The Philadelphia Police Department’s Homicide Unit is requesting the public’s assistance in locating Francisco Fernandez, the male depicted in the attached photo. Fernandez is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 36-year-old Darnell Brown.
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, at approximately 7:33 p.m., 22nd District officers responded to a report of a shooting at 33rd and York Streets, near a gas station. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, Darnell Brown of the 2400 block of North 31st Street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Brown was transported to Temple University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:51 p.m.
The preliminary investigation determined that both the victim and the offender exited the store moments before the shooting. Surveillance footage shows the two men conversing as they walked away from the location. The suspect then shot the victim once in the chest and fled on foot. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and no arrests have been made at this time.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Francisco Fernandez is urged to contact the Homicide Unit at 215-686-3334, or to submit an anonymous tip by calling 215-686-TIPS.
A $20,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
***The suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.***
Weekend Shows set for November 15-16 at the Oaks Expo CenterPHILADELPHIA, PA —For 16 years, Southampton-based Philadoptables has worked hard to generate community awareness about animal rescue, helped promote homeless animals, and provided support though fundraising for animals in need in the Greater Philadelphia area. Now, they are the recipients of the Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s “Dogs’ Best Friend Award” for 2025.The recipient of the Dog’s Best Friend Award receives a $5,000 donation and will be recognized on Saturday, November 15 during the National Dog Show ceremonies at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, 100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA. The shows run through the weekend of November 15 and 16, and tickets ($10-$20) may bepurchased in advance and at the door during show hours. Visitwww.nds.nationaldogshow.com for tickets and details.Founded in 2009 as a 501(c) nonprofit, Philadoptables offers a variety of in-demand services to at-risk animals in the region. Through donations and volunteers, they provide funding to shelters for help with improvements, equipment and basic care. They offer financial support to low-income pet owners, and keep community cats safe through a spaying and neutering program.Philadoptables’ ultimate goal is to help keep animals safe and homed. Interested community members can of course adopt or foster an animal, but they can also volunteer. Email info@philadoptables.org to learn more about getting involved with Philadoptables and other local animal rescue groups.”There are thousands of animals in need in the Philadelphia area, whether they are in shelters, the streets, or homes, and we depend on our community’s generosity to support our efforts to help them,” said Michelle Helms, founder and president of Philadoptables. “We are incredibly grateful to receive this award, and can’t wait to use the funds to help even more animals in the region.” The Kennel Club of Philadelphia created “The Dogs’ Best Friend Award” to inspire and motivate others to contribute to animal welfare in their community, and protect our region’s dogs whose service and companionship are a critical and enriching part of American life.
Note: This article was originally published on January 20, 2023. Because it was lost when Typepad, the host of our blog, shut down, it is being republished.
(photo credit Adnan Akram)
William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews
PHILADELPHIA, PA (January 20, 2023)(CNBNews)—On Wednesday, January 18, 2023, I headed to the Roberts Proton Therapy Center at 3600 Civic Blvd., Philadelphia, for my last prostate cancer treatment. With me were my wife, Connie; my daughter, Connie Lynn Woods; and my granddaughter, Brianna Woods. My entire family wanted to be there, but the hospital limits the number of support people you can bring with you.
Part of the celebration for people who complete this journey is ringing a ceremonial large bell that hangs in the corner of the waiting room on the bottom floor of that building. I was apprehensive, but what could go wrong? I watched five-year-olds ring that bell during my time at the Center, and they had no problems. Of course, being a Cleary, you always prepare to expect the unexpected, and so I was cautious. After being zapped by the Big Zapper, I got dressed and headed towards that corner for my big moment. My family gathered, and the patients and their family members in the room were looking toward the corner where I was standing. As I grabbed the rope to ring the bell, nothing happened. All eyes were on me. I swung the rope again, but still no sound. I looked towards Kathy, the receptionist, and she was yelling, “Swing it forward, not sideways.” Laughter and applause from the patients and staff broke the tension in the room as I rang the bell loudly and clearly several times.
How happy I am to have completed those 33 treatments. Several times, I wanted to quit because of the side effects I was experiencing. Plus, there were nights when I couldn’t sleep as I realized that I was facing a possible life-ending illness. And, I was still thinking about those hormone pills that make male breasts grow. Will I need a bra? And if so, what size?
Although the treatments are over, some of the radiation’s side effects, such as chills, tiredness, headaches, diarrhea, and nausea, have continued. The doctors said those symptoms may continue for some time or they may stop all of a sudden.
In May 2022, the results of my routine PSA blood test increased by three points from 4 to 7.1. The PSA test is a blood test used primarily to screen for prostate cancer. The test measures the amount of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood. PSA is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate, a small gland that sits below the bladder in males.
