Over 5.2 million above-ground pools sold throughout the United States and Canada are being recalled following multiple reports of child drownings. The recall affects various models from Bestway, Intex Recreation, and Polygroup that were available for purchase at major retailers dating back to 2002. According to safety warnings issued Monday by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Health Canada, the pools feature exterior compression straps that may act as climbing aids for young children, allowing them to access the water without supervision. The CPSC has linked nine child drowning deaths in the U.S. to this design flaw. These incidents occurred between 2007 and 2022 and involved children ranging in age from 22 months to 3 years old. No similar fatalities have been reported in Canada. Consumers who own the affected pool models are urged to contact Bestway, Intex, or Polygroup to request a free repair kit. The fix includes a rope to replace the problematic compression strap. Until repairs are completed, officials recommend keeping children away from the pools or draining the water to prevent any further risk. All recalled pools are at least 48 inches in height and can be identified through model names listed on the CPSC and Health Canada recall pages. The products were sold both in stores and online at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Costco, Lowe’s, and Amazon, with sales continuing through 2025. Roughly 5 million of the recalled pools were sold in the United States and 266,000 in Canada. Millions of Above-ground Pools Recalled After Child Drowning Deaths Across U.S. and Canada

A Buffalo man is facing multiple felony charges after stabbing a police officer during a domestic violence response in Amherst, according to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office. Rayquell Grant, 26, has been charged with attempted murder in the 1st degree, attempted assault in the 1st degree, and assault in the 2nd degree. The charges stem from an incident that occurred around 5pm Saturday on the 4800 block of North Bailey Avenue. Police responded to a 911 call involving a domestic dispute. Authorities say Grant allegedly jumped from a rear window and charged at Officer Aidan Vangelov with two large knives, stabbing him in the arm. Vangelov and Lieutenant Matthew Lobuglio then fired their weapons, injuring Grant in the chest and arm. Both Vangelov and Grant were transported to Erie County Medical Center for treatment. Vangelov sustained stab wounds while Grant was treated for gunshot injuries. According to the District Attorney’s Office, Grant was also wanted for failing to appear in court on a prior domestic violence-related case. Following a review, officials concluded that the officers' use of force was justified and cleared them of any criminal wrongdoing. Grant is currently being held without bail. A court date has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence. Man Faces Attempted Murder Charge After Officer Stabbed

Two men from Schenectady are facing multiple charges after Colonie Police say they discovered a loaded firearm concealed in a stroller occupied by a 2-month-old baby. According to police, 19-year-old Jose Rivera and 22-year-old Charles Jones were taken into custody Friday night near 1770 Central Avenue. Officers say they found a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun and two high-capacity magazines hidden inside a diaper bag placed under the child’s stroller. Rivera and Jones have been charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and endangering the welfare of a child. Both suspects were arraigned in Colonie Town Court on Saturday and released under probation supervision. Loaded Gun Found Hidden in Baby Stroller; Two Upstate New York Men Charged

Governor Kathy Hochul is urging federal leaders to take swift action against the rising threat posed by drones. In letters addressed to President Donald Trump and congressional leaders, Hochul called for a national strategy to detect and respond to potential drone-related threats and for expanded powers for states to address them directly. The governor's push comes after several suspicious drone sightings were reported in New York City and the Hudson Valley in late 2024. Hochul argued that these incidents exposed gaps in the federal government’s preparedness and highlighted the need for stronger state authority. She stressed the urgency of enhancing national drone detection capabilities with layered defenses designed to protect urban centers, energy infrastructure, and military facilities. According to Hochul, a successful attack on any of these areas in New York could pose a severe risk to national security. Summer 2026 presents additional concerns, according to Hochul, as the state is expected to host high-profile events such as the World Cup and the 250th anniversary of American independence. Hochul warned that these gatherings could serve as attractive targets without stronger safeguards in place. With the current legal authority granted to the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI set to expire in September, Hochul emphasized the need for states to be granted the power to detect and mitigate drone threats in coordination with federal agencies. She described this shift as “a matter of urgent concern.” At the state level, lawmakers from both parties have introduced various legislative proposals regarding drone use. These proposals have included bans on drones near prisons, schools, and critical infrastructure, limits on law enforcement drone use, and restrictions on using drones for surveillance of individuals with a reasonable expectation of privacy. One measure also sought to prohibit weaponizing drones. Despite these efforts, no major drone-related legislation has been signed into law during Hochul’s administration. A recent report by the New York Civil Liberties Union revealed a dramatic increase in drone ownership among government agencies across the state. According to the report, the number of drones registered to state and local agencies rose 65% from 2022 to 2024, with 876 drones linked to 127 agencies by 2024. The report also found that law enforcement agencies operate 508 of these drones, raising concerns about privacy due to the lack of oversight or regulatory frameworks governing their use. Hochul Warns New York at Risk of Drone Attacks

Niagara Falls Police are investigating a hit-and-run crash that took place early Sunday morning involving a vehicle and a 14-year-old riding an e-bike. The collision happened around 12:50am on 11th Street near Michigan Avenue. Emergency crews, including police, firefighters, and AMR paramedics, responded to the scene and found the injured teenager lying in the roadway next to the e-bike. He was transported to Oishei Children’s Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Police believe that the teen had been traveling south on Lockport Street and entered the intersection against a red light. An SUV, which had the right of way with a green light, struck the teen in the intersection and continued driving away from the scene. The striking vehicle is described as a white 4-door SUV and is believed to have front-end damage. Police are continuing to search for the vehicle and driver involved. Teen on E-Bike Hit by Vehicle and Hospitalized After Running Red Light in Niagara Falls

Two people were hospitalized following a crash involving a motorcycle and an SUV Sunday afternoon in the Town of Cambria, according to the Niagara County Sheriff's Office. A deputy discovered the crash around 4:55pm while on patrol along Campbell Boulevard. The 60-year-old man operating the motorcycle was found lying in the road with serious injuries. Deputies provided medical assistance until emergency medical services arrived. The man was later airlifted to Erie County Medical Center by Mercy Flight and reportedly has life-threatening injuries. A preliminary investigation revealed the motorcyclist had been heading south on Campbell Boulevard when he crossed into the northbound lane and collided head-on with an SUV. The SUV’s driver, a 38-year-old woman, sustained minor injuries and was taken to ECMC by ambulance. Authorities have not released the names of those involved. No charges have been filed against the driver of the SUV, although that is subject to change. The incident remains under investigation by the Sheriff's Office Accident Investigation Unit. Motorcycle-SUV Crash in Niagara County Sends Two to Hospital, One Via Airlift with Life-threatening Injuries

A 9-year-old girl who was reported abducted in Upstate New York over the weekend has been found dead, with state police now saying there is “no indication” that an abduction actually occurred. Melina Frattolin was discovered deceased in the Town of Ticonderoga, located in Essex County, according to a Sunday statement from New York State Police spokesperson Trooper Stephanie O’Neil. Initially reported missing in Lake George, Melina was last seen in a van near Exit 22 of the Adirondack Northway (I87), which is roughly an hour south of where her body was later located. Her father, Luciano Frattolin, contacted 911 around 10pm Saturday to report a possible abduction. In response, an AMBER Alert was issued at approximately 1:30am Sunday. At that time, authorities believes that she was in imminent danger of serious harm or death. The case was initially handled by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office before the New York State Police assumed control. Investigators later uncovered inconsistencies in the father's version of events and the timeline he provided. A large-scale search effort followed including the State Police, Essex County Sheriff’s Office, Ticonderoga Police Department, and officers/forest rangers from the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). A DEC officer ultimately located Melina’s body during a grid search in the Ticonderoga area. Authorities have confirmed that there is no evidence an abduction occurred and have stated that there is no threat to public safety. A news conference is scheduled for Monday to provide further details. Both Melina and her father are Canadian nationals. Officials have not revealed if the father is currently a suspect. 9-year-old Girl Found Dead in Upstate New York After Abduction Report Deemed Inaccurate

