Crime
Aaron Jones and Robert Roberson Killed in Harvey Double Homicide, One Dog Killed, Another Critically Injured
HARVEY, Ill. — Authorities are investigating a double homicide after a man and a woman were found fatally shot inside a home Thursday morning in south suburban Harvey. The victims have been identified as Aaron Jones and Robert Roberson, according to officials.
In addition to the two fatalities, two family dogs were also shot during the incident.
One dog died from its injuries, while the second remains in critical condition, authorities said.
According to the Harvey Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 7:20 a.m. Thursday to a residence near the intersection of Vine Avenue and 150th Street after receiving a report of a possible medical emergency.
When officers entered the home, they discovered Aaron Jones and Robert Roberson suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Despite emergency response efforts, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Harvey police confirmed the case is being investigated as a double homicide.
Authorities have not released details regarding a possible suspect, motive, or the relationship between the victims. Investigators also have not disclosed the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
City officials confirmed that two dogs inside the home were also shot during the violence.
One of the animals died from its injuries, while the second dog was transported for emergency veterinary care and remains in critical condition.
The condition of the surviving dog has not been updated.
A heavy law enforcement presence surrounded the residence for several hours as detectives processed the crime scene and collected evidence.
The investigation is being conducted by the Harvey Police Department with assistance from the Illinois State Police.
Harvey Mayor Shirley Drewenski briefly addressed the tragedy Thursday but did not provide additional investigative details, describing the killings as a “senseless crime.”
Throughout the day, family members and loved ones gathered outside the home, visibly emotional as they awaited answers from investigators.
The investigation remains active, and detectives are asking anyone with information about the fatal shooting to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Harvey Police Department at 708-331-3030.
Officials say additional details will be released as the investigation into the deaths of Aaron Jones and Robert Roberson continues.
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.