No charges to be filed in Willard boy’s death

No charges will be filed in the death of 14 year-old Willard student Caleb Hershiser from an apparent suicide on April 2nd.

An investigation report released by the Huron County Prosecutor’s Office to the Sandusky Register said there was nothing found that indicated the cause of his death to be related to a criminal act or provocation such as bullying.

The report included interviews with family members, friends, teachers and local residents.

A two-month investigation was launched after police received a tip involving possible bullying.

Results from Norwalk OVI Checkpoint

Results have been released from Friday night’s OVI Checkpoint in Norwalk.

Authorities checked close to 600 vehicles for signs of impairment with no arrests made in the checkpoint zone on U.S. 250 just south of Lais Road.

One driver was arrested for OVI though just south of Norwalk during the hours of the checkpoint’s operation.

Two arrested in Norwalk for burglary

Two Norwalk men have been arrested for their involvement in a break-in at a residence on Seminary Street early Saturday morning.

18 year-old Michael Franklin and 20 year-old Scott Rigg were both charged with aggravated burglary after Norwalk Police reportedly received a call that the two men had broken a second story window and entered a home.

Rigg was also charged with resisting arrest and theft of a firearm; with Franklin receiving an additional charge of underage alcohol consumption.

Two hurt in Huron Township crash

A Norwalk woman was injured in a crash Friday night in Huron Township.

25 year-old Bethany Springer was a passenger in a vehicle in the 4000 block of U.S. 6 eastbound that crossed the center line and hit a vehicle going westbound.

Springer and the driver, a 22 year-old Pennsylvania man, were transported to Firelands Regional Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The other vehicle’s driver was not injured.

Fatigue is a likely factor in the crash.

Erie County household hazardous waste collection event happening soon

The Erie County Landfill is holding a household hazardous waste collection event later this month.

Those wishing to participate must pre-register by this Thursday (June 15^th).

The June 24^th collection event is only open to Erie County residents meaning no businesses or contractors.

More information can be found at www.ErieCountyRecycles.com.

Norwalk football field bleacher board removal happening Saturday

Norwalk City Schools are looking for the public’s help in removing bleacher boards at Whitney Field this Saturday.

‘Whitney Field Work Day’ takes place from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; with boards to be removed from the bleacher structure of the home side of the football stadium; in preparation of new aluminum planking.

All skill levels are invited.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/12

Today

Sunny, with a high near 91.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 72.

Tuesday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Partly sunny, with a high near 90.

Wednesday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 86.

Man indicted in Heather Bogle’s death

The local man accused in the killing of Clyde’s Heather Bogle has been indicted on two counts of aggravated murder by a special grand jury.

48 year-old Daniel Myers of Green Creek Township, near Clyde, could face the death penalty or life in prison if convicted.

The grand jury also believes that evidence points to Bogle’s death being sexually motivated.

Bogle was found shot and beaten in the trunk of her car in an apartment complex in Clyde in April of 2015.

Myers was a co-worker of Bogle.

Suspect in custody in connection with triple homicide in North Royalton

After an overnight standoff at a home on Valley Forge Drive in Brunswick, Police have taken a man into custody they believe is connected to a triple homicide in North Royalton.

Police confirmed that 45-year old George Brinkman is a suspect in the death of 45-year old Suzanne Taylor, and her daughters, 21-year-old Taylor Pifer and 18-year old Kylie Pifer.

The three family members were found by a friend Sunday night at a home in North Royalton.

Good samaritans save Lorain woman from fiery home

A Lorain woman has three strangers to thank for her being here today.

Yesterday a duplex on Elyria Avenue in Lorain caught fire.

As the flames started to take the home, Maria Otero and her children were able to exit the building, but her mother Ramona remained up stars on the second floor.

Three men, who were passing by the home, dared the flames, reaching Ramona and bringing her out safely.

After being thanked, the men left the scene claiming, they needed to get to work.

The Lorian Fire department extinguished the fire a short time later. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Sheffield Township man sent to prison for attack on two women

A Sheffield township man has received a 14 year prison sentence for a brutal attack on two women a year ago.

29-year old Jonathan McCann attacked Christa Waters and his then girlfriend Jesika Buckosh at her Sheffield township home back on August 25.

According to the police report, McCann was armed with a knife that night. He used it against Waters, attempting to stab her twice in the abdomen, slicing her face and nearly severing two of her fingers.

In the attack, he also broke Buckosh’s arm.

Lorain auxiliary Police Officer injured in crash

A Lorain auxiliary police officer was treated at Mercy Medical Center after a Sheffield Township car wreck Monday morning on Elyria Avenue near Lincoln Boulevard..

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 72-year old David Calabrese of Lorain, was driving a police cruiser home after working a midnight shift.

On his drive home, Calabrese rear-ended another car then went off the road, hit a mailbox and a guy wire before coming to a stop in a ditch.

The driver of the other car was un-injured, while Calabrese was taken to the hospital, where he was examined. The crash remains under investigation.

Wellington man hurt in motorcycle accident

A Wellington Man is in the hospital after crashing his Motorcycle on Monday.

The Ohio Highway Patrol said 24-year old Aaron Martin was riding without a helmet when he fell on state root 303 by Chamberlain Road.

The trooper on the scene said Martin was conscious and alert but likely had a broken leg.

Martin nor the officers at the scene are sure what caused the crash.

Patrol Post planning OVI checkpoint later on this week

The Sandusky Post of the Highway Patrol has announced that an OVI checkpoint will take place in the area later this week.

The county of the checkpoint will be announced the day prior; with the exact location announced the morning of the checkpoint.

