Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in East Lansing Under Investigation

Authorities are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Tuesday night in East Lansing.

Police say officers were dispatched to a business near Lake Lansing and Abbot roads following reports of a theft. Before officers arrived, the suspect allegedly stabbed another individual.

According to East Lansing Police Chief Jennifer Brown, officers repeatedly ordered the suspect to drop the knife. When the suspect refused to comply, officers discharged their weapons.

The suspect was treated at the scene but later pronounced dead. The stabbing victim remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital.

Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public. The Michigan State Police have taken over the investigation, and the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave.

Lansing Man Sentenced in 2021 Murder

An Ingham County judge has sentenced Willie James Jr. to 50 to 100 years in prison for the 2021 killing of Andrew Watson.

A jury convicted James Jr. of second-degree murder in February. He was already serving a sentence related to a 2014 conviction for assault with intent to do great bodily harm and felony firearm stemming from a 2013 case.

Police Seek Suspects in Vehicle Break-Ins

Lansing police are asking for the public’s help identifying two ??????? of interest connected to a series of vehicle break-ins.

The incidents occurred at apartment complexes behind the Speedway on Lake Lansing Road. Authorities say stolen credit cards from the vehicles were later used for purchases.

Police have released surveillance images and video of the suspects and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Storms Bring Flooding, Tornadoes Across Mid-Michigan

Severe weather earlier this week continues to impact Mid-Michigan communities.

The National Weather Service reports that nearly two inches of rain fell between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, contributing to flooding concerns across the region.

In Mason, city officials say more than 37,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater spilled into Sycamore Creek from a new treatment plant.

Flood warnings remain in effect, and the National Weather Service has confirmed multiple tornado touchdowns across Michigan.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for 32 additional counties, expanding on a previous declaration for Cheboygan County, where flooding near the Cheboygan Dam has caused significant issues.

University of Michigan Resumes Presidential Search

The University of Michigan is restarting its search for a new president after announcing that president-elect Kent Syverud will not take the position.

University officials say Syverud was recently diagnosed with brain cancer, prompting the decision.

Michigan Senate Advances Nurse Overtime Ban

The Michigan Senate has approved bipartisan legislation aimed at banning mandatory overtime for nurses.

Supporters argue the measure will help prevent burnout among healthcare workers. Opponents, however, warn it could lead to reduced hospital services and fewer available beds.

“Jeopardy!” Contestant Extends Winning Streak

A Metro Detroit native continues to make history on “Jeopardy!”

Contestant Jamie Ding secured his 24th consecutive win in the latest episode, moving into sole possession of fifth place on the all-time consecutive wins list. His total earnings have now reached $667,000.

Severe Storms Leave Thousands Without Power Across Michigan

Tens of thousands of utility customers across Michigan are without power Wednesday morning following a wave of severe thunderstorms that moved through the state overnight. Among those impacted are residents in Mid-Michigan, where widespread outages have been reported.

Utility crews are working to restore service as conditions improve. In the Lansing area, a smaller number of local utility customers were also affected.

Weather alerts, including tornado watches and severe thunderstorm warnings, were issued Tuesday night for parts of the region, including the Lansing area and Clinton County. Those alerts have since expired, but the aftermath continues to impact communities.

Flood Warnings in Effect Amid Rising Water Concerns

In addition to storm damage, flooding is now a growing concern. A flood warning has been issued for the Sycamore Creek in Holt, expected to remain in effect through Thursday.

The warning is part of a broader flood watch covering Michigan’s entire Lower Peninsula. Officials are monitoring water levels closely as heavy rainfall combines with snowmelt to increase the risk of flooding.

In northern Michigan, rising water levels near the Cheboygan Dam are threatening homes, roads, and infrastructure. In response, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive order aimed at stabilizing fuel supplies in affected areas.

Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Against MSU Trustees

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by sexual assault advocate Brenda Tracy against the Michigan State University Board of Trustees. The lawsuit accused trustees of misconduct related to their handling of allegations involving former head football coach Mel Tucker.

The judge ruled that the claims did not meet the legal threshold to proceed.

However, Tracy has filed a separate lawsuit against Matt Ishbia, a prominent donor to Michigan State University and CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage. The new suit alleges interference in the investigation into Tucker and seeks more than $25,000 in damages.

