NHL superstar Johnny Gaudreau and brother killed by suspected drunk driver on eve of sister's wedding: 'Unimaginable tragedy'



NHL superstar Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed on Thursday night — a day before their sister's wedding.

Around 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were riding bicycles down a road in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.

'Both Matty and Johnny were terrifically admired by all of us. Wonderful young guys, and they impressed a lot of us off-ice.'

A Jeep Grand Cherokee attempted to pass a slower-moving sedan and an SUV while traveling north on County Route 551, police told WPVI.

The driver of the Grand Cherokee — 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins of Woodstown – fatally hit the Gaudreau brothers, Sgt. Jeffrey Lebron of the New Jersey State Police said in a statement on Friday.

The Gaudreau brothers were pronounced dead at the scene.

Higgins was charged with two counts of death by auto and is being held at the Salem County Correctional Facility.

Higgins was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the deadly accident, Lebron stated.

Citing the police affidavit, WPVI reported the state trooper who arrived at the scene detected a "strong odor of alcohol" on the driver. Higgins allegedly told the trooper he had consumed "five to six beers" before the fatal crash. The outlet reported that Higgins told investigators that his consumption of alcohol contributed to his impatience and reckless driving, according to the criminal complaint.

The trooper allegedly said Higgins failed a field sobriety test.

The Columbus Blue Jackets confirmed the sudden death of the NHL superstar with a statement that called the fatal crash an "unimaginable tragedy."

"The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy," the statement read. "Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend."

"Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice," the Blue Jackets said. "He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets. He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could."

"The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound, but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him," the statement continued. "Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms."

The statement concluded, "We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy. At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve."

Johnny played two seasons with the Blue Jackets and nine seasons with the Calgary Flames.

The Calgary Flames said in a statement, "It’s with great sadness, we mourn the tragic deaths of our friend Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau. Our hearts are broken by this devastating loss. Johnny was and always will be a member of the Flames family and loved by all of Calgary."

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement, "The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew."

"While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path," Bettman stated.

"Gaudreau often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion throughout his 11 NHL seasons," Bettmen added. "A skilled playmaker, Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game seven times where he was always a fan favorite, particularly while showcasing his talents in the various skills competitions for which he was so well suited."

Both Gaudreau brothers were hockey teammates at Boston College before Johnny was drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2011.

Jerry York — who coached the Gaudreau brothers at Boston College — told the Associated Press, "Just devastating news for all of us connected with the Gaudreau family. Both Matty and Johnny were terrifically admired by all of us. Wonderful young guys, and they impressed a lot of us off-ice."

Johnny scored 20-plus goals six times and was a 115-point player in the 2021-2022 season when he had a career-best 40 goals and 75 assists.

Matthew was also a professional hockey player who spent time in the AHL and ECHL.

Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Meredith Gaudreau, and their two young children, 1-year-old daughter, Noa, and 6-month-old son, Johnny Jr.

Johnny and Matthew had been set to attend the wedding of their sister, Katie Gaudreau. The wedding ceremony is scheduled for Friday afternoon in New Jersey and a reception in Philadelphia later that night.

The brothers were supposed to be groomsmen during the wedding ceremony, according to the bride-to-be's wedding page.

This is the second tragedy for the Blue Jackets in recent years.

Columbus goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks died in July 2021 when the 24-year-old was struck in the chest by a firework while attending the wedding of the daughter of then-Blue Jackets goaltending coach Manny Legace in Novi, Michigan.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

High school quarterback dies from brain injury in freak accident: 'Our hope is that God will be glorified through our story'



An Alabama high school quarterback died suddenly after suffering from a traumatic brain injury during the season-opening game on Friday night, according to multiple reports.

John T. Morgan Academy’s first game of the 2024 season was held on Friday against visiting Southern Academy in Selma, Alabama.

'My son was an exceptional athlete. But the thing he loved the most was to talk about Jesus.'

Caden Tellier, a 16-year-old junior, was the quarterback for John T. Morgan Academy. During the third quarter of the game, Tellier suffered an injury from a freak accident.

The Alabama Independent School Association executive director Michael McLendon said those in the crowd watching the game "likely did not witness anything unusual" in the heartbreaking last play that he described as "routine."

