Drivers in Commerce Township say a busy roundabout funnels traffic onto busy Pontiac Trail Road from M-5, causing frequent crashes and heavy congestion, prompting calls for change.
Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Traffic light planned for busy Commerce Township intersection
The roundabout sees 100,000 daily drivers, creating what residents describe as cramped and crowded conditions that lead to accidents.
"Traffic is already heavy coming off of M-5," said Audrey Ruker, a local resident.
Nick Kasmikha, another resident, said the intersection is confusing and accident-prone.
"There's always a lot of accidents, especially if you're coming this way," Kasmikha said. "I try to avoid all of that, because it's just a very, very dangerous intersection."
The roadway's most recent victim was an 87-year-old man who collided with the trailer of a semi truck turning eastbound from the Commerce Township Walmart Supercenter parking lot. The man was treated for minor injuries after being pinned inside his vehicle until he was safely pulled out. The semi-truck driver was also okay and was issued a ticket following the Tuesday morning crash.
The Oakland County Road Commission says the Walnut Lake and Pontiac Trail intersection is both busy enough and sees enough collisions to require a traffic signal. Because of nearby commercial and residential development being built, they now have the funding needed to make the change happen.
"I think the traffic light would be a good thing because it would be able to control the traffic," Ruker said.
While residents support the commercial and residential growth in Commerce Township, they hope the stoplight installation will help regulate the rising number of drivers and result in fewer citations and more patience on the roads.
"Be able to cross the road without any issues," said Fred Sitto, a resident.
Ruker believes the change could have life-saving benefits.
"Probably save some lives," she said.
The Road Commission says the stoplight will be installed at the Walnut Lake and Pontiac Trail intersection sometime in 2026.
-
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.
Strong winds from a winter storm created a somewhat rare weather phenomenon on Lake Erie this week, pushing water eastward and exposing miles of lake bed along western shorelines in Michigan and Ohio.
Watch Brett Kast's video report: Lake Erie seiche exposes hidden treasures and decades-old stories
The seiche, pronounced "say-sh," occurred on Monday as cold air and low pressure moved quickly into Southeast Michigan. The powerful winds essentially pushed water from the western end of the lake to the eastern end, revealing underwater secrets that had been hidden for decades.
Austin Lada and his friends in Luna Pier knew the approaching storm system might create the perfect conditions for a seiche. They organized a group to meet at the beach when winds would be strongest.
"We knew this system was coming through; we had heard about the bomb cyclone," Lada said.
The group has witnessed seiches before, but this event was extraordinary.
"Yeah, this was otherworldly to see the water out that far," Lada said. "We didn't think this seiche was going to go this far out, and we would be able to walk that far out.
Lada estimates the group walked roughly a quarter mile from the normal shoreline, uncovering remarkable finds along the exposed lake bed in what would normally be 10-12 feet of water. Among the discoveries was a car axle from a Volkswagen that Lada says fell through the ice in 1969.
We have local accounts that that went down in 1969 when it was on the ice pulling people around on some skis, said Lada. "Word travels fast. We're a small community, and a lot of folks who are here have been here their whole lives.
The group also found an unidentified class ring that Lada said appears to have been underwater for more than six decades.
"We're going to get that cleaned up and see if we can't find out some more," said Lada. "What a story that would make if we could find the rightful owner of that."
Another discovery was a snowmobile covered in zebra mussels.
The owner had fallen through the ice two years ago, and his friend was also searching for it during the seiche. The friend, CJ Witfoth, successfully retrieved the snowmobile and plans to try and have it restored.
The phenomenon extended from Monroe to Maumee Bay State Park in Ohio. Dozens of people who saw photos of the event online ventured to beaches to witness it firsthand.
Scarlett Hill, visiting from South Carolina, described the experience as remarkable.
"Amazing, something I ain't never seen before. Being from South Carolina, we don't get to see this often," Hill said.
By Tuesday, water levels had returned to normal at Luna Pier Beach. However, those who experienced the seiche firsthand discovered items and stories they will share for years to come.
"It was a fun day, quite windy and cold but well worth it," Lada 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.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., an actor who made frequent memorable appearances on the HBO series The Wire and Veep and in the films of Spike Lee, died Tuesday. He was 71.
Whitlock's manager Brian Liebman told The Associated Press in an email that the actor died in New York after a short illness.
Whitlock played openly corrupt city councilman Clay Davis on 25 episodes across the five seasons of The Wire.
Davis, a fan-favorite character, was known for his profane catchphrase sheee-it" delivered by Whitlock in moments of triumph and blunt honesty. The actor first used the phrase in his first film with Lee, 2002's The 25th Hour.
