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.
Crime
Celeste Gusman, 66, Dies After Stabbing at Kalihi Business in Honolulu; Police Investigate as Homicide
HONOLULU, Hawaii — A 66-year-old woman has died following a stabbing at a business in Honolulu’s Kalihi neighborhood, leaving her family, friends, and the local community grieving a tragic loss.
The victim was identified as Celeste Gusman, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Officers responded to a business in the 2300 block of North School Street at approximately 3:20 p.m. Wednesday after receiving a report of a stabbing.
When officers arrived, they found Gusman suffering from a stab wound. Emergency medical personnel quickly began providing advanced lifesaving treatment at the scene before transporting her to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, Gusman later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities also reported that another woman, who is in her 60s, sustained minor injuries during the incident. According to the information released, she was injured in a fall amid the disturbance and was transported to a hospital in stable condition.
No further details about the circumstances surrounding the second woman’s injuries have been provided.
Following the incident, police initially arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of second-degree attempted murder. After Gusman died from her injuries, authorities reclassified the case as a murder investigation.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the stabbing. Police have not yet released information about what may have triggered the incident or whether the suspect knew Gusman.
The suspect’s arrest and the ongoing investigation do not establish guilt. Further details are expected as authorities continue gathering evidence and determining the events that led to the fatal attack.
The death of Celeste Gusman at 66 has brought sadness to those affected by this incident. A place of business in a familiar neighborhood became the scene of a tragedy, and loved ones are now facing the difficult reality of losing someone important to them.
While many questions remain unanswered, the loss of life has deeply affected the community. Friends, relatives, and neighbors are left remembering Gusman and hoping that the investigation will bring clarity about what happened.
Please keep Celeste Gusman’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time. The injured woman and everyone affected by the incident also deserve support as they recover.
May Celeste Gusman rest in peace. May her loved ones find comfort, strength, and healing in the days ahead.