Author: Admin

In Loving Memory of Jaime Dick: A Life Taken Too Soon

The Dayton, Ohio community is mourning the tragic and senseless loss of Jaime Dick, a 33-year-old mother of two, whose life was violently cut short in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The circumstances surrounding her death have left family, friends, and neighbors in shock and deep sorrow, as they remember her as a devoted mother, loving partner, and cherished member of the community.

According to the Dayton Police Department, officers were dispatched around 2 a.m. after a 911 call from Jaime’s boyfriend, 34-year-old Jayme Rogers. In the call, Rogers allegedly admitted to shooting Jaime, saying, “She got what she deserved,” and declaring he wasn’t “going out without a f—ing fight.”

When police arrived near Jaime’s home, they found her slumped in the driver’s seat of a running car with multiple gunshot wounds. Bullet casings were scattered on the street and sidewalk, and the passenger window of the vehicle had been shattered, according to court records. Rogers reportedly walked out of a nearby residence and repeatedly admitted to shooting her.

A Beloved Mother and Friend

Jaime Dick’s life was defined by her love and dedication to her children. As a mother, she devoted herself to raising her two children, nurturing them, and providing guidance, support, and affection. Her family remembers her as someone whose presence brought warmth, care, and joy into the lives of those around her.

Friends and community members recall Jaime’s kindness, her generosity, and her ability to make those around her feel valued and loved. She was a person who left an imprint on her community, and her absence is deeply felt by all who knew her.

A Community in Shock

The violent circumstances of Jaime’s death have left Dayton shaken. Incidents of domestic violence and murder strike at the heart of families and communities, leaving lasting scars. Her passing has sparked discussions about safety, support for victims, and awareness of domestic violence, underscoring the importance of vigilance and intervention.

Authorities have charged Jayme Rogers with multiple offenses, including murder, felonious assault, having a weapon while under disability, and firing a gun on or near prohibited property. His bond was set at $1 million, and his next court appearance is scheduled for February 20.

Honoring Jaime’s Memory

While the circumstances of her death are tragic and horrifying, it is Jaime Dick’s life — not the violence that ended it — that must be remembered. She was a mother, a daughter, a friend, and a neighbor whose love and presence will not be forgotten.

Her children, family, and friends carry forward her memory in the laughter, love, and lessons she shared. In times of sorrow, communities can find strength in honoring the life lost, supporting the grieving, and ensuring that the memory of those taken too soon is preserved.

Forever in Our Hearts

Jaime Dick’s life may have been cut tragically short, but her impact endures. She will be remembered for her love, her devotion to her children, and the light she brought into the lives of those who knew her.

Rest in peace, Jaime Dick. Your life mattered, your love was immeasurable, and your memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved you.

In Loving Memory of Wuaniata Gibson: A Young Life Tragically Lost

With heavy hearts, we remember Wuaniata Gibson, an 18-year-old from St. Louis, whose life was tragically cut short. Her body was recovered from the Mississippi River near Festus on February 16 and was positively identified on February 18. Wuaniata had been reported missing from St. Louis City on December 24, 2025, leaving family, friends, and the community in anguish for nearly two months.

Barge workers discovered her remains near River Cement Road, just south of Festus, and immediately alerted authorities. The body was recovered and transported to the St. Louis County Medical Examiner’s Office for examination. Wuaniata was last seen on December 22 in the Baden neighborhood of St. Louis.

While authorities continue their investigation into the cause and circumstances of her death, today we pause to honor the life Wuaniata lived and the impact she had on those who knew her.

A Life Remembered

Wuaniata Gibson was a young woman full of promise, dreams, and the potential of a bright future. At 18, she was on the cusp of adulthood, filled with aspirations and the possibility of carving out her own path in the world. Friends and family remember her for her vibrant spirit, her laughter, and her unique presence that left a mark on everyone she encountered.

Though her life was tragically cut short, the love she shared with her family, the memories created with her friends, and the moments that defined her young life will forever remain cherished.