McLendon said, "While we may not know the full story for some time, initial reports are that Caden likely suffered a ruptured blood vessel in his brain following a routine play in which he was tackled and made contact with the ground."

Tellier was taken off the field and airlifted to the University of Alabama Birmingham Hospital in critical condition.

McLendon told CNN that it could be "quite some time before we have more information about the injury and overall incident."

Caden's parents — Arsella Slagel Tellier and Jamie Tellier — revealed that their son had passed away in a Facebook post shared on Saturday.

Our boy, Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face. We appreciate all of your prayers and we covet them for the hard days ahead. Everyone who knows Caden has known kindness, generosity, and love, and true to his nature, he is giving of himself one more time. Lives have been touched by the way he lived and now lives will be saved through his passing. We will walk out these next few days alongside him in his earthly body knowing that his spirit is rejoicing in heaven.

The grieving parents provided an update on social media on Tuesday morning, where they thanked the medical staff who cared for Caden. The heartbroken parents also revealed that Caden was an organ donor and "his final wish to give the gift of organ donation" was realized.

"Caden is still fighting hard in his earthly body as he prepares for this final act of generosity to bring new life to others," the parents said. "We continue to pray for those whose lives will be forever changed by his gifts."

The parents added, "Our hope is that God will be glorified through our story. His love will be evident, and that Caden’s impact will touch the lives of many."

Caden's father, Jamie Tellier, said, "I could tell you a lot about who my son was, who my son is. My son was an exceptional athlete. But the thing he loved the most was to talk about Jesus."

The parents were "overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and generosity from our friends, community, and even those who have never met us in person."

'His legacy will live on and we thank God that we had the opportunity to love him and be loved by him.'

Dr. Bryan Oliver — the headmaster of John T. Morgan Academy — said in a statement on social media:

It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that Caden Tellier has gone to be with his Lord and Savior. Caden loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining light every day he graced the halls of Morgan Academy. He was a student, a friend, an athlete, and most important, a Christ follower. There are no words to describe how we feel as a school community and family. We will come together and support Jamie, Arsella and Lyla with our whole hearts. We offer our deepest sympathy to the Tellier’s extended family as well. I want to thank all the schools and individuals that have reached out during this difficult time. Caden will never be forgotten for who he was and what he means to Morgan Academy.

Oliver stated that the school would cancel all athletic activities for the next week because of the sudden death tragedy.

Nearby Hooper Academy quoted the Psalms 147:3 Bible verse in a Facebook post: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

“Hooper Academy extends its sincerest thoughts and prayers to the family of Caden Tellier, a standout student-athlete at Morgan Academy who tragically lost his life after an injury Friday night," the school stated. "The AISA is truly a family, and we will stand in the gap in prayer for his friends, loved ones, and the entire student body of MAS in the days and weeks to come."

Auburn University football coach Hugh Freeze said at a press conference on Monday, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Caden Tellier over at Morgan Academy in Selma, and Coach (Jacob) Webb as they deal with the tragic loss of one of their teammates and a son. I just can’t imagine the difficulty that they’re going through. So our thoughts and prayers are with them."

Tellier threw a touchdown and rushed for a touchdown in the first half before his injury, according to the Selma Times-Journal.

A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover medical and funeral expenses for the family. At the time of publication the crowdfunding campaign had raised more than $100,000.

"Caden is best known for his kindness, generosity, and love," the GoFundMe listing read. "True to his nature, he is giving of himself one more time to save the lives of others through the donation of his organs. His legacy will live on and we thank God that we had the opportunity to love him and be loved by him.

Alabama High School Athletic Association medical director James Robinson said football is "still safe."

Robinson told AL.com, "If you look at the data from the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research, you will see that death rates remain at a fairly stable level. In 2023, there were 16 deaths at all levels. Ten were medically related, three were traumatic and three were not football-related or unknown. At the high school level, four were medically related and three were related to traumatic head injuries. This is out of 4.2 million participants at all levels."

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Tragic video shows last moments of South Carolina man in Uncle Sam costume who died after placing large firework on head



A South Carolina man died suddenly on the 4th of July after placing a large firework on his head. Video shows the final moments of the man dressed in an Uncle Sam costume who was killed by the explosion.

