Oil Tanker Overturns in Delhi Township

An oil tanker overturned early Thursday morning in Delhi Township, according to Ingham County authorities. The incident occurred on Grovenburg Road between Holt and Horstmeyer roads. No injuries were reported.

Benson and James Clash Over Gas Prices in Gubernatorial Debate

Michigan gubernatorial candidates Jocelyn Benson, the Democratic nominee, and Republican Congressman John James faced off in another debate Wednesday night in Detroit, addressing several issues ahead of the November election, including high gas prices.

Benson criticized James for not taking action to suspend the federal gas tax, saying she was the first candidate in the race to call for the suspension.

James countered that he had called for repealing both the state and federal gas taxes. He accused Benson of contributing to the financial strain Michigan residents face at the pump.

The debate came during a busy day of political campaigning across the state.

El-Sayed Campaigns on Health Care Access as Vance Backs Republicans

Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed rallied supporters in Escanaba on Thursday, emphasizing his call for expanded health care access and Medicare for All.

El-Sayed said his health care proposal would help Americans build stable lives without needing multiple jobs to make ends meet.

Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance campaigned in Monroe in support of Michigan Republicans, including U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers, who is running against El-Sayed.

Vance criticized El-Sayed, accusing him of embracing what he described as a politics of grievance rather than expressing pride in the country.

Consumers Energy Customers Face Natural Gas Rate Increase

Consumers Energy natural gas customers will see higher bills beginning November 1 after the Michigan Public Service Commission approved a rate increase of nearly $140 million.

The average customer is expected to pay nearly $4 more per month as a result of the increase.

East Lansing Police Make 16 Arrests During MSU Homecoming

East Lansing police arrested 16 people during Michigan State University's homecoming festivities last weekend and issued as many as 80 citations.

Police also confiscated six guns during traffic stops, according to the department.

Michigan Attorney General Sues Ticket and Memorabilia Vendor

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed a lawsuit against Hillgate A2 LLC and its owner, John Klein, over allegations involving fraudulent tickets and undelivered sports memorabilia.

The lawsuit, filed October 8 in Wayne County Third Circuit Court, alleges the company sold fake tickets to University of Michigan football games and concerts at Michigan Stadium. It also accuses the business of failing to deliver purchased tickets and merchandise or issue refunds, unlawfully claiming affiliations with the university, and making false or misleading representations to customers.

Nessel is seeking monetary damages, civil fines and a complete ban on the company's business operations.

Google Data Center Project Approved in Van Buren Township

A major Google data center project in Van Buren Township has cleared a planning hurdle despite opposition from nearby residents.

Planning commissioners in the Wayne County community approved plans for a facility measuring nearly 1.5 million square feet near Interstates 94 and 275.

The approval moves the proposed project forward despite concerns raised by residents living in the surrounding area.

Teen Critically Injured in Jackson Officer-Involved Shooting

A 16-year-old boy is critically injured following an officer-involved shooting Wednesday in Jackson near the county fairgrounds.

According to police, officers were pursuing the teenager on foot when he allegedly pulled out a handgun and pointed it directly at them, prompting officers to open fire.

The incident began with a welfare check involving the juvenile, who had previously been reported missing. All officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, and Michigan State Police have taken over the investigation.

East Lansing Police Shoot and Kill Escaped Cow

East Lansing police shot and killed a cow Wednesday after the animal escaped or fell from a trailer on northbound U.S. 127.

The incident prompted officers to close the ramp to Lake Lansing Road. Ingham County Animal Control attempted to immobilize the animal, but those efforts were unsuccessful. The cow reportedly broke through multiple fences and had also been seen on the grounds of Robert L. Green Elementary School near a playground.

Lansing River Trail Death Remains Suspicious

Lansing police say the death of 70-year-old Denis Dunneback has been classified as indeterminate by the medical examiner's office. Investigators will continue treating the case as suspicious.

Dunneback was initially found unresponsive beneath the Kalamazoo Street Bridge last July, with apparent facial injuries and suspected vomit nearby. He died approximately a week later.