The Wire creator David Simon posted a photo of Whitlock on Bluesky in tribute.
Whitlock is the second significant star of the show to die in recent weeks after the death of actor James Ransone.
A native of South Bend, Indiana, Whitlock went to Southwest Minnesota State University, where he played football and studied theater. Injuries pushed him to study acting, and he moved to San Francisco to work in theater.
He began appearing in small television guest roles on shows including Cagney and Lacy in the late 1980s, and he had very small roles in the 1990 films Goodfellas and Gremlins 2: The New Batch."
He went on to appear in five of Lee's films, including She Hate Me, Red Hook Summer, Chi-Raq, BlacKkKlansman and Da 5 Bloods.
He played Secretary of Defense George Maddox for three seasons on the political satire Veep. The character ran against Julia Louis-Dreyfus ' Selina Meyer in presidential primaries.
Authorities in Texas say they've discovered a body during their search for 19-year-old Camila Mendoza Olmos, who has been missing since Christmas Eve.
Speaking during a press conference Tuesday night, Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said it's "too early to tell" whether the body belongs to Olmos. He added that investigators do not suspect foul play but are not ruling out the possibility of self-harm.
"As you all know, one of the possibilities that we were working under was the fear of self-harm and at this point there are some indicators that the body that we found may be as a result of that," Salazar said. "Obviously, the medical examiner will have to make definitive identification and will have to provide positive manner of death, but as of now we're processing the scene and we hope to have more information to release as soon as we're able."
Salazar said that the body was found in an area "a few hundred yards" from Olmos' residence. He added that a firearm was also found in the area but it remains unclear whether that weapon was the same one recently reported missing by family members.
Olmos was last seen next to her car outside her family's home the morning of Christmas Eve. Authorities conducted multiple searches with ground teams, drones and cadaver dogs but have yet to say whether they've found her.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security also joined the search effort, as well as a team of about 60 or 70 volunteers who helped search near her home earlier this week.
Authorities have noted that cases involving people of Olmos' demographic often resolve quickly when individuals return home after disputes with family or relationship issues. However, Salazar said this case is different.
"Quite frequently, there are people within the same demographic as Camila, young, between the ages of 15 to 25. And we're used to people coming back in a very short time frame," he said. "They get mad at mom and dad, they break up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, and then they leave, and then very shortly, they come back."
"In this instance, that's not what has occurred, and at present, there's very few physical clues to go on," Salazar said. "In other words, it's almost as if she just up and disappeared without a trace to this point, but we're going to continue to investigate any and all leads."
Investigators have also said they are not ruling out kidnapping or human trafficking, though Salazar pointed out that Olmos may have also left on her own.
With 2026 approaching, law enforcement agencies across the country are preparing to help Americans ring in the new year safely.
In New York City, officials say thousands of officers will be stationed in Times Square and surrounding areas.
"We will have plainclothes, K-9 teams, officers on horseback, on our trains, subway stations, and in helicopters, and on boats," said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. "Security is everyone's responsibility. Again, see something, say something, do something."
In New Orleans, National Guard members were deployed Tuesday ahead of New Years celebrations one year after an attack on Bourbon Street killed 14 people.
"It appears that we're going to have close to 800 law enforcement downtown in the French Quarter," said Collin Arnold, director of the New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.
"You're going to see an incredible visual presence in the French Quarter and throughout downtown," he added.
The tightened security comes two weeks after the FBI foiled an alleged plot to bomb targets in Southern California on New Years Eve.
"These bombs were to blow up at the same time on midnight this New Year's Eve," said Akil Davis, FBI assistant director in charge.
Authorities urge those attending public events to have fun but remain aware of their surroundings.
"Know the area," said security expert Gene Petrino. "Know how to get out of the area and trust your gut if something doesn't feel right. Just leave if you know, no celebration's worth it. If you feel like something's not good, you should just trust that gut instinct."
As of now, there are no known threats to holiday celebrations. But security experts told Scripps News that any large crowd can be a potential target. They advise attendees to remain vigilant, and if something looks out of place, alert law enforcement.
"Seeing the kids happy makes it worthwhile and fun, and I look forward to it every year," Melissa Andrade said.
Andrade, assistant to the city manager, has been organizing this event for the past 8 years. The event is from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and includes two countdowns, one at 9 p.m. and another at midnight.
"Usually, we have the ladder truck from Farmington Public Safety, and we hoist a ball up there. At midnight, we lower the ball and have a countdown with the community. It's really cool because people surround the whole entire rink for the midnight ball drop," Andrade said.