A Family’s Heartbreak

For her family, the loss of Wuaniata is an unimaginable tragedy. Missing her for nearly two months only intensified the pain, and the confirmation of her passing has brought grief beyond words. Parents, siblings, and loved ones are left navigating a sorrow that no one should endure, while holding onto the memories of the young woman they loved so deeply.

During this painful time, family members and the community have shared their prayers, support, and calls for justice, hoping to honor Wuaniata’s memory and seek answers to the questions surrounding her death.

A Community in Mourning

The discovery of Wuaniata’s body has left the St. Louis community heartbroken. Neighbors, classmates, and friends have expressed their grief, offering condolences and sharing memories of her life. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones every day.

Community members are rallying around the family, offering support, comfort, and solidarity as they navigate the overwhelming sorrow of losing someone so young and full of potential.

Forever in Our Hearts

Wuaniata Gibson’s life may have been brief, but her memory will endure. She will be remembered for the light she brought to the lives of those who knew her, for the love she shared, and for the dreams she carried.

As her family mourns, we join them in holding her memory close, sending thoughts, prayers, and love to help them through this heartbreaking time.

In St. Louis and beyond, Wuaniata’s life will be honored, her legacy remembered, and her spirit cherished.

Rest in peace, Wuaniata Gibson. Gone too soon, but never forgotten. Prayers for your family and loved ones. 🙏

In Loving Memory of Da-Quain Johnson: A Life Lost Too Soon in Grand Rapids

The city of Grand Rapids is mourning the tragic loss of Da-Quain Johnson, who died Thursday morning after being shot by police officers the previous night. Da-Quain, remembered by those who knew him as a beloved son, friend, and member of the community, was taken from his family far too soon.

According to Grand Rapids Police Department, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. near M.L.K. Jr. Street and Eastern Avenue. Officers had been alerted to a man riding a bicycle who was potentially armed. When police attempted to make contact, Da-Quain fled on his bicycle. Officers followed him to a parking lot behind a nearby apartment complex, where a police canine was deployed. Deputy Police Chief Joseph Trigg noted that the dog likely bit Da-Quain, but he continued resisting and struggling with officers. Da-Quain was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased the following morning.

A Son and Loved One

Da-Quain Johnson was more than the circumstances surrounding his passing. To his mother, who spoke with local reporter Matt Witkos, he was her cherished son — a young man with hopes, dreams, and a life full of potential. Friends describe him as someone who brought energy, presence, and laughter to those around him.

His loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of family, friends, and the Grand Rapids community. Those who knew him remember his kindness, his humor, and the bonds he nurtured with the people who mattered most to him.

A Life Remembered

Though Da-Quain’s life ended tragically, it is important to honor the person he was: a son, a friend, and a neighbor. He was someone who had his own story, his own passions, and his own journey — all of which were cut far too short. Family and friends are now holding onto the memories of his laughter, his conversations, and the moments that made him uniquely himself.

Communities often rally around those affected by tragedy, and in Grand Rapids, the impact of Da-Quain’s passing is deeply felt. Friends, neighbors, and local organizations are expressing condolences and sharing their grief, keeping his memory alive in stories, photos, and remembrances.

A Community in Mourning

The events of that Wednesday night have left many in Grand Rapids reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of connection. Tragedies involving law enforcement are complex and emotional, touching everyone — from family and friends to the wider public.

As investigations continue, the community is holding space to grieve, to remember, and to honor Da-Quain’s life. The love he shared and the impact he made on those around him cannot be measured by headlines or news reports.

Forever in Our Hearts

Da-Quain Johnson’s life may have been brief, but the memories of him will endure. His family, friends, and community will continue to hold him in their hearts, cherishing the time they had with him and the moments that defined his life.

May his loved ones find strength in one another.

May his memory live on as a reminder of the love, laughter, and light he brought into the world.

Rest in peace, Da-Quain Johnson. Your life mattered, your presence was felt, and you will never be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Officer Caleb Abney

With heavy hearts, we honor the life of Officer Caleb Abney, a dedicated law enforcement officer from Hahira, who tragically lost his life early Thursday morning while serving and protecting his community. His passing is a profound loss not only to his family and fellow officers but also to the community he devoted his life to keeping safe.

