Local News
66-year-old Victor Shaw dies in Eaton Fire
One of the five confirmed fatalities from the devastating Eaton Fire was identified on Wednesday morning as 66-year-old Victor Shaw, whose body was discovered by his family near their home.
In a poignant detail, Victor was found with a garden hose still in his hand, a testament to his efforts to defend the home that had been in his family for nearly 55 years.
Victor’s body remains on the property in the 3000 block of Monterose Avenue, as conditions in the area were still too hazardous by Wednesday night for the coroner’s office to retrieve him.
Victor shared the family home with his younger sister, Shari Shaw, who recalled her attempts to persuade him to evacuate with her on Tuesday night as the fire approached. Unfortunately, Victor, who struggled with health issues that limited his mobility, chose to stay behind, determined to protect their cherished home.
The Eaton Fire is one of four large, active wildfires currently impacting the Los Angeles area. Collectively, these fires have wrought widespread destruction:
- The Palisades Fire, the largest of the blazes, has consumed 17,234 acres, destroying an estimated 1,000 structures.
- The Hurst Fire, burning in the Sylmar neighborhood, has scorched 855 acres.
- The Lidia Fire, a fast-moving blaze in the Antelope Valley, has burned 348 acres and prompted evacuations.
- Crews are making progress on the Sunset Fire, a 43-acre fire in the Hollywood Hills that forced rapid evacuations.
Friends and family described Victor as a determined and kind-hearted individual who deeply valued his family’s legacy.
His tragic death serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers posed by these unprecedented wildfires.
Authorities continue to battle these destructive wildfires, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the blazes and protect affected communities. Local officials are urging residents in vulnerable areas to prioritize their safety and evacuate when instructed.
Victor Shaw’s bravery and love for his family’s home will not be forgotten. His story is a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Local News
Indiana Police Officer Ronnell Johnson Fatally Shot While Handling Personal Firearm at Marion Health Hospital
Authorities in Indiana are investigating the fatal shooting of a Marion Health Police Officer who died early Sunday morning after an accidental firearm discharge inside Marion Health Hospital in Grant County.
According to the Indiana State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, when 25-year-old Officer Ronnell J. Johnson, of Marion, Indiana, was discovered with an apparent gunshot wound. Officer Johnson was on duty at the time of the incident.
Initial findings from the ongoing investigation indicate that Officer Johnson was handling a personally-owned, non-department-issued handgun when the firearm discharged, striking him.
Details surrounding how the weapon was being handled and the moments leading up to the injury have not yet been fully clarified.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies—including the Indiana State Police, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Marion City Police Department, and Marion Health Police Department—responded immediately.
Hospital medical staff initiated life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, Officer Johnson succumbed to his injuries.
He was later pronounced deceased by the Grant County Coroner’s Office.
Family notification has been completed, and an autopsy is scheduled as part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials emphasize that no additional details will be released until further evidence is reviewed.
Indiana State Police Detectives are leading the investigation at the request of the Marion City Police Department.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Indiana State Police Peru Post and medical personnel from Marion Health Hospital.
The circumstances remain under active review.