Medical information at the time raised questions about whether the incident involved an assault or a medical issue. The latest determination does not resolve those questions, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Prosecutors Decline Charges Against MSU Football Player

Clinton County prosecutors will not pursue charges against Michigan State University football player Nick Sharpe, who was accused of sexual assault last July at an apartment.

According to the prosecutor's office, an investigation identified inconsistencies in the allegations made by the woman who reported the assault. Sharpe plays offensive line for the Spartans.

Grand River Avenue Closure Planned Near Williamston

The Michigan Department of Transportation plans to close both directions of Grand River Avenue at Dietz Road from October 19 through November 6, weather permitting.

The closure will allow Consumers Energy crews to repair a road defect that reportedly remained from an earlier project. Drivers traveling through the Williamston and Webberville areas should prepare for potential delays and plan alternate routes.

Second Michigan Gubernatorial Debate Scheduled

Michigan gubernatorial candidates Democrat Jocelyn Benson and Republican John James are scheduled to meet for a second debate Thursday evening in Detroit.

The debate is set for 8 to 9 p.m. and will be moderated by WXYZ-TV anchor Jason Colthorp. The candidates previously faced off in Grand Rapids more than a week ago.

New Grocery Options Open in the Lansing Area

The Lansing-area grocery market is seeing new developments, with a grand opening scheduled Thursday for a new Aldi location on Lake Lansing Road near Wood Street in Lansing Township.

The opening follows the launch of a new Meijer Express store in East Lansing at the corner of Lake Lansing and Abbott roads.

Quality Dairy Resumes Bakery Sales

Quality Dairy customers can once again purchase donuts and rolls beginning Thursday after the company's bakery services received clearance from state agriculture officials.

The services had been interrupted following a food safety inspection last week that identified sanitation and pest-control concerns. The resumption of bakery sales follows the state's clearance.

MSUFCU Merger Awaits Regulatory Approval

A proposed merger between Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) and University Federal Credit Union of Texas is awaiting regulatory approval after both credit unions' boards approved the agreement.

Under the proposed deal, MSUFCU will continue operating under its existing name in Michigan and Illinois.

Lansing School District Breaks Ground on New School

The Lansing School District is breaking ground on a new school, the Sheridan Road School, located in the 16,000 block of Cedar Street.

Construction is being made possible through a voter-approved $130 million school bond.

Lansing Police Investigate Hit-and-Run at Avenue Cafe

Lansing police are searching for a driver allegedly involved in a hit-and-run crash Tuesday night after a vehicle struck the Avenue Cafe at Michigan Avenue and Fairview Street.

Police identified the vehicle as a red SUV. No injuries were reported.

Anyone with information about the incident may contact Lansing police.

Ingham County Reports Absentee Ballot Returns Ahead of November Election

With the November election less than three weeks away, Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum reported that 18,575 absentee ballots had been returned out of more than 70,000 mailed to voters.

According to the figures shared by Byrum, approximately 8.47% of voters had participated at the time of the update.

Voters who have received absentee ballots should review the instructions provided with their ballots to ensure they are completed and returned properly.

Lansing-Area Home Prices Remain Below National Levels

Doug Petroff of the Greater Lansing Association of Realtors discussed median home prices in the capital city area, noting that Lansing-specific prices were slightly below $200,000 at the time of his update.

Petroff contrasted the local market with national median home prices, which he said were in the $400,000 range.

The figures highlight the difference between housing costs in the Greater Lansing area and the broader national market.

Three Upper Peninsula Wildfires Continue to Burn

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources provided an update on three wildfires burning in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

The Black River Fire in Gogebic County was reported to be 50% contained. The Ridge Fire in Negaunee Township and the Craig Lake Fire in Baraga County were each 20% contained.

The fires were reported to cover areas ranging from approximately 300 to 600 acres.

Escaped Cow Briefly Disrupts Traffic on US-127

An unusual traffic incident occurred Tuesday morning when a cow nicknamed “Houdini” escaped or apparently fell out of a trailer, according to East Lansing police.