According to the Georgia State Patrol, the fatal incident occurred around 12:09 a.m. on northbound Interstate 75 in Lowndes County. Officer Abney had pulled over a Nissan on the east shoulder of the interstate and was seated in his marked patrol vehicle with emergency lights activated when a Chevrolet Camaro veered from the northbound lane and struck the rear of his vehicle. Despite the efforts of first responders, Officer Abney was pronounced deceased at the scene.

While the circumstances are devastating, today we remember Officer Abney not for the tragic end of his life, but for the courage, commitment, and service he exemplified every day.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Officer Caleb Abney was more than a badge and a patrol car. He was a protector, a mentor, and a friend. Throughout his career in law enforcement, Caleb displayed unwavering dedication to keeping the citizens of Hahira and Lowndes County safe. He approached each shift with vigilance, integrity, and a profound sense of responsibility — qualities that earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and community members alike.

Those who worked alongside him recall his professionalism, his calm presence during high-stress situations, and his willingness to put others before himself. Officer Abney exemplified the very best of law enforcement, demonstrating courage and selflessness in every aspect of his work.

A Beloved Family Member and Friend

Beyond the badge, Caleb was a son, a brother, a friend, and a trusted confidant. Family and friends remember him for his kindness, humor, and generosity. He carried a warmth and authenticity that left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

For his loved ones, the loss is immeasurable. The absence of his presence, his laughter, and his unwavering support creates a void that cannot be filled. Yet, in their grief, they also carry the pride of knowing Caleb lived a life of purpose and meaning — a life dedicated to protecting others even at the cost of his own safety.

A Community in Mourning

The tragedy on I-75 has deeply affected the Hahira community and surrounding areas. Officer Abney’s loss is felt not only by his family and colleagues but by every individual who knew him or benefited from his service. Streets, schools, and neighborhoods pause to honor his sacrifice, reflecting on the courage it takes to serve in law enforcement.

In times like these, the strength of community support is vital. Prayers, tributes, and acts of solidarity offer comfort to those mourning, helping them navigate the pain of losing someone who dedicated his life to the safety of others.

Honoring His Legacy

Officer Caleb Abney’s legacy is one of bravery, dedication, and integrity. He will be remembered for his selfless service, his commitment to justice, and the compassion he showed to those he served. Every life he touched — from colleagues to citizens — carries forward a piece of his memory.

His courage serves as a reminder of the sacrifices law enforcement officers make daily to protect their communities. Caleb’s life was a testament to honor, duty, and the power of serving others with unwavering commitment.

Forever in Our Hearts

To the family, friends, and fellow officers of Officer Caleb Abney, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find strength in one another, comfort in the outpouring of support, and peace in the legacy he leaves behind.

In Hahira and beyond, Officer Caleb Abney will be remembered not only for the tragedy that ended his life but for the courage, service, and humanity he exemplified every day.

Rest in peace, Officer Caleb Abney. Your service will never be forgotten, and your memory will live on in the hearts of all you protected and inspired.

In Loving Memory of Victoria Overcash

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we remember Victoria Overcash, a beloved 17-year-old from Salisbury, whose life was tragically cut short in a collision on Thursday morning. Victoria’s passing has left family, friends, and the community grieving a bright young life that ended far too soon.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Brown Road near China Grove. Preliminary investigations revealed that Victoria was traveling south when her vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a garbage truck traveling north. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, Victoria was pronounced dead at the scene.

While the circumstances of the crash are deeply tragic, it is Victoria herself — her life, her spirit, and her impact on those around her — that we pause to remember today.

A Life Full of Promise

Victoria Overcash was a young woman at the beginning of her journey in life. At 17, she carried dreams, aspirations, and the boundless energy of youth. Friends and loved ones describe her as bright, full of potential, and someone whose presence brought joy and light to those around her.

