Lansing Approves Affordable Housing Project in Old Town

The Lansing City Council has approved plans for a new affordable housing development in Old Town. During Monday night’s meeting, councilmembers unanimously passed a brownfield plan for the project located in the 1400 block of Turner Street. They also authorized the sale of Parking Lot 57 to make way for the new construction.

Okemos High School Evacuated After Threat Deemed Not Credible

Students and staff at Okemos High School were forced to evacuate Monday morning after a threat was received. Meridian Township Police later determined the threat was not credible. Students were initially directed to the school stadium before being allowed back inside to retrieve their belongings. Classes were dismissed at the usual time and all after-school activities continued as scheduled.

Leaders React to Grand Blanc Church Shooting

Michigan leaders are reacting to Sunday’s deadly attack at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township, where at least five people—including the suspect—were killed and eight others were injured in a shooting followed by a fire.

“We cannot keep living our lives like this,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer said during a press conference Monday in Genesee County.

U.S. Senator Gary Peters echoed her remarks on the Senate floor, stating, “We cannot allow these patterns of violence to continue. We cannot simply accept these attacks like it’s another normal day.”

In a related incident, Grand Blanc Township Police on Monday arrested a 21-year-old man accused of attempting to drive through a barricade near the same church. Investigators are determining whether the act is connected to Sunday’s attack.

Michigan Legislature Faces Budget Deadline

State lawmakers have until midnight tonight to pass a final budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The Senate on Monday approved a budget transparency resolution requiring legislators to disclose details about requested earmarks before they are added to the final plan. The House passed a similar measure earlier this year.

DeWitt Athletic Director Retires After 26 Years

DeWitt High School Athletic Director Mike Brya has announced his retirement after 26 years with the district. Brya, a 1995 DeWitt graduate, will officially step down in December.

South Lansing Cleanup Event Scheduled for Wednesday

A major community cleanup is set to take place in Lansing this week. The South Lansing Business Association is hosting its fall Team Up to Clean Up event Wednesday afternoon. Volunteers will work to clean a half-square-mile area covering I-96, Cedar Street, Jolly Road and Pennsylvania Avenue.

Teams from local businesses, churches, service clubs and schools are expected to participate. The event begins at 3 p.m. with a meetup at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church.

Authorities are releasing new details following a deadly shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township that left at least five people dead, including the suspect, and eight others injured.

“We're working tirelessly, we're working all night on this particular incident,” said Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye during a Sunday news conference.

The suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Jacob Sanford of Burton, a Marine and Iraq War veteran. FBI Detroit Acting Special Agent in Charge Ruben Coleman condemned the attack.

“This act of violence has no place in our state or anywhere else in our country,” Coleman said. “The FBI is committed to continue finding out the facts, circumstances, and motives behind this tragedy. I can confirm at this time that the FBI is now leading the investigation and is investigating this as an act of targeted violence.”

In response, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered flags across Michigan to be lowered to half-staff through Friday. In a statement, she said her heart is “breaking for the Grand Blanc community” and added that “violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.”

Other Mid-Michigan Weekend Incidents

Closer to home, a 17-year-old is recovering after being shot in the hip early Saturday morning. Lansing Police were dispatched to the area of Miller and Grovenburg around 9:45 a.m. but found no victim. A local hospital later notified officers that the teen had arrived with a gunshot wound. No arrests have been made, and the investigation continues.

East Lansing Police have also released body camera footage from an MSU Welcome Week arrest showing officers pepper-spraying two men involved in a fight outside a restaurant. A third person, who claimed he was attempting to break up the altercation, was also sprayed. The two men arrested for fighting are scheduled for pre-trial hearings next month.

In Ingham County, a 61-year-old Williamston man was killed in a motorcycle crash on I-96 westbound near Okemos Road. Sheriff’s officials say he lost control of the bike and veered into a ditch.

Local Government and Traffic Updates

Lansing commuters should be aware of lane shifts on Waverly Road between Holmes and Sandhurst beginning today for road maintenance. The work is expected to wrap up by the end of the day Friday.

Meanwhile, the Lansing City Council is set to consider a brownfield redevelopment plan tonight for new housing in the 1400 block of Turner Street in Old Town. The proposal also includes the sale of parking lot 57 to facilitate the project. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

LANSING – Michigan will avoid a state government shutdown after Governor Gretchen Whitmer, House Speaker Matt Hall, and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks announced a budget agreement late Wednesday. Lawmakers said the spending plan will be passed before the October 1 deadline.

Whitmer, in a video statement on social media, said the plan will “lower costs, cut taxes for seniors and working families, create jobs, fund schools, fix roads and keep people safe.” The agreement includes $1.5 billion for road funding, which will grow to $1.8 billion over five years, along with revenue from a new marijuana tax.