Detroit Zoo's Zoo Year's Eve Countdown
For families looking to celebrate early, the Detroit Zoo is ringing in the new year with a special tradition at their Field of Lights.
"We do the Zoo Year's Eve Countdown, where right around 8 o'clock or 7:59 p.m. to be exact, we begin the countdown, and when the clock strikes 8 p.m., we will ring in the new year with animal noises and sounds and a light show display," Emily O'Hara said.
O'Hara, Senior Director of Guest Experience, said the event is part of their annual holiday light show, known as Wild Lights, where families can enjoy 500 different light displays now through January 4.
The event starts at 5 p.m., and the countdown begins at 7:59 p.m.
The city of Mount Clemens is also hosting their annual New Year's Eve Kids Bash at the Discovery Center of Macomb from 4 to 9 p.m., featuring hands-on activities for kids and families at no cost.
"We have our cave wall open, kids can pretend they're a caveman and paint on the cave wall, face painting. There will also be a balloon artist; these people are very good at what they do," Monika Rittner said.
Rittner, the center's founder, said the community will come together afterward in downtown Mount Clemens for a countdown and fireworks show at 9 p.m.
"We welcome everyone to come down. Kids of all ages can participate and have a great time," Rittner said.
December 31, 3:00-6:00 p.m. Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road, TroyThis 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.
President Donald Trump's administration announced on Tuesday that its freezing child care funds to Minnesota after a series of fraud schemes in recent years.
Acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Jim ONeill announced on the social platform X that the step is in response to blatant fraud that appears to be rampant in Minnesota and across the country.
We have turned off the money spigot and we are finding the fraud, he said.
ONeill said all payments through the Administration for Children and Families, an agency within the U.S. Health and Human Services Department, will require justification and a receipt or photo evidence before money is sent. They have also launched a fraud-reporting hotline and email address, he said.
The announcement comes after years of investigation that began with the $300 million scheme at the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, for which 57 defendants in Minnesota have been convicted. Prosecutors said the organization was at the center of the countrys largest COVID-19-related fraud scam, when defendants exploited a state-run, federally funded program intended to provide food for children.
Federal fraud raids in Minnesota largely target Somali American suspects
A federal prosecutor alleged earlier in December that half or more of the roughly $18 billion in federal funds that supported 14 programs in Minnesota since 2018 may have been stolen. Most of the defendants are Somali Americans, they said.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the 2024 Democratic vice presidential nominee, has said fraud will not be tolerated and his administration will continue to work with federal partners to ensure fraud is stopped and fraudsters are caught.
Walz has said an audit due by late January should give a better picture of the extent of the fraud. He said his administration is taking aggressive action to prevent additional fraud. He has long defended how his administration responded.
Minnesotas most prominent Somali American, Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, has urged people not to blame an entire community for the actions of a relative few.
Allen Park officials are proposing to transform the former site of Allen Park Digital Cinemas into a $5 million park and plaza, breathing new life into the downtown area.
Watch Demetrios Sanders' video report: Allen Park officials propose $5 million park and plaza for former theater site
The longtime movie theater near Allen Road was demolished in 2023, after the city purchased the property for $1 in 2019. Since then, the city has made improvements to the space.
PREVIOUS STORY: Allen Park theatre set to close today Allen Park theatre set to close today
"We planted grass seed, fixed the wall that you may see there, and recently we put a mural on the side of that wall with intent to one day make this a public space," said Tom Murray, Allen Park city administrator.
Murray said a committee has been working with architects on concept plans for a plaza and park. One plan would include amenities like a raised stage, a public lawn, and an event center.
"To have concerts in the park, to maybe one day have an ice festival in the winter, or Santa Claus in the winter," Murray said. "And when we're not having functions, for the residents or anyone in the public to just enjoy, to sit down, maybe have a lunch."
The proposal is generating excitement among local business owners who see potential for increased foot traffic.
"As a business owner and a resident, we're very excited for it," said Todd Buchanan, co-owner of Custard on the Avenue. "When he heard about something happening, we wanted to make sure we were in this area. Because we know how much business it'll bring."
Mark Bailey, owner of McNally's Shoes, also supports the plan.
"It sounds like a good proposal as opposed to looking at an empty lot," Bailey said.
Murray said the city visited other communities that have implemented similar projects successfully. On January 6, a study session will be held with Allen Park City Council and residents to discuss the proposal.
"Is this how they would like to see it, is there any changes that need in it, we need their buy in as well because this is going to cost upwards of about $5 million," Murray said.
