Crime
Retired Berkeley Fire Chief Henry Williams and his daughter Halayna Williams killed in Ferguson shooting
The St. Louis community is grieving the tragic loss of retired Berkeley Fire Chief Henry Williams and his 15-year-old daughter, Halayna Williams, following a fatal shooting at a Ferguson residence on Saturday evening.
According to the Ferguson Police Department, officers responded at approximately 6:15 p.m. on February 21 to a reported medical emergency—initially described as a “sick case”—in the 500 block of North Clay Avenue in Ferguson.
Upon arrival, officers discovered an adult male and a teenage female suffering from severe injuries consistent with gunshot wounds.
Police immediately initiated life-saving measures; however, both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Troy Doyle confirmed that the adult male victim was Henry Williams, who previously served as Fire Chief for the Berkeley Fire Department.
Williams was widely respected throughout the region for his years of service and leadership in public safety.
Halayna Williams, a 15-year-old high school student, was described by family and friends as a vibrant and well-loved member of her school community.
She was an active basketball player and was remembered by classmates and staff for her positive spirit and strong presence both on and off the court.
61-year-old Linda Hayden has officially been charged with two counts of First-Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action.
The loss has deeply affected family members, friends, first responders, and residents across the St. Louis area, many of whom have expressed their condolences and support for those impacted by the tragedy.
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ferguson Police Department at 314-522-3100.
Fairfax County, Va. — Authorities have confirmed fatalities following an early morning domestic-related incident involving multiple stabbing victims and an officer-involved shooting in the Mantua area.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:15 a.m. in the 3900 block of Persimmon Circle, near Persimmon Drive.
According to the Fairfax County Police Department, officers responded to a reported domestic assault at a residence in the area.
Upon arrival, officers encountered an adult male armed with a knife.
During the confrontation, an officer discharged their weapon, striking the suspect.
Officers immediately rendered aid and initiated CPR; however, the armed male subject was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Inside the residence, officers located three additional victims—two adult women and one adult man—suffering from stab wounds.
All three victims were transported to area hospitals with life-threatening injuries. Authorities have since confirmed that one adult female victim was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
The remaining two victims continue to receive treatment and remain in life-threatening condition.
Police stated that the incident is being investigated as both a multiple-victim stabbing and an officer-involved shooting.
Detectives are actively working to establish a comprehensive timeline of events leading up to the confrontation.
A media staging area has been established at the intersection of Persimmon Drive and Persimmon Circle.
A Public Information Officer (PIO) remains on scene to coordinate updates.
The Fairfax County Police Chief is expected to provide additional information during a scheduled press briefing later this morning.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.