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In Loving Memory of Malik Richards

The close-knit community of Buena Vista is mourning the devastating loss of 30-year-old Malik Richards, whose life was tragically taken in a shooting during the early morning hours of February 20, 2026.

According to the New Mexico State Police, dispatchers received reports at approximately 12:44 a.m. of multiple gunshots near 69 County Road C011. Within minutes, officers were directed to a nearby residence after a call reported that a man had been shot. Despite emergency response efforts, Malik Richards did not survive his injuries.

While investigators continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, the focus for many remains on remembering the man whose life ended far too soon.

A Life of Purpose and Presence

At just 30 years old, Malik was in the prime of his life — a time often marked by ambition, growth, and building a future. He was more than a victim of violence; he was a son, a friend, a family member, and a valued part of his community. Those who knew Malik describe him as someone with strength of character and a presence that left an impression.

Friends recall his laughter and his ability to connect with others. Family members speak of his heart, his loyalty, and the love he showed to those closest to him. His life held meaning far beyond the tragic moment that ended it.

A Community in Shock

In communities like Buena Vista, news of a shooting reverberates deeply. The stillness of early morning broken by the sound of gunfire has left neighbors shaken and grieving. Such acts of violence create ripples of sorrow that extend well beyond one household.

Residents are now grappling with both grief and reflection — mourning a life lost while hoping for peace and safety within their community. In times like these, unity becomes essential. Support systems strengthen, and neighbors lean on one another in shared sorrow.

Honoring Malik’s Memory

Though Malik’s time on earth was cut short, his impact endures. The memories he created — shared meals, conversations, milestones, and quiet everyday moments — now become treasured reminders of who he was.

As authorities continue their investigation, loved ones are left navigating the painful road of loss. Yet even in grief, there is remembrance. Malik Richards will be remembered for the life he lived, the relationships he built, and the love he gave.

To his family and friends, the community extends heartfelt condolences. May they find comfort in one another, strength in unity, and peace in the cherished memories that will forever keep Malik’s spirit alive.

Rest in peace, Malik Richards. Your life mattered, and you will not be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Luke Richard Brittan

The community of Polk County is mourning the tragic loss of 68-year-old Luke Richard Brittan of Independence, Oregon, whose life was cut short in a devastating crash involving a Salem-Keizer school bus on Monday morning. The collision occurred at the intersection of Highway 22 and Highway 51 and has left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with profound grief.

According to the Oregon State Police, troopers responded to the two-vehicle collision on February 23, 2026, at approximately 9:51 a.m. A preliminary investigation revealed that a westbound Salem-Keizer Thomas school bus, operated by 33-year-old Chandra Jean Milkovich-Howard of Turner, attempted to make a left turn onto southbound Highway 51. During the turn, the bus entered the path of an eastbound Honda Pilot driven by Luke Brittan, resulting in a head-on collision. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but tragically, Luke was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A Life of Dedication and Connection

Luke Richard Brittan was a cherished member of the Independence community. At 68, he had lived a life full of experiences, relationships, and contributions that extended far beyond the moments of this tragic accident. Family, friends, and neighbors remember him as a kind and dependable individual — someone who brought warmth and steadiness into the lives of those around him.

He was more than a driver on Highway 22 that morning. He was a father, a friend, a mentor, and a neighbor whose presence mattered deeply. Those who knew Luke speak of his thoughtful nature, his generosity, and the quiet ways in which he impacted the people around him. His loss leaves a void that cannot be replaced, a silence in the everyday rhythms of his community that will be felt for years to come.

A Community in Mourning

Crashes involving school buses are rare but particularly jarring because they involve public safety and children’s welfare. Though no students were reportedly harmed in this incident, the emotional impact on all involved — including bus driver Chandra Milkovich-Howard — and the broader community has been profound. Residents of Polk County are grappling with both shock and sorrow, reflecting on the fragility of life and the suddenness with which tragedy can strike.

Highways that once served as familiar routes for commuters are now the backdrop for mourning, and neighbors have expressed condolences and support for Luke’s family. Vigils, shared memories, and public statements of sympathy are helping to honor his life while providing comfort during this painful time.

