A chance encounter at Detroit's tree lighting ceremony led to an unexpected act of kindness that brought three strangers together on Friday.

Dave Hillyard lost his wallet during the crowded downtown Detroit tree lighting event attended by thousands. What happened next restored his faith in humanity.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report below: Couple meets woman who returned lost wallet to their home after Detroit tree lighting

Sierra Williams, a Detroit resident working at a pop-up bar during the tree lighting, was given Hillyard's wallet by a coworker and couldn't locate a lost and found. Instead of leaving it behind, she made a decision that would surprise everyone involved.

"I'm like I want them to have their stuff because I know how it is on the weekend when you need your ID or even if you want to go out that night, so I'm like I'm just gonna take it to them when I get off. No worries," Williams said.

After her shift that same night, Williams drove from downtown Detroit to Farmington Hills to return the wallet to Hillyard's front door. Their security camera captured her dropping off the wallet with all cards and cash still inside.

"I mean, it was delivered back to the house that's just wild," Hillyard said.

What Williams didn't realize was that she had been caught on camera, and the couple was trying to find her to say thank you. Their social media post went viral.

"I was like who's looking for me because it never crossed my mind that I was on camera. Like I pressed the doorbell hoping that somebody gonna catch it," Williams said.

On Friday, Hillyard and his girlfriend Shelby Lukas met Williams at a Coffee and Bark in Berkley to express their gratitude in person.

"I greatly appreciate it," Hillyard told Williams during the meeting. "You saved a lot of heartache, that's for sure."

For Williams, the gesture came naturally.

"I just wanted them to get their stuff back. I did the right thing because that's what I was taught to do," Williams said.

Previous report: 'We owe her a lot': Stranger returns lost wallet to Farmington Hills couple's doorstep 'We owe her a lot': Stranger returns lost wallet to Farmington Hills couple's doorstep

The experience reinforced her belief in helping others.

"It feels good to be able to help someone. I feel like we're always on the go or we're always busy and it just feels good to really help somebody, actually have a community," Williams said.

Hillyard hopes their story inspires others.

"I just hope this is a good message for everybody that good people are out there still. We are surrounded by good people still. It's not all negativity," Hillyard said.

The reunion proved that sometimes, small acts of kindness can create lasting connections between strangers.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A Taylor mother is pleading for help identifying the driver who slammed into her car and fled the scene, leaving her with thousands in medical bills and no transportation.

Kristina Sinclair was turning into the driveway at her workplace on Nov. 23 when a dark-colored SUV struck her vehicle and sped away. The entire incident was captured on her employer's security camera.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report below: 'You didn't care': Taylor mom seeks answers after hit-and-run crash caught on camera

"Next thing I know, there's somebody running into me," Sinclair said.

Sinclair, who works caring for seniors, said she frequently drives down the street where the crash occurred. But this time was different.

"Suddenly, out of nowhere comes this vehicle. It moved like it was going to try to go around me on the left side and instead, it basically T-boned me and side swiped me," Sinclair said.

The driver immediately fled the scene without checking on Sinclair's condition.

"For all you know, there could've been something wrong with me and you took off and you didn't care. I can't imagine doing that to anybody," Sinclair said.

A coworker who witnessed the crash through a window immediately called police after coming outside to help.

Taylor police say they are investigating the incident but have not been able to identify a suspect so far.

Watch surveillance video of the hit-and-run crash below: Surveillance video shows cars crash during hit-and-run in Taylor

Sinclair believes the vehicle was a dark-colored SUV that sustained a flat tire and damage to the front end and passenger side following the collision.

"The hope is that because it's on camera, somebody, somewhere would know something or be like, I know that car or I know that person or this person was acting suspicious and I saw this or, you know, anything. Like every little bit, every little thing helps," Sinclair said.

The crash totaled Sinclair's car, leaving the working mother struggling financially. She says she now faces thousands of dollars in emergency room bills from the incident and has no reliable transportation to get to work.

"I can't afford a new car right now. Like this wasn't in the plan. Now I can't afford Christmas, like getting to and from work you know? I have to catch rides and things," Sinclair said.

Sinclair hopes sharing the security camera footage will help bring the hit-and-run driver to justice.

