The Gordie Howe International Bridge is finished and ready for traffic, and Canadian officials say all systems are go for it to open Monday. But U.S. officials have yet to officially confirm the opening or any celebration on the American side leaving businesses and residents frustrated.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Gordie Howe Bridge set to open Monday, but US officials still haven't confirmed

Eugene Cooley, owner of Evie's Tamales in Southwest Detroit, has spent the past several years feeding workers who helped build the bridge. He wants to see more business come through his doors and knows the bridge opening could make that happen.

"It's frustrating because, you know, we're trying to prepare for more business," Cooley said.

When asked whether workers had shared their feelings about the delays, Cooley said their reaction mirrors his own.

"I think it's still just a typical frustration with everything that they've seen, all their hard work come to fruition finally and for it to not be open yet and the back and forth," Cooley said.

The bridge was set to open to traffic last month. It is now scheduled to open this upcoming Monday. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority even has a countdown on its website marking the days until that happens.

However, after President Trump imposed a 50% tariff on many Canadian goods this week, a joint grand opening celebration between U.S. and Canadian officials was canceled. Canada is now planning its own celebration on Friday at 11:30 a.m.

PREVIOUS STORY: Gordie Howe International Bridge opening ceremony set for Friday on Canadian side Gordie Howe International Bridge opening ceremony set for Friday on Canadian side

A spokesperson for the Canadian Minister of Housing and Infrastructure released the following statement:

In light of trade action threatened by the United States earlier this week, it would be inappropriate to proceed with a celebratory event between the two countries. The Gordie Howe International Bridge remains a vital infrastructure project that reflects years of hard work and will be a major economic driver in the region, expanding options for commuters, tourists, businesses, and families. In turn, we remain committed to opening the bridge on July 27th, and to celebrating this milestone among Canadians on July 24th. The Canada-Michigan Crossing Agreement and the recently negotiated parallel Agreement in Principle between Canada and the United States remain unchanged.

U.S. officials have still not provided official confirmation of the opening or any planned celebration on the American side.

Governor Whitmer's office, reached Thursday, said it is still waiting for official word from federal officials. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra's press secretary responded, saying in part: "We have to wait for DC concurrence."

The only response from the White House addressed the opening in broad terms with White House Spokesman Kush Desai releasing the following statement:

Nothing will change the fact that President Trump renegotiated an incredible deal for America on the Gordie Howe Bridge, and nothing will deter President Trump from negotiating more good deals for American workers, industries, and taxpayers.

The lack of a direct answer has added to concerns about the real-world impact of continued delays on business, travel, and commerce.

Dr. Jeff Rightmer, associate professor of teaching of supply chain management at Wayne State University, said the bridge's opening will have wide-reaching benefits.

"The ease of getting in and out of both Detroit and Canada is going to be a lot quicker," Rightmer said. "The flexibility for the business world and the average commuter, it just can't be understated."

A representative with U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed agents will be on the ground at the bridge Monday a signal that the opening may be moving forward for the project that took eight years to complete and cost $4.7 billion dollars.

Cooley said he is hopeful the wait is finally over.

"Fingers crossed for sure because we know it's done, it's over with, it's built, it's ready for traffic, so let's get done with the hold-up and let's get this party going," he said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Thousands of Catholics from across the country gathered at Huntington Place in Detroit Wednesday for a massive one-day faith event called "Rising from the Ashes Revival," hosted by the Archdiocese of Detroit.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Catholic gathering at Huntington Place highlights hope

The event featured speakers, prayer and music aimed at connecting Catholics and inspiring hope during a time of uncertainty for the faith community. For the first time ever, a Eucharistic procession was led through the streets of Detroit by Archbishop Edward Weisenburger. The Archdiocese's leadership says they've never had a procession of this size in the area.

Walking in unity, in love, who are really different from each other," said Father John Riccardo, a speaker at the event.

For many, the gathering was about unity at a moment when division feels prevalent.

"It's just wonderful to see everybody here together without any division; we're all on the same page, we all want to love god and to live in the image of Christ," Theresa Maszczak from Ohio said.

Bishop Robert Fisher, Regional Moderator for the Northeast Region of the Archdiocese, said the event was designed to address anxiety that has lingered in the community since the pandemic.

"A lot of anxiety over the last year since COVID, and we just want to bring people together," Bishop Fisher said.