Remembering Luke Brittan

In remembering Luke Richard Brittan, the focus remains on celebrating the life he lived, the love he shared, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind. He will be remembered for his compassion, his steady presence in the community, and the countless ways he made a difference in the lives of those who knew him.

To his family and loved ones, the community extends its deepest sympathies. While the pain of this loss is immeasurable, the outpouring of support from neighbors and friends serves as a reminder that Luke’s life was valued, cherished, and impactful.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Luke’s memory will endure in the hearts of all who loved him. May he rest in peace, and may his family find strength and comfort in the enduring legacy of his life.

In Loving Memory of Jesús Rangel-Magallón

The community of Yakima is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 16-year-old Jesús Rangel-Magallón, whose life was tragically cut short in an act of violence early Sunday morning. His passing marks the first homicide of 2026 in Yakima County, leaving family, friends, classmates, and neighbors grappling with profound grief.

According to Yakima County Coroner Marshall Slight, Jesús died from a gunshot wound to the torso following a shooting near North 5th Avenue and West D Street. Despite emergency response efforts, he did not survive his injuries. The devastating news has sent shockwaves throughout the city, especially among those who knew him personally.

A Young Life Full of Promise

At just 16 years old, Jesús stood at the threshold of adulthood — a season of life meant for discovery, growth, and dreams of the future. He was a son, a friend, a classmate, and a young man with his entire life ahead of him. Those who knew Jesús describe him as kind-hearted and full of youthful energy, someone who carried both innocence and ambition in equal measure.

Teenage years are often filled with plans — aspirations for graduation, career goals, friendships that feel unbreakable, and milestones waiting to be celebrated. For Jesús and his loved ones, those anticipated moments have been heartbreakingly interrupted.

His absence will be felt in school hallways, in neighborhood streets, and at family gatherings where his laughter once echoed. The void left behind is immeasurable.

A Community in Sorrow

Acts of violence affect more than just one family — they ripple outward, touching entire communities. In Yakima, residents are reflecting not only on the pain of losing a young life but also on the urgent need for unity and compassion in the face of tragedy.

The location near North 5th Avenue and West D Street, once an ordinary part of daily life, is now marked by sorrow and remembrance. Flowers, candles, and quiet prayers may serve as small gestures of love for a life taken too soon.

As authorities continue their investigation, the focus for many remains on honoring Jesús’ memory and supporting those closest to him.

Holding Onto His Memory

Jesús Rangel-Magallón will be remembered not for the violence that ended his life, but for the life he lived in his 16 short years. He will be remembered for his smile, his friendships, and the promise he carried. His story matters. His name matters.

To his family, who now face the unimaginable pain of losing a child, the community extends heartfelt condolences. May they find strength in the love that surrounds them and comfort in the cherished memories that can never be taken away.

Though his life was brief, it left an imprint. May Jesús rest in peace, and may his memory continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved him.

In Loving Memory of Paris Harris

The community of Jefferson Parish is grieving the tragic loss of 47-year-old Paris Harris of Avondale, whose life was cut short Sunday evening in a devastating motorcycle crash on Barataria Boulevard.

According to Louisiana State Police, the collision occurred just before 6 p.m. near Champagne Street. Paris was riding his 2005 Suzuki motorcycle southbound on Barataria Boulevard when a 2010 Hyundai Elantra traveling north attempted to make a U-turn and failed to yield. The motorcycle struck the passenger side of the vehicle, and the force of the impact threw Paris from his bike.

Despite emergency response efforts, Paris Harris tragically did not survive.

A Life of Strength and Spirit

Behind the details of this heartbreaking accident is a man deeply loved by his family, friends, and community. At 47, Paris had built a life rich with relationships, experiences, and stories. He was more than a motorcyclist on the roadway that evening — he was a son, possibly a brother, a friend, and a neighbor whose presence made a difference.

Those who knew Paris describe him as someone with a strong spirit and a generous heart. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his everyday interactions, he left a mark on those around him. His love for riding reflected a sense of freedom and passion — a joy that many motorcyclists understand as both a hobby and a way of life.