St. Paul grad honored for saving drowning woman

A Norwalk Saint Paul grad has been awarded for saving a woman’s life.

On April 26^th, 25 year-old Zachary Service, along with three co-workers for a property manager in Mayfield Heights, pulled a drowning woman from the bottom of a 9-foot pool; with Service giving her CPR until paramedics arrived.

The 2010 Saint Paul graduate was given the Public Service Cross at last week’s council meeting in Mayfield Heights.

Elyria woman accused of killing boyfriend asking court for time with her children

An Elyria Woman convicted of killing her boyfriend has asked the court for two weeks of freedom to spend with her two children.

Nicole Villegas is accused of shooting and killing her boyfriend 36-year old Lamar Capers back on November 24th, 2014.

Judge Mark Betleski denied the request  saying he doesn’t believe that would be a good idea, citing Villegas was not only a flight risk, but do to past drug issues could be a danger to herself.

Villegas is due back in court on June 26 for charges related to drugs.

Huron bridge work delays continue

The Huron Memorial Bridge project will be delayed once again.

After previous setbacks, the U.S. 6 bridge work will again be hindered after ODOT officials refused to allow the lowest-bidding contractor to perform cosmetic-related tasks; such as painting, due to not meeting qualifications and requirements.

The project originally scheduled to finish in 2014, is now expected to be completed by no later than 2019.

Lorain City Council discusses sewer rate hike

Lorain’s City Council’s Streets and Utilities Committee held an open forum for the public Monday night regarding the proposed sewer hike for the city’s residents.

Some people voiced their displeasure to the situation saying they could not afford the proposed hike, and asking the city to find other avenues to get the money.

After requiring the city to upgrade their sewer system, in March the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency allowed the city to table the project to help cut costs.

The city’s proposed plan would see the average resident’s sewer rates raise about six dollars a month.

Sandusky Fire Department 5K going on next month

Pre-registration is now underway for the Sandusky Fire Department 5K.

The 5K walk-run and kids 1K is set to take place Saturday, July 1^st at Fire Station Number 1.

Registration is $20; but those that pre-register by June 22^nd can save five dollars.

All event proceeds go to the Sandusky Firefighter’s Charity Fund.

Sandusky concert series to start tonight

The 2017 Gazebo Concert Series in Sandusky begins tonight.

The music gets underway in Washington Park at 7:00 pm with the Sandusky Choral Society.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/13

Today

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Wednesday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85

Bellevue man dies in single vehicle crash

A Bellevue man was killed and another was seriously hurt in a single vehicle crash last night.

52 year-old Rodney Lewis was a passenger in a Ford Explorer that went left of center on Township Road 173 in Ballville Township and struck a tree head on.

The vehicle’s driver, 45 year-old Christopher Ferguson of Bellevue, was taken to a Toledo hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash.

Myers pleads ‘not guilty’ in Bogle death

Bond has been set at $2 million for the man believed to have killed Clyde’s Heather Bogle in 2015.

48 year-old Daniel Myers of Green Creek Township plead ‘not guilty’ on Tuesday in a Sandusky County court.

Myers could face the death penalty after being indicted on two counts of aggravated murder in Bogle’s death.

Bogle’s body was found in the trunk of her car in an apartment complex parking lot in Clyde.

North Royalton triple homicide suspect linked to other murders

The suspect of a triple homicide in North Royalton is now being linked to two more murders in North Canton.

On Tuesday morning, Brunswick Police took 45 year-old George Brinkman into custody after an overnight standoff at a home on Valley Forge road.

According to police, he was a suspect in the death of 45 year old Suzanne Taylor and her two daughters Taylor and Kylie Pifer.

Now Stark County Police say, he is also wanted for questioning in the deaths of North Canton’s 71 year-old Rogel John and 64 year-old Roberta John.

The bodies of the husband and wife were discovered at their home Monday after their son tried and failed to reach them.

Storms hit southern Huron County on Tuesday

Southern Huron County was hit by severe storms last night.

It resulted in flooding and some downed tree limbs in the Willard area.

The emergency alert system in Huron County issued a warning last night to Willard residents to be aware of flooded basements in relation to the dangers of gas and electric utilities.

Grafton hires new fire chief

The City of Grafton has announced, they have a new fire chief.

Randy Kimbro of Eaton Township will take over for the retiring Chief John Cutter.

Kimbro, has 30 years of fire and emergency medical technician experience and has worked for the Olmsted Falls Fire Department

Mayor Dave DiVencenzo says the appointment still needs to go before the Village Council next week, but support of the decision is expected.

Women gives birth at Kalahari

In the span of three hours, two women went into labor at the Kalahari Resort water park in Sandusky on Tuesday.

One of those women gave birth at the resort with the help of three Huron Fire paramedics and an Erie County Sheriff’s Deputy.

The mother and child were reported as doing fine.

The other woman was taken to a nearby hospital before the child was delivered.

Temperature ties record high on Tuesday

If you found yourself in a pool or some other body of water of the past couple of days trying to stay cool, you weren’t alone.

According to the National Weather Service Cleveland office, the 93 degree temperatures tied the record high for this time of year, previously set in 1954.

We should see a little relief from the heat over the next few days, as we start to see temps hover in the mid 80’s by the weekend.

Medical marijuana approved in Sandusky

City commissioners in Sandusky have unanimously voted to remove a ban against medical marijuana in the city.

The vote opens the door for Sandusky to become a possible host city for a company to produce and dispense medical marijuana.

24 statewide licenses are up for grabs; with those locations expected to be named in September.

