One suspect was wearing a mask while the other was hiding in the background as they rang the doorbell of the Murray family home in Rochester Hills. However, their attempt to conceal identities didnt stop them both from being caught in a matter of days.

Now, 37-year-old Carlos Hernandez and 39-year-old Joshua Zuazo, both from Dearborn, are facing charges for murder and unlawful imprisonment. They allegedly pretended to be DTE utility workers looking for gas leaks to gain access to the home in a planned robbery attempt.

Watch our previous report when Hernandez was charged in the video below: Man charged with murder after allegedly killing Rochester Hills man while posing as DTE worker

Austin Rogers' parents live near the home in the house he grew up in.

Definitely a relief for the street and also for the city and the entire area, Rogers said of the arrests, which he noted happened quicker than he expected. I was very surprised and very happy they were off the streets and very happy they were charged with what theyre charged with.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Video shows fake DTE workers accused of killing man, hurting wife in Rochester Hills Video shows fake DTE workers accused of killing man, hurting wife in Rochester Hills

In the attempted robbery, the two men are accused of killing the 72-year-old homeowner Hussein Murray. According to the prosecutor, Murrays wrists and legs were found duck taped. His 72-year-old wife was also duck taped upstairs as the suspects demanded she tell them where they kept the jewelry and cash. At one point, Hernandez allegedly hit her when she screamed.

Investigators believe the family was targeted because they owned a pawn shop and jewelry store in Hamtramck. They say there's no indication the Murray's knew the two suspects.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 'Its been like hell.' Family of Slain Rochester Hills man speaks out as suspects are arrested 'Its been like hell.' Family of Slain Rochester Hills Man speaks out

We believe it was not random, it was focused on this family, this house. For what reason? We think at this point, without different information, it was because they were small business owners," Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said. "We've seen that kind of targeting on jewelry stores and cash-driven businesses in the past, so that's our working thought at this point.

While Hernandez was arrested in Louisiana, Zuazo was arrested in Plymouth Township. Bouchard says getting the Ring doorbell video out to the public was crucial in tracking down the suspects.

WATCH: Scene video of man arrested in Louisiana after alleged murder in Rochester Hills (courtesy KTBS in Shreveport) WATCH: Scene video of man arrested in Louisiana after alleged murder in Rochester Hills (courtesy KTBS)

Those images really started bringing tips in because he was very recognizable even with the mask, Bouchard said. "We got some information and the breadcrumbs kind of led us to different addresses or houses or potential cars, and one thing led to another on both these folks.

Zuazo will appear in Rochester Hills court on Friday for his arraignment, which is scheduled for 1:15 pm.

It will be a busy weekend in the Motor City with record crowds expected for the Detroit Free Press Marathon on Sunday, which sold out for the first time before the deadline.

However, before the runners hit the starting line, race weekend begins with the expo inside Huntington Place where runners can visit vendors, shop for gear and check in for their race.

Both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris will be campaigning in metro Detroit on Friday, which is expected to create road blocks for runners as they prepare for the big race.

Cathryn Grant will be running the 26.2-mile race for the fourth time and was planning to come by the expo on Friday.

Its really cool. It's definitely a unique race. Over the bridge and through the tunnel, Grant said. "I'm a teacher, so I was planning on after school, getting down there before the rush and pick up my packet and then lay low on Saturday, get ready for the race. But, that plan has changed a little bit.

Suddenly, Huntington Place will be a bit busier Friday. Along with the Expo, the convention hall will also be hosting a campaign rally for former President Donald Trump. Doors for the rally open at 3 p.m., but the expo goes until 7 p.m. The expo has been been moved from Hall B to Hall A on the building's north side.

That's going to ensure that our participants coming down to the expo don't have to do the security checks that folks going to the political event need to do, Vice President and Race Director Aaron Velthoven said. "Our hope is our patrons will experience a minimal amount of disruptions on Friday.

Harris will be visiting Oakland County. Additional information has not yet been released.

Velthoven says this year will have a record number of runners and 50,000 people are expected at the expo over two days.

Because we have the international aspect of the course, all of our international runners must come in person and present their WHTI-compliant document, which is typically a passport or enhanced driver's license.

Related video: Scammers try to take advantage of runners after Detroit Free Press Marathon sells out Scammers try to take advantage of runners after Detroit Free Press Marathon sells out

Besides potential for traffic or road closures, Velthoven recommends people do not park on the Huntington rooftop parking deck Friday. While many runners normally park there, the deck will be briefly closed in the early afternoon. Then once it reopens, all vehicles must be checked by Secret Service.

The race expanded the expo hours on Saturday to accommodate more people, hoping the last-minute adjustments ensure race weekend runs smoothly.

Related: 2024 Detroit Free Press Marathon: Here are the road closures

We worked really hard to make sure it has minimal impact on Friday and I think we've accomplished that, Velthoven said. "The energy is going to be great and we're really excited.

The expo runs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday.

It was a busy day in Detroit on Tuesday for Vice President Kamala Harris as she stopped at two local businesses in the city.

Detroit vs. Everybody, I'm with that, Harris said to a crowd while holding a Detroit vs. Everybody T-shirt. "This is a town of people who have grit, who have determination and who have optimism and ambition.

Harris stopped by Cred Cafe on the east side, which hosted a watch party for a radio town hall that aired from Detroit with Harris and host Charlamagne tha God. After the show, Harris met with voters like retired Detroit Public Community Schools District teacher Justine Travick.

I like her tenacity, I like her strength and she does not back down from any questions, Travick said. "She's going to help education and the women's rights thats most important.

Before the town hall, Harris also made a stop at Norwest Gallery of Art, a locally owned business on the Northwest side.

For her to come to small businesses is just, you know, very sacred, very powerful," the gallery's founder and Director Asia Hamilton said. "I'm grateful for her being here.