Around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, Allen Ray McGrew was enjoying the 4th of July festivities at a local neighborhood block party in Summerville, about 35 minutes north of Charleston.

The 41-year-old father had allegedly been drinking that day and placed a large firework on his head. His wife initially thought he was merely posing with the firework in an attempt to entertain onlookers.

"He was holding this firework over his top hat. I thought he was just showboating before he set it on the ground. I didn’t realize he had already lit it," McGrew's wife told the New York Post.

The firework exploded on McGrew's head and he was said to have died instantly from the injuries from the explosion.

The last moments of McGrew's life were caught on video and posted on social media. The video shows McGrew dressed in an Uncle Sam costume and dancing in a yard.

Allen's wife, Paige McGrew, told the Post and Courier that he was a "patriot" who loved Independence Day and was excited over the recent marriage engagement of his son.

"He was a patriot; he was proud of his son and he was excited to have a new daughter-in-law. He was living his best life last night," Paige explained.

She recalled the moments before his sudden death, "Just before the incident happened, he hugged me and his son and said ‘You are my rock, and you are my heart. Me being his rock and his son being his heart."

McGrew was described as a kind neighbor who regularly mowed the lawns of about five neighbors.

A neighbor said of Allen, "He was the nicest guy. He was the kind of guy you want for a neighbor."

Another man died from a fireworks accident on July 4th in Greenback, Tennessee.

The man – 35-year-old Matthew Sellars – was reportedly holding a lit firework in his hand when it exploded and caused a large chest wound around 10 p.m. on Thursday.

"I saw a large hole in Mr. Sellars' chest and a cut on his right hand. Mr. Sellars was pronounced deceased at 2230 hours and was transported to Blount Memorial Hospital by AMR," the incident report from the Blount County Sheriff's Office read.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Apollo 8 astronaut, who snapped iconic 'Earthrise' photo, dies in fiery plane crash caught on video



Apollo 8 astronaut William Anders died in a fiery plane crash over Puget Sound in Washington on Friday. The tragic incident was caught on video. Anders was 90.

At the time of the airplane crash, Anders was piloting his vintage Beechcraft T-34 Mentor – a single-engine, propeller-driven aircraft primarily used for flight training during the 1950s by the United States Air Force and U.S. Navy.

Video taken by Phillip Person shows Anders' plane suddenly falling from the sky and crashing into the Puget Sound, just 80 feet from the shore of Jones Island.

"I could not believe what I was seeing in front of my eyes," Person said. "It went into a barrel roll, sort of a loop, it was inverted."

"It tried to pull up before it hit the water, but it was too low when it started the loop, and it didn't clear the water," he said of the plane crash. "Looked like it clipped a wing at first, went down very hard, burst into flames, broke apart, and instantly went under water."

The Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement, "A Beechcraft T-34 Mentor crashed into the water near Roche Harbor, Washington, around 11:40 a.m. local time Friday, June 7. Only the pilot was on board."

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board have launched an investigation into the deadly plane crash. The plane will be recovered from the water and will be examined by the NTSB at an offsite facility, where investigators will access tracking data, air traffic control communications recordings, and the pilot's flight experience.

You can watch video of the deadly crash here.

Anders' son, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Greg Anders, confirmed his father's sudden death and told the Associated Press, "The family is devastated. He was a great pilot and we will miss him terribly."

NASA Administrator Sen. Bill Nelson said of the famed astronaut, "In 1968, during Apollo 8, Bill Anders offered to humanity among the deepest of gifts an astronaut can give. He traveled to the threshold of the Moon and helped all of us see something else: ourselves. He embodied the lessons and the purpose of exploration. We will miss him."

Anders was part of the Apollo 8 team – the first manned mission to orbit the Moon. Anders was the lunar modular pilot, Frank Borman was the commander, and James Lovell was the command modular pilot.

Anders snapped the iconic "Earthrise" photo, which captured the moment our planet rose over the lunar horizon on Dec. 24. 1968.

CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

During the mission's Christmas Eve broadcast, Anders and the crew read from the book of Genesis.

We are now approaching lunar sunrise. And for all the people back on Earth, the crew of Apollo 8 has a message that we would like to send to you. 'In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.'