"Somebody out there has to know who did this," Sinclair said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Taylor police.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Three children found their forever homes during Washtenaw County Trial Court's Adoption Day celebration, marking a heartwarming conclusion to National Adoption Month.

The courthouse opened its doors to media for the first time since 2019, allowing cameras to capture the emotional moments as families finalized their adoptions.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report below: Three children find forever homes during Washtenaw County Adoption Day celebration

Sam Collingsworth officially adopted his wife's daughter Airi, describing the feeling as overwhelming joy.

"I'm finally adopting my wife's daughter Airi, my daughter," Collingsworth said.

For Jessica and Layne Hurd, the day represented the end of a 13-year journey. The couple brought Miles home just two days after he was born in June and couldn't imagine life without him.

"We are very excited. It feels like Christmas morning," Jessica Hurd said. "It's a testimony of Jesus and God like that's our biggest thing. Like it's his story to tell, it's not ours and when he does, we hope it points to him (Jesus)."

Despite the long wait, the Hurds said every moment was worth it.

"Bringing him home within the first two days, you forget about those 13 years of waiting. It's like if somebody told me would you do it all over again, I'd be like yeah. It's a hard 13 years, but this guy's worth it. He's totally worth it," Hurd said.

Judge Arianne Slay, who presided over the adoptions, emphasized the significance of the legal proceedings.

"The legal step where it is final and permanent and we are solidifying these relationships legally," Slay said.

According to state data from last year, more than 10,000 children are in foster care in Michigan alone, with more than 100,000 nationwide.

Slay decided to allow media coverage to raise awareness about adoption and foster care opportunities.

"This is just an amazing opportunity to bring awareness to fostering and adoption as a possibility to just grow all the love in your home," Slay said.

The judge hopes the public celebration will inspire others to consider adoption.

"I think it's time for us to get back to making sure that our families are strong and that no child is left feeling alone or not feeling secure and having the love of a family. This is an opportunity to do that," Slay said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

This year, as more people are thinking about what to buy for the holidays, they're also thinking about how much it's going to cost them, and one study shows it could cost an extra $132 on average because of tariffs.

Watch Christiana's report in the video player below Tips for saving money on Christmas shopping amid tariffs

Joann Kerber is out holiday shopping early, as she always does.

"I'm searching for gifts for my two little grandsons, who are three and five," she said. "I like to shop early. I think there's a better amount of things then."

The owners of Toy Box in Utica say this year, it's a good thing she did while there's still pre-tariff inventory and pricing.

"When the tariffs were first announced, everybody was freaking out," said co-owner Ron Manoviec. "I mean, us included. We were scared. We didn't know what was going to happen, so we started just buying. We started buying pre-tariff pricing. We started stockpiling and getting ready. We still have some of that stuff here, so prices have not gone up as much as they could have. It's coming. I mean, we're running out of stock.

Ron and Tracey Manoviec have been in the toy business for 17 years. 80 percent of their product comes from China.

"A lot of our vendors, luckily, they've eaten a lot of the increase in cost," Ron said.

They say price increases of $1-3 on some items are much more modest than expected.

"We're seeing maybe a 9 to 15 percent surcharge on some things," Tracey said. You have to manage that, you know, it could have been worse, it could have been a lot worse."

Dr. Jeff Rightmer, an expert in Global Supply Chain Management with Wayne State University, said shoppers are beginning to see more of the tariff impact.

"As we get closer and closer into the Christmas season, and I know we're already here, you're gonna see some of that inventory get worked off, and you're gonna see prices rise," Dr. Rightmer said.

Each dollar is adding up. A recent Lending Tree study estimates that tariffs could add $40.6 billion to Holiday spending, an extra $132 per shopper.

I asked Dr. Rightmer if that estimate sounded right and if it was drastic.

"I have read several studies like that that say that the prices are going to go up, and it could be an extra hundred, two hundred, three hundred dollars depending on what you're buying," Dr. Rightmer said.

"It doesn't shock me, I mean, the price of everything has gone up, groceries, everything like that," said shopper Samantha Hunter.

The rise in prices has mom Samantha Hunter getting out early and shopping local with a plan. 'Tis the season to be prepared.

