Residents in one historic Pontiac neighborhood say they are fed up dealing with repeated flooding and sewer backups, while struggling to get clear answers from those in charge.

For homeowners in the Seminole Hills neighborhood, this isnt a one-time occurrence they say its been happening for years.

Watch Carolyn Clifford's video report below: Historic Pontiac neighborhood dealing with flooding, sewer backups

Imagine dealing with water in your basement again and again and still not knowing why it keeps happening, said resident Steve Layne, who reached out to 7 News Detroit for help.

Layne has lived on Miami Street for six years and says the problem has only gotten worse.

Its been an ongoing issue for years now from the moment I moved in, he said.Its just escalated tremendously. Pretty much everyone on this block is having backup issues.

Layne says he has contacted both the Oakland County Water Resources Commission and Pontiacs public works department, but feels like hes getting the runaround.

Nobody wants water in their basement. The other concern is we try to get answers from the county and it feels like theyre playing the blame game, he said.

About three weeks ago, Layne says crews from an out-of-state contractor suddenly showed up on his street without notice.

I dont know what work they were doing. Its been hard to even get that information, he said.

He was later told the work involved relining sewer lines. Then, more recently, another contractor appeared near his home, this time working on water lines, but Layne says no explanation was provided.

No notice on any of the work thats been done, he said.

The lack of communication has left many neighbors confused and concerned about whats happening underground.

The county is saying its the city, the city is saying its the county we just want answers, Layne said.

Even more troubling, Layne points out that water is still pooling in areas of the neighborhood even on dry days.

With no clear resolution, Layne has now contacted an attorney.

Attorney David Rubin, who has handled thousands of flooding cases across Michigan, says situations like this can be complicated. But residents have taken an important first step.

Homeowners in the neighborhood have filed a formal notice of claim within the required 45-day window, putting both the city and county on notice.

Rubin says thats critical in moving a case forward and holding agencies accountable.

Attorney David Rubin more information in the video player below: Attorney David Rubin gives homeowners tips on flooding cases

7 News Detroit did hear back from the Oakland County Water Resources Commission. A spokesperson said Commissioner Jim Nash plans to respond, but has not yet provided details.

We also reached out to Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness and the citys public works department, but have not received a response.

For Layne and his neighbors, the goal is simple: fix the problem.

Were not trying to play the blame game, he said. We just want this fixed.

Attorneys say cases like this can take time, but believe a resolution could come within about a year.

For homeowners here, its about more than inconvenience its about protecting their homes, their investment and their peace of mind.

Its a major victory for a family of six locked up at an immigration detention center in Texas for 10 months.

In a ruling Monday a federal judge said the El Gamal family should be released and allowed to pursue their asylum case under supervision back home in their Colorado Springs community.

Scripps News featured letters and drawings from the El Gamal children detailing struggles with health care and daily life at the Dilley detention center in Texas.

SEE MORE | Family of Boulder attack suspect held in ICE detention for 300+ days, children plead for release

The family are the wife and children of a man accused of throwing Molotov cocktails in a deadly attack against demonstrators gathered in Boulder, Colorado, in support of Israeli hostages.

The judge found no evidence to suggest the family knew anything about the plot and said their detention seemed to have no end in sight.

The El Gamals are originally from Egypt and overstayed a tourist visa.

The judge has given attorneys for the government and the family two weeks to propose conditions for their release.

ICE Inc. | Investigating ICE immigration detention centers around the U.S.

Students at the University of Detroit Mercy are making a difference in the community by creating technology to improve mobility for people with disabilities.

Watch Demetrios Sanders' video report: Tech changing lives at U of D Mercy

Through the university's Faces on Design program, engineering and nursing students collaborated for months to build assistive technology devices for three individuals.

Some of the technology showcased on Monday included a device to help individuals in wheelchairs get into cars, technology to move household items from a vehicle to a porch, and an all-in-one grabbing and reaching device.

Rochester Hills resident Richard Dries received the all-in-one grabbing device. While working on a roof in 2014, Dries fell, an accident that originally left him paralyzed from the neck down.

"One minute I'm standing on a building, one second later my face is on cement," Dries said.

He has since regained some mobility and uses various grabbing and reaching devices for everyday tasks.

"I get myself up in the morning, get myself dressed in the morning, take two of the sticks and stretch out as straight as they'll go," Dries said.

Mechanical engineering student Marino Bachi helped create the new device to make things simpler for Dries.