The event at the gallery focused on Black men and entrepreneurs like small business owner Evan Fay.

"It was a fantastic event. She went into a ton of detail talking about her plan, Fay said. "I do think there are things unique to Black men that need to be talked and discussed. It's not a gimme vote, were not just gonna do whatever.

Related video: Tim Walz tackles Detroit growth, Middle East, economy & more in WXYZ 1-on-1 Tim Walz tackles Detroit growth, Middle East, economy & more in WXYZ 1-on-1

We're not a monolith," small business owner Christian Willliams said. "I've heard a lot of people say they don't feel there's a specific callout in her platform for us, so I think this really was able to show she took the time out to talk to the community, to hear the needs of the community.

Williams was another small business owner in attendance and says the economy is one of his key issues.

"She talked about her opportunity economy, talked about expanding tax credits for people with children, talked about increasing the small business deduction and also helping first-time, first-generation home buyers, Williams said.

Prior to the event, the Donald Trump campaign sent statements to 7 News Detroit in response to the Harris event.

Kamala Harris is making a last-minute attempt to win over Black men after years of failure. For four years, Black men and their communities have suffered under Kamalas economy and unchecked illegal immigration, while Democrats funneled billions to Ukraine. From day one, President Trump has listened to Black men and delivered real results. President Trump's economic policies offer opportunities to build generational & permanent wealth for Black families. If youre ready to break the cycle of being used as pawns by the Democratic Party, vote for President Trumpthe only candidate who has delivered real results for Black America. -Janiyah Thomas, Team Trump Black Media Director

I don't think the Black community is going to vote for him (Trump). I really don't, Travick said. "I think they know Kamala is for the people and for the Black people."

With just three weeks until the election, both candidates are increasing their stops to the Detroit area hoping to rally support in a key swing state that remains up for grabs.

You can definitely feel it when you're here, when you're driving around, that it can go either way, Fay said of the election. "I was with her. Shes by far who my family would love to see in the White House."

It's an important state. I'm a little bit nervous, but I'm glad to see shes been here a lot, Williams said. I was set on voting for her, but this really just sealed the deal.

Both candidates are back in metro Detroit campaigning again on Friday.

With three weeks to go until election day, more than 670,000 Michiganders have already cast their absentee ballot. That's roughly 31% of the more than 2 million absentee ballots requested this election.

Related:

Early voting begins soon in Detroit for Michigan's General Election; here's what to know WXYZ-TV's Michigan U.S. Senate debate between Rogers, Slotkin Walz rallies with UAW members, meets with Black men in Macomb County

There were plenty of moments to cheer inside Comerica Park in Detroit, but there was mostly silence leaving the ballpark as the Tigers fell to the Guardians Thursday night, forcing Game 5 of the AL Division Series in Cleveland.

"It was great, except they lost, fan Joyce Carson said leaving the game.

It was good, but it was sad at the end, fan Eric Lubanski said.

Before the game, downtown Detroit was buzzing with excitement as fans embrace October baseball.

You'd have to be a true Detroiter and a true Tigers fan to understand what this means to everybody," fan Carmon Weeks said.

Hear more from Weeks in the video player below: Fans fired up and pack Comerica Park for Detroit Tigers ALDS Game 4

Kelly Egan came from Cincinnati for this game. Her father Chuck Durnan, an avid Tigers fan, died in February. She brought a framed picture of her dad and a lanyard filled with his old tickets into the park with her.

It's brought me solace and I feel the closest to my dad when Im here, Egan said. "Since he can't be here, he's obviously here up there, I'm here for him representing.

Despite the final score, most fans didnt leave angry. The game was full of ups and downs and competitive baseball.

We have been here and watched a lot of Tigers not playing great baseball, so its really fun to watch them play great baseball and we're so happy to be here for it, Tigers fan Janessa Manning said.

Related video: Fans filled with emotion as Tigers win first home playoff game in over 10 years Fans filled with emotion as Tigers win first home playoff game in over 10 years

Now its win or go home for Game 5 on Saturday. Through hoarse voices, some fans are still confident this series belongs to Detroit

We're gonna win it in 5," a young fan screamed leaving the game.

Detroit was roaring for its first Tigers playoff game in 10 years, and despite a midday start time, fans were out in full force.

The win was a moment 10 years in the making, as fans and emotions came spilling out into the streets of Detroit after the game.

"I'm getting all emotional. Im gonna cry, Tigers fan and season ticket holder Sandra Sears said. I think this is even sweeter just because of where we came from. We've been in such a slump and everyone said 'have faith, have faith.'"

Longtime season ticket holders Hal and Lindsey Schwartz have been to many games, but say this one ranks close to the top.

I grew up going with him (dad), so its a great memory to be here," Lindsey Schwartz said.

"Winning today with Lindsey is terrific, Hal Schwartz said fighting back tears.

Hear more from the father-daughter duo in the video player below: Fans pack Comerica Park for first playoff baseball game in Detroit in 10 years

For 7-year-old Anna Harrison, it was her first Tigers playoff game. It was an experience she got to have with her mom Franchesca. With a half day of school, the two went downtown and ended up scoring last-minute tickets.

She was like 'mom, we gotta get in there' and I made it a mission where we got in there, Franchesca said. "We're just so lucky."

Hear more from Anna and Franchesca in the video player below: Tigers bring first playoff baseball win to Detroit in 10 years, fans pack Comerica Park

Even those without a ticket still made their way downtown, with some fans climbing the fence outside the park trying to get a look inside.

We walked around for a little bit, then we keep hearing the noise. So its like you know what? I got to see what's going on,'" Tigers fan Kaneisha Barnes said. The problem is we don't have a view of a scoreboard, but you can tell from the noise theyre having a good time.

