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Today — 2 April 2026News - Detroit

Detroit police recovered stolen car same day, didn't tell owner for 6 months

2 April 2026 at 03:00

Imagine your car is stolen right out of your driveway. You report it and after a month, you count it a loss and settle with insurance.

Months later, you find out the car was never really "missing" at all.

Watch Darren Cunningham's video report below: Detroit police recovered stolen car same day, didn't tell owner for 6 months

It happened to a woman from Ferndale.

On Sept. 14, 2025, Sharon Crane's 2015 Hyundai Sonata disappeared from her driveway. Surveillance footage captures a car pulling up, someone got out and stole it in a matter of seconds.

"I came out and I was in shock and disbelief," Crane recalled.

The 64-year-old retiree said Ferndale police came over right away and took a police report.

And I hadnt heard anything, no sightings or anything and I called them a couple times and they hadnt heard anything either," she recalled.

After a month, her insurance counted it as a loss and paid her $8,900 in October. About two weeks ago, Crane said she got an unexpected call from Ferndale police.

They said that my car had been found in Detroit, she said.

Six months later, Crane learned her car had been found on Griggs Avenue near 7 Mile Road in Detroit, about 2 miles from her home.

But when she looked at the Detroit Police Department's investigative report, the bittersweet relief turned to pure disgust.

The police report shows DPD recovered it the same day it disappeared from her driveway.

Why did it take 6 months to let me know?" Crane asked. "They knew about the car, they had the car before I even knew it was stolen."

While her insurance rates were likely spiking, her car sat untouched in a Detroit police impound lot. Her belongings were still inside. The car was in perfect condition. But because six months had passed and the insurance company had already paid the claim. Crane no longer owned her car.

"Now it goes to auction. Cause I called my insurance when I found out they found it, seeing what I could do and she said now it goes to auction," Crane explained.

And I have to bid on it like anybody else if I want it back.

So, where was the disconnect? Ferndale police took the report, but Detroit police recovered the vehicle.

"And that's the reason I reached out to you is if it happened to me, how many other people did it happen to?" Crane said.

7 News Detroit reached out to DPD. A spokesperson said systems and processes are in place to make sure owners are notified the moment a vehicle is recovered. The department is looking into this situation to see how it was handled.

14 people graduate from Novi court rehabilitation program to overcome their addictions

2 April 2026 at 02:37

Fourteen people graduated from an 18-month rehabilitation program at the 52-1 District Court in Novi, stepping into a future free from addiction.

The Alcohol and Drug Court program focuses on recovery over punishment, offering individuals a second chance at life.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: 14 people graduate from Novi court rehabilitation program to overcome their addictions

52-1 District Court Judge Travis Reeds congratulated the graduates during the ceremony.

"For most judges, jail is a last resort," Reeds said.

Anthony D. Williams Sr., one of the 14 recent graduates, says his addiction started with a driving under the influence charge and continued until his second offense.

"Second DUI, then I was asked for a program for a second chance," Williams said.

He volunteered for the program 18 months ago because he saw an opportunity for change.

"A life-changing situation," Williams said. "This is the new me talking, so the old Anthony Williams, I dont know who that person is."

Williams said he is walking out of the program a winner.

"You have to fight yourself every day. They give you a second chance at life," Williams said.

Reeds, who has been on the bench for 12 years, said the program leads to lessened recidivism and often a lifelong commitment to sobriety.

"Its an amazing thing to watch," Reeds said. "You can put someone in jail and thats a temporary fix. What these people are doing to change their lives around changes the whole structure of the community and their involvement in it for, potentially, the rest of their lives."

Heidi Hertling graduated from the program 13 years ago and is now a coach for others facing addiction. She said supporting one another is crucial for those starting their road to recovery.

"They saw someone who wasnt criminal, but struggling," Hertling said. "We are different people. We are no longer criminal. We are just people. Its an amazing gift."

Williams emphasized the importance of moving forward.

"Never look at the obstacle. We have to walk in faith," Williams said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Multi-state initiative cracks down on distracted driving violations

2 April 2026 at 00:07

It has been nearly three years since driving with a phone in hand became illegal in Michigan, and law enforcement agencies are hard at work making sure drivers are aware.

Monday kickstarts Distracted Driving Month. It's a nationwide effort, but in Michigan, enforcement on I-94 is part of a broader campaign targeting distracted drivers that expands enforcement into Indiana and Ontario, Canada.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Distracted driving crackdown launched on I-94

I rode along with the Taylor Police Department as they, along with departments across the state, cracked down on distracted driving to show just how costly using a phone behind the wheel can be.

"In Michigan, it is a hands-free state, so you cannot touch your phone while you're driving at all," Taylor Police Officer Robert Sullins said.

Michigan's hands-free driving law passed in 2023. On our drive, we saw county, state and local police. Even Sullins' Waze app alerted him of the police presence.

Sullins eventually took us on the road as he kept his eye out for drivers on their phones.

"The best way I can spot someone on their phone is if we're driving side by side to them," Sullins said.

It did not take long to find one and make a traffic stop. After pulling the driver over, Sullins explained the interaction.

"He said he grabbed it (phone) out of his pocket to move it to the passenger seat, but you cannot have your phone in your hand. When I looked at him, he had his phone like this," Sullins said showing the phone near the steering wheel. "He was a little upset about getting the ticket and everything, but at the end of the day, I think he understands we're out here keeping people safe."

While each department is different, the cost of a distracted driving ticket in Taylor is $225 for a first offense.

