Crime
40-year-old Elliot Wilkinson killed in New Orleans terror attack
New Orleans, LA – Family members have confirmed that 40-year-old Elliot Wilkinson is among the victims of the devastating terror attack that occurred on New Year’s Day along Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
Elliot’s brother, Cecil Wilkinson of Lafayette, expressed his grief and heartbreak in a heartfelt post on Facebook.
“I know life was hard for you at times,” Cecil wrote. “I wasn’t expecting to get the phone call.”
The Wilkinson family is grappling with the sudden loss of their loved one as they join the broader community in mourning the lives lost during the attack.
The tragedy unfolded early in the morning when a truck plowed into a crowd of people, killing 15 and leaving several others injured. Authorities have since identified the suspect as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Bahar Jabbar, who was shot and killed by police after the attack.
Elliot Wilkinson’s life, like those of the other victims, was tragically cut short in an act of senseless violence. His family, along with the families of all those affected, are calling for justice and peace during this difficult time.
Investigations into the attack are ongoing. Community members have been encouraged to share any information that may assist authorities in their inquiries.
Crime
Ohio Shooting Leaves Suspect and 4-Year-Old Girl Dead, Officer Injured
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
COLUMBIANA COUNTY, OH – A tragic shooting incident in Calcutta on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of a suspect and a 4-year-old girl, while a police officer remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery.
According to St. Clair Township Police Chief Brian McKenzie, officers responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a suicidal male walking down the street with a firearm.
Upon locating the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, officers attempted to make contact.
“Almost immediately, the man pulled a weapon and opened fire on my officers,” McKenzie stated. “Officers returned fire, striking the suspect.”
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries later in the evening, authorities confirmed.
Como was also fatally wounded during the shootout and pronounced dead at the scene.
One St. Clair Township police officer Dakota Wetzel sustained gunshot wounds and was airlifted to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he underwent emergency surgery.
Chief McKenzie reported that the officer is currently in stable condition and is receiving medical care.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our injured officer and the family of the young girl whose life was tragically lost,” McKenzie said. “Right now, we are working diligently to gather all the facts and keep the community informed.”
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has assumed responsibility for the case and is conducting a thorough review of the incident. Counselors have been made available to support the officers involved.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the St. Clair Township Police Department.