Cheektowaga Police are investigating a Lackawanna Avenue shooting that left a 2-year-old injured Sunday morning in the Village of Sloan. Officers responded to the scene around 10:30am after reports of shots fired. One individual was taken into custody as part of the investigation. Their name has not been released. Authorities confirmed that the child was rushed to Oishei Children’s Hospital where surgery was performed. The child's condition is unknown at this time. No further information is available at this time. An investigation is ongoing. 2-year-old Shot and Undergoes Emergency Surgery

A Take 5 lottery ticket sold in Niagara Falls has earned one winner a payout of more than $35,000. The ticket, valued at $35,174.50, was purchased at Super Mario Market, 2304 Pine Avenue. It matched all five numbers drawn during Friday evening’s game, making it the top-prize winner of the night. The winning numbers for the drawing were 3, 11, 13, 23, and 38. Winning Take 5 Ticket Worth $35K Sold at Mario's in Niagara Falls

NYSEG and Rochester Gas and Electric have submitted a formal proposal to the New York State Department of Public Service requesting an increase in the delivery rates for gas and electricity. According to a press release issued by NYSEG, customers may see their utility bills rise by 22% under the proposed changes. The request is part of the “Powering NY” plan, which outlines the need to cover both current and new mandated charges passed on to consumers. NYSEG states that these charges already account for around 22% of customer bills and would support a range of initiatives, including storm restoration efforts within 72 hours, customer assistance programs, upgrades to support statewide broadband, compliance with state climate goals, and adherence to new prevailing wage laws and requirements for in-state call centers. The plan also includes funding to hire over 1,000 new full-time employees to assist in meeting the state’s evolving energy and infrastructure needs. The Department of Public Service is not expected to vote on the proposal until 2026 as it needs adequate time to assess the plan’s impact on customers and how it aligns with both existing and future regulations in New York. If approved, the proposed rate increases could go into effect as early as 2026 or possibly in 2027. NYSEG Proposes 22% Utility Rate Hike for New Yorkers; Decision Expected in 2026

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 500 block of 12th Street around 12:50am on July 15th after reports of an argument that was later determined to be an assault.   Upon arrival, officers made contact with the victim who stated he got into an argument with his roommate, which then escalated physically. During the course of the argument, the suspect attacked the victim by punching him in the face multiple times causing a contusion above his right eye. The victim further stated that the suspect scratched his neck with his thumbnail causing a minor cut to the right side of his neck. He did wish to pursue criminal charges.   Officers then spoke to the suspect who stated that the victim started to attack him and he was only trying to defend himself. However, officers observed no injuries on the suspect. AMR was requested and responded to the scene for medical evaluation. The victim was transported to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center for treatment.   The suspect was taken into custody without incident and placed in the back of marked patrol vehicle 48. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was then released on an appearance ticket. Victim Severely Beaten by Roommate and Hospitalized in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 1:30am on July 15th when they observed a vehicle traveling East on the 1300 block of South Avenue with no headlights or taillights on.   Officers pulled behind the vehicle and activated overhead emergency lights initiating a traffic stop, to which the operator complied. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers came into contact with the male driver and sole occupant of the vehicle.   Officers immediately smelled a strong odor of alcohol emanating from the vehicle. The male driver had slurred speech and glassy eyes. There was music coming from the vehicle and it was extremely loud. Officers asked him to turn down the music. He looked confused and disoriented and was unable to find the dial in order to turn down the music.   At this time, officers asked the driver for his license and registration to which he replied, “you caught me riding dirty, I’ve been drinking.” Officers had him exit the vehicle. While doing so, he fell into the driver’s side door and then into an officer.   Officers had to grab ahold of him in order to stop him from hitting from the ground. Due to him falling on the officer, he was able to smell an overwhelming odor of alcohol from his person. Officers ordered the driver to move towards the back of his vehicle where he again started stumbling and used the car to catch his balance. While patting him down for weapons officers asked if he had any weapons on him to which he replied, “yeah, I’ve got all the guns and drugs.”   The driver then stated, “come on take me to the police station f*ck all this.” Officers attempting to calm him down. However, he became more hostile and tried to push past officers. Due to his erratic behavior and officer safety, he was placed in handcuffs and detained in the rear of a patrol vehicle. While looking at the vehicle, officers observed what appeared to be the handle of a white handgun sticking out from under the driver’s seat in plain view. Upon taking a closer look, officers were able to clearly identify that it was indeed a firearm.   While entering the vehicle to retrieve the driver’s wallet, as directed by the driver, officers observed a second firearm a second firearm in the center console. There was also a spent shall casing on the driver’s seat. Officers then did a thorough search of the vehicle at which time a third firearm was located under the driver’s seat. During the search, officers found five additional spent shell casings and an open alcoholic beverage called “Labatt Ice” that was cold to the touch on the passenger seat.   Officers asked the driver if he had a pistol permit to carry the firearms located in the vehicle to which he replied, “do you have a stupid permit?” He then expressed he would like a lawyer and all questions ceased. The driver was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated and transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. While booking him, officers asked if he would perform standardized field sobriety testing, to which he refused. He also refused to submit to a chemical breath test.   No further information is available at this time. Three Illegal Firearms Found Inside Vehicle: 'You caught me riding dirty, I’ve been drinking'

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 7100 block of Niagara Falls Boulevard – Papa Johns Pizza – around 4pm on July 15th after reports of an assault.   Upon arrival, officers spoke to the worker/complainant who stated he was working at the register helping a customer when that customer had to check if he had “been paid.” The customer then became irate, stating, “why do you need to know? I already paid” and then stated, “do you want to fight?” The employee/victim stated, “no I see you paid, just take your food and leave.”   At that time the customer went around the counter and started punching the employee in the face.   The employee tried to run away, but the customer chased him throughout the kitchen. The customer then pushed him to the ground and punched him in the face again. He then got up and left the store. It is unknown if he took his pizza or not. The suspect is described as a black male wearing a red shirt. He left in a Jeep Cherokee. Officers were able to get the NYS registration from his license plate and discovered who it was registered to. Police also received the name and phone number that the suspect had used to order his food. Officers observed injuries to the employee consistent with multiple hits to the face. He stated he would like medical attention due to several injuries, including back pain from being slammed to the ground. He also felt lightheaded and had blurry vision. AMR arrived on scene. No further information is available at this time. Customer at Papa Johns Attacks Employee, Repeatedly Punches in Face and Chases Through Kitchen

