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Govenor Mike DeWine Responds as Child Deaths in Franklin County Spark Alarm

Governor Mike DeWine speaks at a Coca-Cola plant in Columbus amid growing concerns over child deaths in Franklin County.
Governor Mike DeWine discusses the Franklin County child welfare crisis during a press tour at Coca-Colaโ€™s new Columbus facility.

Govenor Mike DeWine Responds as Child Deaths in Franklin County Spark Alarm

Columbus, Ohio – Govenor Mike DeWine Responds as Child Deaths in Franklin County Spark Alarm. In the past 15 months, Franklin County has witnessed the heartbreaking deaths of five children โ€” Darnell Taylor, Martonio Wilder, Emmanuel Mims, Ja’Kai Smith, and Eva Bretz โ€” all resulting from abuse or neglect. These tragedies have raised widespread concern, particularly since all five children had previous involvement with Franklin County Children Services.

Speaking during a tour of Coca-Colaโ€™s new Columbus facility, Governor Mike DeWine โ€” a longtime child welfare advocate โ€” addressed the rising concerns.

โ€œWe are watching Franklin County very closely. Itโ€™s deeply concerning,โ€ DeWine said, referencing previous state interventions in under-resourced counties.

Although DeWine did not confirm direct intervention yet, a spokesperson from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) stated that the department is working hand-in-hand with Franklin County, providing technical assistance and ongoing support. Unlike some smaller counties where the state has stepped in completely, Franklin County has its own Quality Improvement Departmentโ€”a resource DCY believes can make a difference with added support.

According to the Ohio Child Fatality Review report covering 2018โ€“2022:

  • 52% of child fatalities were caused by abuse and 48% by neglect
  • 69% of these children were under five years old
  • Black children accounted for 36% of these deaths, highlighting racial disparities
  • Bodily assault was the leading cause of abuse-related fatalities

The report also emphasized the link between child endangerment and poverty, housing instability, and food insecurity โ€” conditions that are all too common for many Ohio families. These challenges not only increase vulnerability to abuse and neglect but also limit access to critical support services.

As the investigation continues, state officials, county agencies, and community stakeholders are being urged to work together to prevent further tragedies and ensure that no child in Ohio falls through the cracks.


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Two Found Dead in South Hampton Road Home in East Columbus: Murder-Suicide Investigation

Scene of the South Hampton Road murder-suicide in East Columbus
Columbus Police investigate the scene where two individuals were found dead in a South Hampton Road home.

Two Found Dead in South Hampton Road Home in East Columbus: Murder-Suicide Investigation

Columbus, Ohio – Columbus Division of Police has confirmed that a murder-suicide occurred in East Columbus after two individuals were found dead in a home on South Hampton Road on Monday afternoon.

Officers responded to a shooting call at approximately 3:20 p.m. at a residence located in the 400 block of South Hampton Road, near Fairmoor Elementary School. Upon arrival, they discovered the bodies of a 64-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman, both with apparent gunshot wounds.

The Franklin County Coroner’s Office identified the victims as Anthony Martin and Renita Hilson-Ziegler. Medics pronounced both individuals dead at 3:33 p.m. A gun was located near one of the victims, though investigators have not confirmed which individual discharged the firearm.

A family member discovered the victims after not hearing from one of them for several days. The police investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at 614-645-4730 or reach out to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).

For more updates on Columbus crime news and local stories, stay tuned.


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Hon. Mohamed Adow Visits Columbus, Ohio – Kenya’s Member of Parliament for Wajir South

Hon. Mohamed Adow speaking with the East African diaspora community during his visit to Columbus, Ohio
Hon. Mohamed Adow engages with the East African community during his impactful visit to Columbus, Ohio

Hon. Mohamed Adow Visits Columbus, Ohio – Kenya’s Member of Parliament for Wajir South

Columbus, Ohio – The community in Columbus, Ohio was honored by a special guest โ€” Hon. Mohamed Adow, the Member of Parliament for Wajir South, Kenya, and a leading voice in global climate justice and African diplomacy. His visit was more than political; it was deeply personal, inspiring, and rooted in shared values of faith, equity, and responsibility.

Representing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Hon. Adow brought warmth, wisdom, and a powerful message to the Kenyan and Somali diaspora. He engaged with students, religious leaders, families, and professionals, leaving many in the community uplifted and reconnected to their roots and purpose.