Lovell is the last surviving member of the original Apollo 8 crew.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Apollo 8's Christmas Eve 1968 Message www.youtube.com


Parents of PGA Tour golfer Grayson Murray reveal his tragic cause of death: 'We know he rests peacefully now'



The parents of professional golfer Grayson Murray have revealed his tragic cause of death a day after the two-time PGA Tour winner passed away at the age of 30.

As Blaze News reported on Saturday, Murray withdrew from the second round of the 2024 Charles Schwab Challenge on Friday – one day before his sudden death. Murray had played 16 holes in the second round Charles Schwab Challenge before withdrawing due to an "illness."

Life wasn't always easy for Grayson.

Grayson's parents – Eric and Terry Murray – issued a heartbreaking statement on Sunday, revealing that Murray's tragic cause of death was suicide.

"We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone," the grief-stricken parents began. "It's surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world. It’s a nightmare."

The parents expressed that they still "have so many questions that have no answers."

The Murrays noted that Grayson was loved by them, his brother Cameron, his sister Erica, his extended family, his friends, and his fellow players. They also pointed out that golf fans also loved their talented son as pointed out by the wave of compassion following Grayson's death.

"We would like to thank the PGA Tour and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support," the family said.

"Life wasn't always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now," the devastated parents lamented.

The parents concluded, "Please respect our privacy as we work through this incredible tragedy, and please honor Grayson by being kind to one another. If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else."

Murray had been open about his battles with alcoholism.

"Yes, I would drink during tournament weeks," Murray said after his Sony Open win in January, according to CBS Sports. "It was my outlet. I thought I was invincible coming out here as a 22-year-old, winning as a rookie, played three days hungover when I won. Best thing and worst thing that ever happened to me was winning my rookie year – but also feeling like I was invincible."

Murray added, "It took me a long time to get to this point. I'm a different man now. I would not be in this position right now today if I didn't put that drink down eight months ago."

He continued, "People who don't know me, I'll have to show it through my actions, and they'll get back on Grayson's side. My demeanor is so much better. It's really a lot of fun now. I really don't live and die by a golf shot anymore. I'm not going to sit here and say it's going to be all glory and roses, but it's going to be a lot better."

In January, Murray said that he had been sober since early 2023.

Murray won his second PGA Tour title at this year's Sony Open in Hawaii. His first big win came at the 2017 Barbasol Championship.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Two-time PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray dies at 30, one day after withdrawing from tournament over 'illness'



Professional golfer Grayson Murray died on Saturday morning, just one day after withdrawing from a tournament over an "illness." The two-time PGA Tour winner was only 30.

"We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA Tour player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words," PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan stated. "The PGA Tour is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones."

Monahan added, "I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked that we continue with tournament play. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes."

One day before his sudden death, Murray withdrew from the second round of the 2024 Charles Schwab Challenge. Murray had played 16 holes in the second round Charles Schwab Challenge before withdrawing due to an "illness."

Murray shot a 2-under 68 on Thursday, but was 5-over on Friday’s round at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. He withdrew from the tournament due to an undisclosed illness with two holes remaining.

No details have been provided about Murray's cause of death.

As a teen, Murray won three consecutive Callaway Junior World Championships and was the top-ranked golfer in his age group.

At age 16, Murray was the second-youngest golfer in history to make the cut on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Murray's pro golf career started in 2015 and was an immediate success. He won the 2017 Barbasol Championship while just a 23-year-old rookie.

Murray won his second PGA Tour title at this year's Sony Open in Hawaii.

Murray had been open with battles with alcoholism.

"Yes, I would drink during tournament weeks," Murray said after his Sony Open win in January, according to CBS Sports. "It was my outlet. I thought I was invincible coming out here as a 22-year-old, winning as a rookie, played three days hungover when I won. Best thing and worst thing that ever happened to me was winning my rookie year – but also feeling like I was invincible."

Murray continued, "It took me a long time to get to this point. I'm a different man now. I would not be in this position right now today if I didn't put that drink down eight months ago."

He added, "People who don't know me, I'll have to show it through my actions, and they'll get back on Grayson's side. My demeanor is so much better. It's really a lot of fun now. I really don't live and die by a golf shot anymore. I'm not going to sit here and say it's going to be all glory and roses, but it's going to be a lot better."