Meanwhile, Michigan is facing a federal lawsuit from the Trump administration. The suit targets the state and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for refusing to provide complete voter registration data, which federal officials argue violates the law. Benson called the lawsuit a “power grab,” noting that five other states face similar challenges.

In Lansing, 39-year-old Brian Blalock has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and assault with intent to murder. Prosecutors say he killed 36-year-old Christopher Stipanuk in April 2024 in downtown Lansing, just months after shooting another man at a hotel near Cedar Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. The second victim survived.

Elsewhere, Michigan State Police are investigating the deaths of two people in a Jackson house fire as suspicious. The victims have been identified as 46-year-old Michael McGehe and 44-year-old Sherry Porter. The fire broke out last week on Maple Lane Road.

A new state study also highlights the impact of harm reduction services in Michigan. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, these programs help cut hospitalizations and emergency visits by providing tools such as naloxone, which reverses opioid overdoses. They also work to slow the spread of HIV and hepatitis C. Currently, 37 agencies operate more than 100 harm reduction sites statewide.

A Lansing man has been sentenced to 10 to 15 years in prison for an accidental shooting that claimed the life of his best friend.

Twenty-three-year-old Trayveon Green received the punishment in connection with the April 2024 death of 22-year-old Aaron Bey-Johnson. Prosecutors said the two were firing rounds on Turner Street on Lansing’s north side when the shooting occurred. Green pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm from a vehicle, while two additional weapons charges were dismissed.

Local Crashes Reported

• Lansing Accident: No serious injuries were reported after a car crashed into a fenced-off construction site and overturned near Saginaw and Cedar around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. Police said they rescued a man trapped inside, while a woman escaped safely.

• Jackson County Crash: Four people were taken to the hospital—two with critical injuries—after a two-vehicle crash near Meridian and Weatherby roads in Liberty Township on Wednesday morning. Six people, including three juveniles, were involved.

Traffic Alerts for Lansing

Commuters should expect closures this weekend:

• Grand River Avenue and Coolidge Road will be shut down Saturday and Sunday for road repairs.

• Ionia Street and Capitol Avenue will see lane closures Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon for well monitoring work.

Fertility Fraud Legislation Reintroduced

A bill package in the Michigan House has been reintroduced to strengthen penalties for fertility fraud. State Rep. John Roth (R-Traverse City) said fertility fraud occurs when doctors inseminate patients with their own sperm without consent or when sperm donors lie about genetic health issues. The proposed legislation would make fertility fraud a crime and establish both civil and criminal penalties.

Chronic Wasting Disease Found in Genesee County

A lab at Michigan State University has confirmed a case of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a wild deer in Genesee County. The Department of Natural Resources reported that a 2.5-year-old doe tested positive in Gaines Township after approaching a conservation officer. The deer had been reported as skinny and excessively drinking.

Michigan Governments Eligible for Opioid Settlement Funds

The Michigan Attorney General’s office is urging nearly 280 local governments to apply for a share of a $720 million national opioid settlement. Roughly $24.5 million is set aside for municipalities in Michigan, including Lansing and the Tri-County area. Participation forms are due by October 8.

Community Divided Over Proposed Howell Township Data Center
A packed public hearing in Howell Township Monday night drew strong opinions on a proposed data center that, if approved, would be the largest in Michigan. Supporters argued the project could deliver a major economic boost to the region. Opponents, however, voiced concerns about transparency and environmental impacts. One resident urged officials to enact a moratorium before making any decisions, saying more study is needed on the long-term effects.

East Lansing Council Approves Police Oversight Document Release
In East Lansing, city council members voted 4-1 to release a document clarifying proposed ordinance changes to the Independent Police Oversight Commission. The changes include redacting officer information from reports. Council Member Eric Altmann cast the lone dissenting vote, citing legal concerns and advice from labor counsel against releasing the document.

The council also unanimously approved a three-year contract with City Manager Robert Belleman. The agreement sets his salary at $190,000—an increase of $354 from his current pay.

Lansing Man Convicted in Double Murder
An Ingham County jury convicted Lansing resident Dennis Whaley of second-degree murder for the April 2024 shooting deaths of his girlfriend, Christine Cambric, and her cousin, Jason McKenzie, at a home on Woodrow Avenue. Prosecutors said Whaley carried out threats he made days earlier, while Whaley claimed the shootings were accidental.

Grand Ledge Police Warn of Invoice Scam
Grand Ledge Police are warning residents about fraudulent invoices falsely issued under the name of the city’s planning commission. The documents, which use the city logo and official-looking details, are not legitimate. Authorities advise residents not to make payments, to verify invoices with the city, and to report suspicious documents to police.

