Investigators are continuing to work and determine the motive behind a deadly shooting and arson at a Grand Blanc Township church that claimed the lives of four innocent people and the shooter.

John Bond, a Navy veteran and loving husband, father and grandfather, was identified by family as one of the victims who was shot and killed while attending Sunday service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Man killed in Grand Blanc Township church shooting was 'well known and loved'

"He was a well known and loved member of his family and active in his community. John was a Navy veteran serving for 9 years, a lover of golf and trains and always loved spending time with his family and grandkids," read a GoFundMe page created for Bond's family.

The suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Sanford, not only opened fire but also set the church on fire, creating additional dangers for those inside and challenges for investigators. Several other people were hurt and hospitalized.

"Anybody who has been through active shooter training, we teach to run hide barricade. But the act of fire changed everything. When you're teaching someone and a sympathetic response is to go barricade, that's the last thing you want to do when there's a fire," Genesee County Sheriff Christopher R Swanson said.

Swanson grew up in the area and knows the community personally.

"I grew up right down the road on the 8000 block of McCandlish Road. I know this community, I know the people," Swanson said.

The FBI is leading the investigation into what they describe as an act of targeted violence on the church. Investigators have interviewed more than 100 witnesses and are working with their Quantico labs division to analyze evidence from the scene.

Related video: Police say all accounted for after deadly church attack 'This was an evil act.' Police say all accounted for after deadly church attack

Inside the truck the suspect drove into the church, law enforcement found four improvised explosive devices, which were described as "fairly basic."

The fire has created additional challenges for investigators as they comb through the wreckage while working to determine a motive.

With the community on high alert, Swanson has added 31 marked patrol cars to ensure schools, churches and other gathering places are protected.

Related video: Council candidate recalls 'very dark' conversation with Grand Blanc Twp. church shooter Council candidate recalls 'very dark' conversation with Grand Blanc Twp. church shooter

The sheriff's office plans to host a security, safety and tactical briefing this week for any place of worship that wants to attend.

"People want to know when they gather, there's things they have to do. Law enforcement can't do it by themselves. So to create that outside perimeter, the inside perimeter, communications, we're gonna cover those things and I think that's going to help people," Swanson said.

The family of Bond has launched a fundraiser to help with memorial expenses. The Grand Blanc Township Police Department has also established a victim compassion fund through a local credit union.

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 controversial concrete crushing facility in Waterford Township has lost its special operating permit after township officials alleged the site failed to meet requirements, but neighbors say the facility continues operating despite the revocation order.

The decision comes after more than a year of complaints from residents who say Bell Site Development poses a health risk to families and children at nearby Kettering High School.

Watch Brett Kast's and Ryan Marshall's video report below: Waterford concrete crusher loses permit, but neighbors say it continues operating Waterford concrete crusher loses permit, but neighbors say it continues operating

After months of complaints and pent-up anger, residents in Waterford Township broke out in cheers Tuesday night following a unanimous vote by the planning commission to revoke the special permit of Bell Site Development.

The commission revoked the permit after allegations that the concrete crushing facility violated the conditions required to operate.

"It was very exciting to see them (board) actually taking more of our side," said Jennifer Teal, who lives directly next to the facility.

Teal and many of her neighbors have been fighting the facility for years, arguing the site is a nuisance and health risk.

"The emissions from this site are not minor nuisances; they are real, toxic, persistent and unacceptable," said Wes Evans, who also lives near the facility.

Residents thought Tuesday night's decision was a temporary victory but less than 24 hours later, they say they heard noises again coming from the site.

"As far as I know, that was supposed to be a full work stoppage and today, he's working," Teal said.

Teal filmed video where loud noises can be heard coming from the facility. It's unclear exactly what the noise is but when asked if they were still operating on Wednesday, the owner declined to comment.

"Anger, anger. Really that's first and foremost, anger," Teal said when asked about her reaction to the continued noise.

Previous coverage: Waterford Township residents sound off about concrete crusher at trustee meeting Waterford Township residents sound off about concrete crusher at trustee meeting

Township Supervisor Anthony Bartolotta says they were notified Wednesday morning that the site was allegedly operating and quickly contacted their township prosecutor to see what can be done.

"For them to be operating today, they should be shut down automatically," Bartolotta said.

"We were hoping they would be good neighbors. Obviously, they're not, so away we go to court and see what happens," Bartolotta continued. "It upsets me that owners, certain owners, think the rules don't apply to them and they do.

During Tuesday's meeting, an attorney alongside the owner argued with the commission, saying the only violations were site changes to improve the facility. This came after commissioners listed numerous instances where the site allegedly violated rules.

"You have made a number of statements now that are blatantly false," the attorney said during the meeting.

Previous report: Waterford residents concerned over noise, pollution from concrete crushing company Waterford Township neighbors concerned over concrete crushing company

The company returns to the planning commission next month for another hearing, and residents hope it stays quiet and clean until then.

"I feel that he thinks he can do whatever he wants and I feel he thinks there isn't any repercussions for his actions," Teal said.

"They're going to have to suffer the consequences and it's a shame. It really is a shame," Bartolotta 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.

An Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon over the weekend has led to mourning in metro Detroit, with the victims having direct ties to Dearborn.

Chadi Charara and three of his children 10-year-old Celine Charara and 18-month-old twins Hadi and Cylan were killed when their car was hit by an Israeli drone strike. The Israeli government confirmed the strike, saying it was targeting a nearby Hezbollah operative but acknowledged that innocent civilians were killed.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Dearborn family mourns loss of relatives killed in Israeli drone strike in Lebanon

The victims were not U.S. citizens but were in the process of obtaining visas to come to the U.S., according to family members. A 13-year-old sibling remains on life support, while the children's mother survived the attack.

"You know, every day you open the news, you see another family massacred till one day, you wake up and it's your own it hits different," said Mohamed Charara, a cousin of the victims.

Mohamed Charara had visited the family in Lebanon less than a week before the deadly strike. As he scrolled through photos on his iPhone, he showed images that were meant to bring joy but now bring heartache.

"This is me giving Hadi a gift, same gift they found his body with," Mohamed Charara said.

The Israeli military said they are reviewing the attack.

"The children were found dead on impact, completely maimed, their father just the same," said Shelia Charara, an aunt and sister-in-law of the victims. "We have an entire family massacred, leaving us heartbroken forever."

Shelia Charara described the close bond between the families, saying they spent summers together every year and their children were raised together.

"We spent our summers with them every year, our children are raised with his children. We are forever shaken. This whole community is shaken," Shelia Charara said.

Hundreds attended two days of mourning services in Dearborn, where the majority of the Charara family lives. Family members remembered Chadi Charara as a devoted father whose priority was raising his children.

"He made it clear to me his number 1 priority was raising his family, making sure his kids were fed and educated," Mohamed Charara said.

"I've known him for 27 years," Shelia Charara added. "This is the purest of gentlemen, purest of heart. Most hard working, honest goodhearted, like all the civilians in Lebanon."

The strike occurred despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel reached in November. The Charara family is calling on all the governments involved to bring the bloodshed to an end.

"People in this community are at a loss, but one thing we know is our voices put together will get justice. They're gone, but there needs to be justice, there needs to be accountability," Shelia Charara said. Are the lives and bloodshed of innocent civilians, whether they were soon-to-be U.S. citizens, Lebanese citizens, of no value? These are children.

The mourning services lasted two hours each day, reflecting the deep impact the tragedy has had on Dearborn's Lebanese American community.

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 man police say was fleeing a shooting scene ended up crashing into an Ypsilanti building, igniting a fire that left damage.

The incident was caught on camera and the owners of the building say its in the process of becoming an ice cream shop.

Watch Brett Kast's and Brittany Toolis' video reports below: Car crashes into Ypsilanti building, owners say it's the 4th time in 3 years Car crashes into Ypsilanti building, owners say it's the 4th time in 3 years

The crash happened after 3 a.m. Sunday. Video shows the suspect trying to flee the scene on foot before he was surrounded and arrested in the parking lot.

See surveillance video of the crash below: Video: Car crashes into Ypsilanti business after driver allegedly fled shooting

Nicolas Arreola is one of the owners of the building, along with his brother Reyes Arreola. The two also own Dos Hermanos Market and Grill directly next door.

The two had no idea about the hole in their building until going through surveillance footage and seeing it for themselves.

I went through the security cameras and I see everything on the videos, Reyes Arreola said.

When you saw what happened on the video, how surprised were you?" I asked Reyes Arreola.

"Really surprised," he answered. "I mean, surprised, mad, sad, everything at the same time.

He was surprised to an extent because this is far from the first time this has happened. In fact, it's the fourth time in less than three years.

Video taken just last month shows another driver hopping the curb, hitting the front corner of the building. Another video from August 2024 shows a car hopping the curb, slamming into the guardposts without hitting a building. In 2023, a car traveled the same route, plowing into Dos Hermanos market, as seen from cameras inside the store.

This curve, nobody can get it. They're just going straight, Nicolas Arreola. "They just keep straight right here. I think they are just drunk or sleeping or something.

The building that was hit Sunday was under construction to become an ice cream store, serving Mexican-style ice cream and snacks. It is owned by the brothers and will be operated by Nicolas Arreola's son. The project now has to be delayed due to the crash.

We thought it would open in at least in a month, but with this thing, I don't know, Nicolas Arreola said.

As the brothers fix the building, they are looking to put a concrete wall at the edge of the parking lot, thankful this time no one got hurt.

Imagine if this happen during the day or a workday, it could kill someone or more than one person, Reyes Arreola said.

Police say the crash from Sunday is still under investigation, but charges have been submitted against the suspect.

Wayne State University's Board of Governors appointed a new interim president during a brief special meeting Wednesday, just hours after President Kimberly Andrews Espy's sudden resignation, citing personal reasons, was officially announced.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Wayne State University president resigns amid faculty tensions, board names interim leader

Richard Bierschbach, current dean of the law school, was named the university's interim president following Espy's departure as the school's 13th president.

"I know it seems like a challenging time. It's a challenging time in all of higher education, but it's also a great time for us," Bierschbach said.