"Our main goal was increasing quality of life. So any challenges Richard faced on a daily basis, our goal was to go in and make him as happy as we could," Bachi said.

Professor of Nursing Molly McClelland said the process is a team effort from concept to construction.

"They get together with a client and a blank sheet of paper, and they have to figure out," McClelland said. "None of us have all of the knowledge, work with others who are an expert in their field because collectively you'll be able to make a better product."

Nursing student Mariana Mati also worked on the project.

"I knew that I would be making a difference in someone's life, especially my client, so it was just very rewarding, very fulfilling," Mati said.

Those receiving the devices are looking forward to the possibilities they will bring.

"'This is going to help so many people.'. I totally agree with that," Dries 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.

South Lyon city leaders have implemented a new ordinance to crack down on e-bikes, electric scooters, and electric skateboards following mounting safety concerns.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report: South Lyon cracks down on e-bikes and scooters with new safety ordinance

The new city ordinance amendments, City of South Lyon Ordinance No. 02-26, prohibit e-bikes in the downtown and historic district. The rules also ban reckless riding, riding on sidewalks, and limit speeds to 15 miles an hour on trails. E-moto, also known as electric mopeds, motorcycles, and dirt bikes, are not legal at all in the city.

Most violations of the skating and electric skateboard/scooter rules are civil infractions. However, operating an electric bicycle in a careless or reckless manner on a trailway or violating certain park vehicle rules rises to a misdemeanor.

South Lyon Police Chief Bonnie Unruh said the changes are designed to keep the community safe after a young man was hit by a car and injured while riding an e-bike in 2025.

"I want to take this seriously because people are getting hurt. Back in 2025, in South Lyon, we did have a young man that was hit by a car and hurt while riding an e-bike, so this is more to keep the community safe," Unruh said.

Austin White of South Lyon Cycle explained that e-bikes have a motor and pedal that can reach varying speeds.

"In the state of Michigan, there are three classes of e-bikes," White said. "Class one and two, up to 20, class three, up to 28," White said.

White says it's important to know that anything that goes faster is not considered an E-bike. State laws are already in place for e-bikes.

Electric motorcycles don't have a pedal and are considered motorcycles under Michigan law.

Riders also have to be 14 or older to ride a class three E-bike and wear a helmet if under 18.

Some community members have been sounding alarms to leaders about young riders driving recklessly on the rail trail.

"Packs of four or five kids doing wheelies, you know, my wife got the bird flipped at her a couple times by these kids, so its been kind of an ongoing thing," Aric Streeter said.

Jim Cyr says the ordinance can be helpful for walking downtown.

"It can be kinda scary when youre just walking your dog down the sidewalk and come like flying up from behind you. You dont know that theyre there because theyre also pretty quiet," Jim Cyr said.

Other residents have mixed feelings about the changes.

"I have a lot of children, so I do really like seeing kids outside more and Id rather them be outside on an e-bike than scrolling TikTok for hours," Jasmine Souls said."We make people have drivers licenses. We make people have motorcycle licenses, but these e-bikes, they seem a little bit unregulated."

While the reckless riders have been a nuisance at times on the trails, Streeter hopes the kids are able to enjoy their bikes safely.

"Hopefully it doesnt end up being too onerous for the kids because again I dont want to take away their fun, but it is a little bit intimidating having these big vehicles on the trails and the streets," Streeter said.

Currently, officers are educating the public about the new rules. Police have handed out 20 warnings and referred one minor to South Lyon Youth Assistance. However, violations can lead to a civil infraction and even misdemeanor charges.

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.

Jury selection began Monday for the man accused of fatally shooting Melvindale Police Cpl. Mohamed Said nearly two years ago.

On July 21, 2024, the 26-year-old corporal responded to a suspicious person call near a car wash on Dix Avenue. He encountered 44-year-old Michael Lopez, who fled on foot. During the pursuit, a struggle ensued between the two men. Police say Lopez fatally shot Said in the head.

Watch Faraz Javed's video report below: Trial begins in Officer Said's death

Lopez later admitted to investigators that he intentionally meant to shoot the officer because he did not want to go back to jail. A two-day multi-jurisdictional manhunt led to Lopez's capture in southwest Detroit. The arresting team used Said's own handcuffs to restrain Lopez.

Lopez is charged with murder, being a felon in possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon and drug possession. Said's family is pushing for maximum punishment.

