Search Results for: fire

Man with history of crime opens fire, leaving woman brain dead in Gillette shooting

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

Fire truck racing to the emergency scene. File photo

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

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 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 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

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.

Man charged with murder and arson after deadly Columbia fire

Fire truck enroute to call.

Man charged with murder and arson after deadly Columbia fire

COLUMBIA, MO — Brandon Butchkoski, 47, faces murder and arson charges after allegedly setting Donovan Baylis, 31, ablaze on his own porch, leading to fatal injuries. The incident occurred on June 15 shortly before midnight at a residence on Paris Road.

According to court documents, multiple residents reported a series of fires at the same location. Police suspect Butchkoski is linked to at least three fire incidents, which involved the use of backpacks filled with accelerants.

On the night of the incident, Baylis reportedly went outside to extinguish a fire on the porch, which had been ignited by Butchkoski. Witnesses stated that Baylis became engulfed in flames while attempting to put out the fire.

Another resident described hearing and seeing Baylis on fire and intervened using a garden hose. The court documents indicate that Baylis sat on a retaining wall before collapsing.

Witnesses reported a gas can was positioned on the porch railing at the time of the fire. Butchkoski allegedly fled the scene on a BMX-style bike.

On June 29, Butchkoski returned to the residence and allegedly started another fire by throwing an accelerant-filled backpack onto the roof. He was arrested on July 3, initially charged with arson.

Additional charges were filed after Baylis died from his injuries on July 14. Prosecutors charged Butchkoski last week with second-degree murder and first-degree arson. He is currently in custody awaiting his court date.

Butchkoski has a history of legal troubles, including several drug arrests and charges of unlawful possession of a firearm.

With a series of fire incidents and a tragic death, this case continues to unfold in Columbia.

Hagerstown man arrested after setting fire in storage unit, injuring woman

Hagerstown man arrested after setting fire in storage unit, injuring woman

Hagerstown man arrested after setting fire in storage unit, injuring woman

HAGERSTOWN, MD — A Hagerstown man was arrested for allegedly setting a fire inside a storage unit that resulted in injuries to a female victim early Thursday morning. Authorities report that the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Leviathan Godwin, engaged in an argument with the victim prior to the incident.

Emergency responders from Halfway Volunteer Fire Company received a call about a building fire at Halfway Self Storage located at 17324 Virginia Avenue at approximately 8:00 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find an 8-by-40-foot storage unit engulfed in flames but managed to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby units.

Deputy State Fire Marshals quickly arrived on the scene and learned that the victim, who lived in the storage unit, had to escape through flames after Godwin allegedly ignited the fire with the intention of killing her. Fire officials transported the victim to Meritus Medical Center for smoke inhalation treatment.

Deputies distributed a photo of Godwin in the vicinity, leading to a sighting at a nearby Sheetz convenience store where he was taken into custody without incident. “I am grateful that the victim sustained only minor injuries,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray.

Godwin faces multiple charges including first and second-degree arson, attempted second-degree murder, and reckless endangerment. He is currently held at the Washington County Detention Center.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal reminds the public that storage units are not suitable for habitation and can pose safety risks. Officials encourage individuals experiencing homelessness to seek safer housing options.

A Hagerstown man faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to kill a woman in a fire, marking a potential tragedy that left a victim injured but alive.

Parkville High School student arrested after bringing firearm to school

Parkville high school student arrested after bringing firearm to school

Parkville High School student arrested after bringing firearm to school

PARKVILLE, MD — A 16-year-old student has been charged as an adult following an incident at Parkville High School on a recent Thursday. The arrest occurred around 11:30 a.m. when officials responded to the 2600 block of Putty Hill Ave.

Administrators reported that the student ran away as they attempted to search the student’s book bag. Witnesses claim they saw what appeared to be the handle of a handgun as the student exited the school premises.

A School Resource Officer quickly apprehended the student. After the arrest, police discovered an unloaded firearm discarded nearby.

During a thorough search of the area, officers also found a magazine that had been left behind. The student now faces charges related to possession of a handgun.

Law enforcement is committed to maintaining safety within the school environment. The incident underscores the continued vigilance required by school officials and law enforcement.

The teenager is currently being processed as an adult under handgun violations.

In a statement regarding the incident, school officials ensure that proper measures are in place for student safety.

This situation highlights the challenges schools face concerning security and student behavior.

Firefighters Battle Blaze at Stamford High-Rise

Firefighters battle blaze at stamford high-rise

Firefighters Battle Blaze at Stamford High-Rise

STAMFORD, CT—Fire broke out in a downtown Stamford apartment building at 444 Bedford Street on Tuesday night. Stamford firefighters were dispatched at 11:41 p.m. and arrived on the scene in under three minutes to find smoke and fire visible from the building’s top floor.

Engine 1 and Truck 1 from Central Fire Headquarters, along with a Stamford Public Safety drone unit, provided valuable video footage to the Combined Emergency Communications Center. The Shift Commander escalated the situation to a second alarm, mobilizing more fire units to the scene.

In total, 5 Engine Companies, 3 Truck Companies, and 1 Heavy Rescue Company, along with two Deputy Chiefs, responded. With 40 fire department personnel engaged, the fire was brought under control in 25 minutes, with the majority of the damage contained to its origin area.

Firefighters remained for an additional hour, assisting the Stamford Fire Marshal’s Office in their ongoing investigation. Support was also provided by Stamford Emergency Medical Services, Training, and Mechanical Divisions.

No injuries were reported among firefighters or residents. Deputy Chief Matt Palmer noted, “Due to the time of day and location of this fire, the immediate efforts of Stamford firefighters prevented any injuries to the residents of this building.”

Swift action by Stamford firefighters prevented a potentially devastating scenario.