A Community in Mourning

News of the crash has reverberated throughout Jefferson Parish and Avondale. Motorcycle accidents are particularly devastating, often leaving families grappling not only with grief but with the suddenness of loss. One moment can change everything.

Barataria Boulevard, a familiar route for many residents, now carries a heavier meaning for those who pause to remember what happened there. The tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of how critical attentiveness and caution are on the road — especially when sharing it with motorcyclists, who are far more vulnerable in collisions.

Yet amid conversations about traffic safety and responsibility, the focus remains on honoring Paris Harris and the life he lived.

Remembering Paris

Paris’s loved ones now face the difficult journey of saying goodbye. They will remember his laughter, his voice, his presence at family gatherings, and the countless everyday moments that now feel precious. The pain of his absence will be deeply felt, but so too will the warmth of the memories he leaves behind.

In times of sorrow, communities often come together — offering prayers, condolences, and support. Jefferson Parish stands with the Harris family during this painful time, lifting them in compassion and strength.

Though his life ended far too soon, Paris Harris’s story does not end here. It continues in the hearts of those who loved him, in the memories shared, and in the legacy of kindness and connection he leaves behind.

May Paris rest in peace. May his family find comfort in the love that surrounds them. And may his memory ride on — steady, strong, and never forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Ni’Dreyah Marshall

The community of Wilkins Township is mourning the devastating loss of 17-year-old Ni’Dreyah Marshall, whose life was tragically cut short in a shooting early Monday morning at the Brentmoor at Penn Center apartments.

According to authorities, Ni’Dreyah was inside an apartment when the incident occurred. The Allegheny County Police Department reported that 20-year-old Rayohna Hexstall has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless endangerment in connection with Ni’Dreyah’s death. Investigators stated that Hexstall, Marshall, and two other individuals were inside the residence when Hexstall allegedly handled a handgun belonging to another person. The criminal complaint indicates that the weapon discharged while it was being held, striking Ni’Dreyah in the head.

While legal proceedings move forward and investigators continue their work, the focus for many remains on remembering the young life that was lost far too soon.

A Life Full of Promise

At just 17 years old, Ni’Dreyah Marshall stood on the brink of adulthood — a season of life filled with dreams, ambition, and possibility. She was a daughter, a friend, a classmate, and a young woman whose presence brought meaning to those who knew and loved her.

Teenage years are meant to be filled with milestones — graduations, celebrations, new opportunities, and the excitement of stepping into the future. For Ni’Dreyah’s family, those anticipated moments have now been replaced with unimaginable grief. The silence left behind is heavy, and the heartbreak is profound.

Friends describe her as vibrant and full of personality, someone who could light up a room with her energy. She had her whole life ahead of her — plans yet to unfold, goals yet to be achieved, and memories yet to be made. Her story was still being written.

A Community in Grief

Tragedies involving young lives resonate deeply throughout a community. In Wilkins Township and beyond, neighbors and loved ones are grappling with shock and sorrow. The loss of someone so young serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly circumstances can change.

Incidents involving firearms, especially among young people, often leave behind not only grief but also reflection. Conversations about safety, responsibility, and awareness become more urgent in the wake of such heartbreak. Yet at the center of all those discussions is a grieving family whose world has been forever altered.

Holding Onto Her Memory

As the case proceeds through the justice system, Ni’Dreyah’s loved ones are left to navigate a difficult path of mourning. In the days and weeks ahead, they will lean on one another, on community support, and on cherished memories.

She will be remembered not for the tragic circumstances of her passing, but for the joy she brought into the lives of others. Her laughter, her dreams, her individuality — these are the pieces of her that remain.

To Ni’Dreyah Marshall’s family and friends, the community extends heartfelt condolences. May they find comfort in shared stories, in photographs that capture happier times, and in the enduring love that surrounds them.

Though her life was brief, it was meaningful. May Ni’Dreyah rest in peace, and may her memory continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved her.

In Loving Memory of Joseph Boutros

The community of Newport is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 21-year-old Joseph Boutros, a student at Salve Regina University, whose life was tragically cut short on Monday.