Others flocked to downtown bars like Harrys Detroit Bar & Grill to take in the game. The bar had more staff on hand and saw a boost in sales as the normal 30- to 40-person lunch crowd became nearly 500 pregame.

We've really enjoyed this extra push that we got from the Tigers," Harry's general manager Hugh Leonard said. "With everything else going on between the concerts and the Red Wings starting tomorrow, its just an extra bonus.

Related video: 'Beyond excited!' Tigers fans pack Downtown Detroit for first playoff game in a decade 'Beyond excited!' Tigers fans pack downtown Detroit for first playoff game in a decade

A team once counted out is now in the midst of a magical run. Its a story of faith that fans and the city fully embrace.

It's important for these young kids that are playing right now, it's important for this old Tiger here, its important for this city, fan Karyn Brown said.

"It's been a long time for the fans," Sears said. "We've been fans through thick and thin.

Related:

Detroit Tigers fans set postseason game attendance record at Comerica Park Tigers blank Guardians in ALDS with clutch hitting and strong pitching, taking 2-1 series lead

It's been one year since Oct. 7, 2023, a day marked by pain and sadness for many across metro Detroit.

In the 12 months since, tensions have been high on college campuses like the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. At the Diag Monday, many Jewish student groups held a prayer vigil, honoring the hostages and remembering the hundreds of civilians killed in Hamas brutal attack on Israel.

Watch our previous coverage when police broke up an encampment on Michigan's campus below: Police raid pro-Palestinian encampment at University of Michigan Diag; 4 arrested

Nearby, pro-Palestinian student groups took to the streets protesting over the thousands of deaths from Israels bombardment of Gaza and now Lebanon. Campus police kept tight security near the Diag, and one Palestinian protester marching was arrested.

Police say protesters then surrounded the patrol car, which led to a clash with officers who used pepper spray. That person detained was soon released, and an investigation is underway.

All of this comes just hours after police in West Bloomfield responded to vandalism overnight at a home a university spokesperson confirmed belongs to Michigan President Santa Ono. The driveway, walkway and brick of the home had spray painted messages like "coward," "divest now," "complicit" and "intifada."

To whoever is doing this out there, you are not helping anyone. All you are doing is simply making Jews feel unsafe, University of Michigan Regent Jordan Acker said.

Acker's business in Southfield was also vandalized back in June. Protesters have been calling for months on the regents to divest from Israel, in some cases showing up at their homes.

We're elected officials we understand it is the job of elected officials to hear grievances from our constituents," Acker said. "But this is not that. This is targeted harassment and its criminal.

Around the same time, the Jewish Federation of Detroit was also vandalized in Bloomfield Township. The FBI confirms they were in West Bloomfield and Bloomfield Township Monday as local police investigate.

Hear more about the vandalism in Bloomfield Township in the video player below: Jewish, Arab American communities reflect on one year of war amid rising hate

This is not like sending a letter or showing up at a board meeting. This is done to harass elected officials, to harass the president, to harass the Jewish community, Acker said. It's disgusting."

Detroit Tigers fans are getting ready for the big playoff game Saturday, with some making the short drive to Cleveland to see it in person.

The Tigers have played 81 home games at Comerica Park this season, yet a 29-year-old from Novi has managed to see the team play more than 100 times and counting.

"So far 103," Joe Moskaitis said of the games he's attended. "Was planning 101, but the playoffs happened and now we've got 104 tomorrow on Saturday.

Youd be hard pressed to find a Tigers fan as dedicated as Moskaitis. From Oakland to Toronto, Boston to Chicago, hes quite literally followed this team all season long.

Related: Start times announced for Detroit Tigers playoff series against Cleveland Guardians

For the last couple months, I essentially went to every single game I could, which excluded most west coast trips, Moskaitis said. "Always been a big fan but didn't have, I guess, the funds to go on this many trips.

A three-year season ticket holder, Moskaitis made a goal of going to 100 Tigers games this season. However, an unexpected playoff push keeps moving that number higher.

At what point did you think wow, this team might actually make the playoffs?" I asked Moskaitis.

I'd say middle to late August I said 'you know, this could happen. This actually could happen,' he responded. "I couldn't believe what was going on. I'm already at 100, a little over 100 now. I just gotta see how many I can push it to.

VIDEO: Fans, businesses ready for MLB playoffs to return to downtown Detroit Fans, businesses ready for MLB playoffs to return to downtown Detroit

Since Moskaitis can work remote, hes able to make last-minute trips happen. In fact, he did an interview with us from a hotel in Houston.

I said 'you know, what? Wild Card we haven't been to the playoffs in 10 years. I'm gonna fly there and I'll go work in Houston for the week,'" Moskaitis said. "Had to go see it, and it was fun to see.

When this 100 game mission began, Moskaitis never imagined itd continue to October. No matter where the journey ends, it's one he'll never forget.

Its just unbelievable seeing them all come together. If someones got an off day, another guy is hot that day. They got each others backs, Moskaitis said. "Theyre fighting and clawing for every single game. It's truly unbelievable seeing what theyve done this year.

For the first time in 10 years, playoff baseball is coming back to downtown Detroit.

The Detroit Tigers beat the Houston Astros 5-2 on Wednesday, moving on to the AL Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. The best-of-five series includes at least one home game at Comerica Park, with a second potential game if necessary.

VIDEO: Tigers move onin playoffs, eliminate the Astros Tigers move on in playoffs, eliminate the Astros

The middle of a work day didnt stop Tigers fans from heading to the ballpark to watch the team punch their ticket to the divisional round during the Tigers official watch party.

Its too small on the little screen. Gotta be in the park to enjoy it, Donetta Smolinski of Shelby Township said.

See our coverage from the watch party at Comerica Park in the video below: Hundreds cheer Tigers at Comerica Park watch party

Smolinski and Edward Caudle came to nearly 20 games this year including Opening Day. They're surprised to be back at the park watching baseball again in October. They already bought tickets to the home playoff game against the Guardians.

