Crime
Joe Rodrigue identiifed as police officer injured in New Orleans terror attack
Among the many affected by the tragic Bourbon Street attack, Officer Joe Rodrigue of the New Orleans Police Department stands out as a symbol of dedication and strength.
One of two officers injured during the incident, Joe’s journey to recovery has become a beacon of hope for his family, friends, and community.
A close friend, Loren Milliken, shared a heartfelt tribute on a GoFundMe campaign, recounting the deep friendship she and Joe forged over the past 23 years.
“Joe and I met 23 years ago at the Blockbuster on Veterans Street in Metairie. We instantly connected over our shared love of indie movies and rock music,” she wrote.
Over the years, their bond grew into an enduring friendship that survived the tests of time, distance, and differing opinions. “It’s the kind of bond that reminds me of the resilience of true friendship and gives me hope in the power of human connection,” Milliken shared.
Joe has dedicated nearly a decade of his life to serving the New Orleans Police Department, embodying compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to his community. His work has been a testament to his character and his belief in the importance of public service.
Following the attack, Joe was hospitalized with severe injuries. Though he has recently been released, his road to recovery will require time, resources, and support from those around him.
As Joe begins this challenging chapter, his wife, Beth, has been by his side every step of the way. Milliken’s GoFundMe campaign aims to alleviate some of the financial burden the Rodrigue family now faces. Donations will help cover essential expenses, including meals, household needs, and other costs, allowing Joe to focus fully on his recovery.
“Joe has always been there for his friends and his city,” Milliken emphasized. “Now, as he and Beth navigate this difficult journey, I’m reaching out for your support to help ease the burden on their family.”
Officer Rodrigue’s story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of a community united in care and compassion. Every contribution brings Joe and his family closer to the peace and healing they so richly deserve.
Crime
Angela Johnson and Her Son DeAngelo Johnson Killed After Shooting Inside Home in Chicago, Mother’s Boyfriend in Custody
CHICAGO — A 47-year-old mother and her 27-year-old son were fatally shot inside a residence in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood on the West Side late Thursday night, September 24, 2026, according to Chicago police.
The victims were identified as Angela Johnson, 47, and DeAngelo Johnson, 27. Police said a suspect, identified as Angela Johnson’s boyfriend, was taken into custody following the shooting.
The deadly shooting happened in the 800 block of North Parkside Avenue at approximately 10:43 p.m. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots coming from the basement of the residence and called 911.
When Chicago police officers arrived, they found the two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Angela Johnson was found in the basement with a gunshot wound to her chest. Police-radio traffic indicated she had been shot on the right side of her chest.
DeAngelo Johnson was found on the first floor with multiple gunshot wounds. Radio traffic indicated that he had suffered two gunshot wounds to his back.
Both victims were initially unresponsive and in critical condition. Emergency personnel performed CPR on DeAngelo Johnson before both victims were transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
According to police-radio traffic, one victim was pronounced dead at approximately 11:18 p.m., while the male victim was pronounced dead around 11:21 p.m.
Investigators found extensive evidence inside the residence, including approximately 23 shell casings in a basement bedroom. Additional shell casings were reportedly recovered in other areas of the basement, including the stairway, main room and bedroom.
Officers initially recovered a firearm and shell casings from the basement bedroom. Police later located a second firearm inside the home, bringing the total number of recovered firearms to two.
Authorities have not publicly stated who owned the firearms or confirmed which weapon, if either, was used in the fatal shooting.
Police also reported that DeAngelo Johnson was wearing an empty holster when officers found him on the first floor. That discovery prompted an officer-safety alert as officers searched the residence for the missing firearm.
Chicago police said the shooting appeared to be domestic-related and identified the alleged offender as the mother’s boyfriend.
Radio traffic indicated that a person had been detained by approximately 11:26 p.m. The official police report later confirmed that the known offender was taken into custody.
Two witnesses were reportedly available to identify the alleged offender, and officers conducted a show-up identification procedure near the scene.
Police have not released additional information about potential charges against the suspect.
The investigation into the Chicago Austin neighborhood double shooting remains ongoing. Detectives are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the shooting, the relationship between the people involved and the role of the two recovered firearms.
The deaths of Angela Johnson and DeAngelo Johnson are being investigated as a double homicide.