Serving this institution has been an honor, and I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished togetherfrom advancing student success and expanding research innovation to strengthening the community through collaboration, Espy said in a statement. With the remarkable students who inspired me every day, this decision was not a simple one, and I look forward to spending more time with my family. I am confident in the universitys continued momentum and further success for the future.

Faculty cite ongoing tensions

The resignation, while surprising to some, was not entirely unexpected by faculty members who described mounting tensions in recent months.

"I don't think it came out of nowhere. I think there was a lot of dissatisfaction with the previous president," said Jennifer Sheridan Moss, president of the Wayne Academic Union, which represents faculty.

Watch our previous report when Espy's resignation was announced: Leadership shakeups at Wayne State University

Moss criticized Espy's communication style and campus presence.

"The previous president was not communicative. We got very robotic responses from her if we got a response at all. She wasn't seen around campus," Moss said.

Faculty and students pointed to several contentious issues during Espy's tenure, including the handling of a student encampment protesting the war in Gaza, which resulted in a lawsuit against the school.

Related coverage: Protesters released from custody after police raid encampment at Wayne State 12 arrested after police raid pro-Palestinian encampment at Wayne State University

"We thought she was turning the campus into a police state essentially after the Palestinian encampment, after that was broken up," Moss said.

"I think that it was a culmination of events that led up to this point, WSU senior Nuzmeya Abdrabboh said. "The ongoing lawsuit that Wayne State is experiencing against their students for violating their rights to free speech, taking down the encampment and arresting 12 students.

Medical school controversy adds to tensions

Students also expressed disappointment over Espy's handling of the medical school dean, who was recently placed on leave.

Medical student Safia Hanaiya Yusef described the dean's situation as particularly troubling.

"He was willing to go above and beyond for his students, so when he was placed on leave, we were all shocked to say the least," Yusef said. We want the university leadership to be held accountable for the way they handle everything number 1, and number 2, we would like for a fair and impartial review and should know substantiated allegations exist (against the dean).

Search for permanent replacement begins

Board Chair Shirley Stancato announced that the board has accepted Espy's resignation and will launch a broader search for a permanent president.

Despite the leadership upheaval, many remain hopeful optimistic about the university's future.

"I think Wayne State is such an important iconic institution in this city, in this community. All I hope is we continue to grow," said Sheryl Kubiak, dean of the School of Social Work. I've worked with Rick Bierschbach for seven years and he's a wonderful partner, great collaborator, incredibly smart and hes a builder.

The Board of Governors meeting lasted less than 10 minutes, with the transition taking effect immediately as the university moves forward just weeks into the fall semester.

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.

Bloomfield Township police are cracking down on drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, issuing eight citations in just the first three weeks of the new school year.

The violations were captured on video by cameras mounted on a school bus, showing multiple vehicles driving past the bus with the stop arms extended and red lights flashing. Each violation carries a $500 fine that can be mailed directly to the vehicle owner.

Watch Jolie Sherman's video report below: Bloomfield Township police crack down on school bus passing violations

"Today, we're three weeks into school and we posted a video that we saw that had several violators blowing right past that school bus stop arm," Sgt. Nick Soley with the Bloomfield Township Police Department said.

That most recent incident occurred on Franklin Road near Maple Road on Sept. 4, where video footage shows several cars ignoring a stopped school bus.

Watch video of the incident shared from police below: Web extra: Police release video of cars illegally passing stopped school bus in Bloomfield Township

"It unfortunately is common. It's kind of people aren't paying attention, one car goes, the next car goes and that's just kind of the way that it happens," Soley said.

Last year, Bloomfield Township police issued 62 tickets for similar violations. In March, video captured two students who nearly got hit by a passing vehicle.

WATCH: Video shows close call at bus stop in Bloomfield Township WATCH: Video shows close call at bus stop in Bloomfield Township

Thanks to a 2021 Michigan law, police can review footage from bus-mounted cameras that capture both the violation and license plate numbers, allowing them to mail citations directly to vehicle owners after an officer review.

"There's a lot more out there. We're definitely not catching all of them, but we're getting as many as we can," Soley said.

According to Michigan law, when a school bus displays its stop sign with red flashing lights, drivers must stop at least 20 feet away. This requirement applies to all traffic on both sides of the road, unless there's a divided highway.

"Those school buses are going to flash amber lights first. Those amber lights are a warning, hey this school bus is slowing down, its preparing to stop," Soley explained. "When the red lights come on and the arms go out, you can no longer pass.

Parents in the area expressed support for the enforcement efforts after viewing the violation footage.

"It seems very small and innocent, but you're talking about the lives and safety of our school kids," Bill O'Connor said. "Having the cameras sounds like a great idea and giving away $500 tickets sounds maybe light."

"It's really, really sad. I think children are at so much risk in their everyday lives that if we can make it a little bit safer for them to get off the bus, we should obey the laws," Sharon Myers said.

This school year, other districts including Detroit are adding cameras to their buses as police across the region emphasize that violations involving the safety of children come with serious consequences.

Related video: Detroit school buses get new cameras to catch drivers who don't stop for kids Detroit school buses get new cameras to catch drivers who don't stop for kids

"We want to start to get these messages out early. This isn't something we want to deal with the entire school year," Soley 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.