From Wajir to the World

Hon. Adowโ€™s life story is nothing short of extraordinary. Raised in the arid region of Wajir, where resilience is a way of life, he rose to international recognition as a fearless journalist with BBC World Service and Al Jazeera English. For nearly two decades, he reported on war zones, humanitarian crises, and climate disasters across Africa and the Middle East โ€” always telling the human story with integrity and compassion.

In 2012, his bold journalism was recognized globally when he received the Journalist of the Year Award at the Montecarlo IV Festival. But his journey didnโ€™t stop with journalism.

Motivated to be part of the solution, Hon. Adow transitioned into advocacy, becoming Director of Power Shift Africa, a think tank focused on climate justice. He emerged as a respected African voice in international climate negotiations, consistently reminding the world that those who contribute least to the climate crisis suffer the most.

Today, as Member of Parliament for Wajir South, he brings that same passion to national leadership โ€” advocating for environmental justice, better infrastructure, media freedom, and policies that protect the vulnerable.

Grounded in Faith, Committed to Community

A proud Muslim, Hon. Adowโ€™s values are shaped by his faith. He speaks often about Islamโ€™s call to justice (adl), stewardship of the earth (khalifah), and the responsibility to uplift the poor and voiceless. His visit to Columbus was filled with moments of spiritual reflection, laughter, and community dialogue โ€” from mosque visits to heartfelt exchanges with elders and youth.

In every encounter, he encouraged the East African diaspora to stay engaged, informed, and active โ€” both in the countries they now call home, and in their beloved Kenya.

A Legacy of Learning and Leadership

Hon. Adow holds a Masterโ€™s in Media Communication from the University of Leicester in the UK and a Diploma in Journalism from the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication. Fluent in English, Kiswahili, Arabic, Somali, and Amharic, he bridges communities across borders, faiths, and generations.

His special interests โ€” media, communication, and foreign affairs โ€” continue to guide his work on the global stage.

โ€œWherever you are โ€” whether itโ€™s Wajir, Nairobi, or Columbus โ€” never forget that your voice matters. Your faith and heritage are your foundation. Use them to lead, to serve, and to build bridges,โ€ he told a room full of young East African professionals in Columbus.


Hon. Mohamed Adowโ€™s visit was a powerful reminder that leadership doesnโ€™t begin in parliament โ€” it begins in the heart. And in every corner of the world, including Columbus, Ohio, he reminded us that we are all part of the story of justice, dignity, and change.


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$1.6 Billion Water Plant Set to Power Columbus Growth by 2030

$1.6 Billion Water Plant Set to Power Columbus Growth by 2030
Future Home Road Water Plant to supply clean, solar-powered water across Columbus

$1.6 Billion Water Plant Set to Power Columbus Growth by 2030

Columbus, Ohio – A major infrastructure project is underway as the city breaks ground on a $1.6 billion water plant set to power Columbus growth and meet rising demand for decades to come.

With the regionโ€™s population expected to surpass 3 million by 2050, water usage has already climbed from 136 million gallons per day in 2012 to nearly 150 million gallons in 2024. To address this surge, the City of Columbus has begun construction of the Home Road Water Plant, a facility designed to produce 48 million gallons of water per day, with potential expansion to 80 million gallons daily.

The new water supply will travel through over 20 miles of underground pipelines, connecting Delaware County, Dublin, and Columbus, ensuring clean water delivery to homes, businesses, and future developments across the region.

In a move toward renewable infrastructure, the facility will be powered by floating solar panels, making it one of the most sustainable water plants in Ohio. โ€œThe entire plant can operate on solar energy,โ€ said John Newsome, Administrator at the Columbus Division of Water. This approach supports the city’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency.

The plant, located at the former Scioto Juvenile Correctional Facility site, is part of Columbusโ€™ strategy to prepare for future growth and changing weather conditions, including two-year drought scenarios.

Once operational in 2030, the Home Road Water Plant will become the fourth active plant in the cityโ€™s system and will serve the expanding northwest region. The investment will lead to an eventual adjustment in water rates, though exact figures are still under review.

During construction, nearby wells may be temporarily affected due to underground de-watering. Residents experiencing issues are encouraged to report them to the city for prompt assistance.

With this major step forward, Columbus is securing its water future with a plant that is reliable, scalable, and sustainableโ€”supporting growth, resilience, and innovation.