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 10pm on July 14th when they observed a vehicle traveling southbound on Lane Street from 9th Street with no NYS Inspection sticker on the windshield.   Officers quickly got behind the vehicle, activated lights and sirens, and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. Immediately, the driver of the vehicle failed to stop as he continued to travel southbound on Profit Lane Street and away from officers. Officers did follow behind the vehicle as he continued to flee and not stop for police lights and sirens. While behind the suspect, he did recklessly drive through City of Niagara Falls streets attempting to evade police and traveled at unreasonable speeds.   After a few minutes, the suspect did travel into an apartment complex on the 3300 block of 9th Street when he finally stopped the vehicle. At this time, the driver/operator was placed into custody. While doing so, he did stated, “all because my inspection sticker. . . .” The front seat passenger, a female and suspected significant other, told police that she told him to stop multiple times but he refused to listen. The vehicle was found to have no valid NYS inspection. A tow was requested at which point United Auto did arrive and take custody of the vehicle. Officers located several open alcoholic beverages, Budlights, in plain view. Officers spoke to the driver about them at which point he stated, “I had one beer.” The suspect was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. At booking, officers did administer standardized field sobriety testing. Upon completion of all tests, officers administered a breath test where he submitted a valid sample of .036 BAC.   The driver was charged with unlawful fleeing a police officer, aggravated unlicensed operation, reckless driving, among traffic infractions. It is not known if he was charged with driving while ability impaired. No further information is available at this time. Meet Mr 'I had one beer' - No Inspection Sticker Leads to Police Chase

A motorcyclist was killed Thursday night following a collision with a car on Saunders Settlement Road in Sanborn, according to Lewiston Police. The crash occurred just before 9pm on Saunders Settlement Road between Chew Road and Walmore Road. Responding officers arrived to find the motorcyclist unresponsive. They immediately began life-saving efforts until EMTs and paramedics arrived to take over. Despite their efforts, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the vehicle involved was assessed by emergency personnel on site but declined further medical treatment. Investigators say the vehicle was headed west on Saunders Settlement Road when it reportedly veered into the eastbound lane, striking the motorcyclist. Authorities stated that the driver is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The name of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of family. At this time, there have been no charges against the driver. However, that is subject to change as the investigation unfolds. Motorcyclist Dies After Collision with Car in Niagara County

Popular Yogurt Recalled Over Safety Concerns in New York Consumers in New York and across the country are being urged to check their refrigerators after a nationwide recall was issued for a well-known yogurt brand. Danone, the company behind YoCrunch, has voluntarily recalled various yogurt products distributed throughout the U.S. citing a possible health hazard involving plastic contamination. "Danone U.S., the makers of YoCrunch, takes every consumer experience seriously and is initiating this voluntary recall in line with its commitment to product quality and consumer safety," according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall affects all flavors and package sizes of YoCrunch currently available at retailers nationwide. Health officials warn that the recall stems from the discovery of plastic fragments in the dome toppers that accompany the yogurt. "If consumed, the plastic pieces could potentially cause a choking response. The issue is isolated only to the separately packaged topper and does not impact the separately packaged yogurt," the FDA explains. The issue came to light after several consumers reported finding sharp, transparent plastic inside the topping section. The plastic fragments range in size from 7 to 25 millimeters, posing a serious choking risk to children. "The plastic pieces are transparent, may have sharp edges, and could present a risk to consumers because some pieces are between 7 and 25 mm in length," the FDA warned. Anyone who has purchased the affected products are advised not to eat them. The FDA encourages customers to reach out to YoCrunch customer service to request a refund. Popular Children’s Yogurt Contains Sharp Plastic in New York — Do Not Eat

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 1500 block of Centre Avenue for a reported subject with a knife around 5am on July 12th.   Upon arrival, officers were met outside by the victim who identified herself and began to explain what occurred. She said that a male known to her as Darius Washington entered her apartment through an unlocked front door and threatened to kill her with a knife. He entered the apartment with the knife already in hand. Once face to face with her, he told the victim that he was going to kill her. A short scuffle ensued and Washington left the home and dropped the knife outside. Officers did observe the broken chair and located the knife in the front yard. Washington was given a property receipt after the knife was secured as evidence. Neither party claimed to have any injuries. The police report did not describe what Washington’s motivation was for threatening to end the victim’s life. However, it is possible that they were in some sort of relationship and when Washington was rejected, he retaliated.   Washington was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was charged with Menacing 2nd, Burglary 1st, and Criminal Mischief. No further information is available at this time. Suspect Breaks Into Home and Threatens to Kill Woman with Knife in Niagara Falls

The entertainment lineup for the 2025 New York State Fair has been released and features a variety of artists and tribute acts across multiple genres. From rock and country to pop and funk, the concerts are included with the price of admission, so no separate ticket needed. All shows are scheduled to take place at either Chevy Court or Suburban Park. Performances are free for all fairgoers, but the lineup is subject to change. Wednesday, August 20th The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA — 1pm, Chevy Court George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic — 6pm, Chevy Court Nate Smith — 8pm, Suburban Park Thursday, August 21 Taylor Dayne — 1pm, Chevy Court Cheap Trick — 6pm, Chevy Court Steve Miller Band — 8pm, Suburban Park (CANCELLED) Friday, August 22 Lily Rose — 1pm, Chevy Court Neon Trees — 6pm, Chevy Court Jessie Murph — 8pm, Suburban Park The Lady Gaga Tribute — 9pm, Chevy Court Saturday, August 23 Kidz Bop — 1pm, Chevy Court Kameron Marlowe — 6pm, Chevy Court O.A.R. — 8pm, Suburban Park Sunday, August 24 Los Lonely Boys — 1pm, Chevy Court GROUPLOVE — 6pm, Chevy Court Busta Rhymes — 8pm, Suburban Park Monday, August 25 Slippery When Wet (Bon Jovi tribute) — 1pm, Chevy Court The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus — 6pm, Chevy Court 98 Degrees — 8pm, Suburban Park Tuesday, August 26 Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone — 1pm, Chevy Court Sister Hazel — 6pm, Chevy Court Lil Jon — 8pm, Suburban Park Wednesday, August 27 Tusk (Fleetwood Mac tribute) — 1pm, Chevy Court Red Hot Chilli Pipers — 6pm, Chevy Court Carly Pearce — 8pm, Suburban Park Thursday, August 28 Maddie & Tae — 6pm, Chevy Court Lynyrd Skynyrd — 8pm, Suburban Park Friday, August 29 Vertical Horizon — 1pm, Chevy Court DJ Pauly D — 9pm, Chevy Court Saturday, August 30 JAMS Funk Fest 2025 — 12pm, Chevy Court All Time Low — 8pm, Suburban Park Sunday, August 31 Shaggy — 8pm, Suburban Park The Funky Divas of En Vogue — 6pm, Chevy Court Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) Dionne Warwick — 12pm, Chevy Court 24K Magic – The Ultimate Bruno Mars Tribute Experience — 4pm, Chevy Court +LIVE+ — 6pm, Suburban Park 2025 New York State Fair Concert Schedule: Here's Who's Performing

