The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department is notifying homeowners that the city's drinking water is safe to consume.

VIDEO: Stay ahead of any possible lead exposure Stay ahead of any possible lead exposure

This comes after thousands of homeowners received a letter Monday warning that their property may have lead service lines or lines made up of "unknown materials." About 225,000 Detroiters received that letter. Several others received letters of notice about galvanized lines and confirmed lead lines.

East side resident James Cain was one of the property owners to get the letter warning of "unknown materials." He says reading it was concerning.

"That was kind of weird," said Cain as he read the letter to a 7 News Detroit crew. "You get this letter saying unknown materials. Well, what is that?"

The city says the letter is part of a federal mandate by the Biden-Harris administration and the EPA as cities are required to replace all lead service lines over the next 10 years. DWSD says the letter, which must be sent out annually, was meant to alert homeowners that they may have lead lines and the city intends to replace them in the coming years.

"The drinking water is safe and the letters do not indicate any change in the water quality in the system nor at your property," said DWSD director Gary Brown. "Our water is safe and some of the best water in the world. We're a leader in the United States in delivering quality water."

Brown says because the letter lacked context, it created alarm among residents. He apologized to residents who were confused by the wording in a Tuesday media briefing.

"What's raising the angst among our residents is the word unknown," said Brown. We understand that we only have 80,000 lead service lines, but we sent letters to 225,000 households because, until they're verified, until we dig up their front yard at their stop box right at the property line and look at 18 inches on both sides of that stop box and verify that it's either copper or lead, we have to classify it as unknown."

Brown says if their crews determine the service lines in front of a property are copper, the lines are left untouched and the lawn repaired. If they discover the lines are made up of lead, the lines will be replaced.

Since beginning this work in 2018, DWSD has replaced 11,377 lead lines. At least 6,880 lines were replaced in 2024 alone.

The city says they will be using the next 10 years to continue replacing remaining lead service lines.

If you have questions about the safety of water at your home or how to determine if you have lead-based lines, more information can be found here.

Where Your Voice Matters

The former CFO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is now facing 15 to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money laundering Friday.

William A. Smith, 52, was ousted from the nonprofit in May 2024 after investigators say he embezzled somewhere between $25 to $65 million. Attorneys in the case say Smith used the money to support a "lavish lifestyle."

"Ever since we learned of this case the scope and scale of it has been astonishing to not only the community but our office," said U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison."A large portion of it was just used to support a very lavish lifestyle: trips for his family on first-class airplanes, private planes, clothing, and other things all at the expense of people who were really working hard to beautify a riverfront that has been recognized as the best riverfront in America."

Smith entered a plea agreement with the federal government that will require him to pay back a minimum of $44.3 million in restitution. Ison says her office has already begun seizing assets. The U.S. attorney's office also put a restraining order in place to prevent Smith from trying to sell any assets. However, Ison says it's unclear how much of the embezzled funds will be able to be recouped as much of it was spent on personal/nonrefundable items.

"Honestly it's a big sense of relief. Clearly, this was expected but this has been a long time coming since this was first discovered and the case was handed over to the authorities back in May," said Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CEO Ryan Sullivan.

Sullivan says the impact Smith's actions have made on the nonprofit are still weighing heavily on the team.

"Its indescribable. If you can imagine working with someone for a decade or more that was in your midst that was lying and deceiving everyone around you throughout that entire period of time," said Sullivan. "Its immeasurable the impact this has had on the community but one thing I will say is we are strong. We are resilient. Our team is standing here today."

Smith's Attorney's declined to comment after the hearing on Friday. Smith is currently out on bond.

Detroiter Lisa Maria Murdock who often enjoys the riverfront almost daily says the case has been sad to watch.

"It was very disappointing because it just gives Detroit another bad name," said Murdock.

Lifelong Detroiter Kim Cunningham takes a walk along the riverfront every day.

"I love it. I love the fact that we put the money back into the city. I love that we did something for us so were able to enjoy the environment," said Cunningham.

She says she was also disappointed to see someone taking from the donors and taxpayers who wanted to do something good for the city of Detroit.

"Im really disappointed because of the fact that I believe hes from Detroit as well. Why would you take from the city when were trying to build up," said Cunningham.

Smith is due back in court for sentencing in March 2025. Although the U.S. Attorney's office has suggested a specific sentence, the amount of time Smith spends behind bars will ultimately be determined by the court.

Additionally, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is pursuing civil litigation against Smith.

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy's full statement on Friday's hearing can be found below:

<b>We are pleased to see Will Smith begin to be held accountable for his disgraceful actions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</b> <b>We thank the U.S. Attorneys Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a remarkably speedy and thorough investigation leading to this plea agreement. It requires Smith to identify his assets and cooperate fully with the governments attempts to secure restitution of money stolen from the Conservancy.&nbsp;&nbsp;</b> <b>This is an important step in the process, but our work does not end here. We will continue to pursue civil litigation in pursuit of the stolen money. We also will complete the review of our financial operations and announce a series of reforms that address lessons learned from this scandal. Finally, we will continue to work&nbsp;with our partners to ensure that our projects will be completed on schedule and our operations sustained into the future.&nbsp;</b> <b>The victims in this case are the Conservancy, its generous donors, the People of the City of Detroit and the State of Michigan, and everyone who has enjoyed the international riverfront, consistently voted the greatest of its kind in the nation.&nbsp;Todays actions are part of our deliberate, determined effort to secure the future of the Detroit Riverfront. We are coming out of this stronger.&nbsp;</b> <b>Ryan Sullivan</b> <b>CEO&nbsp;Detroit Riverfront Conservancy</b> Where Your Voice Matters

The state of Michigan says the 2024 presidential race now marks the third election cycle in a row where Michigan has seen record turnout.

Around 5.5 million registered voters in the state cast ballots via absentee, early in person or on Election Day. Secretary Jocelyn Benson says in years prior, the state had trouble passing the 5 million ballot benchmark.

After millions of Americans made their choices at the polls, some say they are now optimistic about the future.

"I was shocked. I think a lot of people were but actually, Im really optimistic. Im excited," said voter Jordan Lewis. "I think for a lot of people who didnt like the guy who got elected, I guess, theres some good news, which is he cant get reelected again but in the same token, I think we all were able to relax a little bit and remember what happened last time and I think theres was a lot of good stuff that happened."

Other voters say they woke up Wednesday disappointed in the results.

"Im happy with a lot of the results that have come around across the country with abortion and Arizona but talking just about presidential, Im feeling hurt and a little betrayed by this country right now," said voter Alexandria Beckham. "It is a little surprising that things were so close, marginally close, that your vote really does matter. Every vote matters."

Despite the record turnout, some places like the city of Detroit actually saw fewer overall voters turning out to the polls. In the 2020 general election, the city saw 50% of registered voters casting ballots. In the 2024 general election, around 47% of registered voters cast ballots in the general election. Although the number of registered voters rose between the two elections overall, voters participating decreased by about 11,000 votes.