Faith leaders say the event has been years in the making, driven in part by a steady decline in church attendance and the stressors of the world. All ticket sales from the event are being donated to five local charities: the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, the Pope Francis Center, Better Way Detroit, Mary's Mantle and Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan.

Father John said the timing of the revival reflects a deeper cultural need.

"Our culture is longing for hope on so many levels right now, and I think it's true here in the city of Detroit, and the Archdiocese of Detroit, God's doing something with everybody who's present, and I think that's hopefully contagious," he said.

The event also comes as the Archdiocese of Detroit undergoes a massive restructuring in response to a growing shortage of priests and financial challenges. Dozens of churches could be affected when it comes to having weekend Mass.

Archbishop Weisenburger addressed the restructuring in our one-on-one conversation with him Wednesday, saying consolidation could ultimately strengthen the church community.

WEB EXTRA: Archbishop Edward Weisenburger speaks on Rising From the Ashes Revival, restructuring plan Archbishop Edward Weisenburger speaks on Rising From the Ashes Revival, restructuring plan

"When you have parishes that just have a few people there, a few people there, a few people there, there's sadness, frustration, all kinds of challenges; when you bring people together again, the church really clicks," Weisenburger said.

When asked what he would say to parishioners struggling with the prospect of losing churches that hold deep personal and cultural significance, Weisenburger acknowledged the weight of those ties.

"In the Catholic world, our faith gets woven into the bricks and mortar and those sacred places, just so substantial for us, but at the end of the day our Lord is going to ask us, did you move hearts to conversion or did you take care of buildings?" the Archbishop added.

Painter, an attendee from Dearborn, said she sees the decline in Catholic numbers as a call to action.

"It's our fault. We don't have enough Catholics because we didn't go out there and Evangelize. So this is kind of a consequence of that, and we're doing the best, and now we just need to focus on spreading the faith, and growing our numbers and being the family that God called on us to be," Painter said.

Riccardo offered a message of reassurance to those worried about what changes may come.

"Some things are gonna change. But what doesn't change is God's love and his faithfulness," Riccardo said.

The Archdiocese does not plan to announce restructuring plans until April of next year. A free Christian concert at Huntington Place is scheduled from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Wednesday.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A 27-year-old man was shot and killed overnight outside a music studio in Oak Park, leaving artists, staff, and nearby business owners shaken.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Man found shot & killed inside vehicle outside of Oak Park music studio

According to the Oak Park Department of Public Safety, officers were dispatched to Sanctuary Studios, in the area of 8 Mile and Meyers in Oak Park, for a report of suspected gunshots around 2 a.m.

When officers arrived, they found the man inside a vehicle dead. No other injuries were reported. The victim has not yet been identified.

Antonio "Big Tone" Hood, a sound engineer and producer at Sanctuary Studios, said he learned about the shooting when he woke up after working late Thursday into Friday at another job.

"Just like anything in life, stepping outside is a risk, but I never thought Sanctuary would be a place where someone would lose their life," Hood said.

Hood works with artists from across metro Detroit, offering music production, recording, and video production at the studio.

"It's unfortunate that anyone died, but I was really scared that one of my friends, one of my coworkers, was involved. It was really sad," Hood said.

Police have not yet identified the 27-year-old victim. Detroit artist Deargod, who has recorded at Sanctuary Studios for years, said the shooting came as a complete surprise.

"I've never had a problem there, I've never had a bad encounter, a bad feeling," Deargod said. "I've invited my family, my friends there.

Deargod and Hood both describe the studio as living up to its name a genuine sanctuary for local talent. Hood says the studio also actively promotes anti-gun violence and even holds events to share that message.

"I've never had a problem with anything, so yeah, it is kinda a shocker in that way," Deargod said.

The shooting also hit close to home for Amber George, owner of Haus of Bloom, a business located just a little over a mile from the studio. George relocated there last month after leaving her previous location on Fenkell in Detroit following another shooting death earlier this year.

"This is too close to home. It's way too close to home," George said.

George said the cycle of gun violence is taking a toll on business owners and customers.

"It's traumatizing to be a business owner, have to put my life in danger and my customers, so we try to move and make sure we have a good location and regardless...it just follows us," George said.

Hood said he believes conflict should never reach the point of deadly violence, and there will be a meeting to reevaluate security. The studio will remain closed for the remainder of Friday.

"I feel like there's never a reason for it to get to that point. There's always other ways to resolve conflict," Hood said.