A man suspected of fatally shooting a woman early Thursday in Buffalo is now in custody following a police chase and crash on the I-90, according to New York State Police sources. Authorities had been searching for 49-year-old Rickey Crouch who was wanted in connection with the shooting death of 44-year-old Amanda Thompson. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday morning on the 600 block of South Ogden Street. Following the shooting, Crouch was involved in a police pursuit that ended when he crashed into an uninvolved vehicle and was ejected from his own. After being treated for injuries, he will be handed over to Buffalo Police. Buffalo Police Chief of Detectives Craig Macy said officers responded to a call reporting shots fired shortly after midnight. Upon arrival, they discovered Thompson suffering from gunshot wounds. She later died from her injuries. Investigators say Crouch and Thompson were previously involved in a domestic relationship. In May, Crouch was arrested for breaking into Thompson’s residence with a firearm. Despite the seriousness of the charges, he was released shortly afterward. He later violated an order of protection but was again released (once on his own recognizance and once on $50,000 bail). Officials stated that the District Attorney’s Office had opposed his release on all occasions. “I think none of us can argue that there’s adjustments that need to be made to the criminal justice system here in the country,” Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon said during a press conference.. “You have a district attorney’s office that was asking for him, because he was obviously seen as a threat, to be held, but he wasn’t and I think that’s a large problem.” Authorities also revealed that Crouch has a prior homicide conviction. He was released early from parole in 2023 and was recently linked to a shots fired incident in Cheektowaga. That investigation is ongoing. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $7,500 for any information related to Crouch. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at (716) 867-6161 or the Buffalo Police Department at (716) 847-2255. Man Accused of Killing Woman Captured After Ejection from Car During Police Chase

UPDATE The deceased passenger from the fatal motor vehicle accident on Lockport Junction Road on July 16th has been identified as 47 year old Rodolfo Espinoza III, of the Town of Newfane. The investigation is continuing by the NCSO Accident Investigation Unit (AIU). A Newfane man is facing criminal charges following a fatal crash that claimed the life of his passenger Wednesday night in the Town of Lockport, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies say 52-year-old Thomas Summers was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle veered off the road and struck a utility pole near 5151 Lockport Junction Road at approximately 7:05pm A 47-year-old male passenger, also from Newfane, was trapped inside the truck and pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released. Summers, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was arrested and charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter and driving while ability impaired by drugs. He was arraigned on Thursday, July 17th. The crash remains under active investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Deceased Passenger Identified After Drunk Friend Crashed Vehicle into Utility Pole

Ashley Marie Berger, a Niagara Falls woman serving a 15-year prison sentence for the fatal stabbing of a man in 2014, is asking to be released early citing a lifetime of abuse and the impact that being a victim of domestic violence has had on her actions. Now 42, Berger appeared in Niagara County Court on Tuesday, July 15th, where she testified in support of a sentence reduction under New York’s Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act (DVSJA). Berger, who has served 10 years of her sentence, is seeking leniency from Judge John Ottaviano. The DVSJA, signed into law in 2019, allows judges to reduce sentences if a defendant can prove that abuse played a significant role in their criminal behavior. The case stems from the April 2014 death of Richard Christian, 22, whom Berger fatally stabbed in a Niagara Falls motel room during a dispute. Police said Christian had paid Berger, who was working as an escort under the alias “Fiona,” but attempted to take back the money. A struggle ensued and Berger stabbed him. He was able to make it a short distance outside of the motel room before collapsing. She later pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter and was sentenced in 2015. In court this week, Berger gave emotional testimony about her history of trauma and abuse, starting in her childhood. She described being sexually abused at age 3 by her mother’s ex-boyfriend and later by a stepfather. As an adult, she said she entered into a long-term abusive relationship with the father of her children. “He was abusive, selling drugs and drinking a lot,” she stated. “He broke my nose and put my head through a window while I was pregnant.” After leaving that relationship, Berger moved into Carolyn’s House, a transitional home for women and children escaping domestic violence. She described the shelter as a turning point - a safe space - where she worked part-time jobs and tried to rebuild her life. However, her attempt to reconnect with her ex-partner and move out on her own led to further instability. Eventually, she found herself alone with her young daughter in a Third Street apartment. It was then she met a man referred to in court as E.C., his identity protected by a judicial order as a human trafficking suspect and alleged abuser. Berger said she met E.C. at a party and was initially charmed. But within weeks, he became abusive and manipulative. “He was hitting me, dragging me down the stairs,” she claimed. “He said, since you like having sex with people for free you could just get paid for it. He made it sound so easy.” Berger described how E.C. pressured her into sex work, driving her to hotels and controlling her earnings. She said he gave her drugs to dull her resistance, while he arranged “appointments” using the now-defunct Backpage website. “I told him I’m scared. I don’t want to do this. He said it will be fine. It will just take a few minutes." Berger said that over time, she was forced to see multiple clients every weekend and could make up to $1,000 per night, all of which E.C. took. Prosecutors contend that Berger’s decision to engage in sex work was voluntary and they oppose any reduction in her sentence. The DVSJA requires that a defendant show they were a victim of domestic violence at the time of the offense and that the abuse significantly contributed to the criminal act. Prosecutors argue that Berger’s actions don’t meet that threshold. Christian was found with a stab wound outside a room at the Rodeway Inn on Main Street in Niagara Falls. He later died at the hospital. Berger was arrested shortly afterward and has remained incarcerated since her 2015 sentencing. Berger's testimony is set to continue this morning. Her legal team, led by Dara Sheinfeld, maintains that her history of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse directly contributed to the events that led to Christian’s death. One of the expert witnesses expected to appear is Dr. Dawn Hughes, a nationally recognized forensic psychologist known for her involvement in high-profile cases including the trials of Harvey Weinstein and Sean “Diddy” Combs. Dr. Hughes is expected to discuss how Berger's history of trauma may have influenced her decision-making the night of the stabbing. When the DVSJA was passed, researchers at Brooklyn Law School estimated that nearly 500 incarcerated individuals across New York might be eligible for re-sentencing under the statute. Berger was among those identified as potentially qualifying. Judge Ottaviano is expected to make a decision on her request later this year. Woman Convicted of Killing Man Over $100 Testified in Hearing for Early Release Under Domestic Violence Law

Ashley Marie Berger took the stand in Niagara County Court on Wednesday and described the encounter that ended with her fatally stabbing a man during a prostitution transaction in 2014. Berger, who is seeking a reduced sentence under New York’s Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act, testified that Richard Christian visited her at a South End Niagara Falls motel in the early hours of April 27th, 2014. According to her account, Christian paid her $100 in cash for sex. However, the situation turned violent when he removed his condom during the act. “I said, no we have to stop,” recalled Berger. “So at first he didn’t want to stop but I finally got him off of me, and he wanted his money back.” Berger explained that she had strict rules set by a man referred to in court only as “E.C." (her on-again, off-again boyfriend and alleged pimp). E.C. reportedly enforced condom use to protect her health and to monitor her activity. Berger said he would count used condoms in hotel room wastebaskets to verify the number of clients. Berger testified that after Christian ignored her pleas to stop and tried to continue without protection, she attempted to call a friend for help. "He slapped the phone out of my hand and punched me in the head,” testified Berger. “I got up and grabbed a knife from underneath the mattress. I was scared something bad would happen to me and I had all these vision of the past.” Berger said she held the knife up to protect herself, but Christian lunged at her. “I stabbed him,” said Berger. “I can’t say what I felt. I can see myself do it, but I feel like I wasn’t actually there.” According to her testimony, Christian then put his shoes on and walked out of the motel room. Moments later, she heard a loud thud. “I heard a thud and when I opened the door I saw him lying on the ground." Berger told the court she immediately contacted Niagara Falls Police and threw the knife off the motel’s balcony. When officers arrived at the Rodeway Inn on Main Street, they found Christian, 22, collapsed outside the room with a stab wound to his chest. He was taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center where he was pronounced dead shortly after. Testifying on Tuesday, Berger gave emotional testimony about her history of trauma and abuse, starting in her childhood. She described being sexually abused at age 3 by her mother’s ex-boyfriend and later by a stepfather. As an adult, she said she entered into a long-term abusive relationship with the father of her children. “He was abusive, selling drugs and drinking a lot,” said Berger. “He broke my nose and put my head through a window while I was pregnant.” After leaving that relationship, Berger moved into Carolyn’s House, a transitional home for women and children escaping domestic violence. She described the shelter as a turning point, a safe space, where she worked part-time jobs and tried to rebuild her life. However, her attempt to reconnect with her ex-partner and move out on her own led to further instability. Eventually, she found herself alone with her young daughter in a Third Street apartment. It was then she met a man referred to in court as E.C.. Berger said she met E.C. at a party and was initially charmed. But within weeks, he became abusive and manipulative. “He was hitting me [and] dragging me down the stairs,” she said. “He said, since you like having sex with people for free you could just get paid for it. He made it sound so easy.” Berger described how E.C. pressured her into sex work, driving her to hotels and controlling her earnings. She said he gave her drugs to dull her resistance, while he arranged appointments using the now-defunct Backpage website. “I told him, I’m scared. I don’t want to do this. He said it will be fine. It will just take a few minutes." Berger said that over time, she was forced to see multiple clients every weekend and could make up to $1,000 per night, all of which E.C. took. “I was angry. I didn’t understand,” she said. “He was supposed to give me the money.” Prosecutors contend that Berger’s decision to engage in sex work was voluntary and they oppose any reduction in her sentence. The DVSJA requires that a defendant show they were a victim of domestic violence at the time of the offense and that the abuse significantly contributed to the criminal act. Prosecutors argue that Berger’s actions don’t meet that threshold. When the DVSJA was passed, researchers at Brooklyn Law School estimated that nearly 500 incarcerated individuals across New York might be eligible for re-sentencing under the statute. Berger was among those identified as potentially qualifying. Niagara Falls Woman Says She Killed Client After He Assaulted Her Over Condom Usage, $100 Dispute

