A Canton intersection has long been a bane to drivers in that area. It's the spot where Michigan Avenue and Sheldon Road intersect near Geddes Road.
A viewer tipped us off to problems there after 7 News Detroits Randy Wimbley spent the day there connecting with community members and stakeholders.
Standing here at the light, I had to pull out because the grass was so high and I was hard to see, I was in a low vehicle, and a pickup truck just ran me right over, Marta Gervais said.
It's one story after another.
Yes, it's a lot of accidents. I've actually lost a classmate - driver coming the wrong way hit her head on, Jazmine Williams said.
Canton Township records show there's been 157 crashes in this area since 2020. The causes range from careless driving to failing to yield, improper lane use, to being unable to stop in an assured clear distance (tailgating).
The causes for those crashes we see that everywhere all the time, and all of that is driver behavior. People going too fast, they're speeding, they're not using their turn signal, MDOT Spokeswoman Diane Cross said.
Gervais says it's not just about drivers but also the layout of the roads. At the intersection, you have Michigan Avenue, which is a state road, Sheldon, which is a county road, and Geddes, which cuts through both. All of it can be confusing for some drivers.
I think it's a bad design. Nobody pays attention, Gervais said.
Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham Hudak says they are working with the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) to make the intersection more efficient.
Roundabout, four-way stop, or maybe just not allowing on Geddes right there at all, make them go down to Canton Center to turn onto Geddes, Graham-Hudak said. We're waiting for experts to tell us the best way to do this.
Until then, Graham-Hudak is urging drivers to be attentive, alert, and take care.
Interview: Canton Township supervisor shares more on problematic intersection Interview: Canton Township supervisor shares more on problematic intersection
Were trying to promote driver safety all over Canton, but definitely thats a tricky intersection, she said. At the intersection, people have to be careful; they have to pay attention.
An American military veteran was fatally shot after he hijacked a small passenger plane in Belize on Thursday, officials in Belize and the United States confirmed.
After the Tripoc Air plane carrying 14 passengers and two crew members landed safely, police in Belize identified the hijacker as Akinyela Taylor.
Chester Williams, Belize police commissioner, said that Taylor wielded a knife and stabbed two passengers and a pilot on the plane. The three were later taken to the hospital to treat their injuries.
Williams said that Taylor was shot by a passenger who was licensed to carry a firearm, which he later turned over to police. The passenger was among those stabbed and remains in critical condition as he was stabbed in the back and lungs, according to the police commissioner.
We are praying for him, Williams told reporters. Hes our hero.
Williams said that Taylor was demanding that he be flown out of the country and at one point wanted the plane to land to add fuel. U.S. Embassy spokesperson Luke Martin in Belize said Taylor insisted he be taken to the U.S.
U.S. officials did not know the cause or motive but were working with Belizean authorities to determine what happened, Martin said.
The plane was traveling from Corozal to San Pedro and Belize authorities declared a full emergency after the hijacking, which took place at around 8:30 a.m. local time, according to a statement by the Belize Airport Concession Company.
The plane circled in random directions for hours until landing safely in an airport in the coastal town of Ladyville. All passengers were accounted for, according to the BACC, and those injured were flown to a hospital for treatment.
Williams said Taylor had attempted to enter Belize through the northern border over the northern border through Mexico, but that he was refused entry. It was unclear to law enforcement how he had entered.
A new pill is helping people with Type 2 diabetes lose weight and lower blood sugar in a phase-three clinical trial. The once-a-day GLP-1 pill could be a simpler option than injections, which many people stop taking because of side effects.
The study looked at Eli Lillys experimental GLP-1 pill called orforglipron. More than 550 people with Type 2 diabetes took part, and heres what researchers found:
Participants taking the highest dose lost an average of 16 pounds over 40 weeks. That number is likely to change as participants were still losing weight when the study ended.
Also, A1C levels dropped by 1.3 to 1.6%. A1C is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar over the past three months. Why this matters is because people with diabetes cant make enough insulin, and the body needs insulin to manage blood sugar. Whats significant is that more than 65% of participants got their A1C down to 6.5% or lower. Thats the target for managing diabetes.
Small-molecule drugs like this one can sometimes carry a risk of liver issues. But Eli Lilly says they didnt see any signs of liver injury in the trial, unlike what happened with Pfizers pill.
As for the only GLP-1 pill on the market, its called Rybelsus. It does have diet restrictions and must be taken on an empty stomach. But with orforglipron, you can take it with food. Other benefits include no needles, no refrigeration and no injections to deal with.
However, there are some side effects to consider. The most common one was an upset stomach. Overall, side effects were mild to moderate, and that may explain why more than 90% of participants stayed on the pill.
Now, while GLP-1 injections work well despite their downsides, theyre pricey and out of reach for many people. And while we don't yet know the price for orforglipron, pills are usually cheaper to make. That said, the company still needs approval first.
Eli Lilly says it plans to apply for approval for weight management by the end of this year, and for type 2 diabetes in 2026. If approved, it could be a game-changer for people who need a simpler, more affordable option.
THIS WEEK ON THE DR. NANDI SHOW
If you feel life is passing you by, then join Dr. Nandi, MD, as he discusses how you can live life with passion and purpose. Thought-leader Mastin Kipp shares his powerful secrets for grabbing your life back.Β Ben Nemtin, star of The Buried Life, reveals two essential ingredients needed for living with purpose.Β And life coach Helene Stelian explains why women are afraid to make changes and provides tips on how to live a more satisfying life.Β Tune in this Monday, April 21 at 2:30 a.m. to watch "Grab Your Life Back."