Previous coverage: 'We lost a hero.' Brother of fallen Melvindale officer said 'Mo' loved his community 'We lost a hero.' Brother of fallen Melvindale officer said 'Mo' loved his community

Nearly two years after the fatal shooting, the Melvindale community continues to honor the fallen hero. Melvindale High School Athletic Director Abdul Yahia, who is married to Said's cousin, showed me how Said's legacy continues.

"Mohamed wanted to be a police officer and it's all he talked about," Yahia said.

Said was a phenomenal soccer player with 52 career goals. His jersey, No. 10, was retired at the high school.

"Yeah, he was stud," Yahia said. "I think he'd be in awe of how much the community really appreciated him. And this is just a message of letting him know that we appreciate you in return."

Watch the extended interview with Abdul Yahia below: 'His legacy definitely lives on.' Officer Said's cousin speaks ahead of trial

The Yemeni American moved to Michigan with his family 10 years ago. Said is survived by his parents, two brothers and the entire Melvindale community.

"Initially when all this happened, right, you're in a state of shock and you're thinking there's no way kids would want to be a police officer, right? Nobody wants to go through a scenario like that. But the exact opposite has actually happened where he's inspired more and more people to go out there and serve and protect. And of course, we go absolutely, you know, go serve and protect. Be like a Mohamed Said," Yahia said.

"It's to be a person of character, to be a person of integrity, to be a person who lives with a purpose for a purpose."

Previous coverage: 'He deserves the death penalty.' Family of fallen Melvindale officer speaks after preliminary exam of suspect Family of fallen Melvindale officer speaks after preliminary exam of suspect

The Melvindale community transformed grief into a lasting tribute. Said's funeral carried the theme "Don't just remember him, resemble him." Melvindale's Strong Middle School was renamed to Mohamed Said Elementary, and the city hosts an annual Said Memorial soccer tournament that draws teams statewide.

"I think if you treat people a certain way and I think if you live with a purpose, people are always going to remember you," Yahia said.

Related Story: Melvindale honors fallen officer Mohamed Said with new elementary school Melvindale honors fallen officer Mohamed Said with new elementary school

The community will be watching the trial closely, especially when Lopez takes the stand.

"I mean, I'd like to know where he's at right now with it. I'd like to know if there's any regret. I'd like to know if, you know, you made a grave mistake. Like, are you willing to apologize to the family? You know, are you willing to look his father in the eye and apologize, his brother who loves him dearly? All we want is justice. And we also pray for the shooter as well, and hopefully he can sit down and reflect and pray for Mohamed as well," Yahia 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.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is warning residents about a staggering jump in Lyme disease cases across the state.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Lyme cases nearly quadruple in Michigan

Cases have quadrupled over the past several years, rising from just over 550 to more than 2,000 this past year. Health officials attribute the exploding blacklegged tick populations in southeastern Michigan to a historically warm and wet start to the year.

PREVIOUS REPORT: As tick-borne illnesses rise, Michigan urges residents to protect themselves As tick-borne illnesses rise, Michigan urges residents to protect themselves

The department has already received more than 200 tick submissions this year from concerned Michiganders. Officials say ticks prefer wooded, moist areas with tall grass and encourage people to avoid going off trails or into areas with heavy foliage.

Lyme Risk Map2020 by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit

Annette Jackson caught Lyme disease more than a decade ago after a blacklegged tick bit her near a river at a park. She developed a big, red bullseye on her arm but was not diagnosed for several years.

"It just came on suddenly. All of these different psychiatric symptoms with dizziness," Jackson said. "My life has changed dramatically. Its an everyday battle."

Jackson said the exploding tick populations scare her.

"It makes me sad because it can affect children," Jackson said.

Kim Cooney, a Michigan Lyme Disease Association board trustee, discovered she had the disease in college when she was suddenly struck by fatigue and pain. She now helps fund research and tick testing.

"Its awful. Its debilitating," Cooney said. "Theyre so tiny that most people dont see them anyway. Little bug, big problem."

Patients living with the chronic disease recommend checking yourself for ticks, especially around the hairline, after spending time in nature. They also suggest using available sprays to keep the bugs away.

"And for the doctors and scientists, were looking to you for help. Come up with a cure. We deserve to be here, too. We deserve to live too," Jackson 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.

A Roseville family is seeking answers after dealing with overgrown vegetation, hazardous trees and poison ivy that they say is spreading into their yard from an adjacent city-owned property.