Just a few months ago, a Taylor police officer on I-94 was rear-ended by a distracted driver on their phone.

"He was on a traffic stop on this freeway right here and someone on their phone rear-ended him, just drove straight into the back end of his police car, Sullins said. "She admitted to being on her phone, admitted that was the reason why she just didn't see him and crashed right into the back end of him.

Steve Kiefer is the founder and chairman of the Kiefer Foundation. The organization is named after his son, Mitchell. In 2016, while a student at Michigan State University, Mitchell was driving back to campus when he was hit and killed by a driver on their cellphone.

The organization travels to schools and helped pass the 2023 hands-free driving laws in Mitchel's memory. While Michigan traffic fatalities went up slightly in 2024, crashes went down nearly 5%.

Watch our 2023 coverage when the bills were discussed in Lansing below: Michigan House discusses distracted driving bills in Lansing

"The data is pretty clear that the laws have been effective and crashes and fatalities are starting to come down," Kiefer said. "Getting these laws passed around the country and knowing that we're saving lives in his (Mitchel's) honor is really the best way we can keep his memory alive."

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

DHS boss rescinds restrictive $100,000 approval process, giving hope to FEMA relief efforts

1 April 2026 at 23:50

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on Wednesday rescinded a rule that DHS expenditures over $100,000 be personally approved by his office, ending a widely criticized policy implemented by his predecessor Kristi Noem that critics said put a particular burden on the Federal Emergency Management Agency s work aiding disaster response and recovery.

The decision marks the first major action by the new Homeland Security leader, sworn in last week, to change a policy implemented by Noem, whom President Donald Trump fired in March.

Mullin's move is expected to ease a spending bottleneck that lawmakers and states said delayed disaster response and recovery funds, though those impacts are unlikely to be widely felt until after the end of the DHS shutdown, now in its 46th day.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Markwayne Mullin says ICE will need a judicial warrant to enter homes

A DHS spokesperson confirmed that Mullin rescinded the rule Wednesday, telling The Associated Press the secretary re-evaluated the contract processes to make sure DHS is serving the American taxpayer efficiently. CBS News first reported Mullin's decision.

The spokesperson said Mullins action will streamline the contracting process and allocate aid more efficiently.

The International Association of Emergency Managers praised Mullins decision. We appreciate Secretary Mullins common-sense approach to this matter, and we look forward to working with him, said Josh Morton, president of IAEM-USA.

Noem issued a directive last June requiring that she personally approve any Department of Homeland Security expenditure over $100,000. Critics said the rule undermined FEMA in particular, an agency that routinely issues contracts and reimbursements well over that amount in its work preparing for and responding to natural and manmade disasters across the U.S.

The policy created an untenable situation for emergency managers, Morton said, and a bottleneck that also hindered mitigation and preparedness programs, putting Americans at increased risk from disasters.

A recently released report by Democratic members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee found the approval rule had delayed at least 1,000 FEMA contracts, grants or disaster reimbursements by September.

RELATED STORY | Republican leaders in Congress say they'll pursue a path to ending the Homeland Security shutdown

The policy came under scrutiny after news reports linked it to unstaffed call centers and delays deploying FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams to Texas during deadly floods last July, and brought sharp rebuke from some state officials and lawmakers, especially Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, whose state is still recovering from devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Youve failed at FEMA, Tillis told Noem at a Senate hearing the day before she was fired.

About $2.2 billion in recovery and mitigation dollars were in the DHS approval queue Wednesday, according to FEMA data seen by the AP.

Its got a great mission, and I think people at FEMA want to do their job, Mullin told lawmakers at his March confirmation hearing, sparking cautious hope that he would ease the tumult experienced at the agency under Noem.

Mullin said he would keep the agency adequately staffed after it lost over 2,400 employees last year, and said he was already considering nominees for a permanent FEMA administrator, which the agency still lacks.

Trump has repeatedly floated the idea of eliminating FEMA, saying as recently as Tuesday that the agency is very expensive and it really doesnt get the job done.

Michael Coen, FEMA chief of staff during the Obama and Biden administrations, said, Hopefully this a step toward transparency and stability between FEMA and states."

DHS is reviewing other policies across the agency, pausing the purchase of new warehouses for immigration detention this week as it reviews contracts signed under Noem.

Lifting the spending approval rule will not necessarily mean a rapid flow of FEMA reimbursements to states, tribes and territories, as the agency is still impacted by the DHS fund impasse, now the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.

While FEMA disaster response and recovery activities are paid out of a non-lapsing Disaster Relief Fund, that money is running low, a FEMA official warned lawmakers in a House hearing last week, with about $3.6 billion remaining. The DHS appropriations bill would add just over $26 billion to the fund.

Republican lawmakers on Wednesday signaled an agreement to end the shutdown could be reached in the coming days.

Construction halfway complete for state-of-the-art Macomb County $228 million intake and assessment facility

By: Evan Sery
1 April 2026 at 23:26

Macomb County leaders are describing the future Central Intake and Assessment Center in Mount Clemens as more than just a jail. The $228 million facility is currently about 50% complete and connects to the already existing jail.

Watch Evan Sery's video report: Construction halfway complete for state-of-the-art Macomb County jail expansion

7 News Detroit got a first look inside the massive project with Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, who explained why the state-of-the-art building will serve as a national model for public safety.

The facility spans over 150,000 square feet and will feature 278 cell beds. Dedicated medical, mental health, and detox treatment wings are currently being built.

