Emergency responders at the scene of a fatal SUV collision in Madison Township
2 Men Killed in Fiery SUV Crash After Collision with Tractor-Trailer in Madison Township
On September 22, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., a fatal crash occurred in Madison Township near Groveport, Ohio. A white 2004 Honda CR-V traveling northbound collided at high speed with the rear of a stopped 2000 Freightliner tractor-trailer on the 5800 block of Green Pointe Drive South.
The SUV caught fire upon impact, but emergency responders quickly extinguished the flames. Franklin County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Groveport police officers, and Madison Township medics responded to the scene. Tragically, both men inside the Honda were pronounced dead on-site. Their identities remain pending while authorities notify next of kin.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigation Unit is actively investigating the incident to determine the cause of the crash. This accident underscores the importance of driving cautiously near large vehicles and stopping tractor-trailers.
Thousands Gather at State Farm Stadium for Charlie Kirk Memorial Service in Glendale, Arizona
Thousands Gather at State Farm Stadium for Charlie Kirk Memorial Service
On September 21, 2025, thousands gathered at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, to honor Charlie Kirk, the 32-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated 11 days prior during a speaking event in Utah. The event drew an estimated 100 million viewers worldwide, highlighting the immense impact Kirk had on American conservative activism.
Thousands Gather at State Farm Stadium for Charlie Kirk Memorial Service in Glendale, Arizona
Speakers at the memorial included Vice President JD Vance, President Donald Trump, and Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who delivered a heartfelt message of forgiveness to the 23-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson.
The service featured worship, tributes, and calls to continue Charlie Kirk’s legacy, with President Trump describing Kirk as an “American hero.” The event also marked a notable public reconciliation with Elon Musk, symbolizing unity and the continuation of Kirk’s mission.
The memorial stood as a testament to Charlie Kirk’s dedication to conservative values and faith, leaving an indelible mark on American political discourse.
Police block off North High Street during investigation of a fatal Short North shooting.
Columbus Police Identify 25-Year-Old Man Killed in Short North Shooting
Columbus Police have identified 25-year-old J’Vontia Cassell as the victim of a deadly shooting in the Short North early Sunday morning, September 21.
Officers with the Columbus Division of Police were called to the 1100 block of North High Street around 2:45 a.m. on reports of a fight. When they arrived, officers heard gunfire.
Cassell was found suffering from gunshot wounds and rushed to Grant Medical Center in critical condition. He was later pronounced dead just after 5 a.m.
Police reported that a large crowd was present during the shooting. A second individual was treated on the scene for an unrelated medical issue.
Authorities have not released information about a suspect. Anyone with details is urged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or reach out anonymously to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).
Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Central Ohio on Sept. 21
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Central Ohio Counties
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Central Ohio on Sunday, September 21. The alert remains in effect until 5:30 p.m. for Fairfield County and southwestern Licking County.
The storm may produce dangerous wind gusts of up to 60 mph, posing risks of tree damage, downed power lines, and possible power outages.
Communities that could be affected include Newark, Lancaster, Reynoldsburg, Pickerington, Heath, Granville, Pataskala, Canal Winchester, Baltimore, Buckeye Lake, Hebron, Millersport, Pleasantville, Harbor Hills, Granville South, Fairfield Beach, Beechwood Trails, Summit Station, Thornport, and Etna.
Additionally, southeastern Franklin County and eastern Pickaway County are expected to experience strong thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 45 mph and the possibility of pea-sized hail.
Residents are urged to stay indoors, secure outdoor items, and monitor weather updates as the storm moves through Central Ohio.
Police block off North High Street during investigation of a fatal Short North shooting.
One Person Killed in Shooting on North High Street in Columbus
Columbus police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred in the Short North district early Sunday morning. According to a Columbus public safety dispatcher, officers were called to the intersection of North High Street and East 4th Avenue around 2:45 a.m. following reports of a fight.
An officer in the area reportedly heard gunfire. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The individual was rushed to Grant Medical Center in critical condition but was later pronounced dead shortly after 5 a.m.
As police continue their investigation, North High Street from West 4th Avenue to West 5th Avenue remains closed. Detectives are working to piece together the events leading to the fatal shooting.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.
Woman Shot in the Back in Akron, Police Investigating
Moreley Avenue Shooting: Woman Shot in the Back in Akron, Police Investigating
Akron police are investigating a Moreley Avenue shooting woman shot in the back, September 20. The incident occurred in the 600 block of Moreley Avenue, with officers responding to multiple reports of gunfire around 3:58 p.m.
According to Akron Police Lt. Michael Murphy, a woman sustained a gunshot wound to her back during the shooting. She was later taken to a local hospital, though authorities have not confirmed whether she was transported by paramedics or with private assistance.
Detectives are actively canvassing the neighborhood, interviewing residents, and gathering evidence in connection to the Moreley Avenue shooting woman shot in the back. At this time, the victim’s condition has not been disclosed.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Columbus Division of Police say an officer shot and injured an armed man after a traffic stop on the city’s southeast side.
Armed Man Shot After Traffic Stop on Southeast Side Columbus
An armed suspect fleeing a traffic stop was shot and injured by a Columbus police officer Friday evening on the southeast side of the city, according to Sgt. James Fuqua of the Columbus Division of Police.
The incident began around 5:05 p.m. near Burstock Road and Frebis Avenue, when officers attempted a traffic stop. Police say the driver refused to stop and continued to the 1400 block of Burstock Road before exiting the vehicle with a firearm in hand.
Officers believe the suspect may have been running toward a nearby family member’s home. Despite repeated commands to stop and drop the weapon, the man reportedly turned toward police while still holding the gun.
