Columbus City Schools announced closures Monday as extreme cold followed
Columbus City Schools Closed Monday, Dec. 15 After Winter Storm
Columbus, Ohio – Columbus City Schools will be closed Monday, Dec. 15, as central Ohio recovers from a winter storm that brought heavy snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures over the weekend.
More than 5.4 inches of snow fell across the region, prompting hazardous road conditions and prompting school officials to cancel classes. In addition to the snowfall, a cold weather advisory remains in effect across central Ohio through 11 a.m. Monday, according to weather officials.
Temperatures plunged overnight, with readings dropping to 4 degrees at John Glenn Columbus International Airport early Sunday morning. Wind chills made conditions feel significantly colder, reaching as low as 16 degrees below zero.
Late Sunday evening, Columbus City Schools confirmed the closure in a statement, citing inclement weather conditions. Officials advised families to continue monitoring updates as weather impacts persist.
Brown University Shooting Update: Man Released, Suspect Still At Large
Law enforcement officials continue their investigation after a deadly shooting at Brown University.
Person of Interest in Brown University Shooting Released
Authorities have confirmed that a 24-year-old man briefly detained in connection with the deadly Brown University shooting has been released, as investigators acknowledged they had initially followed the wrong lead and the actual suspect remains at large.
Benjamin Erickson was taken into custody early Sunday morning at a hotel near the Brown University campus. However, during a late-night press conference, Rhode Island officials announced that Erickson is no longer considered a person of interest and has been cleared in the investigation.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said the fast-moving nature of the investigation made early evidence difficult to assess. The shooting, which occurred Saturday during a university class session, resulted in the deaths of 2 students and left 9 others injured.
“These cases evolve rapidly,” Neronha said, explaining that investigators often pursue multiple leads before narrowing in on the correct suspect. He noted that while there was initially some information linking Erickson to the case, new findings have redirected the investigation.
“There is no longer any basis to consider him involved,” Neronha said, adding that authorities still have significant work ahead as they continue searching for the shooter.
The suspect, who has not yet been identified, entered an economics class review session and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Witnesses reported hearing the shooter shout something unclear during the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue efforts to locate and identify the suspect.
Brown University Shooting During Finals Leaves 2 Dead, 9 Hurt
A deadly shooting disrupted final exams at Brown University on Saturday, leaving 2 people dead and 9 others injured after a gunman opened fire inside a classroom, according to authorities.
The incident occurred around 4 p.m. Eastern time inside the Barus & Holley building, which houses Brown University’s engineering and physics departments. University officials confirmed that multiple students were among the injured, with several transported to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment. Some remain in critical condition.
The suspect, described only as a male wearing dark clothing, fled the scene and has not yet been apprehended. Law enforcement released surveillance video showing a man in a dark hoodie and beanie walking away from the area shortly after the shooting. Police and the FBI are urging the public to submit tips as the investigation continues.
In response, campus officials issued a shelter-in-place order for Brown University and nearby neighborhoods, which remained in effect overnight. Nearly 400 law enforcement officers were deployed across Providence as the search continued.
University President Christina H. Paxson called the attack “deeply devastating,” thanking first responders for their swift action. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee described the shooting as “unthinkable,” while Providence Mayor Brett Smiley urged residents near campus to remain indoors until authorities declare the area safe.
Final exams scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 14, were canceled as students were gradually evacuated under police supervision. Officials confirmed that engineering exams were in progress at the time of the shooting, and building doors were unlocked to allow students access.
Federal authorities, including the FBI, are assisting local police. President Donald Trump confirmed he had been briefed on the situation and expressed support for the victims and their families.
Brown University, an Ivy League institution with more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students, stated there is no known history of similar incidents on campus.
The investigation remains active, and officials say more information will be released as it becomes available.
Snowfall and frigid temperatures hit central Ohio.
Stay Warm: Columbus Warming Centers Open During Snow and Cold Snap
The Columbus Recreation and Parks Department will open several warming centers on December 14 and 15 as central Ohio braces for frigid temperatures following a snowstorm.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a winter weather advisory effective from 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, until 7 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, covering Franklin, Licking, and Madison counties.
Snowfall is expected to reach 1–3 inches on Dec. 13, with an additional 2–4 inches overnight. Afterward, temperatures will drop into single digits with negative wind chills, making it one of the coldest spells of the season.