According to authorities, officers with the Newport Police Department responded to a parking lot on Bellevue Avenue after receiving a call about an individual found unconscious inside a vehicle. When officers arrived, they discovered Joseph inside a running car while charging his phone. The vehicle was covered in snow, and the exhaust pipe was partially obstructed — a dangerous condition that can lead to the buildup of carbon monoxide inside a vehicle.

Joseph was immediately transported to Newport Hospital, where medical staff worked to save him. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced deceased. Officials determined that the cause of death was carbon monoxide poisoning.

A Bright Life with Boundless Potential

At just 21 years old, Joseph Boutros stood at the threshold of his future. As a student at Salve Regina University, he was pursuing his education, building friendships, and shaping the path that lay ahead of him. College years are often filled with hope, ambition, and discovery — a time of becoming. Joseph was in the midst of that journey.

Friends and classmates remember him as kind-hearted and thoughtful, someone who carried himself with quiet warmth. Professors and peers alike saw in him the promise of a young man working toward his goals with dedication and determination. His sudden passing has left a profound emptiness across campus, where classrooms and common spaces now feel the weight of his absence.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of a young life resonates far beyond a single campus. In Newport and within the Salve Regina community, grief is shared collectively. Students, faculty, and local residents alike have expressed sorrow and extended condolences to Joseph’s family. Vigils, prayers, and heartfelt messages reflect the impact he made in his time there.

Carbon monoxide is often called the “silent killer” — colorless, odorless, and deadly. This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the hidden dangers that can arise in winter conditions, particularly when snow obstructs a vehicle’s exhaust system. Awareness and education may help prevent similar losses in the future, but for Joseph’s loved ones, the reality of this loss is deeply personal and immeasurable.

Remembering Joseph

Beyond the circumstances of his passing, Joseph Boutros will be remembered for who he was — a son, a friend, a student, and a young man filled with potential. His laughter, his aspirations, and the simple, everyday moments he shared with others now become treasured memories held close by those who loved him.

To his family, who now face an unimaginable grief, the community extends its deepest sympathies. Losing a child is a sorrow no words can fully comfort. May they find strength in the love that surrounds them and solace in the knowledge that Joseph’s life, though far too brief, touched many.

As Newport reflects on this tragedy, we honor Joseph’s memory with compassion and remembrance. May his spirit live on in the hearts of friends and family, in the halls of Salve Regina University, and in the countless lives he influenced in his 21 years.

Rest in peace, Joseph Boutros. You will not be forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Shania Gonzalez Sanchez

The city of Chattanooga is mourning the loss of Shania Gonzalez Sanchez, whose life was tragically cut short near Sunset Rock last Friday. The National Park Service has identified Shania as the individual found deceased in the area, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her passing, including confirming details such as her age and manner of death.

Rangers with the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park responded to an emergency call on Friday, February 20. Upon arrival, they confirmed that the person involved had died. The response was supported by multiple agencies working together in a coordinated effort, including the Lookout Mountain Police, Lookout Mountain Fire Department, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton County Cave and Cliff Technical Rescue, Chattanooga Police Department, Hamilton County EMS, and the Hamilton County Medical Examiner.

A Life Remembered

While officials continue their work to understand what happened, Shania Gonzalez Sanchez is remembered first and foremost as a person — someone deeply loved by family and friends. Beyond the headlines and investigations is a life that carried meaning, relationships, dreams, and memories that will endure long after this moment of sorrow.

Sunset Rock, known for its sweeping views and peaceful surroundings, has long been a place where people gather for reflection and beauty. It is now also a place marked by grief for those who loved Shania. The natural serenity of the location stands in quiet contrast to the heartbreak felt by those who knew her.

A Community in Grief

Tragedies such as this ripple through families and communities, leaving behind unanswered questions and profound sadness. As authorities continue their investigation, loved ones are left to navigate the difficult path of mourning. The outpouring of support from the Chattanooga community reflects the compassion and solidarity that often arise in moments of shared loss.

Though details remain limited, what remains clear is that Shania’s life mattered. She was more than a name in a report — she was someone’s daughter, friend, relative, and cherished presence. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled.

