The 1stLADY POV Weekly Round Up 07/10-07/15

1. Nolan Wells’ Body Found After July 4 Boat Trip; Investigation Continues

Authorities have recovered the body of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells, who disappeared during a Fourth of July boating trip to Horn Island, Mississippi. Wells was reported missing after friends returned from the island without him. According to investigators, he had remained on the island while others left.

An extensive search involving the U.S. Coast Guard, Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Department of Marine Resources, Gulf Islands National Seashore, United Cajun Navy volunteers, and local law enforcement lasted for several days before his body was located in the waters near Horn Island.

At this time, authorities have not announced a cause of death and say there is no confirmed evidence of foul play, but the investigation remains active. Detectives are asking anyone who was on or near Horn Island on July 4 to provide photographs, videos, or information that may help determine exactly what happened.

Wells was a recent graduate of Ocean Springs High School and had begun playing football at Southwest Mississippi Community College. Friends, coaches, teachers, and community members have remembered him as a kind, respectful, hardworking young man with a bright future. His family has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who has called for a transparent investigation and an independent review. 

2. Former Sacramento State Football Player Dies After Central California Crash

Former Sacramento State offensive lineman Garza, 25, died following a traffic collision in Delano, California, after being struck by a vehicle.

Despite lifesaving efforts from first responders, he died from his injuries at the scene. Family members, former teammates, coaches, and members of the Sacramento State community have shared tributes honoring his leadership, strong work ethic, and dedication both on and off the football field.

Garza played for the Sacramento State Hornets from 2020 to 2022 and was widely respected for his positive attitude and commitment to his teammates. The university expressed its condolences to his family, friends, and everyone impacted by his passing.

Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

3. Man Sentenced in 2017 Killing of Estranged Wife’s Partner

A Yolo County man, Ken Allard, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2017 murder of his estranged wife's partner, Patrick O'Neil.

According to prosecutors, Allard entered the victim's residence and fatally stabbed O'Neil multiple times in what investigators described as a jealous and deliberate attack. Evidence presented during the trial showed that the killing was motivated by anger over his estranged wife's relationship with the victim.

During sentencing, the court emphasized the devastating impact the murder had on O'Neil's family and loved ones. The judge stated that justice had finally been served, while acknowledging that no sentence could undo the family's loss.

4. Missing Child Alert: Laura Johnson

Law enforcement is searching for Laura Johnson, a 15-year-old girl who has been missing since June 24, 2026, from Santa Fe Springs, California.

Laura is described as:

• Age: 15
• Height: 5'2"
• Weight: Approximately 160 lbs
• Hair: Black
• Eyes: Brown

Authorities urge anyone who has seen Laura or has information about her whereabouts to contact their local law enforcement agency immediately. Investigators continue to ask the public to remain alert and report any credible sightings that could help safely locate her.

5. Most Wanted: Javier Padilla

Law enforcement officials are seeking the public's help in locating Javier Padilla, who is currently listed as Most Wanted by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.

Padilla is wanted for indecency with a child involving sexual contact.

His description includes:

• Age: 46
• Height: 5'8"
• Weight: 190 lbs
• Hair: Black
• Eyes: Brown

Authorities advise the public not to approach him if he is seen. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the El Paso County Sheriff's Office immediately at 915-546-2280 or submit information through local law enforcement.

A homicide investigation is underway in the Arden-Arcade area after a 31-year-old man was shot and killed at a business located in the 1000 block of Howe Avenue on June 6. According to authorities, the shooting occurred before Sacramento County Sheriff's deputies arrived at the scene. Despite emergency response efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased.

Investigators report that the suspect fled the area before law enforcement arrived and remains at large. Detectives are actively pursuing leads and reviewing evidence as they work to identify and locate the individual responsible. The victim's name has not yet been released pending family notification. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office.

A disturbing homicide case in Berkeley has led to the arrest of a suspect after a 37-year-old woman was discovered deceased inside a suitcase located within her apartment. The discovery prompted an immediate investigation by Berkeley police, who quickly identified a potential suspect connected to the victim.

Authorities arrested 28-year-old Damarcus Jones of Dixon in connection with the case. Prosecutors have formally charged Jones with murder. Investigators continue to gather evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the woman's death. The victim's identity has not been publicly released as officials continue notifying family members and conducting the ongoing investigation.