The animal temporarily affected traffic on the US-127 northbound ramp to Lake Lansing Road at approximately 11 a.m.

Police indicated that Houdini appeared to be okay.

Lansing residents are calling for an emergency overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness following five deaths along the city's river trail over the past year, amid growing concerns about a possible serial killer.

During Monday night's Lansing City Council meeting at City Hall, a street outreach leader spoke about the fear facing people living outdoors and urged city officials to take immediate action to protect them.

Residents called on the council to temporarily halt park sweeps and reconsider restrictions that prohibit people from sleeping in city parks after 9 p.m. The outreach leader emphasized that the council is the only body able to rescind the restriction.

Police have arrested one person in connection with one of the deaths, while investigations into the remaining cases continue. The circumstances surrounding the deaths have heightened concerns among people experiencing homelessness and those who work with them.

Charlotte Man Bound Over for Trial on Criminal Sexual Conduct Charges

A 77-year-old Charlotte man has been bound over for trial on criminal sexual conduct charges involving an apartment tenant.

Police identified the man as Joseph Fix, who faces three counts as part of a larger investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior. The transcript did not provide additional details about the allegations or the next court date.

Whitmer Declares Energy Emergency Amid Record Diesel Prices

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of energy emergency in response to record-high diesel prices.

The executive order temporarily suspends certain regulations affecting farm and forestry vehicles. The move is intended to provide relief to agricultural producers and loggers dealing with financial pressure from tighter global fuel supplies and market volatility.

Vice President Vance, Former President Obama Plan Michigan Visits

Michigan is preparing for visits from two prominent political figures later this month.

Vice President J.D. Vance is scheduled to attend a rally hosted by Trump 47 Committee Incorporated at the Level Up Training Complex in Monroe on October 15. The event is scheduled to begin at noon.

Former President Barack Obama is also expected in Michigan on October 24 for a rally with Michigan Democrats in Detroit.

Lawsuit Filed Over Alleged Recording at Women's Prison

A woman has filed a lawsuit against the Michigan Department of Corrections, alleging that officers recorded her while she was giving birth and while she was undressed.

Natalie Forrest was incarcerated at the Women's Huron Valley Correctional Facility when she gave birth at a hospital in Ann Arbor last year.

The Department of Corrections had not issued an immediate comment, according to the report. The allegations outlined in the lawsuit have not been independently established in the transcript.

Michigan Flags Lowered to Honor Former Senator John Pappageorge

Flags across Michigan are being lowered to half-staff to honor former state Senator John Pappageorge of Detroit, who died earlier this year at age 94.

Pappageorge, a military veteran, served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 1998 to 2004 before serving in the state Senate from 2007 to 2015.

Michigan State University Ranks Among World's Top 100 Universities

Michigan State University has earned a place among the world's top 100 universities in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2027.

The East Lansing university ranked 93rd out of nearly 2,300 institutions worldwide. MSU also placed 35th among universities in the United States, according to the rankings.

Lansing police are expected to announce a resolution Monday in the 2009 shooting death of 19-year-old Edric Hinton, who was killed at an apartment in the 900 block of West Cavanaugh Road. Police have scheduled a news conference to provide an update on the cold case.

Road Closures and Construction Projects Across Mid-Michigan

Several road projects are getting underway across mid-Michigan, bringing temporary lane and street closures.

The right lane of southbound U.S. 127 between Mount Hope Avenue and Dunckel Road will be closed through Friday. On Oakland Avenue, the left two westbound lanes are closing for sewer work through October 23.

In Eaton Rapids, Main Street will be closed between Broad and South streets for approximately two weeks while crews complete water main upgrades.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time when traveling through the affected areas.

Leadership Change at Grand Ledge Police Department

The Grand Ledge Police Department is undergoing a leadership transition. David Juras is now serving as acting police chief following the resignation of Ron Erickson, whose last day was Friday.

