Author: Localinpeace

Katen Atwell Elizabethtown, KY — The Elizabethtown community is grieving the tragic loss of Katen Elizabeth Atwell, a beloved 15-year-old whose life was cut short in a devastating incident on January 11, 2026. Katen’s passing has left family, friends, classmates, and neighbors in profound sorrow as they remember her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her.

Katen was born on July 9, 2010 in Bardstown, Kentucky, to her loving parents Cory Scott and Felicia Carney Atwell. A student in Hardin County, she was known for her bright smile, her love for family, and her generous heart. A member of the Antioch Christian Church in Willisburg, Katen valued her faith and the time she spent with those she cherished.

Tragically, Katen’s life ended following a shooting outside a Lowe’s parking lot in Elizabethtown. According to authorities, the fatal shooting occurred during an early-morning meeting with another teen and a 21-year-old man whom both teens had met through social media. Emergency responders arrived on scene after reports of gunfire and found Katen unresponsive; she was later pronounced dead at Baptist Health Hardin.

Katen’s family described her as a cherished daughter, sister, and friend — someone who loved “country stuff, big trucks, her nieces and nephews, and her family with her whole heart.” Her younger life, though tragically brief, was filled with laughter, curiosity, and the warmth she shared so freely with others.

She is survived by her parents, Cory and Felicia Atwell; her siblings, Austin Elliott, Marlie Atwell, and Leslie Elliott; her maternal grandparents, Patricia Dick and David Leslie Carney; and her paternal grandmother, Elizabeth O’Rear. Katen was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Ivan “Toby” Atwell, and her paternal step-grandfather, Donald O’Rear.

Family, friends, and the broader community have expressed shock and heartbreak at the loss of a young life taken far too soon. Tributes reflect on Katen’s bright personality, her kindness, and the lasting joy she brought to everyone who knew her.

Funeral services were held at 12 Noon on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Carey & Son Funeral Home in Elizabethtown, with visitation earlier in the day. Following the service, Katen was laid to rest with the love of her family and community surrounding her.

Katen Elizabeth Atwell will be remembered for her bright spirit, her love for family, and the joyful presence she shared with others. Though her life was brief, the impact she had on those around her will be treasured and remembered for years to come.

Harpswell / Portland–Auburn, ME — The Maine coastal community is mourning the loss of Jean Appleby Johnson, 71, of Orr’s Island, who tragically died after being struck by a truck while standing beside her parked vehicle on Harpswell Islands Road on Wednesday afternoon. Authorities confirmed she was pronounced dead at the scene after the collision.

According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were dispatched shortly before 3 p.m. after a pickup truck crossed the centerline and collided with an SUV parked on the shoulder of the road. Jean, who had last been driving the SUV but was outside the vehicle at the time of the crash, was struck in the incident. Despite efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the pickup, identified as a 41-year-old man, sustained injuries that were not considered life-threatening and was taken to Maine Medical Center for treatment. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Family members, friends, and neighbors have expressed shock and grief at the news of Jean’s passing. She was remembered as a vibrant member of the midcoast community, and her loss has deeply affected those who knew her across Harpswell, Orr’s Island, and the greater Portland–Auburn area.

Details regarding memorial services and arrangements will be shared by her family when available. Jean Appleby Johnson’s passing serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have on her community.

Our thoughts remain with her family and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time.

The Ogden, Utah community is mourning the loss of Brandon Kay, whose passing has brought deep sorrow to family, friends, and all who knew him. His death has left a profound emptiness, and those closest to him are struggling to come to terms with the loss of someone who meant so much to so many.

Brandon will be remembered for the presence he carried into the lives of others. Whether through friendship, family bonds, or everyday interactions, he left an impression that will not be forgotten. Those who knew him speak of the memories shared, the moments of laughter, and the connections that made him such an important part of their lives.

As news of Brandon’s passing spread, messages of love, remembrance, and support began to pour in, reflecting the impact he had on the people around him. His absence is deeply felt, and his memory will continue to live on through the stories, relationships, and moments he shared with others.

During this difficult time, Brandon’s family has requested privacy as they grieve and honor his life. Details regarding memorial services will be shared when appropriate.

Brandon Kay will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and cared for him.

SYDNEY, Nova Scotia — The close-knit community of Sydney is mourning the profound loss of Sarah Tobin, a cherished resident whose passing has left an immense void in the hearts of family, friends, and neighbors. According to a published obituary, Tobin is remembered as a woman whose gentle nature, warm spirit, and unwavering compassion defined a life that made a lasting and meaningful impact on everyone she encountered.

Sarah Tobin obituary: Sarah Tobin, a beloved and integral part of the Sydney community, has passed away. Those who knew her describe a person of extraordinary kindness and empathy, gifted with a unique ability to make others feel truly welcomed, understood, and comforted, whether through thoughtful words or her simple, reassuring presence.