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Columbus City Council Commits $1.5 Million to Provide Legal Support for Tenants Facing Eviction

Columbus City Council Approves $1.5 Million Tenant Legal Aid Funding
City Council members voting to fund eviction legal aid for Columbus residents.

Columbus City Council Commits $1.5 Million to Provide Legal Support for Tenants Facing Eviction

Columbus, Ohio – In a bold move to address the cityโ€™s worsening housing crisis, Columbus City Council commits $1.5 million toward providing legal support for vulnerable tenants facing eviction. The council unanimously passed the ordinance on Monday evening, marking a major investment in tenant protection and eviction prevention services in Columbus, Ohio.

The funds will be distributed through the cityโ€™s Department of Development in partnership with Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio. These legal services will support low-income families, especially those living at or below the federal poverty level with dependent childrenโ€”offering free legal representation in civil eviction cases where no counsel is typically guaranteed.

According to City Council President Shannon Hardin, more than 25,000 residents were evicted in Columbus last yearโ€”highlighting the urgent need for intervention. The new funding will help stabilize families, reduce displacement, and ensure legal fairness.

The program is expected to run through the end of the year, with Hardin pledging that this initiative will be included in future budgets. Additionally, the council is backing a $500 million affordable housing bond, appearing on the November 2025 ballot, to further expand housing options across Columbus.


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Former Ohio State Wrestler Kyle Snyder Arrested in Columbus Prostitution Sting

Former Ohio State wrestler Kyle Snyder arrested in Columbus police prostitution sting on May 9, 2025
Kyle Snyder, Olympic gold medalist and Ohio State alum, arrested during a Columbus prostitution sting.

Former Ohio State Wrestler Kyle Snyder Arrested in Columbus Prostitution Sting

Columbus, Ohio – Former Ohio State wrestler Kyle Snyder has been arrested as part of a prostitution sting, confirmed by the Columbus Division of Police on May 9.

The arrest was part of an undercover initiative by the departmentโ€™s Police and Community Together (PACT) unit, targeting illegal activity in north Columbus. Around 8:15 p.m., officers received calls and texts from an individual responding to a decoy ad. A meeting was arranged at a local hotel, where Kyle Snyder allegedly exchanged cash for sexual services with an undercover officer.

He was arrested at the scene by uniformed officers and later released. Snyder is set to appear in court on May 19.

Kyle Snyder, who became the youngest American to win Olympic gold in wrestling during the 2016 Rio Games, also earned a silver medal in the Tokyo Olympics. He is a three-time NCAA champion and three-time world champion and recently signed with the Real American Freestyle Wrestling League.

Snyder was reportedly one of 16 men arrested during the operation, according to Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert.


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Ohio Hemp Businesses Could Close if Senate Bill 86 Passes

Ohio hemp store owner speaking out against Senate Bill 86
Retailers fear Senate Bill 86 will hurt Ohioโ€™s hemp economy and force shops to close.

Ohio Hemp Businesses Could Close if Senate Bill 86 Passes

Columbus, Ohio – As Ohio legislators move forward with Senate Bill 86, hemp business owners across the state are voicing serious concerns. If passed, the bill could force hemp-derived products off the shelves of gas stations, convenience stores, and smoke shops, requiring them to be sold exclusively in licensed marijuana dispensaries.

Currently, hemp is legal under both federal and Ohio law, but this bill could redefine how and where hemp products are accessed โ€” and that has the industry on edge.

Ahmad Khalio, operator of the Hippie Hut Smoke Shops in Columbus, said the legislation would be devastating to his business.

โ€œHemp takes up about 40% of our margins. If these bills go through, weโ€™ve already told employees layoffs are likely,โ€ Khalio shared.

The bill stems from concerns raised by Governor Mike DeWine, who has expressed a desire to ban the sale of โ€œintoxicating hempโ€ in locations accessible to minors.

โ€œYou have got young kids walking into gas stations and buying this garbage,โ€ DeWine said. โ€œThe legislature needs to take action.โ€

Although a similar bill failed to pass in last year’s General Assembly, Senate Bill 86 passed unanimously in the Senate just two weeks ago. It was referred to the General Government Committee in the Ohio House on May 7, and its progress is being closely watched.

If passed, the Ohio Department of Commerce will be responsible for establishing new rules on licensing, packaging, labeling, and advertising for hemp products โ€” all of which could significantly affect how small businesses operate.