Erickson submitted his resignation two weeks earlier. At the City Council's most recent meeting, he said Grand Ledge was in a much better place than when he first arrived.

DeWitt Township Mourns Former Supervisor Brian Ross

DeWitt Township officials have announced the death of Brian Ross, who passed away earlier this month.

Ross served the township for 19 years, beginning as a trustee before later becoming township supervisor. Funeral service arrangements were still pending as of Monday.

Michigan Supreme Court Addresses Former Judge's Misconduct

The Michigan Supreme Court has issued findings involving former Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Wilson, who agreed to findings in a settlement addressing years of judicial misconduct.

The findings involved alcohol abuse, sexual remarks directed toward female colleagues, intervening in cases and concealing delayed rulings for approximately 18 years.

Wilson also agreed with the Judicial Tenure Commission that he cannot seek election to or accept appointment to judicial office while under oath.

Wildfires Burn Hundreds of Acres in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Wildfires burned across heavily forested areas of Marquette and Baraga counties over the weekend as warm, dry weather contributed to fire activity.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and public safety crews responded to the fires, which had burned approximately 300 acres as of Sunday night.

Detroit Lions Radio Announcer Dan Miller Mourns Wife's Death

The Detroit Lions community is mourning the death of Cynthia Miller, wife of longtime Lions radio announcer Dan Miller. She died over the weekend at age 63.

Dan Miller was absent from the team's broadcast for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals, which Detroit won. Following the victory, Lions head coach Dan Campbell presented Miller with the game ball in a gesture of support.

The moment reflected the support surrounding Miller and his family as they navigate a difficult loss.

Rogers, El-Sayed Exchange Accusations in Senate Debate

Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed clashed during their first debate ahead of next month's midterm election, with exchanges prompting moderator Rick Albin of WOOD-TV to remind the candidates to observe time limits and maintain order.

El-Sayed criticized Rogers over prescription drug prices, accusing him of opposing efforts to allow Americans to purchase prescription medications from Canada despite using Canadian drug prices in political advertising. El-Sayed also questioned Rogers' motives and criticized his past business dealings.

Rogers responded by accusing El-Sayed of accepting corporate political action committee money and receiving financial support from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

The debate featured pointed exchanges as the candidates made their cases to Michigan voters ahead of the election.

MSU Homecoming Parade Brings East Lansing Road Closures

Drivers in East Lansing should expect street closures associated with the Michigan State University Homecoming Parade.

Closures are scheduled from 2:30 p.m. through 7:15 p.m. Thursday to accommodate the event. City and university officials recommend that drivers use Saginaw Street for east-west travel and Harrison Road or Hagadorn Road for north-south travel.

Homecoming festivities begin at 6 p.m. The parade will start at Abbott Road and Bircham Drive before concluding on Farm Lane.

Susan Packard will serve as the Homecoming Grand Marshal.

Quality Dairy Suspends Bakery Production After Food Safety Concerns

Quality Dairy has suspended bakery production following food safety concerns identified during a state inspection.

The suspension likely affected customers who visited Quality Dairy stores Thursday hoping to purchase freshly made donuts and other bakery products.

Additional testing is being conducted, but no timeline has been announced for when bakery operations will resume.

U of M Health Sparrow Receives National Recognition

U of M Health Sparrow in Lansing has received the American Medical Association's 2026 Joy in Medicine Award.

The national award recognizes health systems that work to support health care professionals and help prevent burnout.

Health care leaders have emphasized that burnout can have consequences beyond the workplace, potentially affecting the quality of patient care and contributing to higher employee turnover.

The recognition highlights efforts to support the well-being of health care workers.

Michigan Attorney General Sues Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is suing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, alleging the health insurance company violated antitrust laws in ways that drove up insurance premiums and limited reimbursements to medical providers.

Nessel has characterized the case as a landmark lawsuit.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan officials said they were blindsided by the announcement and declined further comment because the company had not yet been served with the lawsuit at the time of the statement.

The allegations have not been established in court.