"We were here Opening Day with the snow, and here we are," Smolinski said.

While not packed for a weekday away game, the win means another series for the Tigers, including potentially two homes games at Comerica Park, which would bringing thousands of people downtown. Already, there's lots of excitement.

The excitement in the city is so awesome right now," said Frances Billingsley of Detroit, who was at the watch event. "Hopefully, they go to the World Series. Thatd be awesome.

I think it brings a lot," downtown resident William Zimmer said about the playoff run. "It brings a lot to the economy and the energy of the city and young people wanting to live here.

The victory is also a win for downtown sports bars like Harrys. Even on Wednesday, they had post-game spillover from fans at the Comerica watch party, and now get to add another playoff series with home games in the mix.

"We got the Lions going strong, we got the Tigers in the playoffs and the Wings are going to start next week," general manager Hugh Leonard said. "This is the start of our busy season so to add this on, to us its just even more exciting.

For Smolinski and Caudle, they think back to Opening Day when they went with their friend Eric. He was a Tigers season ticket holder who even went to the 1968 World Series. Sadly, he died suddenly about a month ago just as this magical run was beginning. They hope for him, the Tigers go all the way.

He was blind and he loved the Tigers," Caudle said of his friend. "Hes helping us out from upstairs.

A mother is speaking out and demanding answers after her daughter died from an incident in a Detroit court while waiting for her arraignment.

Twenty-three-year-old Chelsea Heugel was in custody at the 36th District Court on Sept. 17 when she attempted suicide and was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

Obviously, she wasn't watched in there," Heugel's mother, Rebecca Fant, said. "Just way too young.

For two weeks, Fant has been mourning the loss of her daughter while struggling to learn how it happened.

"Stubborn girl, very smart. She had three children," Fant said. "She was having some struggles, she was going through a domestic violence situation with a guy she was living with for four years and ended up running off and getting involved with the wrong people to escape it.

Fant says her daughter battled with mental illness and drug addiction. She was recently charged with operating a stolen vehicle and fleeing police before being arrested again after cutting off her tether. While in custody at the 36th District Court waiting to be arraigned, she took her own life.

It shocked me... the fact that I reported her mental illnesses, that they weren't watching her, Fant said, while adding her daughter suffered from bipolar disorder along with oppositional defiant disorder and high-level ADHD.

In a statement, Chief Judge William McConico responded by saying in part:

"The court was not made aware of any mental health concerns regarding this individual. She was regularly monitored by our security officers, with checks occurring every 15-20 minutes, during which an officer would converse with her and visually assess her condition. Tragically, between two of these checks, the detainee used a cord from a pay phone in an attempt to take her own life. "While our facility meets and often exceeds state standards for court detention operations, we have immediately implemented additional safety measures to prevent such tragedies. We are installing extra cameras in the area, and the cords from all pay phones have been removed. Full removal of the pay phones is currently underway.  "This incident has deeply affected everyone at our court. We are profoundly saddened by this loss, and our deepest condolences go out to the individuals family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

Those three kids now, because someone didn't do their job, have to grow up without a mother," Fant said. "I have five kids here who don't have their sister and they don't understand. Just one person's job could've made that difference.

If you are in crisis, please call, text or chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Fant started a fundraiser to help pay for Heugel's funeral expenses.

A city known for its large immigrant population, Hamtramck is reportedly the first Muslim-majority city in the United States and also made headlines as the first city with an all Muslim city council. Some in the community are now expressing shock that the Democratic mayor is officially endorsing former President Donald Trump.

Inside one of Hamtramcks popular coffee shops, we met residents like Adam DePollo, who just learned their mayor, Amer Ghalib, is endorsing Trump.

In some ways, I'm not surprised," DePollo said. "On the other hand, it is shocking.

Ghalib, an immigrant from Yemen, became the citys first Muslim mayor when he was elected in 2021. While in office, the city made headlines banning pride flags from being flown on city property, which is something DePollo says didn't sit well with liberal voters in the city.

I think more liberal folks in Hamtramck didn't vote for him in the first place, so it probably won't change their minds," DePollo said of the endorsement.

Zakaria Ghaleb is a 28-year-old Yemeni immigrant who came to Hamtramck 14 years ago. He said he won't be voting for either candidate, but he remembers when Trump issued a travel ban to seven Muslim-majority countries, including Yemen.

In his first term when he (Trump) banned immigration from Yemen, I'm from Yemen. The mayors from Yemen, so I was surprised he (mayor) was endorsing Trump, Ghaleb said.

Related video: Group rebrands as 'Abandon Harris' campaign before election, may endorse new candidate Group rebrands as 'Abandon Harris' campaign, may endorse new candidate

Then you have other residents like Farhan Alnajar, a small business owner who has lived in Hamtramck since 2000. He says as a Muslim, he was afraid of a Trump presidency back in 2016. Now, for the first time, he plans to vote for Trump in November.

I was afraid because of his speech, you know?" Alnajar said. I even posted a small video on Facebook saying 'If Trump wins, I will leave the country.' I'm glad I didn't. It was one of my best years.

Alnajar said he likes how Trump is in favor of school of choice and religious freedom when it comes to schools. He also supports Trump because he says it will lead to lower taxes.

"The most important thing is cut the taxes," Alnajar said. "I know to me as a small business owner, it's not going to be that much, but its going to help.

Our Carolyn Clifford spoke to Ghalib to hear why hes supporting Trump.

There was a major disconnect between us and the Republican Party. I think this has to come to an end, Ghalib said. "We have high hopes he will end the chaos in the Middle East like he said.

Watch Carolyn Clifford's interview with Ghalib in the video below: Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib explains his endorsement of Donald Trump

Ghalib has been a vocal critic of Israel over its war in Gaza, and the Hamtramck City Council passed a resolution to divest from Israel and to not support companies associated with the country.