Watch Peter Maxwell's video report: Roseville family battles city over overgrown brush and poison ivy

Katelyn and Rick Alexander moved to their home in 2020. For nearly five years, they have complained to the city about the city-owned property next door.

"All I am asking is for them to take care of the problem that they started," Katelyn Alexander said.

The couple said the thick brush and poison ivy have been creeping into their yard for the last three years.

"Two of my family members got poison ivy just last summer because of all of this creeping over," Katelyn Alexander said.

"I've gotten it myself three years in a row," Rick Alexander said.

The Alexanders said city officials have previously visited the property and promised to resolve the issue.

"Multiple people from the city told me it was theirs," Rick Alexander said.

"I've had city workers come out saying, 'Yeah, that's our side, we'll take care of it,'" Katelyn Alexander said.

"They've come out here themselves, different people from the city, and looked at it and said, 'Oh yeah, we're going to take care of this, you're on the list. We'll come and take care of it,' and they never have," Rick Alexander said.

Feeling like their concerns fell through the cracks, Rick Alexander installed a sign in his front yard on Sunday to get the city's attention. The family also posted photos on social media from the previous summer showing the overgrown vegetation.

"The sign's obnoxious, and I hate to put it in my front yard, but I didn't have any other way to get their attention," Rick Alexander said.

To get answers and a hopeful resolution, I took the family's concerns to City Hall and spoke with Roseville Assistant City Manager Glenn Sexton. I learned that a property line dispute may be the reason for the delay.

"It's a little more complicated than the post on social media or the sign on the street. The property line does come at an odd angle where I can see there would be some confusion as to exactly where that property line is," Sexton said.

Sexton said the city will be taking a closer look at the property line to determine who is responsible for the overgrown brush.

"Our department of public services director has been communicating with them and has committed to working with them in clearing up this issue, and we will absolutely take care of anything that is on our property," Sexton said.

Rick Alexander said if the brush is on his property, he will take care of it, but he wishes he had known earlier, so it would not have been an issue.

"Now it's a property line dispute, which it never was. I would have taken it down if they said it was my responsibility," Rick Alexander said.

"I just wish that the city of Roseville would hold themselves to the same standard that they hold their residents," Katelyn Alexander 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.

The Arab American Civil Rights League in Dearborn is preparing to sue the U.S. government on behalf of Lebanese Americans whose properties were destroyed by Israeli airstrikes.

Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Dearborn group plans federal lawsuit over destroyed homes in Lebanon

A federal lawsuit is in the works on behalf of Lebanese Americans from Metro Detroit whose homes have been destroyed in Lebanon.

I attended a press conference held by the Arab American Civil Rights League in Dearborn today, where the civil rights organization announced plans to file a lawsuit against the U.S. government, alleging loss of property and protected rights.

Speakers at the press conference told me their loved ones were victims of airstrikes by the Israeli military, which has continued to receive support from the American government.

Two of my parents' buildings in Bint Jebail were destroyed. Both of my grandfathers' houses were destroyed. This is not abstract. This is not political rhetoric, Nasser Beydoun, ACRL chairman, said.

ACRL Founder Nabih Ayad said case law supports the government being held accountable for using tax dollars to support the eventual destruction of Americans' homes in Lebanon as part of a larger war.

We still believe in this country. You see, I have the flag up here above ACRL. America comes first in our nation as we understand it. We need to let them know and recognize in the court system, the judges know this very well that America comes first. We are going after you. Get ready, Ayad said.

Our home was gone. A bomb was dropped on it. It was reduced to rubble. My grandfathers home. My grandfather on both sides, Zeina Djurovski, of the ACRL, said.

The ACRL intends to establish a hotline where they will begin to document claims from anyone impacted. You can contact the organization at info@acrlmich.org.

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.

A Detroit homeowner is counting his blessings after a stolen truck crashed into his home just feet from where he was sleeping early Monday morning.

The stolen truck had burst into flames. Michigan State Police said a 15-year-old was behind the wheel.

Watch Darren Cunningham's video report below: Teen crashes into home, innocent driver; stolen truck catches fire

It happened at 5 a.m. at the corner of Outer Drive and Evergreen Road on the city's west side. MSP said a trooper had initiated a traffic stop, but the suspect sped away. He blew a red light and slammed into an innocent driver before careening into the house.

MSP troopers pulled the teen from the burning wreckage to render aid.

