Crime
18-Year-Old Charged in Fatal Columbia Shooting That Left Another Teen Dead
An 18-year-old man has been arrested and is facing multiple felony charges in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon at a residence in Columbia, Tennessee.
According to the Columbia Police Department, officers were dispatched to a home in the 1000 block of Whatley Street around 5:30 p.m. on April 15 following reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located 18-year-old Jayden Braden unresponsive inside the home, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical personnel transported Braden to Maury Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following an investigation and the development of leads, police identified the suspected shooter as 18-year-old Alijah Wolflin.
He was located at another residence in Columbia and taken into custody without incident.
Wolflin now faces several charges, including:
- First-degree murder
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony
- Reckless endangerment
- Aggravated assault resulting in death
Authorities noted that Braden and Wolflin were known to one another and described them as “associates.” Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public in connection with this incident.
In response to the tragedy, Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder issued a statement expressing condolences to the families and the wider community affected by the shooting:
“As a community, we come together in the good times and in difficult times. That is what defines us. That’s who we are.
Liz and I are heartbroken by recent events in Columbia, including the loss of life of one who had a lot of life left to live; and for all of those who are impacted by this loss and tragic event — particularly the high school-aged population who knew the situation.”
No additional details have been released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.
Chatham, Illinois — Authorities are investigating a tragic incident after a woman drove her vehicle through a daycare and after-school camp facility, resulting in multiple casualties.
According to Illinois State Police, the incident occurred when Marianne Akers drove a Jeep through the YNot After-School Camp in Chatham.
Witnesses reported that Akers struck several children outside the building before crashing through the facility and exiting from the opposite side.
Officials confirmed that four victims, ranging in age from 4 to 18 years old, were killed in the incident.
Six additional individuals sustained injuries and were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Akers was also taken to the hospital for medical evaluation.
Authorities on the scene conducted a field sobriety test on Akers, which she reportedly failed.
Multiple sources and witnesses at the scene have stated that Akers appeared intoxicated, and preliminary reports indicate that driving under the influence (DUI) is suspected as a contributing factor in the crash.
Police have taken Akers into custody.
Charges are pending the results of further investigation and toxicology reports.
Officials have emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, with some community members calling for stringent penalties for DUI offenses involved in fatal crashes.
It has also been confirmed that Akers was employed by the Chatham School District’s food service department at the time of the incident.
Law enforcement agencies, including Illinois State Police and Chatham Police Department, continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Additional details, including formal charges, are expected to be released in the coming days.
Anyone with further information regarding the incident is urged to contact Illinois State Police or local law enforcement.