Wayne Disposal, a hazardous waste facility in Belleville, has faced growing public scrutiny over the last few years. Residents successfully rallied to stop leftover radioactive waste from a New York Manhattan Project site, which is currently being held up in court.

Watch Brett's story in the video player below: A look at Wayne Disposal: 7 News Detroit takes tour of controversial landfill

Now, residents are turning their sights to an application from Wayne Disposal, which is looking to grow their landfill with a vertical expansion.

Wayne Disposal in Belleville is roughly 600 acres, and about a third of that is an active hazardous waste landfill. We took a tour of the facility to see what protections are in place.

From the moment trucks carrying hazardous waste roll into Wayne Disposal, testing begins, a white sensor tests for radiation levels while workers sample the material and test it in their on-site lab, making sure its acceptable.

Most of the material that comes in is contaminated soil," said Sylwia Scott, area environmental compliance manager with Republic Services.

Scott says the facility accepts whats called low activity radioactive waste, which is considered less harmful than nuclear and low-level radioactive waste both of which, she says, the site does not accept.

"Being that were in an industrial community, a lot of industrial waste includes solids that are from wastewater treatment systems, air pollution control equipment, said Scott.

According to Scott, the majority of waste comes from out of state and is primarily a bi-product of manufacturing, which is why theyre located in a heavy manufacturing area.

"As a society, we're really pressing to bring industry back to the United States and build more, and thats going to make these types of assets even more critical to those operations, said Bill Carr, general manager of Wayne Disposal.

Carr says the next step for arriving trucks is to head to the landfill, where the waste is first transferred to containers to avoid cross-contamination.

The main purpose of that transfer spot is to make sure we don't have traffic going into a landfill, said Carr.

Carr says the landfill has multiple layers of protection, and the facility has over 100 monitoring points checking the air, along with groundwater. He says all water on property, whether it touches the landfill or not, is captured and treated, before it leaves.

"I can tell you that all groundwater sampling that we've done, we've proven time and time again that theres no issues. This landfill is not leaking, people can rest assured of that," he said.

Related Story: Lawmakers oppose more hazardous waste dumping in Wayne County 'We have had enough.' Lawmakers oppose more hazardous waste dumping in Wayne County

Jeneen Rippey is speaking on behalf of her organization, Michigan Against Atomic Waste, and the roughly 1,200 local residents who have joined.

That data is not readily available to the public, and it's like the fox watching the henhouse. Yes, the EGLE does have some oversight, but I have concerns," said Rippey.

The group has organized multiple rallies, first opposing the shipment of leftover waste from a Manhattan Project site in New York State to now opposing a vertical expansion that Wayne Disposal is asking for.

"The vertical expansion will go to 225 feet, and it will be a visible landmark in our community, impacting home values and businesses," said Rippey.

Carr showed us where the expansion would happen in a gap between two existing mounds.

We have the opportunity to fill this gap, not expand the existing footprint of the landfill and maximize the space we have available to our customer base, said Carr.

Rippey lives on nearby Belleville Lake, and has concerns over the sites impact on local waterways. While the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy will hold another public hearing on the expansion, many residents continue to push for less hazardous waste, and Wayne Disposal hopes to convince them, its safe.

Leak detention, groundwater monitoring, radon monitoring, perimeter air monitoring, all of it is showing theres no exposure," said Scott.

Rippey says, at a very minimum, I believe we need to have independent third-party testing to protect our community, to ensure everyone feels safe.

EGLE will be holding that public meeting on September 18.

Where Your Voice Matters

The Detroit Lions are back home and Greektown businesses are counting on loyal fans to navigate construction barriers for Sunday's season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Greektown, one of downtown Detroit's entertainment hot spots, remains largely under construction with most of Monroe Street closed until late 2026. But behind the barricades and narrow sidewalks, small business owners are gearing up for another Lions season with optimism.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Greektown businesses prepare for Detroit Lions season amid construction

"Our street may be closed down, but our sidewalks and doors are always open," Yanni Dionisopoulos said.

Dionisopoulos co-owns multiple Greektown businesses, including the new country bar Who Loves Ya Baby. He says the ongoing construction has been particularly challenging in recent weeks.

"The last few weeks, it's been a lot more noticeable. Thank God the Lions are back in town," Dionisopoulos said.

For downtown businesses, game days are crucial revenue drivers. Dionisopoulos says Lions home games often bring in 10 times the business of a normal Sunday.

"A lot, and it's deeply needed and it helps with our business, our staff," Dionisopoulos said.

Previous report: 'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction 'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction

The construction project aims to create a new pedestrian-friendly streetscape, but for now, the work has confined foot traffic to narrow sidewalks and alleys. Just in time for this weekend's game, Monroe Street reopened from St. Antoine Street to Chrysler Drive.

Some fans are adapting to the changes. Emily Gray, visiting from Ann Arbor, appreciated the navigation help.

"They had nice signs and a little map, so you could find where you're going," Gray said.

Lions fan Jeff Handy acknowledges the construction's impact but remains committed to supporting local businesses.

"It's still great, but it's impacting," Handy said.