The widening field in the race for Michigan governor now includes a familiar name in Lansing.
Our Lieutenant Governor, Democrat Garlin Gilchrist II, is hoping to lead our state after the upcoming election in 2026.
As with several interviews Ive done with various candidates, I asked him about his vision for our state and why he says hes uniquely qualified for the job.
I am excited to be in this race to be the next Governor of Michigan, Gilchrist said.
FULL INTERVIEW: Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist talks about Michigan gubernatorial run FULL INTERVIEW: Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist talks about Michigan gubernatorial run
Joining me for a one-on-one sit-down inside our studio, Lt. Governor Gilchrist is a name familiar to Michiganders. He tells us hes proud to have delivered for our communities.
Among his top priorities is attracting business and supporting manufacturing jobs.
Im a problem solver who likes to build solutions, and Ive seen too many people who create problems and not enough who solve them, he says.
He tells me working with both political parties is something hes done for years, and a skill the states top executive must bring to the table.
What Ive heard from people is that they are frustrated with not getting results fast enough, or progress in their community. Issues like housing, health care. Making sure our economy has a place for them today, and tomorrow, Gilchrist says. Ive delivered on 60,000 new housing units in Michigan in the last 3 years, expanding access to affordable health care across Michigan.
I also asked him about other crucial topics. He says our schools need more support, and he opposes federal cuts to the Department of Education. He wants more funding for police, fire, and infrastructure.
Governor Whitmer ran on fixing roads. To this day, people are frustrated hitting potholes. Whats your take? Weve fixed more than 20,000 miles and 1,600 bridges. Construction season just started, and every week, we are announcing a new project. Now, were looking for a long-term sustainable plan, Gilchrist says.
He says hes proud of common-sense gun laws, like requiring the safe storage of guns in the home. As a parent of 3, he says nothing is more important than keeping kids safe.
Weve seen mass shootings at MSU, Oxford, and in Rochester Hills. We need to make sure people recognize gun violence isnt acceptable. For far too long, we have accepted too much death in our communities and inner cities, Gilchrist says. We need to make sure there are background checks on every gun sale or transfer. That if a person is a danger to themselves, or others, we put an extreme risk protection order in place, or domestic abusers now its not legal for them to have firearms.
In addition, the Lt. Governor wants voters to know serving alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been an important part of his preparation for whats next.
Its given me tremendous opportunity to connect with people all over Michigan. We have the biggest state east of the Mississippi River. Ive been to all 83 counties 3 or more times. Ive gotten to know the people of Michigan, he says.
Gilchrist tells me hes also deeply concerned about the impact of tariffs on all Michigan businesses and in particular the auto industry. He says ultimately, protecting jobs is a top priority for him, and he can deliver a stable environment for business.
You can watch all our candidate interviews on our website WXYZ.com.
U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to the White House on Thursday, highlighting his ongoing stance on tariffs amidst a desire to foster stronger trade relations.
Meloni, who is the first European leader to meet with Trump since his administration unveiled a reciprocal trade agenda, is perceived as a vital conduit to the European Union. During their discussions, she expressed her ambition to "make the West great again," echoing Trumps signature slogan while emphasizing Italys need for increased liquefied natural gas imports.
Although Meloni previously voiced opposition to Trumps tariffs, she reiterated her goal of fostering dialogue and collaboration during their meeting. She extended an invitation for Trump to visit Italy and offered to facilitate a meeting with European officials to bolster their discussions further.
In a notable development, Trump announced plans for a trade deal with the European Union, stating, Oh, there will be a trade deal... very much. Meloni supported this vision, asserting confidence in reaching an agreement, saying, Im sure we can make a deal and Im here to help on that.
During a cabinet meeting earlier, Trump indicated his expectation for Italy and the EU to emerge as loyal trade partners. He has been vocal about navigating tariffs and non-tariff barriers as part of his administrations trade strategies.
Both leaders' remarks reflect a keen awareness of the geopolitical and economic landscape, particularly in light of past tensions with the EU over trade issues and tariffs, which Trump has often criticized.
Recently, Meloni was in contact with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, hinting at collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Europe. As a sign of a potential thaw in relations, the EU has paused countermeasures in response to Trumps enacted 90-day halt on reciprocal tariffs.
However, as Trump seeks to solidify trade deals with various nations, including Japan, Vietnam, and South Korea, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has raised alarms about potential economic impacts, warning of rising prices and slower growth due to the existing tariffs.
Addressing these concerns directly, Trump expressed frustration with Powell, stating, If I want him out, hell be out, signaling tension regarding the Federal Reserves independent operations.
As eyes turn toward the implications of this meeting, both Trump and Meloni's willingness to negotiate suggests a determined effort to enhance transatlantic trade partnerships.
This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen says he was denied entry into an El Savador prison on Thursday while he was trying to check on the well-being of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man who was sent there by the Trump administration in March despite an immigration court order preventing his deportation.
Van Hollen is in El Salvador to push for Abrego Garcia's release. The Democratic senator said at a news conference in San Salvador that his car was stopped by soldiers at a checkpoint about 3 kilometers from the Terrorism Confinement Center, or CECOT, even as they let other cars go on.
"They stopped us because they are under orders not to allow us to proceed," Van Hollen said.
