WWMT-TV
Gas explosion destroys ice cream shop in Michigan, no one hurt
- Title
- Gas explosion destroys ice cream shop in Michigan, no one hurt
- Runtime
- 0:50
- Date posted
- 10 minutes ago
- Description
- No one is hurt after an ice cream shop exploded on Monday morning.
Grand Rapids Fire Department (GRFD) crews responded to Spad's Twisters, a mid-Michigan-based ice cream shop, on west Fulton Street and southwest Lane Avenue early on Monday morning when the building exploded, according to the shop owner Greg Finzel who rents the building.
Finzel said the building did not have anyone inside of it at the time of the explosion and no one is hurt.
"I can't describe it, it was like a dream. Unbelievable," Finzel said. "A lot of people were happy that we opened up when the old Dairy Queen shut down for a year and that we opened back up and that there was ice cream back on the west side so its kind of sad...I was able to employ 12 to 14 kids to work here...nobody was hurt and i have insurance on the place which is fantastic."
The Grand Rapids Fire Marshal said it was a gas explosion, however, cannot say the source of it at this time and GRFD ...
- Title
- LIVE : Court appearance for Detroit Lions' cornerback accused of leading kidnappings, robberies
- Runtime
- 2:43:33
- Date posted
- 36 minutes ago
- Description
- Terrion Arnold, drafted by the Detroit Lions out of the University of Alabama in 2024, turned himself in to the Tampa Police Department on several kidnapping and robbery charges last week.
On Monday, Arnold is back in court where prosecutors are expected to argue against releasing him from jail.
Arnold is considered the 'primary conspirator' in a plot that led to three men being lured to an apartment where they were held hostage, beaten and robbed at gunpoint in February, according to the Tampa Police Department.
The CEO of EAG Sports Management, which serves as Arnold's agents, released the following statement on his behalf:
"Terrion Arnold categorically denies any involvement in the matters underlying the allegations made against him and maintains his innocence.
There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations. Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted fel...
- Title
- Detroit Lions' Terrion Arnold accused of kidnapping, robbery. Your Morning Minute
- Runtime
- 1:19
- Date posted
- 7 hours ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute🌍
Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold is scheduled to appear in court on Monday after turning himself in to Tampa Police Department on several kidnapping and robbery charges.
Arnold is considered the "primary conspirator" in a plot that led to three men being lured to an apartment where they were held hostage, beaten and robbed at gunpoint in February, according to the Tampa Police Department.
The CEO of EAG Sports Management, which serves as Arnold's agents, released the following statement on his behalf:
"Terrion Arnold categorically denies any involvement in the matters underlying the allegations made against him and maintains his innocence."
"There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations. Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted felons who have admitted their own involvement and may have substantial incentives to shift blame ...
- Title
- Child firearm safety course offered in Kalamazoo, aims to prevent tragic accidents
- Runtime
- 2:34
- Date posted
- 7 hours ago
- Description
- In Kalamazoo on Sunday, children learned that firearms are not toys.
After tragic incidents around the country with younger and younger children behind the trigger, Action Matters Kalamazoo introduced grade school and middle school students to the basics of gun safety.
The group's Fathers Inspiring Sons Together (FIST) organization helped parents and children bond over practical skills like car care in the past.
After years of deliberation, they have now expanded those skills to a topic difficult for many parents to discuss: firearms and healthy ways to use them.
Certified gun trainer Charles Abrams stated off with a lesson on how guns work and what can go wrong with their misuse.
He then let them try shooting targets with realistic-looking plastic guns that only shot plastic pellets.
With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention naming accidents as the number one cause of death for children in the Unit...
- Title
- Growlers exact revenge on Leprechauns, earn split with 10-run win
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 21 hours ago
- Description
- The Kalamazoo Growlers (21-13) rode strong starting pitching and a late burst to a 14-4 win over the Royal Oak Leprechauns (17-17) on Saturday night.
Oliver Service opened the scoring by hitting his fourth home run against Kalamazoo this season, but that run was quickly answered by Chase Thomas who tied things at 1-1 on a sacrifice fly.
Kalamazoo found a run in the second and third innings to secure a 3-1 lead entering the fifth, but another Leprechaun solo home run brought Royal Oak within a run.
The Growler offense added a run in the sixth and three in the seventh, before Alex Burden exited for his final inning of work.
Despite giving up two runs in the top of the eighth, Burden was consistent all day. The left-hander was making his final appearance of his baseball career and played his heart out, going eight innings while giving up four runs and throwing 107 pitches.
“Eighteen years of playing the game, I was thinkin...
- Title
- "Brothers Forever" | Friends, family say final goodbyes for man killed in skate park shooting
- Runtime
- 1:36
- Date posted
- 1 day ago
- Description
- Saturday was a celebration and final goodbye for a Kalamazoo man who left an example for his friends and the community.