Her generosity was a quiet, constant force, evident not in grand gestures but in the everyday acts of care that brightened the lives of her circle. Family was the cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted daughter, sibling, partner, and friend, building deep connections rooted in trust, respect, and unconditional love. The memories of shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and meaningful time together are now precious treasures for her grieving loved ones.

Within the wider Sydney community, Tobin was admired for her quiet strength, integrity, and the genuine value she brought to every interaction. Her absence creates a palpable void in the familiar spaces of her hometown.

As the community comes together to support one another, Sarah Tobin’s legacy stands as a powerful testament to a life lived with profound care for others. Her memory, defined by the love she freely gave and the countless lives she gently touched, will continue to inspire and comfort all who were fortunate to know her. May her family find strength in the community’s embrace and in the cherished memories she leaves behind.

EDINA, Minn. — The Edina community is mourning the passing of Collin Dobin, a respected and cherished resident who died on January 14, 2025. His death has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from friends, neighbors, and colleagues, all remembering a man whose quiet integrity, dependability, and thoughtful nature made a lasting positive impact on those around him.

Collin Dobin obituary: Collin Dobin, a valued member of the Edina community, has passed away. While official details regarding the circumstances of his passing have not been publicly disclosed, the confirmation of his death has unified those who knew him in shared grief and reflection on a life marked by strong character and meaningful relationships.

Described by friends as approachable, sincere, and deeply compassionate, Dobin was known for his ability to listen, support, and encourage others, often prioritizing their needs. In both his professional and personal life, he was celebrated for a calm demeanor, a strong sense of responsibility, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. “He was someone you could always trust and rely on,” a longtime colleague shared. “His thoughtfulness and steady presence made a real difference.”

Throughout Edina, Dobin built a legacy defined not by grand gestures, but by consistent kindness, honesty, and mutual respect. Community members recall his positive spirit, subtle humor, and the genuine concern he showed for everyone he encountered.

Collin Dobin is survived by his family, who have requested privacy as they navigate this period of profound mourning. They have expressed deep gratitude for the support and condolences from the community, emphasizing the importance of honoring his memory by embodying the values he lived by: compassion, perseverance, and respect.

At this time, official funeral or memorial service details have not been publicly released. The family is expected to share further information once arrangements are finalized. As Edina reflects on this loss, Collin Dobin is remembered as a man whose life, though cut short, made the lives of others better through his quiet strength, reliability, and the deep, respectful connections he fostered.

U.S. — A community is reeling from the sudden and tragic loss of Trevor Krautheim, who passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 12, 2026, after suffering a seizure. His death has left his family, friends, and all who knew him heartbroken, mourning a man universally remembered for his radiant kindness, warmth, and unwavering generosity.

Trevor Krautheim obituary: Trevor Krautheim, a beloved son, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend, has died following an unexpected medical episode. Those who knew him describe a person with a rare and genuine ability to “light up any room he entered,” bringing people together through his positive spirit and deep compassion.

Trevor was known as a dedicated, hardworking individual whose selfless nature made him a reliable pillar of support for anyone in need. His strong work ethic and willingness to lend a helping hand left an impact that extended far beyond his immediate family and close friends, touching a wide circle within his community.

The abrupt nature of his passing has compounded the grief for his loved ones, who are now navigating the profound emotional and logistical challenges of saying goodbye. His mother, in particular, is facing an incredibly difficult period, grieving the loss of her son while managing the unexpected financial burdens associated with funeral arrangements.

In response, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the family during this overwhelming time, a testament to the community’s desire to rally around them as they once rallied around others.

As tributes continue to pour in from all corners of his life, Trevor Krautheim is being honored not just for how he lived, but for the depth of care he showed to everyone around him. His memory endures as a beacon of generosity and an uplifting spirit, forever cherished in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.

The Central Ohio community is mourning the loss of Sarah Elizabeth Bennett, a beloved Columbus resident, daughter, sister, and dedicated professional who passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Bennett’s life, defined by resilience and compassion, has prompted an outpouring of condolences from family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors across the region.

Sarah Elizabeth Bennett obituary: Sarah Elizabeth Bennett, a kind-hearted and devoted member of the Columbus community, has died following a determined fight against ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Throughout her illness, she faced the progressive neurodegenerative condition with extraordinary strength and grace, drawing immense support from her close-knit network of loved ones and inspiring all who witnessed her journey.

Born and raised in Columbus, Bennett was known for her warmth, thoughtfulness, and active involvement in her community. She was a loyal friend and a cherished family member whose presence brought comfort and joy. Professionally, she was respected in Columbus circles for her dedication, collaborative spirit, and commitment to excellence.

The diagnosis of ALS, a disease that progressively robs individuals of voluntary muscle control, presented immense physical challenges. Despite this, Bennett remained engaged with her family and friends, embracing each moment with remarkable courage and dignity. “She endured her condition with grace, inspiring many with her perseverance in the face of adversity,” her family shared.

