Crime
7-year-old Noah Jovani dies after dog attack in Chilton County
CHILTON COUNTY, AL — The Chilton County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the dogs involved in the tragic attack on a child near County Road 147, in the Calera area, have now been located and secured.
Chilton County Animal Control responded promptly and has taken custody of the animals.
The owner of the dogs is cooperating fully with investigators as the case remains under active investigation.
At approximately 6:10 p.m. on July 22, 2025, deputies responded to an emergency call regarding a serious dog attack.
Upon arrival, first responders discovered that 7-year-old Noah Jovani had sustained severe injuries as a result of an attack by one or more aggressive dogs.
The child was immediately transported for emergency medical care but sadly succumbed to his injuries.
Chilton County Animal Control was notified at the time and assisted at the scene.
Authorities initially reported that the dogs involved had not yet been secured.
As of the most recent update, the animals have been located and are now in the custody of Animal Control.
Investigators are working to determine all relevant details surrounding the attack, including whether the dogs were properly secured prior to the incident and whether any violations of local ordinances occurred.
“Our hearts are broken for the child and the family affected by this unimaginable loss. We are fully committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine how this tragedy occurred and to help prevent something like this from ever happening again.”
The Chilton County Sheriff’s Office is reminding all residents to ensure that pets are properly contained and to follow local animal control regulations to protect the safety of the community.
Further updates will be released as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Chilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.