"I woke up instantly. It scared me," homeowner Warren Scott told 7 News Detroit.

Watch our extended interview with Warren Scott below: Man recalls aftermath of truck crashing into his home and innocent driver, sparking a fire

He was asleep just a few feet away in his living room recliner. For a few terrifying moments, he was trapped inside.

"Because it shifted my whole foundation, and so it kind of jammed the doors shut," Scott explained.

The impact jammed doors, cracked drywall and even shattered his toilet bowl. But Scott wasn't the only victim.

Mikai Jackson said, "Me and another guy ended up having to get her out the car."

Jackson said that innocent driver is his childs mother. His home surveillance footage shows the moment he ran to her aid. The 22-year-old victim had just dropped off their sons diaper bag and was heading to work when she was hit.

"So her legs, she wasnt able to walk. So ended up carrying her over to the sidewalk. So as of now, shes saying her legs are alright. Just back pain," Jackson explained.

Watch the surveillance video below: Surveillance video shows a teen running to help after a crash

Prior to the crash, Detroit police say the teen suspect had dropped off a gunshot wound victim at another location before being spotted by police.

"They should have better control of the kids. They should be watching them," Jackson said.

Scott said, "You pick up where things are broken, and you start to rebuild. That's all you can do. I mean, whats done is done."

Police said the teen was treated for minor injuries and released to his mother, pending a review by the prosecutor's office.

Construction is moving full speed ahead on what will soon be the largest urban equestrian center in the country, located in Detroit's Hope Village neighborhood.

Watch Carli Petrus's. video report: Detroit Horse Power builds nation's largest urban equestrian center

The nonprofit Detroit Horse Power is building the new $13 million facility at the corner of Fenkell and Linwood on the former site of a school that burned down. The 14-acre property will allow the organization to expand its free after-school and summer programs for city youth.

"No other city can dream of a 14-acre property, devoted to horses and youth opportunity right in the middle of a city," David Silver said.

Silver is the executive director of Detroit Horse Power. The nonprofit has spent more than a decade helping young people build confidence and emotional skills through hands-on experiences with horses.

PREVIOUS STORY: Plan moves forward for Detroit Horse Power to build urban equestrian center in Detroit Plan moves forward for Detroit Horse Power to build urban equestrian center in Detroit

Crews began installing geothermal wells on Monday, drilling roughly 550 feet underground. The wells will help regulate the building's temperature year-round and make the center as energy-efficient and sustainable as possible.

"That [is] going to further reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the building," Silver said. "Ultimately, what this is going to do is reduce our amount of utility bills, increase our financial sustainability, and allow us to put more of our non-profit resources into scaling up our free programming for Detroits kids."

The project is funded through donations and grants. For families involved in the program, the expansion means greater access. Danielle Harling has two children who currently enjoy the program.

"You can see the transformation day one," Harling said. "It is life-changing as a parent to watch your child come into this space not necessarily being able to show self-control at home, but when you have this large animal that you have to show self-control, and they can do it, thats amazing."

Harling noted the new facility will allow her 12-year-old to join the program as well.

"For us as a family, it means that my 12-year-old will be able to join the program. It means that the families in that community will be able to be in that program, all across Detroit will be able to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity become a regular event for them," Harling said.

The property, once left vacant, is now being reimagined as a hub for opportunity. Silver expects the project to be completed around the end of this year.

"Neighbors embraced welcoming horses to the communitys future, and as were making these investments in the neighborhood, including the environmental sustainability investments, were really excited to share these best practices, and wed really like to see more resources and opportunities come to Detroits neighborhoods because were really going on this journey together," Silver 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.

Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Secretary of the Department of Labor in Donald Trump's cabinet, is resigning, according to a message from White House communications director Steven Cheung.

Chavez-DeRemer "has done a phenomenal job in her role by protecting American workers, enacting fair labor practices, and helping Americans gain additional skills to improve their lives," Cheung wrote.

Chavez-DeRemer will be moving into the private sector, Cheung wrote.

She posted a statement on Monday afternoon:

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve in this historic Administration and work for the greatest President of my lifetime," it read in part. "At the Department of Labor, I am proud that we made significant progress in advancing President Trumps mission to bridge the gap between business and labor and always put the American worker first."

According to the Associated Press, Chavez-DeRemer's departure comes amid allegations that she had an affair with a subordinate in her office and consumed alcohol while working.

