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JASPER COUNTY, Texas — A devastating crash on U.S. Highway 96 has left a Texas community grieving after a fatal two-vehicle collision claimed the lives of 79-year-old Carolyn Brewster and 66-year-old James Pedigo, and left another person seriously injured on Monday afternoon, May 25, 2026.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has confirmed additional details surrounding the tragic incident that unfolded just south of Jasper near County Road 296, an event that brought emergency responders, law enforcement, and medical teams rushing to the scene in an urgent attempt to save lives.

According to DPS, the crash occurred at approximately 1:58 p.m. when a northbound Volkswagen SUV reportedly crossed into the southbound lane of traffic for reasons still under investigation. The vehicle collided head-on with a Dodge pickup truck, resulting in catastrophic damage and immediate life-threatening consequences.

Authorities confirmed that the driver of the Volkswagen SUV, identified as Carolyn Brewster, was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Justice of the Peace. Her passing marks a sudden and heartbreaking loss, leaving behind unanswered questions and grieving loved ones.

In the Dodge pickup, the driver, identified as Debra Pedigo of Weatherford, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported by emergency medical services to CHRISTUS Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont for urgent treatment. Her condition remains a focal point of concern for family and community members hoping for recovery.

A passenger in the same vehicle, identified as James Pedigo, was also pronounced deceased at the scene by a Justice of the Peace. His loss adds another layer of sorrow to an already devastating incident that has deeply affected two families.

Emergency crews worked for an extended period at the crash site as both directions of travel were impacted. Southbound lanes of Highway 96 were shut down while officials conducted crash reconstruction and cleared debris from the roadway. Traffic was diverted through a temporary detour, causing significant delays throughout the afternoon.

Witnesses reported a heavy emergency response presence, with multiple agencies coordinating efforts under difficult conditions as investigators worked to determine exactly what led to the fatal lane departure.

The Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. At this time, officials have not released further information regarding possible contributing factors, and the investigation remains active and ongoing.

As families begin to process the unimaginable loss and uncertainty left in the wake of this tragedy, the Jasper County community joins together in mourning those whose lives were forever changed in a matter of moments on a quiet Texas highway.

Their names now rest in memory, carried by those who loved them, as investigators continue seeking answers and healing slowly begins in the days ahead.

PLEASANT HILL, Mo. — A community is mourning the loss of 45-year-old Amy Coon of Strasburg, Missouri, following a tragic shooting incident that occurred on May 25, 2026, at the Price Chopper located at 2101 N. State Route 7 Highway in Pleasant Hill. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation remains active as officials continue to piece together the events that led to the deadly encounter.

Amy Coon, a Pleasant Hill native and 1999 graduate of Pleasant Hill High School, is being remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend. Her passing has left family, friends, and members of the broader community heartbroken as they reflect on a life that was deeply rooted in connection, love, and community ties.

According to the Pleasant Hill Police Department, the shooting prompted an immediate response from law enforcement on the afternoon of May 25. Investigators say the incident unfolded in the parking lot of the grocery store, where multiple individuals were present when the violence occurred. During the chaos, a 16-year-old juvenile from Pleasant Hill was also injured and was transported to a local hospital, where officials confirmed the teen is currently in stable condition.

Authorities later identified the suspect as 27-year-old Allen Prince of Pleasant Hill, Missouri, who has since been formally charged by the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office. Charges filed include First Degree Murder, three counts of Armed Criminal Action, and two counts of First Degree Assault. Officials confirmed that Prince remains in custody with no bond and is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at a local hospital.

Investigators reported that during the incident, two individuals in the parking lot who were legally armed attempted to confront the suspect. Authorities say that at that point, the situation escalated further, and the suspect turned the firearm on himself. Law enforcement continues to review evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage as they work to establish a complete timeline of events.

The sudden and violent nature of the incident has left the Pleasant Hill community shaken. For many who knew Amy Coon, the tragedy is not defined by the circumstances of her passing, but by the life she lived and the relationships she built throughout her years in the community. Friends and loved ones describe her as someone who valued family deeply and whose presence brought warmth and familiarity to those around her.

As news of her death spreads, tributes continue to emerge from those who knew her best, remembering her as a steady and caring presence whose impact extended far beyond her immediate family. Her loss is being felt not only in Strasburg and Pleasant Hill but across all communities where she left her mark.

Local authorities, including the Pleasant Hill Police Department, the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, are jointly handling the ongoing investigation. Officials have stated that additional information will be released as it becomes available.

In the midst of ongoing inquiries, the focus for many remains on honoring Amy Coon’s life and supporting those affected by this tragedy. Her memory now stands as a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community in times of grief.

In loving memory of Amy Coon — a mother, grandmother, and beloved community member whose life will be remembered with love, respect, and sorrow. Rest peacefully.