U.S. President Donald Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele said this week that they have no basis to send him back, even as the Trump administration has called his deportation a mistake and the U.S. Supreme Court has called on the administration to facilitate his return. Trump officials have said that Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran citizen who was living in Maryland, has ties to the MS-13 gang, but his attorneys say the government has provided no evidence of that and Abrego Garcia has never been charged with any crime related to such activity.
Van Hollen's trip has become a partisan flashpoint in the U.S. as Democrats have siezed on Abrego Garcia's deportation as what they say is a cruel consequence of Trump's disregard for the courts. Republicans have criticized Democrats for defending him and argued that his deportation is part of a larger effort to reduce crime. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt held a news conference on Wednesday with the mother of a Maryland woman who was killed by a fugitive from El Salvador in 2023.
The Maryland senator told reporters Wednesday that he met with Salvadoran Vice President Flix Ulloa who said his government could not return Abrego Garcia to the United States.
"So today, I tried again to make contact with Mr. Abrego Garcia by driving to the CECOT prison," Van Hollen said, and was stopped.
Van Hollen said Abrego Garcia has not had any contact with his family or his lawyers. "There has been no ability to find out anything about his health and well being," Van Hollen said. He said Abrego Garcia should be able to have contact with his lawyers under international law.
"We won't give up until Kilmar has his due process rights respected," Van Hollen said. He said there would be "many more" lawmakers coming to El Salvador.
New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., is also considering a trip to El Salvador, as are some House Democrats.
While Van Hollen was denied entry, several House Republicans have visited the notorious gang prison in support of the Trump administration's efforts. Rep. Riley Moore, a West Virginia Republican, posted Tuesday evening that he'd visited the prison where Abrego Garcia is being held. He did not mention Abrego Garcia but said the facility "houses the country's most brutal criminals."
"I leave now even more determined to support President Trump's efforts to secure our homeland," Moore wrote on social media.
Missouri Republican Rep. Jason Smith, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, also visited the prison. He posted on X that "thanks to President Trump" the facility "now includes illegal immigrants who broke into our country and committed violent acts against Americans."
The fight over Abrego Garcia has also played out in contentious court filings, with repeated refusals from the government to tell a judge what it plans to do, if anything, to repatriate him.
Since March, El Salvador has accepted from the U.S. more than 200 Venezuelan immigrants whom Trump administration officials have accused of gang activity and violent crimes and placed them inside the country's maximum-security gang prison just outside of San Salvador. That prison is part of Bukele's broader effort to crack down on the country's powerful street gangs, which has put 84,000 people behind bars and made Bukele extremely popular at home.
Human rights groups have previously accused Bukele's government of subjecting those jailed to "systematic use of torture and other mistreatment." Officials there deny wrongdoing.
E-commerce platforms are finding themselves in the crosshairs of President Trump's new trade war.
China-founded online marketplaces Shein and Temu announced that beginning April 25 they'll bump up some prices "due to recent changes in global trade rules and tariffs."
The two e-commerce rivals released nearly identical statements announcing their decisions.
The move follows an executive order signed by President Trump to eliminate the "de minimis provision" which allowed shipments of less than $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free.
In 2023, over $1 billion worth of goods came into the U.S. under that exemption, according to the Congressional Research Service. The average shipment was valued at just $54.
Companies like Shein and Temu have depended on the exemption to transform e-commerce by delivering inexpensive goods quickly to American consumers.
"This was really helpful for goods that are very low priced so that they can get a lot of shipments out," said Dana Olsen, the director of the Center for Education and Research in Retail at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business.
Without the exemption, consumers can expect to pay more, according to Ashley Hetrick, a principal and sourcing and supply chain segment leader at accounting firm BDO.
"We absolutely expect to see price increases across the board," Hetrick said. "The extent of these tariffs, at least for those who are heavily reliant on manufacturing operations or raw materials coming out of China, are simply too high for most companies' margins to accept for a lot of your fashion-based retailers."
The price hikes from Shein and Temu could set the table for other online retailers to follow.
"We should expect to see other retailers follow suit and follow in Shein and Temu's, footsteps of bumping prices up within weeks or months," Olsen said.
Its one of Detroits most popular and historic business districts. Greektown is a Motor City landmark and everyone who visits comes away with a favorite memory of their time there. Were excited to see the area is getting a well needed $20 million makeover.
Once the renovation is completed, Monroe Street promises to be much more attractive and pedestrian-friendly. It will also be a major boost for Detroit tourism and Southeast Michigans regional economy. Greektown businesses will remain open throughout the entire construction process which is expected to wrap up in the summer of 2026.
Its an ambitious undertaking. Sidewalks will be widened to help create more outdoor patio seating for restaurants. Lighting, street signage, and brick paving will be improved. Nearly 50 trees will be planted, and outside streetscape furniture will be increased throughout the area. On the new and improved Monroe Street, youll want to park and enjoy walking up and down Greektowns scenic blocks.
This major transformation supports the core goals of the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership. First, to enhance the area, so it draws more visitors and revenue. And second, to expand opportunities for cultural, artistic, and creative event programming. This should make the district a more vibrant community for decades to come.
The partnership is receiving support from the City of Detroit, the Michigan Department of Transportation, Greektown businesses and major community stakeholders. Working together, they have created a common vision for the future of Greektown and the neighborhoods surrounding it. A revamped Greektown will draw visitors from near and far and serve as a gateway to other downtown attractions. All of this is regional economic development worth celebrating.