"It's awesome to be so close to the stadium. Maybe we'll go to the game but if not, we'll be watching the game from around here supporting local business."

Meanwhile, the Lions and Rocket Mortgage held a kickoff block party in southwest Detroit, building citywide excitement for the new season.

"It's going to be really great, man. A lot of energy downtown, so we expect to have a great turnout and hopefully a great game," Lions fan Ernest Love said.

As the Lions rely on their loyal fanbase for success, Greektown businesses are banking on that same loyalty to overcome construction challenges.

Previous report: Greektown wants you to know they're open for business despite construction Greektown wants you to know they're open for business despite construction

"As we all know, we have a very loyal fan base for the Lions as we do for Greektown, and I'm very confident that will not get in the way," Dionisopoulos said.

The game kicks off at 1 p.m. Sunday.

"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 47-year-old man who escaped from police custody at Garden City Hospital last week now faces an additional charge of escaping from lawful custody, on top of charges related to a fatal motorcycle crash that killed 44-year-old Nicholas Cogswell.

Antonio Hollingsworth was driving without a valid license when he caused the crash that killed Cogswell, according to the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Family mourns father killed in Inkster crash, man who escaped hospital charged

Just before 1 p.m. on Sept. 2, Cogswell was riding his motorcycle north on Inkster Road near Avondale Street when a car allegedly driven by Hollingsworth pulled out of a liquor store parking lot and hit him. Cogswell was severely injured and died in the hospital days later.

"All of his kids were there by his bedside holding his hand until he was gone, and I still can't believe he's gone," said Correana Turek-Cogswell, the victim's daughter.

Hear more from Correana Turek-Cogswell in the video player below: Web extra: Daughter of man killed in crash reflects on his life

Turek-Cogswell described her father as someone who loved family, friends and his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

"He was always my first call and he was the first call for a lot of people... Hed give you the shirt of his back and the food off his plate," Turek-Cogswell said. His energy was just there. Everyone knew when he was around, his presence was enough.

While Cogswell's family was by his side at the hospital, Inkster police had taken Hollingsworth to Garden City Hospital, where he managed to escape from his handcuffs. Police conducted a roughly five-hour manhunt before finding and arresting him just a few blocks away.

"I was terrified because we only live, our home is only a couple blocks from Garden City Hospital and I made a post like we need to find him now," Turek-Cogswell said.

Watch our previous report when Antonio Hollingsworth escaped police custody below: 'My instincts kicked in': Man recognizes Garden City hospital escapee, calls 911

At the time of the crash, police say Hollingsworth was absconding parole for an armed robbery conviction and didn't have a valid license. He also was allegedly in possession of a controlled substance. The attempted escape adds another charge as Cogswell's family continues to mourn.

My dad was my biggest provider, my comfort, my safety net and he was helping me navigate life, Turek-Cogswell said.

Cogswell's family has launched a GoFundMe to help with added expenses. They urge others to watch for motorcycles, wear helmets and, above all, be kind to others.

"Let's just keep his memory alive, let's keep his smile alive and everyone be safe," Turek-Cogswell said.

Hollingsworth was arraigned on Monday and given a $100,000 bond with 10%. He's due back in court on Sept. 17.

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.

Oakland County sheriff's deputies are stepping up patrols at four dangerous intersections in Pontiac after a surge in fatal pedestrian crashes this year.

The targeted hotspots include Huron and Saginaw, Baldwin and Montcalm, Walton and Perry, and Auburn and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Oakland County deputies increase patrols at Pontiac traffic hotspots after fatal crashes

This year, deputies have responded to more fatal pedestrian crashes in Pontiac than in the last two years combined, prompting Sheriff Michael Bouchard to announce increased enforcement efforts.

"We're definitely saturating the areas that are problems," said Deputy Evan Rothe of the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.

Recent tragedies prompt action

The enforcement comes after several devastating crashes, including one at Joslyn and Montcalm where 37-year-old Deniquah Reed and her two sons, ages 6 and 4, were killed while stopped at a red light one week ago.

Previous report: Community mourns loss of mother, 2 kids killed in Pontiac Community mourns loss of mother and two kids killed in Pontiac crash

"People started leaving balloons, animals the very next day," said Rothe, who responded to that crash.

Rothe said the memorial marking the tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of traffic enforcement.

"It's hard. You see their faces," Rothe said. "We're out here. We want to prevent things like this from happening."

Speed and crosswalk violations targeted

Deputies are focusing on a few main violations: speeding, running stop signs, reckless driving and pedestrians not using crosswalks properly.

"Speeding is a contributing factor in a third of all fatal crashes, so it's definitely something we're looking for," Rothe said. "A lot of people just don't use the crosswalks unfortunately, and that's how a lot of accidents occur."

Previous report: 'It's scary': Residents concerned after seventh hit-and-run crash in Pontiac this year 'It's scary': Residents concerned after seventh hit-and-run crash in Pontiac this year

There have been far too many serious pedestrian accidents in Pontiac, Bouchard said. These saturation patrols are intended to reduce the behavior that has caused them. For the pedestrians, we are not looking to write formal tickets but to change street crossing habits. For those that are driving recklessly, carelessly and dangerously, they will be receiving citations.