Ghalib also joined a group of fellow Democrats who signed a letter in February vowing to vote uncommitted during the primary. After expressing frustration with the Biden and Harris administration, Ghalib now believes Trump could help reach a ceasefire.

Ghalib says he's been in contact with Trump campaign officials for weeks and requested a meeting with Trump. The two met in person before Trump's rally last week in Flint.

We led and supported the uncommitted movement for a reason because of his (Biden's) foreign policy, how he is handling the situation in the Middle East," Ghalib said. "We asked multiple times that they should change course but nothing happened. Kamala Harris is still going in the same path and nothing was addressed. We didn't see any change.

While the mayor is throwing his support behind Trump, its still a guessing game where the rest of the city will stand in November.

"Personally, I would be very surprised if he (Trump) wins the election here," DePollo said. "Thatd be very shocking.

"I think they will follow Amer Ghalib because they had very good living time under Trump," Alnajar said of Hamtramck citizens. I don't think they should focus more on the international issues; they should focus on their local issues first.

They are voting Trump because of the domestic policy for here at home, Ghaleb said of Trump supporters he knows within the Yemeni community. Gas was cheap, groceries were cheap... the reaction is they were doing good economically under Trump and they're fed up with this open border under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

Ghalib also said he officially invited Trump to hold a rally in Hamtramck and he even discussed opening a Trump campaign office in the city.

We reached out to the Michigan Democratic Party Monday afternoon for a response to the endorsement but did not hear back before publication.

There was uproar and anger from DTE Energy customers sounding off against a rate hike request from the company, while a number of community leaders spoke out in favor of it.

The Michigan Public Services Commission held a public hearing on the request Wednesday at Mumford High School in Detroit. The company is asking the commission for a rate increase to raise $456 million. It's money they say will be used to help improve the grid.

Watch our story from earlier in the day ahead of the public hearing below: Residents asked to weigh in on $456 million DTE rate hike proposal

However, some rate payers were not happy.

Let them use those record-breaking profits and do what theyre supposed to do, said Max Boyd of Highland Park, who is a member of the organization Soulardarity.

The MPSC is tasked with approving a request from DTE to increase rates and got an earful from some residents in Detroit. Many are angry over DTE's service and the cost of it.

"You sit here and witness this abuse and you have the power to do something about it and you don't," said Roshaun Harris of the Eastside Community Network. "How do you sleep at night?!"

DTE says the $456 million request would be used to invest in the grid, providing a statement saying:

"DTE has invested billions of dollars into building the grid of the future one that will deliver on our commitment of reducing power outages by 30% and cutting outage duration in half in the next five years. As weve invested, our focus has been and remains on affordability for our customers, keeping bills below the national average and any increase below the rate of inflation. Weve also helped connect our most vulnerable customers with millions of dollars in financial aid to help pay their bills.   Were already seeing impacts of our work, which is why its critical that we continue these investments to build a smarter, stronger, more resilient grid that will serve our customers with the safe, clean, reliable and affordable energy they deserve now and for generations to come. We believe this is the best way to serve our customers and we look forward to their feedback."

DTE says the increase would amount to no more than 37 cents a day, or about $135 extra per year.

One could say its only going to be a couple cents up but when those cents already don't exist, youre putting strains on families and households, Khary Frazier of Detroit said.

Many residents feel the improvements on the grid shouldn't come out of their pockets.

They have enough profit to put into their business, Frazier said.

DTE is asking us to pay for their luxuries while we can barely afford to pay our monthly bills, Rafael Mojica of Soulardarity added.

Previous coverage: Protesters gather outside DTE headquarters, say proposed 10% rate hike should be denied Protesters gather outside DTE headquarters, say proposed 10% rate hike should be denied

The hearing was also tense at times as some nonprofit leaders, business owners and union leaders many of whom said they work with DTE came to speak on behalf of the company but were met with shouts and boos.

"DTE has been extremely helpful and supportive with us in meeting the needs of our community members," said Ron Lockett of the Detroit Association of Black Organizations. The organization's website lists DTE as a corporate partner and sponsor.

Previous coverage: Sweltering summer leaves metro Detroiters frustrated with costly electric bill Metro Detroiters fed up with price of DTE bills rising

"It makes it more resilient in reducing outages. This is crucial in extreme weather as events become more frequent," said David Felton, who serves as vice president of DABO, before someone in the crowd asked if DTE wrote the statement for him.

"No, I looked it up myself, but thank you," Felton responded before later addressing to the crowd again. What Im going to do is Im going to keep talking and I need you to shut up."

"I want to state that I'm in favor of this rate increase to rebuild the infrastructure," Rev. Horace Sheffield, CEO of DABO, said during the hearing. "Ive had service delivery issues and I think a lot of things with the execution of the additional cost are addressed through this.

The commission first began these hearings two years ago in response to an outpouring of people who wanted to speak out.

Unlike the evidence that's apart of the record, we're not actually able to base a decision based on comments," said Dan Scripps, chair of the Michigan Public Services Commission. "They're not subject to cross-examination and other rigors, but it gives a sense of where the community is and thats beneficial as well.

In the past, the MPSC has still approved the rate hike request but for less than initially requested, which met the ire of some in the audience.

Were not dumb. We know DTE asks for an insane amount of money and then theyre expecting to get a lesser amount," Boyd said. "Then you come and check the box talking to all the wonderful residents of Detroit and you give them the exact amount they were expecting in the first place.

With tensions high, frustrations were certainly heard, but the final decision is still unknown.

We beg of you to stop and halt not just this rate increase but the one theyll be asking for in a couple weeks and the one theyll be asking for in six months, Frazier said.

A controversial plan to open a gun store near Berkley High School has been pulled by the stores owner after dozens of parents sounded off against the proposal.