"I believe a lot of our young people did not vote. I done had too many people tell me our vote didnt count," said voter April Doss of the 2024 presidential election.

Michigan Secretary Jocelyn Benson held a press conference Wednesday to discuss the night. She says the election was largely a success despite some misinformation spread by former President Donald Trump via social media alleging "heavy police presence" in Philadelphia and Detroit. She says there were also several threats made via email to Michigan polling locations in Genesee, Saginaw, Wayne and Washtenaw counties. However, they were later determined not to be credible and of Russian origin.

Benson says when the counting of votes began, she had hoped to be one of the first swing states in the nation reporting 100%, but poll workers ran into some slowdowns.

"I think we made clear all along that it would take time for counties to report those unofficial results. What we saw over the last 12 hours or so was, in particularly large counties like Wayne, there were no problems with counting or transmitting and thats why we knew things had been tabulated, but it did take a very long time to upload into the county website," said Benson.

Benson also says after nine days of early voting, there was some fatigue among workers. She believes more workers and machinery could make the process more swift in 2028.

"Ill also attribute it to the fact that everyone was being so careful. We knew the immense scrutiny that this process was under and I think everyone was very much on edge and trying to make sure they did everything right," said Benson.

As of noon Wednesday, the state says there are still some 6,000 outstanding military ballots that could be counted if properly postmarked and if they arrive by Tuesday, Nov. 12.

Where Your Voice Matters

With 7 days on the clock, early voting lines in Metro Detroit are growing.

"Ive never voted absentee. I always vote on vote day but I appreciate the fact that theyre letting everybody get out and get their vote in," said Sharon Tweed as she headed inside Waterford Oaks Activity Center to cast her ballot early.

Thomas Lamphere was also one of the voters at Waterford Oaks Activity Center casting his ballot Tuesday. He says this election will be his first time.

"I was just really happy to get out and do it finally," said Thomas Lamphere of Waterford.

Lamphere says he's looking forward to electing a leader who makes Americans feel confident again that the country is heading in the right direction. He says he's encouraging everyone to get out to the polls.

"There were a lot of people in the past who couldnt vote: women, African Americans couldnt vote. People who didnt own land couldnt vote at one point. So, there are a lot of people who fought for them to be able to vote, so its kind of their duty now," said Lamphere.

The state says more than 27% of registered voters, voting early in person or absentee, have already returned ballots. That accounts for nearly 2 million people. It's also the reason area clerks are anticipating record turnout on November 5th.

"Ive been through several election cycles with the city and we have never seen numbers like this," said Livonia Clerk Lori Miller.

Extended interview: Livonia city clerk talks about early voting, election process

Miller says early in-person voting began in Livonia on Saturday at the Livonia Housing Commission South office. She says theyre now exceeding 1,000 voters per day at that location. It's something her team has been preparing for since September.

"We have had to add additional people at both the early voting site and also here at city hall and in addition to that, we will be reaching out and well have a whole bunch of students here on Election Day to help us facilitate the lines and to work through the ballots," said Miller.

In Oakland County, Clerk Lisa Brown says theyre seeing big turnout too.

"Were seeing big numbers and actually eight of our locations are on the top 10 busiest list in the state," said Brown. "Weve been busy. I mean, this whole year its been nonstop and elections are every year but this one is extra busy just because we have the biggest turnout for our presidential elections and its the first year we have early voting."

Extended interview: Lisa Brown, Oakland County clerk, discusses upcoming election

Brown says the presidential election will look a lot different than 2020 where several factors were at play including a global pandemic bringing in a historic number of absentee ballots and delaying election results.

"Its totally different. People have been asking me what do these numbers mean if this many absentee ballots have been returned? We cant compare. We cannot compare. As you said 2020, we had COVID. A majority, I think 80% of the people voted absentee. Thats not normal. Its leveled out since then," said Brown.

Brown also added that despite stories like ballot boxes being burned in Oregon and Washington State spreading across social media, election security, and integrity are top priorities for clerks across metro Detroit.

"Our ballot boxes have cameras so if someone is going to attempt to do that theyre going to be caught on film," said Brown. "Our elections are accurate, secure, and fair. Theyre transparent. There are so many ways that people can be involved or just watch. They dont have to work an election."

The last day to request an absentee ballot by mail is Friday, November 2nd, and early voting is set to close on Sunday. Clerks are also reiterating the importance of physically bringing absentee ballots to ballot drop boxes rather than putting them in the mail to ensure they arrive on time.

Where Your Voice Matters

As voters across metro Detroit begin showing up to the polls early, absentee ballots are quickly piling up.

"I like this because sometimes, you dont know some of the information and this way, you can take time and read it," Beth Goyt said as she showed up to the Clinton Township Clerk's Office to drop off her ballot Wednesday.

Goyt is one of the nearly 25,000 voters expected to return absentee ballots in Clinton Township this election.

Tasked with counting all of those votes are clerks like Kim Meltzer. Meltzer has been the clerk in Clinton Township for years and says about 50% of the 25,000 absentee ballots theyve sent out have already been returned.

"We are very busy at this time as you can imagine everybody is," Meltzer said.

When it comes to getting results on Election Day, Meltzer's hopeful an amended Michigan law that took effect in 2024 that allows clerks to preprocess and tabulate absentee ballots will ensure faster results when polls close on Nov. 5.

Preprocessing is a system where clerks are able to take all the steps they would normally to process a ballot and feed it into a tabulator ahead of time. This process is permitted for a few days before the election takes place. However, they are not given results until polls close on Election Day.

"I think its an opportunity for clerks and we actually practiced the process in the February primary, the presidential primary, as well as the August primary, so we were ready to go. This is a big election. We wanted to practice, if you will," Meltzer said. 

While some clerks are taking advantage of the newly changed law, there are now growing concerns of delayed results for clerks foregoing preprocessing. In Warren, City Clerk Sonja Buffa has faced criticism as county leaders are concerned not processing absentee ballots ahead of time will result in delayed election results.

Watch our previous report where the Macomb County Ccerk explains the situation in Warren below: Why Macomb County clerk says election results may be delayed

Buffa sent the following statement to the 7 News Detroit newsroom:

I have been administering elections for 24 years and my staff has always demonstrated accuracy and precision with elections. Accuracy is the number one priority for me, and then speed is second. It is for these reasons that I have chosen not to pre-process. First, it actually would take more time to pre-process absentee votes for eight days given the extra people needed, the time it takes, the storage necessitated, and the compiling afterwards, than one full day of counting. Next, pre-processing is not mandated for clerks. The legislature could have easily mandated pre-processing, but they chose to make it optional. And finally, up to eight days of pre-processing opens the door for results to get leaked or compromised. I will not risk compromising the integrity of the election. I also want the results quickly and we are committed to accomplishing that task in addition to keeping the election accurate, safe and secure. WE CAN DO THIS! I hope that the scrutiny this office is getting will not discourage the general public from voting. As always, thank you for voting. Sonja Buffa City Clerk Warren

Michael Siegrist is the clerk in Canton Township. He says his office chose not to preprocess in the 2022 election but will take advantage this go-round.

