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.
Crime
Bernice Hosch Found Dead in Shelby, North Carolina, Home Fire; 33-Year-Old Man Charged With First-Degree Murder
A residential fire in Shelby, North Carolina, led to a tragic discovery and a homicide investigation after firefighters found Bernice Hosch dead inside a home on Gibson Road. Authorities have since arrested a 33-year-old man and charged him with first-degree murder in connection with her death.
The incident occurred on Friday, November 6, 2026, at a residence located at 106 Gibson Road. What initially appeared to be a fire emergency quickly became a criminal investigation after first responders discovered evidence of an apparent assault inside the property.
According to the information released about the case, firefighters were dispatched to the residence after a fire alarm was reported. When crews arrived, they encountered an active fire in the kitchen and began working to bring the situation under control.
During their response, firefighters made a devastating discovery inside the home: Bernice Hosch was found deceased. Authorities reported that she had injuries consistent with an apparent assault.
The discovery changed the nature of the emergency response, prompting investigators to examine the circumstances surrounding her death. Officials have not released additional details about the fire or explained how it may be connected to the circumstances of the homicide.
Authorities subsequently arrested 33-year-old Jordan O’Neil Hosch on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
He has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond, according to the information provided. The charge represents an allegation, and the case will proceed through the criminal justice system.
Investigators have not publicly clarified whether Jordan O’Neil Hosch was related to Bernice Hosch or described the nature of their relationship. Officials have also not released further information about the alleged assault or the events that occurred before firefighters were called to the home.
The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bernice Hosch’s death. Authorities are working to establish what happened inside the Gibson Road residence and determine the details surrounding the fire and alleged homicide.
Jordan O’Neil Hosch is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, November 9, 2026. Further information about the case may become available as the investigation and court proceedings move forward.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office at 704-484-4822.
Behind the investigation is a family and circle of loved ones grieving the loss of Bernice Hosch. Her death inside a place that should have offered safety and shelter has left those closest to her facing a painful and difficult reality.
As authorities continue working to establish the facts, Bernice’s family and friends are left with unanswered questions and the difficult task of mourning someone whose life mattered deeply to them.
The community is encouraged to keep Bernice Hosch’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
May Bernice Hosch be remembered with compassion and love, and may her family find strength and comfort as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.