Eaton County Teacher Honored by Michigan Lottery
Eaton Rapids High School instructor Erik Smith has been awarded the Michigan Lottery’s Weekly Excellence in Education Award. The honor comes with a $2,000 cash prize recognizing Smith’s dedication to students and education.

LANSING, Mich. — The Lansing City Council held a public hearing Monday night on a proposed brownfield plan to bring new housing to Old Town on Turner Street. The project also involves the sale of parking lot 57 to accommodate the development.

One nearby resident told councilmembers the investment is long overdue. “I bought the house there about four years ago and ever since it’s been a blighted property,” the resident said, describing the area as overrun with “unexpected residents from humans to raccoons to termites.”

Meanwhile, the Lansing Charter Commission is inviting the public to informational sessions this week about potential revisions to the city charter. Proposed changes include expanding the size of City Council and measures aimed at boosting transparency. Meetings are scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Alfreda Schmidt Community Center and 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Letts Community Center.

In court, murder suspect Dennis Whaley took the stand in his own defense Monday, claiming the April 2024 shootings of his girlfriend, Christine Cambric, and her cousin, Jason McKenzie, were accidental. Prosecutors argue Whaley followed through on threats he had made in messages days before the killings.

In a separate case, 30-year-old Montez Hopkins was arraigned Monday on multiple felony charges tied to the July 2025 shooting death of 36-year-old DeAndre Campbell near Capital Region International Airport.

Lansing police also continue to investigate two weekend shootings. A 22-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound to the ear Saturday night on Elizabeth Street but is expected to recover. Another man was hospitalized in stable condition Sunday after being shot on South Pennsylvania Avenue. No arrests have been made in either case.

Outside Lansing, Howell Township officials are set for a heated Planning Commission meeting tonight over what could become Michigan’s largest data center. The nearly 1,000-acre project, planned for farmland owned by Van Gilder Farms, is backed by the family as an economic driver but has drawn opposition over environmental concerns and transparency issues.

Elsewhere in Michigan, severe weather brought reports of a possible tornado over Torch Lake in Antrim County Monday night. The National Weather Service has not yet confirmed the touchdown.

LANSING – Residents will have a chance to weigh in on a proposed Old Town development project at tonight’s Lansing City Council meeting. The council will hold a 7 p.m. public hearing on the possible sale of parking lot 57 in the 1400 block of Turner Street, along with a brownfield plan tied to the project. Developers are looking to build dozens of affordable housing units at the Turner North site.

Meanwhile, Lansing commuters are facing several traffic disruptions.

• Cavanaugh Road between Watson and Burchfield remains closed through Friday for an emergency sewer repair, with traffic restricted from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to Cedar Street.

• Starting Wednesday, lane closures will be in place on Michigan Avenue from Pennsylvania to Holmes as part of phase six of the Michigan Avenue Rehabilitation Project, which runs through mid-October. Access to U of M Health Sparrow’s emergency services will remain open.

• In Old Town, the fork at Cesar Chavez, Grand River, and Oakland Avenue is shut down for road repair through the end of today.

Old Town also saw a ribbon cutting today as Grand River Head Start, Impression 5 Science Center, and PNC Bank unveiled a new outdoor classroom and play space for local preschoolers, supported by a PNC Foundation grant.

Gas prices are on the rise. According to AAA Michigan, the Lansing-area average hit $3.14 per gallon on Sunday—up more than 25 cents from last week. The statewide average is now $3.16, an increase of about 12 cents.

The Barry-Eaton District Health Department is warning SNAP beneficiaries about a fraudulent mobile app. The fake app, listed in stores as EBT Edge Food Stamps (with “edge” in lowercase), charges fees for download and use. Officials stress the official app is titled EBT Edge (in all caps) and is free.

On the business front, hundreds of Michigan companies may feel the impact of a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visas for skilled foreign workers, introduced by President Trump. More than 1,300 state employers—including GM, Ford, Michigan State University, and the University of Michigan—applied for H-1Bs this year.

And for those in the market for a luxury home, former MSU head football coach Mel Tucker’s East Lansing residence is now up for sale. The Glen Court property spans more than 12,500 square feet, sits on nearly an acre and a half, and carries a $2.7 million price tag.

Eaton County Approves Service Cuts as Michigan Faces Series of Local Incidents

Eaton County commissioners have approved nearly $8.5 million in service cuts and staff reductions as part of the county’s newly adopted $40.5 million fiscal year budget.

The spending plan eliminates the Sheriff’s Road Patrol in Delta Township and other non-contracted areas, while also slashing funding for MSU Extension, the Tri-County Community Mental Health program, and the Barry-Eaton District Health Department.