Right now, police say there are no more additional details available. Police are still investigating.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Oak Park Police Detective Ryan Beasley at 248-691-7515.

A first-of-its-kind Catholic revival event is coming to Detroit on July 22, bringing thousands of Catholics together for a full day of worship, speakers, prayer, a concert and a massive Eucharistic procession through the streets of downtown.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Catholic revival event comes to Detroit for first time with procession through downtown

Rising from the Ashes Revival will be held at Huntington Place, with doors opening at 7:30 a.m. The procession will be led by Detroit Archbishop Edward Weisenburger.

Father Joe Mallia, the founder of the event, said the idea was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person services and community connection were stripped away.

"We just realized that something needed to be done to help people reconnect with their faith," Mallia said.

The event comes at a significant moment for the local Catholic community, with a large restructuring of local churches on the horizon. Organizers say it is an opportunity for Catholics from around the world to come together.

Related video: 'A hard reality' Detroit Archdiocese maps future restructuring amid fewer priests, less money 'A hard reality.' Detroit Archdiocese maps future amid fewer priests, less money

Kelli Miller, a parishioner at St. Kieren Catholic Church and an organizer, said the event reflects the unity at the heart of the faith.

"This is a community, and our church is one church. We're all here for Jesus no matter what building we're in. We're all here together and that's what it's really about," Miller said.

The choice of Huntington Place as the venue also carries special meaning. The building features a mural dedicated to Father Gabriel Richard, inscribed with the words that inspired the event's name.

"They have a large mural dedicated to Father Gabriel Richard with the quote 'we hope for better things, we will rise from the ashes' right on the mural and we thought OK lord, I'm not the brightest person, but I'm not stupid you want it here," Mallia said.

The Archdiocese of Detroit has never held a Eucharistic procession of this scale.

Weve never had one as part of the archdiocese, and we thought it would be a good way to connect people together as well as to the church as a whole," Mallia said.

Organizers expect around 5,000 Catholics to attend. Tickets are $50, and every dollar raised goes to local charities, including the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, the Pope Francis Center, Better Way Detroit, Mary's Mantle and Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan.

"Thats one of the beautiful things about this event is that your tickets going to somebody in need," Miller added.

Mallia said the timing of the event is no coincidence.

"It was the lord's perfect timing to do it," Mallia said.

Tickets are available for purchase until 6 p.m. Thursday. The Eucharistic procession will begin at Huntington Place at 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Michigan's cyclosporiasis outbreak has surged to more than 3,300 cases, up from roughly 700 cases the previous week, with 44 people hospitalized.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Local restaurant details precautions it's taking amid cyclosporiasis outbreak

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the updated case count Tuesday. On a CDC and FDA press call the same day, officials said four states at the epicenter of the outbreak Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky appear to share a common source of the parasite.

"We're seeing an unusually high number of Cyclosporiasis cases this season spread across more than 30 states with no deaths reported. The investigation into the source is ongoing and we are committed to updating the public as soon as we know more," Gwen Biggerstaff, deputy director of the CDC's Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, said. "Wash your hands and any fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating, cutting, or cooking."

State health officials say early indications show lettuce or salad greens may be a potential source of the outbreak, although no specific type of produce, grower, or supplier has yet been officially identified. State health officials and experts have recommended avoiding bagged lettuce and greens and thoroughly washing all produce.

Watch below: Our interview with MDHHS Chief Medical Executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian FULL INTERVIEW: Michigan's Chief Medical Executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, updates the cyclosporiasis situation

Dr. Anurag Malani, an epidemiologist at Trinity Health Ann Arbor, offered direct guidance for consumers.

"You'd really probably want, at this point in time, probably stay away from packaged salads, salad kits," Dr. Malani said. "If you can cook it, cook it. If you can peel it, peel it.'

Local restaurants are navigating the challenge. At Roma's Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant in Southgate, owner Elizabeth Christie has been especially proactive in part because of her background in healthcare.

"We are doing everything we can possible to keep in mind the health and safety of our staff, customers, our families," Christie said.

Christie is not only the owner of Roma's, but is also a registered dietitian and nurse practitioner. She said her medical background keeps food safety at the forefront of how she runs her business.

Being an NP, public safety is very important to me," Christie said.

Hear more from Elizabeth Christie in the video below Southgate restaurant owner details precautions taken during cyclosporiasis outbreak

Since the outbreak began, Christie has been reaching out to customers and vendors, asking questions and conducting research. She says her restaurant cuts its own vegetables and doesn't use bagged produce.