Oberlin joins lawsuit against Nexus pipeline

The city of Oberlin voted Monday to join a lawsuit to stop the Nexus Gas Pipeline from cutting through land near residents.

Law director Jon Clark will start the process of becoming a plaintiff in the federal lawsuit, along with around 40-60 people from Medina, summit and Stark counties.

Clark says the Lawsuit is in line with the city’s objective of doing anything and everything it can to reroute the Pipeline.

The proposed route of the pipeline would span 255 miles and would run through 11 Ohio counties before ending in Canada.

North Ridgeville statue to not be destroyed

Fear not North Ridgevile High School Football fans, the riding ranger statue from the old stadium is not going to be destroyed.

Last week, a group started a petition to be sent to the district’s Board of Education to ask the statue depicting a rearing horse and it’s rider be saved, but According to Superintendent Jim Powell, the statue was never in jeopardy.

Powell said, “The confusion came because the people who started the petition didn’t call and ask, They just assumed the school wasn’t doing anything

He went on to add, that right now the school is waiting on the completion of construction around the new athletic facility to decide where the statue might be a good fit.

New director at Main Street Wadsworth

Main street Wadsworth has hired a new executive director.

Adrianna Krauss earned the position over 80 applicants for the job.

The Wadsworth resident says she cares about the community because it is where her family is.

Krauss received her undergraduate from Miami, she then attended University of Akron where she earned her Law degree.

Elyria set for downtown farmer’s market

Pioneer Plaza in Downtown Elyria will be ready for Saturday’s farmers Market.

According to Elyria Mayor, Holy Brinda, the public square will be ready to serve as a new focal point for downtown by the weekend.

New archways,  brick walkways, flower gardens, bike racks, benches and temporary shelter for food and craft vendors will all be added to the plaza.

Invest Elyria’s annual farmers market kicks off the summer season this weekend at 9 a.m. and will include six local farmers and three bakers.

The Farmers Market will run until noon each Saturday through September with later ending times to be determined for July 22 when a Kids’ Day is planned and Aug. 22 when Invest Elyria host an auto show.

Norwalk concert series continues tonight

The Norwalk summer concert series features ‘The Divots’ tonight.

They take the stage at 6:30 pm at the Norwalk reservoir.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/14

Today

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Partly sunny, with a high near 84.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Cloudy, with a high near 86.

Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.

Woman’s body found dead inside car at Lorain County Speedway

A 45-year-old Amherst woman was found dead in her car Tuesday morning by a groundskeeper at the Lorain County Speedway in Amherst.

Alberta Cerino was spotted by the track employee in the Sothern lot of the racetrack.

Detective Don Barker said there were no obvious signs of trauma.

The death is being treated as suspicious because of where the body was found.

The investigation is ongoing.

Fatal crash in Wellington on Wednesday

A head-on collision in Wellington Wednesday night has left one person dead and two others with serious injuries.

The crash occurred just before 10:00 pm on state Route 58 north of Webster Road.

A Jeep headed northbound and a silver SUV going southbound collided.

The driver of the Jeep was flown to Metro in Cleveland with the passenger taken to Mercy in Oberlin.

The Woman driving the SUV died at the scene.

It is unknown if drugs or alcohol were a factor.

Straw fire in Monroeville

A fire at a farm in Monroeville resulted in the loss of at least 30 acres of straw worth around $25,000.

The fire at Enterprise Hill Farms near Huber and Lamereaux Roads on Monday likely started when a mower tossed up a rock and sparked.

Huron Schools agree to deal with classified staff members

A three-year deal has been reached between Huron Schools and its classified workers.

The contract includes a one-percent yearly increase of base salary for the school’s 53 classified staff members including educational aides and transportation employees.

Norwalk council talks funding for splash pad

During this week’s work session, City Council in Norwalk discussed the accepting of a $200,000 state grant that will be used to mostly fund the splash pad at the Ernsthausen Community Center.

The grant would require reimbursement; meaning the city would have to front the money.

The 40-by-80 foot splash pad will likely cost $246,000 with construction to start after the pool closes in the fall.

Oberlin discussing partnership with New London for bus services

The Oberlin school board is mulling a partnership with New London Schools for shared bus maintenance services.

Superintendent David Hall called for a audit of the district’s busses earlier this year after finding out the district had overspent close to 1 million dollars over a decade for bus maintenance.

Amherst Lowe’s employees stops thief 

There is more than one way to use a fork lift.

At the Lowe’s Home Improvement Store near the Midway Mall in Elyria, Lowe’s employee Joshua Culler used the tow motor he was driving to chase down a would be shop lifter.

After being caught, Police took, 28 year-old Bryce Babics of Amherst into custody.  He is being charged with theft for attempting to take a power drill and battery worth nearly 600 dollars without paying.

Amtrak service to Sandusky could end due to budget cuts

Amtrak passenger rail service to Sandusky could end…at least that’s what a national group representing train passengers is saying.

The National Association of Railroad Passengers are attempting to organize demonstrations on June 23^rd to protest President Donald Trump’s budget proposal; which they believe would end passenger rail service to cities such as Sandusky, Elyria and Cleveland.

The Amtrak rail service in Sandusky makes two stops per day, one to pick up passengers and the other to unload.

Willard hosting scavenger hunt
Willard is hosting a scavenger hunt in celebration of the 100^th anniversary of the re-naming of the town.

The ‘2017 Then and Now Scavenger Hunt’ is going on now through next Friday the 22^nd.

The contest features booklets that lead residents throughout town to answer questions based on Willard history.

The booklets can be purchased for $2 at Willard City Hall and other locations.  A $200 prize will be awarded.

