Scene of the wrong-way motorcycle crash on SR-161 near Little Turtle Road, Columbus
Motorcyclist Killed in Wrong-Way Collision on SR-161 in Northeast Columbus
A tragic wrong-way crash occurred early Sunday morning on Columbus’ Northeast Side, claiming the life of a 34-year-old motorcyclist and leaving two others injured.
According to Columbus police, the incident happened around 12:09 a.m. on July 7, when Isaiah Allen was riding his motorcycle westbound in the eastbound lanes of State Route 161 near Little Turtle Road. The motorcycle collided with a Honda Accord traveling in the correct direction.
The impact occurred on the front passenger side of the vehicle, ejecting Allen onto the roadway. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene just minutes later at 12:14 a.m.
The two passengers inside the Honda were transported to Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital, where they were reported in stable condition.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash, including why the motorcycle was heading in the wrong direction.
Scene on Wilson Avenue after fatal shooting at a party in South Side Columbus.
17-Year-Old Cameron Moore Identified as Victim in Deadly Columbus Party Shooting
Authorities have identified Cameron Moore, 17, as the young victim killed in a tragic shooting early Friday morning at a party held inside a short-term rental on Wilson Avenue in South Side Columbus.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers were dispatched at 2:40 a.m. to the 800 block of Wilson Avenue, near East Livingston Avenue, after receiving reports of gunfire at a crowded party.
When officers arrived, they found three people with gunshot wounds, while three others had already transported themselves to local hospitals. In total, six individuals were shot, including two juveniles and four adults.
Moore was pronounced dead at Grant Medical Center at 3:09 a.m. His death marks yet another painful incident of gun violence involving a Columbus teenager.
Over 250 Attendees at Short-Term Rental Party
Security guard Earl Jones, hired to oversee the event, stated he had been told it would be a small gathering — but the crowd quickly swelled to over 250 people. The suspect reportedly arrived after the party had begun, but no arrests have been made, and a motive has yet to be confirmed.
Detectives are urging the public to assist the investigation by submitting any video footage from the party. Tips can be submitted via the Columbus Police QR code, by calling the Homicide Unit at 614-645-4730, or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
City Leaders React to Youth Violence
Mayor Andrew Ginther responded with sorrow and urgency:
“I am deeply saddened and angry that we lost a young person to violence last night. While crime is at a decade-low, this shows we must remain vigilant in protecting our youth.”
Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin echoed those sentiments:
“This kind of violence has no place in our city. Let’s step up, celebrate responsibly, and protect each other this weekend.”
Community Leaders Call for Accountability
Melissa St. Clair, founder of Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children, urged parents, guardians, and neighbors to remain alert:
“Our children deserve to come home safe. If you notice large gatherings — especially involving minors — at short-term rentals, please contact the authorities immediately.”
COTA President/CEO Monica Téllez-Fowler discusses LinkUS transit upgrades at a Columbus public meeting.
COTA CEO Monica Téllez-Fowler Leads $8 Billion Transit Transformation in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio – From her modest beginnings in East Dallas to becoming the dynamic President/CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), Monica Téllez-Fowler is leading one of the most ambitious public transit transformations in Ohio history.
Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, Téllez-Fowler’s life shifted after a mentor encouraged her to join a magnet school—igniting her path to education and leadership. She became the first in her family to graduate college and eventually earned an MBA from Texas A&M Central Texas.
Her early career in accounting and treasury roles eventually led her to public transportation, where she held executive positions with agencies in Texas and Washington. At each stop, she delivered large-scale infrastructure projects, including TEXRail and the I-5 bridge replacement project.
In March 2023, Téllez-Fowler joined COTA as Chief Operating Officer and quickly rose to Deputy CEO before being named President/CEO in May 2024. Her arrival came as COTA was preparing to launch the LinkUS initiative—an $8 billion plan to transform transportation across Central Ohio through Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), enhanced sidewalks, bike paths, and more.
Following voter approval in November 2024 for a sales tax increase to help fund LinkUS, COTA aims to boost service by 45%, expand into 24-hour service, and complete three BRT corridors, beginning with groundbreaking on West Broad Street in 2026.
Téllez-Fowler’s leadership also sparked a resurgence in ridership, improved labor relations with a historic collective bargaining agreement, and introduced modern tools like Smartcards and the Transit app.
Her community-driven leadership has earned praise from stakeholders, board members, and colleagues who see her as a visionary capable of uniting Columbus’ transit future with opportunity and access.
Emergency responders at the scene in Dover Township after a pit bull fatally attacked a 1-year-old girl.
Tragic Pit Bull Attack Claims Life of 1-Year-Old Girl in Dover Township, Ohio
A heartbreaking incident unfolded on July 2, when a 1-year-old girl was fatally attacked by her family’s pet pit bull during what authorities describe as a routine day at home.
Detective Captain Adam Fisher from the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office stated that the dog attack appeared to be entirely unprovoked. Emergency responders from the sheriff’s office and Dover Fire Department rushed to the scene after family members dialed 911. Sadly, the young child was declared dead at the residence.