Though her life was brief, Victoria’s personality and spirit left a lasting mark. She was someone who made connections effortlessly, a young person with a warmth that drew others in. Her laughter, her kindness, and her unique perspective on the world will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Family, Friends, and Community

To her family, Victoria was not just a teenager — she was a daughter, a sister, a niece, and a cherished member of their lives. Her absence is deeply felt, and the void left behind is immeasurable. In moments like these, the love and memories shared become anchors for those navigating profound grief.

Friends and peers recall Victoria’s humor, her caring nature, and the way she could make ordinary moments feel special. Her relationships were marked by sincerity, loyalty, and a genuine care for others. For those in her school, neighborhood, and community, her loss is a heartbreaking reminder of how precious and fragile life can be.

A Community in Mourning

The crash on Brown Road has deeply impacted the Salisbury community. The sudden loss of such a young life has sparked an outpouring of grief, prayers, and support from neighbors, classmates, and local organizations. In times like these, a community’s compassion becomes a source of strength, providing comfort to those most affected.

Victoria’s passing is not only a tragedy for her family but for everyone who saw her potential and the bright future she had ahead. It serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment we have with loved ones.

Forever Remembered

Though Victoria Overcash’s life was tragically short, the impact she made will endure. Her memory will live on in the stories her friends and family tell, in the laughter she shared, and in the love she gave.

To her loved ones, we extend heartfelt condolences. May you find strength in one another, comfort in shared memories, and peace in knowing that Victoria’s spirit will always be remembered.

In Salisbury and beyond, Victoria’s life will be honored, her legacy of love and light remembered, and her memory carried in the hearts of all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Victoria Overcash. Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Ebony Silas and Tashana Ballard

A Kansas City community is in mourning following a tragic shooting at Status Nightclub on Valentine’s Day that claimed the lives of two women and left others injured. The victims, identified as Ebony Silas and Tashana Ballard, were fatally shot during the early morning hours, leaving friends, families, and the broader community grappling with shock and heartbreak. Two additional individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care.

Authorities report that the suspect, Dante Brooks, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, along with additional related charges. Court documents indicate that investigators reviewed surveillance footage and collected DNA evidence at the scene, which contributed to his identification and arrest.

Remembering Ebony Silas

Ebony Silas was a woman whose life touched many. Friends and family remember her for her warmth, her infectious laughter, and her unwavering kindness. She was known to light up any room she entered, leaving lasting impressions on everyone she met. Ebony’s love for her family and friends was evident in everything she did, and her presence brought joy and comfort to those around her.

Her life was a testament to compassion and connection, and while her passing is a profound loss, the memories she created will continue to live on through those who loved her.

Remembering Tashana Ballard

Tashana Ballard was cherished for her vibrant personality and generous spirit. She approached life with energy, determination, and a love for the people in her life. Her friends often recall her ability to uplift others, to offer support without hesitation, and to bring laughter and light to challenging moments.

Tashana’s impact extended beyond her immediate circle; she was a valued member of her community, and her absence will be deeply felt. Her life, though tragically cut short, serves as a reminder of the joy, love, and energy she shared with the world.

A Community in Grief

The Valentine’s Day shooting has left Kansas City shaken. Nightlife venues, which are meant to be places of celebration and connection, were transformed into scenes of tragedy. In the aftermath, conversations about safety, security, and community vigilance have taken center stage, as people grapple with how to prevent such senseless violence in the future.

Families, friends, and community members are mourning the devastating loss of two vibrant lives, holding onto cherished memories while navigating the pain of an abrupt and violent ending. In times like these, the support of the community becomes essential — providing comfort, solidarity, and a shared space to grieve.

Honoring Their Legacy

Ebony Silas and Tashana Ballard will be remembered not for the tragedy that took them, but for the lives they lived, the love they gave, and the light they brought into the world. Their laughter, kindness, and spirit will continue to inspire those who knew them.

As the legal process moves forward and the pursuit of justice continues, their families and loved ones are left holding onto the memories of two extraordinary women.