Telonn Horton was shot and killed at Davis Street Park in April, and now the Vine neighborhood is "taking back the park" in his honor.
The rally in his honor hoped to stop further violence in Kalamazoo and help the neighborhood feel safe in one of its own spaces.
“He's a legacy within me, he'll always live within me," his mother Jerell Gomis-Horton said.
She held back tears describing the words she wrote on the wall painted in her son’s favorite color.
Her writing and that of others filled in the space of a mural dedicated to the 29-year-old nicknamed Rose Lonny.
Prosecutors say on April 17th, the skateboarder and expectant father had an argument with friend Carlin Barcelo, who allegedly shot him in the neck and chest.
Lonny later died in the hospital.
Those who...
- Title
- Exploring Michigan: Authentic taste of Germany at Steinspark Biergarten in Portage
- Runtime
- 1:30
- Date posted
- 1 day ago
- Description
- You don't have to travel to Germany to experience some of the country's cuisine and beer. A beer garden in West Michigan hopes to give guests a taste of German culture.
Steinspark Biergarten and Food Court in Portage is now in its fifth season, attracting both newcomers and regulars looking for an authentic German beer garden experience.
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WWMT is a MI based station and a ...
- Title
- Parents face murder, torture, abuse charges after 7-year-old son with "morbid obesity" died
- Runtime
- 2:46
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- A 7-year-old boy’s death in Flint Township has led to second-degree murder and child abuse charges against his parents after authorities say they found him in distress inside a home with “deplorable conditions.”
Damien and Jessica O’Brien are jailed following a monthslong investigation, according to the Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutor David Leyton called the case “very sad.”
Police learned of the boy’s death after Jessica O’Brien called 911 on Nov. 4 and told dispatch her 7-year-old son, Casper O’Brien, was not breathing. According to the complaint, officers went to the family’s home on Dania Street and found the conditions inside were “horrible.”
“The situation at the house was just deplorable conditions really difficult situation involving hoarding,” Leyton said.
Leyton said officers also encountered a child in medical distress.
“The child had morbid obesity, was seven year...
- Title
- Looking for an authentic German beer garden experience? Let's explore Steinspark
- Runtime
- 3:03
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- You don't have to travel to Germany to experience some of the country's cuisine and beer. A beer garden in West Michigan hopes to give guests a taste of German culture.
Steinspark Biergarten and Food Court in Portage is now in its fifth season, attracting both newcomers and regulars looking for an authentic German beer garden experience.
“We are in our fifth season and I think we reached the exponential phase of the word-of-mouth because we see more and more newcomers,” owner Norbert Gimmler said. "They look around and say this is just like when I was in Germany. Yes, that's the whole idea."
Gimmler, originally from the central part of Germany, has lived in the United States for the last 34 years with his wife, Ute. After a career as a food process engineer, he felt the area could use a little slice of Germany.
“As a Michigander, I also have a story to tell from my heritage, and I want to share that with my fellow Michiganders,...
- Title
- Portage looks to revise ordinance untouched since 1963, public meeting to take place
- Runtime
- 1:14
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- The City of Portage is looking to hear from the public about an ordinance that hasn't been updated in decades.
The city's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) is a set of rules that determines what can be built and where.
Portage officially became a city in 1963, and the ordinance hasn't been revisited since then, according to City Manager Pat McGinnis.
"It's long overdue," McGinnis told News Channel 3.
The city has seen tremendous residential and commercial growth over the last few years, and updates to the ordinance allow them to be more streamlined and continue to build more growth.
"The UDO has been developed to modernize the city’s zoning, subdivision, and condominium development codes and create a more cohesive framework to guide future growth in Portage," the city said in a release.
The UDO affects things such as what types of homes are allowed in a neighborhood, minimum lot sizes and setbacks, street...
- Title
- Bill would prohibit Michigan employers from requiring employees to communicate off clock
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- A bill moving through the Michigan Legislature aimed at strengthening work-life boundaries is drawing discussion from both workers and employers.
Senate Bill 948, sponsored by Sen. Erika Geiss, D-Taylor, would prohibit employers from requiring employees to respond to work-related communications outside their usual work hours.
The proposed Workplace Employee Boundaries Act would also prohibit employers from retaliating against workers who choose not to respond.
Supporters say the legislation would help workers maintain a healthier work-life balance in an increasingly connected world.
“We are in an increasingly ‘always-on, always available’ economy and we must take action to protect workers and create stronger boundaries,” Geiss said in a statement to News Channel 3. “Too many workers are expected to be constantly available, answering emails, messages and calls long after their workday ends.”
Geiss said some con...
- Title
- Graduation rates improve at Battle Creek Public Schools: 'Indicator of lifelong success'
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- Even more students are turning their tassels at Battle Creek Public Schools.
