Crime
Suspect who killed Romeca Meeks identified as Holly Johnson
CHICAGO — A woman fatally shot Monday morning in the South Loop has been identified as 31-year-old Romeca Meeks, while police have identified the alleged shooter as Holly Johnson, who remains in custody.
According to the Chicago Police Department (CPD), officers responded around 9:35 a.m. on September 8, 2025, to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire near Cermak Road and State Street.
When officers arrived, they found Meeks lying in the street suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to her chin and thigh.
She was transported to Stroger Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.
Investigators said the shooting followed a physical altercation between Meeks and Johnson, who allegedly claimed to possess a valid concealed carry license.
During the dispute, Johnson is accused of pulling out a firearm and shooting Meeks multiple times.
Police said Johnson remained at the scene, where her weapon was recovered, and she was immediately taken into custody.
Family members shared that Meeks had just dropped off her young son at school and was on her way to work at the time of the incident.
Witnesses also alleged that Meeks’ child’s father, Carlos “Losos” Way—who is reportedly subject to an active restraining order—was present during the altercation and placed Meeks in a headlock.
In those moments, Johnson allegedly drew her firearm and fatally shot Meeks at close range.
“Her cousin spoke with Channel2 NOW, stating: ‘This is my cousin, and what’s being reported is not accurate. He was physically fighting my cousin when his girlfriend got out of the car and shot her. This was not an act of self-defense, and Romeca was not fighting over him.’”
The Chicago Police Department confirmed that Area Three Detectives are handling the investigation.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the exact circumstances leading up to the altercation.
Meeks’ family has asked the public to respect their privacy and to refrain from sharing graphic videos of the incident that have circulated online.
Her sister issued a public plea for such footage to be removed out of respect for the victim and her loved ones.
Anyone with information about this homicide is urged to contact the CPD 1st District at (312) 745-4290 or submit tips anonymously at CPDTIP.com.
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — A 35-year-old man has died after being shot inside a residence in Birmingham early Thursday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim was identified as Ralen Jerean McCurdy, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. McCurdy was found unresponsive inside a home in the 4300 block of 12th Court North after police responded to reports of gunfire and an injured person shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Despite the response from emergency personnel, McCurdy did not survive his injuries. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 2:04 a.m.
According to authorities, officers assigned to Birmingham Police Department’s South Precinct were dispatched to the area shortly after 1:40 a.m. Thursday following a ShotSpotter alert and a report of an injured individual.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered McCurdy unresponsive inside the home. Emergency responders subsequently confirmed his death at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have not yet been publicly established.
Birmingham police detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding McCurdy’s death. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspect information or possible motive was included in the details released.
Investigators will continue working to determine what happened inside the residence and identify anyone who may have been involved. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
McCurdy’s death marks Birmingham’s fourth homicide since Saturday, according to the information provided. The latest fatal shooting adds to a difficult stretch for the city and leaves another family grieving the loss of a loved one.
At 35 years old, McCurdy’s life ended in a violent incident that remains under investigation. His death is a painful loss for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
As detectives continue their work, loved ones are left to remember McCurdy while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to his death.
May Ralen Jerean McCurdy rest in peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and support during this heartbreaking time.