In Kansas City and beyond, Ebony and Tashana’s lives will not be forgotten. They will live on in the hearts of those who loved them, in the stories shared, and in the communities they touched.

Rest in peace, Ebony Silas and Tashana Ballard. You are gone too soon, but your light will shine forever.

In Loving Memory of Traci Trasky and Her Beloved Son

With hearts shattered by sorrow, we remember the precious lives of Traci Trasky, 42, and her 12-year-old son, whose lives were tragically taken inside their home in Scottsville. Their passing has left an unimaginable void in their family and in the wider Allen County community.

According to the Kentucky State Police, authorities responded Wednesday night to a death investigation at a residence in the Scottsville area. Inside the home, officers discovered Traci and her young son deceased. Investigators later determined that Traci’s vehicle had been taken from the residence and was subsequently located unoccupied in a nearby neighborhood. With the assistance of local authorities and aerial drone technology, law enforcement searched the surrounding area. A 17-year-old male suspect was later taken into custody.

While investigations and legal proceedings move forward, today we center our hearts on remembering Traci and her son — not for the violence that ended their lives, but for the love and light they brought into this world.

A Devoted Mother

Traci Trasky was, above all, a mother. The bond between a mother and her child is one of life’s most sacred connections — built on unconditional love, protection, sacrifice, and hope. Traci dedicated herself to nurturing and guiding her son, shaping his world with care and devotion.

Those who knew her describe her as a woman of strength and compassion. She carried the everyday responsibilities of motherhood with dedication, always striving to create a safe and loving home. Her love for her son was evident in the way she spoke about him, cared for him, and supported him.

Her life revolved around her child — and that love will forever define her legacy.

A Young Life Full of Promise

At just 12 years old, Traci’s son was in the early chapters of his life story. He was at an age filled with curiosity, imagination, and possibility. Childhood is meant to be a time of discovery — of learning, laughter, and dreams of what the future might hold.

Friends, classmates, and community members will remember him for his youthful spirit. Whether he loved sports, video games, music, or simply spending time with friends, he had a personality uniquely his own. His smile, his voice, and his presence brought joy to those around him.

The loss of such a young life is especially heartbreaking. It represents not only what was, but what could have been — milestones that will never be reached, memories that will never be made.

A Community in Mourning

The tragedy has deeply shaken Scottsville and all of Allen County. In small communities, loss is felt collectively. Neighbors become extended family. Schools, churches, and local businesses all share in the grief.

There is sorrow. There is shock. And there is a longing for healing.

In times like these, unity becomes essential. Comfort comes through shared prayers, shared tears, and shared remembrance. The community’s embrace can help carry grieving loved ones through the heaviest days ahead.

Holding Onto Love

As legal processes unfold, it is important to remember that behind every headline are human beings whose lives mattered deeply. Traci and her son were not just victims of a crime — they were family. They were loved. They were valued.

Their memory lives on in the stories told by those who knew them. It lives on in photographs held close to the heart. It lives on in the quiet moments when their names are spoken with tenderness.

Forever Remembered

To the family and friends of Traci Trasky and her beloved son, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find strength in one another. May you find comfort in the love that surrounds you. And may the memories of Traci’s devotion and her son’s bright spirit remain a guiding light.

Though their lives were taken far too soon, their love cannot be erased.

In Scottsville, they will be remembered.

In the hearts of those who loved them, they will live on.

Rest in eternal peace, Traci and your precious son. You are gone from sight, but never from love.

In Loving Memory of Moses James Michael French

With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we remember Moses James Michael French, a beloved father, son, and friend whose life was tragically cut short in the early morning hours of February 19 in Bullhead City. He was 40 years old.

According to the Bullhead City Police Department, officers responded around 3:25 a.m. to a report of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision near Highway 95 and Hancock Road. Authorities say an unknown vehicle struck Moses while he was in the roadway and fled the scene before emergency personnel arrived. Moses was pronounced deceased at the scene.

As the investigation continues and officials work to identify the driver involved, today we pause to focus not only on the tragedy of that morning, but on the life Moses lived and the love he leaves behind.