Former University of Michigan Professor Wins Nobel Prize in Literature

Anne Carson, a classics instructor who worked at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor from 2003 to 2009, has won the Nobel Prize in Literature, according to the newscast.

Carson's recognition brings international attention to a literary figure with ties to the university.

Def Leppard and Goo Goo Dolls Announce Detroit Concert

Rock fans will have an opportunity to see Def Leppard and the Goo Goo Dolls in Detroit in 2027.

The bands are planning a performance at Little Caesars Arena on March 7 as part of their tour.

The concert will bring the two rock acts to the Detroit area for a joint show.

Michigan voters will hear from several candidates Thursday as debates get underway ahead of the November midterm election.

Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed are scheduled to face off in their first debate in the U.S. Senate race Thursday night in Grand Rapids at 7 p.m. Another debate is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the University of Michigan in the race for Michigan Secretary of State, featuring Democrat Garlin Gilchrist and Republican Anthony Forlini.

New polling is also providing a snapshot of the closely watched statewide races. A survey from East Lansing-based Mitchell Research and Communications shows Gilchrist holding a five-point lead over Forlini in the Secretary of State race. In the Attorney General's race, Republican Doug Lloyd and Democrat Eli Savit are tied. The poll has a margin of error of just under four percentage points.

Johnson Campaigns With Barrett in Lansing Area

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson visited the Lansing area Wednesday to campaign for 7th District Congressman Tom Barrett.

Johnson appeared at a press event at the Ingham County Sheriff's Office, where law enforcement groups also voiced support for Barrett and criticized his Democratic challenger, Will Lawrence.

Lawrence has criticized Barrett over issues including health care cuts and corporate tax breaks.

Mason-Area Data Center Proposal Moves Forward

A proposed annexation connected to a potential data center in the Mason area is moving forward.

State Boundary Commissioners ruled Wednesday that property owners in Vevay Township submitted a legally proper petition seeking to annex approximately 400 acres to the city of Mason. The land is connected to plans for a proposed data center near Columbia and College roads.

A public hearing date before the Boundary Commissioners has not yet been announced.

Flag Worker Killed in Eaton County Construction-Zone Crash

Authorities are continuing to investigate a fatal construction-zone crash Tuesday in Eaton County.

According to the preliminary investigation, northbound Lansing Road was closed for road work while flaggers directed traffic. A 24-year-old flag worker was struck after a stopped pickup truck was rear-ended by a sanitation truck that was unable to stop.

The flag worker died at the scene. The pickup truck driver and passenger were injured and taken to a hospital, while the sanitation truck driver and passenger were not injured.

Investigators do not believe drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing. The victim was reportedly killed on his last day on the job.

Suspicious Package Found Near Meridian Mall

Meridian Township police also responded Wednesday to a suspicious package found near Meridian Mall.

Police said the item was discovered outside near the mall's east-side entrance. Authorities later determined that there was no threat to the public.

Officials have not indicated what was contained in the package.

Michigan's gubernatorial candidates squared off over tariffs and other issues during a debate Tuesday night in Grand Rapids, while local officials in East Lansing and Lansing addressed police policies and infrastructure concerns.

Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Republican Congressman John James debated several issues during the event moderated by WOOD-TV. Tariffs were a major point of disagreement.

Benson said that if elected governor, she would immediately work to address tariffs affecting Michigan.

“On day one in office, I will call Canada and negotiate a contract between Michigan and Canada to eliminate the tariffs and the costs in Michigan,” Benson said.

Benson also criticized James for supporting tariffs. James, who represents Michigan's 10th Congressional District, said he has never voted to increase tariffs on Canada and said he has urged the administration to return to negotiations.

“I've actually never voted to increase tariffs on Canada,” James said, adding that officials need to “get back to the table.”

East Lansing Council Approves New Police Policies

The East Lansing City Council unanimously approved new use-of-force and de-escalation policies for the city's police department Tuesday night.

The vote came amid several recent public safety incidents. Council Member Steve Whalen expressed concerns about the procedure surrounding the vote but ultimately supported the policies.

Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Grigsby said the policies had support from the police chief, community, oversight commission and city attorney.

Lansing Storm Drains Raise Concerns

In Lansing, City Council members are raising concerns about thousands of storm drains that apparently have not been cleaned since 2024.

Councilman Adam Hussain said only about 3,800 of the city's approximately 13,000 catch basins have been cleaned. He warned that the city could potentially be out of compliance with the Clean Water Act.

Hussain said neglected catch basins could contribute to additional flooding, damage local waterways and accelerate the deterioration of city infrastructure.

He is calling for funding to create a dedicated two-person crew and provide a truck specifically for catch basin cleaning.

Eaton County Road Commission Worker Killed

A 24-year-old Eaton County Road Commission worker was killed Tuesday in a work zone crash on Lansing Road between Royston and Windsor.

Michigan State Police are investigating. The newscast reported that there was no immediate word on whether anyone else was injured.

Mason Man Extradited to Florida on Child Sex Crime Charges

A 19-year-old Mason man has been arrested and extradited to Florida to face child sex crime charges.

Authorities allege Austin Alden sent sexual images and videos of himself to a 13-year-old. He is being held on $200,000 bail.

Michigan Supreme Court to Hear South Haven Case

The Michigan Supreme Court is scheduled to hear oral arguments Wednesday in a case involving the 2020 drowning death of 18-year-old Brandon Chambers of Jackson in South Haven.

Chambers' family sued the city over how revenue is generated from its beaches. An appeals court ruled last year that South Haven has governmental immunity, overturning a lower court decision.

The Supreme Court hearing will focus on the legal issues surrounding the case.

Drivers in the Lansing area should be prepared for a temporary closure on southbound US-127 Tuesday morning as Michigan Department of Transportation crews conduct emergency guardrail repairs.

The southbound lanes of US-127 between I-69 and Lake Lansing Road are scheduled to close from 9 a.m. until noon. MDOT is advising motorists to take I-69 eastbound and then exit onto Saginaw Highway westbound as a detour.

Meanwhile, the East Lansing City Council is scheduled to vote Tuesday evening on proposed use-of-force and de-escalation policies for the East Lansing Police Department. The vote comes following several high-profile use-of-force incidents involving ELPD.

The council meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Hannah Center.

Fire departments receive FEMA funding

Fire departments in Charlotte and St. Johns have received FEMA grants to support department upgrades.

Charlotte was awarded more than $223,000 to purchase new hoses, nozzles and other firefighting equipment.

St. Johns plans to use its grant to send 10 firefighters to school to become emergency medical technicians. The training could help pave the way for Clinton County's first basic life support non-transporting fire department.

Michigan candidates prepare for debates

With four weeks remaining until Election Day, two major political debates are scheduled in Michigan Tuesday.

Seventh District Congressman Tom Barrett is set to face challenger Will Lawrence in a debate later Tuesday morning.

A gubernatorial debate between Jocelyn Benson and John James is scheduled for Tuesday night in Grand Rapids.

On the campaign trail, President Donald Trump told reporters Monday at the White House that he plans to visit Michigan sometime during the next two weeks to support Republican candidates ahead of the midterm elections. No official announcement has been made regarding the visit.

Former President Barack Obama is scheduled to campaign with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul Sayed in Detroit on October 24.

Michigan gas prices could continue falling

Michigan drivers could see additional relief at the gas pump in the coming weeks.

GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan said on social media that average gas prices in Michigan could fall another 25 cents per gallon over the next week, potentially dropping below $4 per gallon in the weeks ahead.

Gas prices declined by more than 20 cents last week, with AAA attributing the decrease primarily to lower demand.

Whitmer signs gift card fraud legislation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed legislation amending Michigan's Organized Retail Crime Act to include gift card fraud.

Under the new law, a person would be prohibited from knowingly acquiring, tampering with or making purchases using a gift card with the intention of committing fraud.

