3 People Injured in Columbus COTA Bus Crash Near East Fifth Avenue
3 People Injured in Columbus COTA Bus Crash on Saturday
Columbus, OH – A crash involving a Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) bus occurred on Saturday morning in Columbus, Ohio, injuring three individuals. The incident happened around 11:11 a.m. near the intersection of East Fifth Avenue and North 20th Street on the city’s Near East Side.
Columbus police confirmed that all three people injured were transported to a local hospital in stable condition. Among those injured was the bus driver, though it’s still unclear whether the other two victims were passengers of the bus or involved in other vehicles.
This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more details become available.
Franklin County Deputy Robert Lampkin Reinstated After Felony Dismissal
Franklin County Deputy Robert Lampkin Reinstated After Felony Charge Dropped
In an official update, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office has announced that Deputy Robert Lampkin, 32, will return to active duty on April 27. Lampkin had previously been demoted from sergeant and placed on unpaid administrative leave following his arrest by Pataskala police earlier this month.
The sheriff’s office stated that the decision comes after a Licking County Common Pleas Court dismissed a felony fleeing charge against Lampkin during an April 24 probable cause hearing. While he will resume duty, Lampkin remains under internal investigation and still faces misdemeanor traffic charges, including accusations of driving over 100 mph in a 45 mph zone.
Court records reveal that on April 16, Lampkin was arrested after allegedly running a red light, failing to use a turn signal, and leading police on a high-speed pursuit through Pataskala. After reportedly crashing in a parking lot, Lampkin surrendered and informed officers of his employment with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. He claimed he panicked after realizing he was being pursued.
Deputy Lampkin, who joined the sheriff’s department in 2020, was still in his probationary period following a recent promotion to sergeant at the time of the incident. His unpaid leave officially ended on April 25.
Weekend lane closures on I-270 near John Glenn Columbus International Airport due to bridge construction.
Traffic Alert: I-270 Lane Closures and Detours Near John Glenn Columbus Airport This Weekend
Columbus, OH – Drivers traveling near John Glenn Columbus International Airport should prepare for major lane reductions and detours on Interstate 270 this weekend, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).
Starting Friday, April 25 at 8 p.m., northbound I-270 at Hamilton Road will be reduced to two lanes, with restrictions remaining in place until Tuesday, April 29 at 5 a.m. In addition, the Hamilton Road southbound ramp leading to I-270 northbound will be closed during this period.
Detour Information: Motorists will need to take Hamilton Road southbound to I-270 southbound, exit at Broad Street, and then merge onto I-270 northbound.
Meanwhile, Hamilton Road between Broad Street and Poth Road will be completely closed from Friday, April 25 at 6 p.m. to Monday, April 28 at 7 a.m. Crews will be working to replace storm sewers as part of the ongoing construction efforts.
Alternate Route: Drivers should follow Broad Street to Yearling Road, proceed to 5th Avenue, and reconnect with Hamilton Road — or follow the same route in reverse depending on their direction.
These closures are part of ODOT’s extensive Franklin County Bridge Rehabilitation Project, a major infrastructure initiative to replace seven bridges over I-270. Construction began in spring 2024 and is scheduled for completion by summer 2025.
Ohio Supreme Court Hears Case on Same-Sex Couples’ Parenting Rights
Ohio Supreme Court to Rule on Same-Sex Parental Rights Case
Columbus, OH – This week, the Ohio Supreme Court heard arguments regarding a case that could have significant implications for how parentage laws apply to same-sex couples. The case centers on Priya Shahani and Carmen Edmonds, a couple from Ohio who raised three children together through artificial insemination but separated before same-sex marriage was legalized in the state.
Though Shahani was the biological mother of the children, both parents legally recognized each other as equal co-parents and gave their children the hyphenated last name “Edmonds-Shahani.” However, the couple never legally married, and their relationship ended in 2015, just before the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage bans were unconstitutional.
The case escalated when Shahani removed “Edmonds” from their children’s last name and sought to terminate their formal parenting agreement. Edmonds subsequently petitioned the court in 2017 to establish her parental rights. However, the Hamilton County Juvenile Court ruled that Edmonds, as a non-biological parent and an unmarried partner, did not meet Ohio’s definition of a “parent.”
Following this, the trial court allowed Edmonds to maintain “companionship time” with the children but did not grant her the legal parentage she sought. Both parties appealed the decision, with the First District Appellate Court ordering further proceedings to determine if the couple would have married had same-sex marriage been legal at the time.
Shahani’s legal team argued that Ohio law does not permit retroactive marriages, while Edmonds’ lawyers claimed that the children’s identity and Edmonds’ parental rights were unfairly denied. This legal battle brings into question the future of same-sex parenting rights in Ohio and could have a lasting impact on how non-biological parents in same-sex relationships are treated under state law.
Community leaders and developers discuss the future of Latitude Five25 in East Columbus.