A spokesperson for United Wholesale Mortgage has responded, characterizing the lawsuit as financially motivated.

Former University of Michigan Coach Sentenced

In a separate legal case, former University of Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore has been sentenced to 18 months of probation after pleading no contest to misdemeanor charges.

The charges stem from an incident involving the alleged malicious use of telecommunication services and trespassing at an ex-girlfriend’s residence. Authorities say Moore broke into the home to confront her following his dismissal late last year.

If he violates the terms of his probation, Moore could face up to 180 days in jail.

Metro Detroit Contestant Continues ‘Jeopardy!’ Streak

On a lighter note, a Metro Detroit native continues to make headlines on the quiz show Jeopardy! Jamie Ding secured his 23rd consecutive win Tuesday night, marking the fifth-longest streak in the show’s history.

Ding added $16,400 to his total winnings, bringing his overall earnings to $644,000 as his impressive run continues.

Lansing Area Braces for Severe Weather; East Lansing Police Under Scrutiny

Residents across the Lansing area are being urged to stay weather-aware Tuesday as forecasters warn of a heightened risk for severe storms. According to the Storm Prediction Center, Mid-Michigan is under a slight risk for severe weather, with two rounds of storms expected.

The first wave of showers and thunderstorms moved through the region in the morning, but the primary concern lies with a second round expected later this evening. Meteorologists warn that this system could bring damaging winds, large hail, and torrential rainfall.

East Lansing Police Department Faces Discrimination Concerns

In East Lansing, a Human Rights Commission subcommittee has raised serious concerns about what it describes as a pattern of racial discrimination within the city’s police department.

The findings stem from a review of complaints following an incident during Michigan State University welcome week last August, when two Black men were pepper-sprayed by officers. The men were initially charged with disorderly conduct, though those charges were later dropped. They have since filed a lawsuit against three members of the department.

Commission Chair Julia Walters noted that the report’s conclusions were not unexpected, describing them as part of the broader context that led to the creation of the city’s Independent Police Oversight Commission.

Pedestrian Injured in Lansing Crash

Lansing police are investigating a vehicle-pedestrian crash that occurred Sunday night on the city’s north side. Officers say a 32-year-old man was struck while walking through the intersection of Saginaw and Larch streets.

Authorities report that the victim did not suffer life-threatening injuries. Alcohol and speed are not believed to have been factors in the incident.

New Study Highlights Aging Population Trends

A new Tri-County Population Study is shedding light on significant demographic changes expected in the region. Covering Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties, the report projects that the Lansing area will see about 6% population growth over the next 25 years.

By 2050, the study forecasts an increase of approximately 30,000 seniors, alongside a decline of 10,000 young workers and 14,000 school-aged children—trends that could have major implications for the local workforce and economy.

Missing Lenawee County Woman Case Update

In an international development, authorities in the Bahamas have released Brian Hooker, the husband of a missing woman from Lenawee County.

Hooker had been taken into custody during the investigation into the disappearance of his wife, Lynette Hooker, who he claims fell from a motorboat. His attorney stated that he has not been charged with a crime, leading to his release as the search continues.

Flooding Concerns Prompt Evacuation Warnings

Further north, rising water levels have sparked concerns near the Sheboygan Dam. Authorities are advising nearby residents to be prepared to evacuate as flooding worsens.

Local officials are also warning the public to rely on verified information sources, citing widespread misinformation circulating about the situation.

Michigan Native Extends ‘Jeopardy!’ Winning Streak

Meanwhile, a Michigan native continues to make headlines on Jeopardy!. Contestant Jamie Ding secured his 22nd consecutive win, defeating competitors from across the state, including one from the Lansing area.

The Grosse Pointe North graduate added another $18,600 to his total, bringing his winnings to more than $627,000 as his impressive streak continues.

Storms, Fire Displacement, and Local Developments Lead Mid-Michigan News

Mid-Michigan could see a stormy start to the week, with the Storm Prediction Center placing the Lansing area under a marginal risk for severe weather Monday night. Forecasters warn of heavy downpours, with conditions escalating Tuesday into a slight risk category that could bring damaging winds, large hail, and torrential rainfall.

Officials Visit MSU, Discuss Agriculture and Funding

Michigan’s 7th District Congressman Tom Barrett is scheduled to tour the Michigan State University Dairy Research Facility alongside U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. The visit includes a roundtable discussion focused on farming priorities and the proposed Working Families Tax Cuts Act.