Infrastructure improvements made

On Baldwin near Virginia, an area where two fatal pedestrian crashes have occurred since July, the city recently added a painted crosswalk and stop signs to create an all-way stop intersection.

"They would just blow right past you. They didn't care," said Timothy Crow, a resident who frequently uses the bus stop in the area.

Crow said he feels safer with the new traffic controls.

"Hopefully with the stop sign right now, there won't be any fatalities," Crow said.

Unsolved case still under investigation

One of the July fatalities remains unsolved. Frank Tyson-Griffin, 43, was killed in a hit-and-run while riding his bike on July 3.

His sister, Regina Griffin, said she's pleased to see safety improvements being made.

"I'm happy to see changes. I'm happy they didn't just sweep it under the rug," Griffin said. "I've rode down Baldwin myself. I've seen the pedestrian walk and the stop signs and it's good they're trying to save future lives."

Watch our previous report about two fatal hit-and-runs, including the one involving, Frank Tyson-Griffin below: 2 killed in separate hit-and-runs on same Pontiac road prompts changes, investigation

Deputies will continue monitoring the four hotspots, conducting traffic stops for violations and working to prevent future tragedies.

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.

Detroit city leaders are exploring a new revenue stream that could generate up to $47 million annually through an admission tax on concerts and sporting events, according to a study released Wednesday.

The tax would require action from the Michigan Legislature, Detroit City Council and a vote from Detroit residents before implementation. Currently, 34 other states allow similar local admission taxes.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Detroit could raise up to $47M with new tax on concerts and sporting events, report says

The Citizens Research Council of Michigan study shows a 3% tax could bring in roughly $14.1 million per year, while a 10% tax could generate $46.9 million annually for the city.

"Not surprised, but encouraged," Detroit City Councilmember Gabriella Santiago-Romero said.

Santiago-Romero is among the city leaders supporting the possibility of an admission tax. Detroit City Council recently commissioned the study to examine how other similarly sized cities handle this type of taxation.

Eric Lupher, president of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, conducted the research examining comparable cities across the nation like Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Chicago, Columbus and more.

"In the big picture of Detroit's $1 billion-plus budget, this ($46.9 million) is pretty insignificant, but if it can be done to help public safety or public property tax relief, then it could be very helpful," Lupher said.

Read the research study below:

Research study on admission tax revenue in Detroit by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit

The study found that admission taxes don't typically change consumer behavior in other markets.

"Looking at other cities, it doesn't seem people change behaviors because of these taxes," Lupher said.

I spoke with Detroit Tigers fans outside Comerica Park and most expressed support for the proposed tax. Jim Wright, a Tigers fan from Harrison Township, said the tax wouldn't prevent him from attending games.

"If they put a small tax on that as a city surcharge kind of thing, if it would help people, I don't think there's anything wrong with that," Wright said. I think its a great idea, but thats me.

Johnathan Randle, a Tigers fan from Detroit, also supports the idea.

"It's been a great privilege to come to Tigers games, Lions games, Randle said. "I think everyone has to have a shared investment into the city because you have everyone coming from Oakland, Macomb, various counties and surrounding areas.

Joe Clifford, who traveled from Ludington to attend Wednesday's Tigers game, said the tax wouldn't significantly impact fans.

"I come down here a few times a year. I don't think it's really going to hurt anybody," Clifford said. Taxes are taxes, nobody likes them, but how do we figure it out?

The study outlined several potential uses for the revenue, including creating a fund to attract more events, helping pay for city services or reducing Detroit property taxes by as much as 25%.

"Detroit has some of the highest property tax rates in the nation, so anything that can be done to lower that rate would be important," Lupher said. "Maybe about a quarter of what people pay for city taxes could be alleviated because of this.

Santiago-Romero emphasized the potential benefits for city services and infrastructure.

"We see what it can do, we can invest it into our services in the city to make it more clean, more safe, more welcoming for everyone," Santiago-Romero said. "A lot of us want to make sure that we have city services that work, making sure we have our garbage being picked up on time, that we have the streetlights where they need to be, that our viaducts are lit.

While Santiago-Romero says most of city council supports the proposal, implementation requires the Michigan Legislature to change state law allowing this form of local taxation.

"Please legislators, please help give us local control, so we're able to do things like this," Santiago-Romero said. "It's not about just Detroit, but I think more cities should be asking for this kind of power and control, so we can have taxes like these."

The Citizens Research Council plans to conduct a follow-up study examining what a sales tax on these events could mean for the state.

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 Rochester Hills man has been charged with allegedly using Instagram to meet a 15-year-old to engage in sexual activity.

Valor Harrison, 22, was arraigned on Thursday on charges including third-degree criminal sexual conduct and accosting a child for immoral purposes.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Rochester Hills man charged for allegedly using Instagram to meet 15-year-old

The investigation dates back to July, when investigators say Harrison contacted the 15-year-old on Instagram and then met the teen. The teen reported the incident to her parents, who reported it to police.

Detectives from Northville Township and Canton Township police took Harrison into custody on Tuesday.