If talks progress, Murray said they will ask the Downtown Development Authority for potential funding, with the city making up the rest. If the project receives approval, Murray hopes to see construction begin next 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.
After eight months of repairs following severe storm damage, the Rolladium Family Fun Center in Waterford welcomed back eager customers Tuesday, for the first time since April.
Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Waterford's beloved Rolladium reopens after devastating storm damage
PREVIOUS REPORT: Roof of Rolladium in Waterford Township sustains major damage after strong winds Roof of Rolladium in Waterford Township sustains major damage after strong winds
"The initial noise that my mom heard was like, 'what's that?' and she walked over to right there and said she literally watched it open up," said Tony Anselmi, the former general manager whose grandfather built the facility 75 years ago.
The storm left the famous skating floor covered in water, requiring extensive renovations including refurbished flooring, new carpeting, replaced technology, and a complete roof reconstruction. Insurance delays stretched the repair process to eight stressful months for the Anselmi family.
Terry Anselmi, Tony's mother and current owner, has been the driving force behind keeping the community staple alive. The stress of the situation even landed her in the hospital during the lengthy repair process.
"You cannotyou can't put...it doesn't even come to words," Tony said about the stress his family has endured.
On Tuesday, their perseverance paid off as the doors officially reopened to gleeful customers.
"I literally was like one of the first ones in the door," said Kevin Riley, a Waterford resident. Ive been coming here for 15 years at least...It's like a second home for me.
FULL INTERVIEW: Kevin Riley talks about Rolladium reopening FULL INTERVIEW: Kevin Riley talks about Rolladium reopening
Liberty Franklin, another local resident, expressed her excitement about the reopening as she attended with her family on Tuesday.
"It feels super exciting because I haven't been here in so long," she said.
The Anselmi family has turned their biggest challenge into a celebration, creating new t-shirts commemorating the roof incident that temporarily closed their doors, which state: "We skated so hard we blew the roof off."
"When it went down like it did, it was devastating to the whole community, the skating community, everybody around here. We're just super happy to have it back," Riley added.
The Rolladium will be open this Friday and Saturday, with additional times and dates available on their Facebook page.
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.
On a night meant for celebration, one decision can change everything. For families who've lost loved ones to drunk driving, New Year's Eve isn't a party it's a painful reminder of why safety advocates are begging drivers to plan a ride home before they celebrate.
Watch Meghan Daniels' video report: Police urge safe rides home as New Year's Eve approaches
"I still wait, you know, for that sliding glass door we have in our kitchen to open and hear Mia," said Denny Howard, father of a drunk driving victim.
On a night built for countdowns and champagne, police say the most important plan isn't what you're wearing it's how you're getting home. Because for some families, New Year's Eve comes with a memory they can't escape.
"Together we've done this job 66 years, and a year hasn't gone by we haven't seen a drunk driving death," said Chief Chris Egan of the Melvindale Police Department.
Denny Howard is a father to a 17-year-old girl named Mia. He recalls the day that changed his life forever.
"I got a phone call from my brother saying that Mia and Faith Faith is my niece they were going to buy their or pick up their homecoming dresses. Said they got in an accident," Howard said.
He says, at first, it didn't sound serious until the next call.
"My brother called me in a panic, and he didn't realize how severe the accident was until he got to the accident," Howard said.
Then came the moment no parent is ever ready for.
"I will never forget the police officer who walked over to me, put his hands on my shoulders, and he had tears in his eyes, and I knew at that point that she was gone," Howard said.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, every day about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes that's one person every 42 minutes.
Assistant Chief Darryl Campbell for Melvindale Police says that kind of heartbreak is exactly what they're trying to prevent, especially on nights like New Year's Eve when judgment can slip.
"If you're gonna enjoy the holidays and you're gonna drink, please plan for your ride in advance," Campbell said.
Assistant Chief Campbell and Chief Egan say with options like AAA's 'Tow-to-Go' program and the Mike Morse Law Firm's free Uber voucher program 'Ride Free New Year's Eve,' there's absolutely no excuse to get behind the wheel impaired.
WEB EXTRA: AAA explains the Tow to Go program WEB EXTRA: AAA explains the Tow to Go program
"There are too many funerals and too many broken hearts. It's not worth the risk. There's no real way to know if someone's actually impaired unless you've been trained to look at it. So I say again, when in doubt, find another ride," Campbell 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 United States carried out a drone strike on a port near Venezuela, marking the first known U.S. attack on a target inside the country, according to several media organizations. The Trump administration, however, offered few details on the strike or what took place.