The pair will later travel to Howell to visit Livingston County’s 911 Central Dispatch, highlighting federal funding secured for the county.

Lansing Apartment Fire Displaces Dozens

In Lansing, around 20 residents were displaced after a fire broke out Saturday afternoon at the Woodbridge Manor Apartments on Edgewood Boulevard. The blaze started in a third-floor unit and led to evacuations in two buildings.

Six fire trucks, ambulances, and utility crews responded to the scene. The American Red Cross assisted displaced residents, providing emergency support. No injuries were reported, and property management is working to relocate those affected.

George Floyd Memorial Defaced

A street mural honoring George Floyd in Lansing was vandalized over the weekend. The artwork, located under I-496 at Cedar Street, was defaced with graffiti.

City officials say the mural will be removed for restoration. Floyd’s death in 2020 sparked nationwide protests and calls for police reform.

Gas Prices Continue to Rise

According to AAA Michigan, the statewide average gas price has climbed to $3.98 per gallon, an increase of about 12 cents over the past week. In the Lansing area, prices are slightly higher at $3.99 per gallon.

Swatting Incident Prompts Shelter-in-Place

Authorities in St. Clair County responded to a swatting call Sunday that led to a temporary shelter-in-place order in Marine City. Officials say a caller falsely reported a hostage situation involving a weapon.

Emergency crews quickly determined the threat was not credible, and the order was lifted without incident.

All-Michigan ‘Jeopardy!’ Episode Airs Tonight

A rare Michigan-focused episode of Jeopardy! airs Monday night, featuring three contestants from the state. Returning champion Jamie Ding will attempt to secure his 22nd consecutive win.

He faces challengers Eric Bubolz of Okemos and Catherine Hoffman, making it a uniquely local matchup for viewers across Michigan.

MSU Trustees to Decide on Spartan Success Center Renovation

The Michigan State University Board of Trustees is set to vote today on a proposed $5.2 million renovation project aimed at enhancing student support services.

If approved, the project would transform approximately 12,500 square feet of the Hannah Administration Building into a centralized hub for academic advising, career services, and tutoring—known as the Spartan Success Center.

Trustees are also expected to consider a resolution to establish “MSU Medicine,” which would merge the university’s College of Human Medicine and College of Osteopathic Medicine. And housing and dining rates for the upcoming academic year are on the agenda.

Lansing Police Investigate Fatal Pedestrian Crash, River Death

Authorities in Lansing are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred Thursday evening.

Police say a 62-year-old man was struck and killed by a vehicle near the intersection of Cedar Street and Jolly Road just before 9 p.m. Investigators do not believe alcohol was a factor in the incident.

In a separate case, police are continuing to investigate after a body was recovered from the Grand River in Lansing’s Old Town neighborhood Thursday afternoon. Officials have not yet released the individual’s identity or cause of death.

Road Closure to Impact Lansing Commuters

Drivers in Lansing should prepare for a temporary road closure beginning Monday.

Westbound Kalamazoo Street will be shut down between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Riddle Street for water main work. The closure is expected to last through Tuesday.

New Developments in Missing Lenawee County Woman Case

New information is emerging in the case of a missing woman from Lenawee County, drawing national attention.

Authorities in the Bahamas, along with the U.S. Coast Guard, are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of Lynette Hooker. Her husband, Brian Hooker, told officials she fell from a small motorboat Saturday night and may have been swept away by currents.

However, Brian Hooker has since been arrested and is being questioned by police in Freeport. According to Lynette Hooker’s daughter, there is a reported history of domestic violence between the couple.

He is currently being held at the Grand Bahama police station and has not been formally charged.

Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Washtenaw County

The Trump administration has filed a federal lawsuit against Washtenaw County, alleging that local officials violated the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause by obstructing immigration enforcement.

One of the defendants, Sheriff Alyshia Dyer, denies the allegations, stating that the county is not interfering with federal authorities.

A developing international case involving a Mid-Michigan woman is drawing national attention, as authorities confirm a criminal investigation into her disappearance.

Officials say 55-year-old Lynette Hooker, a woman from Lenawee County, went missing while traveling in the Bahamas. According to reports, she was last seen Saturday aboard a boat with her husband, Brian Hooker. He initially told local media that she was swept away by ocean currents, but authorities in the Caribbean nation have since arrested him as part of the investigation.