For the last year, the 7 Investigators have been exposing allegations of civil rights abuses and other serious problems inside a local psychiatric hospital.
The feds announced late last year that they were terminating their Medicaid contract with Pontiac General Hospital, but the 7 Investigators have now learned that the hospital is trying to stay open despite that major funding loss.
And that has some former employees upset.
Related Video: Medicare terminates funding to Pontiac General, hospital announces layoffs Medicare terminates funding to Pontiac General, hospital announces layoffs
Recipient rights officers are the people inside a psychiatric hospital who are there to protect patients rights by investigating abuse and neglect. And now two of the former recipient rights officials from Pontiac General Hospital have come forward to us with allegations of serious problems inside the hospital.
A patient allegedly assaulted by a mental health worker inside his room, another patient tied down in restraints while being given a shot, bruises on patients, staff sitting on developmentally disabled patients, and staff sleeping on the job those are just some of the allegations two of the people who were once in charge of investigating patient complaints say have been serious problems for years inside Pontiac General Hospital.
"Out of a five-star hospital. I wouldn't even give them a one star ... it was sad and disgusting," said Valerie Linteau, a former recipient rights officer.
The 7 Investigators have been investigating Michigans psychiatric commitment process as well as Pontiac General Hospital since 2022. Patients allege their civil rights were violated inside the privately owned psychiatric hospital.
Related Video: Michigan doc pre-signed blank forms that can rob you of your freedom Michigan doc pre-signed blank forms that can rob you of your freedom
"It was a nightmare for me. It was a nightmare for my family," said Bri Jackson, a former patient who says she was hospitalized against her will.
In November, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) told Pontiac General they were terminating their contract due to noncompliance with several things, including patient rights and medical staff. That means the hospital can no longer bill Medicare or Medicaid.
"I'm happy that the spotlight is on them and there are going to be consequences and they can stop doing what they're doing to people," said Jackson.
But records obtained by the 7 Investigators show that Pontiac Generals leadership believed their CMS termination would be temporary. And mental health watchdogs say they were told the psychiatric facility is also attempting to get accreditation from The Joint Commission, a nonprofit that evaluates hospitals for safety and cleanliness.
"I've heard patients say that they were more suicidal leaving the hospital than they were even going into the hospital to begin with, and that their symptoms were much worse leaving the hospital," said Linteau.
Hospital records show Valerie Linteau was Pontiac Generals Recipient Rights Officer from June of 2023 until January 2024.
Hospital emails say Linteau was fired for using her personal phone to conduct work and she was accused of deleting files but she alleges she was actually terminated for alerting the state about the conditions inside the psychiatric facility.
"I liked feeling like I was someone's hope, or trying to be that person who they felt that they were heard and they were listened to," said Linteau.
Photos taken in 2023
As Recipient Rights Officer, Linteau says she often had to investigate allegations of staff assaulting the psychiatric patients.
In a video from December of 2023, a staff member appears to draw his arm back as if to punch a patient lying on a bed.
"What was your reaction when you saw that video?" I asked Linteau.
"I had a stomach-sinking experience. I thought I was going to vomit. I got chills and goosebumps and I physically cried because it is devastating seeing that," she said.
Linteau said the patients records reveal that an X-ray showed a small skull fracture, and police reports show sheriffs deputies interviewed the patient who said the employee hit and punched him. The employee denied that in the police report, but Linteau says the patient was badly injured.
LISTEN: 911 call from Pontiac General Hospital LISTEN: 911 call out of Pontiac General Hospital
"So when CMS came for the patient with the reported skull fracture, I had informed them that we had over 150 investigations from the months of April to June," said Linteau.
Linteau also said she substantiated another patients allegations of abuse after discovering he had been shoved into an isolation room. She said thats the same patient that was given a shot while in 4-point restraints something mental health advocates do not condone.
Youre supposed to use the least amount of force necessary," said Simon Zagata, the Director of the Community and Institutional Rights Team with Disability Rights Michigan, a federally designated rights agency.
Zagata said many shots are considered chemical restraints and should be used rarely.
Once the restraint happens, under the law, its supposed to end as soon as the conditions or the behavior leading to the restraint are gone," he said.
Darius Hardrick said he too was drowning in patient complaints at Pontiac General Hospital, when he was the Recipient Rights Officer from January to July of 2023.
"Actual physical abuse. I've seen patients getting beat on," said Hardrick.
He said the number of complaints was too much for one person.
"They would just ignore me, ignore me, ignore me," said Hardrick. "Seven or more complaints per floor ... per day"
Hardrick said he left because he met so many obstacles from hospital management.
"They would just railroad me and try to take over the investigation," he said.
According to the most recent available state data, in 2023 Pontiac General had 235 allegations of abuse and neglect. Of those allegations, 148 recipient rights cases were investigated, and 57 were substantiated.
CMS reports show investigators found more examples of abuse and neglect when they started inspecting the hospital last spring, uncovering the death of patient Ryan White, and other serious violations of patient safety.
"The complaints we got before we went in were, we are not getting real therapy. Theyre not helping address the issues I came in here for ... a lot of facility issues, like a broken window ... holes in the walls," said Zagata.
Disability Rights Michigan has visited the hospital several times recently. After CMS terminated Pontiac Generals contracts, Zagatas team was onsite, where they noticed the hospitals physical environment had improved, but there were only four patients still inside. Zagata said thats when his team learned the hospital is seeking accreditation through The Joint Commission.