In June, another PSA test was taken, which led to an MRI of the prostate in July and a prostate biopsy at the end of August. Both the MRI and the biopsy results confirmed that the tumor was cancerous. It was aggressive but localized to my prostate; in other words, it wasn’t metastatic. That was the good news; the bad news was that my cancer had a Gleason score of 8 and a Grade of 4.
My Proton therapy treatment began on December 6, 2022. Proton therapy, also known as proton beam therapy, is a type of radiation therapy that uses high-energy protons (positively charged atoms) to damage the DNA in cancer cells. This type of cancer treatment is non-invasive, painless, and precise.
There are side effects from the radiation. Besides those mentioned, I also had chills, mouth and throat ulcers, and a rash on the trunk of my body. The GI problems were the worst. Some weeks it lasted for five days in a row.
Making this journey easier at Penn were some of the nicest doctors, nurses, proton therapy technicians, support staff, valet parking attendants, and cashiers I have ever met in my lifetime.
According to information on the center’s website, the Roberts Proton Therapy Center features five treatment rooms and a dedicated research room for proton therapy. It also has an additional five rooms for conventional (photon) radiation therapy. As the largest center in the world for both proton and traditional radiation, they treat more than 100 patients with proton therapy daily. It consists of 75,000 square feet.
Besides prostate cancer, proton therapy is used for Lung cancer, GI tumors, Breast cancer, Brain tumors, and Sarcomas.
The same type of Proton treatment will be opening soon at the Penn-Virtua Hospital in Marlton, NJ.
I had the privilege of meeting some fascinating people, who were also patients, during this period. There was a 73-year-old Russian naturalized citizen. Before his retirement, he was a teacher, and later, he ran a successful business in Delaware. The city of Wilmington claimed eminent domain to build public projects, and he was forced to close his business. Later, his wife fell ill, and he spent his retirement years caring for her. Most recently, his invalid brother moved into his house. Despite his cancer, he continues to take care of both his wife and brother.
There was a 25-year-old construction worker who was the sole provider for his 9-year-old daughter and his mother. He was diagnosed at another hospital with a brain tumor. When they operated on that tumor, the surgeons damaged the right side of his body. As a result, he could barely open his right eye, and he couldn’t move his right arm. The other hospital missed his cancer, and he was at Penn getting chemo treatments. Despite his health problems, the former karate student and his mother believed strongly in Almighty God and also believed in taking one day at a time. He hopes one day to return to construction work, a job he truly loves. His mother showed me pictures of him before his illness. The photo showed a strong, handsome man with a broad smile, holding his daughter, who was perhaps 3 years old at the time.
There was a man in his 50s who was treated for cancer at another Philadelphia hospital in 2017. They told him that his cancer was cured. However, he kept telling his doctor that he didn’t feel well, and he was spending most of his day in bed because of the blasé feelings he was experiencing. After several years, he wasn’t feeling any better. He came to Penn for a second opinion, and they discovered he had bone cancer along with lung cancer.
There was a 50-year-old woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer. We were both waiting for a CAT scan, and we were the only two people in the room. We both looked up from our phones, and I smiled, saying hello. When I asked her what she was being treated for, she said breast cancer. She shared her concerns about her young children, as she was their sole provider. Her mother recently moved in with her to take care of her and the kids. “She is elderly, I am afraid she is taking on too much,” the young woman said. “I don’t know what will happen to my kids if cancer kills me.” I didn’t know what to say. Her situation was much more serious than mine. I listened and tried to offer her words of comfort.
This was my second experience with cancer. My first was in 2012-2013. At that time, the diagnosis was kidney cancer. However, after cutting me open, a biopsy of the tumor was performed, and it was determined that it was benign.
For now, I am thrilled to be done with the radiation. I asked the doctor how I would know if the tumor is gone. “Let us worry about that; you go about living your life. Have a cheesesteak if you want. We will monitor your PSA test every three months, and that will tell us if we were successful.”
The American Cancer Society says …For most men with prostate cancer, treatment can remove or destroy the cancer. Completing treatment can be both stressful and exciting. You may be relieved to finish treatment, but find it hard not to worry about cancer growing or coming back. This is very common if you’ve had cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/after-treatment/follow-up.html
As you age in life, you can’t help but think every so often about death and how you are going to die. Based on my two experiences with cancer up until now, I don’t believe that disease will be my downfall. Nope, I picture myself tripping over a stone as I walk down the railroad tracks with my dog Peyton, hitting my head, and lying unconscious as a train rolls over my body. Perhaps that is a little extreme, but it has to be something that will earn me a big headline in all the newspapers and television stations. I could go skydiving, and the parachute doesn’t open. Or, I could live to be 100 years old and die in my rocking chair.
