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.
A man has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a woman in the Avondale neighborhood of Cincinnati, according to the Cincinnati Police Department.
Authorities identified the suspect as Jesse Wilson, 65, who has been charged with aggravated murder in the death of 36-year-old Jessica Hardy. Wilson was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Hamilton County Justice Center.
Police said officers were dispatched at approximately 6:35 a.m. on March 6 to the 700 block of Ridgeway Avenue after receiving reports of a shooting.
When officers arrived at the Avondale apartment building, they discovered Hardy suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency crews attempted lifesaving measures, but Hardy was pronounced dead at the scene, according to investigators.
The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office later confirmed her death and ruled the case an apparent homicide.
Detectives with the homicide unit launched an investigation shortly after the shooting, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses as they worked to determine the circumstances leading up to the deadly incident.
Wilson was subsequently identified as a suspect and arrested.
Authorities have not yet released additional details about what may have led to the shooting.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police have asked anyone with information related to the case to contact the homicide unit.