Parents of 5-year-old cancer victim plead for return of stolen statue from South Florida park

CNN Newsource on August 9, 2026

By Nikiya Carrero

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    MIAMI (WFOR) — The parents of a 5-year-old boy who died of cancer are pleading for the return of a commemorative statue stolen from a park dedicated to his memory.

For the past six years, a life-size bronze replica of Jake Duque has stood atop a concrete platform in a Miami Lakes park named in his honor. Jake, who died in 2020 after battling diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma—an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer—became a symbol of hope for thousands of followers known as “Jakey’s Army.”

His parents, Karen and Orlando Duque, said they were in disbelief when they received a phone call Saturday morning informing them the 44-inch-tall statue was gone.

“We literally said, ‘Go back! You must not have seen it.’ We still are in shock,” Karen Duque said.

The impact of the theft was felt immediately by the family, including the couple’s 4-year-old child. “I’ll tell you what our 4-year-old told us this morning: ‘Someone took our brother? My brother? Who would take my brother?'” Karen Duque said.

The statue was a focal point of comfort for both the family and the community, Orlando Duque said.

“You know, when you see this sunset now in a couple of minutes, you’ll understand the peace that people see here,” he said. “And that peace comes not only from God, but from my boy Jakey. That’s what we’re missing here.”

A plaque located beneath the statue’s former site reads: “He planted mustard seeds of faith that transformed the lives of thousands of people.”

The parents are asking for the return of the statue, noting that it holds no monetary value but is irreplaceable to their family and the community. “There’s no value. The statue is priceless to us,” Karen Duque said. “It’s not just a statue. It’s a representation of a boy who impacted so many people’s lives, and it’s a statue that belongs to the community. It belongs to everyone.”

The parents stated they do not wish to press charges if the statue is returned.

Anyone with information regarding the missing statue is asked to contact the family at 305-915-7050.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Pennsylvania woman found guilty of third-degree murder in toddler’s death

CNN Newsource on August 9, 2026

By Garrett Behanna

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    FAYETTE COUNTY, Pennsylvania (KDKA) — A Fayette County woman was found guilty of third-degree murder in the 2024 death of her 2-year-old stepchild, according to a news release from the Fayette County District Attorney’s Office.

Brianna Bloyer, 32, was convicted by a jury in the death of Bentlee Myers, who died Aug. 19, 2024, after suffering blunt force trauma to the head.

The case began after someone went to Bloyer’s home on Old Lake Lynn Road in Springhill Township on Aug. 16, 2024, and found Bentlee unconscious, bruised and blue in the face. The toddler was taken to a hospital, where he was declared brain dead.

According to the district attorney’s office, prosecutors presented additional evidence during the trial showing the child had cuts and bruises in various stages of healing.

When police interviewed Bloyer, she said the boy had been staying with her for about two weeks. She said when she woke the boy up the morning of Aug. 16, he was stumbling and later collapsed.

Investigators said a search of her phone showed she searched “how to get someone to come to when you pass out” that day, and earlier she had Googled questions like “why am I so much more angry while pregnant” and “what better to make bruises fade overnight.” A search of her device also showed that she didn’t try to call 911 on Aug. 16, police said.

Bloyer was initially charged with homicide in the case. The jury ultimately convicted her of third-degree murder.

The conviction carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison under Pennsylvania law.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Columbia man arrested on suspicion of early morning shots-fired

KMIZ on August 9, 2026

Marie Moyer

EDITOR’S NOTE: The headline was updated to accurately reflect the incident.

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Columbia Police Department has identified 20-year-old Tavan Eric Williams-Patrick of Columbia as the suspect who allegedly fired shots in downtown Columbia early Sunday morning.

According to a CPD press release, officers on foot heard shots being fired in the 800 block of Walnut Street and saw Williams-Patrick holding a gun and attempting to place it down on the sidewalk.

Williams-Patrick was arrested while trying to run away from the scene on charges of fourth-degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Columbia Police Department Lieutenant Anthony Bowne said on scene the suspect was found with a handgun and was taken into custody. He also reported that no one was injured and no property was damaged, but evidence of shots fired was found.

An ABC 17 News reporter on scene observed police taping off several blocks of E Walnut Street from 8th Street to 9th Street at around 1:20 a.m.

At least nine evidence markers were placed on the sidewalk, and officers putting items in brown paper bags were seen in the area during the police investigation.