Columbus Warming Centers Locations and Hours: The warming centers will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the following locations:
Barnett Community Center: 1184 Barnett Road
Dodge Community Center: 667 Sullivant Ave
Linden Community Center: 1350 Briarwood Ave
Marion Franklin Community Center: 2801 Lockbourne Road
Thompson Community Center: 1189 Dennison Ave
Why the Early Cold Snap? The extreme cold is caused by a polar vortex moving across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. Meteorologist Ryan Maue described it as a “textbook polar vortex” bringing harsh Canadian cold to the central and eastern U.S. Even after the winter advisory ends on Dec. 14, temperatures will remain low, with highs around 13°F and lows near 2°F.
Winter Safety Tips from Columbus Recreation and Parks:
Stay indoors whenever possible. If outside, wear multiple layers, a hat, and gloves.
Stay dry and protect yourself from the wind.
Cover your mouth to avoid lung exposure to extreme cold.
Watch for frostbite and hypothermia: signs include confusion, uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, and body temperature below 95°F. Seek immediate medical help if necessary.
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Check on elderly neighbors and family members.
Bring pets indoors to keep them safe.
For residents in central Ohio, knowing the warming center locations and preparing for the cold is critical to staying safe during this extreme weather event.
Columbus Murder Case Update: Arrests Made in 2021 Killing
New arrests bring renewed hope in the 2021 killing of Keishawn Riley in Columbus.
Columbus Woman Celebrates Progress in Son’s 2021 Killing
More than four years after the tragic loss of her son, a Columbus mother says justice is finally within reach. Two suspects have now been arrested and charged in connection with the 2021 killing of 29-year-old Keishawn Riley.
Keishawn was fatally shot in May 2021 outside the Columbus Square Bowling Palace, an incident that occurred in broad daylight and shocked the local community. His mother, Keisha Riley, says the long wait for accountability has been emotionally exhausting, but she never lost hope.
“For four years, I held onto the belief that my son would get justice,” Riley said, adding that this stage of the process is allowing her to finally grieve in ways she couldn’t before.
In 2022, one suspect, Ellis Caldwell, was arrested and charged, but the case was later dismissed. Rather than discouraging her, Riley says the setback strengthened her resolve. She remained in constant communication with investigators, regularly following up with detectives and urging collaboration with prosecutors.
Court records now show that Caldwell has been rearrested, along with a second suspect, Andre Stromer, who is facing a murder charge. Riley described the new arrests as overwhelming but reassuring, saying authorities appeared to pursue the case more thoroughly this time.
With renewed progress in her son’s case, Riley says she is now focused on helping other families navigating similar tragedies. From launching online petitions to creating a YouTube channel, she has worked tirelessly to keep her son’s name in the public eye and advocate for justice.
President Donald Trump’s announcement to broaden U.S. military efforts against drug trafficking networks across Latin America, amid ongoing concerns over fentanyl and cocaine flows.
U.S. military forces increase operations aimed at disrupting drug trafficking routes in Latin America.
Trump Expands Military Drug Operations Across Latin America
President Donald Trump said Friday that the U.S. military will expand its anti-drug operations beyond maritime routes and begin targeting drug trafficking networks on land across Latin America. The announcement follows a series of air and naval operations that significantly disrupted narcotics shipments traveling by sea.
According to Trump, the new phase of the campaign is intended to curb the flow of fentanyl and cocaine into the United States. The shift comes as U.S. military assets, including warships and aircraft, increase their presence in the Caribbean region near Puerto Rico.
Security analysts note that while fentanyl entering the U.S. is largely linked to Mexican trafficking organizations using chemical precursors sourced from China, parts of South America serve as transit corridors for cocaine shipments. Venezuela, though not a major producer, has been identified as one of several routes used by traffickers.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has condemned any potential military action within the region, warning that his government would resist foreign intervention. The proposed expansion has raised concerns among international observers about regional stability and the broader implications of escalating military involvement in anti-narcotics enforcement.
The Ohio Department of Transportation warns drivers to take Friday’s light snowfall seriously.
ODOT Warns Ohio Drivers About Snow Risks
Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is urging drivers across the state to prepare for potentially hazardous road conditions on Friday morning, despite forecasts predicting only light snowfall.