President Donald Trump on Monday suggested the strike hit a dock he believes is used to load drugs onto boats. He stopped short when pressed by reporters to confirm whether the facility was hit by the CIA or the military.
The strike comes after Trump has publicly threatened land-based attacks as part of his effort to stem the flow of drugs into the United States. It also follows the administrations increased pressure on Venezuelan President Nicols Maduro to step down.
"There was a major explosion in the dock area where they load the boats up with drugs," Trump said. "They load the boats up with drugs so we hit all the boats and now we hit the area. It's an implementation area. That's where they implement and that is no longer around."
This is the first publicly known strike on Venezuelan soil after months of U.S. operations targeting alleged drug trafficking boats in international waters.
On Tuesday, the Trump administration announced new sanctions, including measures against a Venezuelan company accused of aiding in Iranian drone sales. The move follows a series of sanctions targeting Venezuela, including Maduro and his relatives, and the seizure of vessels suspected of carrying sanctioned oil.
Michigan drivers will see changes at the gas pump starting January 1st when the state eliminates its 6% sales tax on gasoline and diesel fuel, replacing it with a higher per-gallon fuel tax to fund road and bridge projects.
Watch Peter Maxwell's video report: Michigan fuel tax increases 21 cents per gallon starting January 1st for road funding
The state fuel tax rate will increase from 31 cents per gallon to 52 cents per gallon a 21-cent increase. However, drivers should only see an increase of just over a penny per gallon at the pump due to the elimination of the sales tax.
"It's helping the overall consumer because the roads will be better and you're going to be paying about the same at the pump," said Jay Young, a gas and oil industry expert.
The tax revenue will go directly to future road and bridge projects across the state.
EXTENDED INTERVIEW: Gas and oil industry expert Jay Young on Michigan tax changes EXTENDED INTERVIEW: Gas and oil industry expert Jay Young on Michigan tax changes
Drivers had mixed reactions to the news of potential price increases at the pump.
"So they're taxing the taxpayer a little more? Of course they are," said Marquise Lee.
"Raising the prices wouldn't be good right now," said Maurice Knowles.
Gene Mansfield said his opinion depends on how the tax money is used.
"I mean, it just depends on what they would do with the taxes," Mansfield said.
Marie Wood supports the change as long as it actually improves Michigan's road conditions.
"It would be all right if they improved the road conditions here in Michigan," Wood said. "I've done had to replace my muffler two times because of the potholes, because they keep damaging it, and then flat tires and rims messed up, yeah. It would be alright as long as they fix the roads."
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.
After a quarter-century behind bars for a murder he was eventually found to be wrongfully convicted of, Desmond Ricks has been ordered to return more than a million dollars to the state. It's part of a Court of Appeals decision after a separate lawsuit paid him more than $7 million.
Watch Simon's report in the video player below
Man wrongfully convicted of murder ordered to return more than $1M to state
For roughly 25 years, Desmond Ricks was an inmate in state prison, where he always maintained his innocence for the crime of murder. But after being freed, Ricks was among those to receive funds, under the state's Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act, also known as WICA, roughly $50,000 a year for each year served.
One of his attorneys was Wolf Mueller.
Desmond Ricks endured the worst harm and suffering you can imagine," Mueller said. 25 years in a cage for a crime he didnt commit. The compensation under the state, a million and a quarter, doesnt come close to the harm he suffered.
The law requires that you pay back if a third party issues compensation. In the case of Desmond Ricks, it was the city of Detroit. Ricks sued to keep the WICA money, but the state court said he couldn't keep it.
State Senator Joe Bellino from Monroe said the matter is more complicated than simply paying out WICA funds and moving on.
To be specific, after the state's fund ran low years ago, he said it's been even more crucial to get money returned, in the event that Ricks and others, also wrongly convicted, sue file lawsuits against municipalities and police agencies and win.
This was a bipartisan bill. If it comes up again, well vote not to let him do that," Sen. Bellino said. "Theres no way in the world I would vote to let someone get that money, and then get 7.5 million or whatever he got. The state isnt a huge bucket to double-dip when there is a mistake made.
In this case, Ricks's additional lawsuit was against the City of Detroit and two officers, and accused them of falsifying evidence involving bullets back in 1992. With dozens of similar cases, Mueller said it's time for the WICA rules to be amended to allow former inmates to keep that money and any else they receive in a lawsuit.
No amount of money can make up for harm of a quarter century and your entire adult life lost, so to say 50K a year was paid is peanuts compared to the harm? Mueller said.