"The prisoner population portion is over here; this is where your cells will be," Hackel said.

Hackel calls the nearly $250 million project transformative, noting it will address the root causes of crime and recidivism.

"Were not here to build just a jail; we got an issue with mental health and substance use across the country," Hackel said. "So if theyre brought in here, because they need to be detained, we want to address that issue right on the onset. We have the capabilities with this facility to do that."

"24/7 365, any law enforcement agency that arrests somebody and brings them in, they're gonna be looked at for mental health and substance use," Hackel said.

Reginald Emerson owns Emersons on the Grill, located just down the street from the new facility. He was pleasantly surprised to learn the center is much more than a jail and will focus on mental health.

"I thought it was more jail cells didn't know what it really was, thought they were just making a new, bigger jail," Emerson said. "That is probably what's most important, it seems like there's a lot of mental health issues going on a bit more, I don't know what it is, maybe the family system breaking down and people on the street too much."

Also down the street is the 41B District Court. Chief Judge Jacob Femminine, who works in mental health treatment and sobriety courts, shared his thoughts on the project in a statement.

"This center will undoubtedly save lives and redirect individuals toward a supportive, recovery approach, which will, in turn, reduce recidivism through rehabilitation," Femminine said.

"This should be completed by the end of 2027, and that's when we'll start bringing in the prisoner population into the facility," Hackel said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Driver's Jeep struck by concrete thrown from an I-94 overpass in St. Clair Shores

1 April 2026 at 23:14

St. Clair Shores police are asking for information after a driver's vehicle was struck by a chunk of concrete thrown from the Frazho Road overpass on westbound I-94 Sunday night.

Sean Kokenos of St. Clair Shores was driving home from work in the right lane and was about to go under the overpass when a loud noise startled him.

Watch Peter Maxwell's video report below: th 110. Driver's Jeep struck by concrete thrown from an I-94 overpass in St. Clair Shores

"I heard a big pop and thought it was a gunshot. Then I noticed my windshield and noticed that someone threw a piece of concrete," Kokenos said.

Kokenos got off at 10 Mile Road and called 911. While inspecting his Jeep for more damage, he noticed not only had his windshield been hit, but a large chunk of concrete was wedged in the front of his SUV.

"I am fortunate that I am still here," Kokenos said.

When St. Clair Shores police arrived and started taking pictures, Kokenos said another driver pulled up.

"As they're taking the last picture, a Dodge Ram shows up and says someone is throwing rocks off on the freeway off the bridge and he seen a group of kids, and that's when they started investigating," Kokenos said.

Roseville resident Theresa Anderson lives just two blocks from the overpass. She said around the same time, three young men were caught on her home's surveillance camera kicking in her screen door.

"They were coming from the east on Frazho and they kicked in my door," Anderson said.

Anderson said she believes the three people who kicked in her screen door are the same people who were allegedly throwing chunks of concrete at vehicles from the overpass.

"Why are they going around causing all of this destruction and why would they do that to someone on the freeway," Anderson said.

St. Clair Shores police told me the case has been closed at this time, citing a lack of evidence, but it could be reopened. Police are asking anyone with information to give them a call.

Kokenos has a message for whoever is responsible: "Sometimes, you're just thinking it's fun and games, but you could kill somebody," Kokenos said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Verdict could have a major impact on the fight over Detroit Thermal heat in Lafayette Park

1 April 2026 at 23:11

A verdict came down Tuesday that would potentially impact how 600 tenants in a high-rise on Lafayette in Detroit could get their heat on a long-term basis.

Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Verdict could have major impact in fight over heat in Lafayette Park

For months, a controversial battle has been fought to keep utility company Detroit Thermal from gaining access to a utility line that was previously used in a Lafayette Park neighborhood.

On Tuesday, a Wayne County jury agreed that the company did not abandon access to a critical utility connection intended to provide heat to the 1300 Lafayette East Cooperative.

Over the past few months, a group of neighbors in the historic Mies van der Rohe Townhomes across the street have fought in court, saying the company had no right to access a capped & cut pipeline running under the trees and a play area.

Watch below: Judge extends restraining order blocking steam line installation for Detroit high-rise

Judge extends restraining order blocking steam line installation for Detroit high-rise

I really want people at 1300 to do well. I think there are other options," Ron Spann, a neighbor, said.

This neighborhood is home to lot of families that enjoy benefits of mature trees," Anthony Herta added.

Randy Essex, a resident at the Nicolet Townhouse Co-Op, is disputing the recent statement from Detroit Thermal that said in part, the verdict "clears path for Detroit Thermal to reconnect 1300 Lafayette East Cooperative to vital heat source..."

The statement also said they want to move ahead as soon as possible.

Essex maintained that while the jury did not find the company had previously abandoned lines or trespassed access to them, there is still an unresolved matter based on other cases.

Watch below: Despite historic Detroit neighborhood's fight against steam line installation, project moves ahead

Despite historic Detroit neighborhood's fight against steam line installation, project moves ahead

There are two court cases with orders now that prevent Detroit Thermal from doing this project. We are concerned about how coming in with heavy equipment and trenching would have a lasting effect," Essex said.

Across the street at 1300 East, residents said their current system hasn't worked correctly and that the Detroit Historic Commission did approve the project.

Thermal would be the best choice, if the law allows it. My heating bill was $500," Willie Robertson said.

Wed like the city to work with Detroit Thermal and use Rivard Street or some other path," Essex said.

Detroit Thermal has previously said that there are no other options and their plan would preserve the unique beauty in the neighborhood.