"Theres no more hurry up and wait and its helpful because, again, observers on the outside, they equate speed with accuracy. And so a lot of times when you dont get those election results to the impatient folks who are ready for those results, they begin to fill that vacuum with lots of mis- and disinformation, which can erode the trust in the election system," Siegrist said. "The law changed. The law in 2022 allowed us to open up the absentee ballots and look at the ballot stub, but it didnt allow us to remove the stub and actually tabulate the ballot."

Voters say theyre just looking forward to seeing who the next leader of the country will be.

"Hopefully, the person you want will win and this fighting and bickering will be done," Goyt said.

There is still time for voters interested in absentee voting to obtain a ballot. Clerks recommend reaching out to them directly or picking up a ballot in person and returning it by hand to a ballot box to ensure it gets there safely.

Where Your Voice Matters

Two suspects in the murder of a Rochester Hills man are now in custody.

The Oakland County Sheriff's Office says Carlos Hernandez, 37, and an accomplice who has not yet been named, posed as DTE workers to gain entry to a home on Newcastle Dr. last week. Investigators say after the two men got inside, they tied up a woman and led her husband to a basement while staging a robbery.

The 72-year-old man who has been identified as Hussein "Sam" Murray was killed during the incident. He was found Friday afternoon in the basement of the home.

"How can you describe it? Its been like hell. The way he went, the way he died, thats not right for anybody to go," said Zaher Murray who is the first cousin of victim.

Zaher says he and Sam started in the Jewelry business together more than 30 years ago opening a shop in Hamtramck. The two later parted ways, buying their own individual jewelry stores but remaining close, talking to each other every day.

"Were all like brothers, hes not just my cousin. Hes my brother. Hes my friend, hes everything," Zaher said. "He was a wonderful person. He loved gatherings. He loved family. He loved to talk. He loved to laugh. He loved stories and whoever sat around him it was only Sam talking and thats the kind of person he was. He just loved life."

Zaher says it has been devastating for the entire family to receive the news that he was brutally beaten to death in his own home.

"I want (the suspects) to know you didnt have to kill him like that. If the money was what you wanted, you could have just tied him up and not just beat him to death and take what you want to take," said Zaher. "It could be replaced. We can all replace it but we cant replace him. You took the main you took a flower from us and its never going to be returned." 

FULL INTERVIEW BELOW: Family shares memories of Rochester Hills man killed by DTE imposters Family of Slain Rochester Hills Man speaks out as suspects are arrested

After working with law enforcement state to state, 37-year-old Carlos Hernandez, the man seen on ring doorbell video trying to enter the home Friday, was taken into custody in Shreveport, Louisiana. Law enforcement says Hernandez had several family members inside the car at the time of his arrest.

"We were able to locate that vehicle on I-49 in Caddo Parrish. We had two deputies that made a felony traffic stop and identified the driver and he was the person that was indicated to be wanted out of Detroit," said Sheriff Henry Whitehorn with the Caddo Parish Sheriffs Office in Shreveport. "All indications he was fleeing from Michigan, no contact in our state."

Monday night, the Oakland County Sheriff's Office tracked down the second suspect in Plymouth Township. They say tips from the public played an integral role.

'We got some information about an individual, started looking into places he may be, where he may live, who he may know and visit, etc. Ultimately our surveillance was able to find that individual," said Sheriff Mike Bouchard of the police work that went into apprehending the suspects.

While the arrests bring about some relief to community members on edge, the Murray family says its doesn't even begin to replace what they lost.

"I I could talk to (Sam), Id want him to know that were here still. Well keep his name alive. Well keep his business alive. They took Sam but theyre not going to take him from our heart," said Zaher.

A memorial service was held for Sam Monday.

Hernandez attended a jail clearance hearing Monday. He waived extradition. He is expected to be brought back to Michigan in the coming days. It's unclear when he and the second suspect will receive official charges or face a judge in Oakland Co. for an arraignment.

Where Your Voice Matters

The family of a 7-year-old girl attacked with a knife in Detroit is calling for the prosecutors office to pursue hate crime charges.

Police say last Tuesday Saida Mashrah was playing at a park on Detroit's west side when 73-year-old Gary Lanksy slashed her throat.

Lanksy is now facing Assault with Intent to Murder and Felonious Assault charges in the case.

Related Video: 7-year-old girl kicks suspect, breaks free after he attacks her with knife at Detroit park 7-year-old girl kicks suspect, breaks free after he attacks her with knife at Detroit park

While prosecutors believe the attack was the result of a mental breakdown, attorneys and the family of the victim believe theres something more.

Its been almost a week to the day that Saida was attacked at Ryan Park while playing. Her family now pressuring prosecutors to go for hate crime charges in this horrific case.

"Now I feel scared and I dont want to go to school anymore," said Saida.

Related Video: Full interview with Saida Mashrah after park attack Interview: Girl attacked by suspect with knife at Detroit park

Her mother, Amirah, now speaking about the incident, too.

"Weve been through a lot. The nightmares me and my children go through. We sleep in one bedroom now, me and my three children because of how scared we are imagine it was your children. You would be heartbroken too," said Amirah Sharhan, mother of Saida.

The family of Saida and attorneys with the Arab American Civil Rights League are demanding the man who slashed the young girl's throat be charged with a hate crime.

"This is not just a crime against one child it is an attack on our entire community. It is a reminder that hate is still present in our society and we must stand united against them," said Mariam Charara, Executive Director of the Arab American Civil Rights League.

Today the ACRL sent a letter to the AGs office, the U.S. Attorney and the FBI saying 73-year-old Gary Lanksy picked out and attacked the only visibly different child in the park last Tuesday and also attempted to come after her grandmother who was identifiably Arab, wearing a hijab.

"Were saying like you go after those Arab and Muslims whether they be demonstrators or non-demonstrators and charge everyone, go with the full zealousness and fury of the law against those individuals that do harm to this community," said Nabih Ayad.

The Wayne County prosecutors office has charged Lanksy with Felonious Assault and Assault with Intent to Murder which carries a life sentence.

In a statement, Prosecutor Kym Worthy says If we had any evidence that this was a hate crime and we could prove it beyond a reasonable doubt, we would not hesitate to charge it as a hate crime.

Video Extra: Attorney talks about the criteria for charging hate crimes Attorney talks about the criteria for charging hate crimes

As Lanksy is currently being held on a $2 million bond, 7-year-old Saida is now hoping to turn the traumatic incident into triumph.