A Devoted Father

Above all, Moses was a father. Family members shared their heartbreak publicly, revealing that he had planned to see his son later that very day. That detail — so simple, yet so powerful — speaks volumes about who he was. He was a man who looked forward to time with his child, who made plans, who carried the love of a father in his heart.

Now, that reunion will not happen as intended, and the pain of that reality is immeasurable. The bond between a father and child is one of life’s deepest connections. Though Moses is no longer physically present, the love he had for his son does not disappear. It remains — enduring and unbreakable.

A Life That Mattered

Moses James Michael French was more than the circumstances surrounding his passing. He was a 40-year-old man with experiences, dreams, relationships, and responsibilities. He had people who counted on him, people who cared for him, and people who are now struggling to make sense of a loss that feels both sudden and unfair.

Friends and loved ones describe him as someone who had his own unique presence — someone whose absence will be deeply felt in everyday moments. Whether through conversations, shared laughter, or quiet support, Moses left his mark on those around him.

A Community Seeking Answers

The hit-and-run near Highway 95 and Hancock Road has left the community shaken. There is grief, but there is also a longing for accountability and closure. Authorities continue their investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward.

In times like this, a community’s unity becomes vital. Each shared memory, each word of support, and each act of cooperation helps carry a grieving family through unimaginable pain. Justice, when pursued, is not just about answers — it is about honoring the value of a life lost.

Remembering His Legacy

Moses’ life may have ended too soon, but his story does not end here. His memory lives on in his son, in his family, and in the countless moments that defined him beyond a single tragic event.

He will be remembered for his love as a father.

He will be remembered for his presence as a friend.

He will be remembered as a man whose life had meaning.

Grief is a journey that unfolds one day at a time. For those mourning Moses, may there be comfort in the outpouring of support. May there be strength in shared memories. And may there be peace in knowing that he was loved.

Forever in Our Hearts

In Bullhead City, the loss of Moses James Michael French leaves a void that cannot be filled. Yet his spirit endures in the hearts of those who knew him best.

May he rest in eternal peace.

May his family find comfort and courage in the days ahead.

And may his son always know how deeply he was loved.

Gone too soon, but never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Corey Smaw

With heavy hearts, we remember and honor the life of Corey Smaw, a beloved son of Washington, North Carolina, whose life was tragically cut short late Wednesday night in a wrong-way crash on U.S. 64 in Martin County.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 11:30 p.m. near Everetts. Authorities reported that 47-year-old Corey Smaw was traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes when his vehicle collided head-on with an 18-wheeler hauling potatoes. Corey sadly died at the scene as a result of the crash. The driver of the tractor-trailer sustained minor injuries and was transported to ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital for treatment. One lane of U.S. 64 remained closed for approximately four hours as troopers conducted their investigation and crews worked to clear the roadway.

While the details of that night are heartbreaking, today we focus on the life Corey lived — a life filled with energy, talent, friendship, and impact.

A Standout Athlete and Competitor

For many in Washington, Corey Smaw’s name immediately brings back memories of Friday night lights and the roar of the crowd at Washington High School. As a standout running back, Corey electrified the field with his speed, determination, and athletic ability. He played with heart — the kind of heart that inspired teammates and excited fans.

Former teammates recall not only his talent but his leadership. He pushed others to be better, to train harder, and to believe in themselves. His energy on the field was contagious. Every carry of the football, every breakaway run, was fueled by passion and pride.

But Corey was more than an athlete. He was a teammate in the truest sense — loyal, encouraging, and always ready to celebrate the successes of others.

A Loyal Friend and Community Presence

Following news of his passing, social media quickly filled with tributes from friends, classmates, and community members. Many described Corey as a loyal friend — someone who showed up when it mattered most. He had a personality that drew people in, a spirit that left a lasting impression.

Those who grew up alongside him remember his laughter, his competitive nature, and the way he could light up a room. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or spending time with friends, Corey’s presence was felt.