Looking back over my life, I should have been gone long ago. This leads me to believe that I still haven’t fulfilled the reason why God put me on this earth 78 years ago. For now, I am going to savor this moment and continue to live my life to the fullest.
The Philadelphia Police Department seeks the public’s assistance in locating missing juvenile Korinthia Winston. Korinthia was last seen September 24, 2020, at 8:30am, on the 43xx block of Devereaux Street. Korinthia frequents the area of the 6100 block of Edmund Street.
Korinthia is 12 years-of-age, 5’8″, 126 lbs., brown braided hair, brown eyes and was last seen wearing black pants and a red shir.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Korinthia Winston is asked to please contact the Northeast Detective Division at 215-686-3153.
Philadelphia, PA – South Philadelphia’s largest and oldest Halloween tradition is back! Nice Things Handmade, in partnership with the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District, announces the return of East Passyunk Fall Fest on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. This all-ages, all-day celebration will close East Passyunk Avenue to traffic from Morris to Dickinson Streets, centering around the iconic Singing Fountain, with additional festivities extending up to Mifflin Triangle, The Gateway, and Broad Street. Celebrate all things autumn, with a hint of spooky, as more than 110+ artists, makers, vintage vendors, Avenue businesses and community groups line the Avenue alongside a South Philly-themed costume contest, trick-or-treating for kids, seasonal food and drinks, live music, pumpkin carving, a dog costume contest, and make-and-take craft stations. Don’t miss the special Halloween-inspired pop-up by the Drunken Knit Wits and South Philly Yarn, bringing extra handmade magic to the day. The festival is no charge to attend and rain or shine, with food, drinks, shopping, and select activities pay-as-you-go. Fido-friendly and full of neighborhood spirit—this South Philly tradition is one you won’t want to miss. For more info, follow @nicethingshandmade and @eastpassyunk on social media, plus visit visiteastpassyunk.com/events/fall-fest.
Philadelphia, PA – Philadelphia Zoo’s nature-inspired holiday light show, LumiNature presented by PNC, is back and brighter than ever, reaching new heights with the grand opening of the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, a 110 ft. tall observation wheel with breathtaking scenes of the more than a million twinkling lights that will fill the Zoo and jaw-dropping sights of the city skyline. New for this year, and joining the more than a dozen whimsical wildlife scenes come to light, are Santa’s Lodge, a cozy indoor space with the chance to say hello to the big man himself, and Jambi’s Solstice Saloon, the perfect spot to chill along the beaming river. Favorite returning illuminated displays include the high-energy Penguin Prismatic show with a 40 ft. tall penguin shining with 40,000 lights and the famous 25 ft. tall pink flamingo tree, made entirely out of 1,500 lawn ornament flamingos. Plus, bring your old Zoo Key, or purchase a new one at the Zoo’s gift shops, to turn on the magic in select areas. LumiNature opens Thursday, November 20 and is open most nights through Saturday, January 3 from 5:00-9:00pm. Tickets are available on the Zoo’s website with prices varying by visit; best prices are available the earlier tickets are purchased. The Zoo’s ticket calendar will show all operating nights.
“Winter at the Zoo is different and still a wonderful time to visit,” said Philadelphia Zoo President & CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman. “This light show is designed for guests of all ages to connect with animals, each other, and the beauty of our planet during the holiday season. We’re really excited to have the addition of the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, which will stay at the Zoo through the 250th celebrations in 2026.”
“Philadelphia Zoo is a place where transformative memories are made when families and friends connect with wildlife,” said PNC Philadelphia Regional President Joe Meterchick. “LumiNature has become a true Philadelphia tradition and one of the most spectacular winter light shows in our area. We especially look forward to seeing the newest view from more than 100 ft. up in the air this holiday season.”
On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at approximately 3:51 a.m., officers from the 15th District responded to the 4700 block of Shelmire Avenue for a report of a disturbance involving a person with a gun. Upon arrival, officers encountered a 27-year-old male behind a locked security gate enclosing the front porch. After gaining entry, officers discovered an unresponsive man inside the residence with no visible signs of injury. The male informed officers that he had fatally assaulted his uncle, who was later identified as 56-year-old Antonio Rodriguez, a member of the Philadelphia Fire Department. Rodriguez was pronounced dead at 4:13 a.m.