"When I grow up I want to be a lawyer so I can let him stay in jail," she said.

Where Your Voice Matters

As Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall Wednesday night, volunteers are hard at work on relief efforts.

The storm is taking aim at Floridas Gulf Coast and is expected to bring heavy wind, rain and major damage.

Evacuation efforts are well underway with the window to get out of unsafe zones closing in.

As that storm unfolds, people here at home are preparing to respond with supplies.

"I cant express how beautiful it is to see so many people coming out and helping out," said volunteer Cliff Lee, who helped pack cleaning supplies.

Lee was one of several dozen volunteers at Disaster Relief At Work's Waterford Township location Wednesday afternoon packing up buckets for victims of Hurricane Helene.

'Its wonderful. I feel so blessed and the people there will be very blessed to get this," said Donna McNally who also helped pack up cleaning supplies.

McNally is the very neighbor the supplies are meant to benefit. She says she evacuated her small town, just outside of Asheville, N.C., to stay with her daughter in metro Detroit. She says she wanted to help those left behind.

"Asheville is going to be without water for a very, very long time because they have to rebuild everything and they have to rebuild all the electric out to our town so its going to be a long haul," said McNally. "I can hardly wait to go back and do the same thing for other people. This is a wonderful place and I really appreciate its going to where I live."

The nonprofit says in the 12 years it has existed, they have responded to around 150 storms. The team has spent the last several days responding to Hurricane Helene.

"Helene is this generation's Katrina, in terms of destruction, devastation and how it expansive it is. Its unlike anything weve ever seen doing this 12.5 years as an organization," said DRAW executive director Greg Martin.

Martin says they don't know exactly what will be needed yet but they are preparing to do the same for victims of Milton.

A truck full of cleaning supplies will be heading out to Brevard, N.C. Wednesday night. Two more trucks loaded with supplies are expected to be packed up and shipped out this weekend for victims of Helene and Milton.

"The thing about this is you never know where these things are going to hit it could be us and if its us we hope other people will step up for us because at the end of the day all we have is each other," said Martin.

Martin says in the coming weeks, more supplies and volunteers will be needed. Anyone interested in helping can find more information on their website.

Where Your Voice Matters

Monday marks one year since Hamas terrorists attacked a music festival in Israel killing around 1,200 men, women and children, the largest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust.

RELATED STORY: War rages on multiple fronts as Israel marks a year since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack War rages on multiple fronts as Israel marks a year since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack

Following the attack, Hamas took 254 people hostage including 12 Americans into Gaza. After killing more than half of them over the last year, about 101 of the hostages are still being held today.

The attack sparked a war that has now been fought for a full year and resulted in the deaths of 42,000 Palestinians, many of them civilians and refugees completely removed from the fighting.

The war has brought about a rise in Islamophobia and antisemitism across the nation and here at home.

Around 4 a.m. Monday, The Max M. Fischer Federation Building, which is used by the Jewish Federation of Detroit, was vandalized.

"We left this up for people to see. We want the world to see," said David Kurzmann who is the senior director of community affairs for the Jewish Federation of Detroit. "I certainly hope the general community sees this as an eye-opening moment that this hate has unfortunately come to our front door."

Using red and black spray paint, the vandals tagged the words "Free Palestine", "F*** Israel" and "Intifada" on windows, sidewalks, and doors. They also sprayed over the building's call box and a security camera.

The FBI and Bloomfield Township Police are now investigating the incident.

"The language thats used is such that makes us feel a sense of both fear and anger. To see the word Intifada on the building, that brings back memories of the second Intifada in the early 2000s when buses were blown up by suicide bombers," said Kurzmann.

Kurzmann says this is now the third time their building has been vandalized in the last year.

"Its saddening, heart wrenching knowing that this has happened and knowing what has happened this past year and theres still fighting going on," said Sylvia Sherman before walking into the building Monday. "To feel like youre hated all the time is not a really pretty feeling. Its really hard and you gotta go on but as Jews, we say were not going to let this get to us."

Sherman says it's her grandfathers name that adorns the building.

"Im not surprised because it is a Jewish building but its sickening and when I saw the video this morning I was screaming at home," said Sherman. "I couldnt believe that someone would do something to such a beautiful building and a place that means so much to so many people."

As the conflict continues to claim lives overseas and divide communities here in Metro Detroit, calls for peace are renewing.

Dr. Ammar Ghanem who serves as the vice president of the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) spent 17 days working in a hospital in Gaza this spring.

"When we went there, we couldnt believe what we can see," said Dr. Ghanem.

Ghanem says in his time at the hospital in Gaza, every person he treated was a civilian and most of them were women and children. He estimated seeing the loss of 50 civilians and 100 or more injuries daily.

"They have nothing to do with the fighting but civilians are losing their life and paying the cost for this," said Ghanem. "This is the most painful thing to see: a child that - hes so innocent, doesnt know whats going on around him, and not recognize why people are fighting and hes being hurt."

Dr. Ghanem says he's hopeful of seeing a ceasefire soon.

"Everybody deserves to have a life with dignity including Palestinian, Israeli, all Arabs, Lebanese whats going on now. We wish everybody to live in peace. As a human, thats my wish now," said Ghanem.

Where Your Voice Matters

A 5-year-old girl is recovering today after being shot on the west side of Detroit. 

Police say around 5:45 p.m. Tuesday, officers on patrol near W. Chicago and Plainview Avenue heard gunshots ring out. A shotspotter call brought the officers to a precise location on Plainview Avenue where they learned the 5-year-old victim had been transported to a hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg.

Related Video: 5-year-old and man shot, police investigating 5-year-old and man shot, Detroit police investigating

"The dude was across the street and just started shooting like boom, boom, boom, boom," said Malik Knott as he recounted Tuesday afternoon."That lil girl always speaks to people. The little girl is a good lil kid. She be to herself majority (of the time), her and her daddy."

Police say as officers were investigating the scene, an adult male showed up to a police precinct saying he had been shot at the same location. Investigators say he sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder.

"I was on my way to work so I could see the barricades and everything down here on the street," said Ronald Russell who lives in the area. "I feel real bad. I dont have kids with me now, but if I did, Id be real afraid because you never know where a bullet's going and they out there shooting like that."

Russell says nowadays people are too quick to pick up a gun.

"Its like the wild, wild west. You snore too loud, you getting shot. You step in the way you getting shot. It just dont matter," said Russell.

Police say the investigation is still underway and they're working to determine how many people were involved but believe the shots began following an argument.

"When I heard about that yesterday, I couldnt do nothing but shake my head," said Jamarion Robinson. "People gone do what they want to do. Its just the consequences that you gotta live with. Like right now, you got to live with that for the rest of your life. You got to live with that for the rest of your life, you just shot a 5-year-old. You thought you was gone do something. Was it worth it."

