Local News
Rare magnitude 3.5 earthquake strikes near Shreveport, Louisiana
A rare magnitude 3.5 earthquake struck near Shreveport, Louisiana, on January 18, 2025, at 8:12 p.m. UTC, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 2 kilometers south-southwest of Mooringsport, Louisiana, at coordinates 32.668°N, 93.967°W.
It occurred at a depth of 5.0 kilometers (3.1 miles), which is considered shallow and may have contributed to the tremor being felt across the region.
This seismic event is notable for occurring in Louisiana, a state not typically associated with significant tectonic activity.
Residents in the vicinity of Mooringsport and parts of Shreveport reported feeling light shaking. However, there have been no immediate reports of injuries, structural damage, or disruptions to infrastructure.
While earthquakes of this magnitude are generally mild, they can occasionally cause minor damage, particularly when occurring at shallow depths. Louisiana’s geology, largely composed of sedimentary rock and expansive river systems, typically experiences little tectonic activity compared to regions along major fault lines.
The USGS has classified the earthquake as a rare event for this area and will continue to monitor for any aftershocks or additional seismic activity.
Residents are encouraged to report their experiences through the USGS “Did You Feel It?” platform, which helps scientists better understand the effects of earthquakes in various regions.
This event serves as a reminder that while uncommon, seismic activity can occur even in geologically stable regions.
It highlights the importance of basic preparedness and awareness for natural events, regardless of a location’s typical seismic activity levels.
Local News
29-Year-Old Alex Rodriguez Found Dead on University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, No Foul Play Suspected
URBANA, Ill. — A 29-year-old Champaign man found dead on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus Monday morning has been identified as Alex C. Rodriguez, according to the Champaign County Coroner’s Office.
The University of Illinois Police Department (UIPD) responded to the area of Green and Wright streets at approximately 6:42 a.m. after receiving a report of an unresponsive person near the Alma Mater statue.
Officers arrived and found Rodriguez on a concrete bench. Emergency medical assistance was requested at the scene.
The Champaign County Coroner’s Office responded, and Rodriguez was pronounced dead at approximately 7:16 a.m., according to Coroner Laurie Brauer.
Authorities said Rodriguez was not affiliated with the University of Illinois.
UIPD provided an update Monday afternoon, saying preliminary observations at the scene revealed no signs of foul play.
Police also said there was no evidence of an ongoing threat to the university campus or surrounding community based on the information available when officers responded.
Because investigators did not identify an active threat, the university did not issue an Illini-Alert emergency notification.
The circumstances surrounding Rodriguez’s death have not been determined.
An autopsy has been scheduled, and the death remains under investigation by the University of Illinois Police Department.
Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances leading to Rodriguez’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected as investigators receive further information from the autopsy and other evidence.
No foul play has been indicated based on the preliminary investigation.