East Lansing Power Outage Disrupts School Day

In East Lansing, a Thursday morning power outage left hundreds without electricity after a contractor struck a utility pole, according to the Lansing Board of Water & Light.

The outage prompted the early dismissal of students at MacDonald Middle School, though power was restored later in the afternoon.

Separately, the East Lansing Downtown Development Authority approved the sale of its Evergreen Avenue properties to Landmark Properties and Consulting, with details of the agreement still being finalized.

Jackson County Domestic Incident and Judicial Misconduct Allegations

In Jackson County, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance involving a firearm on Baseline Road late Wednesday morning. Authorities say a 911 caller reported being in a fight with his 23-year-old son when a gun discharged. The caller suffered injuries during the altercation but was not struck by gunfire. A man was later found inside the home with a gunshot wound.

Also in Jackson County, Fourth Circuit Judge Thomas Wilson, who oversaw the Governor Whitmer kidnapping trial, is facing misconduct allegations. Wilson is accused of sexual harassment and case interference, according to filings with the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission. His attorney has not yet commented.

Politics, Tributes, and Crime Updates

The Michigan gubernatorial race gained a new contender as Republican Ralph Rebandt announced his candidacy. Rebandt, who previously ran in 2022 but lost the GOP primary to Tudor Dixon, said he plans to build “the country’s strongest economy” and cut regulatory burdens.

At the state Capitol, flags are flying at half-staff to honor former Michigan State Senator Bruce Patterson, who died this week at age 78. Patterson, a Republican, represented parts of Wayne County in the early 2000s.

Meanwhile, police in Ann Arbor arrested 33-year-old Lagerien Thomas in connection with a stabbing near the University of Michigan campus late Thursday night. Thomas was taken into custody about five hours after the incident, which occurred near Catherine Street and Zina Pitcher Place. No details about the victim have been released.

LANSING, Mich. – A series of major developments unfolded across Michigan this week, from court rulings in Lansing to political visits and education updates.

An Ingham County judge has ordered a homeless encampment near Dietrich Park in Lansing to be cleared before winter. Judge Rosemarie Aquilina urged residents to work with the city and local agencies to find housing, while human relations and community service groups pledged to help those displaced.

Meanwhile, tragedy struck in Clinton County on Wednesday when a woman from Portland was killed in a chain-reaction crash involving her vehicle and three semis on I-96 northeast of Grand Ledge. Her name has not yet been released.

On the political front, Vice President J.D. Vance stopped in Howell at the Hatch stamping facility. He criticized crime rates in Detroit, offering federal assistance if requested. “Gretchen, we are happy to send the National Guard to Detroit, Michigan. All you got to do is ask,” Vance said.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order aimed at improving access to COVID-19 vaccines. The order directs the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure the vaccine is covered under health insurance plans and to eliminate barriers to access, as federal policy changes remain under discussion.

Education leaders are also celebrating progress. The Michigan Department of Education reported statewide school attendance rates have risen steadily from 88.8% in 2021-22 to 91.3% in 2024-25. Local school districts boosted attendance through family conferences, mental health support, and even door-to-door outreach.

In higher education, Wayne State University President Kimberly Espy announced her resignation after facing criticism over her handling of campus protests related to the Gaza conflict.

Closer to home, the city of Lansing unveiled new plaques at Durant Park on Capitol Avenue. The displays outline the park’s history and honor GM founder William Durant. General Motors also marked its 117th anniversary earlier this week.

LANSING, MI – Authorities are investigating an early morning structure fire that broke out just before 2 a.m. Tuesday at a home on M-106 between Stephen Road and Krummery Lane, near the Ingham-Jackson County line. No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Later in Lansing, hundreds of people gathered at the state Capitol to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot last week at Utah Valley University. Among the speakers was Alex Bitzan, president of Michigan State University’s chapter of Kirk’s group, Turning Point USA. Bitzan told attendees, “This today is a turning point for our nation and we are all called to play a part in the future of our great country.”

Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance is set to visit mid-Michigan this week. On Wednesday, he will tour a precision metal stamping facility in Howell and discuss President Trump’s tax cuts. The stop marks Vance’s first trip to Michigan since he visited Bay City in March.

In Mason, the Capital Area District Library’s Ash Street branch sustained damage Monday after a car crashed into its wheelchair-accessible entrance and ramp. The library said the driver appeared to be uninjured, and the branch is reopening today for regular hours.

The County Road Association of Michigan is also expected to release its annual investment plan this afternoon. The report will outline funding requirements to restore county road systems across all 83 Michigan counties.