In January, Murray said that he had been sober since early 2023.

He truly would do anything for anyone.

Tributes poured in for the PGA golfer who died suddenly.

Murray's caddie, Jay Green, told the Golf Channel, "Grayson was the absolute best. Not only was he an incredible, thoughtful, and generous boss, he has an even better friend. He truly would do anything for anyone. He has the best family, and my heart goes out to them. We will all miss him deeply."

PGA golfer Bubba Watson said, "Very sad to hear the news of Grayson Murray’s passing today. Life is so fragile… I was just hugging you at the Masters, telling you how proud of you I am. Thankful to have known you. My deepest condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. He will be missed."

British golfer Luke Donald stated, "Truly devastating news that Grayson Murray has passed away. He asked me for some advice on how to play Augusta a few months ago, last week I saw him at the PGA Championship, life truly is precious. My condolences and prayers to his whole family that they may find some peace."

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Mother suing American Airlines over son's heart attack death during flight, alleging defibrillator was faulty and crew unprepared



A New York City mother filed a federal lawsuit against American Airlines over the 2022 death of her 14-year-old son. The suit alleges that the plane's onboard defibrillator did not function correctly and accuses the flight crew of being unprepared and not being properly trained to use the medical equipment.

Melissa Arzu and her son were on American Airlines flight 614 from Honduras to Miami after enjoying a family summer vacation. During the flight, her son suddenly experienced a medical emergency.

Her 14-year-old son, Kevin Greenidge, allegedly lost consciousness shortly after takeoff.

The lawsuit – filed in federal court in Fort Worth, Texas, where American Airlines is headquartered – alleged that the flight crew was "delayed in responding" to Greenidge's medical episode.

The lawsuit claims that crewmembers "eventually attempted to use" the plane's automated external defibrillator, but they were "either unable to properly operate the machine or the machine did not function properly."

The suit alleges that the crew was not properly trained on how to use the type of AED that was on the flight.

The flight made an emergency landing in Cancun, Mexico. Greenidge was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The New York Post reported that Kevin had been diagnosed with asthma and type 2 diabetes prior to his death, and that his primary cause of death was listed as "myocardial infarction" — commonly known as a heart attack.

The lawsuit claims that Greenidge's chances of survival would have "vastly" increased if the flight had a functioning AED that the crew knew how to use.

"After Kevin died, I never heard from American Airlines," Arzu said. "It made me feel hopeless. I want answers from American Airlines. I want American Airlines to take full responsibility for Kevin’s death. I never want this to happen to a child or family again."

American Airlines told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram: "Our thoughts are with Mr. Greenridge’s loved ones. We are going to decline further comment given this matter involves pending litigation."

Hannah Crowe, the attorney representing Arzu, said, "The loss of a child is truly unimaginable, and the facts of this case are horrendous. Multiple eyewitnesses confirm that American Airlines flight personnel were slow to respond and not able to operate the AED machine, which appeared not to work."

Crowe alleged, "After Kevin died, the equipment went missing. Did someone at American intentionally destroy it? Is it defective, but back out in service? These are all really serious violations of the federal laws that are in place to protect passengers."

The lawsuit also claims that American Airlines failed to submit an advance payment of $113,100 for the sudden death of the teen, as per the company’s policy regarding the death of a passenger while on board.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

American Airlines sued after 14-year-old dies www.youtube.com

Alice Stewart, veteran GOP advisor and CNN commentator, dies at 58 just hours after appearing on network: 'Can't believe she's gone'



Alice Stewart, a veteran GOP adviser and CNN political commentator, has died. She was 58.

Stewart's body was found outdoors in the northern Virginia neighborhood of Bellevue on Saturday morning, according to law enforcement officials.

Police said no foul play was suspected in her death and that Stewart likely suffered a medical emergency.

Just hours before her death, Stewart appeared on CNN's "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer" on Friday evening.

Stewart launched her career as a local reporter and producer in Georgia. She then worked as a news anchor in Little Rock, Arkansas.

From there, she became the communications director for then-Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee's 2008 campaign for president.

Stewart also served as communications director for GOP presidential candidates, including former Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, and Sen. Ted Cruz.

