All posts by : Marymother Site

Chicago is once again mourning after two separate shootings late Friday night in the Loop left at least six people wounded, just hours after the city’s official Christmas tree lighting in Millennium Park. The incidents occurred during a busy evening in downtown Chicago, as large crowds had gathered for holiday festivities, including the first night of the Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza.

According to Chicago Police Department spokesman Tom Ahern, the first shooting occurred around 9:50 p.m. near the intersection of State and Randolph streets, close to the Chicago Theatre. The second took place approximately 30 minutes later near Adams and Dearborn streets. Preliminary reports indicate that at least four of the victims were wounded in the initial shooting, though conditions for all victims have not been fully confirmed.

Witnesses reported chaos as pedestrians fled the scenes. Linda Dixon, who was leaving the Chicago Theatre with a group, described the sudden panic: “We’re coming out of the theater, and everybody just started running. We almost got knocked into the street. It’s very disheartening to see this… holiday time, everybody wants to celebrate and enjoy the evening, and something like this happens.” Another witness, Moe Akl, recounted hearing at least four gunshots near CBS News Chicago, prompting him and others to take cover.

Authorities believe the victims were teenagers or young adults. Police officers were observed urging other youths in the area to leave downtown for safety. Alderman Brian Hopkins (2nd) noted on social media that multiple officers were assaulted with mace and stun devices during the incidents, with at least one officer requiring hospital care. He added that one of the shooting victims was in critical condition, suffering a life-threatening gunshot wound to the torso.

These shootings follow a troubling pattern, as last year on November 23, 2024, another shooting occurred during Christkindlmarket’s opening weekend. A 19-year-old woman was shot near State and Washington streets while walking on the sidewalk, highlighting recurring safety concerns during large public gatherings in the downtown area.

As the city continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding these incidents, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. In the midst of grief and fear, the Chicago community remains resilient, committed to supporting victims and their families while striving for safer streets during the holiday season and beyond.

The Tiffin, Ohio community is mourning a tragedy of unimaginable depth—a heartbreaking loss that has shaken family members, friends, neighbors, and all who have learned of the devastating events that unfolded. Our deepest and most sincere condolences go out to everyone affected by the deaths of 7-year-old Wrenn, 7-month-old August, and 29-year-old Dustin Willey, whose lives were tragically taken in a murder-suicide involving their father and stepfather, Ryan Eagan. No words can fully capture the sorrow felt in the wake of this event, nor can they express the enormity of grief now carried by the loved ones left behind.

In moments like these, families and communities struggle to understand what cannot be understood. What remains clear, however, is the profound love that surrounded these young children and the man who was senselessly taken from those who cherished him. Wrenn, remembered as bright, lively, compassionate, and full of promise, brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. Baby August, only seven months old, was a source of joy and light—an infant whose gentle presence filled his family with hope for the future. Dustin Willey, a devoted father, son, and friend, is remembered for his kindness, his hardworking spirit, and his unwavering love for his children.

Their loss leaves a void that can never be filled, and those grieving now face a journey no parent, relative, or loved one should ever have to walk. The mother of Wrenn and August, who endured unimaginable trauma, remains in the thoughts and prayers of countless people. Her strength in the face of such overwhelming sorrow is something no one should ever have been asked to summon.

During this dark and painful time, the community stands united in compassion—lifting up these families with love, support, and heartfelt sympathy. May the memories of Wrenn, August, and Dustin bring some measure of comfort in the days ahead, and may those who are suffering find the strength and healing needed to move forward.

To the families grieving these irreplaceable lives, please know you are not alone. The community holds you close, honoring the lives lost and mourning with you in profound sorrow and solidarity.

The community of Mandeville, Louisiana stands in deep concern and heartfelt solidarity with the family of Landon Rahaim, the 14-year-old boy who has been missing since November 18, 2025. Landon was last seen near 946 Dupard Street in Mandeville, and since that moment, countless family members, neighbors, friends, and community members have united in prayer, support, and hope for his safe return.

At just 14, Landon is known by those closest to him as an exceptionally bright, kind, witty, and athletic young man—someone full of promise, potential, and goodness. To the neighbors who watched him grow, he was not just a child next door, but a cherished part of their extended family. They remember him as thoughtful, funny, serious when needed, and always full of life. These memories speak to the remarkable young person Landon is and to the many lives he has already touched with his warmth and spirit.

Those who love him describe a young man who simply needs guidance, stability, and the reassurance of how deeply valued he is. Their words reflect a profound love and devotion—one that is unwavering even in the face of fear and uncertainty. Expressions of heartbreak from former neighbors, family friends, and community members all echo the same plea: that Landon be found safe, protected, and brought home to the people who care for him immeasurably.

Landon’s family has courageously asked the public for help, urging anyone with information to contact the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department. Their strength during this unimaginable time has been met with an outpouring of compassion, prayers, and community support. Those who knew Landon as a child—and those who have only just learned his story—are holding him close in their thoughts, hoping for his safety and well-being.

To Landon: You are loved more than you know. Your family, your community, and all who care about you are waiting with open arms. May you feel the protection, guidance, and strength being lifted up for you.

To the Rahaim family: the community stands with you, praying for comfort, hope, and the swift return of your son.

May Landon be found safe, and may love lead him home.