Perkins Township Police hosting car show this weekend

Police in Perkins Township in Sandusky are hosting a classic car show this weekend.

The ‘Motor Madness’ car and bike show is set to take place at the Sandusky Mall Saturday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Proceeds will go to Big Brothers-Big Sisters.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/15

Today

Showers and thunderstorms likely.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.

Saturday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Partly sunny, with a high near 87.

Clyde woman dies, Sandusky woman seriously injured in crash

A woman from Clyde was killed and a Sandusky woman was seriously hurt in a Wednesday morning crash in Sandusky County’s Townsend Township.

53 year-old Patricia Likes-Slempa of Clyde reportedly failed to yield at the intersection of Ohio 412 and County Road 294 and drove into the path of 47 year-old Lori Prosser of Sandusky; who was approaching the same intersection.

Prosser was taken to Firelands Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.

City of Willard to assist residents with clean-up after flooding

The City of Willard took in over 3 inches of rain Tuesday night; leaving many flooded streets and basements.

The city plans to help with the clean-up.  Starting Monday, residents can place damaged items on the curb for pick-up.

The rainfall was a record for the most rain ever on June 13^th in Willard.

Vermilion Festival of the Fish going on this weekend

The 51^st annual Vermilion Festival of the Fish begins today.

Fireworks over Lake Erie take place tonight at dusk; along with a sand castle contest Saturday morning, a lighted boat parade Saturday night and a Father’s Day parade Sunday at 12:30 pm.

The festival runs now through Sunday.

Willard ‘welcome home’ party for migrants canceled

A planned ‘welcome home’ party for migrant workers in Willard, which some viewed as controversial, has now been canceled.

The event planned by the chamber of commerce was scheduled for Saturday.

Chamber president Carrie McClendon said her association canceled the event due to ‘scheduling issues’.

Patrol OVI checkpoint in Ottawa County tomorrow

The Ohio State Highway Patrol announced today that an OVI checkpoint will be held in Ottawa County tomorrow evening.

The OVI checkpoint, funded by federal grant funds, is planned to deter and intercept impaired drivers.

The location of the checkpoint will be announced Saturday morning.

Toby Keith to play Put-in-Bay

Country music star Toby Keith will headline Put-in-Bay’s summer music festival this Labor Day weekend.

Keith’s performance is part of the first-ever ‘Bash on the Bay’ country music festival at the airport.
The show takes place August 31^st with tickets on sale starting this Monday morning at 9:00 am.

Norwalk Salvation Army seeking donations

The Salvation Army in Norwalk is looking for assistance with their weekend bag-lunch program, ‘Weekends Without Hunger’.

They are seeking funding for four weeks of food; including canned pasta, fruit cups and single servings of cereal.

So far, the Norwalk Elks have donated over $2,700 worth of supplies for the program.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/16

Today

Sunny, with a high near 88.

Tonight

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.

Saturday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.

Sunday – Father’s Day

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83.

Columbus man killed at Put-in-Bay marina

A man from the Columbus area was killed Friday night when he was shocked by electric current at Put-in-Bay.

19 year-old Evan Currie of Dublin dove in the water to save his father and family dog from drowning at Miller Marina after their boat was plugged into shore power.

Everyone else made it back into the boat safely after the power was unplugged.

Huron Township man arrested for domestic violence

A 51 year-old Huron Township man faces domestic violence charges after reportedly assaulting his wife while intoxicated.

Gary Savage of Scheid Road reportedly slapped his wife several times and held her down on a couch Friday after his wife said she was leaving him.

Authorities involved in chase in Huron

A Cleveland man was arrested following a 4-hour pursuit on Friday that started in Erie County.

20 year-old Devon Davenport was charged with Failure to Comply with a Lawful Order and Inducing panic after leading law enforcement on a chase near Huron on U.S. 6 and State Routes 2 and 13.

Davenport eventually fled on foot and was arrested several hours later as a passenger in a truck on I-90 near Sheffield.

Bellevue man arrested for alleged threat against wife

A man from Bellevue was arrested late last week for allegedly threatening to kill his estranged wife.

26 year-old Andrew Howard faces domestic violence charges after a friend of Howard’s estranged wife told police that he was going to kill his wife by setting her bed on fire.

Howard has been arrested for domestic violence on two previous occasions.

Health Department and Serving Our Seniors working to prevent seniors from falling accidents

The Erie County Health Department and Serving Our Seniors are working together on a $5,000 grant to prevent Erie County senior residents from falling.

The grant includes fall prevention home improvements like hand rails and grab bars along with fall prevention equipment such as rubber slip resistant bath mats that are available free of charge.

Contact Serving Our Seniors for more information.

Residents can purchase plaques for Milan time capsule

Milan residents can be a permanent part of history as the village celebrates its’ bicentennial.

For a $20 tax-deductable donation, community members can buy a custom-engraved plaque that will be attached to a laser-etched time capsule.

Order forms can be picked up at various locations around Milan including the public library.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/19

Today

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Increasing clouds, with a high near 79.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59.

Tuesday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Partly sunny, with a high near 77.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 77.

Columbus teen killed, Norwalk man hurt in crash

An eighteen year-old Columbus-area girl was killed and a Norwalk man was injured in a two-vehicle crash Saturday in Lorain County.

Kiara Sowers received fatal injuries while a passenger in a car that reportedly ran a stop sign on Ohio 511 and Ohio 18 intersection in Brighton Township.

The car then collided with another vehicle driven by 34 year-old James Young of Norwalk.

Young was taken to an Oberlin hospital where he was treated and released.

Human arm found in Erie County train yard

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a human arm found in a train yard on Ohio 4 in Groton Township on Saturday.

