Investigation launched into death of 80-year-old inmate in Maryland prison

CUMBERLAND, MD— Maryland State Police have launched an investigation into the death of 80-year-old state prison inmate Ralph Ruark. Ruark, who was serving his sentence at the Western Correctional Institution in Cumberland, was pronounced dead by emergency medical services and taken to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for a forensic examination.

The incident that led to Ruark’s death occurred just before 3:30 p.m. yesterday. The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit was notified by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services’ Internal Investigations Unit at 4:10 p.m. the same day.

The investigation is being led by the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, with additional assistance from State Police crime scene technicians and the Department of Public Safety and Corrections’ Internal Investigations Unit. The results of the investigation will ultimately be reviewed by the Allegany County District Attorney’s Office.

As the investigation into the circumstances of Ruark’s death continues, further details are expected.

PRINCETON, NJ—During the annual Pride Month celebration in Drumthwacket on June 17, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 361 establishing the Advisory Commission to Promote Equity and Inclusion for LGBTQIA+ Youth in Schools. This initiative aims to improve the supportive and equitable environment for LGBTQIA+ students across New Jersey.

The commission will address key issues such as harassment, bullying and the increased risk of mental health issues among LGBTQIA+ youth, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. “Providing for the well-being of New Jersey’s young people is a responsibility I do not take lightly,” said Governor Murphy, emphasizing the importance of creating welcoming educational spaces.

Acting Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer expressed a strong commitment to equity, inclusion and respect. The commission will review education policies, recommend inclusive practices and advise on curriculum integrity and professional development for educators.

The commission will consist of 20 to 25 members, including five cabinet members or their designees from key departments. Kate Okeson, a veteran New Jersey educator and activist for the LGBTQIA+ community, has been appointed executive director of the commission. Her leadership is expected to lead to significant progress in making New Jersey schools inclusive and positive for all students.

MIDDLETOWN, NJ— As President Joe Biden prepares for a high-profile visit to Governor Phil Murphy’s waterfront estate next Saturday for a fundraiser, supporters of former President Donald Trump are planning a remarkable demonstration. A Trump boat parade is scheduled to take place on the Navesink River, just outside Governor Murphy’s mansion.

Scheduled for Saturday, June 29, the parade is designed to coincide with President Biden’s visit and is therefore expected to attract a lot of attention and participation from Trump supporters in the area. This river parade highlights the political enthusiasm in New Jersey, a state known for its vibrant and sometimes contentious political landscape.

Local authorities are warning both residents and tourists to expect possible delays and increased traffic in the area, especially along routes leading to and from the governor’s mansion. Both the Trump boat parade and President Biden’s visit are likely to create a busy atmosphere along the New Jersey shore.

Fans of President Trump called for an impromptu boat parade on X (formerly Twitter). For several years, Trump’s boat parades along the New Jersey shore have attracted thousands of visitors and boats. Until now, no one has announced an official parade.

RED BANK, NJ—This Sunday, June 23, Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard in Red Bank will celebrate its first anniversary with a celebration to thank the community for its support. The local branch of Lance & Emelda Jamison is located at 19 West Front Street and is hosting the event from 2-4 p.m.

Festivities include $5 gift certificates for the first 25 guests to make a purchase. Additionally, the first 30 guests will have the opportunity to tie-dye Rita’s t-shirts. Specials will be available throughout the day, including a small Italian ice for $2 and a small gelati for $3.

PHILADELPHIA, PA—A Philadelphia police officer was seriously injured after being shot in the neck during a traffic stop in the Kensington neighborhood Saturday night. The incident occurred just before 8 p.m. in the 3500 block of F Street.

Following the shooting, authorities began a two-hour manhunt that ended with the arrest of the suspect around 10 p.m. near the 800 block of E. Schiller Street. The officer was immediately transported to Temple University Hospital and is currently in critical condition.

During the incident, a communications helicopter is said to have disrupted the operation and had to be called back by the police.

The Philadelphia Police Department had requested a media helicopter to immediately leave the area around 800 Schiller Street to prevent disruption to ongoing operations and to ensure the safety of officers.

Cpl. Jasmine Reilly of the Office of Media Relations/Public Affairs issued a statement confirming the details and providing contact information for further inquiries.

MANHATTAN, NY—Early Saturday, June 22, at 2:10 a.m., New York City police arrested 24-year-old Diego Figueroa-Hepner in connection with a fatal stabbing attack. The arrest occurred at 725 West 172 Street in the 33rd Precinct.

Figueroa-Hepner is charged with first-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm. This follows a disturbing event on Friday, June 21, when police responded to a 911 call reporting a stabbing at the 175 Street and Fort Washington subway station at 5:55 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found 40-year-old Johnny Medina with multiple stab wounds to his upper body.

Medina was transported to NYC Health and Hospitals/Harlem where he was later pronounced dead. The investigation into Medina’s death is ongoing and further updates are expected as authorities proceed with their next steps.