A Boone County Joint Communication and a University of Missouri Alert were also sent off at around 1:20 a.m., notifying residents of police activity and an investigation in the area.

“Police are investigating the reports of gunshots at/near Ninth and Walnut. Please stay away from the area,” according to an MU Alert.

Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, the University of Missouri Police Department and at least 10 Columbia Police Department cruisers were seen responding.

Police tape came down at around 2:15 a.m.

Check back for updates.

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Smoke from Central Oregon fires expected to impact air quality

KTVZ on August 9, 2026

Tracee Tuesday

CENTRAL OREGON (KTVZ) — Smoke from several active wildfires is expected to bring unhealthy air quality to parts of Central Oregon, with the heaviest periods forecast during morning and overnight hours.

Smoke in the region is expected to come primarily from the Rowe Creek Complex. Additional smoke from the Grasshopper Fire could affect Spray and Ukiah in the afternoon, while the Shingle Fire could bring added smoke impacts to Paulina in the evening.

Hot and dry conditions are expected to continue into Sunday, keeping fire activity active and contributing to another day of unhealthy air quality across the region. Periods of unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups are also possible during the afternoon and evening.

Residents are urged to reduce outdoor exposure, avoid strenuous activity and consider using an N95 respirator. People driving through smoky areas should keep windows closed and set their vehicle air conditioning to recirculate mode.

To limit indoor smoke exposure, residents should close doors and windows and create a cleaner-air room inside their homes.

For current air quality information, visit AirNow’s fire and smoke map.

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Rotary grant brings free smoke protection kits to Central Oregon

KTVZ on August 9, 2026

Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Central Oregon residents affected by wildfire smoke will soon have access to free box fan air purifier kits and N95 masks through a grant from Rotary International District 5110’s Disaster Response Fund.

A total of 600 box fan air purifier kits and 200 N95 masks will be available beginning Aug. 15 for people adversely affected by wildfire smoke. The supplies are funded through a $21,120 grant and will serve communities in Prineville, Madras, Warm Springs, Sisters and Black Butte.

Local Rotary clubs will assemble and distribute the supplies in their communities. Cindi O’Neil, a Bend Rotarian and former district governor who submitted the grant request, said Rotary clubs are prepared to help meet both immediate and long-term needs when disasters affect Central Oregon communities.

In Prineville and Crook County, box fan kits will be distributed through the county health department, ODHS, Mosaic, the senior center, Neighborhood Impact, Mitchell Wheeler County Trading Company and the Post General Store.

The Rotary Club of Crook County partnered with Les Schwab of Prineville to deliver box fans to central distribution points. The Red Cross also helped identify outlying residents dealing with wildfire smoke in their homes, according to Sara Beeler, president of the Rotary Club of Crook County.

For Sisters and Black Butte residents, free box fan kits will be available at the Sisters Parks and Recreation Department, 611 E. Cascade Ave., beginning Aug. 17.

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FIRE ALERT: Crescent Butte Fire has now burned 194 acres in Klamath County

KTVZ on August 9, 2026

Tracee Tuesday

(Update – August 9, 2026: Crescent Butte Fire has now burned 194 acres)

CRESCENT, Ore. (KTVZ) — Crews responded to a reported vegetation fire on Saturday, near Crescent in Klamath County, where smoke was visible from the area.

The fire is now known as the Crescent Butte Fire, according to WildCAD. It is burning about a half-mile northwest of Crescent Butte, near Crescent, and was estimated at 80 acres.

A Level 1, “Be Ready,” evacuation order is in place.

Klamath County established a temporary evacuation point at La Pine High School.

Limited information was immediately available about the fire. Officials continue to monitor the situation.

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7 hospitalized for heat-related illnesses at Colorado Springs festival

KRDO on August 9, 2026

Michael Logerwell

Update: The Colorado Springs Fire Department initially stated that 35 patients were treated and 10 were transported. The updated information is that 72 total patients were treated, with 7 patients transported to area hospitals experiencing serious symptoms of dehydration and/or intoxication.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – The high temperatures hammered people at the Tacos and Tequila Festival in Colorado Springs on Saturday.

Organizers describe the festival as “throwback hip-hop, tacos, margaritas, games, contests, and great summer memories–all in one day.”

The Colorado Springs Fire Department says they treated 35 people for heat-related illnesses at Saturday’s event. 10 of those cases were so severe that they required hospitalization.