"We cut our own vegetables in-house as well, our lettuce, tomatoes, our cucumbers. I have a stringent protocol in regards to all of the managing of the cutting of the produce," Christie said.

The CDC says it expects to see increasing cases possibly through the end of August, which is when cyclosporiasis season typically ends.

"Cases have now been identified in 34 states, and we want to be clear, the true number of infections is almost certainly higher than what's reflected in these numbers, because many people with mild illness recover without seeking medical care and are never tested," Biggerstaf added on the CDC call.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A cold case that has haunted the Farmington Hills community for 25 years may finally be headed toward resolution after the man accused of killing Gordon Machek was extradited from Guatemala and arraigned Friday.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Farmington Hills cold case solved: Suspect extradited after 25 years on the run

Edgardo Luis Perez, 44, faces a murder charge after allegedly killing Machek in 2001 and stealing his identity. Perez was arraigned Friday morning in Farmington Hills after being extradited from Guatemala earlier this week.

Watch the press conference announcing the arrest and details of the case below: Police announce arrest in 2001 cold case homicide in Farmington Hills

Perez was wanted in connection with the 2001 murder of 56-year-old Farmington Hills resident Gordon Machek, and has reportedly been on the run since the murder occurred.

Perez was formally charged with felony murder by the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office in 2003, with a warrant issued by the United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, charging Perez with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Watch the arraignment in the video player below: Suspect in 2001 homicide in Farmington Hills arraigned after more than 2 decades

"This has been an active case for 25 years. We've had numerous groups of investigators who have received this case, worked this case, and retired only to pass it on to next generations of officers," said Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott. "This is something that's never left the minds of our investigators or our police department."

According to the FBI, Perez had initially befriended Machek at a health club and within a few weeks, had gained his trust and visited Machek's home.

It's alleged that the intent Perez had with befriending Machek was to steal his identity and money before fleeing the country, fearing he would be incarcerated for a prior probation violation.

"Our information is that Mr. Perez was fearful of being arrested on another charge related to a probation violation and that was the impetus between him wanting to attack Mr. [Machek], try to steal his identity, get resources and flee the country," Farmington Hills Police Department Chief John Piggott said.

Officials say the last known contact anyone had with Machek was on October 20, 2001, when Machek told his roommate he was going to spend the day with Perez.

The FBI says the day after Machek disappeared, Perez allegedly used his credit card to buy a one-way ticket to San Diego and to make purchases in Mexico.

Perez criminal history timeline:

2000 - faced one count of weapons possession or sale of a taser, two counts of assault and battery2000 - faced one count obstruction of justice, one count of assault and battery and was on probation for both cases when this homicide is alleged to have been committed2001 - face one count of impersonating a police officer, was arraigned and failed to appear after initial arraignment, pending out of 36th District CourtNovember 2001 - one count of financial transaction device, illegal use, pending in 47th District CourtOctober 2001 - set for probation violation, failed to appear and left the country

Perez was reported to be in possession of books with information on how to be a fugitive, how to do money transactions over the internet and how to change identity and create fake identifications and documents.

Eddie Perez is the devil himself. Hes evil," Machek's close friend and former neighbor Sue Marci said.

Marci attended the press conference on Friday and said the victim was a great friend to the family and her son. She described Machek as giving, kind and a creative soul that always helped others. She said his partner, Jim Johnson, had a massive stroke about a year after Machek's disappearance.

"He killed their dream of retirement. When I went in the house that day to check, his retirement gifts were still on his desk. Some of them still not opened. The bags and ribbons with the presents. He never got to see his dream," said Marci.

Machek's cousin, Lita Luce of Grand Rapids, says the family can finally have some peace.

"I never really gave up hope. I never did that," she said. "He had plans and that was taken away from him. So yes, I hope [Perez] gets his just due."

Watch the extended interview with Lita Luce in the video player below: Web extra: Cousin of victim speaks after arrest in Farmington Hills cold case

Perez was arraigned Friday at 11 a.m. before Judge Marla Parker at the 47th District Court.

A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf, and the judge denied Perez bond.

His probable cause conference is scheduled for July 17 at 9 a.m.

As another round of storms approaches the area, Farmington residents are bracing for more power outages and some are asking what can proactively be done to prevent the kind of widespread outages seen just last week.