With deep sorrow, the community mourns the loss of Rashod Leonard, 21, whose life was tragically cut short following a shooting in Columbus’ Olde Towne East neighborhood early Monday morning.

Rashod’s passing has left family, friends, and loved ones grieving an unimaginable loss. At just 21 years old, he was at the beginning of his life’s journey, with dreams, goals, and a future that has now been heartbreakingly interrupted. The suddenness of his death has shaken those who knew him and left many searching for comfort and understanding in the wake of tragedy.

According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers were called around 2 a.m. to the area of South 22nd and East Fulton streets after reports of a shooting. When they arrived, they found Rashod suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead at 2:25 a.m., despite efforts by medical personnel to save his life.

As investigators continue to work the case, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear. No details have been released regarding a suspect or motive, and police continue to gather evidence and speak with witnesses in hopes of finding answers.

While authorities piece together what happened, those who knew Rashod are left to reflect on the life he lived rather than the way it ended. Friends and family remember him for the moments shared, the laughter, and the presence he brought into their lives—memories that will continue to live on even in his absence.

His death adds another painful chapter to the growing concerns about gun violence in communities across the city. Loved ones now face the difficult journey of grief, holding onto memories while struggling with the weight of such a sudden loss.

In times like this, communities often come together in support, offering prayers, strength, and compassion to those left behind. Rashod Leonard’s name is now remembered among far too many young lives lost too soon.

Though his time here was brief, his memory will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Rest in peace, Rashod Leonard — gone too soon, but never forgotten.

INDIANAPOLIS — A man has died following a shooting early Sunday morning on the city’s east side, identified as 29-year-old Za Sean Davis, with police arresting 31-year-old Quinton Sanders as a suspect in the case, according to the Marion County Coroner’s Office and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD).

The Marion County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Za Sean Davis. Authorities confirmed that Davis was found suffering from gunshot wounds inside a vehicle at a housing subdivision and was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.

According to Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), officers were dispatched just after 4:10 a.m. Sunday to the 1700 block of James Run Way following reports of a domestic disturbance and a person shot. The location is situated northwest of the intersection of U.S. 52/Brookville Road and Bade Road on the city’s east side.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a man inside a vehicle suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Emergency responders provided immediate aid before transporting him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

IMPD confirmed that the case is being investigated as a homicide and noted that a person of interest was detained near the scene shortly after the incident. Investigators remained in the area throughout the morning and into the afternoon as they worked to gather evidence and interview witnesses.

Officials later confirmed that the person of interest was arrested and booked into the Marion County Jail on a preliminary charge of murder. The suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Quinton Sanders. Detectives continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the shooting and the nature of the relationship, if any, between those involved.

Authorities also noted that this is at least the second homicide reported in the Bade Woods housing subdivision in the past five months, raising ongoing concerns among residents in the area. Police have not yet released details about a possible motive as the investigation remains active.

Investigators are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips can be directed to IMPD Detective TyAnn Lambert at 317-327-3475 or Detective Kyle Hoover at kyle.hoover@indy.gov.

As the investigation continues, community members are left grappling with another act of violence in the neighborhood, while authorities work to piece together the events that led to the deadly encounter on James Run Way.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation.

PETAL, Miss.— Authorities have identified the victim of a devastating flash flood that swept through parts of Petal on Monday afternoon, resulting in a tragic loss of life that has left the community in shock.

Forrest County Coroner Lisa Klem confirmed Tuesday morning that the victim is 36-year-old Rachael Floyd of Oak Grove. Officials stated that no autopsy will be performed.

The incident occurred near the Petal Walmart on Byrd Boulevard when a white SUV was suddenly caught in rapidly rising floodwaters. According to reports, Floyd was inside the vehicle as conditions quickly deteriorated and water levels began to rise with little warning.

Witnesses at the scene attempted to render assistance as the situation unfolded, but the powerful current overwhelmed the area. The SUV was ultimately swept under by floodwaters despite efforts to help those inside. Floyd was later recovered on the opposite side of Highway 42 near Strahan’s. The submerged vehicle was retrieved from the water several hours after the incident.

The suddenness of the flooding has raised concerns among residents and officials alike, as many describe how quickly the water levels escalated in what appeared to be an otherwise routine afternoon. Emergency responders worked throughout the area to manage the aftermath and secure affected roadways.

City officials in Petal are scheduled to hold a press conference to address the incident and provide further updates regarding Monday’s severe flooding event. Authorities are expected to discuss safety concerns and ongoing response efforts in the wake of the disaster.

This remains a developing story, and officials are continuing to gather information surrounding the circumstances of the flood and its impact on the community. Residents are being urged to stay informed as additional updates become available.

WDAM 7 will continue to provide coverage as more details are released.