Holding Onto Memory

In times like these, remembrance becomes a source of strength. Stories shared, photographs revisited, and moments recalled help preserve the essence of who Shania was. Even in sorrow, there is comfort in knowing that a life touched others in meaningful ways.

As the investigation continues, the focus for those who loved Shania Gonzalez Sanchez remains on honoring her memory. May her family find comfort in the love that surrounds them. May her friends hold tightly to the moments they shared. And may her life, though ended too soon, continue to be remembered with tenderness and respect.

Rest in peace, Shania. You are not forgotten.

In Loving Memory of Jeremy Charles

The community of Lancaster County is mourning the tragic loss of Jeremy Charles, a 39-year-old resident of Holtwood, Pennsylvania, whose life was cut short in a heartbreaking workplace accident on Monday in East Lampeter Township.

According to the Lancaster County Coroner’s Office, Jeremy was working as an employee of Amtrak alongside a crew near Greenfield Road when he was struck by a train. Emergency responders and investigators arrived swiftly at the scene, where Jeremy was found near the tracks. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced deceased. He was later transported to the Lancaster County Forensic Center, where an autopsy has been scheduled as part of the ongoing investigation.

Behind these official details is a profound human loss — a son, possibly a brother, friend, coworker, and neighbor whose presence will now be deeply missed.

A Dedicated Worker and Valued Colleague

Jeremy Charles was known as a hardworking and dependable individual. Working in the railroad industry requires vigilance, discipline, and courage. Those who dedicate themselves to such demanding roles do so with a commitment not only to their profession but to the safety and service of countless others.

Colleagues who worked alongside Jeremy are left grieving not just a coworker, but a teammate — someone who shared long hours, responsibilities, and the quiet camaraderie that forms among crews in the field. His loss is deeply felt among those who stood beside him on the job, relying on teamwork and trust each day.

A Life Rooted in Community

As a resident of Holtwood, Jeremy was part of the close-knit fabric that defines many Pennsylvania communities. In towns like his, neighbors know one another, families grow up together, and loss is felt collectively. News of his passing has spread quickly, bringing sorrow to many who knew him personally and even to those who did not but feel the weight of such a tragedy.

At just 39 years old, Jeremy was in the prime of his life. There were undoubtedly plans yet to fulfill, goals yet to reach, and countless memories still waiting to be made. His sudden passing serves as a stark reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly circumstances can change.

Honoring His Memory

As investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, the focus for many remains on honoring Jeremy’s life rather than the manner of his passing. His dedication to his work, his role within his community, and the relationships he built throughout his life stand as his true legacy.

In moments like these, words often feel inadequate. Grief settles heavily, and questions linger. Yet amid the sorrow, there is also remembrance — of shared laughter, of hard work done with integrity, and of a life that mattered deeply to those who knew him.

To Jeremy Charles’ family, friends, and colleagues, the community extends heartfelt condolences. May they find comfort in cherished memories and strength in the support that surrounds them.

May Jeremy rest in peace, and may his memory continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved and respected him.

In Loving Memory of Camden Siegel

The communities of Hartford and West Hartford are united in grief following the tragic loss of 17-year-old Camden Siegel, a beloved high school student whose life was cut short far too soon.

In the early morning hours of Sunday, just before 2 a.m., officers patrolling near 181 Ann Uccello Street — close to PeoplesBank Arena — heard gunfire ring out in the darkness. According to Lt. Aaron Boisvert of the Hartford Police Department, responding officers quickly located an unresponsive teenager at the scene.

That teen was later identified as Camden Siegel of West Hartford.

Officers rushed Camden to a local hospital, where he was listed in extremely critical condition. Despite the tireless efforts of medical professionals and the fervent prayers of family and friends, Camden succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday.

A Life Full of Promise

Camden was more than a headline or a statistic. He was a son, a friend, a classmate, and a young man with dreams still unfolding. At 17, his future stretched wide with possibility — college plans, career ambitions, milestones yet to be celebrated. Those who knew him describe a bright and thoughtful student whose presence brought light to those around him.

As a West Hartford high school student, Camden was part of a close-knit school community now grappling with unimaginable sorrow. Classrooms feel quieter. Hallways carry a heaviness. Teachers and classmates are left not only mourning his loss but also trying to comprehend how someone so young could be taken so suddenly.