Graduation rates are up from about 72% to 84% over the last two years, jumping back to pre-COVID levels of achievement.
Plus, in just five years, the district has gone from 64% of Black boys graduating to 92%.
“Graduation is a key indicator of lifelong success, and so we want to make sure that every child has that opportunity,” said Dr. Kim Carter, Superintendent. “For us to have a 70% graduation rate was not acceptable.”
As for the district’s secret to success when it comes to improving rates, Carter said it’s providing students with access to more resources and support.
Leaders also remain focused on one of their core philosophies: "We see every child by name, need and strength — your child's success is our priority and failure is not an option."
“We make sure that every kid has a personalized and individualized pla...
- Title
- Bagger Racing League returns to GingerMan Raceway
- Runtime
- 0:50
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- The Bagger Racing League makes its return to GingerMan Raceway in South Haven this weekend. There's reason to believe this won't be their last return, either.
For the third straight year, the BRL will call GingerMan home. It's also the third straight year that the BRL has visited the Raceway in the final week of June.
"I'm from the Midwest myself and we know the weather, the lush, green grass, the blue skies, the tree lines around the facility, it kind of really gives that sense that you're somewhere pretty special," said League founder Rob Buydos.
Founded in 2020, the Bagger Racing League offers what they describe as "old school motorcycle racing with new school modifications", intended to help the bikes reach top speeds while still offering peak handling around the track.
As for the South Haven-based track itself, it offers its own unique personal touch for those out on the course.
"GingerMan is a special track because ...
- Title
- Oshtemo Township still weighing BESS facility rules as residents push back with urgency
- Runtime
- 2:35
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- Residents in Oshtemo Township were expecting to see the first draft of rules that could shape whether a massive battery storage facility is built in their backyards, but township officials postponed the anticipated June 25 reveal because the ordinance is not ready.
The township has been speaking with some experts, in technology, environment, and law, to carefully craft an ordinance that would not stop a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) from being built, but would ideally guide how, what, and where, for the best interest of the township.
Many residents have voiced that they don't believe a BESS belongs anywhere in the rural township, but have come to contend with the likelihood.
Officials from several Southwest Michigan communities have voiced concerns about state law, PA 233, making it near impossible to reject renewable energy development. Instead, putting their focus on controlling it rather than stopping it.
News Channel 3 has ...
- Title
- Rural West Michgian data center neighbor concerns grow alongside announced expansion, active lawsuit
- Runtime
- 2:37
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- Frustration is melding into fear for a Dowagiac resident whose home sits next to a controversial data center, where he says, a subdivision once was.
On Friday, Hyperscale Data, Inc. announced plans to expand the facility, more than twice its current size.
The data center is already at the center of a class-action lawsuit on behalf of neighbors, who claim it is hurting property values and that the building's constant droning is audible from their homes, hurting their quality of life, as well.
A News Channel 3 crew visited a neighborhood right next to the site following Friday's announced expansion, and discovered the humming noise for ourselves.
One neighbor, who declined to appear on camera out of fear of “poking a growing bear," said he is living between a rock and a hard place, especially with the prospect of the data center growing even larger.
His home used to be surrounded by neighbors, he said, before manufacturin...
- Title
- Michigan food banks step up to fight summer hunger
- Runtime
- 2:56
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- School is out for the summer, and while that means no more math homework, it also means no more free meals.
According to Feeding America, more than 21 million children count on free food during the school year, and even though learning takes a break, hunger never does.
That’s where local food banks step in to help bridge the gap.
“There's a real need and a lot of those kids are getting their lunches and sometimes their breakfast food in school,” Peter Vogel, CEO of South Michigan Food Bank (SMFB), said. “So when the summer hits, where are those opportunities?”
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/summer-hunger-food-children-meals-where-get-michigan-food-banks-families-school-kids-program-lunches-dinner-sinclair-cares-wwmt
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- Title
- LIVE Weather Update
- Runtime
- 25:38
- Date posted
- 2 days ago
- Description
- Wonderful weekend weather, then prepare for big heat! Get caught up LIVE right here.
- Title
- Acker's messages, May's departure discussed at Michigan Board of Regents meeting
- Runtime
- 2:29
- Date posted
- 3 days ago
- Description
- A regent's messages and Dusty May's departure headlined the University of Michigan (U-M) Board of Regents meeting on Thursday.
Board members discussed the investigation launched into Jordan Acker's alleged lewd messages sent in a Slack channel about a female Democratic strategist and a female U-M student.
That investigation found that Acker did send the messages in 2020 and 2021, and that they were authentic.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/university-michigan-dusty-may-jordan-acker-board-regents-meeting-democratic-staffer-student-college-athletics-nil-transfer-portal-president-ann-arbor-washtenaw-county
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- Title
- Michigan shelter nearing capacity, young children accounting for 75% of intakes
- Runtime
- 2:36
- Date posted
- 3 days ago
- Description
- Unhoused families seeking shelter in Kalamazoo County are turning to the Landing Place for help, but the shelter is nearing capacity.