Detroit launches programs to grow the city population and increase homeownership

1 April 2026 at 22:14

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield launched a new program and highlighted other initiatives during her first State of the City address Tuesday aimed at growing the city's population and increasing homeownership.

The city is working to grow its population of roughly 645,000 while attracting out-of-towners and former residents through programs like Make Detroit Home and increase the Down Payment Assistance Program.

Watch the video report below: Detroit launches programs to grow the city population and increase homeownership

Sheffield introduced Make Detroit Home as the flagship program of the Move Detroit initiative.

"We're gonna be offering $500,000 in program benefits to 313 Detroiters, current and future, and folks here will get access to up to $15,000 in financial benefits they can use as a down payment, home renovation or investment in their business," Move Detroit President and CEO Hilary Doe said.

Watch Sheffield's State of the City address below: FULL SPEECH: Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield delivers first State of the City

"This mayor has been laser-focused on making sure that she is growing Detroit by taking care of Detroiters," the Mayor's Chief of Staff David Bowser said. "We have talked internally quite a bit about why people leave, and it's lack of opportunity. So we want people to come back and we want people to stay. We have to provide those opportunities to do so."

Mika Handelman, a California native currently living in Tennessee, is buying a house in Detroit's Morningside neighborhood. She says she fell in love with Detroit after completing a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Michigan.

"I mean, No. 1 is just gorgeous historic homes that are still affordable, so I'm trying to snatch before the market goes too crazy," Handelman said.

The city is also launching round three of its Down Payment Assistance Program. The program has already helped nearly 800 Detroiters become first-time homebuyers.

Gail Gibson, 66, used the program to buy the home she had been renting for a decade in the Mount Olivet neighborhood on the east side.

"I'm proud to be a Detroiter and it feels so good when you own your own home. It feels good. I never experienced the feeling of being a homeowner, but now I know how it feels. It feels good. This is mine," Gibson said.

Gibson's experience is inspiring her social circle, including former Detroiters living in the suburbs, to return to the city.

"I got a call from one of my friends saying she's paying $1,300, and she said 'oh, wow. I'm just gonna go ahead and apply for the program.' And she's coming back to Detroit. She was staying in Troy in her apartment and she said that she's gonna try and she's gonna come back to Detroit," Gibson said.

More information on both programs is available here:

Down Payment Assistance Program Move Detroit

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Livonia residents react to wave of new gas station proposals and the displacement of a local auto shop

1 April 2026 at 22:08

Several new gas station proposals in Livonia, including the demolition of a beloved local auto shop and a controversial Sheetz location, are drawing mixed reactions from community members.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report: New gas station proposals in Livonia displace beloved local auto shop

At Five Mile and Levan, the work at Levan Auto Service is usually non-stop. Owner Mohammed Albassam says they have built a good base of loyal customers who frequently stop by just to visit. But right now, the focus is on finishing up their last customers before they have to move out.

"Losing all these customers, it's basically losing everything we've been working on. We've been building, we've been creating for this facility," Albassam said.

The auto shop and the gas station it is connected to are set to be demolished and rebuilt if plans continue to move through the process with the Livonia City Council. Albassam, who was renting the space, says he never got a heads-up from the previous owner that the building would be sold.

"It can't be happening like that. You see a successful business, and you're telling that business it's over," Albassam said.

Albassam says he doesn't know what's next but has been informing clients about the change.

"It's sad to leave this facility after - after a while to be in it. It's like, it feels like home when you be here at 12, 13 hours a day. It feels like home," Albassam said.

The new owners, who operate Charlies Mart across Metro Detroit, say it was time for a change to the old structure. Co-owner William Bazzi says they are planning to redevelop in early spring and be done by late fall.

"Right now, its like an eyesore to the corner. Were trying to bring back an upscale experience business, put a bigger store with some food options, and try to compete with todays market, which is very competitive," Bazzi said.

Bazzi says they are working with Albassam and giving him until the end of April to relocate.

"Were dealing with a lot of real estate brokers trying to find the guy a new location. The community does love him; he does an excellent job. He does great work, and were trying our best right now to find something for him to move his location somewhere better, hopefully," Bazzi said.

But the clock is ticking on finding a new spot.

"Just, we're just hanging. We're just hanging. What's going to happen? We're going to see," Albassam said.

In the meantime, he says they will offer mobile services.

"What we say is the Lord always closes the door and opens many. So we're hoping to go in the many doors," Albassam said.

It is not the only big gas station change in the works. The city is considering or in the process of reviewing four other proposals. The plans range from remodels to new builds, and include a Sheetz location that is currently in the middle of a lawsuit.

I-96 & Newburgh (Eastbound side): New Shell gas station heading to city council for approval. 5 Mile & Middlebelt: Shell gas station will be demolished and rebuilt from scratch. 8 Mile & Newburgh: Sheetz gas station that's in the middle of a lawsuit. I-96 & Middlebelt: Meijer is expected to propose a new gas station.

"We dont need any more gas stations in Livonia. We dont need any eateries. Theres so many changes happening to our city right now," Lee Kurche said.

"Its all about the almighty dollar. Another convenience store gas station, obviously make money," Tom Bourne said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Saline secures $1.5 million state grant for new downtown development project

1 April 2026 at 22:04

The city of Saline has secured a $1.5 million state grant to support a new downtown development called The Saline Project, which will bring new housing, commercial space, and an outdoor gathering spot to the area.