A Community in Mourning

The tragedy unfolded when Camden was reportedly caught in the crossfire of a shooting. In an instant, a life filled with promise was forever altered. Incidents of violence reverberate far beyond the immediate scene — they leave lasting scars on families, neighborhoods, and entire communities.

In Hartford and West Hartford alike, residents have expressed shock and heartbreak. Vigils, messages of condolence, and tributes shared online reflect the deep impact Camden had in his short life. Friends remember his laughter, his kindness, and the everyday moments that now feel priceless.

For his family, the grief is immeasurable. Losing a child is a pain no parent should ever endure. The outpouring of love from neighbors, classmates, and strangers alike serves as a reminder that Camden’s life mattered deeply — and that he will not be forgotten.

Remembering Camden

While investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, the focus remains on honoring Camden’s memory. He was a young man standing at the threshold of adulthood, with so much left to experience and achieve.

In remembering Camden Siegel, we remember the simple yet profound truth that every young life holds immeasurable value. His story now becomes a call for reflection — on community safety, on compassion, and on the urgency of protecting the next generation.

May Camden’s memory live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May his family find strength in the support that surrounds them. And may his life, though far too brief, continue to inspire love, unity, and remembrance in both Hartford and West Hartford.

In Loving Memory of Jerry Mounce and Amanda Foster cool

The city of Owensboro is mourning the devastating loss of two lives taken far too soon following a tragic hit-and-run collision on February 18. The Daviess County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that 53-year-old Jerry Mounce succumbed to the injuries he sustained after being struck on Frederica Street. His passing comes days after 39-year-old Amanda Foster, who was struck alongside him, died at the scene.

This heartbreaking incident has left families shattered and a community grappling with grief. What began as an ordinary day ended in unimaginable tragedy for two individuals whose lives mattered deeply to those who loved them.

Jerry Mounce is remembered as a man whose life reflected strength, kindness, and dedication. At 53, he had built years of memories with friends and family who now hold tightly to the moments they shared with him. Those who knew Jerry speak of his steady presence, his willingness to lend a helping hand, and the warmth he carried in his everyday interactions. His loss is not only the absence of a life but the absence of a voice, a laugh, and a spirit that once filled rooms with familiarity and comfort.

Amanda Foster, 39, also leaves behind a legacy of love and connection. She is remembered as vibrant and compassionate, someone whose life, though cut short, made a lasting impact on those around her. Amanda’s sudden passing at the scene of the collision sent shockwaves through the community. Family and friends now find themselves navigating the pain of losing someone who still had so many dreams, plans, and milestones ahead.

Authorities have reported that the driver involved, 21-year-old Anderson Xol Ho of Guatemala, allegedly fled the scene before later returning. He is currently facing multiple charges, including murder, first-degree assault, operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol (first offense with aggravated circumstances), leaving the scene of an accident for failure to render aid or assistance, and no operator’s license. The case continues to move forward through the legal system as investigators work to ensure accountability.

Yet beyond the legal proceedings and courtrooms, there remains the deep human toll of this tragedy. Two families must now endure the unimaginable reality of life without Jerry and Amanda. Holidays will feel different. Celebrations will carry an empty space. Everyday routines will be reminders of what was lost in a single, irreversible moment.

Frederica Street, once just another stretch of road in Owensboro, is now etched in memory as the site of a profound loss. Community members have expressed sorrow and solidarity, offering prayers, condolences, and support to the grieving families. In times like these, the strength of a community is measured by how it comes together — and Owensboro has shown compassion in the face of heartbreak.

As we honor Jerry Mounce and Amanda Foster, we remember that their lives were far more than the circumstances of their passing. They were cherished individuals — family members, friends, neighbors — whose stories were still being written. Their memories will live on in the hearts of those who loved them and in the quiet acts of remembrance carried forward each day.

May Jerry and Amanda rest in peace. May their families find comfort in the love that surrounds them. And may this tragedy serve as a solemn reminder of the responsibility every driver carries — that every decision behind the wheel holds the power to protect life or to change it forever.