"Unfortunately, this a trend we're seeing here in Michigan and across the country, said Lt. Patrick Reinke with the Northville Township Police Department. "As social media is becoming more popular over the years, its been an easy space for people to reach out to children and victimize them and exploit them in a variety of different ways.

Police say that Harrison has had previous run-ins with law enforcement. According to The State News, Harrison pleaded no contest to criminal sexual conduct in January after messaging a Michigan State University student online, following her to her dorm and assaulting her.

According to The State News, Harrison reportedly talked openly about the tactics, saying he hoped his nonstop messaging on social media to students and prowling the campus would help him meet girls. The incident reportedly happened in December 2023 and Harrison was just sentenced in April to one day in jail and 5 years probation, according to court records.

Given the crime and Harrison's history, police say there could be additional victims.

"Our primary concern with crimes of this nature is that there are additional victims," Reinke said. "So, we really want to get his face out there, encourage anyone else who may have been a victim or may have had any kind of contact with him to reach out to us."

Parent Chris McKenna is founder of the Michigan-based group Protect Young Eyes. He says delaying social media use for kids is the best option, but if parents opt to allow it, staying involved is critical.

"That foundation is relationship, building digital trust, having frequent conversations, dripping conversations in all of the time, letting them know they can always land safely and softly with you no matter what happens, that theres never a bad time, McKenna said. If we are going to drop our teens into these environments, it's a requirement these are the things we do as a parent.

Most important thing parents can do is just talk to your kids about healthy relationships, talk to them about safety on social media and on the internet, Reinke said. "Just pay attention to your kids. If you notice anything different, if anything seems off, ask questions and look into that and try to figure out what's going on. Thats your best line of defense.

A 40-year-old Dearborn man is fighting for his life and is in critical condition after police say he was intentionally run over while crossing Michigan Avenue.

Watch Brett Kast's video report: Driver charged after police say he purposefully ran over man in Dearborn

Haidar Al Fadawi was crossing the street when surveillance video shows a vehicle speed up, cross over the center turn lane, and hit him.

See surveillance video showing the moments leading up to the attack here: Web extra: Surveillance video of hit-and-run in Dearborn

The 38-year-old allegedly behind the wheel was arraigned in district court on multiple charges including attempted murder.

See the arraignment in the video below: Dearborn man arraigned in hit-and-run over the weekend

Video circulating on social media shows Al Fadawi going to Dearborn police, warning that someone was trying to kill him just hours before the attack.

Surveillance video shows intentional attack

Surveillance video from Westborn Physical Therapy shows Al Fadawi crossing the street around 10:45 p.m. on Saturday. A vehicle that appears to be lying in wait pulls out of a nearby parking lot, speeds up, veers to the left, and hits Al Fadawi as he tries running away. The driver fled the scene, leaving him for dead.

"It's unfathomable that somebody would want to do something so intentionally to hurt someone else over something so miniscule," said Amir Makled, an attorney representing Al Fadawi's family.

Makled described Al Fadawi as a well-known community member and father of seven.

"Haidar is an individual that is a family man; he is a father of seven, he's someone everyone in the community knows, everybody's seen his car in town, that's part of who he is," Makled said.

Al Fadawi's decorated car is well known around town. His family is no stranger to tragedy in 2021, his 7-year-old daughter Batoul was tragically killed in another hit-and-run in Dearborn.

PREVIOUS STORY: Father of 6-year-old girl killed in Dearborn hit and run shares message to drivers Father of 6-year-old girl killed in Dearborn hit and run shares message to drivers

"Anybody who knew him knew that he wouldn't hurt a fly, so for him to have suffered this type of an injury at the hands of somebody else is really unjustified," Makled said.

Suspect charged, claims ongoing dispute

The man accused of running over Al Fadawi is 38-year-old Murtadha Jabbar Alizairij, who allegedly fled the scene before calling 911 to turn himself in 30 minutes later. He was arraigned on multiple charges, including assault with intent to murder.

"There is a video of the incident, but there are many videos of the victim threatening my client, threatening his family, insulting everybody. This has been building up," said Abed Hammoud, attorney for the defendant.

Both attorneys say Al Fadawi was employed by the suspect's family until a recent dispute. Hammoud claims Al Fadawi was recently let go, but Makled alleges Al Fadawi left after making complaints, saying he had worked as a truck driver and the company failed to have adequate insurance.

Haidar made it very clear that he was upset, that hed be put in a position where hes driving semi trucks that are uninsured. So Haidar received a traffic ticket because of that, and the company failed to respond to the traffic ticket, and thats what upset Haidar so much, said Makled. That's what caused this dispute, it's over a $500 traffic ticket.

Victim warned police before attack

Less than 24 hours before the attack, Al Fadawi visited the police station in what has become a viral video on social media. He asks an officer at the desk for an update on a previous assault on August 21st. Makled says during that assault, Al Fadawi was beaten with a crowbar.

"What happens if they come and try to kill me again, or they kill me?" Al Fadawi is heard saying to an officer.

"Call us," the officer replied.

"After they kill me, I call you?" Al Fadawi is heard asking the officer.

"Sure," the officer responded.

"That's from the police station, they say after they kill you, call me, just in case I get killed," Al Fadawi said as he walked out of the station.

The Dearborn Police Department says that interaction is now under internal review.