Tributes poured in for the longtime GOP adviser.

Sen. Cruz said in a post on the X social media platform, "Alice was wonderful and talented and a dear friend. She lived every day to the fullest, and she will be deeply missed."

Former Republican Congresswoman Barbara Comstock stated, "So saddened to hear of the sudden passing of ⁦Alice Stewart. Alice was a smart, principled and talented role model for women in politics and media and always a delight to be with. She will be missed."

Kellyanne Conway – ex-counselor to former President Donald Trump – said, "Alice Stewart was a remarkable woman of faith, a friend & colleague. She was the same person on-air & off-air: smart, witty, authentic, kind, respectful, insightful. She took the time to help those next in line. I loved &respected Alice & will miss her."

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie honored Stewart by saying, "I am stunned and saddened by the news of Alice Stewart’s passing. She was a political pro and a wonderfully nice person to just have a conversation with on any topic. I will miss Alice and will pray for her family."

Alyssa Farah Griffin – ex-communications director for former President Trump – remarked, "Gutted over this news. Alice Stewart was smart, savvy, funny & most importantly kind. She felt like she was from another era - a more decent one where we'd disagree respectfully. She was kind to me when I was in a low place & I’ll never forget it. Sending love to those closest to her."

Stewart was hired by CNN as a political commentator ahead of the 2016 presidential election.

CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer stated, "I’m so sad that my friend and CNN colleague Alice Stewart has passed away. It was only yesterday when she joined Maria Cardona and me for her always excellent political analysis. She was a very special person and we will miss her. May she Rest In Peace and may her Memory Be A Blessing."

CNN anchor Jake Tapper said, "Horrible news about our beloved and gifted commentator Alice Stewart. Just awful. We are all gutted."

Political commentator Ana Navarro stated, "I'm very sad about this news. Alice was kind, decent, hard-working and a woman whose faith sustained her. She was a breath of fresh air – always professional – at a time when lack of decorum and civility reign in political discussions. May she rest in peace."

CNN anchor Jim Acosta added, My heart is broken over the passing of our dear colleague Alice Stewart. We’ve been friends going back to the 2012 campaign. We spent so many weekends talking politics with the wonderful Maria Cardona – they always spoke so passionately but with kindness and civility. Alice was my friend and I loved her. RIP."

Democratic political strategist Maria Cardona said, "I am turned inside out at this tragic news. As many know, Alice & I were like sisters from opposite ends of the political aisle. We debated but with respect. I will miss her dearly but seems God needed some top-notch communications help. RIP beautiful friend."

CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins expressed, "Just devastating news about our colleague Alice Stewart. She will always be remembered by her kindness above all."

Democratic political strategist Donna Brazile said, "I first met Alice when she joined CNN. A smart, wise and affable colleague who will be missed. My condolences to her family and many colleagues and friends. Rest in peace."

Former CNN anchor Poppy Harlow added, "Sending my love and support to Alice Stewart’s family tonight. She was a remarkable woman who I always loved having on our shows. She was whip-smart, deeply thoughtful, and always kind. She will be so missed."

CNN anchor Dana Bash paid her respects, "Alice Stewart was a woman’s woman who brought kindness and support along with smarts and expertise. I met her in Iowa in 2007 covering the Huckabee presidential campaign and worked with her in politics before I got to call her a CNN colleague. I can’t believe she’s gone."

Former CNN anchor Brian Stelter said, "Such an awful shock. Alice Stewart was a consummate pro who made every show she was on so much BETTER. More importantly, she had a huge heart and a generous spirit."

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

CNN political commentator Alice Stewart dies at age 58 www.youtube.com

Long Island volleyball coach accused of raping girl, 15, commits suicide by train hours after appearing in court: Police



A New York high school volleyball coach accused of raping a 15-year-old girl committed suicide by train hours after making his first appearance in court for the alleged child sex crimes, according to police.

Jason Maser, 22, had been a volleyball coach at Sacred Heart Academy — an all-girls Catholic school in Hempstead, New York. Maser was also a coach at B&B Volleyball — a club team based in Long Island.

Maser's alleged victim played on both teams.

Maser was fired from Sacred Heart Academy and B&B Volleyball after the rape allegations.