Ricks previously pointed out that he not only lost years of his life, but also the chance to see his two daughters grow up.
I also reached out to another attorney for Ricks for an interview; I'm still awaiting a response.
A swimmer who went missing after being attacked by a shark last week off the Northern California coast and whose body was found days later was identified as an open ocean swimmer from Pebble Beach.
Authorities recovered Erica Fox's body Saturday from the ocean south of Davenport Beach in Santa Cruz County, the sheriff's office said in a statement Monday.
Fox, 55, had been missing since going on a swim Dec. 21 in Monterey Bay with her husband and other members of the Kelp Krawlers, an open-water swimming club she co-founded.
"She didn't want to live in fear," her husband, Jean-Francois Vanreusel, told the Mercury News during a vigil Sunday, a day after her body was found. "She lived her life fully."
Vanreuse, who led the vigil to commemorate his wife of 30 years, said she was still wearing her white Garmin watch and a "shark band" was still attached to her ankle. The band is an electromagnetic device meant to ward off sharks. She was a triathlete who completed two Half Ironmans and numerous other triathlons.
Vanreusel didn't witness the attack on his wife but two people on shore did, the Mercury News reported. He told the newspaper she taught him how to swim, and like her, he came to love the ocean waters.
Experts say that shark attacks are exceedingly rare rarer than being struck by lightning or mauled by a bear.
Fox's death marks the second shark attack fatality at Lovers Point in 73 years. The first claimed a 17-year-old boy who was swimming there on Dec. 7, 1952, the Mercury News reported.
Still, members of her swimming club were shaken by her death since it was the second shark attack on a member of the group. In 2022, fellow club member Steve Bruemmer was attacked by a great white shark and was severely injured.
After his attack, many of the swimmers started wearing the same kind of electromagnetic "Sharkbanz" that Fox was wearing, even though most swimmers knew they would do little to deter a high-speed attack from below, the newspaper reported.
Bruemmer, who pledged never to swim in the ocean again, used walking sticks to join the vigil Sunday.
"I was also bitten by a shark," Bruemmer told the crowd, "and I can tell you that it doesn't hurt. I don't understand why, but it's not physically painful to be badly bitten. So I believe that in her final moments, Erica was not suffering in pain. And I hope that that can be of some comfort to people."
He paused and steadied himself on his walking sticks.
"There are also lessons, things we know that we're reminded of in moments like this," he said, "and one is that tomorrow is not guaranteed."
New research from StorageCafe shows Florida now leads the nation with more than 824,000 manufactured homes, accounting for about 8% of all housing statewide.
One of Floridas largest manufactured home builders is Jacobsen Homes in Safety Harbor, and Vice President Mike Wnek said he is working to change outdated perceptions of manufactured housing.
Its gotten better and better and better," he said. "And todays product anybody could be proud of, could love living in. Enjoy the comfort."
New manufactured homes average about $135,000, not including the cost of land. That is roughly one third of Floridas median home price.
Wnek said buyers can choose higher end finishes, energy efficient features and homes built to withstand severe weather.
Everyone one of our homes has stood up to every storm thats come to Florida. Every single one, he said.
Largo stands out nationally, with manufactured homes making up about 28% of the citys housing stock. That means roughly one in four homes in Largo is factory built.
I feel what I got was a lot better for the buck. I really do. I feel like what I got if Id have this in a house I dont know how much it would have cost me, Bender said.
Real estate experts say there are still factors buyers should consider. Realtors recommend avoiding manufactured homes near the coast and focusing on newer models built to modern standards. Owning the land beneath the home is also important for long term equity and appreciation, compared with renting a lot in a mobile home park.
This story was originally published by Erik Waxler with the
Tourists celebrating the new year in Hawaii could become the first to be taxed to address the consequences of climate change.
In Utah, people who party too heartily and get caught driving drunk could be among the first to have their driver's licenses striped red with the label: "No Alcohol Sale."
And motorists in Georgia could become the first to display their patriotism via the stylings of President Donald Trump with a special "America First" vehicle license plate.
The first of the year brings with it a variety of new state laws, including some that appear to contain first-of-their-kind policies, programs or procedures.
Here's a look at some of the new laws taking effect:
The first tourism tax for the earth
Many cities and states impose special taxes on hotel stays and vacation rentals. Hawaii will become the first state to hike its tourist lodging tax specifically to help cope with the effects of a changing climate.