Not all lawmakers support an outright ban. Republican State Rep. Bill Seitz advocated for balanced regulation over prohibition.

โ€œWe can regulate these products without banning them entirely. Many stores are making a decent living from hemp sales,โ€ he said.

But as uncertainty builds, many local retailers fear the worst. Khalio emphasized that Ohio hemp businesses could close if Senate Bill 86 passes, and that would mean lost jobs, lost revenue, and less access for consumers.

As the bill moves through the House, business owners, employees, and community advocates continue to push for fair regulations that allow the hemp industry to survive โ€” and thrive in Ohio.


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One Person Seriously Injured in Hilltop Shooting on Wedgewood Drive Sunday Afternoon

Police investigate Hilltop shooting on Wedgewood Drive, Columbus Ohio, Sunday afternoon
Columbus Police at the scene of a Sunday afternoon shooting on Wedgewood Drive

One Person Seriously Injured in Hilltop Shooting on Wedgewood Drive Sunday Afternoon

Columbus, Ohio – A person was seriously injured in a Hilltop neighborhood shooting on Wedgewood Drive Sunday afternoon, according to the Columbus Division of Police.

Officers responded around 4:35 p.m. to the 700 block of Wedgewood Drive, near Wedgewood Village Apartments, after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found a victim with multiple gunshot wounds. The individual was rushed to Grant Medical Center in critical condition and is expected to survive.

Police have not yet released information about a suspect or motive, and the incident remains under active investigation.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Brian Elrod at 614-645-4141, or anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story in Columbus, Ohio.


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Father Arrested After Stabbing Son in East Columbus, Police Confirm

Police on scene after father arrested for stabbing son in East Columbus
Columbus police investigate fatal family stabbing in East Columbus

Father Arrested After Stabbing Son in East Columbus, Police Confirm

Columbus, Ohio – A heartbreaking incident occurred late Friday night in East Columbus when a man was fatally stabbed and his father taken into custody. According to Columbus police, the incident happened on the 1100 block of Barlowe Run Drive, near North Waggoner Road, around 10:45 p.m.

Responding officers found 24-year-old Vincent Wilburn with multiple stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at 11:00 p.m. on the scene.

His father, 54-year-old Christopher Wilburn, was arrested and later confessed to the stabbing during a police interview, according to Franklin County Municipal Court records. He has been charged with murder.

This tragic event underscores the need for ongoing awareness around domestic and family-related violence. Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).


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Columbus Police to Boost Security in the Short North Area This Summer

Columbus Police increase security in the Short North area during summer events.
Columbus Police are boosting their presence in the Short North area to ensure safety this summer.

Columbus Police to Boost Security in the Short North Area This Summer

Columbus, Ohio – As the summer season draws near, Columbus Police are making sure the Short North area remains safe and secure with heightened security measures. With the arrival of bustling events such as the annual Hops on High festival, which attracts thousands of visitors, local law enforcement is taking proactive steps to ensure public safety.

The Columbus Division of Police has announced plans to increase its presence across the Short North, using a combination of bike patrols, motorcycles, and cruiser units. This added security will be particularly visible during major events, where thousands of visitors will flock to enjoy live music, local vendors, and vibrant outdoor activities.

“We want to make sure everyone feels safe as they enjoy the many events and attractions in the Short North this summer,” said Mayor Andrew Ginther. “Expect to see an increased police presence, advanced lighting systems, and additional surveillance cameras throughout the area.”

Police Chief Elaine Bryant emphasized that the department will be utilizing intelligence-gathering strategies to monitor potential risks, particularly during the evening when the district can become more crowded. Officers will be ready to respond quickly to any issues that may arise, ensuring both residents and visitors are safe.

Many locals have expressed their appreciation for the increased focus on security. “During the day, I feel safe, but it can get a little sketchy at night,” said Will Pischel, a Short North resident. “Iโ€™m glad the police are taking action to improve safety.”

Keiandra Clark Mielke, who has lived in the area for five years, shared similar sentiments. “When it gets late, it can feel a little intimidating. Iโ€™m relieved to know the police will be around more often at night,” she said.

With these enhanced security efforts, the Short North Arts District is ready to host a vibrant summer of events, while also ensuring the safety of all who visit.


Stay updated on event schedules and security measures for the Short North this summer, and plan your visits to enjoy the lively atmosphere with peace of mind!


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