The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed the criminal probe, while search and rescue efforts continue in the Bahamas, including the use of drones.

State Concerns Over Hydroelectric Dam Sale

Back in Michigan, state officials are raising concerns over a proposed sale of 13 hydroelectric dams by Consumers Energy. The Michigan Natural Resources Commission unanimously opposed the plan during a Wednesday meeting, citing environmental risks.

While the commission does not have authority to block the sale, members warned that potential dam failures could devastate aquatic ecosystems and fish populations. The proposal, which involves selling the dams to Confluence Hydro, is expected to go before the Michigan Public Service Commission later this year.

Traffic Alerts and Water Issues in Lansing Area

Drivers in Lansing are advised to plan for disruptions. Jolly Road westbound is closed between Cedar Street and Pennsylvania Avenue for emergency water repairs. Officials say the closure is expected to last through the day.

Meanwhile, a water main break caused lane restrictions Wednesday on Haslett Road near Marsh Road in Meridian Township. Crews worked for several hours to complete repairs.

House Fire Under Investigation

Lansing fire officials are investigating a house fire that broke out Wednesday near Potter Park Zoo, in the 1100 block of Bensch Street. There is no immediate word on injuries or what caused the blaze.

GM Issues Major Recall

General Motors has announced a recall affecting more than 270,000 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles nationwide. The recall covers model years 2023 through 2025.

According to federal safety officials, the issue involves rearview camera displays that may appear distorted or go blank, increasing the risk of a crash.

Capital City Film Festival Underway

In Lansing, the 16th annual Capital City Film Festival is now underway. The event runs through April 18 and features more than 100 films, along with live music and interactive media from around the world.

Festival organizers say one of the highlights includes the Sweet 16 red carpet premiere party scheduled for tonight.

Michigan Native Shines on Jeopardy!

A Michigan native continues to make waves on national television. Jamie Ding, a graduate of Grosse Pointe High School, secured his 19th consecutive win on Jeopardy! this week.

The current New Jersey resident is now tied for the eighth-longest winning streak in the show’s history and has earned more than $500,000. He will attempt to reach 20 wins in the next episode.

MID-MICHIGAN — Severe storms and heavy rainfall over the weekend are prompting local leaders across mid-Michigan to reconsider infrastructure needs, as communities grapple with repeated flooding issues.

In East Lansing, City Manager Robert Belleman addressed the concern during a City Council meeting Monday night, emphasizing that current systems are no longer aligned with changing weather patterns.

“The weather our infrastructure was designed for is not the weather we’re experiencing today,” Belleman said.

City officials are now identifying flood-prone areas and evaluating potential long-term solutions.

Downtown Development Debate Continues

Also in East Lansing, debate continues over a proposed 13-story apartment complex planned for Albert Avenue. Public input remains divided, with some residents voicing concern about the project’s focus on high-cost housing.

Critics argue the development would primarily serve a narrow demographic and could further concentrate a transient population in a key downtown corridor without diversifying the city’s housing stock.

Lansing Weighs Data Center Restrictions

In nearby Lansing, a City Council member is proposing new restrictions on future data center developments following the abrupt withdrawal of a $120 million proposal by Deep Green.

The company pulled its plans just hours before a scheduled council meeting amid growing public opposition. Councilmember Deyanira Nevarez Martinez said she would have voted against the project and expects similar proposals to emerge in the future.

Lansing Shuffle Sale Moves Forward

Meanwhile, the future of the Lansing Shuffle is under consideration. The city’s park board is set to discuss whether to recommend approval of the property’s sale. If approved, the proposal would ultimately go before voters.

Business owners recently held a community forum to gather public input on the potential sale.

Slotkin Eyes Possible 2028 Presidential Run

U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin is not ruling out a presidential bid in 2028. During a recent visit to Iowa, Slotkin told the Des Moines Register she is currently focused on upcoming midterm elections but would consider a run if she believes there is a leadership gap.

MSU Programs Ranked Among Nation’s Best

Michigan State University is earning national recognition in the latest U.S. News & World Report 2026 graduate program rankings.

The university’s graduate programs in curriculum and instruction, elementary education, and secondary education all ranked No. 1 in the country.