Officials from the Tuscarawas County Coroner’s Office and sheriff’s detectives are investigating the incident. The family’s pit bull, an 8-year-old dog, has since been euthanized.
Due to Ohio state law mandating autopsies for sudden deaths of children under two years old in good health, the Cuyahoga County Coroner’s Office will be performing the autopsy.
At this time, no criminal charges have been filed. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full details of the tragic event.
Independence Day protest in Downtown Columbus draws crowds opposing Trump’s immigration bill and ICE actions.
Protesters Rally at Ohio Statehouse on Independence Day Against ICE Immigration Bill
Columbus, Ohio – Under the intense summer sun, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Ohio Statehouse on the Fourth of July to voice strong opposition to the ICE enforcement actions, and the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill.” The protest was organized by Ohio 50501 and the Columbus chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation.
Attendees held signs condemning the legislation and the administration’s policies, which critics say would reduce access to Medicaid and food assistance, expand funding for immigration enforcement, and solidify tax cuts introduced in 2017. Some protesters compared current U.S. practices to those in Nazi Germany, particularly referencing reports of masked ICE agents arresting immigrants for deportation.
One participant, Richard Anderson, 34, of Hilliard, said he joined the protest to stand against what he perceives as a growing culture of fascism and authoritarianism. Anderson also voiced outrage over a new migrant detention center in Florida dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” accusing the government of mimicking Nazi-era tactics.
Another protester, Richard Kaffenbarger, 66, of Plain City, described the bill’s passing as the moment he felt compelled to take action.
Ohio State Professor and Brother of Hakeem Jeffries Speaks Out
The protest featured a speech by Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries, associate history professor at Ohio State University and brother of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Drawing on Frederick Douglass’ historic “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” speech, Jeffries condemned what he described as the suppression of civil liberties.
He also criticized Ohio State President Ted Carter for dismantling diversity programs at the university following federal pressure. “All those Navy medals,” Jeffries said of Carter’s military background, “and he couldn’t stand up to a draft dodger.”
After the speeches, protesters marched through Downtown Columbus, escorted by the Columbus Division of Police’s dialogue team, who monitored from the sidelines while officers temporarily halted traffic to allow the march to proceed safely.
Thousands gather in Downtown Columbus for Red, White & BOOM! amid political tension and national reflection.
American Pride and Politics Clash at Red, White & BOOM! in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio – As fireworks lit up the Columbus skyline during the highly anticipated Red, White & BOOM! celebration, many Ohio residents gathered downtown not only to watch the sky explode in color, but also to reflect on what it means to be an American in today’s deeply divided political climate.
While the Fourth of July traditionally symbolizes freedom, unity, and national pride, a growing number of Americans are grappling with mixed feelings about their identity and values as citizens. A Gallup poll conducted between June 2–19 reveals that only 58% of U.S. adults describe themselves as “extremely” or “very” proud to be American — the lowest level of national pride recorded in U.S. history.
Against this backdrop, we took to the streets of downtown Columbus, interviewing attendees about patriotism, politics, and personal freedom.
Mixed Reactions to July 4th and the State of the Nation
The Red, White & BOOM! event — the largest fireworks show in the Midwest — offered a festive setting for a candid conversation on pride, progress, and partisanship.
For Todd Ireland, a mortgage underwriter from Hilliard, pride in his country remains unwavering. “We live in a terrific country that offers freedoms and opportunities that many across the world don’t have,” he said. A political independent, Ireland respects President Trump’s leadership and the promise of follow-through.
Others expressed disappointment, like Sarah Kirwin, an HR professional from Delaware, who believes patriotism also means speaking out. “Being proud of your country doesn’t mean ignoring its flaws,” she said. Her daughter, 9-year-old Ellie, shared her views, emphasizing concern over girls’ rights
Political Division Shapes Pride in America
Recent polling highlights a stark divide: 92% of Republicans reported strong national pride, while only 36% of Democrats felt the same — a 26-point drop from the previous year. The divide is partly attributed to reactions to the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a key legislative effort of the Trump administration, which is met with widespread public opposition.
Calvin Smith, a retired Republican from Columbus, expressed simple contentment: “You got your freedom, you can say what you feel — I never fell out of love with my country.” Meanwhile, Randy Urban, an IT worker and Army veteran from Lancaster, emphasized the freedom of opportunity that defines his sense of patriotism.
College student Booda Love, however, expressed anger and disillusionment after witnessing minority-focused initiatives at his university being phased out. “If we can’t protect diversity, then what are we protecting?” he asked.
As Columbus continues to serve as a microcosm of American sentiments, the clash between tradition and change remains central to the conversation.
Authorities respond to a mass shooting near Wilson Avenue on Columbus’ Southeast Side during a July 4 house party.
Southeast Columbus House Party Shooting Leaves Teen Dead, 5 Injured
Columbus, Ohio – A tragic house party shooting on Columbus’ Southeast Side has left one teenager dead and five others injured in the early hours of Independence Day.