According to the New York Daily News, B&B Volleyball informed parents it had learned of an "inappropriate sexual relationship between an adult who coached for B&B Volleyball and one of our players."

Sacred Heart officials said they contacted authorities “immediately” after finding out about the accusations.

Special Victims Squad officers arrested Maser at his home in Syosset on Thursday. He was charged with two counts of third-degree rape and two counts of criminal sex act in addition to endangering the welfare of a child, according to the criminal complaint.

Police accused Maser of raping a 15-year-old girl at least twice inside his Jeep in Albertson on Feb. 7 and March 7, according to the complaint.

The former part-time coach at Sacred Heart Academy made his first court appearance regarding the allegations on Friday afternoon in Hempstead.

Maser pleaded not guilty to the charges. He posted $75,000 bail and was released.

Judge Marie F. McCormack ordered Maser to stay away from the alleged victim.

Maser reportedly killed himself hours after appearing in court.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority told 1010 WINS that Maser "intentionally" stepped in front of Long Island Rail Road train #1573 at the Woodbury Road crossing in Syosset around 10:35 p.m. on Friday.

MTA police said Maser was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Nassau County Police Department identified the body as Maser.

MTA Police Department spokesperson Michael Cortez said Maser left a suicide note before allegedly committing suicide by train.

Maser’s lawyer, John Carman, said Maser's family is devastated by the sudden death.

Carman told Newsday over the weekend, "While they process what has occurred, they are concerned for the young woman involved."

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Guatemalan illegal immigrant accused of police sergeant's death is released from ICE custody



An illegal immigrant from Guatemala accused of being involved with the death of a Florida police sergeant has been released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.

Virgilio Aguilar Mendez, 19, was accused of being involved with the death of St. Johns County Sgt. Michael Kunovich.

The incident happened around 9 p.m. on May 19, when Kunovich approached Mendez for "suspicious behavior" outside a closed restaurant in St. Augustine, according to the arrest report.

"Aguilar Mendez was walking on a public sidewalk and speaking with his mother, which is not a crime," a lawsuit read. "When Sgt. Kunovich seized Aguilar Mendez, he stopped and did not try to flee."

Police bodycam footage shows Kunovich asking the teen for identification, but Mendez does not speak English.

Bodycam video shows Mendez resisting as Kunovich attempts to pat him down. Police said the teen did have a small pocket knife in his possession at the time of the confrontation.

A struggle ensued and a deputy tased Mendez, and the teen was thrown on the grass.

The police restrained Mendez.

However, Kunovich suffered a medical emergency during the encounter and collapsed to the ground. The Florida police sergeant was rushed to the hospital, but he was later pronounced dead.

Mendez was charged with aggravated manslaughter of an officer for the sudden death of Kunovich.

However, prosecutors dropped the criminal charges against the illegal alien following the results of Kunovich's autopsy that said the 52-year-old police officer died suddenly of natural causes after suffering cardiac dysrhythmia. The medical examiner said the death may have been a result of the severe heart disease he was alleged to have, a prior heart attack, or heart and lung deterioration due to smoking.

There were also arguments by the defense that Mendez was incompetent to stand trial.

The 7th District State Attorney’s Office said in a statement, "Recent expert testimony regarding the defendant’s inability to comprehend the English language, his cultural background, and concerns about his intellectual capacity have raised significant issues to consider in the case."

Mendez's criminal defense attorney, Jose Baez, accused the police officers of racial profiling and conducting an "unlawful arrest."

St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said in a statement earlier this month, "There have been attempts by some to portray Aguilar Mendez as a victim and vilify Sergeant Kunovich. I continue to stand behind Sergeant Kunovich's actions on the night of May 19, 2023. The danger associated with law enforcement is a risk we assume when we enter this profession. Sergeant Kunovich died a hero protecting the citizens of St. Johns County and there is nothing more noble than that. Please continue to hold our agency and Sergeant Kunovich's family in your thoughts and prayers."

First Coast News reported, "According to the incident report, Mendez is a migrant worker from Guatemala and told police he was previously in immigration custody for six months."

Kunovich was a 25-year veteran of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Virgilio Aguilar Mendez RELEASED www.youtube.com