Several other MSU education programs also placed in the top 10, including education administration, higher education administration, and rehabilitation counseling (No. 2), educational psychology (No. 4), special education (No. 8), and education policy (No. 9).

In addition, MSU’s School of Packaging received a major boost with a $47 million donation from alumnus Charles Frasier and his wife Jacqueline. The gift will fund the next phase of the school’s building expansion.

Lansing Data Center Project Shelved, Key Agreements Withdrawn

A proposed $120 million data center project in Lansing has been halted, at least for now, after the developer withdrew a key rezoning request that would have allowed the project to move forward.

Deep Green made the decision Monday to pull its application tied to the site near Cedar Street and Kalamazoo Street. In response, Lansing Mayor Andy Schor also withdrew a related buy-sell agreement involving parking lots tied to the project. The mayor confirmed the agreements are no longer under consideration by the city council.

City officials say that if the project resurfaces in the future, it would have to restart the approval process from the beginning, including rezoning and contract negotiations.

East Lansing Officer Resigns Following Controversial Arrest

An East Lansing police officer has resigned months after a controversial incident during Michigan State University’s Welcome Week.

Andrew Lyon stepped down late last week, according to reports, following an August encounter in which two Black men were pepper sprayed and arrested. The incident drew scrutiny and led to federal civil rights lawsuits. Lyon and East Lansing Police Chief Jennifer Brown are both named in the legal action.

Consumers Energy Signals Another Rate Increase Request

Consumers Energy is preparing to seek another electric rate increase, just one week after a previous hike was approved.

The utility filed notice with the Michigan Public Service Commission indicating it plans to submit a formal request on or after June 2. The amount of the proposed increase has not yet been disclosed.

In its most recent case, Consumers requested a $436 million increase along with a $24.3 million surcharge—raising household electric bills by approximately 13 percent.

Senate Race Funding Boost for Mike Rogers

Michigan U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers has secured $45 million in support from the Senate Leadership Fund, a Republican-aligned political action committee.

Rogers is campaigning for the seat that will be vacated by Democratic Senator Gary Peters at the end of his current term, setting up what is expected to be a highly competitive race.

East Lansing Parks Reopen for the Season

Dog owners in East Lansing can once again visit the Northern Tail Dog Park, which has reopened for the 2026 season. The park is located on Abbott Road.

Additionally, pickleball courts at Patriarche Park are now open to the public, signaling the return of spring and outdoor recreation opportunities in the area.

Ann Arbor Celebrates Michigan’s National Championship

Downtown Ann Arbor saw large crowds overnight as fans celebrated the University of Michigan men’s basketball team winning the national championship.

Thousands gathered in the streets following the Wolverines’ 69-63 victory over UConn in the title game. Celebrations included fireworks, climbing light poles, and widespread festivities across the campus and city.

City Council Vote on Data Center Proposal

The Lansing City Council is set to vote Monday night on a $120 million Deep Green Data Center project, which includes rezoning measures and the potential sale of parking lots near Cedar Street and Kalamazoo Avenue.

Mayor Andy Schor has voiced support for the proposal but acknowledged uncertainty about how council members will ultimately vote, citing strong public reaction on both sides of the issue.

Schor noted that while some residents privately support the project, they have been hesitant to speak publicly due to concerns about backlash. Opponents, he said, have been particularly vocal in their resistance.

The mayor also emphasized that even if the proposal is rejected, the project could still move forward elsewhere—meaning Lansing could miss out on potential economic benefits.

Heavy Rain Causes Flooding, Sewer Concerns

Severe weather over the weekend brought heavy rainfall that led to widespread flooding across the Lansing area. Roads and neighborhoods were impacted, including portions of I-496 between Waverly Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, as well as Pennsylvania Avenue.

Flooding also forced the closure of Potter Park Zoo.

In Dimondale, officials reported that untreated sewage was discharged into the Grand River due to the storm. Residents have been advised to avoid contact with the river for several days and to limit water usage to ease strain on the sanitation system.

Tornado Confirmed in Southeast Michigan

The same storm system also produced a tornado in southeast Michigan. The National Weather Service confirmed an EF1 tornado touched down in Wayne County near Van Buren Township and Belleville.

In addition, Monroe County experienced damage from strong straight-line winds.