The body part could possibly belong to a Pennsylvania man who walked in front of a moving train in April near Pittsburgh.

An inspector found the body part in the undercarriage of a train car.

Port Clinton OVI Checkpoint results…

A total of four drivers were found to be impaired in relation with Saturday’s Highway Patrol OVI Checkpoint in Port Clinton.

One motorist passing through the checkpoint on State Route 163 was impaired along with three other drivers detained by area saturation patrols found to be impaired as well.

All four motorists were arrested and charged with OVI.

City of Sandusky to start working on Columbus Avenue train underpass

Sandusky City Commissioners have approved a $77,000 contract to be used for broad repairs of the Columbus Avenue train underpass or ‘subway’.

The project will include the removing and replacing of cracked concrete sidewalks.

Sandusky officials are not allowed to work on areas touching train tracks though; as those belong to the railroad.

Work should begin and end later this year.

Multiple people arrested in fight at Cedar Point dorms

Multiple people have been arrested for their involvement in a fight at Cedar Point Commons employee housing.

The Sandusky Register reports that authorities made 11 arrests early Monday morning during an incident where one man tried to grab a police officer’s gun.

19 year-old Carlos Clayton of Cleveland Heights faces multiple charges including aggravated robbery and the assault of a peace officer.

Clayton reportedly pushed past a line of employees and started to brawl with two men, which caused other fights to erupt.

Others involved were mostly charged with rioting.

NHRA event in Norwalk to feature can collection for charity

This weekend’s NHRA Nationals racing event in Norwalk will include an aluminum can drive for charity.

Those attending the races at Summit Motorsports Park are encouraged to drop their used cans in marked recycling bins around the racing facility; which will be used to help Akron Children’s Hospital’s burn camp.

The racing gets underway Thursday.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/20

Today

Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

Tonight

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 75.

Thursday

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Partly sunny, with a high near 85.

Sandusky Police searching for possible armed man on the loose

Sandusky authorities are warning residents to be on guard for a possible armed man who escaped during a pursuit on Tuesday.

The suspect is 23 year-old Vimal Patel, is described as just over 5-foot tall, thin and of Middle Eastern descent.  He was last seen in a white shirt.

If spotted, call 911, and do not approach.

Patel fled on foot from police late Tuesday afternoon after running a curb and hitting a house on the corner of Polk and Shelby streets.

 ‘Wall that Heals’ arriving today in Bellevue

The traveling Vietnam Memorial replica, ‘The Wall that Heals’, arrives today in Bellevue.

The 250-foot half scale replica features the 58,000 names that are on the permanent memorial in Washington, D.C.

It will be led via motorcycle escort from Fox Cycle Works in Sandusky at 8:30 am; passing by the Ohio Veteran’s Home and moving through Milan, Norwalk and Monroeville before arriving at Central Park in Bellevue on U.S. 20 around 10:30 am.

Those along the route are encouraged to line the streets in support.

It officially opens to the public on Thursday at 12 noon and will be on display through Sunday.

State Patrol investigating fatal crash in Huron County

A two vehicle crash in Huron County Tuesday claimed the life of a Sandusky man.

Scott Livingstine was 61.

Livingstine was driving his motorcycle on State Route 113 in Lyme Township when he was struck by a pickup truck that was attempting to turn on State Route 4.

The driver of the truck was not hurt.

Everyone safe, including dogs, in Berlin Township house fire

A Berlin Township home received extensive damage to its second floor in a fire early Tuesday morning.

Fox 8 Cleveland reports that everyone inside was able to escape the blaze safely at the home on Mason Road; including the family’s two dogs.

One of the dogs did go back inside while the fire was still burning; but EMS treated the dog.

Cause of fatal accident at Put-in-Bay to be released today

The cause of an electrical accident that took the life of a Columbus-area man at Put-in-Bay will be released today.

Evan Currie was killed when he dove into the water in an attempt to save his father and family dog from drowning at Miller Marina on Friday evening.

The family’s boat was plugged into shore power at the time.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources have been investigating.

Huron County power line project now complete

A $20 million 7-month electric service enhancing project in Huron County has been finished; which is expected to bring better quality and performance to area residents.

The Norwalk Reflector reports that FirstEnergy recently upgraded two electric substations and energized a transmission line that will reinforce the power grid.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/21

Today

Mostly sunny, with a high near 75.

Tonight

Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Thursday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy with a high near 86.

Friday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79.

Sandusky pursuit suspect yet to be found

The man who escaped Sandusky Police on Tuesday has not yet been located.

23 year-old Vimal Patel fled on foot from authorities after running a curb and hitting a house in a vehicle at the corner of Polk and Shelby streets.

Patel was originally reported as middle-Eastern; but police have confirmed he is of Indian descent.

Patel is just over 5 foot tall and of slender build.

Authorities say to call 911 and to not approach if located; as Patel is possibly armed.

‘Wall that Heals’ Vietnam memorial replica now on display in Bellevue

The half-scale Vietnam Memorial replica, ‘The Wall that Heals’, arrived in Bellevue on Wednesday afternoon via a large motorcycle escort.

Gary Knight, District Captain for Patriot Guard Riders, told K96 News that the ride was humbling and sobering with a great show of patriotism as he helped lead the parade of around 450 motorcycles from Sandusky through Norwalk, Milan, and Monroeville before arriving in Central Park in Bellevue.

Opening ceremonies for ‘The Wall That Heals’ takes place today at 12 noon; with a parade tonight at 7:00 and a candlelight vigil at the wall this evening at 9:00 pm.