Many of those parents attended Monday's city council meeting to protest the plans and now, the city is looking at updating its zoning laws to prevent gun stores from opening near schools in the future.

"The business owner has recently withdrawn their application, which means these plans will not be moving forward at this time," Berkley Mayor Bridget Dean said to start the meeting. "I understand that this business owner's original plans caused worry and surprise in our community, especially given the proposed location's proximity to our high school facilities."

Dozens of Berkley parents like Bridget Mahrle have been sounding off to the city in recent days after learning of the proposal to put a gun shop near Berkley High School with a storefront on Coolidge Highway near Catalpa Drive.

The news of a gun store opening within walking distance to our high school, it was sickening, Mahrle said. It was on the heels of the Georgia school shooting, and we just couldn't stomach it as parents, as residents."

Other Berkley parents like Marc Keast also spoke out against the location. Keast is an Oakland County prosecutor who tried the shooter and both parents in the Oxford High School shooting.

Why give a troubled youth the opportunity to become fascinated with a deadly weapon," Keast said. "To me, it just made absolute sense to prevent having that firearm store within close proximity to where we know a thousand kids will be walking every day.

Dean now says theyll look at changing ordinances and could consider limiting gun shops to the area of 11 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, requiring they be at least 1,000 feet away from schools. As of now, theyre unrestricted.

There's already (laws) in place for cannabis, it's already in place for selling alcohol, it's already in place for age-appropriate businesses," Mahrle said. "Guns needs to be in that discussion.

Mahrle says theyve also reached out to legislators in Lansing, hoping to change state law.

But not everyone in Berkley agrees.

It is a legal business. It meets all the requirements for being in that space, one Berkley resident said during public comment. "What are we teaching our children when a small, very vocal, very loud minority can bully someone to leave their plans behind.

As these parents now focus on changing law, they feel the city is listening and thank the shops owner for changing plans.

We are incredibly grateful. He didn't have to he heard us, Mahrle said. We're fine with a gun store, just not there.

After 98 years, the city of Berkley could be pulling the plug on Berkley Days as residents know it, with the city council now considering a ban on all carnivals.

The move comes after multiple fights between teenagers caused chaos two years in a row at the May event, sending families running and straining police resources. It hasn't been the only festival with safety issues in metro Detroit.

I'm disappointed. I'm really disappointed, Berkley Days Association Co-chair Lesley Robbins said of the situation. "With all the hard work we put into this thing, to have stuff happen, nobody likes that.

After fights shut down the 2023 Berkley Days, the event beefed up security with added fencing and security entrance checkpoints. But still, fights and panic broke out with Saturday night being shutdown early and three arrests happening just outside festival grounds.

Watch our May 2024 coverage of the event security and fighting below: Fighting teens causing chaos have Berkley Days organizers evaluating its future

Similar incidents have happened all over metro Detroit, like one fight caught on camera last year in Dearborn Heights and just this month, a fight among teens at the State Fair in Novi left a 14-year-old shot dead.

The last two years, it's been a trend," Robbin said. "It's happened here, it's happened in neighboring communities, the state fair, everywhere.

Related video: Community mourns loss of teen killed outside Michigan State Fair 'Justice for Darean': Community mourns loss of teen killed outside Michigan State Fair

It's becoming a concern to try to host these type of events with the security thats needed, Detective Lt. Andrew Hadfield with Berkley Public Safety said. "It's always been an event where you can drop off your kid and pick them up later, and parents don't feel that way anymore.

Berkley Public Safety once staffed the event with two to four officers but last year had 41 officers at the event by nights end on Saturday. Sixteen had been staffed from Berkley, with 25 others called in from surrounding communities. It amounted to a total one-day cost of more than $13,000.

If you have all hands on deck and issues get out of hand, youre having to call in mutual aid, you're tapping into resources for your neighborhood communities," Hadfield said. "If any other emergency happens, that's a concern because everyone is tied up with juvenile fights at a carnival fair.

A potential solution now being proposed to Berkley City Council is a citywide ban on all carnivals, effectively ending Berkley Days as its been known, shy of its 98th year.

Hadfield is a lifelong Berkley resident with fond memories of the traditional event, and says his kids also enjoy it today.

Most people I know want to continue Berkeley Days the way it had been in the past, but a lot of people over the past two years are concerned, Hadfield said. It's sad to see because so many kids have grown up with this as part of their lives, and to see it end is kind of sad.

Related video: Sterlingfest increases safety protocols, looks to learn from other brawl-filled festivals Sterlingfest increasing safety protocols this year, looks to learn from other brawl-filled festivals

Parents like Nikki Bruster, who went as a kid and has been bringing her kids for the last decade, is not in favor of closing down the event.

"It's really sad because it's taking something thats time honored, that is a community event, that so many people work so hard for and that supports the community so well, Bruster said. "Kids in school, going to a carnival, going to a grocery store, you don't have a guarantee anywhere anymore, and I don't think shutting it down or banning anything is going to be helpful either.

While organizers do want to see an annual event continue, they also say something has to change.

We don't want to see it go down this way, but we do have to understand what the trends are and this isn't going in a safe direction, Hadfield said.

"Hopefully, there won't be a ban on festivals. It's just right now, its not a good idea, Robbins said. It's so hard to say because the carnival is my favorite part, but I think we have to reinvent at this point.

The Berkley City Council is set to discuss this new proposal during their meeting on Monday at 7 p.m.

A locally owned grocery store in Rochester Hills says its being pushed out of its location in favor of a new Meijer Grocery store, and its loyal customers are not happy.

Hollywood Markets, located at the corner of Tienken and Rochester, says their lease that ends in January is not being renewed by the landlord.

Sue Evans was shopping at Hollywood Market on Wednesday afternoon and says she's been going to the store for 20 years. She's been aware that it will likely be closing.