Fruit Growers Monitoring Temperature Swings

With fluctuating early April temperatures, concerns have emerged about potential impacts on Michigan’s fruit crops. However, industry experts say there is no immediate cause for alarm.

Ben Smith, director of the Michigan State Horticultural Society and a grape grower, said while growers are always cautious this time of year, current conditions appear typical for the season.

Gas Prices Decline Across Michigan

Drivers are seeing some relief at the pump. According to AAA Michigan, the statewide average gas price dropped to $3.87 per gallon—down about nine cents from the previous week.

In the Lansing area, prices averaged $3.81 per gallon, making it one of the more affordable metro areas in the state, behind only Flint and Saginaw.

Students Return as Spring Break Ends

Meanwhile, many students across the Lansing region returned to classrooms Monday as spring break came to an end. Major districts, including Lansing Public Schools, resumed classes to kick off the final stretch of the academic year.

Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency as Gas Prices Rise

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared an energy emergency in Michigan in response to rising gas prices tied to the ongoing war in Iran. The executive order temporarily waives gas vapor pressure requirements in Southeast Michigan’s most populous counties. The measure is set to take effect May 1 and remain in place through July 1, aiming to stabilize fuel supply and reduce costs for drivers.

Federal Leaders Highlight Tax Cuts During Lansing Visit

Amid the same global tensions and rising tariff concerns, Michigan’s 7th District Congressman Tom Barrett joined Small Business Administration head Kelly Loeffler in Lansing on Thursday. The pair toured Campbell Press as part of a broader manufacturing-focused visit, highlighting tax cuts enacted under the Trump administration and their impact on small businesses and domestic production.

USDA to Close East Lansing Research Facility

The U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to close the Forest Service Research and Development Facility in East Lansing as part of a nationwide restructuring effort. Three additional Michigan facilities are also slated for closure, though a timeline has not yet been announced. A regional office based in Wisconsin will serve seven states, including Michigan.

Lansing Economic Development Reports Growth

The Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) released its 2025 annual report, showcasing continued economic growth. Since 2018, LEDC-supported projects have generated more than $4.5 billion in investment and created approximately 3,500 jobs.

In 2025 alone, the organization distributed $80,000 in microloans and supported over 70 businesses through its retention and expansion programs. Additionally, more than $270,000 was awarded to 19 businesses through the Facade Improvement Program.

House Fire in St. Johns Leaves Home Destroyed

A house fire in St. Johns on Thursday morning resulted in a total loss of the home. The fire broke out on Pratt Road near Linton. Two residents were able to escape safely, but several pets were killed in the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Eighth Measles Case Confirmed in Michigan

Health officials have confirmed an eighth case of measles in Michigan, this time in Monroe County. The case has not yet been linked to the seven previously reported cases in neighboring Washtenaw County or to travel.

State health officials are urging parents of infants aged 6 to 11 months to consider vaccination as a precaution.

Ford Reports Decline in First-Quarter Sales

Dearborn-based Ford Motor Company reported an 8.8% drop in vehicle sales during the first quarter compared to the same period last year. The company attributes the decline to a temporary halt in production of the Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair as it shifts focus toward larger SUVs.

Good Friday Observances Across Lansing Area

Christians across the Lansing area are marking Good Friday with services and gatherings. The day commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and serves as a time of reflection and mourning ahead of Easter Sunday.

Lansing Faces Storm Threat as City Debates Major Development Project

Residents in Lansing could be in for another round of unsettled weather, with forecasters calling for thunderstorms Thursday evening. The primary concerns include wind gusts reaching up to 35 miles per hour and heavy rainfall that could lead to isolated flooding in low-lying areas.

Data Center Proposal Faces Uncertain Future

At the same time, debate continues to intensify over a proposed $120 million data center project in the city. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor voiced support for the plan, calling it a “sensible and responsible” development. The project, proposed by Deep Green, would be located near Cedar Street and Kalamazoo Street.

However, the proposal faces resistance within the Lansing City Council. Reports indicate that at least three of the eight council members are either opposed or leaning against the sale and rezoning of city-owned land tied to the project. The measure requires six votes to approve the land sale and five votes for rezoning. A ?????ing vote is expected at the council’s next meeting Monday night.