Columbus police responded around 2:40 a.m. to multiple reports of gunfire at a residence on the 800 block of Wilson Avenue, just south of Livingston Avenue. Officers arrived to find three victims with gunshot wounds at the scene. Three more victims had already transported themselves to nearby hospitals.
According to Sgt. Joe Albert of the Columbus Division of Police, the shooting occurred after an altercation broke out during the party. Among the six victims were two juveniles and four adults. One of the juveniles, a teenager, was critically injured and later pronounced dead at 3:09 a.m. after being transported by Columbus Division of Fire medics.
The conditions of the remaining five victims have not been officially released, though police said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Community Leaders React
In response to the incident, Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin expressed frustration and sorrow via social media:
“I am angry and heartbroken that, yet another life was taken, and five more people were injured in a shooting on the South Side last night. This kind of violence never has a place in our city — yet it keeps happening.”
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased teen, pending family notification. As of Friday morning, no suspects have been arrested, and homicide detectives are continuing their investigation.
Police are urging anyone with information related to the Southeast Columbus house party shooting to contact the Columbus Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.
Tip Line
Anyone with information is encouraged to call (614) 645-4730 or submit tips anonymously at www.stopcrime.org.
Rep. Joyce Beatty, seen in a wheelchair, returned to vote after undergoing surgery.
Congresswoman Joyce Beatty Reveals Why She Missed a Key Vote in D.C.
Columbus, Ohio – In a compelling TikTok video posted by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty revealed the real reason she missed a critical vote on public media funding and foreign aid in June—she was recovering from hip replacement and eye surgery.
The video, shared on July 2, shows the 75-year-old Ohio lawmaker in a wheelchair, clutching a cane, with Jeffries applauding her “persistence and resilience.” Despite medical advice to rest, Beatty traveled from Ohio to Washington, D.C. to vote against the “Big Beautiful Bill.”
“She understands the stakes. That is why she got on a plane and came to the Capitol to cast her vote,” Jeffries said in the video.
Beatty’s office later confirmed her surgeries, though the exact timing remains unclear. Spokesperson Christine Thompson shared that the congresswoman is “feeling good” but did not address concerns raised by the viral video, including her use of a wheelchair and an eye covering.
TikTok users expressed mixed reactions—some lauded Beatty’s dedication, while others criticized her age and called for term limits in Congress.
Jeffries later delivered an 8-hour speech opposing the bill, which still passed by a narrow margin and was signed by Trump on July 4th.
This revelation sheds light on the personal sacrifices made by lawmakers and has reignited discussions around health, transparency, and leadership longevity in American politics.
Sean “Diddy” Combs faces sentencing after being cleared of major charges but convicted on lesser federal counts.
Sean Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking
Hip-hop mogul Sean Diddy acquitted Wednesday of major federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering but was found guilty on two lesser charges tied to prostitution under the federal Mann Act. The decision marks a dramatic moment in the rapper’s legal battle, sparking mixed reactions across the entertainment world and public.
In Manhattan federal court, Combs dropped to his knees and prayed after the jury cleared him of the most severe accusations. However, he was convicted of transporting individuals—including romantic partners and sex workers—across state lines for sexual purposes. These charges could bring up to 10 years in prison.
Combs, 55, remains in custody and was denied bail, with sentencing expected in October. His legal team, led by Marc Agnifilo, called the partial acquittal a “major victory,” while prosecutors cited the remaining convictions as proof of harm caused.
Ohio lawmakers speak out for and against Big Beautiful Bill before a major vote.
Ohio Leaders Disagree on Big Beautiful Bill Ahead of July 4 Vote
Columbus Ohio – As Congress prepares for a major vote, Ohio leaders disagree on Big Beautiful Bill, a sweeping economic package that would permanently extend 2017 tax cuts, reduce Medicaid spending, and add over $3 trillion to the national debt in the next decade.
The bill narrowly passed the Senate on July 1.
Republicans Push for Passage
Several Ohio Republican representatives are backing the bill, highlighting benefits like continued tax relief, protection for family-owned farms, and support for border security and national defense.
Rep. Mike Carey (Columbus) wrote that the bill is key to stopping “the largest tax increase in American history.” Rep. Jim Jordan (Urbana) called it “the largest tax cut for working Americans in U.S. history.” Rep. Dave Joyce emphasized the bill’s role in expanding energy production and safeguarding key programs.
However, not all Republicans are on board. Rep. Warren Davidson (Troy) remains undecided, citing concerns about the bill’s long-term impact on the national debt.
Democrats Strongly Oppose the Bill
Ohio’s Democratic representatives are united in their opposition. Rep. Joyce Beatty (Columbus) warned that the bill would take healthcare away from millions and increase food insecurity. Rep. Shontel Brown called it “one big ugly bill,” while Rep. Greg Landsman argued it would force hospitals to close and hurt vulnerable families.
Rep. Emilia Sykes (Akron) stated the bill prioritizes the wealthiest Americans and puts working families at risk.
Deadline Approaching
Supporters hope to pass the bill before July 4, branding it a patriotic win for American families. With Ohio leaders disagreeing on key provisions, all eyes are on the final House vote.