A Buffalo woman who struck and killed a pedestrian while driving under the influence has been sentenced to 90 days in jail and five years of probation, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced. Niyonna Cunningham, 23, was behind the wheel of a Ford SUV with an infant inside when she fatally hit 62-year-old Madonna Bishop around 10pm on November 28th, 2024. The crash occurred near the intersection of Boehm Place and Bailey Avenue. Authorities say Cunningham was intoxicated at the time of the collision. Bishop was rushed to Erie County Medical Center where she was later pronounced dead. Cunningham pleaded guilty in May to one count of second-degree vehicular manslaughter, a felony charge that carried a potential maximum sentence of seven years in prison. Her plea and sentencing were handled in Erie County Court. In addition to the jail time and probation, Cunningham will be subject to other court-ordered conditions related to her conviction. Drunk Woman Sentenced to 90 Days in Jail After Killing Woman With Her Car

Actor Ron Perlman is lending his voice to a growing campaign led by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to end the nightly fireworks displays in Niagara Falls, citing the impact on animals and wildlife. In a newly released video, the “Hellboy” and “Sons of Anarchy” star appeals to Niagara Falls Tourism to cancel the summer fireworks series, which features explosive displays on 151 nights through October 13th. Perlman says the nightly booms and bright flashes are needlessly disturbing to local animals. “Just imagine dogs, cats, birds, deer and other animals being terrified every single night for months,” Perlman said. “The falls themselves are a spectacle - you don’t need fireworks to bring people in.” PETA has long opposed the fireworks tradition at the Falls, saying it causes significant distress to both pets and wildlife. The organization says frightened animals often flee in panic, with some dogs and cats breaking through windows or escaping fenced yards. Wildlife, they say, frequently end up disoriented and struck by vehicles after running onto roadways. Perlman, a known animal lover with several pets of his own, used the video to encourage fans to consider alternative celebrations, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July. He urged the city to explore quieter, animal-friendly options like drone light shows, which have already been successfully adopted in Canadian cities including Toronto, Ottawa, and North Bay. “Please do better,” Perlman said in closing. “Switch to drones. Give animals - and everyone else - a break.” According to PETA, more than 90,000 supporters have signed onto the campaign urging Niagara Falls officials to reconsider their nightly fireworks program. Ron Perlman Joins PETA in Urging Niagara Falls to End Nightly Fireworks

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 2600 block of Pine Avenue for a landlord/tenant dispute that later changed to menacing.   Upon arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated an individual was upstairs doing work swung pieces of metal at him and threatened to beat him up. Prior to this, the victim needed to take his dog outside so he asked the suspect to stay upstairs for a few minutes while he let the dog out. Despite the advisement to stay upstairs, the suspect came downstairs anyway, yelling the entire time that he was going to beat the sh*t out of him. The victim then pulled out his pepper spray and, after seeing it, the suspect went back upstairs.   Officers then spoke to the victim’s wife who stated that she was inside and heard her husband arguing with someone. She states when she opened the apartment door, she witnessed the suspect walking down the stairs swinging pieces of metal to her husband. She also states she heard the suspect say he was going to beat her husband’s as*. After the incident, she saw the suspect hide pieces of metal underneath mattresses and garbage bags outside.   Officers then spoke to the suspect who, at the start of their conversation, was not cooperating. He then went on to say that he never tried to hit the victim with anything, but that he did call him a fag*ot.”   He went on to say that he has been cleaning up this upper apartment for the property owner. The suspect was taken into custody despite his denials without incident. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing.   No further information is available at this time. Contractor Remodeling Apartment Threatens to Beat Tenant with Pieces of Metal

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 700 block of 15th Street around 12pm on July 12th after reports of criminal mischief that later included shots fired.   Upon arrival, officers were met by the victim who stated that she woke up this morning and her car had what appeared to be a bullet ricochet off her front windshield. She further told police that she was unaware of what happened between July 11th at 8pm and July 12th at 10am. She was then told by the neighbor that there were gunshots coming in the direction of Pine Avenue around 3am the night before. Officers contacted a Lieutenant  who advised they should talk to neighbors on 15th Street, hoping to get surveillance footage or any information corroborating evidence that it could have been a gunshot that struck the vehicle.   Officers were unable to find any other damage to the immediate area, nor were they able to find any casings in the area. One neighbor that police spoke to said that he heard gunshots from the direction of Pine Avenue around 3am but had no other information.   The estimated cost to replace the window is $500. No further information is available at this time. Bullet Ricochet from Shots Fired Near Pine Avenue Hits Victim's Vehicle

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 500 block of Cayuga Drive – Wilbur’s Bar – around 11:30am on July 11th after reports of criminal mischief.   Upon arrival, officers spoke to the complainant. He stated that between the hours of 2am and 9am on July 11th someone entered the back fenced area behind Wilbur’s and cut the speaker wire and camera wires around the patio bar. He further stated that this area is locked and completely fenced in. It was not reported if any property was missing. The initial estimated damage to property is $1,000. There are no known suspects. No further information is available at this time. Suspect Tampers with Speaker System, Cuts Camera Wires at Wilbur's Bar

A Newfane man is facing criminal charges following a fatal crash that claimed the life of his passenger Wednesday night in the Town of Lockport, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies say 52-year-old Thomas Summers was driving a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle veered off the road and struck a utility pole near 5151 Lockport Junction Road at approximately 7:05pm A 47-year-old male passenger, also from Newfane, was trapped inside the truck and pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released. Summers, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was arrested and charged with second-degree vehicular manslaughter and driving while ability impaired by drugs. He was taken to the Niagara County Jail where he awaits arraignment. The crash remains under active investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Driver charged After Passenger Dies in Niagara County Crash