DeWitt Bakery Fire Contained After Driver Alerts Police

A fire at a downtown DeWitt bakery early Sunday morning was contained before it could spread to nearby businesses and apartments, thanks in part to an unidentified driver who noticed the blaze and alerted a police officer.

The fire broke out at Sweetie-licious Bakery on Bridge Street, according to DeWitt police. An unknown motorist spotted the fire and flagged down an officer who was on patrol. The officer then notified Clinton County Dispatch and local fire crews.

Police credited the driver's early detection with helping prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent businesses and apartments.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Bow Hunter Critically Injured in Clinton County Shooting

A bow hunter was in critical condition after being struck by an apparent errant round while sitting inside a hunting blind in Essex Township.

Clinton County Sheriff's deputies were called to an address on Low Road around 5:50 p.m. Saturday. Deputies, firefighters and medics found the man inside a hard-sided ground blind suffering from an apparent single gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to a hospital for treatment.

According to the sheriff's office, people on a nearby property were target shooting when a round apparently traveled onto the hunter's property and struck him.

Authorities are calling the incident isolated. The investigation remains ongoing.

Capitol Avenue Closure Begins in Downtown Lansing

Drivers heading through downtown Lansing should be aware of a temporary closure beginning Monday.

Capitol Avenue is scheduled to close between St. Joseph and Hillsdale streets for utility work. The closure is expected to remain in place through Oct. 16.

Motorists are encouraged to plan for additional travel time and seek alternate routes while the work is underway.

Michigan Gas Prices Fall

Michigan drivers are seeing some relief at the pump, with gasoline prices declining over the past week.

AAA reported the statewide average at $4.45 per gallon, about 22 cents lower than the average at the same time last week. The Lansing-area average was $4.40 per gallon, down 26 cents week over week.

Michigan Candidates Prepare for Debate Week

Several high-profile Michigan political races are heading into a busy week of debates.

On Tuesday, Congressman Tom Barrett and challenger Will Lawrence are scheduled to debate in Lansing. Gubernatorial candidates Jocelyn Benson and John James are also scheduled to face off Tuesday in Grand Rapids.

Thursday will bring another round of debates in Grand Rapids, where U.S. Senate candidates Mike Rogers and Abdul El-Sayed are set for their first debate.

Meanwhile, Secretary of State candidates Garland Gilchrist and Anthony Forlini are scheduled to debate at the University of Michigan.

The debates come as candidates make their cases to Michigan voters ahead of the election.

The Lansing Police Department is expected to provide an update Thursday on several recent murders along the River Trail, including information about the ongoing investigations, police response and concerns raised by members of the community.

At least five people have been found dead along the trail over roughly the past year. Police are expected to discuss the investigations and what officers are doing in response to the deaths.

The briefing comes one day after Lansing police released video showing the minutes leading up to last week's fatal officer-involved shooting involving 29-year-old Zachary Dunn in the 600 block of Jolly Road.

According to police, Dunn pointed what was believed to be a gun at his own head and then toward officers, prompting officers to open fire. Police later determined the weapon was not real. Six officers remain on leave while Michigan State Police continue investigating the shooting.

Grand Ledge Man Sentenced in Child Sexual Abuse Material Case

A 44-year-old Grand Ledge man has been sentenced to more than six and a half years in prison after authorities found more than 1,000 images and videos depicting child sexual abuse.

David Lee Chambers was charged with two counts of aggravated possession of child pornography and one count of using a computer to commit a crime.

Michigan Senate Does Not Vote on Gas Tax Suspension

The Michigan Senate did not vote Thursday on a proposal to suspend the state's 52-cent-per-gallon gas tax in an effort to reduce fuel prices.

Republicans criticized Democrats following the session for not bringing the legislation to a vote. Opponents of the proposal said suspending the tax could cost Michigan hundreds of millions of dollars intended for road projects.

DTE, Google Data Center Electricity Agreement Approved

The Michigan Public Service Commission has approved special contracts between DTE Energy and Google to provide electricity for a data center planned in Van Buren Township in Wayne County.

The approval includes mandatory protections designed to ensure other utility customers do not bear costs associated with the project.