State officials hope to use the proceeds from the additional 0.75% daily room rate tax for projects like replenishing sand on eroding beaches or removing invasive grasses similar to those that fueled a deadly wildfire on Maui in August 2023. Officials estimate the so-called "Green Fee" will generate nearly $100 million annually.
"As an island chain, Hawaii cannot wait for the next disaster to hit before taking action. We must build resiliency now," Democratic Gov. Josh Green said while signing the legislation earlier this past year.
`ID please' no matter your age
Utah's already strict alcohol laws are getting even stricter. As part of a new law intended to keep alcohol away from some people convicted of drunken driving, restaurants and bars will be required to check the identification of every customer, regardless of age, before serving or selling them alcohol.
People convicted of "extreme driving under the influence" defined as a blood alcohol content of at least 0.16% or one of several other factors must surrender their driver's licenses. Any replacement ID will bear a prominent red stripe on the front alongside the words, "No Alcohol Sale." Judges also will have the discretion to impose the restriction for lesser offenses, and anyone wanting to shun booze can voluntarily obtain a red-striped ID.
"While this isn't completely bulletproof in terms of ensuring that somebody that's alcohol-restricted isn't going to drink, it just makes it more difficult for them," said Republican state Rep. Steve Eliason, sponsor of the legislation.
State-branded insulin for sale
California is targeting high prescription drug prices by getting into the business itself. It will become the first state to sell affordable insulin under its own label.
The sales come nearly three years after Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a partnership with the nonprofit Civica to sell state-branded generic drugs at lower prices. The "CalRx" brand of insulin pens will be available at a recommended price of $11 per pen, or a maximum of $55 for a five-pack.
Newsom also signed legislation this past year that will require large health insurers to start capping insulin copayments at $35 per month.
Increases to the minimum wage
An annual inflationary adjustment will raise Washington's statewide minimum wage to $17.13 an hour, making it the first state to exceed the $17 threshold. Others aren't too far behind. The statewide minimum wage will rise to $16.94 an hour in Connecticut and $16.90 and California.
Some cities will have even higher minimum wages. The rate will rise to $21.30 an hour in Seattle and $21.65 in its suburb of Tukwila, Washington.
At least a dozen states will have minimum wages of $15 or more, including new rates set by voter-approved ballot measures in Missouri and Nebraska. By contrast, 20 other states still follow the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour.
New specialty vehicle license plates in Georgia will display an image of the American flag with the words "America First." The plate will cost $90 the first year and $55 to renew, compared to $20 yearly for a standard license plate.
The new license plate gives people an opportunity to "show your support for President Trump and his movement with every mile you drive," said Republican state Sen. Steve Gooch, who sponsored the legislation.
"No other state has passed it," Gooch said. But "I predict other states will copy our legislation next year."
Several other states also are introducing new patriotic license plates timed to the nation's 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Michigan will have a new red, white and blue license plate. South Carolina will have a liberty flag plate with the words, "Where the Revolutionary War Was Won." Pennsylvania got a head start on the celebration earlier this year, printing a "Let Freedom Ring" license plate featuring the Liberty Bell.
Meanwhile, in Colorado, a newly-passed house bill will require car insurance companies to include the replacement cost of a car seat or other restraint system in the vehicle at the time of a crash, according to the Scripps News Group station in Denver.
SNAP bans on sodas and more
Starting Thursday, Americans in five states who get government help paying for groceries will see new restrictions on soda, candy and other foods they can buy with those benefits.
Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia are the first of at least 18 states to enact waivers prohibiting the purchase of certain foods through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
Its part of a push by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to urge states to strip foods regarded as unhealthy from the $100 billion federal program -- long known as food stamps -- that serves 42 million Americans.
The efforts are aimed at reducing chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes associated with sweetened drinks and other treats, a key goal of Kennedys Make America Healthy Again effort.
If a family pays an application, deposit or wait list fee but is not enrolled in a childcare program within six months, the fee is now refundable in Colorado. Childcare programs may charge a deposit fee to secure a child's spot in the program, but it must go toward covering part of the child's program tuition, according to the Scripps News Group station in Denver.
Baby food safety will be strengthened with a ban on products containing toxic heavy metals like lead or arsenic that exceed FDA limits in Virginia. Manufacturers must test their products at least once monthly and post results online, according to the Scripps News Group station in Richmond.
Changes to gun laws
Gun show promoters in Colorado will now have to submit a security plan to area law enforcement. That plan must include liability insurance, security measures in place and the prohibition of anyone under 18 years old from entering the gun show without a guardian present, according to the Scripps News Group station in Denver.