There are currently 208 people staying at the family transitional housing shelter, 158 of which are young children who account for 75% of intakes.
"Their ages range all the way from a couple weeks old all the way up to 17, but a majority of our families have kids under six," Andrea Tramel, executive director of Family Promise of Southwest Michigan, said. "We really only wanted to do one or two intakes a day because again that's trauma informed but because the demand is so great we've been doing intakes as high as five a day."
The facility has designated spaces for kids to make them feel comfortable and safe.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/landing-place-kalamazoo-county-family-transitional-housing-shelter-capacity-young-children-kilgore-road-community-west-michigan
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St...
- Title
- Contaminated site of former Michigan paper mill to be cleaned up for affordable housing
- Runtime
- 2:09
- Date posted
- 3 days ago
- Description
- A former Kalamazoo paper mill site is being cleaned up with help from a $1 million state grant, clearing the way for affordable housing units intended for people in Kalamazoo County’s problem-solving courts.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is providing the grant for the 6.6 acre property on Belford Street in the Edison Neighborhood, which now sits empty after years of discussions about how to reuse the site. It was used by Allied Paper Corporation and closed in 1997.
The development will become the William Schma House, a 48-unit apartment project that also provides support for people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/kalamazoo-former-paper-mill-apartments-recovery-housing-allied-corporation-contamination-grant-money-edison-neighborhood-project-addiction-wwmt-michigan
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- Title
- Controversial flock camera vandalized. Your Morning Minute
- Runtime
- 1:14
- Date posted
- 3 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute! It's Friday!
A Flock camera was vandalized 📹
WMU raises tuition 💸
A Lions' CB is facing felony charges ⚖️
Teanna Barnes tells us more:
Sponsored by @SamBernsteinLawFirm
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For more information, visit https://www.wwmt.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: desk@wwmt.com
Call the Newsroom: 800.875.3333
WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Br...
- Title
- Michigan college says goodbye to Sustainable Brewing program: 'Decisions like this are never easy’
- Runtime
- 1:41
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- After more than 10 years of teaching and tapping, a joint beer brewing program between Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC) has run dry.
The Sustainable Brewing program, hosted at KVCC, taught students how to make beer by diving into topics of production, hospitality, and business.
Since its launch in 2015, students have even earned awards from national brewing competitions, but as the industry changes, leaders said they need to do the same.
"Decisions like this are never easy, but they reflect our responsibility to align our programs with where students and the industry are headed," Kalamazoo Valley Community College President L. Marshall Washington said.
According to KVCC, low enrollment and declining conditions within the brewing industry led to the decision to end the program.
As for where the brewing industry stands, a sliding scale from the Brewers Association shows the number of b...
- Title
- Deputies searching for suspect who cut down Flock camera in Kalamazoo County
- Runtime
- 1:41
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Kalamazoo County Sheriff's deputies are looking for someone they say intentionally cut down a Flock license plate reader camera in Cooper Township.
According to Sheriff Richard Fuller, the camera on D Avenue was damaged by someone who got out of a car and cut it down.
Flock cameras capture license plate information and vehicle characteristics, such as make, model and color.
Fuller says the cameras do not use facial recognition technology and that collected data is automatically deleted after 30 days unless it is tied to a criminal investigation.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/kalamazoo-county-investigating-flock-camera-vandalized-cut-down-license-plate-reader-surveillance-west-michigan-local
#news #michigan #flock #camera #investigation #vandalism #crime #localnews #westmichigan #police #sheriff #kalamazoo
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- Title
- Back to two-ways? This Michigan city is considering a road conversion after fatal hit-and-runs
- Runtime
- 3:13
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Kalamazoo city leaders are planning a traffic study on South Westnedge Avenue following two deadly hit-and-run crashes there this year.
According to City Traffic Engineer Dennis Randolph, the study set for 2028 will consider converting South Westnedge Avenue, North Westnedge Avenue and Park Street back to two-way traffic.
The streets were converted to one-way routes in the 1960s to improve traffic flow.
"That worked, but what it did was also cause crashes because people started going faster," Randolph said.
Randolph said the proposal would follow the city's planned two-way conversion of Michigan and Kalamazoo Avenues downtown, a change he believes will help slow traffic.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/south-westnedge-avenue-two-way-conversion-traffic-study-hit-run-crashes-fatal-police-city-investigation-travel-kalamazoo-county-west-michigan
#news #michigan #kalamazoo #traffic #road #conversion #twoway #oneway #s...