Lansing Man Charged in Child Exploitation Case

In a separate development, the Michigan State Police announced the arrest of a 38-year-old Lansing man on multiple child sex-related charges. The suspect faces three counts of possession of aggravated child sexually abusive material and three counts of using a computer to commit a crime.

Authorities say the investigation began after a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Law enforcement executed a search at the suspect’s home, where electronic devices were seized and evidence was collected. No additional details have been released.

Lansing Symphony Nears Selection of New Music Director

The Lansing Symphony Orchestra has announced five finalists in its search for a new music director. Each candidate will lead performances during the 2026–2027 season as part of the final selection process. The orchestra is seeking a successor to retiring director Timothy Muffitt, with a final decision expected in summer 2027.

Michigan Seeks Federal Aid After Deadly Tornadoes

On the state level, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has requested a federal disaster declaration from Donald Trump following a series of tornadoes that struck southwest Michigan last month. The storms killed four people and injured several others, marking the state’s deadliest tornado event in nearly 50 years.

Meanwhile, winter weather remains a concern in northern parts of the state, where advisories and warnings are in effect for snow and freezing rain through Friday morning.

Supreme Court Rejects Michigan Appeal in Line 5 Case

In ongoing legal battles over the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline, the U.S. Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from the state of Michigan. The state argued that Governor Whitmer had sovereign immunity in a lawsuit filed by Enbridge. The ruling allows the case to proceed as the energy company seeks to continue pipeline operations under the Straits of Mackinac.

GM Reports Sales Decline

General Motors reported a 10% decline in first-quarter vehicle sales compared to last year. The drop follows a surge in March 2025 sales, when consumers rushed to purchase vehicles ahead of anticipated tariffs.

Michigan Native Makes History in Space

A Michigan native is making history in space exploration. Christina Koch, who grew up in the Grand Rapids-area community of Sparta, has become the first woman to travel to the moon as part of NASA’s Artemis II mission, which launched from Kennedy Space Center.

Early Morning Fire in Lansing

Fire crews responded to a house fire early Wednesday morning in the 5000 block of Southgate near Jolly Road. Officials say the blaze broke out around 4 a.m., but everyone inside the home was able to escape safely without injuries. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

NAACP President Steps Down to Run for Office

Harold Pope has stepped down as president of the Lansing NAACP and announced a run for Michigan’s 74th District House seat. The position will be vacated by Kara Hope at the end of her term.
James McCurtis Jr. will serve as interim president during the transition.

Parents Face Charges in Toddler’s Death

In Aurelius Township, two parents appeared in court Tuesday in connection with the death of their 21-month-old son.
Pierson Davis and Karolina Davis are charged with murder and child abuse. Authorities say the child was found dead in August 2024, while another young child in the home showed signs of neglect.
A preliminary examination is scheduled for July 7.

State Leaders React to Supreme Court Decision

Gretchen Whitmer and Dana Nessel are criticizing a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down a ban on conversion therapy for LGBTQ youth in Colorado.
Michigan is currently facing a legal challenge to a similar ban signed into law in 2023.

Michigan Pushback on Federal Voting Order

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is pushing back against an executive order from Donald Trump targeting mail-in voting. Benson called the move illegal and said the state plans to challenge it in court, emphasizing that elections are administered by states—not the federal government.

Man Sentenced in Campaign Fraud Scheme

A Florida man has been sentenced to two to ten years in prison after being convicted in Macomb County of defrauding multiple 2022 Michigan campaigns.
Willie Reed was found guilty in a scheme involving nearly $400,000 in fraudulent signatures. He was one of three individuals charged in the case.

Lawmaker Proposes Penalty for Federal Deficit Spending

State Representative Steve Carra is advocating for a bill that would penalize members of Congress who support deficit spending. The proposal includes a 75% surcharge on lawmakers who vote for increased federal deficits.

Cannabis Industry Files Lawsuit Over New Tax

The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association has filed a lawsuit challenging the state’s 24% wholesale marijuana tax. The group argues the tax is effectively a disguised sales tax. The measure was recently approved as part of Governor Whitmer’s road funding plan.

Easter Spending Expected to Hit Record Levels

According to the National Retail Federation, consumer spending for Easter is expected to reach nearly $25 billion this year.
Candy remains the most popular purchase, with 92% of shoppers planning to buy sweets. Gifts and decorations are also popular, with more than half of consumers planning those purchases.