"Clearly, Haidar was under the suspicion that these people were out to hurt him and made reports to local law enforcement about these potential threats," Makled said.

Both Dearborn's Mayor and Police Chief released statements on the interaction.

Public safety is our highest priority, and we take every concern seriously. We understand the community has questions and are committed to ensuring trust through transparency and accountability, said Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin.

"Every individual who interacts with the Dearborn Police Department must be treated with dignity, respect, and empathyalways," said Mayor Abdullah Hammoud. "While the suspect is in custody and that investigation moves forward, we are also launching a thorough review of the victims prior interactions with our department. Trust and accountability are not optionalthey are required."

The suspect was given a $750,000 cash surety bond with no 10% option.

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.

Detroit Public Schools Community District buses are now equipped with high-tech cameras designed to catch drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, putting student safety at risk as the new school year begins Monday.

Watch the video report below: Detroit school buses get new cameras to catch drivers who don't stop for kids

The camera system uses artificial intelligence to capture violations across eight lanes of traffic, automatically zooming in on license plates to issue $295 tickets to vehicle owners who fail to stop when buses display their stop signs with red flashing lights. DPSCD Public Safety will review suspected violations before a citation is issued

"It's not about the money; it's about saving student lives," Aaron Walter said.

Walter, executive director of transportation at Detroit Public Schools Community District, explained how the new technology works during a demonstration of the bus-mounted cameras.

"The bus has eight cameras, so we'll capture video and pictures of the violation. It will zoom in on the license plate and that's how a ticket is issued," Walter said.

According to Michigan law, drivers must stop at least 20 feet away when a school bus displays its stop sign with red flashing lights. This requirement applies to all traffic on both sides of the road, unless there's a divided highway.

The cameras represent a significant enforcement upgrade for protecting students. Previously, police officers had to witness violations in person to issue citations.

"In the past officers have actually had to witness that vehicle disobeying the stop sign or alternating red lights from those school buses," Cpl. Billy Shillingburg said.

Shillingburg, with the Taylor Police Department, confirmed similar camera technology will soon be implemented in Taylor. He noted law enforcement would still review the video evidence and have final say on whether a citation is issued.

"How big of a gamechanger is it to be able to enforce that law?" I asked.

"It's huge. It's definitely huge for the kids. The kids have the ultimate safety in here," Shillingburg said.

While state law has allowed these cameras for about four years. New legislation passed last year enables ticket revenue to return to school districts. In Detroit, 40% of the $295 fine goes back to the district for bus safety improvements.

Parents attending a free back-to-school event at Detroit's Corner Ballpark, hosted by the nonprofit Detroit Is Me, expressed strong support for the new safety measures.

"That's a really good idea to have these cameras," Courtney Fields said.

Fields, a Detroit Public Schools Community District parent, believes the technology will provide additional peace of mind.

"These people are really going to stop now because they know if they don't, they will get a ticket," Fields 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.

The Oakland County Sheriff's Office is investigating the city's seventh serious hit-and-run so far this year. This has unfortunately become a pattern in the city.

Watch Brittany's full report in the video player below 'It's scary': Residents concerned after seventh hit-and-run crash in Pontiac this year

Sunday night around 10:30 p.m., a man was critically injured at the intersection of Perry Street and Martin Luther King Jr. And weeks before that, there were two separate deadly crashes, within blocks of each other on Baldwin Avenue.

Watch our previous coverage 2 killed in separate hit-and-runs on same Pontiac road prompts changes, investigation Deputies believe the victim in the most recent crash was crossing Perry heading westbound when he was hit by the driver heading northbound. They don't know for certain if the pedestrian was in the crosswalk or not, but once the driver fled the scene, it became a serious crime.

My most important question is, where's your humanity? How can you hit another person and just leave? questioned Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard.

The pedestrian was crossing the street when he was struck by what witnesses say was a white work truck. The driver fled the scene, leaving the man lying in road.

Alexis Bragg and her boyfriend live near the intersection and heard the crash, then saw the lights. But they say it wasn't loud like the typical car versus car crashes they're used to hearing at this intersection.

I like walking, I like taking my kids for a walk, but it's so scary to be on the main road in Pontiac that we barely even do it anymore, Alexis said.

She's not the only resident aware of the crashes in the area for years.

In the summer, we usually see about 4 or 5 accidents," said Joshua Moore. "A couple of years ago, I had a car come up between my house and my neighbor's house. If that fence wasnt there they would've ended up in my kitchen."

With how many accidents we see, its scary," Alexis said.

Police don't know who the victim in Sunday's crash is. Deputies told us he's Hispanic and in his late teens or 20s. Sheriff Bouchard said pedestrians should use caution at night, wear brighter clothes, and use crosswalks. He also said pedestrians shouldn't be glued to their phones and should cross in well lit spots. But no matter what, drivers needs to stop.

We encourage folks to stop, because whether you're at fault or not, you're compounding it in a very significant way by leaving the scene," Sheriff Bouchard said.

The Sheriff's Department is asking anyone with information on this crqash or any of the previous hit-and-runs to come forward. You can give them a call at (248)858-4950, and you can remain anonymous.