- Title
- Detroit Lions' Terrion Arnold ringleader of kidnappings and robberies, police say
- Runtime
- 1:58
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- The Detroit Lions drafted Terrion Arnold out of the University of Alabama in 2024 to be a lockdown cornerback.
Arnold got locked up on Wednesday after turning himself in to the Tampa Police Department on several kidnapping and robbery charges.
Arnold is considered the 'primary conspirator' in a plot that led to three men being lured to an apartment where they were held hostage, beaten and robbed at gunpoint in February, according to the Tampa Police Department.
The CEO of EAG Sports Management, which serves as Arnold's agents, released the following statement on his behalf:
"Terrion Arnold categorically denies any involvement in the matters underlying the allegations made against him and maintains his innocence.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/terrion-arnold-arrested-detroit-lions-kidnapping-robbery-hostage-tampa-florida-hillsborough-county-nfl?teaserSource=trending
#news #sports #detroitlions #terrionarnold #foo...
- Title
- Western Michigan trustees approve tuition increases, extend president’s deal
- Runtime
- 1:47
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Western Michigan University (WMU) students will pay higher tuition next school year after the university’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved increases intended to offset rising costs Thursday.
According to trustees, students who live in Michigan seeing a 4% increase. This applies to graduate and online students as well.
For context, a freshman from Michigan will pay nearly $16,600, an increase of $638 from last year. Out-of-state students will face a 6% increase.
Jan Van Der Kley, treasurer of the WMU Board of Trustees, said the tuition increase is needed as the university deals with higher costs.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/western-michigan-university-tuition-increase-president-deal-extension-budget-approval-education-funding-kalamazoo-county
#news #michigan #westernmichiganuniversity #budget #tuition #students #president #deal #extension #localnews #education #westmichigan #kalamazoo
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- Title
- At least 188 dead, 1,500 injured after powerful twin earthquakes devastate Venezuela
- Runtime
- 2:43
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Venezuelans searched for survivors beneath collapsed buildings Thursday and rescue teams raced to northern areas rocked by a pair of powerful earthquakes that officials say killed at least 188 people and left more than 200 trapped.
More were feared dead from the 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck Wednesday evening — among the strongest in Venezuela in more than a century and felt throughout the region. Some 1,500 people were injured, thousands were reported missing and buildings were evacuated as far away as Brazil’s Amazon.
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For more inf...
- Title
- Law professor provides legal context to Battle Creek teen detention as debate grows
- Runtime
- 1:30
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- The viral detention of a Battle Creek teenager continues to spark debate across West Michigan as new scrutiny is being placed not only on body camera footage that has circulated widely online, but now on the responding officer’s own written police report obtained by News Channel 3.
For days, community members have questioned whether Battle Creek police officers acted appropriately when 16-year-old Jeremiah Spearman was stopped, physically detained and later handcuffed during a June 14, 2026 encounter near Greenwood Avenue and Hubbard Street.
The controversy has largely centered around whether officers used excessive force and whether race played a factor in how quickly Jeremiah became a subject of suspicion.
After reviewing the officer’s five-page report and speaking with a legal expert, a clearer and far more complicated picture is beginning to emerge.
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- Title
- 'Association of Gravestone Studies' nonprofit visits West Michigan
- Runtime
- 1:11
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Kalamazoo is rich with history, especially in its cemeteries.
This is especially true at Mountain Home Cemetery off of West Main Street, where the Association of Gravestone Studies (AGS), an international nonprofit organization, visited on Wednesday.
The organization features visitors from all across the country, including some coming from overseas. Leaders told News Channel 3 they have had people from Australia and Canada in years past, and a visitor from the United Kingdom this year.
AGS is hosting its annual conference this week in Grand Rapids, touring different cemeteries across West Michigan.
AGS, based out of Greenfield, Mass., was founded in 1977 with the goal of studying and preserving gravestones across the country.
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- Title
- LIVE Weather Update
- Runtime
- 20:21
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Damp, cool weather continues with a HUGE warm up next week. Get caught up LIVE right here!
- Title
- Recall elections set for two Comstock Township trustees after petitions
- Runtime
- 2:37
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Comstock Township voters will decide in November whether to keep two current trustees in office after recall petitions gathered enough signatures to put both seats on the ballot, according to the Kalamazoo County clerk on Wednesday.
Trustees Kristie Cherry and Bob Pratt will be on the ballot come Nov. 3, essentially rerunning for the positions they won in 2024.
The vote will be on whether to remove the elected officials from their seat, and if so, who should replace them.
The two board seats were not expected to be up for election again until 2028, but successful recall petitions mean the offices will now be contested early.
William Knight, the sponsor of the recall petitions, said the effort grew out of frustration with how the township board has been voting.
Following the county clerk's recall election announcement Wednesday morning, Knight told News Channel 3 that he and the more than 1,800 residents who signed the pet...
