🚨 Road Rage Incident Claims Two Lives

Issue #180

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse

🌤️☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🚨 Road Rage Incident Claims Two Lives

🗝️ Join the Planning Summit in Chester County for the 250th

🐎 Judge Dismisses Animal Cruelty Charges Against Trooper

🏘️ New CEO at Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children

🌼 Exton Trailhead Hosts Wildflower Planting

🏡 Downingtown Real Estate

📆 Upcoming Local Events

🔎 Local Business Finder

Turnpike Tragedy: Road Rage Incident Claims Two Lives

The endless journey ,we all think about it ...don't we.

On May 31, a Montgomery County man was shot near milepost 291.3 in Brecknock Township. The suspected shooter, a man from North Dinwiddie, Virginia, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a tractor-trailer parked in Caernarvon Township. The Pennsylvania State Police are requesting information from anyone who was driving on the turnpike eastbound between milepost 266 and 291.3 on the day of the incident, especially those who witnessed erratic driving or road rage, or who have dashcam footage.

Celebrate America’s 250th: Join the Planning Summit in Chester County



WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County is actively preparing for the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations, beginning with an in-person planning summit on June 7 at Thornbury Farm. Established by the Chester County Commissioners in 2021, the Chester County America250 PA Commission (CC250) aims to connect the county's historical contributions to the nation's broader narrative. The commission's mission focuses on unity, education, and civic engagement, encouraging community participation. Its strategic plan outlines goals to honor the nation's founders, increase cultural heritage tourism, and preserve historical sites.

WCU Offers Transfer and Scholarship Aid to UArts Students



WEST CHESTER, PA — In light of the sudden closure of the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, West Chester University (WCU) has announced a range of support measures for displaced students. The university is offering transfer opportunities and scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students. WCU welcomes UArts students to join over 240 academic programs, including specific majors in music, art and design, and theatre. Undergraduate students with at least 45 credits and a GPA of 3.0 or higher can receive transfer scholarships and transfer up to 90 credits. Graduate students have the opportunity to transfer into the Master of Music Education programs or explore over 120 graduate options, with up to $500 in scholarship funding available for those starting this summer. Detailed information can be found on the WCU website

Judge Dismisses Animal Cruelty Charges Against Chester County Trooper

A wooden gavel.

WEST CHESTER, PA — In Chester County, animal cruelty charges against state trooper Cpl. Michael Perillo have been dismissed. The case stemmed from an incident on December 28, 2021, when Perillo used his patrol car to manage a loose horse on Route 1, which had caused a car accident. The horse was eventually euthanized by another officer to prevent further danger. The Chester County District Attorney, Chris de Barrena-Sarobe, requested the dismissal, explaining that while there was probable cause for the charges, the necessity defense—aimed at preventing greater harm—would likely prevail at trial. The judge granted the dismissal without comment. Perillo, who had been suspended without pay, is now looking to return to his position. The decision has prompted discussions about the need for better training for officers in handling large animals.

Joyce Chester Takes Helm at Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children

WEST CHESTER, PA — Joyce Chester is the new CEO of the Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children, an organization committed to keeping homeless families united during times of crisis. With over 20 years of experience at the Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), Chester brings a wealth of knowledge to her new position. The Friends Association's unique Family Center in Chester County provides housing units designed to maintain family unity, offering personalized case management and community resources. Last year, the center housed thirteen families with an average stay of six months. Chester’s new role also includes overseeing an eviction legal team that mediated between tenants and landlords to prevent evictions for 300 families last year. She recently resigned from the West Chester Area School District School Board after more than a decade of service to focus on her new responsibilities and her family. Tamara Fox, the Chief Development Officer at Friends Association, praised Chester for her community advocacy and ability to inspire action on housing accessibility.

Exton Trailhead Hosts Pollinator-Friendly Wildflower Planting

EXTON, PA — On Saturday, June 8, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., the Friends of the Chester Valley Trail and Parks and Preservation staff will host a wildflower planting event at the Exton Trailhead. Volunteers will work along the retention basin to beautify the park and provide vital food sources for pollinators. The event will begin with an educational session on the benefits of planting native wildflowers and how to plant them effectively for both environmental and aesthetic benefits. Tools will be provided, and participants are encouraged to wear long pants and bring insect repellant, drinking water, and sun protection.
Register here

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