On the legal front, an appeals court ruled that former Michigan State University economics professor Lisa Cook can remain on the Federal Reserve Board while President Trump pursues efforts to remove her, citing mortgage fraud allegations. The case may head to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Finally, restoration work continues at the Michigan State Capitol. Following last year’s successful renovation of the Capitol Dinner Dome, crews are now repairing the building’s historic glass floor, which was first installed in 1878. Of the original 976 tiles, about 700 had been replaced, likely after a 1931 fire. Progress on the project can be viewed both in person and online.

LANSING, Mich. – Lansing police are investigating another shooting after officers found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest near Crego Park late Sunday. The victim was located in the area of Aurelius and Malcolm X streets and is currently in critical but stable condition. No arrests have been made.

Commuters in Eaton County should plan for delays this week. Single-lane closures are in effect on westbound I-96 between Creyts and Lansing roads through Friday due to ongoing construction.

Meanwhile, drivers are seeing some relief at the pump. AAA Michigan reports the Lansing-area average dropped to $2.89 per gallon as of Sunday, down 16 cents from last week. The statewide average stands at $3.05, a decrease of 11 cents.

At the state Capitol, Michigan Republicans will gather today to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed last week. The rally is scheduled for 4 p.m. on the Capitol steps. In response to heightened safety concerns following Kirk’s death, the Lansing NAACP chapter has canceled a city council forum and mayoral debate originally scheduled for Tuesday at Union Missionary Baptist Church. Organizers cited recent political violence and bomb threats at historically Black colleges and universities as reasons for postponement.

In legislative news, Michigan lawmakers have introduced a “click to cancel” package of bills aimed at strengthening consumer protections. The measures would require companies to provide online cancellation options for subscriptions purchased online, as well as advance notice before automatic renewals. The package includes two bills in the House and two in the Senate—all four must pass to become law.

On the national front, the Trump administration is renewing its push to remove former MSU economics professor Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, citing mortgage fraud allegations. Cook was reinstated last week after a judge ruled her removal illegal.

And over the weekend, dozens turned out for the Capital City Dragon Boat Races hosted by the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing. The event celebrated healing, fitness, and the legacy of a founding director who lost her battle with breast cancer.

LANSING, MI – Police are investigating a string of violent incidents across mid-Michigan, alongside mounting political controversy following the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.

Lansing Shooting Injures 25-Year-Old

A 25-year-old man was shot twice late Thursday night on the 100 block of Vicki Court on Lansing’s south side. The incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. between Holmes and Cavanaugh. Authorities say the victim’s injuries are not life-threatening, and no arrests have been made.

Woman Charged in Separate Shooting

Ingham County prosecutors have charged 41-year-old Ashley McKinstry with shooting a 44-year-old man in the face Tuesday night in Lansing Township. The incident happened on Wood Street near Sam’s Way just before 9:30 p.m. Police say the man underwent emergency surgery, while McKinstry was arrested with two firearms in her possession. Investigators noted the two knew each other. A preliminary examination is scheduled for September 20.

Body of Missing Eaton County Woman Found

Authorities confirmed a tragic ending to the search for Allie Drew-Tulpo, who had been missing for more than a week. The Eaton County Sheriff’s Office said her body was discovered Thursday near Apple Tree Lane and Willow Highway. While the investigation remains ongoing, foul play is not suspected.

I-96 Bridge Repairs Continue

Drivers should expect lane closures today on I-96 in both directions between Lansing and Crites Roads from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ramps from westbound I-96 to northbound Lansing Road and from northbound Lansing Road to eastbound I-96 will also be closed during repairs.

Judge Facing Misconduct Allegations

The Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission has filed a formal complaint against Jackson County Circuit Judge Thomas Wilson, alleging sexual harassment, alcohol abuse, conflicts of interest, and abuse of judicial power. Wilson’s attorney says his client intends to clear his name.

Fallout from Charlie Kirk’s Death

Political tensions are rising after the shooting death of conservative pundit Charlie Kirk in Utah. Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist reported a bomb threat at his home Thursday, which was later cleared. Gilchrist condemned political violence in any form.

Meanwhile, controversy has erupted over social media reactions to Kirk’s death. Republicans in Oakland County are calling for 45th District Judge Jaimie Powell Horowitz to resign after she shared a 2023 video of Kirk with the caption, “talk about dying for your beliefs,” while defending gun rights.

Additionally, Vassar Public Schools in Tuscola County placed a teacher on administrative leave over online comments about Kirk, citing community concerns.

(LANSING, MI) - Michigan leaders are reacting to the shooting death of conservative commentator and activist Charlie Kirk.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement condemning political violence of any kind, while State Republican Party Chair Jim Runstead said he was devastated by the news. Senate GOP Leader Eric Nesbitt went further, calling the killing an act of terrorism.