"Showing that you can adequately care for four patients is a completely different ball game than showing that you can take care of 100+ patients at a time in an inpatient setting ... we have just not seen a history of an ability to treat patients well," he said.
Both Linteau and Hardrick say theyre extremely concerned the hospital will be granted accreditation, and both say they do not think the facility should get its Medicaid contracts reinstated.
"I am very surprised to see its still operating," said Hardrick.
"It was atrocious and it was very disheartening to see everything that was going on in the hospital," said Linteau.
The 7 Investigators have reached out several times to the owners of Pontiac General Hospital. So far, they have not responded to our mulitple requests for comment.
As for the Joint Commission, they issued the following statement:
"Pontiac General Hospital is not a Joint Commission-accredited facility.We do not comment on whether a healthcare organization is or is not seeking Joint Commission accreditation, as that information is confidential.Any healthcare organization that seeks Joint Commission accreditation must first meet compliance with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Conditions of Participation (CoPs) and provide care, treatment and services in accordance with licensure requirements, laws, rules and regulations. They must also meet additional Joint Commission standards, which focus on important processes and organization functions essential to providing safe and quality care.To find a Joint Commission-accredited organization, visit our
Nearly two weeks after 17-year-old London Thomas was reported missing, her family and friends gathered at Hines Park in Westland on Thursday to continue the search for the teen.
Thomas was last seen on April 5 with her boyfriend on Carlyle Street in Inkster, according to Detroit police. Her cellphone was last pinged in the area of Cooper Upper Elementary School on Ann Arbor Trail in Westland.
Related Video: Search continues for missing 17-year-old London Thomas Search continues for missing 17-year-old London Thomas
Her mother, Jasma Bennett, said the disappearance is entirely out of character.
She was very connected to her sisters, Bennett said. They didnt go a day without talking to each other, no matter where they were or what they did. So all of this is strange, we havent talked to her, we havent seen her, we know nothing.
Bennett said the man Thomas was dating is 23 years old.
Watch our full interview with London Thomas' mom in the video player below: Full interview: Mom of London Thomas talks about daughter's disappearance
Detroit police say they are investigating the possibility of foul play and have identified two persons of interest. Multiple search warrants have been executed as the investigation continues.
We are looking into possible foul play, said Detroit Major Crimes Commander Rebecca McKay. We do have two persons of interest right now that we are investigating.
Thursday's search marked the second time the family has organized efforts to find Thomas.
Shell be 18 on May 10, and that makes it even worse, Bennett said.
Thomas stepfather, Darnell Johnson, said the family is doing everything they can to stay hopeful.
At this point, Im trying not to lose hope. Im trying not to lose faith, he said.
Bennett described her daughter as an outspoken teen with a soft heart, a love for music and hair, and a butterfly tattoo on her neck.
Please, just come home, she pleaded. I dont care what reason, just come home.
She asked the community for their prayers, "Please, for us and our family, please, 'cause this is all we have."
Anyone with information about London Thomas whereabouts is asked to call 1-800-SPEAK-UP or Detroit Rewards TV.
This story was reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Mid-Michigan District Health Department are confirming measles cases in Montcalm County now meet the definition of an outbreak.
An outbreak is declared when there are three or more related cases of a disease. There are currently three confirmed cases in Montcalm County, and seven total in Michigan. This is the state's first confirmed outbreak of Measles since 2019.
This outbreak underscores how contagious measles is and how quickly it can spread, said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive, in a news release. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine remains our best defense, and two doses of MMR offer 97% protection against measles. We urge all Michigan residents to check their vaccination records to ensure they are up to date with the MMR vaccine.
The Montcalm outbreak is linked to a larger, ongoing outbreak in Ontario. As of now, MDHHS says there are no new public exposure sites in Michigan. The Montcalm cases are also not related to the cases in other Michigan counties.
MDHHS has released the following general information about Measles:
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through direct person-to-person contact and through the air. Anyone who is not immune to measles is at risk. Measles symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after contact with the virus, but can take up to 21 days. Common measles symptoms can include: <ul><li>High fever (may spike to over 104F).</li><li>Cough.</li><li>Runny nose.</li><li>Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).</li><li>Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots).</li></ul>A rash that starts as flat red spots on the face at the hairline, then spreads to the trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin. Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots. If you feel you may have been exposed, or if symptoms develop, call your health care provider before seeking treatment so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to other individuals. The best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine, which provides long-lasting protection against the virus. MDHHS and MMDHD strongly encourage individuals ages 1 year and older who have not received the MMR vaccine to do so promptly to protect themselves and others. Vaccines are available at your doctors office, most pharmacies and your local health department. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive no-cost vaccination at a provider enrolled in that program. It is possible that individuals vaccinated prior to 1968 received a less-effective version of the vaccine; those individuals should contact their health care provider or local pharmacy to see if they are eligible for an additional dose. For more information on measles in Michigan, visit <a href="https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/childrenfamilies/immunizations/measlesupdates?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery" link-data="{"cms.site.owner":{"_ref":"00000166-21ae-df00-ab7e-f1af3fa00000","_type":"ae3387cc-b875-31b7-b82d-63fd8d758c20"},"cms.content.publishDate":1744917431411,"cms.content.publishUser":{"_ref":"00000165-a645-d3c9-a3fd-e74588640000","_type":"6aa69ae1-35be-30dc-87e9-410da9e1cdcc"},"cms.content.updateDate":1744917431411,"cms.content.updateUser":{"_ref":"00000165-a645-d3c9-a3fd-e74588640000","_type":"6aa69ae1-35be-30dc-87e9-410da9e1cdcc"},"link":{"attributes":[],"url":"https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/childrenfamilies/immunizations/measlesupdates?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery","_id":"00000196-452e-deec-a9b7-d53fbf290001","_type":"ff658216-e70f-39d0-b660-bdfe57a5599a"},"linkText":"Michigan.gov/Measles","_id":"00000196-452e-deec-a9b7-d53fbf290000","_type":"809caec9-30e2-3666-8b71-b32ddbffc288"}">Michigan.gov/Measles</a>.