Plans for Latitude Five25 Presented to the Community
Columbus, OH – The future of the troubled Latitude Five25 apartment complex in East Columbus is now in the hands of community members and developers after a special meeting where the Latitude Five25 redevelopment plans were presented to the community. The meeting, hosted by the Near East Area Commission, was a key moment for locals to engage directly with the developers and share their feedback on the planned transformation of the now-closed property.
In December 2022, Latitude Five25 residents were displaced when burst pipes rendered the buildings uninhabitable, leaving tenants without water, heat, or fire protection. Since then, the 400-unit apartment towers have stood vacant, creating challenges for the surrounding community. However, the recent meeting gave hope that this site will soon see new life.
At the meeting, developers from Nuveen Real Estate, Simmons Corporation, and S. Cain Development unveiled their vision for the Latitude Five25 redevelopment. The proposal includes the creation of nearly 400 long-term affordable housing units, with half of the units designated for families earning at or below 60% of the area median income.
“We don’t come into anybody’s community and tell them what to do,” said Nadir Settles, Global Head of Impact Investing at Nuveen Real Estate. “We believe in mutual engagement, and that’s why we’re here today — to listen, incorporate feedback, and make sure this development aligns with the needs of the community.”
Max Zarin, Director of Development at Paths Development, reinforced the developers’ long-term commitment to the area:
“We will develop, build, and manage this site ourselves. Our model of vertical integration is built on the understanding that the community wants lasting accountability for the site.”
For longtime residents like Diane McCall, who has lived across the site for over 22 years, the presentation gave a glimpse of what could be a brighter future:
“I remember when the neighborhood was thriving,” said McCall. “Now, I’m just waiting to see the proof.”
Stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for the project and have committed to listening to community concerns. Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts with the development team by emailing [email protected].
The developers aim to welcome the first new residents of Latitude Five25 in Fall 2028, marking a significant milestone in East Columbus’ ongoing efforts toward urban renewal and affordable housing development.
Improving community safety through collaborative surveillance efforts in Columbus.
Columbus Launches Public and Private Surveillance Camera Network to Improve Downtown Safety
Columbus , OH – Columbus, Ohio is stepping up efforts to enhance downtown safety with a new initiative that unites public agencies and private businesses through a powerful surveillance camera network. The recently launched Safer Downtown Command Center, located in the Lazarus Building, brings together private security teams and the Columbus Division of Police to monitor live camera feeds around the clock.
Spearheaded by Downtown Columbus Inc., this public-private safety collaboration aims to boost both real and perceived security in the area. With over 100 surveillance cameras already covering public spaces, and 100 more planned by year-end, the city is expanding its technological reach to deter crime and encourage public confidence.
“This partnership is about restoring trust and revitalizing downtown,” said Greg Davies, CEO of Downtown Columbus Inc. “Post-pandemic and post-civil unrest, safety concerns kept people away. We’re changing that perception.”
Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant called the initiative a “force multiplier,” increasing law enforcement’s ability to proactively respond to potential threats and reassure the community that downtown Columbus is safe and welcoming.
The project was inspired by Detroit’s Project Green Light, which uses business-linked surveillance cameras to combat property crime. Columbus is adopting a similar model, but without the use of facial recognition or audio recording, prioritizing citizen privacy and civil liberties.
Thanks to a $1.5 million state grant, Downtown Columbus will deploy more cameras throughout key areas bounded by I-670, I-71, and the Norfolk-Southern tracks. Site selection is based on crime patterns and input from law enforcement.
“This isn’t about surveillance for the sake of it,” said Cmdr. Duane Mabry. “It’s about keeping people safe during protests, events, and everyday life in downtown Columbus.”
As the public and private sectors join forces, Columbus continues its mission to become a smarter, safer, and more connected city for all.
Columbus rolls out advanced 911 upgrades for improved multilingual and visual emergency response.
Columbus Upgrades 911 Services with AI Translation and Video Sharing Technology
Columbus , OH – The City of Columbus has taken a major step forward in emergency response by upgrading its 911 system with advanced AI translation and video-sharing features. These new tools aim to make contacting emergency services more accessible and inclusive for all residents.
With this 911 upgrade, Columbus now allows text messages to 911 to be translated in real time into over 55 different languages using AI-powered technology. A new video feature also enables callers to show live footage of their surroundings, helping dispatchers respond more effectively in urgent situations.
At a press event on April 23, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther emphasized that emergency services in Columbus should be equitable for everyone, regardless of language or immigration status. “No one should face barriers when seeking help,” he said.
The AI translation works across all mobile carriers for Latin-script languages. For non-Latin scripts like Arabic, the feature currently functions on AT&T devices. These upgrades are especially beneficial to non-English speakers, people with disabilities, or anyone unable to speak during an emergency.
Additionally, the 911 video-sharing feature lets dispatchers send a secure link to callers, enabling one-way video streaming to give a real-time view of the emergency scene. This is crucial for cases where callers can’t clearly describe their location or situation.