Police say the 5-year-old girl doing much better today and is expected to make a full recovery.

Police say at this time, they are still working to arrest the suspected shooter(s). If you have any information, call Detroit Police or Crime Stoppers where you can remain anonymous.

Where Your Voice Matters

A group of environmentalists is pushing back against the development of more than 40 acres of wetlands in Wayne.

The wetlands are located on the Waste Management Woodland Meadows Landfill property at Hannan Road and Van Born Road.

Previous report: Destruction of rare wetland on hold after court issues new order in Van Buren Township case Destruction of rare wetland on hold after court issues new order in Van Buren Township case

Earlier this spring, an administrative law judge and the Environmental Permit Review Commission struck down challenges to develop the land. Tuesday marked the first day waste management is allowed to begin developing the land to expand their operations.

On Tuesday morning, a group of protesters formed outside of the Woodland Meadows Landfill in Wayne.

"This is a really precious Michigan ecosystem. It is completely unique. It is one of 200 most rare ecosystems, according to the nature conservancy, and they are literally going to destroy it by filling it in with trash," said Juniper Grove, who is from Ann Arbor.

The group says they have been pushing back against the trash hauler's expansion for years. Grove says that expansion would include filling in 12 acres of rare wet-mesic flatwoods.

"Knowing what youre looking at is important and if you have a piece of land that has the capacity to serve as a home for a lot of our rare species, its needs to be protected," said a demonstrator, who preferred not to use their name. "Ninety-seven percent of the wetlands in the Detroit River basin that were present in 1800 have been destroyed. So there are maybe 3% remaining. So with that little left, you do have to fight over scraps."

The protesters say one of their biggest concerns is destroying the land that several species of plants, birds and bats depend on. They also say developing the wetland, which acts as a natural sponge, could contribute to flooding to area homes.

The environmentalists say theyre now calling on the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to approve fewer projects like this in the future.

EGLE sent the following statement to our newsroom:

The wetlands permit for the Woodland Meadows expansion has been thoroughly reviewed and meets all applicable statutes and environmental protection laws. Multiple preservation requirements and safeguards include: Preservation through a conservation easement of 95 acres of wetland and 18 acres of upland habitat which will be permanently protected under a conservation easement that stays with the land even if it is transferred or sold. A $7 million surety bond to ensure the easements are properly managed should the property owner not satisfy permit conditions. A storm water management plan addressing the runoff from the development site, including a new detention basin, as well as components to address erosion control, sedimentation, and stormwater discharge from the site. Also note the permit was reviewed by both the EPA and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Their suggestions were incorporated into the permit, and neither objected to its issuance. It was also challenged unsuccessfully before an administrative law judge and the Environmental Permit Review Commission. Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy

7 News Detroit also reached out to Waste Management for a response. They sent the following:

The Woodland Meadows Recycling and Disposal Facility operates in strict compliance with all applicable laws and permits while providing critical, modern disposal infrastructure to SE Michigan, including generating renewable natural gas that contributes to heating local homes. Waste Management of Michigan, Inc., along with its independent environmental consultants, thoroughly evaluated the wetlands onsite and considered all offsite alternatives with respect to this project for over two years. EGLEs wetland scientists confirmed the wetlands were isolated, fragmented wetlands with limited ecological value. With input from the EPA, EGLE, an Administrative Law Judge, and a three-panel group of citizen scientists appointed by the Governor (EPRC) unanimously approved the expansion of Woodland Meadows into the adjoining woodlot. &nbsp;In reaching each of their conclusions, EGLE, the ALJ, and the EPRC determined that the project served the publics interest, did not adversely affect aquatic and natural resources, and had no other feasible alternatives. &nbsp;In addition, as part of the expansion project, Waste Management of Michigan, Inc. created and restored approximately 80 acres of new wetland and preserved 22 acres of existing forested wetland and forested upland adjacent to the mitigation site.&nbsp; Mia Jankowiak Waste Management

Protesters remain adamant that EGLE should reform its permitting process and allow more input from members of the public via hearings.

"We cannot make these wetlands come back. These took thousands of years to form," Grove said.

Where Your Voice Matters

In an empty parking lot in Midtown Detroit, Jacob Leinke and his friend Phillip Schumann set up a grill ahead of the Lions game.

The team is set to take on the Seattle Seahawks in Monday Night Football, the first Monday night home game this season.

Leinke and Schumann say they've been fans since they could walk and have been season ticket holders for the last few seasons.

"Were season ticket holders. Whenever we have a night game, were out here as early as we can get. For the morning games, we try to get up pretty early too," said Schumann.

The two were the first to their lot Monday morning, driving into the city all the way from Genesee county.

"I grew up my sisters were wearing cheerleader uniforms, I was wearing Lion's uniforms. I had the pillows, teddy bears, you name it," said Leinke.

While the party got underway early in Midtown, the place where the party usually is, Eastern Market, will look a little bit different this game day. After a fatal shooting a few weeks ago, Detroit police and Eastern Market made the decision to cancel Monday's tailgate.

"We dont expect to see terribly big crowds. Weve heard from a lot of folks that they respect our requests not to tailgate today and a lot of support for the decision. So, we think people will come out and hang out like they would on a normal Saturday night and celebrate the lions," said Katy Trudeau who is the President of Eastern Market Partnership.

Detroit police and Eastern Market are now working to develop a safety plan to bring back the tailgating tradition. In the meantime, fans can expect to see more officers in and around downtown Detroit in plain clothes and uniforms during Monday's game.

Eastern Market staff say theres still plenty to do with a VIP tailgate set to begin Monday afternoon in Shed 5 and neighborhood bars like Eastern Market Brewing Co. still planning to bring the noise and the deals.

"We are not normally open on Mondays. Tonight were making an exception. So well be open tonight starting at 4:00 p.m. and well be having pitchers of Brand New Lager for $19," said Pauline Prueter with Eastern Market Brewing.

Prueter says there will also be trivia at their midtown location, Elephant and Co. Detroit, where the game will be playing as well.

"People dont realize actually how many bars and breweries are in Eastern Market and theyre all very walkable to each other," said Prueter. "You can still come to the area where the normal tailgating happens but maybe this time actually check out some of the local businesses."

Fans say no matter what the pre-game celebration looks like this game, one pride will be there in full force.

"Ford Fields going to be roaring just like it always is," said Leinke.

Eastern Market says theyre hopeful to bring back the tailgate tradition with some improved safety measures at the October 27th home game.

Where Your Voice Matters

A group of super fans of Netflixs hit show "Bridgerton" say they were left with a bad taste in their mouth after a themed event in Detroit turned out much different than what was advertised.

The event was originally set to take place last month on August 25th but was canceled just a few days before because of a venue issue. It was rescheduled for Sunday night.