Watch Ruta Ulciniate's video report: Farmington mayor pushes DTE, state regulators for better power outage solutions

Farmington Mayor Joe LaRussa says power outages in the city are nothing new, although there have been signs of progress. He says Farmington circuits have seen a 65% reduction in outage frequency and an 85% reduction in outage duration for impacted residents, up until this latest storm.

However, as an engineer himself, he has presented ideas directly to DTE and the Michigan Public Service Commission about how they can work together to find long-term solutions.

"The council got together and said we really need to communicate with the state regulators and we need to do it in a constructive way," LaRussa said. "It was important for the whole city to say to our state regulators, these are some things that can be done to make this better."

LaRussa sent a letter also signed by city council to both DTE and the Michigan Public Service Commission in 2022 after a massive storm caused widespread power outages. The letter laid out ways all parties could work together to prevent outages before they happen.

Resident Jules Carvey described the uncertainty many in the city feel.

"It's kind of a coin flip where it's like are we gonna lose power or are we not going to lose power?" Carvey said.

One idea LaRussa proposed a few years ago involved burying power lines when a housing development was being built in the city and the road needed to be redone. He says DTE agreed to do the project since the road was already open but at a cost.

"The first ask was a million dollars to underground probably 380 feet of utility line," LaRussa said.

Watch previous coverage this week when nearly 400,000 were without power after storms: Livonia residents without power for days after storm damages transformer

Under Michigan Code R 460.517, electric facilities are only required to pay for underground lines for the company's own convenience and benefit, or where required in heavily congested business districts. LaRussa believes that should change.

"I do think that there is a need for administrative review for existing rules and really giving local communities a little bit more of a seat at the table," LaRussa said.

September 2023 video report: Burying power lines: DTE testing out pilot program in some neighborhoods to help reduce outages Burying power lines: DTE testing out pilot program in some neighborhoods to help reduce outages

7 News Detroit reached out to DTE for an interview but was denied as crews prepared for the next round of storms.

Meanwhile, the Michigan Public Service Commission told 7 News Detroit it has taken steps to explore moving overhead power lines underground, including launching pilot programs in places like Ann Arbor. In a statement, the MPSC said:

We share in the frustration customers have about power outages, and we recognize theres more work to be done. We are focused relentlessly on improving reliability.

For resident Isabelle Ban, who lost power from Friday to Wednesday and lost hundreds of dollars worth of food, the pace of change is not fast enough.

"I would understand it's expensive but even starting slow by slow. Sometimes, that's what you gotta do," Ban said. "I'm even looking at all these wires in front of my house and it's just ridiculous."

Carvey echoed the urgency felt by many in the community.

"I think something needs to be happening," Carvey said.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A proposed 625-acre sand and gravel mine adjacent to Watkins Lake State Park in Jackson County has sparked concern among nearby residents, environmental advocates, and families who spend their summers in the area.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Proposed 625-acre gravel mine near Watkins Lake State Park draws concern

American Aggregates of Michigan, a Dearborn-based subsidiary of the Edward C. Levy Company, submitted an application to Norvell Township last November for the mine. The application is still in its early stages, and additional studies must be completed before the project can move forward, according to Norvell Township Supervisor Andrew Haystead.

DRONE VIDEO: Aerial view of site of proposed mine adjacent to Watkins Lake State Park DRONE VIDEO: Aerial view of Watkins Lake State Park

"Basically, they have to check all the boxes, if it's within our zoning ordinance and meets all the requirements as far as setbacks and hours of operation and everything like that," Haystead said.

Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve is an MDNR-designated waterfowl refuge that supports diverse wildlife and endangered species, including the bald eagle.

Sybil Kolon, who was born in Detroit and now lives just miles from the park, is among those raising concerns. She is involved with Irish Hills Concerned Citizens, a group opposing the project.

"This has been a tourist area, I mean, going back before 1900, and now it's being rediscovered cause people don't want to have to drive so far. It's so close to Detroit," Kolon said.

Silas Bialecki, a board member of Irish Hills Concerned Citizens, also weighed in on what the area means to those who live and visit there.

"What we have here is worth more than any money in the world, and it's worth more than any potential benefits that a mine could bring to the area," Bialecki said. This is to me one of the crown jewels of the area, and it cant be replaced, and once you lose it, its gone forever.

The proposed mine would also sit less than two miles from Camp Dainava, a Lithuanian children's summer camp in Washtenaw County. Dana Rugienius, former president of the board of directors at the camp, raised concerns about the camp's proximity to the site.