News of her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes across social

CHICAGO, Ill. — Chief Keef (born Keith Cozart), the highly influential American rapper and record producer, is the subject of a recurring phenomenon: widespread online rumors of his death by gunfire. Contrary to persistent misinformation circulating on social media, Chief Keef has not been fatally shot or seriously injured in any confirmed recent incident as of early 2026.

Chief Keef obituary: Despite persistent online rumors, Chief Keef, the pioneering Chicago drill artist, is alive. Multiple credible sources and fact-checking reports consistently debunk claims of his shooting death as hoaxes originating from satire websites. The rapper himself has publicly dismissed these false stories on his official social media channels.

The most significant verified shooting-related event in Chief Keef’s history occurred in June 2018 outside the W Hotel in New York City’s Times Square. According to NYPD reports and outlets like Pitchfork, shots were fired as the rapper exited the hotel in the early morning. While evidence of gunfire was found, Chief Keef was not struck and emerged physically unharmed. Later federal racketeering cases linked the attempt to an associate of rival rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine.

This incident stands in stark contrast to the tragic fate of several close associates, highlighting the violent backdrop of the Chicago scene. In separate events, Capo (Marvin Carr), a member of Keef’s Glo Gang, and his cousin Big Glo (Mario Hess) were both shot and killed, underscoring the real dangers surrounding his circle.

One of the earliest documented encounters with gunfire dates to 2011, when Chicago police fired shots after Keef allegedly brandished a weapon during a confrontation; he was apprehended but not injured.

Chief Keef remains a seminal figure in hip-hop, credited with defining the Chicago drill sound through hits like “I Don’t Like” and “Love Sosa.” His career continues, marked by musical influence and ongoing public life. The distinction between verified events, like the 2018 attempt, and baseless online death hoaxes is crucial in accurately reporting on the artist and the narrative of violence often associated with his name.

DETROIT, Mich. — The Detroit community is mourning the loss of Maurice Lewis, a respected coach, entrepreneur, and mentor whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to guiding young people through sports, faith, and service. Lewis passed away recently, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership that touched countless lives across collegiate athletics, business, and fraternal brotherhood.

Maurice Lewis obituary: Maurice Lewis of Detroit, Michigan, a figure synonymous with leadership and community development, has passed away. He was widely known as the devoted head coach of men’s basketball at Community Christian College, where he approached coaching as a “ministry and a mission,” using the sport to instill discipline, integrity, and resilience in his players far beyond the court.

For Coach Lewis, success was measured in character growth, not just wins. He emphasized accountability, teamwork, and faith, principles that former players credit with shaping their lives long after their playing days ended. His influence extended into the business world as the owner of Detroit Sports World, a venture that channeled his entrepreneurial spirit and deep love for sports into creating opportunities and supporting the local athletic community.

A proud alumnus of The University of Olivet, where he studied Fitness and Sport Management, Lewis remained an active and respected member of the Mu Omega Pi fraternity. Following his passing, a fraternity advisor shared a moving tribute, honoring Lewis as “a Comet forever” and celebrating his perseverance, achievements, and profound devotion to his brotherhood.

The loss of Maurice Lewis is felt deeply by his family, friends, former players, colleagues, and fraternity brothers. He is remembered as a man of purpose whose life’s work was centered on empowerment, access, and uplifting others—especially the youth of Detroit. His enduring legacy is one of faith in action, leadership through service, and the lasting impact of a coach who saw every player as a whole person to be developed and cherished.

RIVERDALE, Ga. — The Albany State University community and the city of Riverdale are grieving the profound loss of Kelcey C. Wright, a senior education major whose life, though tragically cut short, was defined by extraordinary academic excellence, servant leadership, and an unwavering determination to uplift others.

Kelcey C. Wright obituary: Kelcey C. Wright, a dedicated middle grades education major from Riverdale, Georgia, and a celebrated ambassador for Albany State University, has passed away. Wright’s legacy is cemented by his remarkable 2014 achievement as Male Student of the Year at the prestigious HBCU Awards, a national honor that placed him among the most outstanding scholars from historically Black colleges and universities across the nation.

Wright was more than a scholar; he was a passionate future educator who believed deeply in the transformative power of teaching. He approached his studies with discipline and a sense of duty, viewing education as a vital tool to “open doors of opportunity for future generations.” As a proud university ambassador, he represented Albany State with professionalism and authentic pride, often motivating peers and prospective students with his encouraging words and lived example.

Described by friends and mentors as humble, kind-hearted, and consistently driven, Wright led not by seeking attention, but through steadfast character and action. He was a known source of encouragement on campus, someone who believed in others profoundly. “He was someone who led by example, earning respect through consistency and character,” a university colleague recalled. “His determination made his story one of true inspiration.”

The loss of Kelcey C. Wright is felt as a heartbreaking blow to his family, friends, classmates, and the many who were inspired by his journey. While his future in the classroom will remain unrealized, the powerful impact of his leadership, his award-winning scholarship, and his belief in the potential of every student will continue to resonate as a lasting and powerful legacy.