Dozens of people showed up to the historic Harmonie club dressed in ballgowns expecting to be transported into a fantasy world similar to the show but say they instead were served undercooked food, presented with little themed decor and an exotic dancer and a stripper pole as entertainment.

"Honestly, I just want my money back," said Faye from Grosse Pointe as she stood outside of the venue Sunday night in her costume.

7 News Detroit showed up to the event at the tail end. Our crews were met with several upset attendees.

"The way that it was described was this was going to be a Bridgerton evening. We were gonna have classical music, good dinner. There was gonna be a play and they were gonna pick Diamond of the season. They were gonna give away all of these prizes and we went in and it was completely empty in there," said Amanda Sue Mathis as she stood outside of the Harmonie Club. "There is nothing going on. They have a pole in the middle of the dance floor. A stripper pole in the middle of the dance floor."

Mathis says she drove in from Shelby Township and was really excited to get dressed up like the characters in one of her favorite shows.

"I mean all of these dresses that you see on these beautiful women, we've all been getting them tailored to fit us. So we spent extra money on costumes, all of this beautiful beading, getting our hair done, our nails done for this to be the way that it is," said Mathis. "It's heartbreaking. We were supposed to have this last month. They canceled it and we were like okay. We waited, they rescheduled it to today. We got a limo for this, did all these things, and, basically, got an empty building."

Charming Amecia Fuller-Ragland says she was disappointed with the turn of events Sunday night as well.

"It was complete chaos today. They never even scanned our tickets. Then there were random people that we had paid to eat dinner and there were random people all throughout the venue," said Fuller-Ragland.

Ayrton Hamrick says he and his girlfriend attended the event Sunday to celebrate her birthday. Hamrick says they purchased what was called the "Duke and Duchess" package which was $250 and set to include a professional dance card, professional photo, valet service, dinner, music, and entertainment.

"It was definitely the price tag that had given us this expectation of luxury, regality, class, the Bridgerton experience and even arriving to the event we were told there would be valet service and we had to end up self-parking and paying for parking," said Hamrick.

Camerin Morey says as a super fan of the show, she and her friends were excited to get dressed up Sunday but were left disappointed.

"We were all really angry about it because we had built up these expectations and the tickets were not cheap," said Morey. "I definitely think that the people in this company were just in it to make money and try to maybe copy cat off a successful event but they had absolutely no idea what they were doing or they just didnt care and had no problem taking people's money." 

The owners at the venue, The historic Harmonie Club in Downtown Detroit sent the following statement regarding the event:

We would like to clarify; The historic Harmonie Club is a new venue and events center located in Paradise Valley in downtown Detroit. The Harmonie Club can be rented by all for private or public events. We are in no way affiliated with the promoters and/or organizations that rent our venue for events such as the Bridgerton Ball. While we offer support for all events i.e., providing a proper back-of-house facilities and management team; The planning, programming, and execution of the actual events are handled by the venue lessees, promoters, and their teams. Thank you for your understanding. Feel free to contact us if there are further questions or concerns.

The company behind the event, Uncle N Me LLC, has since disabled comments on their social media posts regarding the event.

7 News Detroit showed up to the venue to see if anyone from Uncle N Me LLC would be there cleaning up the event but no luck. We also went to an address listed for one of the businesses co-owners, Chelsea Beard, who we had spoken to previously. However, no one answered the door. Additionally, our crews called Beard, left voice mails, left text messages, and called a media representative for Uncle N Me LLC but received no response from the company.

"Bridgerton" fans say the company needs to do the right thing.

"I think we should absolutely get refunds and honestly I want to see this company never doing business again," said Morey.

Where Your Voice Matters

The Michigan Public Service Commission is holding a public hearing Wednesday at Mumford High School on Detroit's west side as DTE Energy is proposing a rate hike.

The utility company says the $456 million would help them to continue upgrading the grid as they look to reduce outages by 30% in the next five years. They're also aiming to cut the duration of outages by 50% in that time.

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

DTE says that rate hike would result in an increase of no more than 37 cents per day, but residents across Wayne County say they need to see some improvements to the grid first.

Maureen Chandler lives in a Livonia neighborhood off of Ann Arbor Road and I-275. She says for years, they have lost power frequently.

"Its terrible. In the summer, you dont have air. In the winter, you dont have heat," Chandler said. "I mean, anytime we get a snow storm, a wind, our power would go out. It could be a beautiful day like today, we get a little breeze and the power goes out."

Kelly Prewitt, who has lived in the same Livonia neighborhood for three decades, says she's dealt with the same issues at her home.

"In the last few months, its been better but prior to that, we were getting at least four, five, six (outages) a year and these were not quick ones. These were ones that were leaving us stranded for days at a time," Prewitt said.

Prewitt says many neighbors have been forced to invest in generators or spend thousands out of pocket to cut down trees as a result.

The Livonia neighbors says the frequent outages are the reason they're frustrated about potentially paying more on their monthly bills.

"Theyre not doing enough. All they want is more money, more money," Chandler said. "Our infrastructure compared to other states is horrible absolutely horrible." 

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

While in Livonia energy reliability is the biggest issue, affordability is the reason some Detroiters are also pushing back against the hike.

"All we see is higher rates and less service its terrible," said Sharon Davis-Buyck, who lives in Detroit. "Its ridiculous. Theres no options. We have to go along with everything that we get, which is nothing. Every year, every time I turn around, theres higher rates. Every time I turn around, were in the dark."

Davis-Buyck says it's already a challenge for seniors like herself to make ends meet with the current rate of inflation.

"Pure anger and fear is what comes over me. There is no more room, not even for 10 cents. Groceries were already at an all-time high for food," Davis-Buyck added. "This timing could not be worse. Detroiters are at the end."

"Where are they investing it is the question. Its not over here. Its not where the power is going out," Detroiter Miguel Mims Sr. said. "It makes a difference 37 cents is 37 cents. Thats a lot at the end of the week, end of the month."

DTE sent the following statement to our newsroom about the reasons the proposed hike is critical:

<i>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i> <i>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.</i> Ryan R. Lowry DTE Spokesperson

Khary Frazier with Soulardarity, a grassroots group that advocates for clean, renewable energy, says rates need to stay the same. As the MPSC is set to hold a public hearing on this issue Wednesday, hes working to mobilize more neighbors to show up and voice their concerns.

"You look at these record-breaking profits for so many of the shareholders for DTE. Its like instead of looking at us as ratepayers, going through the government because we dont have other options of where we can get energy. You need to take some of that profit and put it into your own resource," Frazier said. "Its already people that arent affording what exists now. So to add a penny on top of a person thats barely getting by, thats too much."

That public hearing starts at 6 p.m. at Mumford High School. If youre unable to make it to the meeting, there is also a digital option to voice your opinion. Click here to find instructions on how to leave a public comment.