"Theyre loyal to the community, they have excellent products, their meat is surpassed by none," Evans said. "When they are loyal to the community, we should be loyal back.

Those who work behind the counter like Peggy Carlson take pride in their positive reputation, having been an employee for 26 years.

It's like the cheers of stores," Carlson said. "We know everybody, we get to know the families, the grand kids, they draw us pictures we put them on the wall. Theyre so excited to see us and hug us, so I'm going to miss all that.

The family-owned chain first opened in Oakland County in 1950 and now has a handful of stores. The Rochester location opened in 2007.

However, this year could be the last for the Rochester store, after the owner says the landlord is not renewing their lease.

Hollywood Markets released a statement from President Thom Welch that read in part, My family and Hollywood Markets are longtime neighbors and retailers in the Rochester area. We were very disappointed last December, a few days before Christmas, to hear from our Landlords attorney that our Landlord was not interested in renewing or extending our lease at the Teinken and Rochester Center. It is very unusual for a business that anchors a full center, and pays its bills, would not be renewed... It was a very difficult message to share with our employees.

It was hard. We learned it right after Christmas, about 2 weeks after Christmas," Carlson said. "We were all crushed. We try not to think about it.

We're all very sad because we don't want to shop anywhere else, Evans said. They have a more personal relationship with us... You won't get that at a bigger box store."

The City of Rochester Hills confirms there is a public hearing on Tuesday, September 17 for a proposed Meijer Grocery Store. The company submitted renderings and plans to update the building, adding a drive-thru pharmacy.

A Meijer spokesperson confirmed they have submitted a site plan to the City of Rochester Hills, saying it's the "first step" for considering a new store location.

Some Hollywood customers like Evans say they plan to attend the public hearing.

I think there's a ground swelling of support from the community," Evans said. "I hope people will just go and voice their opinions and see if they can make a difference.

While Hollywood Markets wants to find a different location close by, they haven't found one yet. They haven't given up hope, and neither are the loyal customers.

If I have to drive an extra ten minutes, I don't care because they do right by us, Evans said.

The public meeting is taking place in front of the planning commission this Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00 pm.

Students at Wayne State University gathered in Manoogian Hall on Tuesday night to watch the presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.

The event was organized by associate professor Ron Stevenson, who was once himself on the debate team at Wayne State. He hopes his students many of them on the school debate team pay attention to the election process and learn from watching the debate.

A lot of college students consider themselves political. The real question though is how informed they are on where people actually stand on the issues and to watch the arguments politicians make in context rather than the snippets they may see on social media. So to give them a more complete understanding, especially one where theyre hearing both sides, to improve their critical thinking," Stevenson said. "We encourage them to watch events like this.

Students who watched the debate said they took notice on not just what the candidates said but how they said it.

Definitely was very interesting to say the least, said WSU senior and debate team President David Faust. I feel that body language has been a big part of this as well, and I think Kamala Harris has done a good job saying the things that need to be said.

Her facial expressions are very vocal with how she feels about these topics and she makes it very clear to begin with," sWSU sophomore and debate team member Carsen Troub said. "I think that boiling over to that situation where she called him extreme and started laughing at his random discussions about eating dogs, I think its very clear.

If I was throwing around these hyperboles and grand gestures in a debate round... hopefully, my opponent would do the right thing and call me out on it and ask for my evidence cards, and I would have to cite that for them," WSU debate team assistant coach Megan Dombrowski said. "Thats not being done here tonight.

Stevenson said if another debate is scheduled for the two candidates, he hopes to have a larger campus-wide viewing party.

The start of classes could be delayed this school year at Oakland University as the union representing the school's faculty says theyre still without a contract.

The contract originally expired on Aug. 14 but has been extended until Sept. 3, the day before classes are set to begin unless an agreement is reached soon. That means the school year could begin with roughly 680 faculty on strike.

Its currently welcome week with students moving in on Friday filled with nerves but mainly excitement.

It's so very exciting," incoming freshman Kiera Harris said. "New atmosphere, new places, new things, new people. Its all just so very exciting.

Harris says this is the beginning of her journey studying criminal justice and she hopes to go to law school to one day become a judge. But that journey could now start a few days later than she thought.

I heard there was a potential strike, classes might start September 4th, they might not, Harris said. "Obviously, I'm a freshman. I want to start as soon as I can but, you know, to have a few more days off? I'm OK with that.

The uncertainty stems from a contract dispute between the school and its faculty. The union representing roughly 680 professors says theyve been negotiating since June but have yet to reach a deal.

The sides are really not all that far apart," said Michael Latcha, an OU associate professor and president of the AAUP- AFT Chapter. "We are confident and hopeful that the university can put something on the table we can agree to and we can be in class Wednesday morning when students show up."

But Latcha says it's unlikely they would meet students in class Wednesday without a new deal. Back in 2021, the union started the year with a strike that lasted two days. Latcha says they agreed to a minimal raise and since then, inflation has risen dramatically. Without a better raise in this contract, they could strike again.

Watch our 2021 coverage of the strike as the school year started at Oakland University: Uncertainty for Oakland University students as faculty strike on first day of fall semester

We really are just down to money. Everything else has been either taken off the table or resolved, Latcha said. "I am hopeful that the administration will do the right thing and give us something we can agree to.

The university says the five-year deal they proposed is their best in decades, with a 16% salary increase and 21% increase in overall compensation, saying it reflects what OU believes is the best package it can offer without incurring systemic deficits moving forward.

Students we spoke to overall were in support of the teachers. Some had been told about the situation, while others hadn't.

I used to want to be a teacher when I was younger and the whole reason I stopped that like I didn't want to be a teacher anymore was because they don't get paid enough," said incoming freshman Miranda Amesse, who's studying political science. "So I would back them for a strike to get paid more, for sure.

