Mount Vernon successfully defended against record flooding due to a floodwall, while nearby towns like Sumas faced severe damage, highlighting disparities in recovery efforts and infrastructure resilience after recent atmospheric river events in western Washington.
Ariela Mejia-Polanco, a social media influencer and nightlife hostess, was fatally shot while driving in Mount Vernon, Westchester County. Authorities are investigating her death, which has shocked her community and friends, including rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine, who mourned her loss. The case is under review as police work to identify the responsible party.
A woman named Ariela Mejia-Polanco was found dead from gunshot wounds in her car on the Cross County Parkway in Mount Vernon, NY. Police believe she was targeted and not a random victim, and the investigation is ongoing.
A 14-year-old Mount Vernon girl, who went missing for over three weeks, was found at the home of a convicted sex offender in South Haven, Michigan. The suspect, Keith Freerksen, faces multiple criminal charges, including human trafficking of a minor and criminal sexual conduct. He allegedly used social media to groom the girl before driving to Washington state to pick her up. The girl's parents expressed gratitude to investigators, and the police received a crucial tip about a rideshare order that led to the suspect's identification and the girl's rescue. Freerksen was previously convicted on child pornography charges in Florida.
A tugboat and barge broke loose in the Alabama River near Mount Vernon, with the tug sinking. There were people on board at the time and search and rescue crews are currently on the scene.