Where Your Voice Matters

This weekend marks one year since the historic UAW Stand Up Strike. Last fall, thousands of workers across the United States for Ford, General Motors and Stellantis walked out of plants.

Some workers were on the picket line for 40 days of fighting for what they believed was a fair contract.

Those workers stood on the picket line, holding signs, until a deal was struck between the union and the Big Three that included a 25% raise, the restoration of Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) and much more.

Now, I'm taking a look back and raising the voices of workers who say the impact of the strike is still seen today.

WATCH BELOW: 2023 report as the UAW went on strike and Shawn Fain marched with workers UAW President Shawn Fain marches with striking workers

When the strike started, the UAW targeted three plants  the Ford plant in Wayne, Michigan, a Stellantis plant in Toledo, Ohio, and a GM plant in Wentzville, Missouri. It continued to grow to other plants over the course of several weeks.

"Really at the time, I think nobody wanted to strike, but as the time got closer and closer to the deadline, it was more like people did want to strike because you could see it wasnt really going in the direction that we all was hoping it was going to go," Yolanda Passement, a worker at GM's Factory Zero plant, said.

The strike lasted for 40 days and it was the first time the union employed a new strike strategy where they targeted specific sites at certain times.

WATCH BELOW: UAW leaders provide update on tentative agreement with GM UAW leaders provide update on tentative agreement with GM

"Weve given up break times, weve given up pay raises, weve given up a lot of benefits and a lot of the kids nowadays they cannot work in these jobs and support their family," Frankie Westberry, a worker at Stellantis' Warren Truck Plant, said.

It was a fight especially important to Westberry, who comes from a long line of autoworkers and has worked at the Warren Truck plant for more than two decades.

"My grandfather fought for the union back in the 30s. He came from Sicily back in 1920 and there was a lot of bloodshed and this was for the people to be able to go to the bathroom," he said.

After six weeks of living on $500 in weekly strike pay and grinding operations at plants to a halt, the automakers and union reached the historic deal.

"We had lost so much. Not just the UAW, but other unions had lost so much, the community had lost so much throughout the years and now this was our one fight back and we could prove to others that it could be done. You can stand up and you can do it also," Passement said.

It's estimated that the Big Three lost nearly $4 billion in revenue when it was all said in done. Wayne State Professor Marick Masters said those impacts are still being felt today as automakers work to go electric.

"Even though its a one-off incident, if you will those impacts of the strike itself affect the bottom line," he said. "And also, you have the impact of the union contract raising labor costs which exists over a longer period of time and builds into future roll ups."

Even still, workers say theres more to fight for in the years to come like retiree benefits and pensions.

"After all that do you feel like it was worth it for what you guys got?" I asked.

"Oh yes. I think it was worth it. I think it was a stepping stone. It needed to be done. There was a lot that we had lost and we gave up and we were told that we were going to get back," Passement said.

"Yes. Its about the dollar but then again its more about human dignity, you know, caring about the person in line next to you," Westberry added.

Where Your Voice Matters

The man accused of shooting and killing a Melvindale police officer was in court Monday for a preliminary exam. Police say 44-year-old Michael Lopez shot and killed Officer Mohamed Said on July 21.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Dont just remember him, resemble him. Community honors officer Mohamed Said Dont just remember him, resemble him. Community honors officer Mohamed Said

Lopez is facing the following charges in connection to Said's death:

Homicide- Murder of a Peace Officer Weapons Possession by a Prohibited Person Carrying a Concealed Weapon Possession of Methamphetamine Possession of Cocaine Weapons carrying with Unlawful Intent Felony Firearms (five counts) Habitual Offender (Fourth Offense)

Wearing his brother's hat and a thin blue line hoodie, Ahmed Said was in court with other family members for the hearing Monday.

"Im here for my family and Im being strong for my family," Said told 7 News Detroit.

The preliminary exam included testimony from two Michigan State Police officers and one Dearborn Police officer who responded to calls for an officer injured the day of the shooting.

The court also heard from a woman who was with Lopez when he first encountered police.

Judge Greg Clifton asked news media not to videotape witnesses for their safety but allowed audio recording of their testimony.

The first witness was Rebacca Davis. Davis said she and Lopez were leaving the Melrose Inn and Suites in Melvindale with several bags in hand. Davis said as they were walking, they stopped to grab a water bottle out of one of the bags. That's when she says Officer Said witnessed Lopez flick a cigarette butt on the ground and approached them asking for ID.

"He drove up crazy, aggressively crossing the street, hopped out of the car, and started yelling at us," said Davis.

Three police officers followed Davis, taking the witness stand to detail things they found in their investigation tying Lopez to the crime. At one point prosecutors played body camera footage from Officer Said's body-worn camera.

The graphic video showed Officer Said approach Davis and Lopez and ask for identification. After a few moments of looking through a bag, Lopez is seen on video taking off running. Lopez jumps a fence and is shortly after tased by Said. A struggle ensues and then there is the sound of a singular gunshot.

Family members of Said broke down in tears while the footage played in court.

Officers say they found Said with a gunshot wound to the head. Lopez fled the scene. He was later arrested in southwest Detroit.

Detective Sgt. Brittany Ellsworth with Michigan State Police Special Investigation Section also spoke on the witness stand saying Lopez admitted to the crime and told police he threw out the gun.

"I just basically asked him to walk me through his day. So he said that they were checking out of the Melrose Hotel, I believe, he said and then he said he made contact with an officer," said Ellsworth as she summarized the interview. "He admitted later on that he fled from him, the officer chased him. He shot him. He intentionally meant to shoot him because he did not want to go back to jail and then he fled from the scene."

Said's family is now pushing for Lopez to be punished even beyond the extent of Michigan law.

VIDEO: Brother of Mohamed Said speaks after suspect's preliminary hearing Brother of Mohamed Said speaks after suspect's preliminary hearing

"He deserves the death penalty. My message to all of you guys and the governor: we need this law in Michigan. We lost three officers in a month," said Ahmed of his brother's alleged killer. "Its going to keep going in Michigan. Its going to get worse and worse if you dont have this law in Michigan."

Also in court Monday was Melvindale Mayor Nicole Shkira who described Said as a brother.

"He died a hero and I want the community to remember him as a hero and for us that are still here to carry on his legacy," said Shkira. "He lived and breathed law enforcement. He wanted to be a police officer as a young child just to make a difference. He was going to change the city of Melvindale one criminal at a time."

VIDEO: Melvindale mayor speaks about slain officer Mohamed Said Melvindale mayor speaks about slain officer Mohamed Said

Lopez is due back in court on September 3rd. However, Judge Clifton says that date is subject to change.

A Detroit man has been charged in connection to a wrong-way crash along I-75 that killed a Hazel Park man last August.