Bellevue Community Days begin today

It’s a busy weekend in Bellevue, as the 15^th edition of Bellevue Community Days gets underway later this afternoon at Greenwood Heights and Robert Peters parks.

The midway opens today at 4:00 pm with a parade tonight at 7:00 pm featuring a new downtown route.

Fireworks are planned for Friday night at 10:30 pm.

The festival runs through Saturday evening.

Huron County Public Health awarded $15,000 grant

Huron County Public Health has received a $15,000 ‘Safe Routes to School’ grant that they will use to fight childhood obesity.

According to ODOT, the purpose of the grant is to encourage students to walk or ride their bike to school through projects such as improving sidewalks and crossings; as well as safety education.

Norwalk City Council approves money for splash pad

City Council in Norwalk has passed a resolution to accept a $200,000 state grant to build a splash pad at the Ernsthausen Community Center.

The 40-by-80 foot splash pad will likely cost $246,000 with construction to start after the pool closes in the fall.

It will be located east of the zero-depth entry to the outside pool.

Erie and Ottawa County Mental health board hires new director

The Mental Health and Recovery Board of Erie and Ottawa Counties have voted to formally hire Brenda Cronin as their new executive director.

Cronin comes from Columbus; where she was area manager for Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

Cronin’s salary will be $100,000.

The board fired former executive director Kirk Halliday in March for wrongdoing; which Halliday is appealing.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/22

Today

Partly sunny, with a high near 89.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after midnight.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Friday

Showers and thunderstorms. High near 80.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

Join K96 on Wednesday as we broadcast live from the 31st Annual Willard Festival in The Park from 4 until 6! Don’t miss 4 days and 4 nights of entertainment and fun including rides, bands and entertainment for all ages, a wide variety of food and more!

‘Wall That Heals’ in Bellevue through Sunday afternoon

The ‘Wall That Heals’ travelling Vietnam Memorial replica held its opening ceremonies on Thursday afternoon in Bellevue’s Central Park.

Remembrance Ceremonies will take place tonight and Saturday night at 7:00 pm; where all 110 names will be read of those who lost their lives from Huron, Erie, Sandusky and Seneca Counties.

The 250-foot wall will be on display 24 hours a day now through Sunday at 2:00 pm; when closing ceremonies take place.

State Patrol investigating fatal crash in Seneca County

A 17 year-old from Chatfield in Crawford County was killed and a Fremont man was hurt in a two vehicle crash Thursday morning in Seneca County.

The Highway Patrol says Bryce Lutz of Chatfield drove his vehicle left of center on State Route 100 in Eden Township and struck 57 year-old John Gegorski of Fremont’s vehicle head on.

North Fairfield to discuss pipeline at public information meeting

North Fairfield is holding a public information meeting on Monday to discuss the possibility of the Utopia East Pipeline running through their village.

The pipeline is slated to go underneath properties on the west end of the village; with the pipeline company possibly paying home owners to do so.

The meeting takes place at 6:00 pm on Monday.

New London principal resigns

The New London School Board has accepted the resignation of high school and middle school principal Cosetta Adkins.

Adkins resignation is effective August 1^st.

Adkins is likely returning to teaching.

FirstEnergy planning on reducing value of Davis-Besse

Residents near the Davis-Besse nuclear power plant in Ottawa County could face higher taxes in the future.

According to the Sandusky Register, FirstEnergy has announced that it intends to reduce the value of the plant; which could lower the amount of public utility taxes the plant has to pay.

The reduction in value must be approved first by the Ohio Department of Taxation in the fall.

This comes after the power company announced in February its’ intentions to sell or close their remaining plants; including Davis-Besse.

‘Imagine Norwalk’ happening tonight

The second of eight planned ‘Imagine Norwalk’ events this year takes place tonight.

This evening’s art and music festival has teamed up with Norwalk Relay for Life for a theme of ‘Paint the Town Purple’.

Activities in uptown Norwalk get underway at 5:00 pm.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/23

Today

Showers and thunderstorms likely. High near 79.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms .

Cloudy, with a low around 65.

Saturday

A slight chance of showers.  Mostly sunny, with a high near 75.

Sunday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a high near 70.

Man sought in Sandusky car chase arrested

The man who escaped Sandusky police after a car chase on Tuesday was arrested on Friday afternoon in Sandusky County.

23 year-old Vimal Patel was located and taken in ‘without incident’ at a home in the 5700 block of Ohio 412 in Vickery.

Patel is charged with failure to comply with police orders, leaving the scene of a crime and tampering with evidence.

He’s being held without bond in the Erie County Jail.

Milan receives state ‘Safe Routes to School’ grant

The Ohio Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School Infrastructure grant has been awarded to the Village of Milan.

ODOT will cover up to $400,000 in costs to improve the crosswalk on the square, install sidewalks on the west side of Main Street and place pedestrian signs at Main and Church streets.

The grant’s purpose is to encourage walking and biking to school in a safe environment.

Huron man pleads guilty to voyeurism

A 46 year-old Huron man has pleaded guilty to two counts of voyeurism and five counts of attempted voyeurism.

David Schindley of Eagle Ridge Drive allegedly took video with his cell phone of people inside their homes; some of which were undressed.

A neighbor shot Schindley in the leg back in February when he thought Schindley was breaking into his home.

Schindley will be sentenced in September.

Chautauqua coming to Milan

Ohio Chautauqua makes its way to Milan this week.

The free event runs Tuesday through Saturday; featuring nightly performances from living history actors and local musicians in Milan’s Public Square.

Free mosquito control kits for Huron County residents

In an effort to provide protection from the threat of disease, Huron County Public Health is giving out free mosquito control kits to county residents.