"The proposed site for the gravel mine is approximately two miles from here, and it's located southwest of us; winds generally travel southwest," Rugienius said. "The air quality, the water, the traffic, the noise, those are all questions of safety."

Camp Dainava has 70 years of history, meaning, and culture. Families from Metro Detroit, like the Kasputis family from Livonia, hope that legacy remains intact.

"That's all going to be littered up with trucks and traffic," Tadas Kasputis said about the trucks that are expected to drive through the area as material is mined.

This is home base for me; this is where I come to. I turned 40 years old this past winter, and I've been coming here for 40 years," he added.

Rick J. Kidd, Vice President of Edw. C. Levy Co. shared the following statement regarding the proposal:

Levy is proud to have responsibly operated sand and gravel mines in Michigan for more than 50 years and to have served communities across the country for more than a century. The proposed project reflects our longstanding commitment to being a good steward of the neighborhoods where we operate and to partnering with communities throughout the process. Sand and gravel are essential materials that help maintain and improve our roads while supporting local jobs and reducing costs for the state and counties. We are carefully reviewing data, conducting research, and listening to feedback alongside leading environmental experts in hydrology, hydrogeology, wetlands, and other disciplines to help inform a safe and environmentally responsible approach. Levy remains committed to complying with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations and permitting requirements. We will continue engaging with the community and sharing information as the project progresses.

Regarding the potential benefits that the mine could bring, Kidd said the following:

Natural aggregate mining provides the sand, gravel, and stone that Michigan relies on to build and maintain roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, homes, and other critical infrastructure used every day. In addition to supplying these essential materials, aggregate operations support local jobs, generate tax revenue for communities, strengthen nearby businesses, and help keep construction costs affordable by sourcing materials close to where they are needed. Whenever possible, our operations prioritize local businesses to help build, support, and maintain our facilities. Once mining is complete, many sites are reclaimed into valuable community assets, including lakes, parks, wildlife habitats, residential developments, agricultural land, and equestrian preserves, creating lasting benefits for future generations.

Kolon acknowledged the need for gravel but drew a firm line on location.

"The idea of putting a gravel mine immediately next to this park is just..." she said. "Not here."

Haystead said the township is working to balance the interests of residents with legal land use considerations.

"We're trying to do the best for the residents. We try to be as transparent with this whole process as possible," Haystead added.

The project still needs to be reviewed by the township attorney and go through the planning commission, with a final vote resting with the township board.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Novi police have concluded their investigation into the death and hospitalizations connected to the DaVita Dialysis Center in Novi, finding no evidence of suspicious activity, foul play or criminal conduct. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is now handling the matter as a public health investigation.

The Novi DaVita facility remains closed, as recommended by the Oakland County Health Department, while the state's investigation continues a process experts say could take months.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report below: DaVita Novi dialysis center closed amid state investigation

A 72-year-old woman from Livonia died after receiving treatment at the center last Friday. Multiple others were hospitalized, including one patient who remains in the intensive care unit.

Larry Greenberg, DO, a nephrologist who has treated patients with kidney disease for decades, said investigators will likely cast a wide net as they work to determine what happened.

"They would probably start with looking for problems at the level of the dialysis unit, then they'll move on to problems with individual supplies used, the water system," Greenberg said.

Greenberg described dialysis as an inherently complex process with many potential points of failure.

Watch our previous report about the death and illnesses below: Police investigating death, multiple illnesses after treatments at Novi dialysis center

"Dialysis really is a complex system. It relies on not only industries, suppliers, the city, the individual center," Greenberg added.

Alethea Walls, an advocate for those with kidney disease and the policy committee chair for Dialysis Patient Citizens, receives dialysis treatments at the Royal Oak DaVita location four times a week. She was receiving treatment during our interview and said her location has seen an influx of patients as those from the Novi center are redirected to other facilities.

"I definitely would like to know what happened. I'm extremely curious," Walls said. "It's a very concerning situation," she said.

DaVita is one of the largest U.S. providers of dialysis treatments, with over 2,600 centers nationwide. In 2018, the company was ordered to pay $383.5 million to the families of three patients who died after treatment. The company had no updates when reached Thursday except that the facility remains closed.

Patients and the community are hoping for clarity from the state and the company soon.