An officer then fired multiple shots, striking the suspect. He was transported to Grant Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries and remains in stable condition. Authorities confirmed the firearm was recovered at the scene.
A passenger in the vehicle complied with police commands and was not injured. No officers or civilians were harmed in the confrontation.
“This situation could have been avoided had the suspect complied with the traffic stop,” Sgt. Fuqua said during a press briefing.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) has taken over the case, with both the Force Investigation and Crime Scene units responding. Body camera footage from the incident is expected to be released soon.
Columbus’ John Glenn Airport slipped in passenger satisfaction, a new terminal set for 2029 promises major improvements.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport Drops in Customer Satisfaction Rating
Columbus, Ohio – John Glenn Columbus International Airport drops in customer satisfaction rating, according to the 2025 J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Once ranked in the top 10, CMH now sits at 11th place among medium-sized U.S. airports, signaling the challenges of operating a nearly 70-year-old terminal.
The study measures passenger experience across seven key areas: ease of travel, terminal facilities, airport staff, security and trust, food and retail, departure/arrival flow, and cleanliness. For Columbus, aging infrastructure and restroom quality were major factors that led to the drop.
Airport officials acknowledged the ranking but emphasized that a new, first-class terminal is scheduled to open in 2029. Until then, CMH is making smaller upgrades—improved signage, cleaner facilities, and local food options—to enhance the traveler experience.
Industry experts note that it is not unusual for airports to fall in rankings during major transition periods. Michael Taylor of J.D. Power explained that restroom conditions, lighting, and terminal design are among the strongest drivers of satisfaction scores.
Travelers themselves remain mostly positive. Many appreciate CMH’s smaller size compared to large hubs, citing easier navigation and faster arrivals. Still, passengers say cosmetic improvements—brighter spaces, modern restrooms, and more local culture would go a long way in boosting satisfaction.
In comparison, Indianapolis International Airport ranked highest among medium airports, followed by John Wayne Airport in California for large airports, and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International for mega airports.
With billions being invested nationwide in airport modernization, John Glenn Columbus International Airport’s new terminal aims to restore its top-tier ranking and deliver facilities that match Central Ohio’s growth and energy.
The U.S. Senate is preparing for critical votes on two short-term spending bills this Friday, as lawmakers rush to avoid a potential government shutdown ahead of the October 1, 2025 deadline.
Earlier in the day, the House of Representatives is expected to vote on and potentially approve the GOP’s seven-week “clean” continuing resolution (CR). If passed, the bill would move to the Senate for consideration.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) confirmed the chamber’s plan late Thursday: “We are going to do that,” he told reporters.
However, both the Republican and Democratic proposals are widely expected to fail. Thune indicated he would move to reconsider the GOP plan and schedule additional votes closer to the shutdown deadline. He also noted it is “unlikely” that the Senate will return next week, as the chamber is set to recess for the Jewish High Holidays and reconvene on September 29.
The Republican bill would extend government funding until November 21, maintaining fiscal 2024 spending levels. GOP lawmakers argue this temporary measure will give appropriators time to negotiate a longer-term budget deal for fiscal 2026.
The Democratic proposal, on the other hand, seeks to restore nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts from the GOP’s earlier spending bill and includes a permanent extension of enhanced health insurance premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. These subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year, making them a top Democratic priority.
“The contrast between the Democratic budget proposal and the Republican proposal is glaring,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). “Republicans want the same old status quo, rising costs, declining health care. Democrats want to lower costs and improve healthcare access.”
Republicans, however, remain firm. Thune emphasized that the subsidies are “not up for negotiation,” especially in a stopgap bill intended to keep the government funded for less than two months. GOP leaders urged Democrats to support the clean resolution, pointing out that similar measures have passed more than a dozen times in recent years.
With the shutdown deadline approaching, the standoff highlights deep divisions in Congress over government spending, healthcare funding, and fiscal priorities.
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel discusses Central Ohio’s job growth and career opportunities with Olentangy Schools students.
Jim Tressel Speaks on Central Ohio Workforce Growth at Olentangy Schools
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel visited Lewis Center on Thursday night to speak with Olentangy Schools students, parents, and staff about the future of Ohio’s workforce. With Central Ohio experiencing rapid growth as major companies continue to expand into the region, new job opportunities are emerging every year.
“We are fortunate here in Ohio, especially in Central Ohio,” Tressel said. “Today we are already seeing strong job growth, but in the next 5 to 8 years, the opportunities will be extraordinary.” He emphasized the importance of preparing young people now to meet future career demands.
Olentangy’s BridgED program plays a key role in that preparation. The initiative connects students with local employers in industries aligned with their career interests, giving them exposure and readiness before they graduate high school.
Molly Preston, assistant director of strategic partnerships at Olentangy Schools, reinforced the need: “Many large companies are choosing Central Ohio for headquarters and expansion. We want to ensure our students are ready to step into these roles.”
Some of the fastest-growing careers in Ohio include information technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. According to OhioHealth’s Workforce Development and Academic Partnerships team, employers are constantly hiring across all education levels.
Mindy Sanford, senior advisor at OhioHealth, noted that beyond technical expertise, employers also seek strong communication and adaptability skills. “We see fewer people comfortable with face-to-face conversations today, but these professional skills remain critical,” she said.
While acknowledging the current challenges for new college graduates, Tressel stressed that Ohio remains full of opportunity for those who are flexible. “Technology and techniques will always evolve,” he said. “That does not eliminate jobs, it just transforms the kinds of jobs available.”
Preston added that adaptability is key for students’ futures: “It is about awareness and flexibility, pursuing what you love, even if it looks different than you originally imagined.”
With Central Ohio’s booming economy, Olentangy Schools recognizes that early exposure to career pathways is essential for helping students succeed in tomorrow’s workforce.