According to ODOT Press Secretary Matt Bruning, the main concern is not the amount of snow, but when the snow falls. He emphasized that even minor snowfall can cause major travel issues when it aligns with peak commuting hours.
Bruning noted that drivers often underestimate lighter snow totals, assuming it poses little risk and therefore failing to adjust their driving behavior. This mindset, he explained, is what makes light snowfall just as dangerous as heavier winter storms.
He added that morning traffic severely limits the ability of snowplows to clear and treat roadways. When plows are stuck behind traffic, their ability to keep roads passable is reduced.
This winter season has already seen 11 ODOT snowplows struck by drivers, compared to zero incidents last December. Bruning stressed that collisions with snowplows can have serious consequences, reminding drivers that passenger vehicles are no match for heavy plow trucks.
While crews have pre-treated major roads, ODOT warns that drivers should not expect perfectly clear pavement. The agency’s goal during active snowfall is to keep roads passable—not perfect—meaning drivers should anticipate slower speeds and allow extra travel time.
Bruning’s final advice to motorists: don’t crowd the plow and never pass it. Maintaining a safe following distance allows plows to do their job effectively and keeps everyone safer on the road.
Gov. Mike DeWine discusses his final-year priorities in an exclusive interview covering taxes, education, and statewide reforms.
Governor Mike DeWine Reflects on Final Year as Ohio Governor
Columbus, Ohio – As Gov. Mike DeWine enters his final full year in office, the Ohio leader is outlining his remaining priorities and the major policy decisions that will shape his legacy. DeWine, Ohio’s 70th governor, has served since 2019 and has signed several significant bills during his tenure, such as Braden’s Law, the Parents’ Bill of Rights, and the Protect All Students Act.
In an exclusive conversation, DeWine discussed his focus for the year ahead, emphasizing improvements in education, property tax reforms, and essential support for Ohio families.
DeWine on Maximizing His Final Year
DeWine says he approaches each day with urgency, even keeping a countdown clock on his desk to remind him of how much time remains. His goal is to “finish strong” by advancing the initiatives he believes will most impact Ohioans.
A major focus is the statewide implementation of the science of reading, a research-backed approach to improving literacy outcomes. DeWine shared that many new teachers were not receiving adequate training on the method, prompting the state to require all teacher preparation programs to adopt it.
Another priority is the state’s vision screening program, which provides eye exams and glasses to children. DeWine highlighted that many students who need vision care don’t receive it, and the administration is working to expand screenings across the state.
Property Tax Reform: A Growing Concern
DeWine acknowledged that rising property taxes are driving some Ohio residents out of their homes. After vetoing earlier reform bills that he felt would negatively affect schools, he formed a working group of auditors and educators to analyze the issue. Their recommendations resulted in four new legislative proposals that DeWine is currently reviewing.
The governor emphasized the challenge of balancing school funding with taxpayer relief, warning that eliminating real estate taxes entirely would require steep increases in other taxes.
School Funding Responsibilities
Addressing concerns from Columbus City Schools and other districts, DeWine noted that while the state provides significant funding, completely removing property taxes would destabilize school budgets. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced, sustainable funding model.
Death Penalty Pause & Future Decision
Ohio’s execution process remains paused due to drug access issues. DeWine explained that pharmaceutical companies warned the state against using their medications for executions, making lethal injection unfeasible. He plans to publicly outline his position in the coming months, though the legislature will ultimately decide how to proceed.
Signing Senate Bill 56 on Intoxicating Hemp
DeWine confirmed he will sign the bill banning intoxicating hemp products, citing concerns about underage access and rising emergency room visits among children.
Absentee Ballot Grace Period Debate
He is also reviewing legislation that would eliminate the four-day grace period for absentee ballots mailed before Election Day. With the U.S. Supreme Court reviewing a similar case, DeWine says the decision requires careful consideration.
Looking Back at the Year
DeWine highlighted the new scholarship program for Ohio’s top graduating students, offering $5,000 per year to encourage them to attend college within the state as a major achievement. Retention of top-performing students has already increased.
Though not all proposals have been passed, DeWine says he remains determined to continue pushing forward until his final day in office.
Columbus takes steps to enhance safety procedures after a fatal fire truck accident.
Fire Chief Jeffrey Happ faces disciplinary action over his response to a fatal 2023 fire engine crash.