In the midst of consequential and controversial executive actions in Washington, one notable trend has emerged: a significant decline in the number of new laws passed.
According to Punchbowl News, President Trump has signed just five bills into law during his administration, marking the fewest for a new president in seven decades. By comparison, President Trump signed 24 bills into law during the first 100 days of his first term.
The limited number of new laws during this early phase of his current presidency has raised questions, especially given that Republicans currently control the House, Senate, and White House.
The low legislative output could be attributed to Republican leaders in Congress aligning with President Trump on a strategy focused on a comprehensive spending bill referred to as the "one big beautiful bill." This legislation is expected to include changes to tax laws and allocate taxpayer funds for significant projects, such as enhancing border security.
A vote on this spending bill is anticipated as soon as next month, although timelines may shift due to potential delays.
While the number of new laws has dwindled, the Trump administration has been marked by a significant number of executive orders. Just weeks ago, President Trump set a record for the most executive orders issued, surpassing a previous benchmark set by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Additionally, there has been unprecedented legal activity, with various federal district judges intervening to block parts of the Trump agenda.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the focus remains on the balance between executive actions and legislative achievements in Washington. Stay tuned for further updates on these developments.
This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
The Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on the case of the Trump administration's efforts to end birthright citizenship.
An order from the court on Thursday set arguments in the case for the morning of May 15, 2025.
In March, the administration asked the high court to allow restrictions on birthright citizenship to go into partial effect while legal challenges against the changes play out.
Three federal appeals courts declined to hear the administration's case. Court orders by district judges in Maryland, Massachusetts and Washington currently block the changes to birthright citizenship law.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order shortly after taking office that would deny U.S. citizenship to anyone born in the U.S. after Feb. 19 whose parents were in the country illegally. Currently, virtually all children born in the U.S. are granted citizenship regardless of their parents' immigration status.
President Trump's order "conflicts with the plain language of the 14th Amendment contradicts 125-year-old, binding Supreme Court precedent, and runs counter to our nation's 250-year history of citizenship by birth," the Maryland judge said at the time. "The United States Supreme Court has resoundingly rejected the president's interpretation of the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. In fact, no court in the country has ever endorsed the president's interpretation. This court will not be the first."
President Donald Trump's tariffs could affect rent prices in several growing markets, according to a new report from Realtor.com.
According to the report, average rent prices have fallen $65 per month in the last three years as inflation has subsided. But the report suggests that several growing markets could prices go up again.
President Trump's 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports could drive up the cost of newly built residences. Those costs, Realtor.com, could be passed along to consumers. The report also suggests some builders might opt not to go through with finishing construction due to increased costs.
The report suggests that Milwaukee, Oklahoma City and Memphis, Tenn., are having the fastest growth in permitted multifamily homes.
Six other markets Cleveland, Columbus, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Birmingham and San Diego - could also face increasing rents.
"While the median asking rent is down $65 monthly or over $700 annually, in nearly every major U.S. metro rents are still considerably higher than 2019," said Joel Berner, senior economist at Realtor.com. "We have seen declines in rents largely due to robust multi-family building and permitting adding more rental options in many metros. This tailwind is currently under threat as developers grapple with the short-term and long-term impacts of new and evolving tariffs on building materials. For renters in cities with declining rents, it might be a good time to lock in a good rate for the next year or beyond."
The report notes that even markets that aren't growing could be impacted the tariffs, "As rising construction costs could further dampen new development plans, restricting supply and continuing to exert upward pressure on rental prices," said Berner.
Realtor.com says the average cost of monthly rent in March 2025 was $1,694.
President Donald Trump has indicated he may pause his administrations recently implemented 25% tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, which took effect earlier this month. This potential halt has propelled global stock markets upward this week, but leaves automakers in a challenging position as they adapt to these changes.
The auto market is driven by reliability, safety, and affordability, but the presidents tariffs are prompting manufacturers to rethink their strategies to capture consumer interest and spending.
I think what were seeing out of the gate here is a lot of the domestics want to establish themselves as very good value, said Tyson Jominy, vice president of data and analytics at J.D. Power.
In a rush to beat the tariffs, American consumers flocked to dealerships prior to their implementation. Ford reported a 5% sales increase in its first-quarter report, with a remarkable 19% surge in March alone. Meanwhile, Cox Automotive noted a 27% rise in visits to Kelley Blue Book, and Dealer.com reported a 54% spike in users searching for the best deals on new vehicles.
As consumer behavior shifts, manufacturers are working to differentiate their brands.
Certainly the tariffs are yet another challenge for automakers to stand out and alter their brand perception in consumers minds, Jominy explained.