"I was planning on probably spending the same as I have the past few years, but this year as a parent, I've kind of tried to lessen what I'm spending and what I'm kinda getting the kids just to kinda keep the spending down"

Where Your Voice Matters

A 91-year-old Korean War veteran received a tribute from his hometown during Southfield's annual Veterans Day celebration Friday.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report: Southfield honors 91-year-old Korean War veteran at annual Veterans Day ceremony

James Elias Jackson, who served as a Marine from 1952 to 1954, was honored with a certificate of appreciation from Mayor Ken Siver in front of friends and family at the ceremony hosted by the city's Veterans' Commission.

"The Marine Corps was my teacher," Jackson said. "When I went to the Marine Corps at the early age, I knew very little of the world and how to deal with people."

Jackson served as a combat infantry trainer, flamethrower, and bazooka operator during the Korean War. The veteran has learned much since his battlefield days, carrying lessons of leadership throughout his life as a dedicated husband, father, and UAW representative.

"I'm blessed to be a proud Marine. I served from '52 to '54," Jackson said.

Barbara Selton of the Southfield Veterans' Commission emphasized the harsh conditions veterans like Jackson endured during the Korean War.

"Many of our soldiers came back with frozen fingers from frostbite, frozen toes, just all many and all kinds of ways. He's one of those who survived," Selton said.

The ceremony was part of Southfield's annual Veterans Day tradition, bringing together local leaders, veterans, and families to honor service and sacrifice.

"So we wanted to celebrate him. Let him know that we love him, we thank him, and we will never forget the sacrifice that he made for all of us," Selton said.

Mayor Siver presented Jackson with an official certificate, reading: "In grateful appreciation and recognition for your service with the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, issued this seventh day of November 2025."

"Thanks, everyone, for being here. I will cherish this day for the rest of my life," Jackson said.

Jackson's daughter, Sonia Jackson Myles, expressed her pride in seeing her father finally receive recognition.

"My deep appreciation and dedication for service. My deep and profound love for humanity came from my father. That's who he is. And to see him receive this recognition today is such a dream come true. It is such an honor to see him receive his flowers at the ripe old age of 91," Jackson Myles said.

The Veterans Day celebration featured a 21-gun salute by the local VFW post and a wreath placement at the war memorial. MSC Industrial Supply partnered with the Michigan Disabled American Veterans nonprofit to donate socks and personal hygiene products for veterans in need.

Veterans in attendance place a rose into a vase in honor of a veteran.

Selton encouraged year-round support for veterans beyond the annual ceremony.

"Let us not wait until this day. Let us do a lot in between and then culminate in this day," Selton said.

Jackson shared the most important lesson he learned during his military service, which he has passed on to his children.

"My passion, I teach my daughters and all of my kids, is to be kind to everybody, help somebody if you can," Jackson said.

 James worked for General Motors for 49 years and retired in 1996 as an International Representative for the UAW. During his tenure, he negotiated several national agreements between GM and the UAW. He was also the Chairman of Local 668 from 1970 to 1980 in Saginaw, MI.  James was an avid golfer, winning many championships with his golf club, The Saginaw Travelers. He has been the President of the Sr. Usher Board for 30 years at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Southfield, MI.  He was married to Nella D. Jackson for 59 years before she passed in 2019.  James is a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Spending time with family is one of his favorite pastimes, in addition to watching his favorite game shows, Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud, and Raid The Cage.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Waterford police have arrested a 36-year-old ex-convict in connection with a series of home break-ins that targeted residents along the Waterford-Pontiac border over three weeks.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report: Man arrested in string of home invasions

Prentice Slaton was charged Monday by the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office with one count of second-degree home invasion, a 15-year felony. Police believe he is connected to at least five additional home invasions, with more charges pending.

The arrest came as part of what police called Operation "Kicked In," a joint investigation by special operations detectives from Waterford and White Lake townships.

"Same thing would happen, unscrew the light bulb over the door, and then they would kick the door in," Waterford Police Chief Scott Underwood said.

The break-ins typically occurred in the early morning hours. Slaton allegedly targeted homes near the Waterford-Pontiac border, taking advantage of the area's accessibility.

"It was easy to cross Telegraph and to get back to Waterford and to get into Pontiac back to Waterford as well," Underwood said.

One victim, Ashley Bruske, discovered someone had broken into her home after reviewing footage from her security cameras. The video, captured around 5:45 a.m., showed someone dressed in all black walking across her front lawn.