Flags across Michigan were lowered to half-staff immediately after Kirk’s death, in accordance with President Donald Trump’s order. They will be returned to full-staff on Sunday. Coincidentally, flags were already scheduled to be lowered today to honor victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

In Lansing, a series of 9/11 remembrance ceremonies are taking place. Events began this morning at Wentworth Park, followed by another at the State Capitol just before 10:30 a.m. At noon, the Lansing Veterans Council will hold a wreath-laying ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery.

Meanwhile, new legislation in the state House and Senate could rename a stretch of Grand River Avenue in East Lansing as Magic Johnson Way. The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Kathy Schmaltz and Sen. Michael Webber, would honor the Everett High School and Michigan State basketball legend by designating the section of roadway between Harrison and Hagedorn with his name.

Gov. Whitmer also wrapped up her recent international investment mission to Singapore, Japan, and Germany. Her office reported that the trip secured 800 new jobs, retained another 175, and brought $200 million in investments to Michigan.

Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning residents of a rise in government imposter scams. Fraudsters posing as officials are using fake calls, emails, and text messages to trick people into providing money or personal information. Nessel urged residents not to click suspicious links or attachments and to report, block, and delete fraudulent messages.

In federal court news, Chinese national Chengxuan Han was sentenced to three months in prison after pleading guilty to smuggling biological material from a University of Michigan laboratory. Han was caught last June during a Customs and Border Patrol inspection at Detroit Metro Airport after arriving on a J-1 visa.

(LANSING, MI) — Community tensions surfaced at the East Lansing City Council meeting as residents criticized a proposed contract with the city’s independent police oversight commission. Concerns stem from recent complaints that officers used excessive force, including pepper spray, against college-aged Black men during Michigan State University’s welcome week.

Several citizens spoke against the contract, demanding more transparency. One resident expressed frustration over closed-door deliberations, urging elected officials to engage openly with the public.

City Council member Mark Meadows assured attendees that the process is still in its early stages.
“We’ve only introduced it at this point in time. We have not had our discussion. We’ve not had any votes with regard to it,” Meadows said. “There’ll be plenty of public discussion and comment.”

In Lansing Township, police arrested a 41-year-old woman in connection with a shooting on Wood Street late Tuesday night. The victim, a 44-year-old man, underwent emergency surgery and is expected to recover. Investigators believe the two knew each other, and authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Meanwhile, prosecutors charged 26-year-old Kristen Wilcox after a stabbing at the Applebee’s restaurant on Cedar Street in Lansing Sunday afternoon. She faces one count of assault with intent to murder. The victim remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

In Eaton County, state police confirmed a fatal crash Tuesday morning in Walton Township. A man from Olivet died when the moped he was riding was struck by a pickup truck at the intersection of Marshall Road and Brandy Lane.

At Michigan State University, tenure-track faculty reached a historic milestone. MSU has officially recognized the Union of Tenure System Faculty after a neutral verification process confirmed majority support. The agreement marks the first time MSU’s tenure faculty have secured collective representation, following years of organizing and legal disputes.

In national news tied to MSU, embattled Federal Reserve Governor and former MSU economics professor Lisa Cook will remain in her role while contesting President Trump’s efforts to remove her. A federal court ruled in her favor as she faces allegations of mortgage fraud tied to two 2021 property purchases, one in Michigan.

Meanwhile, Ford Motor Company announced a major recall, affecting nearly 1.5 million vehicles across the U.S. The recall involves more than a dozen models manufactured between 2015 and 2019 due to a potential defect that could cause rear-view cameras to display blank or distorted images.

(Lansing, MI) A Lansing man is fighting for his life after being struck by a vehicle Sunday night. Police say the 34-year-old was hit around 8 p.m. near South Washington and Malcolm X Street. The victim remains in critical condition. Investigators report the crash does not appear intentional, the driver is cooperating with authorities, and no charges are expected. The incident remains under investigation.

Meanwhile, Lansing’s ongoing homeless crisis took center stage at last night’s city council meeting. Resident Ivan Droste urged Mayor Andy Schor to withdraw the city’s lawsuit against property owners hosting an encampment near Dietrich Park. The city has also purchased dozens of modular housing units, known as “mod pods,” expected to be ready by next spring. Some residents expressed frustration at the timeline, warning that any delays past March would be disastrous.

At Michigan State University, students, faculty, and staff will notice a full-scale emergency alert system test today at 10 a.m. The test will include text and email notifications, computer alerts, the SafeMSU app, green light phones, and outdoor sirens.

On the state and national front, U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon visited Michigan on Monday, stopping at a Detroit charter school, Renaissance High School, Hillsdale College, and a Midland County GOP event. She pledged a hands-off approach during education roundtables.