- Title
- Morning Minute - Gravestone experts, German biergarten, free ice skating
- Runtime
- 1:05
- Date posted
- 4 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute!
Experts in gravestones are visiting West Michigan 🪦
Explore a German biergarten in Portage 🍻
And, a renovated ice rink is offering free skating ⛸️
Julie Williams WWMT tells us more!
Sponsored by @SamBernsteinLawFirm
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WWMT is a MI based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and op...
- Title
- Three schools in rural Michigan come together to create one football program
- Runtime
- 1:59
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Players that once went head-to-head will now be joining forces.
Bangor, Lawrence, and Covert are coming together to form a new co-op football program, known as the Van Buren Vipers.
“It's tough to hold the numbers up to hold two teams,” Ryan Casey, head football coach, said. “So, the idea was if we merge all three, we can get us back to where we want to be.”
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/van-buren-vipers-football-combine-schools-bangor-covert-lawrence-high-school-team-new-ryan-casey-coach-michigan-sports-wwmt
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WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-oNVYSgKM8IBYJOY5M-p37vKcILekLNz
For mor...
- Title
- International nonprofit 'Association of Gravestone Studies' visits Kalamazoo
- Runtime
- 1:31
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Kalamazoo is rich with history, especially in its cemeteries.
This is especially true at Mountain Home Cemetery off of West Main Street, where the Association of Gravestone Studies (AGS), an international nonprofit organization, visited on Wednesday.
The organization features visitors from all across the country, including some coming from overseas. Leaders told News Channel 3 they have had people from Australia and Canada in years past, and a visitor from the United Kingdom this year.
AGS is hosting its annual conference this week in Grand Rapids, touring different cemeteries across West Michigan.
They have already visited Paw Paw and Battle Creek this week, and will finish their tour on Saturday in Grand Rapids.
AGS, based out of Greenfield, Mass., was founded in 1977 with the goal of studying and preserving gravestones across the country.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/international-nonprofit-associati...
- Title
- Community board to review footage of police detaining 16-year-old Michigan boy
- Runtime
- 6:25
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Newly obtained dashcam video shows the moments before a 16-year-old boy was approached by Battle Creek police, in a controversial confrontation now under review by the city’s Community Oversight Board.
The video, obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, shows Jeremiah Spearman walking June 14 before officers detained him. It's connected to body camera footage the Battle Creek Police Department released last week showing officers detaining the teen.
Police have said Spearman had a face covering. However, the dashcam video, like the body camera footage released so far, appears to show his face uncovered. In a police report, an officer said he noticed a “younger Black male wearing a full face covering."
It's a claim Spearman and his mother have questioned.
“They also say he had on the full face mask, where was the full face mask at?” said Martricia Spearman, Jeremiah Spearman’s mother.
News Channel 3 ...
- Title
- Man killed in hit and run crash on Westnedge Avenue in Kalamazoo
- Runtime
- 2:39
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- A 32-year-old man is dead after a hit and run on Wednesday morning.
Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) officers said a 32-year-old man died on Wednesday after 3 a.m. after a vehicle hit him near the intersection of south Westnedge Avenue and west Cedar Street.
Officers responded to the area after calls about a person lying in the road who had been hit by a vehicle.
Emergency responders closed south Westnedge Avenue at Lovell Street for about four hours.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/kdps-investigates-serious-traffic-crash
#news #michigan #kalamazoo #publicsafety #hitandrun #crash #carcrash #investigation #police #westmichigan #localnews
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- Title
- President Trump on Nancy Guthrie: "I hope they find her"
- Runtime
- 2:43
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie made an emotional on-air plea Tuesday for information about her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, after reports surfaced that a second ransom note sent to the family claimed the missing woman had died shortly after her abduction.
Speaking directly to viewers, Guthrie urged anyone with information to come forward.
"I just want to take the opportunity to ask people, to really beg people to come forward. Somebody knows something," Guthrie said. "This is a new story today that is on your radar, but this is the life that my sister lives, I live, my brother lives, our extended families live, our children live every day. We are in agony."
According to multiple media reports, the second ransom note stated that Nancy Guthrie "perished shortly after she was taken" and is "buried in nature now." The note also reportedly included an apology from the suspects, saying, "We are truly sorry."
CNN reported that the indivi...
- Title
- Police speak publicly for first time since detaining teen twice in controversial incidents
- Runtime
- 2:52
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Editor's Note: The body camera footage shown at the beginning of this video is from the first incident of Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) detaining 16-year-old Jeremiah Spearman on June 4, 2026. Discussions about a full face covering, or "shiesty," are relevant to the second instance of BCPD detaining Spearman on June 14, 2026.
-
A full face covering known as a "shiesty."