While the start of the school year is still up in the air, both sides say they hope an agreement is reached before the school year begins.

We are prepared to welcome students into the classroom as soon as we have a contract. Everyone has everything prepared, ready to go," Latcha said. "That (contract) is the only thing standing in the way.

The two sides will meet again Sunday and are also scheduled to meet again with a mediator on Tuesday, hoping to have a deal reached by the start of classes on Wednesday.

As a large storm and strong winds rolled through metro Detroit this week, trees, branches and power lines were knocked down across the area.

In Canton, a huge section of a tree fell onto Jessy Starr's mobile home.

It just felt like I couldn't get a break," Starr said. "Still feels like I can't get a break if I'm being honest.

The last 48 hours have been a struggle for Starr, who was sleeping early Wednesday morning when he felt his home shake and heard his brother, whos disabled, calling for help.

My brother came into the kitchen and called out to me that he had an emergency and he needed help," Starr said. "That's when I saw him there in the kitchen just bleeding from his back.

His brother had been sleeping when a huge chunk of a tree came crashing down right on top of him. Starr says his brother went to the hospital for stitches, leaving Starr and his 4-year-old daughter, who was in the home that night, in disbelief.

Panic it was panic," Starr said. Eventually, all that panic kind of died down into numbness.

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His brother is now OK but without insurance, Starr doesn't know how to repair his home. The tree also landed on his car, which he hasn't been able to drive since.

Right now, my biggest priority is getting my truck so I can go back to work and I can see my daughter and I can keep moving forward on getting my home repaired, Starr said.

We learned about Starr and his story through one of his neighbors who heard what happened and is now working to get help for him. She reached out to 7 News Detroit reporter Kimberly Craig to spread the word.

Me as a single parent, I understand hardships happen," neighbor Kellie Farris said. "This is very much one of the situations where someone needs to step in and help.

Farris hopes to at least fix Starrs windshield, if not more. She set up this online fundraiser to help him with repairs.

Hopefully, fingers crossed, he gets the help he needs starting with the windshield, so he can get back and forth, Farris said.

One bright spot of this whole thing is seeing how much people actually care, see how much they're willing to help," Starr said. "It's meant a lot

Its a big week for 14-year-old Mariana King, who started her last year of middle school at Birney in Southfield on Monday. However, her first week back was put on pause late Monday evening with class suddenly canceled for Tuesday.

I really want to go back to school," Mariana said. "Now I got one whole day without school.

>> List of school closings and delays

Related video: Detroit Public Schools shorten first day back because of heat Detroit Public School shorten first day back because of the heat

The district canceled all classes and after school activities Tuesday due to excessive heat, with the heat index expected to reach over 100 degrees.

To me, the classes are cold. They're real cold, so I don't understand the heat, Mariana said.

While Mariana says her school has air conditioning, other districts like Eastpointe and Detroit are also making changes due to heat, moving to an early dismissal Tuesday. Detroits Superintendent Nikolai Vitti says many of their schools dont have air conditioning.

"We start this year about 50% have air conditioning. In the next five years, all but 10 will have air conditioning, so just excited to make this investment," Vitti said.

Parents like Meghan Davis say the last-minute changes are an inconvenience to parents. While her kids go to a charter school in Detroit, she hopes those investments in air conditioning happen quick.

I think about when I was younger, we went to school whether it was hot or cold," parent Davis said. "I just hope these schools would really consider the learning environment, you know? It is important to make sure we have the boilers in tact, the air conditioning working, so these kids can be able to attend school and the teachers get their job done.

Mariana says she's disappointed class is canceled. While summer break may be over, the summer heat isnt going anywhere.

Most of my friends were probably like hey, we just got back and we seen our friends and stuff like that," Mariana said.

On Thursday, the FDA approved new updated COVID vaccines for this fall, targeting new strains to give better protection against the virus.

The vaccines could be available within days, just as Michigan and the country are in the midst of a surge in COVID cases.

"I work between the hospital, which is local, and my clinics, and we're seeing a huge spike in COVID currently, said Dr. Ali Shuayto, D.O.

Dr. Shuayto is Medical Director at The Heights Urgent Care in Dearborn Heights. They also have locations in Redford and Eastpointe. While Dr. Shuayto says most cases hes seen havent been too severe, hes still getting ready for a new round of COVID vaccines just approved by the FDA.

It seems within the next few weeks we should be up and running and have them in stock in our offices, said Dr. Shuayto.

The vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are simply updated to better target more recent strains circulating in the U.S. Many patients are eager to get it.

"I am very happy to hear it," said Tammy Blevins. "I'll be getting it as soon as possible.

Blevins has been waiting for this news, especially after her last bout of COVID in December.

(It) Was pretty bad, I had to be hospitalized. I had a 104 fever, said Blevins. "That experience really makes me want to get the new one, so I will definitely be getting it.

Dr. Michael Brown is the university physician at Michigan State University. He highly recommends the updated vaccines for those most vulnerable and also recommends it for younger students returning to MSU's campus.

The number of emergency department visits due to COVID have bumped up slightly, but it pales in comparison to what we saw the first couple years of the pandemic, said Brown. "I will be recommending that people go out and get a vaccine, but its not mandatory or required like it was during the peak of the pandemic.

What also could be different with this vaccine is the cost. The COVID vaccine has been free for everyone since the pandemic, but that federal program ends this month. While most insurance providers will cover the vaccine, those uninsured patients may be stuck with a bill.

The unfortunate part is we used to be able to give them to everybody for free who was insured and even uninsured, now we're running into issues whos going to cover them if theyre not insured," said Dr. Shuayto. "We're working with officials and everything like that to see if theres some form of program that we can get out there for people who are not insured to get them vaccinated.

Novavax also has an updated COVID vaccine they hope is approved soon.