Lewiston Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals connected to a recent theft investigation. According to the department, both individuals are considered persons of interest. Anyone with information that could help identify them is encouraged to call 716-754-8477 or send a private message to the Lewiston Police Department’s official Facebook page. Lewiston Police Request Public Assistance to Identify Suspected Criminals

A Buffalo priest who had been on administrative leave since last fall due to allegations of misconduct has been cleared to return to ministry, but with certain limitations. Rev. Walter Grabowski was placed on leave in September following accusations of “inappropriate, nonsexual behavior” involving adult women. After an investigation conducted by the Diocesan Independent Review Board, Bishop Michael Fisher announced that while the allegations were substantiated, Grabowski had completed a targeted program to address his behavior and may now resume limited ministerial duties. Although he has been reinstated, Grabowski is prohibited from serving in the parishes where he was last assigned. These include the parish family comprising Fourteen Holy Helpers, Queen of Heaven, and St. John XXIII in West Seneca; St. Gabriel in Elma; and St. John Vianney in Orchard Park. In June, Grabowski formally retired from active priestly ministry, but he will continue to serve in a restricted role as a retired priest within the Diocese of Buffalo. The review board concluded that Grabowski’s conduct crossed appropriate social boundaries. However, it did not involve sexual behavior. Bishop Fisher said the decision to permit Grabowski’s limited return was based on the outcome of the investigation and the priest’s completion of corrective measures. Priest Reinstated with Restrictions After Placed on Administrative Leave for 'Inappropriate, nonsexual behaviors'

As the new academic year approaches, students across New York State will return to schools offering free breakfast and lunch for all, regardless of family income. The move comes after Governor Kathy Hochul approved a state budget in May that allocates $340 million to expand access to school meals. Under the new policy, all public school districts, charter schools, and non-public schools that participate in the federal school lunch and breakfast programs must now provide meals at no cost to every student. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 2.7 million children across the state. “Kids can’t learn on an empty stomach,” Governor Hochul wrote in a recent post on social media. She added that offering free school meals “just makes sense.” Public reaction to the announcement has been mixed. Supporters praised the move as a common-sense investment in children’s education and well-being. “Thank you, Governor,” one commenter wrote. “If kids are required to attend school, they should be provided meals while they’re there.” Others, however, voiced concerns about the program’s cost, noting that the funding ultimately comes from taxpayers. “There’s no such thing as a free lunch,” one user remarked. Despite the debate, the policy marks a shift in statewide efforts to combat childhood hunger in schools. Fruit farms, such as those in the towns of Appleton, Burt, Gasport, and Newfane employ Free Breakfast and Lunch Coming to All New York Students This Fall

The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) issued a recall for three cannabis flower products sold at licensed dispensaries across the state, citing improper pesticide testing. According to the OCM, the affected products were manufactured by East End Flower Farm and initially tested by Lexachrom Analytical Laboratory, a facility that is no longer authorized to conduct cannabis testing in New York. Upon retesting one of the product batches, results revealed pesticide levels exceeding the state's allowable limits. Recalled Products: -Secret #9 Flower – 3.5g container, Lot #EE-89-8-001 -Lemon Haze Flower – 3.5g container, Lot #EE-LH-8-001 -Pure Michigan Flower – 3.5g container, Lot #EE-PM-8-001 The products may also have been sold under the brand name “Harvest.” At the time of the recall announcement, no adverse health effects had been reported. However, OCM urges consumers to immediately stop using any of the listed products and return them to the dispensary where they were purchased. Anyone who experiences negative health symptoms after using these products is encouraged to submit an incident report through the state’s online portal. Cannabis Products Recalled in New York Over Pesticide Concerns

Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing 12-year-old girl from Niagara Falls who may be injured and in need of medical care following a possible car accident in Buffalo. Ayanna Love, described as a Black female, 5' 2" inches tall and approximately 135 pounds, was last seen on July 14th in Niagara Falls, according to the Niagara Falls Police Department. Police say Love may have been involved in a car crash in Buffalo on July 15th and reportedly fled the scene on foot. Investigators are concerned she may have sustained injuries during the incident and is in need of medical assistance. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Redmond at (716) 622-9160 or (716) 286-4568, or call the Niagara Falls Police Department directly at (716) 286-4711. Police Searching for Missing 12-year-old Niagara Falls Girl Possibly Injured in Buffalo Crash

SCROLL TO END OF ARTICLE TO WATCH VIDEO A massive and unpermitted party prompted law enforcement to shut down Woodlawn Beach State Park in the late hours of Monday, June 23rd after public safety concerns escalated. New York State Park Police had been monitoring social media activity that promoted an unauthorized gathering at the park. Despite efforts to reach out to and question individuals suspected of organizing the event, crowds still swarmed the beach by the evening. Officials estimated that approximately 1,500 people were in attendance. The large group quickly became unmanageable with reports of alcohol use, physical altercations, and defiance of police directives. In essence, the crowd became rowdy. As tensions rose and multiple fights broke out, authorities decided to close the beach at around 8:40pm to prevent further danger. The situation required support from several neighboring agencies including the New York State Police, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments from Hamburg, Cheektowaga, Evans, Orchard Park, Town of Tonawanda, and West Seneca. One individual was taken into custody during the commotion while others evaded law enforcement. Investigators are continuing to look into the origins of the event and identify those responsible for organizing it. Anyone with tips about the party or information about future unauthorized gatherings is asked to contact New York State Park Police at (716) 278-1777. From Buffalo Street News 716 VIDEO: Violent Crowd of 1,500 Forces Emergency Closure of New York State Park

SCROLL TO END OF ARTICLE TO WATCH VIDEO A massive and unpermitted party prompted law enforcement to shut down Woodlawn Beach State Park in the late hours of Monday, June 23rd after public safety concerns escalated. New York State Park Police had been monitoring social media activity that promoted an unauthorized gathering at the park. Despite efforts to reach out to and question individuals suspected of organizing the event, crowds still swarmed the beach by the evening. Officials estimated that approximately 1,500 people were in attendance. The large group quickly became unmanageable with reports of alcohol use, physical altercations, and defiance of police directives. In essence, the crowd became rowdy. As tensions rose and multiple fights broke out, authorities decided to close the beach at around 8:40pm to prevent further danger. The situation required support from several neighboring agencies including the New York State Police, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments from Hamburg, Cheektowaga, Evans, Orchard Park, Town of Tonawanda, and West Seneca. One individual was taken into custody during the commotion while others evaded law enforcement. Investigators are continuing to look into the origins of the event and identify those responsible for organizing it. Anyone with tips about the party or information about future unauthorized gatherings is asked to contact New York State Park Police at (716) 278-1777. From Buffalo Street News 716 Video of Violent Crowd of 1,500 Forcing Emergency Closure of New York State Park