Michigan’s unemployment insurance agency is also seeking the return of more than $2.5 billion in overpaid benefits dating back to March 2020. Officials say a recent court ruling has lifted an injunction that previously blocked repayment efforts. The collection pause is expected to be lifted later this week.

Finally, Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s trade mission abroad is moving from Japan and Singapore to Germany, where she is attending the IAA Mobility Conference, organized by global auto industry leaders. It remains unclear how long the governor will remain overseas.

LANSING, Mich. – Controversy is brewing in East Lansing over a proposed police union contract that critics say could weaken accountability measures.

The Lansing branch of the NAACP issued a statement over the weekend condemning the proposal, which they argue would strip power from East Lansing’s Independent Police Oversight Commission by reducing transparency and civilian review. Concerns have been heightened after allegations that officers used excessive force, including pepper spray, on college-aged Black men during Michigan State University’s Welcome Week in August. The issue is expected to be raised at Tuesday night’s East Lansing City Council meeting.

Meanwhile, the East Lansing School Board is scheduled to vote Monday on a new contract proposal finalized Friday by the teachers’ union and district administration. Educators have been working without an agreement since June 30, after a previous deal expired and negotiations failed in August.

In Lansing, the City Council will vote Monday evening on a series of settlements tied to lawsuits the city filed in its fight against the opioid epidemic. Council members will also consider setting public hearings for a property sale and a brownfield redevelopment plan on the 1400 block of Turner Street.

For drivers, Michigan Avenue is now down to one lane in each direction between Howard Street and Friendship Circle for road construction. The restrictions are expected to last until mid-October.

On the economic front, Lansing-area gas prices have dropped sharply. AAA Michigan reports the local average at $3.07 per gallon, down 24 cents from last week. Statewide, the average is $3.18, a decline of 12 cents.

Political debate also continues in Detroit, where U.S. Senate candidate and former congressman Mike Rogers has urged independent gubernatorial candidate and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to ask former President Donald Trump for federal help to lower violent crime. Duggan’s spokesman dismissed the remarks, citing major improvements in public safety, including a 90% reduction in carjackings since 2013 and a 19% drop in homicides in 2024.

Finally, luck struck in Michigan over the weekend as a state lottery player won $1 million in Saturday night’s Powerball by matching five white balls. The nearly $1.8 billion jackpot was split between winners in Missouri and Texas.

LANSING, Mich. (1320 WILS) — Authorities have announced new developments in a decades-old cold case. DNA evidence has linked Sean Patrick McNulty to a 1994 home invasion and sexual assault in Meridian Township. Investigators say McNulty, who took his own life in 1997 after being caught in a similar crime in Indiana, is now tied to a string of assaults and invasions that stretched from California to Ohio between 1980 and 1997. Law enforcement officials hope the discovery provides long-awaited closure to victims and their families.

In Lansing, the city is mourning the loss of longtime City Attorney Jim Smiertka, who passed away at age 79. Smiertka worked under four mayors and served as City Attorney for 18 of the last 30 years.

Travelers should also prepare for disruptions. Amtrak announced that two rail lines, including the Blue Water route running through East Lansing between Port Huron and Chicago, will shut down September 15–19 to accommodate the removal of defunct cooling towers.

Meanwhile, in Jackson County, prosecutors have charged Renee Nelson, a mental health professional with the Michigan Department of Corrections, with second-degree criminal sexual conduct for allegedly having a relationship with an inmate under her care. Nelson faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. Also in Jackson County, a woman has been charged with drunk driving and child endangerment after a hit-and-run crash Wednesday in Summit Township.

At the state Capitol, the Michigan House approved a two-bill package to modernize the state’s Amber Alert system. The legislation would expand alerts to social media and allow police to issue warnings for children with special needs or when a child is believed to be in danger. Lawmakers also advanced the Restroom Privacy Act, requiring students to use bathrooms matching their biological sex. Opponents argue the measure discriminates against transgender students and violates privacy rights.

On the political front, Oakland County businesswoman Monica Yatuma has entered the race for Michigan Secretary of State. A Republican and critic of current officeholder Jocelyn Benson, Yatuma became active in GOP politics following the 2020 election and is seeking the party’s nomination in next year’s race.

LANSING, Mich. (WILS) – A Williamston man has been sentenced for torturing his wife, who later died from a drug overdose.

Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Rosemarie Aquilina sentenced 44-year-old Christopher Palazzolo to 40 to 80 years in prison. Prosecutors say Palazzolo abused and tortured his wife before her death in May 2021. He was arrested in September 2022 by Williamston police and the Michigan State Police fugitive team.

Meanwhile, Clinton County authorities have identified the victim of a deadly crash over the weekend. Sheriff’s officials say 24-year-old Charles Chapko III of St. Johns died after his vehicle struck a tree and caught fire along Island Road in Duplain Township.