A recent Cox Automotive analysis revealed that the 25% tariff will affect nearly 80% of vehicles priced under $30,000, including popular models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Trailblazer, and Nissan Sentra.
In response to the tariffs, some automakers have already launched sales discounts and price assurance programs. Ford announced employee pricing for all U.S. customers through June 2, while companies like Mitsubishi and Volvo are cutting back on incentives as they brace for potential financial strain from the tariffs.
Jominy warns that if the tariffs are not repealed, they could have long-lasting effects on the automotive industry.
We may see some brands have to leave the U.S., resulting in fewer options for consumers and possibly changing market dynamics, he said.
This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
A 20-year-old Florida State University student and son of a sheriff's deputy opened fire on campus Thursday just before noon, killing two people and injuring multiple others, according to police.
The suspect, identified by authorities as Phoenix Ikner, started shooting just before noon using a handgun that he had access to from his mother, who is a sheriff's deputy with the Leon County Sheriff's Office, according to Leon Sheriff Walt McNeil.
A spokesperson for Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare told the Scripps News Group that it was treating six patients in relation to the shooting, ranging from serious to critical condition.
Police said the suspected shooter was transported to the hospital with injuries after being "neutralized" by campus officers.
McNeil said the suspect's mother is not currently on leave from the sheriff's office. He added that the suspected shooter is also a longstanding member of the sheriff's office youth advisory council.
"He has been steep in the Leon County Sheriff's Office family, engaged in a number of training programs that we have, so it's not a surprise to us that he had access to weapons," McNeil said.
Police said the suspect also had a shotgun that was recovered from the scene, but, at this point in the investigation, they do not believe the shotgun was used during the shooting.
The school's alert system ordered students and faculty to seek shelter and await further instructions, just after the shooting began. It also stated that law enforcement was responding to the Student Union area.
Campus police engaged with the suspect "almost immediately," according to police.
About three hours later, the Tallahassee Police Department said on X that the campus had been secured, but it was still an active crime scene as the investigation is ongoing.
Scripps News Group Correspondent Forrest Saunders saw multiple ambulances at the scene with possible victims, including one that appeared to be the suspect being transported as officers were observed placing shackles on the person.
The Tallahassee Police Department said a student reunification point was being established at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.
The Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Jacksonville branch said agents are working with local law enforcement to assist in the investigation.
Speaking from the Oval Office, President Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the situation and called it a "shame" and "a horrible thing."
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis posted to X, "Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding."
This is the second time over the last decade that Florida State University has had an active shooter on campus. In 2014, a 31-year-old gunman opened fire near the main campus library and injured three people before he was killed by police.
WATCH | Gun violence prevention activist sounds off on FSU shooting, importance of gun safety
Gun violence prevention activist sounds off on the deadly FSU shooting
Our Grant Me Hope child this week is 14-year-old Arabella, who goes by Bella. According to the Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE), Bella loves Squishmallows and owns a good collection already.
"On weekends I like to go to my friends houses and just watch movies, shows and eat snacks. That's just fun because me and friends actually get to hang out. And on the other weekends, I like to hang out with my grandma," Bella said.
She also loves frogs, giraffes and bunnies, and she wants to visit Japan one day.
I truly believe Arabella can achieve amazing things in life, says one of her close adults. She can be such a kind, helpful person. Arabella enjoys getting a lot of attention and likes being involved with family members. Arabella is mostly an out-going girl.
Arabella would do best with a parent or parents who can give her the guidance, supervision and attention that will help her thrive. Her parent or parents should be experienced and trauma informed and willing to make sure Arabella receives any support services she requires. Arabella can be placed in a family with or without other children. Her new parent or parents must be open and accepting of Arabella, and as she says, meet me where Im at.
Aid groups are raising new alarm over Israel's blockade of the war-ravaged Gaza Strip, where it has barred entry of all food and other goods for more than six weeks. Thousands of children have become malnourished, and most people are barely eating one meal a day as stocks dwindle, the United Nations says.
The humanitarian aid system in Gaza "is facing total collapse," the heads of 12 independent aid organizations warned in a joint statement. They said many groups have shut down operations because Israel's resumed bombardment the past month has made it too dangerous.
Israeli strikes overnight into Thursday killed at least 23 people, including a family of 10.
A strike in the southern city of Khan Younis killed five children, four women and a man from the same family, all of whom suffered severe burns, according to Nasser Hospital, which received the bodies. Strikes in northern Gaza killed 13 people, including nine children, according to the Indonesian Hospital.
The Israeli military says it targets Hamas militants and tries to limit civilian casualties. It often strikes homes, shelters and public areas, blaming Hamas for civilian deaths because it operates there. There was no immediate comment on the latest strikes.
Israel ended a ceasefire on March 18 and renewed its bombardment, killing hundreds of people and seizing large parts of the territory to pressure Hamas to accept changes to the deal that would speed the release of hostages.
Nearly all rely on charity kitchens
The U.N. humanitarian office, known as OCHA, said almost all of Gaza's more than 2 million people now rely on charity kitchens, which can prepare only 1 million meals a day. The meals mainly consist of rice or pasta with no fresh vegetables or meat.
Other food distribution programs have shut down for lack of supplies, and the U.N. and other aid groups have been sending their remaining stocks to the charity kitchens.
The only other way to find food in Gaza is from markets. But prices are spiraling and shortages are widespread, meaning humanitarian aid is the primary food source for 80% of the population, the World Food Program said in its monthly report for April.