Several families who were impacted have retained Fieger Law, the firm said Thursday. Fieger Law released the following statement:

"Our hearts are with every patient and family impacted by these tragic events," said James Harrington, President and CEO of Fieger Law. "Individuals receiving dialysis place immense trust in their healthcare providers. Something went wrong and families deserve answers. Hopefully, DaVita Dialysis Center will cooperate and give us the truth of what happened."

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement will not convert a Romulus warehouse into a detention center, and the Department of Homeland Security now plans to sell the property, according to the Michigan Attorney General's Office.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: ICE drops plans for Romulus detention center, DHS moves to sell the property

DHS acquired the vacant warehouse in February for just over $34 million and announced plans to transform it into an ICE detention facility. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, in conjunction with the city of Romulus, filed a lawsuit in March against the federal government to block the conversion, arguing the facility was ill-equipped and too close to homes and schools.

This week, Nessel announced federal officials scrapped the plans.

"My office will keep this lawsuit active until we have a signed agreement committing that DHS and ICE will never use this Romulus warehouse as a detention center and will list the property for sale," Nessel said. "They cannot come into Michigan, break our laws, disrupt our communities and expect us to sit on our hands."

Previous coverage: Nessel, city of Romulus file lawsuit over proposed ICE detention facility Nessel, city of Romulus file lawsuit over proposed ICE detention facility

A DHS Spokesperson provided the following statement:

"From day one, DHS has remained singularly focused on removing the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from the United States and is always evaluating the best methods to do so. These heinous criminals, once arrested, should be removed at lightning speed, not housed on American soil at the taxpayers expense. DHS is moving swiftly to utilize EXISTING detention space with our state and county partners.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Michigan Republican Party Jim Runestad says he's disappointed by the decision.

"This is what the Democrats want. They want as many illegal immigrants into the nation as they possibly can get. And I understand their motives for doing that. Do I like this? No. Because there's so many people that need to be deported," he said.

Neighbors living near the warehouse say the decision was the right one, regardless of political affiliation.

Debra Singal, who has lived in the neighborhood for decades, expressed concern when the plans were first announced, saying a facility the size of a small prison next door would harm the community.

"This is not the place to do this type of thing," Singal said. Not here.

She said the news brought her relief.

"I feel like I can breathe," Singal said.

Previous coverage: ICE facility plan in Romulus sparks concern as officials tout economic impact ICE facility plan in Romulus sparks concern as officials tout economic impact

Another neighbor, Sabrina Jatta, is also relieved.

"I know there's a place for everything, but that wasn't the place," Jatta said. That building was not equipped for them to put people, humans in that building.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement:

The proposed ICE detention center in Romulus was widely opposed by the local communities... I commend the efforts of Attorney General Nessel, Romulus Mayor McCraight, and our state and federal lawmakers for putting a stop to this facility and ensuring Michiganders have a say in what happens in their own backyards.

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight released the following statement:

We want to thank DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin for listening to us and taking into consideration the issues that would have made this the wrong location for a detention facility. "Romulus will be in a better position to grow and continue to thrive with this decision. "The Citys position should not be confused with opposition to responsible enforcement of our countrys laws. Instead, the facilitys proximity to residential neighborhoods, schools, and wetlands made it the wrong location. Locating a facility like this in our community would have been an incredible burden on our already limited public safety resources and a violation of our zoning ordinance. "We thank Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel for assisting the City in taking this legal action. Attorney General Nessel worked side by side with Romulus from day one in our joint effort to resolve this matter. "And we thank the many citizens and leaders who stayed in regular contact with us during this time, including the Romulus City Council, State Representatives Miller, DeSana, and Wegela, State Senator Camilleri, U.S. Representatives Dingell and Talib, and U.S. Senator Slotkin. "While this situation is not completely resolved, we are optimistic that it will soon be complete."

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Rain Williams was shot in the head and shoulder by a Detroit police officer while attending a house party on June 1, 2024. She was not armed. Attorneys say the officer fired blindly into a crowd while responding to a shots fired call, striking Williams and at least one other bystander.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Detroit officer sued for shooting unarmed teen at block party Watch Kiara Hay's video report Detroit officer sued for shooting unarmed teen at block party, leaving her permanently disabled

Williams, who was 19 at the time, spent weeks in the hospital, where she underwent a craniotomy and suffered multiple strokes. She now suffers from a permanent brain injury and limited mobility on the left side of her body.

At an emotional press conference Wednesday, attorney Ven Johnson, alongside national civil rights attorney Ben Crump, announced the gross negligence lawsuit against the Detroit police officer at Wayne County Circuit Court.