One key reason cited by the Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) for having "reasonable articulable suspicion" to legally detain a teenager in Washington Heights on June 14, as permitted under U.S. Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, is unsubstantiated in new video of what happened before the teen was stopped and handcuffed.
The first sentence, written by the responding officer, identified only as N.L. 202261, in the initial incident report, reads: "I noticed a younger black male wearing a full face covering known as a 'sheisty.'"
The boy was walking westbound on...
- Title
- Police speak publicly for first time since detaining teen twice in controversial incidents
- Runtime
- 3:48
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- A full face covering known as a "shiesty."
One key reason cited by the Battle Creek Police Department (BCPD) for having "reasonable articulable suspicion" to legally detain a teenager in Washington Heights on June 14, as permitted under U.S. Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio, is unsubstantiated in new video of what happened before the teen was stopped and handcuffed.
The first sentence, written by the responding officer, identified only as N.L. 202261, in the initial incident report, reads: "I noticed a younger black male wearing a full face covering known as a 'sheisty.'"
The boy was walking westbound on Greenwood Avenue, the officer wrote, with his left hand "clutching his waistline" while his right hand swung freely.
He also wrote, "through my training and experience I know that people who wear a mask and conduct this behavior are trying to conceal their identity."
The new video's release comes on the heels of a forum h...
- Title
- Bill to ban Michigan employers from requiring workers to communicate off clock. Your Morning Minute
- Runtime
- 1:19
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Good Morning Minute🏛️
A bill moving through the Michigan Legislature aimed at strengthening work-life boundaries is drawing discussion from both workers and employers.
Senate Bill 948, sponsored by Sen. Erika Geiss, D-Taylor, would prohibit employers from requiring employees to respond to work-related communications outside their usual work hours.
The proposed Workplace Employee Boundaries Act would also prohibit employers from retaliating against workers who choose not to respond.
Supporters say the legislation would help workers maintain a healthier work-life balance in an increasingly connected world.
Jared Tinklenberg, owner of HighDive Kitchen and Bar in Kalamazoo, said he also supports employees having personal time and agrees workers should not face retaliation for not responding outside of work.
However, Tinklenberg said he believes lawmakers should consider industry-specific exemptions for busi...
- Title
- Former MSU quarterback Kirk Cousins ready for busy week in West Michigan
- Runtime
- 0:54
- Date posted
- 5 days ago
- Description
- Former Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins is preparing for a busy week in West Michigan.
The Holland native spent Tuesday at Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids. Cousins, who owns Clearbrook Golf Club in Saugatuck, shared golf tips and life lessons alongside area teaching pros at the Bank of America 'Golf with Us' golf clinic, benefitting about 60 kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids.
The 4-time Pro Bowl QB will also host a two-day football camp for kids entering 4th-6th grade on Wednesday and Thursday at Holland Christian High School.
Campers will run through team activities, drills and scrimmages, to further develop their skills and character.
Cousins, who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in the offseason, is entering his 15th season in the NFL.
Prior to signing with the Raiders, Cousins had a two-year stint with the Atlanta Falcons after six seasons with the Vikings where he recorded over 4,000 passing ...
- Title
- LIVE: Newly appointed Grand Rapids police chief's first public address
- Runtime
- 26:41
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- The city's new police chief is addressing the community on Tuesday for the first time since his appointment to the position on Monday.
Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) Chief Joseph A. Trigg, announced to the position on Monday, is addressing the community on Tuesday at 11 a.m. following a months-long search for former GRPD Chief Eric Winstrom's departure in March.
Winstrom announced his departure from GRPD in February after being selected as police chief for the Pensacola Police Department in Florida.
Trigg is assuming the chief position after more than 25 years of law enforcement experience in Grand Rapids including serving as interim police chief and deputy police chief to Winstrom.
The four finalists for the role, including Trigg, attended an event last week to meet the community as a final piece of the city's decision making process.
City officials selected Trigg over Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Crimina...
- Title
- BODYCAM: Police department scrutinized for tackling, handcuffing teen in Michigan
- Runtime
- 9:28
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Newly obtained body camera footage from an encounter between Battle Creek police and a 16-year-old is raising additional questions about officer decision-making and whether the level of force used against the teen was necessary.
The footage stems from a June 4 encounter involving 16-year-old Jeremiah Spearman, whose family says the incident left him fearful just 10 days before a second interaction with Battle Creek Police on June 14.
That second encounter later went viral online, prompting growing community concern over how officers approached the teen.
Full story: https://bit.ly/4oOCA0D
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WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlis...
- Title
- LIVE: John James, recent Trump-endorsed governor candidate, attends Zeeland prayer breakfast
- Runtime
- 26:27
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Fresh off an endorsement from President Donald Trump, Michigan gubernatorial candidate John James is in Ottawa County on Tuesday morning for a prayer breakfast.
