Search Results for: Fire
Man with history of crime opens fire, leaving woman brain dead in Gillette shooting
Javier Abeyta allegedly opens fire, leaving woman brain dead in Gillette shooting
GILLETTE, Wyo. — A man has been charged after he allegedly shot a woman at a residence on O’Henry Drive while exhibiting erratic behavior. Javier Abeyta, 43, reportedly gunned down Marissa Allen on the night of October 9 after she tried to take a pistol away from him.
According to an arrest affidavit, Abeyta had been using methamphetamine before the shooting. Witnesses say he opened fire when Allen attempted to disarm him during a confrontation. The police report noted that Allen’s boyfriend was also involved in the incident.
Allen reportedly observed Abeyta with a “blank stare” before he aimed his weapon at her boyfriend. The gun malfunctioned while targeting the boyfriend, leading Abeyta to then shoot Allen.
After the incident, Abeyta allegedly admitted to shooting Allen to a witness. “I shot her,” he reportedly said.
Abeyta’s sister informed the police that he had been acting paranoid and required medical attention earlier that day. Witnesses described him as believing that others were trying to kill him.
Law enforcement recovered evidence, including a bullet from the drywall and the 9 mm handgun connected to Abeyta. Following the shooting, Allen was transported to a hospital and later airlifted to a medical center in Colorado, where she was declared brain dead.
Authorities indicate that Abeyta has a significant criminal history, with multiple previous arrests. He was being held on a $1 million bond for attempted second-degree murder and aggravated assault, with potential upgrades to murder charges pending Allen’s condition.
Gunfire erupted, leaving one woman dead and raising questions about Abeyta’s mental state.
Fatal fire claims one life and two pets in Bensalem
Fatal fire claims one life and two pets in Bensalem
BENSALEM, PA – A house fire claimed the life of a 77-year-old resident and two pets on Tuesday, according to local officials. Bensalem Fire Rescue, the Bensalem Volunteer Fire Department, and Bensalem Police responded to the scene shortly after 1:52 PM in the 3000 block of Gilbert Drive.
Upon their arrival, firefighters found no visible signs of smoke or fire but detected dark soot on the window interiors. They entered the residence through the front door and discovered the deceased resident, Allan Schoppy, in a chair in the living room alongside a deceased pet dog and cat.
Fire investigators reported that the fire had self-extinguished prior to their arrival, indicating it likely occurred overnight. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, although authorities stated it does not appear suspicious.
The Bensalem Fire Department continues to urge residents to practice smoke alarm safety and preparedness measures. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers within households.
Fire officials have not released additional details about the investigation. The community mourns the loss of Schoppy and his pets.
A tragic household fire takes the sole life and two cherished pets of a Bensalem resident.
Westover home goes up in flames in early morning fire
Firefighters battle Westover blaze, contain damage to home
STAMFORD, CT – Firefighters here responded to a structure fire at 162 Skyview Drive in the Westover neighborhood on Thursday morning. The call came in at 8:53 AM.
Engine 9 arrived on scene in under three minutes and found heavy flames coming from the front door of the single-family residence. Firefighters began extinguishing the fire on the first floor while others addressed flames that had spread to the second floor.
Additional firefighters focused on providing ventilation to the roof, allowing smoke and heat to escape from the attic. All occupants of the home had evacuated prior to the Fire Department’s arrival, with no injuries reported among residents or personnel.
The fire was deemed under control by 9:34 AM, but firefighters remained on the scene for an hour to conduct an overhaul and monitor for any remaining hot spots. The home sustained significant damage from fire and smoke, necessitating the relocation of its occupants.
A total of approximately 40 personnel, including five Engine Companies, one Truck Company, and one Heavy Rescue Company, responded to the incident. Support was also provided by the Stamford Police Department and Stamford Emergency Medical Services.
An investigation into the cause and origin of the fire has been initiated by the Stamford Fire Marshal’s Office.
The early morning fire raised immediate concerns for the safety of residents but was contained swiftly, preventing further disaster.
Toms River man sentenced to six years in prison for firearm offense
Toms River man sentenced to six years in prison for firearm offense
TOMS RIVER, NJ – Amir Reid, 32, of Toms River, was sentenced to six years in New Jersey State Prison by the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C. on October 10. The sentence includes a five-year period of parole ineligibility following Reid’s guilty plea to being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm.
The incident leading to the sentence took place on July 2, 2023, at approximately 5:20 p.m. Officers from the South Toms River Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop on a 2016 Chevrolet Impala after discovering that the vehicle’s registration was expired.
During the stop, Reid was driving the vehicle with a male passenger. Officers reported that Reid could not provide valid proof of registration or insurance. The officers then ordered both occupants to exit the vehicle while the South Toms River Police Department Narcotics Detection K-9 Unit performed an open-air sniff.
The K-9 alerted officers to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search uncovered a quantity of methamphetamine and a loaded 9mm Taurus semi-automatic handgun. Due to a prior conviction for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Reid was classified as a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm in New Jersey.
Both Reid and the passenger were taken into custody and charged. They were transported to the Ocean County Jail but later released due to New Jersey Bail Reform. Reid exonerated the co-defendant passenger on the day of his guilty plea, leading to dismissal of charges against that individual.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer commended Assistant Prosecutor Lynn Juan and the South Toms River Police Department for their roles in this case. “We appreciate the diligent efforts of all involved in bringing this case to a close.”
Reid’s sentencing underscores the state’s commitment to enforcing strict firearm possession laws while emphasizing police and prosecutorial cooperation.
A Toms River man faces significant prison time for illegally possessing a firearm.
Montclair community mourns the loss of beloved retired firefighter
Montclair community mourns the loss of beloved retired firefighter
MONTCLAIR, NJ – The Montclair Police Department has issued condolences following the passing of Retired Firefighter Marc Williams. The department recognized Marc as a significant figure in the Montclair community.
In a statement, the police department expressed that “his infectious smile and warm personality will be sincerely missed.” The statement highlighted Marc’s impact on community members throughout his service.
The Montclair Fire Department also addressed the loss, noting Marc’s dedication to the community. The department stated that many knew him for his commitment to helping others.
Marc Williams was often recognized as a pillar of the community, offering support and friendship to countless individuals. His legacy will be remembered by those he touched during his time as a firefighter.
The announcement of Marc’s passing comes as the community reflects on his contributions. Friends, family, and colleagues have shared heartfelt memories in his honor.
Community members are encouraged to remember Marc warmly and recognize his lasting effect on the town. His legacy will continue through the lives he impacted.
The Montclair Police Department’s statement emphasizes the void left by Marc’s absence.
Marc Williams’s legacy as a cherished member of the Montclair community endures in the memories of those he served.
Two Arrested After Gunfire Strikes Homes in Columbus
Headline: Two Arrested After Gunfire Strikes Homes in Columbus
COLUMBUS, OH – On Friday, officers responded to gunfire reports in the 2100 block of Ruskin Ave. The incident occurred at approximately 3:58 p.m. when police were dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that multiple residences had been struck by gunfire. Two suspects were taken into custody shortly after the incident.
The suspects include 20-year-old Jayion Hurse and a 15-year-old juvenile. Both have been charged with improperly discharging a firearm into a habitation.
Police are continuing their investigation.
Details regarding the specific circumstances surrounding the incident have not been released.
This event highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in urban areas.
Two individuals are now facing serious charges after allegedly firing a weapon in a residential neighborhood.