Watch Tiarra Braddock's video report: Saline secures $1.5 million state grant for new downtown development project

The project will transform a historic building on South Ann Arbor Street into apartments and commercial space. The adjacent outdoor area will become a public gathering spot featuring seating, lighting, and trees.

In addition to the $1.5 million from the state, the city is committing $500,000 to the outdoor portion of the project.

"Weve talked about it long enough; its time to actually execute a quality project that will improve the quality of life for Saline residents," Brian Marl said.

Marl, the mayor of Saline, said he is looking forward to more people flocking to the area.

"I think it has the potential to be transformational for our downtown, I think it will attract additional investment to our community," Marl said.

Cindy Lewis has lived in the Saline area since 1998 and is looking forward to the new outdoor gathering area.

"I think its wonderful, I think its a great idea," Lewis said. "Right now, we meet in the street on Thursday nights; they have live music through the summer, but they have to block off the street, and everyone hangs out, which is cool, but if we have our own private space, we wont have to block off the road."

Erika Aylward is the co-owner of Boulevard Market, a cheese and specialty foods shop that recently opened in downtown Saline. She said she and her husband decided to open their second shop in the city because of how it invests in the community.

"I would love to see more people out and about on the street," Aylward said. "Any investment in community is just a positive move in an increasingly digital world. We have to keep connecting with people."

Construction on The Saline Project is expected to begin in the next few months and be completed by 2027.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

River Rouge splash pad repairs under way after long closure

1 April 2026 at 21:46

Repairs are underway at the River Rouge splash pad after a burst pipe kept the popular summer attraction closed since 2024.

Watch Carli Petrus's video report: RIver Rouge Splash Park! getting revamped

A spokesperson for River Rouge said crews are currently in the process of demolishing the splash pad. While officials know there is damage to some of the pipes, they are not sure of the full extent of the damage right now.

The River Rouge mayor recently called a special meeting to approve funding for the repairs, though the total cost remains unknown.

The city decided not to open the splash park last summer after the pipe burst. I spoke with a local family back in July about their frustrations with the lack of communication from the city regarding the closure.

PREVIOUS STORY: Residents seek answers as River Rouge splash park remains closed for repairs River Rouge Splash Park remains closed during summer heat

In addition to the repairs, the splash pad and the entirety of Memorial Park are getting upgrades. Community members will soon see a new basketball court, pickleball court, gazebo, and new fencing.

There is no exact timeline yet for the completion of the splash park or Memorial Park, but the spokesperson said the hope is that the work will be done in time for summer.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Another GLP-1 weight loss pill gets FDA approval, and it has fewer restrictions on how it’s used

1 April 2026 at 20:55

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved the second GLP-1 pill for weight loss, adding another option to a rapidly growing arsenal of obesity therapies.

The orforglipron pill, called Foundayo, is made by Eli Lilly, which also sells the GLP-1 drugs Zepbound for obesity and Mounjaro for diabetes. Those are given as weekly injections and, along with rival drugs Wegovy and Ozempic, have transformed weight-loss and diabetes treatment, with millions of people taking the medicines.

RELATED STORY | Without lifestyle changes, doctor says weight loss from GLP-1 drugs wont last

Foundayo is coming to market just months after the FDA approved the pill form of Novo Nordisks injectable obesity drug Wegovy. Both pills offer a new way to take GLP-1 medicines, so named for the hormone they mimic thats important for appetite, digestion and insulin regulation. But Lilly says Foundayo represents an advance because, unlike the Wegovy pill, it can be taken at any time of day and without restrictions on food and water.

Weve really designed this to fit into peoples lives as easily as possible, Dr. Dan Skovronsky, Lillys chief scientific and product officer, told CNN.

The Wegovy pill must be taken first thing in the morning, 30 minutes before food or drink, which can interfere with its absorption. That restriction hasnt appeared to affect its popularity, though: Its already being used by as many as 400,000 people in the US, according to estimates from Wall Street firm Mizuho.

The pills also represent a major change in pricing of and access to GLP-1 drugs; in a deal struck with the Trump administration in November, the pills start at $149 a month at the lowest doses for patients paying out of pocket, a much lower price than had previously been available.

Lillys medicine will cost as much as $349 out of pocket for the highest doses, still a hefty monthly sum for a medicine designed to be taken long-term. Lilly said Wednesday that if patients refill their prescription within a 45-day window, the highest out-of-pocket price would be $299 a month.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | GLP1 drugs may do more than control blood sugar and weight

Patients whose insurance covers the medicines will probably have much lower copays, and Lilly said Wednesday it will offer a coupon for people with commercial insurance so they may pay $25 a month.

As part of the Trump administration deal, Lilly said Medicare would also cover the pill for some patients, with a monthly copay of no more than $50, starting as soon as July 1.

We really want to democratize treatment of obesity and overweight for the millions of Americans that need it, Skovronsky said.

He noted that Lilly estimates that fewer than 1 in 10 people who could benefit from a weight-loss medicine are taking one of the injectable drugs and said the pills might appeal to people who have less severe obesity who havent wanted to try a weekly shot.

Similar to the other GLP-1 weight loss drugs, Foundayo was approved for people with obesity or who are overweight and have weight-related medical problems, such as high blood pressure.

In a trial supporting approval, people on the highest dose of Foundayo lost an average of 12% of their body weight over 72 weeks, compared with 0.9% for people taking a placebo. The injectable drugs have produced weight loss in trials of more than 20%, while Novo Nordisk said the Wegovy pill showed average weight loss of up to 17% on the highest dose in trials.