The 27-year-old male was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Homicide Unit for further investigation. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Family Activities, Local Vendors, Live Music, Food Trucks, and a Mac and Cheese Crawl Take Over Main Street for One Day Only
Philadelphia, PA – Manayunk Development Corporation is thrilled to announce another new block buster event this fall. Following the runaway success of Manayunk Restaurant Week and Stroll After Hours, MDC will debut Manayunk Fall Fest and Mac N Cheese Crawl on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00am to 4:00pm, along historic Main Street. This one day celebration takes place during one of the best times of year to visit Manayunk, as the leaves are changing overhead, the towpath and trails never looked prettier, decorations are popping up at local businesses and seasonal flavors take over food and drink menus
Festival goers can expect family-friendly activities, 10+ food trucks, 60+ local vendors and artists, seasonal fare, autumn sips, live outdoor music, 3 stages, and a tasty crawl to pick the best Mac N Cheese in Manayunk. Participating restaurants so far include Bar Jawn, Bayou Bar & Grill, Blondie, Cactus Cantina, Canalside Manayunk / Chloe’s Corner, Chabaa Thai Bistro, Cresson Inn, JD McGillicuddys, Lucky’s Last Chance, Manayunk Brewery & Restaurant, Mia Ragazza, PHS Pop Up Garden Manayunk, Ryan’s Pub, Somo Manayunk, Taqueria Amor, The Couch Tomato, The Goat’s Beard and Winnie’s Manayunk. Manayunk Fall Festival is no charge and open to the public, with food and drink pay-as-you-go. Manayunk Mac N Cheese Crawl is $20 per person and tickets are on sale through manayunk.com/mnyk-events/manayunk-fall-fest/
“Manayunk Fall Fest and Mac N Cheese Crawl is the perfect way to celebrate fall in the city,” said Manayunk Development Corporation Branding & Digital Marketing Manager Janine Gasarowski. “We’re bringing together the best of Manayunk – our small businesses, culinary talent, and vibrant community – all in one place for a fun and festive day on Main Street.”
Fall Fest is designed for all ages, whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, indulge in fall-inspired treats, or simply enjoy a crisp October afternoon in Manayunk’s historic district. Many shops and restaurants will offer special deals and activities for the day.
Main Street will be transformed into a festive fall destination, filled with artisan vendors, food trucks, live music, and interactive fun for all ages. Shoppers can browse local goods, enjoy bites from neighborhood eateries, and take part in curated seasonal experiences only available during Fall Fest. The highlight of the event is the debut of the Mac and Cheese Crawl, a ticketed tasting tour showcasing creative takes on the classic comfort food by participating restaurants throughout the district.
Manayunk Fall Fest is no charge to attend. Mac N Cheese Crawl is $20 tickets are on pace to sell out for the debut year.
This full day of celebration, community, and pride — powered by local McDonald’s Owner/Operators and featuring dozens of performers, food trucks, and local partners!
Philadelphia, PA – Philly Pride 365 proudly presents OURfest: National Coming OUT Day Parade & Festival, returning Saturday, October 12, 2025, for a full day of LGBTQIA+ visibility, celebration, and community connection throughout Center City Philadelphia. This year’s festival is made possible through the generous support of local McDonald’s Owner/Operators, who join an incredible coalition of community partners, sponsors, and neighborhood venues in uplifting Philadelphia’s vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. This year’s theme, “Out Loud, Out Front: Power, Protection & Pride,” is a clarion call for Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, and Queer communities to rise together in the face of rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, cultural attacks and political urgency. OURfest 2025 boldly centers queer people living and loving at the intersections, where joy becomes protest, and community becomes protection. This year’s festival will include family-friendly and community-led outdoor festival that runs from 12th to 13th streets, Locust to Spruce, and beyond, with main stage, youth and healing stages, queer art, drag and music showcases, kids and family programming, food trucks, vendors, community organizations, beer and cocktail gardens, and much more. Additionally, look for a new line-up of events leading up to the big festival, including WELL YES Marketplace on October 10th and Crankshaft on October 11th. For more information on volunteering, participating, or sponsoring the festival, please visit our website, www.phillypride365.org/about-ourfest or email Pride365@PhillyPride365.org.
“OURfest is a celebration of self, solidarity, and showing up — together,” said Tyrell Brown, Founder and Executive Director of Philly Pride 365. “We’re proud to stand alongside our local McDonald’s Owner/Operators and so many others who invest in our communities year-round. Philly Pride 365 is about belonging, and OURfest is where that belonging comes to life.”
The Philadelphia Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a missing person, Kada Scott. The 23-year-old female was last seen on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 9:45 p.m., on the 8300 block of Rodney Street.Her height is 5”6″, weighs 120 lbs., thin build, brown eyes and black hair.If you have any information regarding Kada’s whereabouts, please contact Northwest Detectives at 215-686-3353.For additional information and updates, visit https://www.phillypolice.com/news-blotter/missing-person-kada-scott-from-the-14th-district/