DTE officials say the data center is expected to begin taking service in December 2027, with its maximum electricity load expected to be reached by December 2028.

Michigan Joins Lawsuit Over Federal Power Plant Emissions Rules

Michigan is joining a coalition of 25 states, counties and cities in a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency over the rollback of federal greenhouse gas limits for power plants.

The coalition argues the rollback could increase pollution and contribute to worsening extreme heat, storms, flooding and wildfire smoke. The EPA has not commented on the pending litigation.

GM Sales Down More Than 6%

General Motors reported a decline of more than 6% in vehicle sales during the first nine months of 2026 compared with the same period last year.

The Detroit automaker has sold nearly 2 million vehicles so far this year, compared with about 2.1 million at the same point in 2025. GM attributed the decline to lower demand compared with last year's record sales year.

MSU Receives $10 Million Gift

Michigan State University is receiving a $10 million donation from longtime supporters Joe and Julie Serra for the school's "For Sparta" program.

The university says the money will be used primarily for football-related purposes, including improvements at Spartan Stadium.

Lansing Police to Release Video of Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting

Lansing police are expected to release additional information Wednesday about an officer-involved shooting that killed a 29-year-old man last week on Jolly Road.

The Lansing Police Department plans to release video from the September 23 incident in the 600 block of Jolly Road. Police said officers initially responded to reports of a man banging on doors and windows.

According to police, the man threatened to shoot himself before pointing a gun toward officers. Police then shot the man.

Police Seek Vehicle in Fatal Eaton County Hit-and-Run

Michigan State Police are asking for the public's help locating a vehicle believed to be connected to a deadly hit-and-run crash on I-69 in Eaton County last Friday.

The crash killed a 52-year-old DeWitt man.

Police are looking for a dark gray 2018 Jeep Compass with damage on the passenger side, including a hanging piece of trim, a missing headlight and a missing side mirror. A 39-year-old Charlotte man has been arrested on unrelated charges.

State police are asking anyone who sees the vehicle or has information about it to contact law enforcement. Auto repair facilities are also being asked to notify police if the vehicle is brought in for repairs.

Suspect Arraigned in Fatal Jackson County Hit-and-Run

A 35-year-old man from Charlotte has been arraigned in connection with another fatal hit-and-run crash in Jackson County last month.

The Blackman-Leoni Department of Public Safety said officers responded to Rose Hill Road near Videto Lane in Blackman Township after receiving reports of a scooter and a man lying motionless in the roadway.

The victim, identified as 58-year-old Eric Etsey, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police arrested Jordan Morey in the Lansing area. He was taken to the Jackson County Jail and faces a charge of failure to stop at the scene of an accident.

Lansing Utility Rates Increase

Lansing Board of Water & Light customers will see higher rates beginning October 1.

Under a one-year plan approved by commissioners last August, the average customer will pay about $2 more per month for electricity and approximately $1 more per month for water.

Steam rates are also increasing by roughly 5.5%, with the largest impact expected to be on commercial customers.

Ionia Street Closed for Sewer Repairs

Lansing commuters should be aware of a temporary road closure on Ionia Street.

The section of Ionia Street between Butler Boulevard and Sycamore Street is closed for sewer repairs. The closure is expected to remain in place through the end of the day Friday.

East Lansing Police Warn of Phone Scam

East Lansing police are warning residents about a phone scam involving people impersonating police officers.

According to police, scammers are telling victims they have an outstanding warrant and demanding payment by phone or wire transfer.

Police emphasize that actual officers do not demand payment for warrants and do not accept warrant payments over the phone or online.

The scammers have reportedly claimed to be with the "East Lansing Sheriff's Office," an agency that does not exist.

Jameson Williams Cleared in Assault Investigation

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams has been cleared of assault charges following an investigation in Oakland County.

Oakland County prosecutors and Novi police said a woman accused Williams of assault in connection with an incident in early August.

Authorities said the investigation involved a public figure but was handled with the same consideration as any other matter.