Columbus Fire Implements Policy Changes After 2023 Fire Truck Collision
Columbus, OH – Columbus Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti has ordered major policy changes within the Columbus Division of Fire as Fire Chief Jeffrey Happ faces disciplinary action over his response to a fatal 2023 fire engine crash.
In a memo issued December 8, Pishotti directed Chief Happ to prohibit non-emergency U-turns by fire apparatus and to limit the authority of the Fleet Accident Review Committee (FARC). Her directive came the same day the city announced that Happ would be disciplined for how he handled the aftermath of the crash.
The policy revisions follow the 2023 incident in which firefighter Tyler Conners, then 25, attempted a U-turn on Interstate 270 in Gahanna without using emergency lights. The maneuver left the fire engine across multiple lanes and resulted in a collision that cost the life of 63-year-old Timothy Wiggins and injured his fiancée, Patricia Hesson.
The city later reached settlements totaling $941,000 with the Wiggins estate and Hesson. Including the replacement of the fire engine and external investigative costs, the crash has cost Columbus nearly $2.2 million.
Conners pleaded no contest to vehicular manslaughter in 2024 and received two years of probation. Despite the conviction, Chief Happ did not implement workplace discipline for Conners, an issue now at the center of the city’s administrative review.
Mayor Andrew Ginther called the incident a tragedy and expressed support for Pishotti’s commitment to transparency and accountability. When asked if Happ’s contract would be renewed for a second five-year term in February, Ginther said the process is still underway and must follow established procedures.
Pishotti has accused Happ of neglect of duty and instructed him to appear for a closed disciplinary hearing on December 16.
According to Steve Stein, president of Firefighters Local 67, the union does not oppose the newly announced policy changes and noted that Pishotti could have disciplined Conners earlier during his probationary period.
Pishotti’s updated Standard Operating Procedure now requires:
A complete ban on non-emergency U-turns by fire vehicles
Mandatory use of emergency lights and sirens when an emergency U-turn is necessary
Her memo also criticizes the Fleet Accident Review Committee after an external investigation revealed committee members were unaware of standard policies and even unaware of Conners’ criminal conviction.
Pishotti stated that she has “lost confidence” in the committee and directed Chief Happ to draft new policies that:
Restrict FARC from making disciplinary recommendations
Limit the committee to reviewing accidents and advising on policy and training
Transfer all disciplinary authority to the Division of Fire’s Administrative Investigations Unit
These changes aim to strengthen accountability, ensure proper handling of vehicle incidents, and prevent similar tragedies moving forward.
Trenton Rollins was first reported missing on March 16,2025
Authorities work with Chaos Divers and the Columbus Police Dive Team during the recovery at Hoover Reservoir.
Trenton Rollins Found Dead in Hoover Reservoir After 8-Month Search
Delaware, Ohio – Authorities have recovered the remains of a 21-year-old Delaware County man missing for more than six months after locating his vehicle submerged in the Hoover Reservoir.
Trenton Rollins was found on December 8 by Chaos Divers, an independent search-and-recovery organization, working alongside the Columbus Division of Police Dive Team. Both Rollins and his car were recovered from the reservoir.
Rollins was first reported missing on March 16, after he was last seen leaving home early that morning in his black 2018 BMW 430i. His mother, Brandi Rollins Greer, notified the Delaware County authorities and sought public help through social media, describing his disappearance as completely out of character.
According to the Delaware Police Department, early investigations suggested Rollins left voluntarily and no foul play was initially suspected.
Over the past eight months, Greer continued rallying community support, growing a Facebook group titled “Where is Trenton Rollins” to more than 4,000 members. She also worked with Chaos Divers and The SAR Sheps, a K-9 ground search team, to expand the search efforts.
Chaos Divers shared in a YouTube livestream that they believed Rollins might be found in a body of water. After multiple searches across Ohio, the team identified his vehicle on December 8. The Columbus Police Dive Team assisted in the official recovery on December 9.
A GoFundMe organized on December 2 supported the multi-day search, raising approximately $3,000 to aid the effort.
Delaware Police reported that early examinations indicate the remains are consistent with Rollins, though final confirmation and the cause of death are being determined by the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office.
In a statement, the Delaware Police Department thanked all agencies involved, including Chaos Divers, the Columbus Division of Police Dive Team, and additional investigative partners. Chaos Divers also expressed appreciation to local law enforcement agencies for their support.
New updates have been incorporated into this story.