Lilly has also tested what happens when people whove lost weight with an injectable medicine switch to Foundayo, finding that it helped with weight maintenance. The study showed that patients who switched to the pill from injectable Wegovy regained an average of 0.9 kilograms, or 2 pounds, while those who switched from Zepbound, which produced greater weight loss, regained an average of 5 kilograms, or 11 pounds.

The most common side effects for Foundayo are similar to those for other GLP-1 drugs: nausea, constipation and other gastrointestinal effects. Some people also experience hair loss.

FROM THE ARCHIVES | Your genetics could dictate how well weight loss drugs work

Foundayo was approved for adults only and its safety and efficacy havent been established in children. Lilly also noted the drugs safety hasnt been established during pregnancy, and that people taking birth control pills should talk with their doctors about potentially starting another prevention method as birth control pills may not work as well while patients are taking Foundayo.

Lilly said the drug will be available for free home shipping via its LillyDirect platform starting April 6, with broader availability via pharmacies and telehealth providers shortly after.

Novo Nordisk has also explored new pricing and access structures for Wegovy, on Tuesday unveiling a subscription offering for between $249 and $329 a month out of pocket. It also offers the $149 price for the lowest doses of the Wegovy pill, but as for all GLP-1 drugs most patients move to higher doses over time.

The FDA said Wednesday it reviewed the Foundayo application in just 50 days under a Commissioners National Priority Voucher pilot program, making it the fastest approval of a new molecular entity since 2002. Typically, new drug approvals take at least six to 10 months.

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Coast Guard Mutual Assistance is helping overlooked federal employees weather the government shutdown

1 April 2026 at 20:32

The Department of Homeland Security shutdown is on day 46, and while TSA agents are now getting paid thanks to President Trump's executive order, there are 15 other agencies that fall under the Department of Homeland Security, which employs about 260,000 people.

These include Citizen and Immigration Services, FEMA, the Secret Service, CISA, which is the lead cybersecurity agency for the U.S., and the U.S. Coast Guard, the only branch of the military to be funded by DHS.

Now Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, the official relief organization for the Coast Guard, is stepping in to help civilian employees survive this funding gap.

"They're happy that these TSA agents who are on the front lines of keeping our nation safe every day are getting paid," said Donnie Brzuska, communications officer for CGMA. "However, I would say they feel forgotten. That really starts to wear on you, especially as you've gone 6 weeks without a paycheck, and you feel like nobody has heard your story. Nobody knows the challenges that you're facing. And again, that just reduces your focus on the mission."

RELATED NEWS | Airport bottlenecks ease as TSA workers get paid, but shutdown continues

During this shutdown, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance has received over 600 requests for help, totaling over $1.8 million.

Active duty Coast Guard members are still getting paid on the 1st and the 15th of every month, but even active duty Coast Guard has some uncertainty around those paychecks because the money is not coming from regular appropriations.

During the fall 2025 shutdown, then-Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the One Big Beautiful Bill would be used to pay active duty Coast Guard members. It's unclear if that same authority is being used now.

Scripps News has confirmed that active duty Coast Guard members did receive their paycheck on Wednesday, but for the rest of the Department of Homeland Security, there's a lot of uncertainty about when their next paycheck might come.

MORE ON THE SHUTDOWN | Trump directs DHS to 'immediately pay' TSA agents impacted by government shutdown

Trump says US objectives in Iran are nearly complete, but does not give hard timeline for ending the war

1 April 2026 at 20:11

President Donald Trump addressed the nation Wednesday night on the war in Iran.

The president highlighted what he believes is progress in the conflict and reiterated his timeline of two to three weeks to complete the operation.

"Tonight Iran's navy is gone. Their Air Force is ruins. Their leaders, most of them terrorist regime they led are now dead. Their command and control of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is being decimated as we speak," President Trump said.

U.S. officials say goals in Iran include preventing the country from obtaining a nuclear weapon, degrading its missile capabilities and its ability to produce more, and stopping the regime from arming, funding and directing terrorist organizations.

The attack on Iran was necessary for safety and security worldwide, President Trump said.

"For these terrorists to have nuclear weapons would be an intolerable threat," he said.

The president encouraged Iran to seek a deal to end the fighting, saying the U.S. would target more critical infrastructure if necessary.

"If there is no deal, we are going to hit each and every one of their electric generating plants," President Trump warned.

So far, the campaign has been conducted largely through airstrikes, supported by U.S. warships in the region.

While thousands of Marines have been deployed to the region, ground troops have not been used. However, while there has not been a decision to send ground troops, Trump wisely keeps all options at his disposal, according to a White House official.

The president did not address the possibility of sending U.S. troops into Iran on Wednesday night.

Scripps News analyzes President Trump's address on progress in Iran

RELATED STORY | Trump pressures allies to secure oil routes as Iran war strains NATO

There are two criteria, sets of criteria for the completion of the mission. The first is the objectives themselves having been successful, which, of course, there's no doubt that they have been militarily, said Jacob Olidort, Chief Research Officer & Director of American Security at the America First Policy Institute.

Ahead of the address, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the country is not the aggressor in the conflict and has acted in self-defense, blaming Israel for what he called manufacturing an Iranian threat.

He also appeared to try and appeal directly to many of Trumps supporters, asking how the war prioritizes America First policies.

The Iranian leader ended his message by saying the country has outlasted many aggressors, suggesting the conflict may not end on the timeline Trump has outlined.