A massive and unpermitted party prompted law enforcement to shut down Woodlawn Beach State Park in the late hours of Monday, June 23rd after public safety concerns escalated. New York State Park Police had been monitoring social media activity that promoted an unauthorized gathering at the park. Despite efforts to reach out to and question individuals suspected of organizing the event, crowds still swarmed the beach by the evening. Officials estimated that approximately 1,500 people were in attendance. The large group quickly became unmanageable with reports of alcohol use, physical altercations, and defiance of police directives. In essence, the crowd became rowdy. As tensions rose and multiple fights broke out, authorities decided to close the beach at around 8:40pm to prevent further danger. The situation required support from several neighboring agencies including the New York State Police, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, and police departments from Hamburg, Cheektowaga, Evans, Orchard Park, Town of Tonawanda, and West Seneca. One individual was taken into custody during the commotion while others evaded law enforcement. Investigators are continuing to look into the origins of the event and identify those responsible for organizing it. Anyone with tips about the party or information about future unauthorized gatherings is asked to contact New York State Park Police at (716) 278-1777. Violent Crowd of 1,500 Forces Emergency Closure of New York State Park

The motorcyclists that were involved in the crash on July 14th, 2025 at 9:34pm have been identified. The victim of the serious leg injury is 20 year old Braydon Hummel of North Tonawanda. The other two injured motorcyclists are 31 year old Shane Guthrie of North Tonawanda, and 27 year old Kelsey Flury of Niagara Falls. All three continue to recover from their injuries. Investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office into the crash is continuing. ORIGINAL STORY A serious motorcycle accident in Cambria on Monday night left three people injured, including a 20-year-old man who suffered life-threatening injuries and required emergency air transport to Erie County Medical Center. The crash occurred just before 9:30pm on the 4800 block of Cambria Lockport Townline Road. Niagara County sheriff’s deputies arriving on the scene discovered three motorcyclists down on the roadway. According to authorities, the group had been traveling northbound when three motorcycles collided and crashed into a guardrail. Emergency crews, including the Cambria Volunteer Fire Company and Niagara County deputies, provided life-saving aid. A tourniquet was applied to the 20-year-old male victim to control arterial bleeding from a severe leg injury. After being stabilized by paramedics from the Cambria and City of Lockport fire departments, he was airlifted by Mercy Flight to ECMC for further treatment. Two other riders - a 31-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman - were also injured in the crash. Both were transported to ECMC via ambulance for evaluation and treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the accident remains under investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office. No further details have been released at this time. Identities of Three Motorcyclists Injured in Niagara County Crash Released, One with Critical Injuries

A viral claim suggesting that Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen paid off the student loan debt of the entire University of Wyoming Class of 2018 has been making waves online. There's only one problem: there's no truth to it. The rumor first surfaced over the last week on fan pages and unverified sources on platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). One post from a page called The Bills Superfan garnered over 10,000 likes, claiming, “Josh Allen quietly pays off student loan debt for entire University of Wyoming Class of 2018. No cameras. No press run. Just impact — giving dozens of young graduates a debt-free start.” Multiple versions of the story included links to obscure blog sites such as fanhub.cafex.biz and other WordPress-hosted pages, which offered no credible sources, quotes, or confirmation. However, a review of trusted news sources and official outlets has found no evidence to support the claim. Searches across Google, Yahoo, Bing, and DuckDuckGo yielded no articles from legitimate media organizations covering the story. No press release and/or statement from the University of Wyoming, the Bills organization, any individual in that graduating class, or Allen himself has been issued. Our fact-check has identified the story as a work of fiction. The post appears to be part of a common trend where made-up inspirational tales about celebrities doing good deeds are created to drive traffic to ad-heavy websites. That said, Allen does have a track record of philanthropy, just not quite on the scale described in the hoax. In 2022, The Fresno Bee reported that Allen teamed up with ForgiveCo - a public benefit company that purchases and forgives consumer debt - helping individuals free themselves from financial burdens. This real-life partnership was more limited in scope and did not involve wiping out an entire graduating class's student loans. Despite its feel-good appeal, the story about Allen's mass loan forgiveness is a prime example of viral misinformation. Fake Josh Allen Story Claims He Paid Off Entire University of Wyoming Class of 2018’s Student Loans

Canadian rock artist Matthew Good has canceled several upcoming U.S. tour dates, including a highly anticipated performance in Buffalo, citing political concerns tied to President Donald Trump and recent U.S.-Canada relations. Good, known for his ‘90s and early 2000s alternative rock hits such as “Apparitions,” “Load Me Up,” and “Weapon,” was scheduled to perform at the Town Ballroom in Buffalo on Thursday, July 17th. But in a candid message to fans shared online, the singer-songwriter announced he is scrapping his Buffalo stop, as well as concerts in Cleveland and Pittsburgh, saying he “can’t, in good conscience, carry out [his] dates this summer in your country.” “This is not fair to you, and I’m very well aware of that,” Good wrote, “but the truth is, every week that goes by, I have a deeper disdain for what’s going on there politically.” Good’s decision comes amid renewed tension between the U.S. and Canada fueled by controversial trade policies. The singer specifically referenced Canada’s recent decision to abandon its digital services tax (DST), a move many see as a concession to the U.S. government under pressure from the Trump administration. “We’re walking away from approximately two billion dollars in accumulated revenue just to appease Mr. Trump’s government,” Good said, criticizing the Canadian government for backing down during trade negotiations. “I can’t sit silently while our amazing country is bullied into submission.” The digital services tax, implemented last year, targeted online ad sales and e-commerce by major tech firms, many of which are based in the United States. Payments were scheduled to begin this summer, but the plan was quietly shelved amid fears of retaliatory tariffs. Trump recently threatened Canada with a 35% tariff hike in a letter, further straining relations. Good also took issue with the rising costs and increasing uncertainty artists face when touring in the U.S., pointing to inflated visa fees and the possibility of being denied entry despite having the proper documentation. “There’s so much fearmongering now that even after securing a visa, artists worry that if we’ve ever said anything critical about the GOP, we could still be denied entry,” he said. “I end up biting my tongue—and with that, losing what credibility I had to speak up.” “I know this will affect my career in the U.S.,” Good admitted. “But my world has always revolved around political awareness. I’m willing to risk that to speak out.” He went on to express sadness over what he sees as a broader erosion of artistic freedom in the U.S., describing Trump’s political legacy as one that has “bastardized the institution of art and culture.” “I realize that I have approximately .00001% impact on things overall, as this was just a few thousand tickets,” he wrote. “But I can’t stand by and be quiet.” According to the Town Ballroom, all tickets purchased for the canceled Buffalo performance will be automatically refunded at the original point of purchase. Singer Matthew Good Cancels Show in Upstate New York Over Trump

As electric bikes and scooters become increasingly common on New York streets, the state is stepping up its safety and reporting measures. Starting this month, a new law mandates that any crash involving an e-bike or e-scooter that results in injury or death must be officially reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This new requirement is part of New York’s growing focus on regulating the use of electric-powered personal transportation and enhancing public safety. New Crash Reporting Requirements The New York State DMV now requires all drivers, including those operating e-bikes and e-scooters, to submit an MV-104 crash report under specific conditions: (1) If a person is injured or killed (2) If there is property damage over $1,000 (3) If an e-bike or e-scooter is involved This requirement applies regardless of who caused the accident. The DMV has issued detailed guidance on how to properly complete the MV-104 form for e-bike and scooter crashes, including how to document vehicle type, brand, and a narrative of the incident. Failing to file this report can lead to suspension of your driver’s license until the report is submitted. What to Do After a Crash If the crash involves only property damage, drivers must exchange license, insurance, and registration details. However, if damages exceed $1,000, filing the MV-104 report is still mandatory. Do You Need a License to Ride an E-Bike in New York? As of 2025, no license is required to operate an e-bike in New York State, provided the vehicle meets the legal definition: -Maximum motor output of 750 watts -Must have operable pedals -Must fall into one of the three recognized classes: Class 1: Pedal-assist only, no throttle, max speed of 20 mph Class 2: Throttle-assisted, max speed of 20 mph Class 3 (NYC only): Throttle or pedal assist, max speed of 25 mph Age Restrictions for E-Bike Riders State law requires that riders must be at least 16 years old to operate any type of electric bicycle. Is Insurance Required? Currently, e-bike riders are not required to carry insurance in New York State. However, optional insurance policies are available. Riders are encouraged to stay informed of evolving regulations to ensure they stay safe and legal while enjoying the ride. New York Rolls Out New E-Bike Safety Law as Summer Traffic Grows