The kits can used to treat standing water where young mosquitoes dwell before they become biting adults.

Huron County residents can pick up a kit at Huron County Public Health’s Environmental Division at 180 Milan Avenue, Suite 8 in Norwalk.

Proof of residence will be required.

Voters in Erie County can test new equipment

On Wednesday, Erie County registered voters can test new voting equipment.

The testing of the new electronic equipment, featuring iPads, will take place from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on the first floor of the Erie County Services Center in Sandusky.

The new technology is planned to be incorporated starting with the election this August.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/26

Today

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 71.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 70.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

Willard man pleads guilty to injuring his pregnant girlfriend

A Willard man has plead guilty to a domestic violence charge involving an injury to his pregnant girlfriend.

34 year-old Christopher Shepherd faces jail time from an October incident in his then Lorain home where he reportedly threw his six-month pregnant girlfriend to the floor during an argument.

Shepherd is currently free on bond.  He will be sentenced in August.

Boaters saved while sinking near Marblehead

Seven people were saved from a sinking vessel on Sunday off the shores of Marblehead.

The Miller Ferry and the Rescue Marine tow boat company arrived after a distress call was received by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The boat sank soon after everyone was pulled out safely.

Rough winds led to the U.S. Coast Guard crews rescuing a total of 19 people on western Lake Erie over the weekend.

City of Huron to discuss noise ordinance tonight

Huron City Council will vote tonight on a noise ordinance involving sound amplification in commercial districts.

The ordinance addresses residents concerns from the Old Plat neighborhood in relation to businesses along the North Main Street corridor.

Erie County Health Department nurse from Norwalk in trouble for allegedly forging document

A nurse from the Erie County Health Department faces a felony indictment for tampering with records.

The Sandusky Register reports that 53 year-old Michelle Pruchnicki of Norwalk allegedly gave a forged document to her employer in an attempt to increase her paycheck by decreasing her health insurance deduction.

The charge includes a possible prison sentence between nine months to five years.

National shooting matches underway in Port Clinton

A five-week long shooting completion is now underway in Port Clinton.

Camp Perry is once again the site for this year’s National Matches; which started on Monday.

The National Rifle Association organizes the competition that features long and short-range target shooting.

Over 6,500 people compete in the event each year.

Budweiser Clydesdales arriving to the area

In advance of next week’s Lion’s Club Fourth of July Parade in Norwalk, which they will be a featured participant, the Budweiser Clydesdale have arrived to the area.

The horses will be Wakeman tomorrow from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, North Ridgeville from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Friday, at Cedar Point on Saturday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, Sunday at Put-In-Bay from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and at the Huron County Fairgrounds next Monday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.

The 4^th of July Parade in Norwalk is next Tuesday at 10:30 am.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/27

Today

Partly sunny, with a high near 70.

Tonight

Partly cloudy, with a low around 58.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 78.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Breezy.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82.

Walk honoring Willard student is this Saturday

A walk is planned for this weekend to remember former Willard Middle School student Caleb Hershiser.

“Caleb’s Cause – Walk Against Bullying” takes place at 5:00 pm this Saturday behind Willard High School.

Hershiser died on April 2^nd from a reported self-inflicted gunshot wound; which supporters believe was due to bullying and harassment.

A two-month investigation was conducted by local law enforcement; in which they found no one responsible for his death.

Saturday would’ve been Hershiser’s 15^th birthday.

North Fairfield gives their OK to Utopia Pipeline

After a public information meeting on Monday, North Fairfield Council has voted to work towards a final agreement in bringing the Utopia Pipeline through their village.

The proposed pipeline would run under Ohio Route 162 on the west side of the village.

North Fairfield Council hopes to have an agreement finalized in two weeks with Kinder Morgan, the company in charge of the pipeline.

City of Sandusky approves demolition of American Crayon site

City Commissioners in Sandusky have approved a contract for the demolition of the former site of American Crayon on Hayes Avenue.

Work should get underway very shortly with it scheduled to be finished by the middle of 2018.

Norwalk Police Captain graduates from FBI program

Norwalk Police Captain Michael Conney has graduated from the FBI National Academy Program.

The program includes 10 weeks of training in the fields of advanced communication, leadership and fitness.

The program in Quantico, Virginia wrapped up earlier this month; consisting of men and women from 47 states along with military organizations and law enforcement agencies from around the world.

Open house to be held at ‘Back to the Wild’ in July

‘Back to the Wild’ wildlife rescue in Castalia will be hosting an open house event next month.

It will take place Saturday, July 8^th from 12 noon to 4:00 pm.

The facility has nearly 100 animals in rehab including bald eagles, snakes and flying squirrels.

Willard Festival in the Park begins today

The 31^st annual Willard Festival in the Park gets underway later today.

Activities include a parade at 5:00 pm on Saturday and fireworks Saturday evening at 10:30 pm.

It all gets started at 4:00 pm this afternoon with the opening of food booths.

The festival runs through Saturday.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/28

Today

Sunny, with a high near 78.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Thursday

Showers and thunderstorms likely.

Mostly cloudy and breezy, with a high near 82.

Friday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82

Drug overdose hospital visits increasing in Erie County

New statistics from the Erie County Health Department imply that drug overdoses are still growing rapidly in the area.

The numbers presented at this week’s health board meeting include 179 hospital ER visits by Erie County residents through the end of May; an increase of nearly 50 percent compared to the same time frame a year ago.

Quarry Hill owners recovering from house fire

A fire just over a week ago caused significant damage to the home of the family who owns Quarry Hill Orchards and Winery in Berlin Heights.