The New York Times recently reported Chavez-DeRemer and members of her family and staff were under investigation for sending personal requests to agency workers.

Keith Sonderling will now serve as acting secretary. A permanent replacement will have to be confirmed by the Senate.

Scripps News has reached out to the White House for additional comment.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.

Apple CEO Tim Cook plans to step down effective on September 1, 2026, the company announced in a press release on Monday.

Cook will become executive chairman of Apple's board. John Ternus, who is currently the company's senior vice president of hardware engineering, will take his place as CEO.

"It has been the greatest privilege of my life to be the CEO of Apple and to have been trusted to lead such an extraordinary company. I love Apple with all of my being, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with a team of such ingenious, innovative, creative, and deeply caring people who have been unwavering in their dedication to enriching the lives of our customers and creating the best products and services in the world," Cook said in the release.

RELATED STORY | iPhone privacy report: How to check which apps are tracking you and accessing your data

Cook, who joined Apple in 1998, became CEO in 2011 after company co-founder Steve Jobs resigned for health reasons.

He was CEO for major Apple product launches including the Apple Watch and AirPods and significantly grew the company's reach and revenue.

This is a developing story. Stay with Scripps News for continued updates.

Court filings obtained by Scripps News show the mass shooter accused of killing eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana over the weekend had previously been arrested for firing a gun.

Police arrested Shamar Elkins in 2019 after he told investigators he fired his handgun at least five times at a vehicle near Caddo Magnet High School. According to police, Elkins said he used a 9mm handgun to fire the shots after he said, the driver pulled a gun on him.

In 2015, Elkins received a citation for impaired driving.

During a press conference Monday, Shreveport police said they believed Sundays mass murder was the result of domestic violence. Elkins and his wife were going through a separation.

"This by far was probably one of the most challenging incidents that SPD has ever faced, Shreveport police chief Wayne Smith said at Mondays press conference.

Authorities said Elkins shot 10 people at two different homes on Sunday, killing eight children and wounding two women. One of the women was Elkins wife and the mother of some of the children. Elkins was also the father of seven of the children who were killed.

Police said another woman called 911 during the ordeal, saying she had been shot by her boyfriend. City officials called on the community to provide strength to the affected families.

Keep them lifted, and pray for them like youve never prayed before, city council member Tabatha Taylor said.

RELATED NEWS | 3 students shot along nightlife district near the University of Iowa, authorities say

Police ultimately shot and killed Elkins after he committed a carjacking and led police on a chase. They shot him about an hour after receiving the first 911 call from the first Shreveport home, police said.

Authorities said two people, an adult and a teen, escaped the shooting by exiting the home onto the rooftop.

Elkins worked for UPS at the time of his death.

We are deeply saddened by this tragic news, said Becca Hunnicutt, a spokesperson for the company.

The Army confirmed Elkins served in the Louisiana Army National Guard from 2013 to 2020.

In todays Health Alert, a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump could speed up access to experimental treatments for serious mental illness. It focuses on psychedelic drugs that some say could help when other treatments havent.

Ask Dr. Nandi: Trump signs executive order on psychedelics research for mental health

There are a few key parts to this executive order. First, it tells the Food and Drug Administration to prioritize certain psychedelic drugs that are already showing promise for serious mental illness. If a drug has Breakthrough Therapy status, it could qualify for special priority vouchers that help speed up the review process.

The order also directs the FDA and the Drug Enforcement Administration to create a pathway for some seriously ill patients to access investigational psychedelic drugs before theyre fully approved. That would be under the Right to Try Act, as long as basic standards are met.

Theres also a research push - about $50 million in federal funding to help support research and match state investments in studying these therapies.

The order also brings in the Department of Veterans Affairs. The goal is to increase participation in clinical trials, especially for veterans dealing with severe mental health conditions.

Finally, after Phase 3 trials, the Attorney General would begin review so they can move forward more quickly if approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

One of the drugs getting a lot of attention is ibogaine. What should people know about it?

Ibogaine is a powerful psychedelic compound that comes from the root bark of the iboga plant found in Africa. Early research suggests it may help with opioid addiction, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, especially in people who havent found relief with other treatments.

Some studies show it may reset certain brain pathways, potentially improving mood. Thats why theres interest, particularly among military veterans dealing with trauma.

But there are real concerns. Ibogaine is currently classified as a Schedule I drug, meaning its considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in the U.S. right now.

