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Four U.S. Soldiers Killed in Attack, Several Others Wounded: CENTCOM Confirms

Washington, D.C. — Monday, March 2, 2026

The U.S. military confirmed the deaths of four service members following a deadly attack that also left 18 others seriously wounded. The identified soldiers are Sgt. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa; Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida.

According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the remains of two additional service members were recovered at the site, though their identities are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification. Officials have not released further details regarding the location of the attack.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the assault as the result of a “squirter,” a powerful weapon capable of breaching U.S. air defenses. Speaking about the fallen soldiers, Hegseth said, “They were the absolute best of America. May we prosecute the remainder of this operation in a manner that honors them.”

The 18 wounded service members are receiving medical treatment, with several described as in serious condition. Military officials have emphasized that their priority is both providing care for the injured and ensuring the safety of remaining forces in the area.

This attack represents a significant loss for the U.S. armed forces. Each of the fallen soldiers had distinguished service records and were widely regarded as exemplary members of their units. Colleagues and commanders have paid tribute to their courage, dedication, and commitment to duty.

CENTCOM continues to investigate the attack and assess the threat posed by the weapon used. Military leadership has also pledged to take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future while continuing operational objectives in the region.

Communities across the country, from Iowa to Florida, are mourning the loss of the soldiers. Memorial services and vigils are expected in their hometowns as family, friends, and fellow service members honor their sacrifice.

In Loving Memory: Dustin DeWitt, 21, Among Victims of Downtown Sacramento Stabbing

Sacramento, CA — Monday, March 2, 2026

Authorities have identified Dustin DeWitt, 21, of Stockton, as one of the victims of a fatal stabbing that occurred in downtown Sacramento over the weekend. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community and left family, friends, and loved ones grieving the untimely loss of a young life.

Sacramento Police Department officials reported that the stabbing occurred in a busy area of downtown late Saturday night. Emergency responders arrived promptly on the scene and transported the victims to nearby hospitals, but despite medical efforts, Dustin and others succumbed to their injuries. Authorities have not released the identities of additional victims as investigations continue.

Friends and family have described Dustin as a bright, ambitious young man with a promising future. Messages of love and remembrance have flooded social media, highlighting his kindness, energy, and the joy he brought to those around him.

The circumstances surrounding the stabbing remain under investigation. Sacramento police are actively pursuing leads and reviewing surveillance footage from the area to identify suspects and determine the events leading to the attack. Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the investigation.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” said a police spokesperson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and loved ones of Dustin DeWitt during this incredibly difficult time.”

Community members have begun organizing vigils and memorials to honor Dustin’s life and mourn his passing. Local advocacy groups are also calling for increased safety measures in downtown Sacramento to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

While the investigation continues, Sacramento residents and Dustin’s loved ones are coming together to support one another, remembering the young man for his warmth, potential, and the bright presence he brought to the lives he touched.

Two Men Die in Wapakoneta House Fire, Authorities Investigate Cause

Wapakoneta, OH — Monday, March 2, 2026

Authorities have identified the two men who died following a house fire Sunday night in Wapakoneta as David Ritchie, 63, and Fenton E. Lucas Jr., 63, both lifelong residents of the city.

Firefighters were called to the residence Sunday evening after reports of smoke and flames. First responders were able to pull both men from the burning home, but despite immediate rescue efforts and rapid transport to Lima-area hospitals, both succumbed to their injuries shortly afterward.

The Wapakoneta Fire Department described the scene as “intense and challenging,” noting that crews worked quickly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby homes. “Our team did everything possible to save lives and property,” a department spokesperson said.

Officials with the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office confirmed that the Fire & Explosion Investigations Bureau (FEIB) is actively investigating the incident. They are collaborating with the Wapakoneta Fire Department and Wapakoneta Police Department to determine the cause of the fire. At this time, no further details regarding the origin of the blaze have been released.

Neighbors described the neighborhood as quiet and close-knit, expressing shock over the sudden tragedy. “It’s just heartbreaking. You never expect something like this in our community,” one local resident said. Authorities have asked the public to respect the privacy of the victims’ families while the investigation is ongoing.

Officials emphasized that it may take days or weeks to determine the exact cause of the fire. In the meantime, fire safety experts are reminding residents to ensure that smoke detectors are functional, maintain clear exits, and have an emergency plan in place.