Sacramento police have arrested a Citrus Heights man following a fatal stabbing that occurred in the 900 block of Del Paso Boulevard. Officers responded to reports of a violent incident and located an adult male suffering from serious stab wounds. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Following the investigation, authorities identified and arrested 46-year-old James Dougherty in connection with the stabbing. Dougherty was taken into custody and faces charges related to the homicide. Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter. The victim's name has not yet been publicly released.

Law enforcement officials are seeking the public's assistance in locating Elijah Turner Reyes, a 24-year-old man wanted in connection with a murder investigation in El Paso. Authorities describe Reyes as armed, dangerous, and potentially involved in additional criminal activity.

In addition to the murder investigation, Reyes reportedly has outstanding warrants related to aggravated robbery and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He is described as 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing approximately 165 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and visible tattoos on his neck, chest, and arms. Officials strongly advise the public not to approach Reyes if spotted. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts should immediately contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).

Authorities in Oakland are asking for the public's help in locating 14-year-old Madilynn Torres, who was reported missing after she was last seen on May 16, 2026. Investigators are actively working to determine her whereabouts and are urging community members to remain alert and report any sightings.

Madilynn is described as being 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing approximately 110 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. At the time she was last seen, she was reportedly wearing a gray hoodie, black leggings, and white shoes. Oakland Police Department officials are asking anyone with information about Madilynn's location to contact them immediately at (510) 777-3333. Family members and investigators remain hopeful for her safe return.

1. POLITICS UPDATE: KAREN BASS LEADS L.A. MAYORAL RACE

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass remains the frontrunner in the city's mayoral race and has successfully advanced to the November runoff election. Preliminary election results indicate that Bass continues to maintain a lead over her opponents as vote counting progresses throughout the city.

Political analysts note that Bass's strong support base and incumbent status have helped position her favorably in the race. Election officials are continuing to tally ballots, and final certified results are expected in the coming weeks. The runoff election will determine who will lead Los Angeles through its next term amid ongoing discussions surrounding public safety, homelessness, housing affordability, and economic development.

2. DEADLY SHOOTING AFTER FAIRFIELD HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

A graduation celebration turned tragic following the Sem Yeto High School commencement ceremony held at Fairfield High School. Authorities reported that an 18-year-old was killed during the incident, while three others, including an 11-year-old child, suffered injuries.

Law enforcement officials continue to search for the suspect responsible for the shooting and are urging anyone with information to come forward. The investigation remains active as detectives work to determine the circumstances that led to the violence and identify those involved.

3. 18-YEAR-OLD RECENT GRADUATE RAY’MYA RENE SILVAN SHOT AND KILLED IN NEW ORLEANS

The New Orleans community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old Ray’Mya Rene Silvan, a recent graduate of Warren Easton High School. Silvan was preparing to begin the next chapter of her life by attending Loyola University in New Orleans.

Police arrested her former boyfriend, Daniel Victor Romero, in connection with the case. Romero is facing a second-degree murder charge as investigators continue to gather evidence and review the circumstances surrounding her death. Community members have expressed their grief and support for Silvan's family while advocating for greater awareness regarding relationship violence.

4. 81-YEAR-OLD ACTOR JAMES HANDY FATALLY STABBED IN TARZANA

Veteran actor James Handy, known for his appearances in Top Gun: Maverick, Jumanji, and numerous television productions, reportedly died after a stabbing at a residence in Tarzana, California.

Authorities arrested Michael Geldhill in connection with the incident, and prosecutors have filed a murder charge. Investigators continue to review evidence and interview witnesses as they work to determine what led to the fatal attack. The entertainment industry and fans have expressed sadness over the reported loss of the longtime actor.

5. MOST WANTED: VICTOR MATA

Law enforcement officials continue to seek the public's assistance in locating Victor Mata, who is wanted in connection with an aggravated assault involving a deadly weapon. Authorities consider Mata a person of interest in an ongoing investigation and are asking community members to remain vigilant.

Officials advise anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers immediately. Members of the public are urged not to approach or attempt to apprehend Mata themselves. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and authorities emphasize that public cooperation remains critical to bringing the case to a resolution.

6. MISSING CHILD: JOURNEY CIENFUEGOS

The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in locating 15-year-old Journey Cienfuegos, who was reported missing on April 26, 2026, from Fair Oaks, California.

Journey is described as being 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing approximately 110 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. According to investigators, she was last seen wearing a gray hoodie, black leggings, and white shoes. Anyone with information regarding Journey's whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office immediately. Authorities continue to investigate and hope community awareness will help bring her home safely.