It can also be dangerous. Were talking about risks like serious heart rhythm problems, vomiting, and in some cases, deaths have been reported. Its not always clear if the drug alone caused those outcomes, or if underlying health issues were the main cause.

Thats why clinical trials and careful oversight are so important. If this research holds up, it could open the door to new hope for people who are struggling. But it has to be done the right way - with strong science and patient safety front and center.

A second round of talks between Israel and Lebanon are expected in Washington on Thursday, U.S. and Israeli sources confirm to Scripps News, as negotiators work to maintain a fragile truce between the nations and explore possibilities of normalizing relations.

The talks will take place at the ambassador-level at the State Department, according to a Department official, mirroring the format to the first round of historic negotiations that took place there on Apr. 14, which the official described as productive.

We will continue to organize direct and good-faith negotiations between the two governments, the official added.

The source would not say which American officials are expected to participate in Thursdays meeting. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michael Issa and Counselor to the State Department Mike Needham all participated in the first round of talks, and U.S Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz was also present for a photo opportunity before they kicked off.

An Israeli official familiar with the situation confirmed Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Leiter would represent his nation in the conversation. In a statement posted to social media, the Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said Lebanon would be represented by its former Ambassador to the U.S. Simon Karam, adding that no one from Lebanon will participate in this mission or replace him.

The current Lebanese Ambassador to the U.S. Nada Hamadeh represented her nation in the earlier round. It was unclear why she was not set to participate Thursday.

RELATED NEWS | US hosts rare talks between Israel and Lebanon, but a ceasefire remains elusive

The talks earlier in April represented the first such direct negotiations between senior Israeli and Lebanese officials in more than 30 years, and helped lead to the announcement of a 10-day ceasefire between the nations. In remarks to reporters following the meeting, Leiter suggested the countries were on the same side, united against Hezbollah, though he stressed Israel would continue to go after targets that threaten Israeli security.

Hezbollahs leaders, for their part, have rejected the ceasefire agreement as an insult to our country and a slippery slope with no end in sight. Theyve taken particular issue with Israeli military officials maintaining a presence in Lebanon.

Israeli and Hezbollah fighters have continued to exchange fire after the ceasefire took effect. The IDF as recently as Monday afternoon confirmed a strike on Hezbollah, claiming officials eliminated terrorists who violated the ceasefire understandings in Southern Lebanon and approached the troops, posing an imminent threat.

Despite the apartment ceasefire violations on both sides, Israeli and Lebanese leaders claim the truce remains in effect.

In his Monday statement, Aoun said Thursday's talks were intended to halt hostile actions, end the Israeli occupation of southern areas, and deploy the army up to the internationally recognized southern borders.

The upcoming negotiations are separate from any other negotiations because Lebanon faces two options: either the continuation of the war with all its humanitarian, social, economic, and sovereignty repercussions, or negotiation to put an end to this war and achieve sustainable stability, and I have chosen negotiation, and I am full of hope that we will be able to save Lebanon, he concluded.

Republican lawmakers have requested information from several federal agencies about reports of scientists and other personnel connected to sensitive U.S. research who have died or gone missing in recent years.

In letters sent Monday, Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer and Rep. Eric Burlison requested briefings from the Department of Energy, Department of Defense, the FBI and NASA.

The lawmakers cited unconfirmed public reports alleging that at least 10 individuals with ties to U.S. nuclear secrets or rocket technology have died or mysteriously vanished.

"These reports allege that at least ten individuals who had a connection to U.S. nuclear secrets or rocket technology, have died or mysteriously vanished in recent years," the lawmakers stated. "If the reports are accurate, these deaths and disappearances may represent a grave threat to U.S. national security and to U.S. personnel with access to scientific secrets."

One of the cases that Scripps News has reported on involved retired Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland. The 68-year-old was last seen in February at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

McCasland previously commanded the Phillips Research Site of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Kirtland Air Force Base.

"Others who are missing or deceased include individuals affiliated with NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a pharmaceutical researcher and a government contractor tied to a nuclear weapons facility."

The lawmakers did not confirm or allege that the cases are linked, but said the reports raise concerns that warrant further review.

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and other organizations are partnering for the Riverfront Fish Fest in Detroit in May.

The festival is a free program that will teach kids how to fish along the Detroit River, and provide an opportunity for them to learn all about sturgeon.