The Wapakoneta Police Department and fire officials continue to provide support to the families of the victims and are coordinating with local organizations to offer assistance during this difficult time.

Joplin Teen Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash in Cherokee County

CHEROKEE COUNTY, Kan. — A 19-year-old man from Joplin, Missouri, tragically lost his life Tuesday evening after his car veered into the oncoming lane and struck a tree on a rural road in Cherokee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that Braxon M. Gough was driving a 2014 Ford Fusion westbound on SE 110th Street near SE Turkey Creek Road, approximately three miles north of Galena, around 7:45 p.m. For reasons that remain under investigation, Gough’s vehicle crossed into the eastbound lane, collided with a tree, and caught fire. He was the sole occupant of the car and was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was transported to Frontier Forensics in Kansas City, Kansas.

Authorities could not immediately determine if Gough was wearing a seat belt due to the post-crash fire. The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash. No other vehicles or injuries were reported in the incident, which occurred on a two-lane rural road near the Missouri state line.

Community Mourns a Young Life Lost

Braxon Gough’s sudden passing has left family, friends, and the community in shock. Descriptions of him paint a picture of a young man admired for his intelligence, strength, humor, and loyalty.

“He was one of the good ones… the very best of us,” a close friend said. “He was smart, strong, loyal… and so funny! To watch him banter with his father was pure magic. His sudden loss leaves a massive hole in the hearts of his family.”

To support Gough’s family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe campaign has been established, raising nearly $20,000 as of Friday. Friends and family are asking the public to send love, prayers, and any support they can provide to help the family navigate their tremendous loss.

“To know Brax was to love him,” the friend added. “If you’re reading this, please take a moment to say a prayer, send out some love, or do whatever it is you do…for Brax.”

Braxon Gough’s family now faces the difficult task of moving forward without him. His life, though tragically short, left a lasting impact on all who knew him, and the community continues to rally around those mourning his loss.

Minot Mourns the Passing of Deputy Chris Berentson, 40

MINOT, N.D. — Chris Berentson, age 40, of Minot, passed away Friday, February 27, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Bismarck, North Dakota. His passing leaves a profound void in the Minot community and among the many colleagues, friends, and citizens whose lives he touched.

A full obituary will be available soon. Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, with interment to follow at Rosehill Memorial Park.

Chris Berentson was more than a deputy; he was a protector, a friend, and a steadfast presence in the lives of those around him. Colleagues describe him as the kind of law enforcement officer you hope shows up when you need help — calm under pressure, fearless in the face of danger, and always willing to put others first.

“He had my back when kicking in doors, not knowing what waited on the other side,” shared one fellow officer. “He stood with me while pulling multiple people out of a car. He knew I was always alone when working patrol, and he would call just to make sure I was good.”

Chris’s dedication to his community extended beyond his professional responsibilities. His integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to serving others earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. The bonds he built with his colleagues and the lives he touched will remain a lasting testament to his character.

“Thank you, Chris, for your friendship and your dedication,” a fellow officer said. “We will carry your memory forward, in the way we serve, and in the way we watch out for one another. Rest easy, brother.”

Chris Berentson’s life was marked by service, loyalty, and compassion. While his passing is a tremendous loss, his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps and those who were fortunate to call him a friend.

💚 In Loving Memory of Dr. Quinn J. Ouillette 💚

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Dr. Quinn J. Ouillette, a cherished physician, mentor, and friend whose impact touched countless lives. Dr. Ouillette’s dedication to his patients, his staff, and the community will always be remembered. His compassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the care of others leave a lasting legacy that inspires all who knew him.

For those who would like to view Dr. Ouillette’s official obituary and leave condolences, it can be found here:
Official Obituary

💚 Sharing Memories and Photos
The family would love to celebrate Dr. Ouillette’s life by sharing cherished memories. If you have photos of Dr. Ouillette with his patients, friends, or colleagues, please send them to: info@ocbrighton.com. These photos will be shared during the visitation to honor the meaningful connections he created throughout his life.

We are profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love and support following our memorial post. Your thoughts, prayers, and kind words have brought comfort to Dr. Ouillette’s family, friends, staff, and patients during this difficult time.

Dr. Ouillette’s life was a testament to the power of care, compassion, and connection. While he may no longer be with us, the love he shared and the lives he touched will remain forever in our hearts.