A 16-year-old boy remains in intensive care at Corewell Health Hospital in Dearborn after being struck by a vehicle while helping a stranded motorist on Christmas Eve in Dearborn Heights.
Watch Randy Wimbley's video report: Teen in ICU after Christmas Eve crash while helping stranded driver
Alexander Johnson was picking up eggs for his grandmother around 5:30 p.m. when he stopped to help jumpstart another driver's car at the Van Born and John Daly intersection. Police say Johnson was connecting cables to the disabled vehicle when a suspect driver rear-ended them, pinning the teenager between his car and the vehicle he was helping.
"He's saying I just wanted to stop and help. I'm never going to stop and help ever again. Look what happened, but we always remind him you can't stop doing good things for people just because this happened," said Whitney Johnson, Alexander's mother.
The crash left Alexander with his leg broken in two places and no feeling from his knee down on his right leg. He has already undergone four surgeries and faces a fifth procedure soon. His recovery could take months or years.
"I honestly don't know how this could not be a case of distracted driving. My other son, my oldest boy, was on the scene. There were no skid marks on the road or anything like that. It doesn't even look like he attempted to stop," William Johnson said.
The Dearborn Heights Police Department says there's no suspicion that alcohol was a factor in the crash. Investigators have sent the case to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office for review and a charging decision.
The Johnson family expressed hope that the suspect driver will take responsibility for the incident.
WEB EXTRA: Whitney and William Johnson speak about their son's accident WEB EXTRA: Whitney and William Johnson speak about their son's accident
"I hope he gets wind of this and that person truly feels bad and truly has remorse for what he's done. Maybe he'll step up and tell the truth," William Johnson said.
Despite his injuries, Alexander has been apologizing to his family about the timing of the accident.
"He was even like, I ruined Christmas and he keeps apologizing to everybody. I'm like, what are you apologizing for? We're having Christmas the second he comes home. Tree is still up, presents are still there," Whitney Johnson said.
The family says they're grateful for the care Alexander is receiving at Corewell Health Hospital and the support from friends, family, and strangers during this difficult time. A GoFundMe fundraising campaign is underway to help cover medical bills.
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.
An Idaho-based company is recalling nearly 3,000 pounds of raw ground beef that may have been contaminated with E. coli bacteria.
The recall involves 16-ounce vacuum-sealed packages labeled Forward Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef. Affected packages were produced Dec. 16 and have a label telling customers to use or freeze the meat by Jan. 13. The affected beef also bears the establishment number EST 2083 on the side of its packaging.
The meat was produced by Heyburn, Idaho-based Mountain West Food Group and was shipped to distributors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Pennsylvania and Washington.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service, which announced the recall Saturday, didnt say which retailers may have sold the meat. The USDA and Mountain West Food Group didnt respond to messages left Tuesday by The Associated Press.
The USDA said there have been no confirmed reports of illness due to consumption of the meat. The issue was discovered in a sample of beef during routine testing.
The USDA said the type of E. coli found can cause illness within 28 days of exposure. Most infected people develop diarrhea, which is often bloody, and vomiting. Infection is usually diagnosed with a stool sample.
The USDA said customers who have purchased the affected products should either throw them away or return them to the place they were bought. The agency also advises all customers to consume ground beef only if it has been cooked to a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you're looking for a job heading into 2026, you can apply and get interviewed immediately this week as part of the Michigan Online Job Fair.
The job fair organized by the statewide virtual hiring initiative that aims to place more qualified candidates into jobs is happening today through Saturday, January 3. Roles companies are hiring for include skilled trades, education, transportation, customer service, logistics, and administrative roles.
Every year, people are told to wait until 2026 to apply for jobs, and that advice simply isnt true, said CJ Eason, President of Workforce Development with Job Fair Giant. Employers already know which roles they must fill immediately. Between December 30 and January 5, hiring managers are at work scheduling job interviews and discussing current job openings with potential candidates; the pressure to hire people before the year starts is dire for many local companies with big plans for growth and expansion in 2026. Budgets are finalized, and hiring decisions happen faster now. This is one of the strongest windows of the year to randomly call employers, interview, and get hired.
Featured employers at the job fair include EdTec Central, Stellantis, and Airlines Parking at Detroit Metro Airport.
Job seekers can register and get interviewed at this link. Interviewees can attend any of the following hiring sessions:
Tuesday, December 30, 2025 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM Wednesday, December 31, 2025 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM Thursday, January 1, 2026 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM Friday, January 2, 2026 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM Saturday, January 3, 2026 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM
For more information, call 734-956-4550 or email onlinejobfair@jobfairgiant.com
Login