"Heart was racing, the officer was, like, just wait in your car. It was almost like I just want to drive away and be down the road, but at the same time, it was my house," Bruske said.

The surveillance footage helped lead to Slaton's arrest the following morning.

"The surveillance crew happened to spot him getting into this car. We were able to make a traffic stop with the help of the Oakland County Sheriff's deputies, and he was taken into custody," Underwood said.

"Between the video, the witnesses' statements, and like I said, some other investigative techniques, we were able to piece that all together, and that's what led to the arrest," he said.

Another Waterford resident, Michael Tollison, believes his family's home was also targeted.

"They ransacked our daughter's room, they ransacked our bedroom, broke the window in my son's room, and they stole some rings, they stole piggy banks of my sons, and pretty much ransacked the whole house," Tollison said. "I'm glad they were able to arrest them and get him off the streets."

Slaton has an extensive criminal history with multiple arrests for similar offenses, including home invasion and larceny, dating back to 2008. He was released on parole in August.

A second suspect who was originally arrested with Slaton as the driver has since been released pending further investigation.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Food pantry lines stretch for blocks across Detroit as the federal government shutdown has cut SNAP benefits.

See the full story in the video below

At the New Bethel Baptist Church's Forgotten Harvest Mobile Pantry on Detroit's west side, the line extended down the street and around the parking lot on Tuesday. The pantry typically serves around 250 people, but organizers estimate they saw more than 300 visitors.

"I got to be out here doing the footwork for my family, which is two houses, and I will do that. If it takes me three, I been up here three and a half hours, I'll do it again," Sonya Wilkins said.

Wilkins arrived early Tuesday morning and waited hours to reach the front of the line. Her daughter is among 1.47 million Michiganders who rely on SNAP benefits.

"They need to get together and end this. Put this food back in these babies' mouths," Wilkins said.

Local food banks and pantries report demand was already elevated this year, but lines have grown even longer since the shutdown began.

"It was a lot of people, you know, it just blew my mind," client Larry Breeden said.

Eric Bell, the director of the New Bethel Baptist Church Mobile Pantry, confirmed the increased demand and says volunteers are needed.

As politicians work to resolve the shutdown, the City of Detroit is investing $1.75 million into food banks and launched a new website to help residents locate pantries.

"In Detroit, politics has to step aside when we take care of the needs of our residents," Duggan said in a Facebook video with council members.

Since issuing a call for volunteers Friday, more than 800 people have signed up to help at pantries across the city. You can sign up to volunteer here.

Bell expressed appreciation for the city's support.

"I'm very happy with that. I'm pleased with that and I just hope that they keep up the good work," Bell said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Waterford police have arrested two people believed to be involved in a series of break-ins after a Pontiac woman's security cameras captured one of the suspects on video.

Ashley Bruske discovered her home had been burglarized Thursday morning when she returned from the gym. Her side door was damaged, and a light that should have been on was off, which immediately raised red flags.

Watch Christiana Ford's video report below: Waterford PD arrest 2 in string of break-ins, Pontiac woman's cameras capture a suspect

"I had already backed out at this point, but you can see the door is cracked and that light was off and that's what triggered in my head, that's unusual," Bruske said.

When she checked her security cameras, she saw footage time-stamped at 5:45 a.m. showing someone dressed in all black walking across her front lawn.

"That's when it became real. Like there's a real person that is doing something inside my house, outside of my house, I don't know where they are right now," Bruske said.

The video shows the suspect possibly carrying items in their hands. The thief had kicked in her door and rummaged through her bedroom, stealing cellphones, a work bag and jewelry that belonged to her late grandmother.

"I couldn't even go out and buy it again, or it's just something that directly correlates to how she carried herself and it's something I was proud of to have because I knew when she was wearing those items she was proud," Bruske said.

Waterford police announced Friday morning just one day after Bruske's cameras captured the break-in that they had arrested two people possibly involved in multiple break-ins in the area. Police believe one of the arrested suspects is the person seen in Bruske's security video.

"The video I have of him, I think it'll trigger something for someone. Clearly he dressed to break into houses," Bruske said.

While she waits for charges to be filed, the arrests provide some peace of mind.

"Hopefully, it never happens again," Bruske said.

Bruske's dog safely slept through the entire incident. Her cat was also safe.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.