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Tragic Crash in Gastonia Claims Life of Beloved Woman, Rashonda Greene; Young Driver Faces DUI and Other Charges

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Tragic Crash in Gastonia Claims Life of Beloved Woman, Rashonda Greene; Young Driver Faces DUI and Other Charges

GASTONIA, N.C. — June 17, 2025 — A devastating car crash late Monday night has left the Gastonia community in mourning following the death of 45-year-old Rashonda Greene, a cherished mother, friend, and neighbor known for her unwavering kindness and deep devotion to her family. The tragic incident unfolded around 9:45 p.m. on June 16 at the busy intersection of East Hudson Boulevard and Armstrong Park Road.

According to the Gastonia Police Department, emergency responders arrived at the scene of a violent two-vehicle collision involving a white sedan and a dark-colored SUV. Investigators believe the driver of the sedan, a 21-year-old man whose identity has not yet been released, was speeding and ran a red light before slamming into Greene’s vehicle. Witnesses described the crash as explosive and said the impact could be heard blocks away.

Rashonda Greene, who was driving home after visiting a close friend, was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of first responders to revive her. Police say she was wearing her seatbelt and following all traffic laws at the time of the crash. Her vehicle suffered catastrophic damage, particularly on the driver’s side, where the other vehicle made direct contact.

The young male driver was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been taken into custody. Police confirmed on Tuesday that he is facing multiple serious charges, including driving under the influence, reckless driving, vehicular manslaughter, and running a red light. Preliminary toxicology reports suggest he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Authorities say this case is being investigated thoroughly, and more charges may be filed as the investigation continues. The suspect’s name will be released once formal charges are processed, and he is expected to make his first court appearance later this week.

A Life Cut Short

Rashonda Greene’s untimely death has left a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the broader Gaston County community. Described as a beacon of positivity and resilience, Greene worked as a certified nursing assistant at a local senior care facility, where she was admired for her compassion, patience, and dedication to her patients.

“She loved taking care of people,” said Tanya Hill, a longtime coworker. “Whether it was at work or at home, Rashonda had a heart that just wouldn’t quit. She was everyone’s safe place.”

Greene was also a devoted mother of three children, ranging in age from 10 to 23. Family members say she had just celebrated her youngest daughter’s birthday days before the tragedy and was planning a summer vacation for the family.

“She was our rock,” said her sister, LaTasha Greene. “She held this family together. It doesn’t feel real that she’s gone because she was just so full of life.”

Community in Mourning

As word of Greene’s death spread, tributes began pouring in on social media from friends, neighbors, and former colleagues. A growing memorial now sits near the crash site, where flowers, candles, and handwritten notes have been placed in her honor. Several local churches have organized prayer vigils and support groups for those grieving her loss.

“This was not just another accident,” said Pastor Marcus Boyd of New Hope Baptist Church. “This was a senseless and preventable tragedy that took a mother, a sister, and a friend away from us. We must do better to address reckless behavior on our roads.”

Local advocacy groups are using the tragedy as a call to action against impaired driving, urging the city to consider stronger enforcement measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Seeking Justice and Healing

While the criminal justice system begins its course, Greene’s family is focused on ensuring that her life and legacy are not forgotten. A public memorial service is being planned for later this week, with details to be announced by the family soon.

A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to assist with funeral expenses and support Greene’s children during this difficult time. Community members are being encouraged to contribute and share the campaign widely.

“This didn’t have to happen,” said LaTasha Greene. “She had so much more life to live. We just want justice for Rashonda — and for no other family to have to go through what we’re experiencing right now.”

As Gastonia mourns the loss of one of its own, many are left grappling with the harsh reminder of how quickly lives can be changed — or taken — by a single, reckless decision.

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LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA — Double Fatal Shooting at Super 1 Foods Sparks Ongoing Investigation LAFAYETTE, LA (June 18, 2025) — A regular weekday morning at the Super 1 Foods grocery store in Lafayette turned into a scene of chaos and horror as a shocking act of gun violence erupted, leaving two individuals dead and a community shaken to its core. The incident occurred at the Super 1 Foods located at 215 Willow Street, just a few miles north of downtown Lafayette, and has since drawn intense public attention and a swift law enforcement response. According to the Lafayette Police Department (LPD), officers were dispatched to the supermarket shortly after 11:30 a.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired inside or near the entrance of the store. Upon arrival, officers discovered two adult victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel were immediately summoned to the scene and worked to stabilize the victims before transporting them to a nearby hospital. Tragically, both victims succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival at the medical facility. Their identities have not yet been publicly released pending notification of next of kin. However, law enforcement officials have confirmed that the victims appear to have known one another, and initial information suggests that the shooting may not have been a random act. The area surrounding the store was quickly cordoned off, and the business was evacuated as officers secured the scene. Shoppers and employees were visibly shaken, with many describing a terrifying scene of panic and confusion as gunfire rang out. “I heard what sounded like popping noises — maybe three or four shots — and then people started yelling and running,” said one witness, a shopper who had just arrived in the parking lot. “It was chaos. I saw someone lying on the ground and store employees rushing to help.” The Lafayette Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, along with Crime Scene Investigators (CSI), has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Investigators were seen collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage from both inside and outside the store. While no official suspect description has been released, LPD confirmed that they are actively pursuing leads and following up on witness statements. As of now, no arrests have been announced, and it remains unclear whether the shooter is among the deceased or remains at large. LPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Robin Green spoke at a brief press conference held at the scene: “This is a tragic and deeply disturbing incident, and our detectives are working tirelessly to determine exactly what led to this senseless act of violence. We ask for the community’s patience and cooperation as we process a large and very active crime scene.” Authorities are urging anyone who may have been in or around the store at the time of the shooting to contact the Lafayette Police Department at (337) 291-8600 or to submit information anonymously through Lafayette Crime Stoppers at (337) 232-TIPS (8477). The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and police have not confirmed whether the victims were specifically targeted or if others may have been in danger during the incident. Surveillance footage is expected to play a critical role in piecing together a timeline and identifying any suspects or persons of interest. In the wake of the tragedy, the Super 1 Foods store has been closed for the remainder of the day, with company representatives offering condolences to the families of the victims and expressing support for employees affected by the traumatic event. Counseling services are reportedly being arranged for staff members who were present at the time of the shooting. The Lafayette community, already grappling with rising concerns over public safety and gun violence, has responded with an outpouring of shock and grief. Civic leaders, including Mayor-President Josh Guillory, have issued statements calling for unity and a renewed focus on community-based violence prevention. “Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn the loss of two lives taken far too soon,” Guillory stated. “We will not allow violence to define who we are. We must come together — as neighbors, as families, as a city — and support one another during this time.” A candlelight vigil is being planned by local community groups for later this week, with more details expected to be announced as the victims’ families finalize arrangements. As police continue to investigate this devastating act, the residents of Lafayette are left grappling with the question that too often follows such events: Why? And perhaps more importantly: What can be done to ensure it doesn’t happen again? This story is developing, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.