los Angeles Police Department, creating a potentially hazardous situation for the flight crew.

The incident occurred on June 10, 2025, while the LAPD was conducting aerial surveillance over downtown Los Angeles during protests. According to the criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, the police helicopter, flying at an altitude of approximately 950 feet, was struck three times by a green laser beam. Each strike lasted several seconds, lighting up the cockpit and forcing the pilot to adjust course to avoid further exposure.

Officers in the helicopter were able to identify the source of the laser and directed ground units to the location near a parking lot. Responding officers apprehended Dominic Rios, who was found with a green laser pointer in his possession. After being read his Miranda rights, Rios reportedly admitted to using the device to aim at the aircraft.

Testing conducted by LAPD confirmed the laser pointer was hazardous to human eyes. Officials noted that each strike created a serious safety risk and that the pilot had to take evasive action during the incident.

Rios was arrested on July 7 by FBI agents, following the complaint that had been filed on June 27. He has since made an initial appearance before a federal magistrate and was released on bond pending further court proceedings. If convicted, Dominic Rios could face up to five years in federal prison.

“This kind of behavior poses a real threat to aviation safety,” said authorities. The FBI and LAPD, who jointly conducted the investigation, emphasized the dangers of laser interference with aircraft. In 2023 alone, the FAA reported more than 13,000 laser strike incidents across the U.S., underscoring the growing concern among aviation and law enforcement professionals.

Assistant United States Attorney Derek Flores is prosecuting the case.

Federal officials are reminding the public that laser pointers, though seemingly harmless, can blind or distract pilots, risking serious accidents. Anyone caught pointing a laser at an aircraft can face fines, felony charges, and imprisonment.

FERGUSON, MO – Two men are behind bars on $1 million bond each following their arrests in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Brandon Haywood, Sr., which occurred on July 1, 2025, in the 1700 block of Windward Court.

Following an intensive investigation, detectives identified and apprehended two suspects:

• Daron Ellis Wilson, 25, of Ferguson
• Damon L. Hampton, 28, of St. Louis

Officers with the Ferguson Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered Haywood lying in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead.

Following an intensive investigation, detectives identified and apprehended two suspects:

• Daron Ellis Wilson, 25, of Ferguson
• Damon L. Hampton, 28, of St. Louis

Both men have been formally charged with First-Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action and are currently being held at the St. Louis County Justice Center, each on a $1 million bond.

According to authorities, the incident began as a verbal dispute between Hampton and Haywood outside a residence on Windward Court. Haywood initially returned inside his home after the confrontation but soon came back outside. At that moment, Wilson allegedly opened fire, striking Haywood multiple times. As Haywood collapsed, Hampton is also accused of pulling a weapon and firing additional shots at the already-injured man.

The brutality and coordination of the attack stunned the community and prompted an all-hands-on-deck effort by investigators. Chief Troy Doyle commended his team’s swift work and dedication:

“Our detectives worked around the clock to resolve this case. While we know that solving the case won’t bring back the family’s loved one, we hope that finding and holding the perpetrators accountable will help them begin the healing process.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and police continue to gather evidence and pursue any additional leads. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further charges.

Community members are encouraged to come forward with any additional information by contacting the Ferguson Police Department’s tip line.

As always, all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

WEST CHICAGO, IL — A DuPage County judge has denied pre-trial release for Imani Nickson, 23, of Aurora, after she was arrested and charged for allegedly threatening her employers with a loaded handgun during a workplace dispute that was livestreamed on Facebook.

The decision came after State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and West Chicago Police Chief Colin Fleury confirmed that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the State’s motion to hold Nickson in custody.

Nickson, of the 600 block of N. Harrison, faces two counts of Intimidation (Class 3 Felony), and two counts each of Misdemeanor Aggravated Assault and Disorderly Conduct.

According to investigators, on July 10, 2025, at approximately 11:56 a.m., West Chicago police responded to a call reporting an armed individual at Evans and Son Blacktop, located at 3N775 Powis Road. Upon arrival, officers were met by a visibly distressed female victim outside the business, who stated that Nickson was armed inside the building with another victim.

Police entered the building and recovered a loaded Glock 43x handgun from Nickson, who allegedly surrendered without incident. An investigation revealed that Nickson, upset about a pay dispute, entered the workplace, pulled out the firearm when asked to leave, and proceeded to livestream the confrontation over Facebook Live.

Authorities allege that Nickson pointed the weapon directly at the face of the female employer—who is currently pregnant—and made verbal threats to shoot the male employer. The female victim managed to escape and alert authorities.

“This type of behavior—pointing a loaded weapon at someone over a workplace issue—is not only criminal, it’s terrifying,” said State’s Attorney Berlin. “We are grateful that no one was physically harmed and commend the West Chicago Police Department for their swift action in de-escalating the situation.”

Nickson was also allegedly in possession of 9.5 grams of methamphetamine at the time of her arrest. She is charged with criminal solicitation with intent to commit murder, criminal attempt to commit murder, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver.

“This was an extremely dangerous and volatile situation,” added Chief Fleury. “Brandishing a firearm in this manner could have resulted in tragedy. We take incidents like this very seriously, and there will be zero tolerance for such conduct in our community.”

Nickson’s next court appearance is scheduled for August 4, 2025, in front of Judge Brian Telander.

As a reminder, all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.