A fire department spokesperson is reminding the community that they need to take precautions when spending time outdoors in hot temperatures. Stay hydrated by drinking water, take breaks from the heat if you can, and check on those who may be more vulnerable to high temperatures.

CSFD also wants you to keep in mind the different symptoms for heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion:

Excessive sweating

Dizziness

Thirst

Nausea

Weakness

Muscle cramps

Headache

Signs of Heat Stroke:

Confusion

Slurred speech

Nausea

Rapid pulse

Loss of consciousness

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Palm Springs group pushes for decriminalization of psychedelic plants and fungi

KESQ on August 9, 2026

Timothy Foster

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — A group in Palm Springs is continuing its effort to decriminalize or deprioritize the enforcement of laws involving certain psychedelic plants and fungi.

The Palm Springs Psychedelic Society held an educational event Saturday at the Mizell Center, one year after the organization first introduced the community to the Decriminalize Nature movement.

The group is seeking support for a proposed resolution that would ask the Palm Springs City Council to decriminalize entheogenic plants and fungi, including substances containing psilocybin.

Organizers say the proposal has been presented to all five Palm Springs City Council members. The resolution would need the support of at least three council members to move forward.

John Ninos, a Palm Springs resident involved with the effort, said the goal of the educational events is to provide information about the potential uses of psychedelics and challenge what he described as longstanding stigma surrounding the substances.

Supporters point to research involving psychedelics and areas including depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD and end-of-life care. They say greater education could help people better understand the potential benefits and risks.

Scott Rusczky, president of the Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network, also attended Saturday’s event. He said education is important when discussing both cannabis and psychedelic substances.

Supporters also emphasized that decriminalization would not mean legalization.

Under a decriminalization approach, possession or use of certain substances could become a lower law enforcement priority, while the substances would remain illegal under state and federal law unless those laws are changed.

The Palm Springs Psychedelic Society says it hopes the city will eventually consider its proposed resolution. If approved, supporters say Palm Springs would become the seventh city in California to adopt a decriminalization policy involving entheogenic plants and fungi and the first in Southern California.

The movement remains controversial, with supporters citing potential therapeutic benefits while critics have raised concerns about safety, misuse and the lack of broad legal authorization for psychedelic substances.

For now, organizers say they plan to continue holding educational events and talking with members of the community as they seek support for the proposal.

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Mexico man seriously hurt after hitting deer on motorcycle

KMIZ on August 9, 2026

Olivia Hayes

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Mexico, Missouri man is in serious condition after hitting a deer on his motorcycle Saturday afternoon.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the crash happened just after 2:15 p.m. when the motorist was driving northbound on Route C when the deer ran into the road.

The 63-year-old man hit the deer and was ejected off his motorcycle just .2 miles south of Audrain County road 132, according to the report.

The motorcycle slid off the right side of the road and came to a stop in the southbound lane, the report says.

MSHP Troop F does not name the victims in their reports.

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Hartsburg man dead, passenger seriously hurt after crash involving truck and two motorcycles in Osage County

KMIZ on August 9, 2026

Olivia Hayes

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Kyle Green confirmed Saturday that one person died after a crash involving a truck and two motorcycles on U.S. Highway 63 in Osage County today.

Troop F reported in an update to social media Saturday night that the person killed was a 61-year-old Hartsburg man.

Around 3 p.m. Saturday, Troop F posted on social media that a crash on Highway 63 at County Road 512 in Osage County near Westphalia had blocked the roadway. It also stated that the crash had resulted in injuries.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the man was riding on one of the motorcycles when the Chevy truck crossed the center line and hit him head on.

The man went off the right side of the road and overturned, ejecting him and his female passenger. The woman is in serious condition, according to the report.

Debris from the impact hit the second motorcycle driver and caused them to overturn in the road, the report says.

🚨Westphalia Crash Blocking U.S. 63 🚨

Troopers are investigating a multiple vehicle crash with injuries on U.S. 63, at County Road 512, in Osage County.

A helicopter is en route for two patients.

The roadway is blocked. Please avoid the area and use an alternate route. pic.twitter.com/ZQQvpWxZmo

— MSHP Troop F (@MSHPTrooperF) August 8, 2026

The post said a helicopter was on its was for two of the patients, but did not say if any other people involved in the crash were hurt or how many cars were involved in total.

This is Troop F’s fourth fatality for the month of Aug. and 40th for 2026.

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