The Gammie family and pets were able to make it out safely though from the blaze on Mason Road.

Co-owner Bill Gammie told the Sandusky Register that he doesn’t expect the fire to impact his family’s business or their spirits.

The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical.

The family is currently staying with other family members.

Record-high sales tax collection for Huron County

The latest sales tax report in Huron County shows tax collection at a record-high.

Over $957,000 in sales tax collection appeared on the latest report from Auditor Roland Tkach; which are from March sales.

27 percent of the sales tax total came from locally owned stores and 24 percent were from big-box stores.

Local students named to Attorney General DeWine’s Teen Ambassador Board

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine has announced his office’s Teen Ambassador Board for next school year; which features several local students.

Named to the board from Erie County are Madison Leffler and Christopher Wells from Perkins High School, Timothy Hinton of Sandusky High School and Jenna Smith from Vermilion.  From Huron County, Grace Gillen of St. Paul High School was selected.

The Teen Ambassador Board advises the Attorney General’s Office on issues relating to teens as well as convening twice in Columbus during the year. The board includes over 240 Ohio high school students from more than 50 counties.

Renovations going on at Sandusky’s Crossroads Homeless Shelter

A $914,000 renovation project is taking place at Volunteers of America’s Crossroads Homeless Shelter in Sandusky.

An open house to show off the improvements happens Friday from 3:00 to 5:30 pm at their location on Superior Street.

The renovations include new carpeting and furniture as well as restroom upgrades.

Greenwich hosting lots of activities this weekend 

It’s a busy weekend in Greenwich.

A bicentennial celebration is going on tonight beginning at 5:00 pm which includes a program on the history of the village with historic residents of the past.

Also, the 43^rd annual Fireman’s Festival begins on Friday and runs through Sunday.

A parade happens Saturday at 11:00 am with fireworks on Sunday night.

Cedar Point announces July 4^th events

Cedar Point has announced their plans for this Independence Day holiday weekend.

‘Light Up the Point’ runs Saturday through Tuesday; including a fireworks display on July 4^th at 10:30 pm on Cedar Point Beach.

Active, retired and honorably-discharged military members receive free admission to the amusement park and Cedar Point Shores Waterpark all weekend long.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/29

Today

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly this afternoon.

Mostly cloudy, breezy, with a high near 87.

Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Friday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 86.

Saturday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82.

Perkins bank robbery suspects arrested in Florida

The suspect wanted in the May robbery of a Sandusky bank is now in custody.

60 year-old Louis Cillo, with ties to Lorain, has been identified by Perkins Police as the man who robbed the Milan Road Fifth Third Bank on May 19^th.

This comes after Cillo was arrested in Florida as a suspect in a bank robbery there.

California man dies in two-vehicle crash in Huron County

A two vehicle crash Thursday morning in Huron County resulted in the death of a California man.

Matthew Mancillas of Bakersfield, California was 40 years old.

The Highway Patrol says Mancillas failed to yield at a stop sign on Ohio 601 near U.S. 20; and pulled into the path of a semi truck.  A 9 year-old passenger with Mancillas was taken to a Toledo hospital with serious injuries.

Man arrested for robbing Perkins home earlier this month

A Sandusky man has been arrested by Clyde Police in connection with a burglary June 12^th in Perkins Township.

39 year-old Andrew Hunt was reportedly a getaway driver for roommate Michael Monk; after Monk allegedly stole a TV and video game console from a Force Avenue home.

Two from Castalia honored for catching criminals

Two Castalia residents have been honored by law enforcement for helping report the whereabouts of armed robbery suspects in December.

18 year-old Kaleb Carpenter and 19 year-old Eryn Spicer were given awards by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday.

The two contacted police when they recognized a truck on Ohio 101 with three suspects wanted for holding someone at gunpoint at a store in Sandusky earlier that day.

The suspects were later arrested.

State Patrol warns against drinking and driving this July Fourth

The Ohio State Highway Patrol will be out in full force cracking down on impaired drivers the entire Fourth of July weekend, beginning today.

During last year’s Fourth of July reporting period, a total of 12 fatal crashes killed 13 people in Ohio. This includes seven OVI-related fatal crashes that killed eight people.

AAA is expecting nearly 1.9 million Ohioans to travel this weekend.

No place settings allowed on tree lawns in Norwalk before Monday morning

In preparation for the upcoming Independence Day and Bicentennial parade in Norwalk on Tuesday, the City of Norwalk is reminding residents that no place settings of any kind are allowed on tree lawns before Monday morning at 9:30 am.

This includes blankets and tarps.

All items place there earlier will be removed and taken to the Ernsthausen Community Center.

New Dunkin’ Donuts Grand Opening Celebration today in Norwalk

The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting today at the brand new Dunkin’ Donuts on Milan Avenue in Norwalk.

Mayor Rob Duncan and Police Chief David Light will be on hand for the ceremony at 11:30 am.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST – 6/30

Today

Showers and thunderstorms likely this morning.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 85.

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely.

Some of the storms could produce heavy rain.

Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Saturday

Showers and thunderstorms likely. Patchy fog early.

Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 81.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.

Join K96 on Friday as we broadcast live at The Huron Boat Basin for the Huron Riverfest from 5 until 7!  This year’s Riverfest features: live music each day, a classic car show, fireworks on Friday, parade on Saturday and all the boats in the basin are invited to decorate for this year’s theme “American Pride”.  K96 will be at the Huron Riverfest all weekend with your chance to sign up and win 2-Day tickets to Cedar Point or Cedar Point Shores – Your Choice! See you this weekend at the Huron Riverfest!