I think militarily, we may very well be ahead of schedule, and the military has performed amazingly as usual, and yet there are not indications to me that the regime is at a breaking point. I believe they see the economic leverage as working, as splitting NATO, undermining alliances, raising the profile diplomatically of China as potential negotiator, said David Schenker, the Taube Senior Fellow at The Washington Institute.

RELATED STORY | Trump says Iran seeking ceasefire, but Khamenei signals no end to fighting

Trump ahead of the address suggested the US would consider a ceasefire in exchange for an open Hormuz Strait as the U.S. has pressed diplomatic efforts amidst military pressure.

Irans New Regime President, much less Radicalized and far more intelligent than his predecessors, has just asked the United States of America for a CEASEFIRE! We will consider when Hormuz Strait is open, free, and clear. Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!!! Trump posted on Truth Social.

The president on Wednesday night blamed Iran's attacks against other countries in the region for global spikes in oil prices, and warned that a nuclear-armed Iran would make those effects more severe.

He said nations that depend on oil from the Hormuz Strait would need to "build up some delayed courage" and take more responsibility for protecting the waterway.

"The hard part is done, so it should be easy," President Trump said.

Firefighters respond to blaze at Wayne State’s Maccabees Building

1 April 2026 at 20:10

Firefighting crews responded to a blaze at the historic Maccabees Building on the campus of Wayne State University Wednesday afternoon. Officials say the fire was contained to one floor and there were no injuries.

Wayne State Chief of Police Anthony Holt says the fire broke out from an HVAC unit.

“Investigations still continue,” says Holt, “but it was an electrical fire that began on the 11th floor on a platform outside the building there.”

Officials say most of the building’s damage appears to be water related, caused by the sprinkler system going off. Detroit Fire Department spokesperson James Harris says crews were on the scene in under five minutes.

“The men and women of the Detroit Fire Department did an awesome job,” says Harris, “awesome response time. No one was injured, everybody got out okay.”

The 15-story Maccabees Building is about 100 years old. It was added to the National Register of Historic places in 1983.

The Maccabees is the former home of WDET. The station operated there for more than two decades, moving out in the 80s following an electrical fire.

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Detroit Evening Report: Sheffield’s State of the City address prioritizes affordability, bringing business to city

1 April 2026 at 20:04

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield gave her first state of the city address last night at Mumford High School.

She announced a new program starting today for Detroit Public Schools students. “Any K-12 student in the city can ride the bus for free, seven days a week, 365 days a year.” Sheffield said some of the school budget money for bus fare will be rerouted into after-school programs. 

And she announced a plan to lure businesses to economic corridors in the city, with a new position: the Director of Retail Attraction. 

“For too long, the city has waited for retailers to come to them. My administration will go out and compete for that investment, because strong neighborhoods need more than housing and infrastructure. They need vibrant commercial corridors where people can shop, work and gather close to home.” 

Sheffield also said she was working with billionaire Dan Gilbert and the Move Detroit Coalition to entice more people to move to the city. “Our first program will support 313 current and future Detroiters with real resources, $15,000 to support home ownership and business growth, and $1,000 in relocation assistance to make it easier to come home to Detroit.” 

The mayor also highlighted some of the things she’s already done since taking office, such as raising the minimum wage for city workers, and bringing the program Rx Kids to the city to help new mothers. 

Additional headlines from Wednesday, April 1, 2026

New personal finance education initiative

The Michigan Treasury Department is kicking of a new initiative today called Mi Money Matters Financial Empowerment.

According to the Treasury department, nearly 80% of metro Detroiters earning below 125,000 report never receiving formal education in personal finance. Roughly 25% of Detroiters do not have access to a bank.

The initiative includes a website that links to free tools and courses on credit, banking, and student loans. 

Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax

Detroit City Council debated the value of Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax incentives yesterday, questioning whether they are a useful tool for relieving the tax burden on residents.

NEZ tax incentives cap the city and county millage rate at 50%. Under the current structure, a $300,000 home would be taxed $6,000; in the suburbs, the same home’s taxes would be less than $2,000.

Councilmember Scott Benson says the city needs to be competitive with neighboring cities, which the NEZ does by lowering taxes—even if they aren’t as low as a suburb’s. 

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Support local journalism.

WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.

The post Detroit Evening Report: Sheffield’s State of the City address prioritizes affordability, bringing business to city appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

Specialized US aircraft deployed to Middle East could signal what's next in the Iran war

1 April 2026 at 19:41

The U.S. is moving additional A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft into the Middle East as Operation Epic Fury and the war with Iran enters its second month.

Commonly known as the Warthog, the aircraft is specifically designed for close air support to protect ground troops. Military planners call the growing presence of these planes a capability signal, raising questions about whether President Donald Trump will consider it worth the risk to send American ground troops into Iran.

RELATED STORY | Trump issues new threat to Iran's desalination plants if a ceasefire isn't reached 'shortly'

Planespotters noted 12 A-10s crossing the Atlantic Ocean this week. The aircraft flew from New Hampshire and stopped at RAF Lakenheath in England, supported by aerial refueling tankers.

These reinforcements join Warthogs already operating in the theater. Since mid-March, the aircraft have been patrolling the Strait of Hormuz, using their 30-millimeter cannons to hunt Iranian attack boats.

The Pentagon says more than 120 Iranian vessels have been destroyed since the start of the war.