According to Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, 42-year-old Damien Thomas has been charged with operating while intoxicated causing death and reckless driving causing death.

Drasan Clanton, 26, died in a crash after a wrong-way driver got on southbound I-75 in the wrong direction in southwest Detroit. The driver hit Clanton's car head-on near Clark Avenue, killing him.

As the one-year anniversary of the crash approaches Monday, Clanton's family told us on Thursday they were still waiting for someone to be arrested and charged.

Those charges came on Friday.

"I just want my son back and I want Justice for him. Its hard knowing that somebody who did this and is responsible is not being held accountable, just living their life like nothing happened and something happened. His life mattered," said Kim Clanton of her son."You cannot heal. Its very challenging and I look at everybody else because Im stuck on August 26, 2023."

Clanton says losing her son was the most challenging thing she's faced. She says it was especially hard knowing her son had traveled so many miles as a truck driver for FedEx only to lose his life in a car crash on a night off hanging with family.

"One of the things that hurts the most is I dont have anything left besides pictures and videos and I just spend a lot of time here at home looking at pictures and videos and wishing I could pick him up out of there. Hes so lively and his personality shines through and I cant look at them enough because other than that its like hes fading," said Clanton.

Clanton says even her car, which her son was driving that night, is still in a tow lot as a part of the investigation.

She said she spent the last year calling the Wayne County Prosecutors office asking for answers to no avail and it wasnt until this week she was notified a prosecutor had even been assigned to the case.

"Its hard and every day its torture because every day I wake up to the nightmare that hes gone and Im not going to talk to him. Its the first thing I realize every morning that my son is gone," said Clanton.

7 News Detroit reached out to the prosecutors office to ask why the case was dragging along. While they couldnt tell us more about the timeline of the investigation, a spokesperson says they have contacted the family and a prosecutor is reviewing the case.

"I want to know that my son is resting peacefully that my spirit is resting that Ive done everything that I can do for justice for my son and Im not gonna stop. Ill never stop," said Clanton.

Monday at 7 p.m., on the crash anniversary, the Clanton family will be hosting a candlelight vigil at Felker Park in Hazel Park celebrating Drasan's life. The Clanton family is also working to launch the Drasan Justin Clanton Foundation with hopes of sponsoring one person per year to go to the truck driving school in their son's honor.

Where Your Voice Matters

The Democratic National Convention kicked off Monday in Chicago where Vice President Kamala Harris is set to formally accept the Democratic nomination for president.

President Joe Biden is expected to give the first major speech at the convention with Harris and her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz making speeches later in the week.

Democrats were welcomed into the city by thousands of protesters calling for an end to the war in Gaza. More than 50,000 people were expected to be a part of demonstrations this week including people from metro Detroit with the Abandon Biden campaign.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Biden faces protests from Arab American group during Detroit visit Biden faces protests from Arab American group during Detroit visit

The Abandon Biden movement began back in October after Israel launched a strike on Gaza following the Oct. 7th Hamas attack. The members of the Abandon Biden movement demanded President Biden call for a cease-fire to stop the bloodshed of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.

The group is now committing to abandoning Kamala Harris the same way in the November Presidential election.

FULL INTERVIEW: 'Uncommitted' movement plans protest at the Democratic National Convention 'Uncommitted' movement plans protest at the Democratic National Convention

"We believe Kamala Harris is complicit in everything that has been going on," said Hudhayfah Ahmad who is a spokesperson for the movement. "Im pretty sure that there is going to be a lot of emotion today and its just strange that theres all these voices crying out for a very specific issue and instead of listening and following through, the campaign has just decided lets barricade the convention."

Ahmad says he has seen a heavy police presence throughout the convention area with officers traveling in groups.

"Our hopes are very low in the Democratic Party. We dont believe the Democratic Party is taking this seriously and I genuinely believe that they think they can ignore this completely and still win due to the new energy that surrounds Harris/Walz," said Ahmad. "And so we dont hope to get anything out of the Democratic Party but were hoping more people are able to open their eyes, open their ears, open their hearts towards the reality that exists today which is that this administration isnt anything new. Its actually a continuation of the Biden-Harris administration."

Ahmad says if Democrats do not present practical policy changes to end the war and divest from Israel, the group's members will not vote for Democrats in November.

PREVIOUS REPORT: 'Abandon Biden' protesters speak ahead of the president's Detroit visit 'Abandon Biden' protesters speak ahead of the president's Detroit visit

The group is now telling other voters they have other options at the polls, platforming third-party candidates like Jill Stein and Cornel West.

"We are actually telling voters that they should not sit at home, that voting is a tool, a voice that they have and it should be used but not to be deterred by the fact that they dont like either candidate. Just because you dont like the Democrats or the Republicans doesnt mean that you also dont get to vote," said Ahmad.

President Joe Biden is expected to give the first major speech Monday at the convention rallying support for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. Harris and Walz are expected to make speeches on Wednesday and Thursday.

Neighbors in Lincoln Park say they are tired of their basements flooding during rain events.

On Tuesday, the city says heavy rain inundated their sewage and drainage systems. The quick falling rain resulted in several inches of sewage water and human waste into homes on River Ct. just off of Emmons Blvd.

"As soon as I turn the light switch on, I turn, look and just saw black," said Kenny Cavill as he described the flooding in his basement. "The last two times its backed up, its just been like dirty water but this is the first time weve actually witnessed peoples fecal floating."

Cavill says this is the third time this year he and his neighbors' basements have flooded, leaving behind thousands of dollars in damage. The last time their basement flooded was less than a month ago in July.

Cavill says the raw sewage water ruined clothing, appliances and they now have to gut their basement. Cavill and his wife Kelli lost several keepsakes from their recent wedding and the flood waters left behind a terrible stench.

"We pay all this money in taxes, our taxes went up. Were paying all this money to live here and we can only enjoy the top half. We cant put any belongings in the basement for fear of them getting ruined," said Cavill.

When similar flooding happened in January this year, the city launched an investigation to determine what the cause of the flooding was but neighbors say nothing has been done to prevent future floods since then. As of Wednesday, August 7th, the city said they're still waiting for results from the January investigation.

"All of us residents were kind of waiting to see what their investigation was going to turn up with and they claim one of the pumps failed but that was about all we heard," said Cavill.

7 News Detroit went to Lincoln Park City Hall Wednesday where the Mayor and City Manager declined an on camera interview. The city leaders told our crew Lincoln Park has aging infrastructure they're working to upgrade every day with a series of grants from state and federal funding totaling around $30 million.

The city manager and mayor also added that while they have received calls about raw sewage coming up during floods, it is rare. They estimate receiving about 35 calls about flooding on Tuesday.

They also say to their knowledge the water pumps, which are automated during rain events, were properly functioning yesterday.

Cavill and his neighbors say the city needs to step up so this recurring nightmare can end.

Where Your Voice Matters