At the State Capitol Wednesday, thousands of state workers joined local leaders for a rally calling on lawmakers to pass a long-term road funding plan. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor and Michigan Chamber President Jim Holcomb were among the speakers.

Also at the Capitol, the Michigan House approved the creation of a statewide Silver Alert system to help locate missing seniors and vulnerable adults. State police would oversee the program, modeled after the Amber Alert system.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, continuing her trade mission in Asia, announced that Japanese company JR Automation will build its global headquarters in Zeeland, outside Grand Rapids. The nearly $73 million investment is expected to create 150 jobs.

In other news, U.S. Marshals arrested a Monroe family practice doctor, William Murdock, in connection with a child exploitation sting in Florida. He will be extradited to Port St. Lucie to face charges.

On the lottery front, Michigan had winners despite no grand prize in Wednesday night’s $1.4 billion Powerball drawing. One player won $2 million and another won $1 million earlier in the week. The jackpot for Saturday’s drawing has now climbed to $1.7 billion.

Michigan State University is seeking to dismiss a high-profile lawsuit filed by sexual assault prevention advocate Brenda Tracy. Tracy accused the university’s Board of Trustees of intentionally releasing her name to the public after she alleged misconduct by former football coach Mel Tucker. In its motion, MSU argued Tracy is attempting to turn Tucker’s firing into a “multi-million dollar windfall.” Tracy has not commented on the filing.

In Lansing, proposed revisions to the city charter will be discussed tonight during an informational meeting at the Foster Community Center. Recommendations include adding a ninth city council member and shifting elections to a four-year cycle instead of two. Voters will decide on the changes this November.

Meanwhile, a major rally for long-term road funding is taking place today at the state Capitol. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor, members of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, construction workers, and labor unions are calling on lawmakers to create a sustainable funding plan.

The Lansing School District is celebrating improved MSTEP scores across four subjects. Superintendent Ben Shuldiner noted that better attendance has played a key role in boosting academic performance.

At MSU, researchers announced two major health-related breakthroughs. Dr. Evangeline Alosilja developed a rapid bacterial contamination test using magnets and gold nanoparticles that changes color to signal safety or contamination. In a separate project, MSU scientists created a shampoo-like gel that could help chemotherapy patients prevent hair loss during treatment, pending clinical trials.

On the economic front, Governor Gretchen Whitmer revealed a $95 million investment from a Japanese auto supplier to establish a regional headquarters in Wixom. The project will create at least 200 new jobs and retain 175 others. Whitmer made the announcement while on a trade mission in Asia.

Wildlife officials confirmed the first cases this year of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) in deer. Four cases were reported across Eaton, Jackson, Van Buren, and Washtenaw counties. The disease, spread by biting flies, can be fatal to deer.

Finally, while no one claimed Monday night’s Powerball jackpot, a Michigan player in Grosse Pointe won $1 million by matching five white balls. The jackpot for Wednesday night’s drawing has grown to $1.3 billion.

LANSING, Mich. (Sept. 2, 2025) – Authorities are investigating a deadly one-vehicle crash in Ingham County that left a 40-year-old Gregory man dead early Monday morning.

The crash happened near Weberville at Elm and Frost Roads after reports of reckless driving and a man waving a long gun. According to the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle was later discovered on fire in a wooded area. Gunshots and exploding ammunition were heard before first responders arrived.

Deputies said the incident began after reports of the man carrying a firearm in a parking lot in the 300 block of Grand River Avenue. He drove off before police reached the scene.

In other local news, Stockbridge Police Chief Matthew Barta has resigned after three and a half years leading the department. Josh Howe will serve as interim chief while the search for a permanent replacement begins.

Road crews are back to work across Michigan following the Labor Day weekend pause. In Ingham County, one westbound lane of I-96 over M-52 will remain closed through mid-October for bridge maintenance.

Meanwhile, Labor Day also brought picket lines to Grand Blanc, where hundreds of unionized nurses and caseworkers at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital went on strike. Workers say the health system has refused to address nurse-to-patient ratios and proposed premium pay cuts. Hospital officials countered with a proposal they describe as “robust and competitive.”

Elsewhere across the state, more than 33,000 people participated in the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk on Monday. The tradition has been held every year since 1958, except during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Participants received commemorative certificates upon finishing the 5-mile trek.

On Mackinac Island, fire officials rescued a man Sunday after he partially fell down a cliff in a restricted climbing area. A ladder truck was used to bring him safely down, and he is recovering in stable condition with a possible broken arm.

Finally, many Michigan residents shared photos overnight of the northern lights, which were visible thanks to a geomagnetic storm.