RELATED STORY | Seizing Kharg Island would risk US troops' lives and may not end Iran war, experts say

The Warthog is not built for speed or stealth, but rather flies low and slow to keep American troops alive on the ground below. The Air Force has attempted to retire the aircraft for years, but Congress has kept it alive. The current conflict in Iran may demonstrate why the plane remains relevant.

Utah investigators confirm woman found dead in 1974 was a victim of serial killer Ted Bundy

1 April 2026 at 19:38

On October 31, 1974, the family of Laura Ann Aime reported her missing. A few weeks later, hikers found her body partway down an embankment just off the American Fork Canyon Road.

Now, 18,780 days after she was reported missing, investigators confirmed that Aime was killed by noted serial killer Ted Bundy.

"We bring this case to a closure and more importantly closure to the Aime family," Utah County Sheriff Mike Smith stated at a press conference Wednesday morning.

Watch: Utah County investigators discuss investigation into death of Laura Aime Ted Bundy is confirmed killer of Utah County teen, investigators say

Smith said the break in the case came following investigators' reviewing every cold case in Utah County. The sheriff added that the investigators in 1974 did a good job in preserving the evidence, which provided crucial information to the detectives.

Bundy had confessed to killing Aime, but investigators had held off on concluding that he had committed the murder due to the lack of physical evidence at the time. Now, over a half-century after Aime's body was discovered, police say they can claim without a doubt that Bundy was the one behind the murder.

The DNA that was developed throughout the review of the case could also prove helpful in further investigation into Bundy's crimes. A detective with the Utah County Sheriff's Office says that they have been able to share their DNA profile with other departments.

They added that they believe that profile will result in the closing of another case in the near future, but they didn't specify which case.

Ted Bundy had previously been confirmed to have killed and assaulted several young women in Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, and Florida between the years of 1974 and 1978. He would confess to 28 murders, but investigators believed he was responsible for hundreds of deaths.

Bundy, in August 1974, was accepted to attend Law School at the University of Utah and moved to Salt Lake City. Laura Ann Aime would be reported missing just two months later.

In 1979, Bundy was sentenced to death for the murder of two college students in Florida. He was again sentenced to death in 1980 for the rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl.

Bundy was executed via Florida's electric chair in 1989.

This story was originally published by Michael Martin with the Scripps News Group station in Salt Lake City.

Republican leaders in Congress announce plan to end Homeland Security shutdown

WASHINGTON (AP) House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced a plan Wednesday to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security , moving past a split between the two Republican leaders that resulted in Congress leaving Washington last week without a fix to a record-setting partial government shutdown . They said in a joint statement that in the coming days Republicans in Congress will pursue a two-track approach. The first track returns to the Senate plan to fund most of the department, with the exception of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Border Patrol. On the second track, Republicans would try later to fund those agencies through party-line spending legislation. Neither outcome is guaranteed, and the strategy could potentially still face opposition from the GOPs own ranks even though President Donald Trump has given his support. We appreciate and share the Presidents determination to once and for all bring an end to the Democrat DHS shutdown, said Johnson, R-La., and Thune, R-S.D. The plan represents a do-over of what senators had in mind when they passed a bipartisan funding agreement through unanimous consent last Friday. The Senate could approve that same legislation again as soon as Thursday morning, but even if that happens, it's unclear how quickly the bill could move through the House. It will likely take several months for Republicans to act on the second part of Trump's plan and pass budgeting legislation to fund ICE and Border Patrol. House Republicans refused to go along with the Senate last week, instead changing the bill to fund all of DHS for 60 days. As a result, the shutdown continued as lawmakers left for their home states and congressional districts for a two-week recess. The DHS shutdown reached its 47th day on Wednesday. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer credited Democratic unity for the GOP's new strategy, saying, "for days, Republican divisions derailed a bipartisan agreement, making American families pay the price for their dysfunction." The announcement from the GOP leaders showed that for now, Thune and Johnson are on the same page. Their working relationship experienced a rupture late last week when Johnson at the urging of many House Republicans rejected Thunes plan. The top Republicans hope the path ahead will win over skeptical GOP colleagues, but the most conservative lawmakers are likely to seek full funding for all of Trumps immigration and deportation operations. Lets make this simple: caving to Democrats and not paying CBP and ICE is agreeing to defund Law Enforcement and leaving our borders wide open again, Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., posted on X. If thats the vote, Im a NO. It is uncertain whether Johnson could find enough support from the House to recall lawmakers back to Washington before their spring recess ends in mid-April. Meanwhile, the narrow budget package being prepared for later this year is expected to fund ICE and Border Patrol through the remainder of Trumps term, as a way to try to ensure those agencies are no longer at risk from a funding lapse due to Democrats objecting to the presidents immigration enforcement agenda. Earlier Wednesday, Trump weighed in on the shutdown, using a social media post to call on Republicans to fund the immigration portions of DHS through a bill that would not require Democratic support. He said he wanted the legislation on his desk by June 1. We are going to work as fast, and as focused, as possible to replenish funding for our Border and ICE Agents, and the Radical Left Democrats wont be able to stop us, Trump said. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries released a statement saying, Its time to pay TSA agents, end the airport chaos and fully fund every part of the Department of Homeland Security that does not relate to Donald Trumps violent mass deportation machine. The vast majority of Homeland Security workers continue to report to work during the shutdown, but many thousands have been going without pay. That led to more Transportation Security Administration agents calling out from work, causing frustrating security lines at some of the nation's biggest airports. Those bottlenecks appeared to be clearing this week as agents began receiving backpay, per an executive order from Trump. __ Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro in Washington contributed reporting.
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