In 2024 alone, Columbus 911 handled more than 670,000 calls and 30,000 texts. These upgrades—provided under a $1.5 million contract with Intrado—are expected to enhance response times and improve public safety across the city.
Authorities investigate scene where Joe Swindler was fatally stabbed; son Micaiah Swindler taken into custody
Micaiah Swindler Charged After Fatal Stabbing of Father Joe Swindler in Marysville Home
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Marysville authorities have charged 27-year-old Micaiah Swindler with first-degree murder following the stabbing death of his father, Joe Swindler, inside their shared residence.
Police say the incident occurred on Monday, April 21, in the 1400 block of Meadowlark Lane near Northwoods Drive. Officers responded to a 911 call just before 12:35 p.m. and discovered Joe Swindler deceased in the bathroom, having sustained multiple stab wounds.
In a 911 call released to the media, Micaiah Swindler confessed, saying, “I’m not going to lie, I killed my father.” He later claimed that “God told me to.”
Following a brief search of the home, officers located Micaiah, who surrendered peacefully. No other individuals were present at the time of the incident, and both men were confirmed to be living at the residence.
On Wednesday, April 22, Micaiah was arraigned in Marysville Municipal Court and is currently being held at the Tri-County Regional Jail in Mechanicsburg on a $1 million bond. The investigation is ongoing and involves the Marysville Police Division, Union County Coroner’s Office, and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
This tragic death has left the Marysville community shaken, with many seeking answers to what led to this fatal stabbing between father and son.
Ohio State international student wins court order after SEVIS status was unexpectedly terminated.
Ohio State International Student Gets Court Protection After SEVIS Terminated by ICE
Columbus , OH – A federal judge in Columbus, Ohio has issued a temporary restraining order protecting an Ohio State international student after her SEVIS status was unexpectedly terminated earlier this month.
The student, an Indian national pursuing a Ph.D. in agricultural engineering at The Ohio State University, discovered her F-1 student visa status was terminated in the federal SEVIS system by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the week of April 7. According to court filings, the termination cited criminal records — yet the student maintains she was never notified and has only a minor 2020 traffic infraction on record.
This development put the ohio-state-international-student-SEVIS terminated case in the spotlight. On April 18, U.S. District Judge Algenon Marbley ruled that the Department of Homeland Security and ICE must reinstate the student’s SEVIS status and F-1 visa, enabling her to continue her education while the legal case is ongoing.
The judge’s order also temporarily blocks any enforcement actions, such as deportation, that might arise due to the visa issue. A preliminary injunction hearing is scheduled for May 8.
Legal counsel for the student warned that remaining out of status could have resulted in immediate deportation or a five-year ban from reentering the U.S. “If she returns to India voluntarily, a reentry bar would be triggered due to her visa status violation,” the lawsuit states.
This legal battle comes amid a broader wave of visa concerns across U.S. universities. Over 600 international students across 90 institutions have recently experienced similar SEVIS terminations or visa revocations, raising concerns among educators and legal advocates.
Ohio State President Ted Carter expressed support for affected students, noting that the university is actively seeking clarification from federal authorities. U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno commented that while he supports DHS processes, he is open to reviewing individual cases of concern.
In a separate but similar case, another Ohio State student from India, enrolled in a Ph.D. program in the History of Art, has also filed a lawsuit after his F-1 visa was revoked.
Members of the Catholic community attending a memorial Mass for Pope Francis at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Columbus, Ohio.
Catholic Community in Columbus Gathers to Honor Pope Francis at St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Columbus ,OH – Following the passing of Pope Francis, hundreds of faithful gathered at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Columbus, Ohio on Monday evening to honor the late pontiff’s memory. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus hosted a special memorial Mass to pray for Pope Francis and reflect on his impactful legacy.
“It was a surprise for many, especially as it seemed he was recovering,” noted Bishop Earl Fernandes, head of the Diocese. Pope Francis, aged 88, passed away early Monday morning due to a stroke and underlying health conditions.
Bishop Fernandes shared a personal connection, saying, “I feel this deeply, as Pope Francis appointed me Bishop of Columbus three years ago.”
As the first Latin American Pope, Francis brought a unique pastoral approach shaped by his experiences in Buenos Aires, especially his commitment to the poor and marginalized.
“His emphasis on mercy over judgment changed lives,” Fernandes said. “He reminded us to look at others with compassion.”
Bishop Fernandes also highlighted the Pope’s consistent call for peace: “He was a rare voice urging ceasefires and advocating for redirecting military budgets toward supporting marginalized communities.”
Despite the sorrow, Fernandes encouraged the faithful to find hope. “This is a Jubilee Year for Catholics — Pope Francis named it a year of pilgrimage and hope.”
He concluded that Pope Francis’ influence extends beyond the Church: “He was a unifier — among Christians and all people.”
The Vatican is expected to begin the papal selection process soon, with a new Pope anticipated by mid-May.