"The Gaza Strip is now likely facing the worst humanitarian crisis in the 18 months" since the war began, OCHA said.
Most people in Gaza are now down to one meal a day, said Shaina Low, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Refugee Council. "It's far lower than what is needed," she said.
Water is also growing scarce, with Palestinians standing in long lines to fill jerry cans from trucks. Omar Shatat, an official with a local water utility, said people are down to six or seven liters per day, well below the amount the U.N. estimates is needed to meet basic needs.
More hungry children, and they are harder to reach
In March, more than 3,600 children were newly admitted for treatment for acute malnutrition, up from around 2,000 the month before, according to OCHA, which said "the rapid deterioration of the nutrition situation is already visible."
Aid groups are also less able to treat malnourished children because of Israel's airstrikes and ground operations.
In March, the number of children under 5 that aid workers could supply with nutrient supplements fell 70% from February, down to 22,300 children a fraction of the 29,000 children they aim to reach. Only around 100 of the original 173 treatment sites still function, OCHA said.
"Humanitarians have been forced to watch people suffer and die while carrying the impossible burden of providing relief with depleted supplies, all while facing the same life-threatening conditions themselves," said Amande Bazerolle, the emergency coordinator in Gaza for Doctors Without Borders.
"This is not a humanitarian failure it is a political choice, and a deliberate assault on a people's ability to survive, carried out with impunity," she said in a statement.
Israeli bombardment endangers aid workers
A survey of 47 aid groups found that 95% of them have reduced or entirely halted their operations, mainly because it was too dangerous amid Israeli bombardment, according to the joint statement by the heads of humanitarian organizations, which included the Norwegian Refugee Council, Oxfam, Save the Children, CARE and Medical Aid for Palestinians.
Since resuming the war, Israel has largely stopped coordinating with humanitarian groups over their movements in Gaza. That means aid workers have no assurance the military won't strike them. COGAT, the military agency in charge of aid coordination in Gaza, acknowledged stopping the system, which had been in place before the ceasefire.
Since mid-March, Israeli fire has hit the staff or facilities of at least 14 organizations, and around 60 aid workers have been killed, according to the statement.
"When our staff and partners, our convoys, our offices, our warehouses are shelled, the message is loud and clear: even lifesaving aid is no longer protected," the 12 aid organization heads said. "This is unacceptable."
Israel says the blockade is a pressure tactic
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Wednesday that blocking aid is one of the "central pressure tactics" used against Hamas, which Israel accuses of siphoning off aid to maintain its rule. Aid workers deny there is significant diversion of aid, saying the U.N. closely monitors the distribution of supplies.
Israel is demanding that Hamas release more hostages at the start of any new ceasefire and ultimately agree to disarm and leave the territory. Katz said that even afterward, Israel will continue to occupy large "security zones" inside Gaza.
Hamas is currently holding 59 hostages, 24 of whom are believed to be alive. It says it will only return them in exchange for the release of more Palestinian prisoners, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting truce, as called for in the now-defunct ceasefire agreement reached earlier this year.
Hani Almadhoun, co-founder of Gaza Soup Kitchen, said his kitchen has food for about three more weeks.
"But food is loosely defined. We have pasta and rice but nothing much beyond that. No fresh produce. There is no chicken or beef. The only thing we have is canned meat," he said. Up to one in five of those who come to his kitchen for food leave empty-handed, he said..
The war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting 251. Most of the hostages have since been released in ceasefire agreements or other deals. Israel has rescued eight and recovered dozens of bodies.
Israel's offensive has killed over 51,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were civilians or combatants. Israel says it has killed around 20,000 militants, without providing evidence.
The war has destroyed vast parts of Gaza and most of its food production capabilities. The war has displaced around 90% of the population, with hundreds of thousands of people living in tent camps and bombed-out buildings.
Dearborn Heights police are asking the public for any leads or information regarding a missing 16-year-old girl they believe to be in danger.
Police say that Tasia Keaton left Vista Maria, a social services housing facility, on March 14, and was last seen in the Detroit area.
We just want, at minimum, a phone call, knowing that she's still OK, or hopefully a location if she isn't OK, so that we can come get her," said Trisha Wade, Tasia Keaton's aunt.
Wade says Tasia's mom died of a cancerous brain tumor and her father is not in the picture.
Taisa just had a very troubled past," said Wade.
The Dearborn Heights Police Chief, Ahmed Haidar, said they believe the teen was later picked up by someone, assaulted and taken to a local hotel before being brought back to the area of Stout Street and Joy Road.Β
WATCH: Dearborn Heights police hold press conference on missing teen Dearborn Heights Police hold press conference on missing teen
The next day, they believe she was picked up again and taken to a hotel in Redford and assaulted.
The chief said she was last seen in the area of Joy Road and Beech Daly; she was reportedly spotted on camera heading southbound on Beech Daly on March 17. They haven't had any footage or contact with her since.
Weve been working around the clock to locate her, said Chief Haidar.Β
Tasia is described as a white female, about 52 and 130 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes.Β
The chief said they are looking for any information or new leads in this case.
For us, we just want to put this out there to the public so we can develop more tips, more information, said Chief Haidar.Β
Multiple departments have assisted in the investigation. A $5,500 reward is being offered for any tips that lead to her whereabouts.Β
If you have seen Tasia, or have any information, please contact the Dearborn Heights Police Department at 313-277-6770.
Login