James, currently a Republican representative for Michigan's 10th Congressional district since 2023, is joining faith leaders and members of the community on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. for a prayer breakfast where he will answer questions people may have for him, according to his office.
President Trump announced his endorsement of James in a Truth Social post on Monday, saying he has the "courage and wisdom to deliver strong results for the incredible people of his wonderful state."
He went onto commend James for his work as a businessman and in Congress, expressing faith in his ability to grow Michigan's economy, reduce taxes and "unleash American energy dominance."
In response, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel called James a "two-time statewide loser."
...
- Title
- Tuesday Evening Weather Chat
- Runtime
- 13:29
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Rain returns to West Michigan on Wednesday afternoon. Meteorologist Collin Rogers has a look at how much rain we can expect and a big warm up that is on the way for next week.
- Title
- Recently appointed Grand Rapids police chief delivers first public address in new role
- Runtime
- 1:37
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- The City of Grand Rapids has named Joseph A. Trigg chief of the Grand Rapids Police Department.
Trigg, who has more than 25 years of experience in Grand Rapids, succeeds former chief Eric Winstrom, who departed earlier this year.
His appointment is effective immediately.
City Manager Mark Washington said Trigg was a top candidate across all panels and community feedback.
“Chief Trigg embodies exactly what our community told us they want in their next police chief — someone who loves justice, who understands that public safety is not achieved by law enforcement alone, but through strong partnerships with the community,” Washington said. “His leadership reflects a deep commitment to collaboration, innovation and ensuring Grand Rapids continues its journey to become the safest city in the Midwest."
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/grand-rapids-police-department-chief-joseph-a-trigg-grpd-appointed-new-who-public-add...
- Title
- Bodycam reveals details of West Michigan teen's first detainment before viral video
- Runtime
- 2:33
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Bodycam footage is unveiling new details in the first encounter between Battle Creek police and a 16-year-old at the center of a viral video.
Officers with Battle Creek's Gang Unit tried stopping Jeremiah Spearman, 16, when he was walking down Jordan Street without shoes and with his hands in his pockets on June 4.
According to the footage, officers were responding to reports that Spearman had allegedly been chasing down someone who had upset a family member.
Officers can be heard saying Spearman initially ran from them, though that alleged interaction is not captured on camera.
"Come here, get your hands out of your pockets," an officer can be heard yelling to Spearman.
Officers grab the 16-year-old's arms, and he resists in what further becomes a struggle. An officer eventually wraps their arms around Spearman and tackles him to the ground.
"Oh my god, oh my f------ god I don't have nothing, stop," Spearma...
- Title
- This Michigan city is looking to revise an ordinance older than the moon landing
- Runtime
- 1:13
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- The City of Portage is looking to hear from the public about an ordinance that hasn't been updated in decades.
The city's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) is a set of rules that determines what can be built and where.
Portage officially became a city in 1963, and the ordinance hasn't been revisited since then, according to City Manager Pat McGinnis.
"It's long overdue," McGinnis told News Channel 3.
FULL STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/portage-public-meeting-unified-development-ordinance-revisions-city-building-residential-commercial-1963-michigan-rules-wwmt
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WWMT Daily News Digest: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-o...
- Title
- High school graduation rates back to pre-COVID levels in Battle Creek, Michigan
- Runtime
- 2:08
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Even more students are turning their tassels at Battle Creek Public Schools.
Graduation rates are up from about 72% to 84% over the last two years, jumping back to pre-COVID levels of achievement.
Plus, in just five years, the district has gone from 64% of Black boys graduating to 92%.
“Graduation is a key indicator of lifelong success, and so we want to make sure that every child has that opportunity,” said Dr. Kim Carter, Superintendent. “For us to have a 70% graduation rate was not acceptable.”
As for the district’s secret to success when it comes to improving rates, Carter said it’s providing students with access to more resources and support.
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Subscribe to WWMT on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAYwomlsmN0DsPeeumEKFXg/?su...
- Title
- Was the level of force used in this Michigan teen's detainment necessary?
- Runtime
- 2:44
- Date posted
- 6 days ago
- Description
- Newly obtained body camera footage from an earlier encounter between Battle Creek police and a 16-year-old at the center of a now viral arrest video is raising additional questions about officer decision-making and whether the level of force used against the teen was necessary.
The footage stems from a June 4, 2026 encounter involving 16-year-old Jeremiah Spearman, whose family says the incident left him fearful just 10 days before a second interaction with Battle Creek Police on June 14, 2026. That second encounter later went viral online, prompting growing community concern over how officers approached the teen.
Jeremiah’s mother, Martricia Spearman, says what happened on June 4th helps explain why her son was unwilling to stop for officers days later.
“I feel like they need to have different policies for different age groups. Adults and kids should not be treated the same,” she said.
STORY: https://wwmt.com/news/local/battle-...