The conservancy is partnering with the Michigan DNR, Rivertown Detroit Association, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

Kids can meet a live sturgeon and learn about their life and conservation efforts. The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center will also be releasing two sturgeon into the Detroit River at 1 p.m., and a final sturgeon release after the event is over.

Guests will be able to use loaner fishing poles with bait provided to fish in the river, and see what they catch.

There will also be giveaways, arts and crafts, learning activities, food trucks and more. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 2. You can register here.

Iran is vowing retaliation after U.S. Marines seized one of its ships near the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. military released a video on Sunday showing a U.S. destroyer firing several times at a 900-foot Iranian cargo vessel during the operation.

How the US seized an Iranian cargo ship

President Donald Trump said the ship was attempting to bypass a U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and ignored multiple warnings.

The incident comes as a ceasefire between the United States and Iran is set to expire this week. Trump told Bloomberg News it is highly unlikely he will extend the ceasefire.

RELATED NEWS | Iran fires on tanker as it reimposes Strait of Hormuz restrictions

The United States is pushing for a long-term agreement that would require Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions. Details could be fleshed out during a potential second round of peace talks in Pakistan, though Iran has not formally agreed to participate. A U.S. delegation is expected to include Vice President JD Vance, envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Over the weekend, Trump warned that if Iran rejects the U.S. proposal, Washington would knock out every single power plant and every single bridge in Iran.

Irans Foreign Ministry said Monday it has no current plans for another round of talks, though it did not explicitly rule out future negotiations. Irans president also said the country would not submit to force, underscoring deep mistrust of the United States.

Singer D4vd has been charged with murder in the death of a 14-year-old girl whose dismembered and decomposed body was found in September in his apparently abandoned Tesla, prosecutors said. Friday.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office said the 21-year-old D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke, was charged with first-degree murder; lewd and lascivious acts with an individual under 14; and mutilating a body in the killing of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. She was reported missing by her family in 2024, when she was 13. Authorities say she was 14 when she died.

The murder charges included special circumstances lying in wait, committing crime for financial gain and murdering the witness in an investigation that could carry the death penalty. Prosecutors haven't announced whether they will seek it.

Attorneys for the Houston-born alt-pop singer said he was innocent in a statement released after homicide detectives arrested him on Thursday at a home in Hollywood.

"Let us be clear the actual evidence in this case will show that David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez and he was not the cause of her death," the lawyers said.

The long-dead body of Rivas Hernandez was found inside a Tesla that was towed from the Hollywood Hills on Sept. 8, a day after she would have turned 15. Her family had reported her missing from her hometown of Lake Elsinore, about 70 miles (112 kilometers) southeast of Los Angeles.

RELATED STORY | Teen girl's body found in impounded car registered to the singer d4vd

Authorities did not publicly name Burke as a suspect until his arrest. And his lawyers' statement last week, in which said they "will vigorously defend David's innocence," was the first time they weighed in publicly.

The singer had been under investigation by an LA County grand jury looking into the death. The probe was officially secret, but its existence and his designation as its target was revealed in February when his mother, father and brother objected in a Texas court to subpoenas demanding they testify.

The 2023 Tesla Model Y was registered in the singer's name at the Texas address of his subpoenaed family members, according to court filings from prosecutors. It had been towed from an upscale Hollywood Hills neighborhood where it had been sitting as though it was abandoned.

Police investigators searching the Tesla in a tow yard found a cadaver bag "covered with insects and a strong odor of decay," court documents said. Detectives partially unzipped a bag and found a head and torso.

Investigators from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office removed the bag and "discovered the arms and legs had been severed from the body," according to court documents. A second black bag was found under the first, and dismembered body parts were inside it. No cause of death has been publicly revealed, and police got a judge to block the release details of the autopsy. On Friday, the medical examiner told The Associated Press the court order remained in place after Burke's arrest, and suggested to ask the police whether they would ask to lift it.

The family of Rivas Hernandez has remained private and has not made any public statements on her death or the case.

D4vd, pronounced "David," gained popularity among Gen Z for his blend of indie rock, R&B and lo-fi pop. He went viral on TikTok in 2022 with the hit "Romantic Homicide," which peaked at No. 4 on Billboard's Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart. He then signed with Darkroom and Interscope Records and released his debut EP "Petals to Thorns" and a follow-up, "The Lost Petals," in 2023.

When the body was discovered, the singer continued his North American tour, but when reports of his possible involvement spread widely, he canceled the final two shows and a European tour that was to follow.