"Nobody else is shooting. There are people everywhere in that backyard. She made a decision that's inexplicable to us to fire those shots, even though nobody was shooting," Crump said.

Williams' mother, Mosunmola Cobb, described the moment her daughter left home that day.

"She went out the house normal that day. She left all regular and she was supposed to come right back home," Cobb said.

The officer was placed on no-gun status in November of 2024 after evidence was revealed that two bystanders were in fact shot. Detroit police confirmed she returned to full duty in January and remains on the force.

"No criminal charges against this police officer. No meaningful job ramifications, She's back on the street," Johnson said at the press conference.

Watch our coverage from November 2024 below: Chief: 2 June block party shooting victims hit by shots from DPD officer

The Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, which would be responsible for charging the officer, declined to do so. In a statement, the office said in part:

"The totality of the evidence shows that the female officer* was acting in lawful self-defense, and in defense of others when she non-fatally shot victims in this case. Her actions were not reckless, and under the circumstances were warranted. The warrant request was denied because there was insufficient evidence that a prove a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Her actions were justified."

In November 2024, Detroit Police Chief Bettison addressed the incident, saying one of the officers encountered two armed assailants when arriving to the scene and that dozens of shots were fired prior to their arrival, and one individual was even killed. One individual at the scene was armed with a handgun and the other with an AR-style rifle and that "split-second decisions had to be made" while officers dealt with "armed assailants standing amongst innocent party-goers."

Williams' father said the family never received any outreach from police.

"We never even got contacted by the police to tell us anything. A sorry, a mistake or a is your child OK?" he said.

Cobb said the impact on her daughter has been lasting.

"My daughter will never be the same," Cobb said.

Detroit police said they do not comment on pending litigation. Williams continues her recovery with her family.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Gage Pierce, 25, appeared before a Livonia judge Friday for the first time since being charged in connection with a quadruple homicide that shook the community this week.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's video report: Gage Pierce arraigned in Livonia quadruple homicide

Pierce faces four counts of first-degree murder and four counts of felony firearm. His bond was denied.

Watch the full arraignment below: Livonia man on murder charges in deadly quadruple shooting of mom, dad, brother & brother's girlfriend

During the arraignment, Pierce attempted to speak on his own behalf.

"Will I stand up and speak?"

His attorney quickly shut that down. Aside from that, Pierce stood mute as his charges were read aloud.

Prosecutors say Pierce used a semiautomatic rifle to shoot and kill his mother, Holly Kimball; his father, Sterling Pierce; his brother, Tanner Pierce; and Tanner's girlfriend, Nevaeh Finch, at the family home Tuesday.

Related story below: Family of Livonia shooting victim Nevaeh Finch describe her as selfless 'The kindest soul': Family of Livonia shooting victim Nevaeh Finch describe her as selfless

The home has since become a memorial. Family members gathered there Friday to observe what would have been Tanner's 23rd birthday.

Tanner's uncle made sure to wish his beloved nephew a happy birthday Friday at the family home.

"You'll never be forgotten. You achieved so much at such a young age...you were perfect. Love you, man. Happy birthday," he said through tears.

We spoke with Nevaeh's mother, Shelly, over the phone. She watched the arraignment in heartbreak while making funeral arrangements for her daughter. Nevaeh's birthday would have been July 9.

"She's just a she's a good kid. Right now I have to try to, you know, pick her last outfit she's ever gonna wear," Shelly said over the phone.

At Mulligan's Pub & Grub in Farmington Hills, owner Robert Mckiddie is preparing for a fundraiser for the family this Saturday at 2 p.m. Mckiddie was a friend of Sterling's for nearly two decades and says Sterling used to frequent the pub.

"He's always called me his brother every time we parted ways...and I loved him like a brother," Mckiddie said.

The event is open to the public. A $20 donation at the door will go directly toward funeral costs for Sterling, Holly, and Tanner. The event will also serve as a place for the community to gather, grieve, and share stories.

"My heart goes out to them. It really does. The community is hurting over this. All the money in the world will not make a difference to anybody. But it might help them get through what they have to get through. That's a lot they have to deal with," Mckiddie added.

Mulligan's Pub & Grub is located at 27406 W. 8 Mile Road in Farmington Hills. Those unable to attend can donate items or gift cards for raffle and auction baskets or make an additional monetary donation in person.

Pierce is expected back in court June 25.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.