In a close-knit community like Washington, the loss of someone so well-known and respected creates a ripple of grief. His passing has left a void not only in his family but across the broader community that watched him grow from a young athlete into a man.

A Life Remembered Beyond the Headlines

At 47 years old, Corey Smaw had lived a life marked by connection and influence. Though his time here ended suddenly and tragically, the memories he created endure. The stories shared in the days following his passing speak volumes about the type of person he was.

He will be remembered for his strength and athleticism.

He will be remembered for his loyalty and friendship.

He will be remembered for the pride he carried for his hometown.

Finding Comfort in Memories

Grief is a heavy burden, especially when loss comes without warning. Corey’s family and loved ones now face the difficult days ahead — days filled with both sorrow and remembrance. In this time of mourning, may they find comfort in the outpouring of love from friends, former teammates, and community members.

May they find peace in knowing that Corey made a difference.

May they hold tightly to the memories of his laughter and determination.

And may his legacy continue to inspire the next generation of young athletes who step onto the field dreaming big.

In Martin County and beyond, Corey Smaw will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Corey. Your race on the field may be over, but your impact will echo for years to come.

In Loving Memory of Da-Quain Johnson

With profound sorrow, we remember the life of Da-Quain Johnson, whose passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Authorities confirmed that Da-Quain, the man shot during a police encounter Wednesday night, passed away Thursday morning at a local hospital in Grand Rapids. He was taken from this world far too soon.

According to the Grand Rapids Police Department, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. near M.L.K. Jr. Street and Eastern Avenue. Officers had reportedly been alerted to a man riding a bicycle who was potentially armed. When officers attempted to make contact, Da-Quain fled on his bike. The encounter that followed ended in tragedy, and by Thursday morning, a family and community were mourning a devastating loss.

Today, we focus not on the circumstances of that night alone, but on the human being at the center of it all — a son, a friend, a loved one whose life held meaning beyond a single moment.

A Life That Meant Something

Da-Quain Johnson was more than a name in a press conference. He was a person with experiences, hopes, struggles, and relationships. He had a story shaped by his upbringing, his environment, and the connections he built along the way.

Those who knew him describe him as someone who carried his own unique presence — someone who laughed, who conversed, who navigated life in his own way. Like all of us, he was complex, layered, and human. His life mattered. His existence mattered.

A Family’s Grief

For his family, this loss is not a headline — it is heartbreak. It is the empty seat at the table. It is the phone that will no longer ring with his voice on the other end. It is memories replayed over and over, searching for comfort in moments that now feel too short.

The pain of losing a loved one so suddenly, especially under traumatic circumstances, is immeasurable. Loved ones are left grappling with shock, sorrow, and unanswered questions. They are left holding onto photographs, shared stories, and the sound of his laughter.

A Community Reflects

The events near M.L.K. Jr. Street and Eastern Avenue have left many in Grand Rapids reflecting deeply. Incidents involving law enforcement and community members often carry layers of emotion, concern, and dialogue. In the wake of Da-Quain’s passing, there is grief — and there is also a collective desire for clarity, understanding, and healing.

Moments like these remind us of life’s fragility. They urge us to extend compassion, to seek peace, and to remember that behind every investigation is a family mourning someone they love.

Honoring His Memory

As investigations continue and discussions unfold, Da-Quain’s loved ones are focused on preserving his memory. They remember his personality, his spirit, and the way he moved through the world. They remember the small, everyday moments — the ones that often matter most.

Though his life ended too soon, his impact does not disappear. The love shared with him continues to live on in those who carry his memory forward. Each story told, each tear shed, each tribute shared keeps his name alive.

Rest in Peace

To Da-Quain Johnson’s family and friends, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find strength in one another. May you be surrounded by comfort and support. And may Da-Quain’s soul find eternal peace.

In Grand Rapids, his life will not be forgotten. He will be remembered not only for how it ended, but for the life he lived and the love he inspired.

Rest peacefully, Da-Quain Johnson. You are gone too soon, but you will never be erased from the hearts of those who loved you.