Grief and a desire for justice filled the courtroom Tuesday as family members of two murdered women confronted the reality of a long-awaited trial. Richard Fox, a 62-year-old Niagara Falls resident, appeared in court for a pre-trial conference, facing two counts of second-degree murder in connection with the deaths of Marquita Mull and Cassandra Watson. Their bodies were discovered in shallow graves near a trail in Chautauqua County in 2021. Mull’s sister, Wendy Mull, was among the loved ones who gathered to demand accountability. “Richard, you did it. Just admit it and take your punishment,” she said outside the courtroom to WIVB News 4. “You’ve caused so much pain for so many families. We’re grieving, and that pain doesn’t end.” Wendy has committed to being present at every court appearance, not only for her sister but for other families who may have been impacted. “He didn’t just take Marquita,” she said. “He stole others too.” She was referencing not only Mull’s death but the subsequent discovery that Watson’s remains were also located nearby. According to investigators, in late March 2024, human remains were found in the basement of Fox’s former home in Niagara Falls, adding further weight to suspicions of his involvement in additional homicides. “He’s a monster,” Wendy said. “I’ve feared from the beginning that this wasn’t the end of it.” Fox, who was apprehended on January 7th by Niagara Falls Police and the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force, initially faced charges related to failing to register as a sex offender. Fox has pleaded not guilty. State Supreme Court Justice Susanne Maxwell Barnes has scheduled jury selection in the case to begin on October 2nd. If convicted on both murder charges, Fox could face up to 50 years to life in prison. Cassandra Watson who vanished in Buffalo sometime around 2003 or 2004. Authorities say Fox and Watson were romantically involved and lived together at the time of her disappearance. Her remains were located on September 26, 2021, just a day before Mull’s body was found off the same trail in Chautauqua County. The case surrounding Watson’s death had gone cold for nearly two decades until the dual discovery of the two sets of remains brought new momentum to the investigation. At a press conference, Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane confirmed that both women were likely strangled and later transported from Buffalo to Chautauqua County. While Fox had no known connection to Mull, Keane explained that she entered Fox’s vehicle willingly before being killed. Fox has a disturbing criminal past. In 1993, he was convicted of third-degree rape involving a 14-year-old girl and received a sentence of 18 months to 3 years in prison. More than a decade later, in 2005, he was convicted of attempted rape and aggravated sexual abuse of a 42-year-old woman in Buffalo and sentenced to 15 years. He is classified as a Level 3 sex offender - the highest risk level - indicating a strong likelihood of reoffending. Authorities continue to search for additional victims. Keane has urged the public to come forward with any information related to Fox’s past. Investigators note that Fox grew up just a short distance from the area where both women’s bodies were recovered. Fox is currently being held without bail. As the legal process moves forward, the victims’ families remain determined to see justice served. “I’ll keep showing up,” Wendy Mull said. “Not just for my sister, but for anyone else he’s hurt.” Loved Ones Seek Justice as Niagara Falls Man Faces Murder Charges in Deaths of Two Women

A Buffalo man has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision, after fatally stabbing his girlfriend during a domestic argument, according to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office. The incident occurred on November 4th, 2022, inside a home on Cambridge Avenue. Prosecutors say 69-year-old James L. Allen became involved in a heated argument with his girlfriend, 44-year-old Yashika Page. During the altercation, Allen grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed Page. A young male who was also present intervened, leading to an additional struggle in which the youth sustained a hand injury. Allen was initially arrested and charged with multiple offenses including second-degree assault, third-degree assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and second-degree harassment. His bail was set at $25,000. Page was rushed to Erie County Medical Center where she remained hospitalized for several days. She died from her injuries on November 11th. The following day, Allen was formally arraigned on a second-degree murder charge and remanded without bail. In January 2025, Allen accepted a plea deal and admitted guilt to first-degree manslaughter. He was sentenced this week as part of that agreement. Man Sentenced for Fatally Stabbing Girlfriend During Argument

A Buffalo Police Officer with a documented pattern of misconduct has been cited by the New York State Attorney General’s Office following a comprehensive review of citizen complaints. Officer Justin Ayala, 39, is the third Buffalo officer in less than a year to be formally cited for repeated abuse of authority by the Law Enforcement Misconduct Investigative Office, a watchdog agency created after the 2020 death of George Floyd. Between October 2021 and August 2023, Ayala was the subject of 14 complaints from different individuals. State investigators examined five of those cases in detail, concluding that Ayala repeatedly used excessive force and engaged in other inappropriate behavior. Incidents included punching a man held by other officers, pepper-spraying a handcuffed woman in a patrol car, and verbally berating a teenage girl and her mother during a domestic dispute response. Despite the troubling findings, Ayala remains employed by the Buffalo Police Department, earning over $113,000 last year, nearly $50,000 of which was in overtime pay. The Attorney General’s report also criticized the department’s internal investigations, highlighting that in multiple cases officers exonerated Ayala without reviewing key body camera footage. One of the most troubling cases involved a 2020 arrest on Halloween in which Ayala and four other officers - Daniel Carson, Patrick Kinsella, Matthew Serafini, and Stephen Lesniak - pinned and beat Andy Ocasio, who was filming an unrelated arrest at a party. According to a federal lawsuit and body-camera footage, Ayala punched Ocasio in the head twice while he was held down resulting in a fractured eye socket and a traumatic brain injury. Ocasio now suffers from vision impairment and PTSD. While police charged him with resisting arrest and drug possession, the case was later dropped. The AG’s report determined that Ayala’s actions violated department policy and both federal and state constitutional protections. Officials concluded that Ocasio did not exhibit behavior that justified force under BPD’s definitions, which require aggression such as physical attacks or threats. Further scrutiny of Ayala’s record uncovered additional misconduct. In May 2023, during a response to a domestic altercation between a mother and daughter, Ayala was recorded using profane language toward the teenage girl and her mother before physically throwing the teen to the ground. The department labeled the incident as “other,” avoiding a misconduct designation and instead issued a minor corrective action. The report also cited three other episodes in 2023 and 2024. These included Ayala’s one-day suspension in June 2023 for mishandling body camera protocol and obstructing an accident investigation, the pepper-spraying of a handcuffed detainee in July, and the deactivation of his camera during an unconstitutional frisk at a traffic stop in August 2024. The Attorney General’s Office has issued five recommendations to the Buffalo Police Department including mandatory retraining and further disciplinary action against Ayala. The office also urged that an Internal Affairs supervisor be assigned to directly monitor Ayala, that his misconduct be considered during evaluations, and that the department revise its use of the ambiguous “other” classification when investigating officers. The department has until September 18th to formally respond to the AG’s findings. Meanwhile, Ayala remains on active duty, and neither the department, the mayor’s office, nor the police union has issued a public statement regarding the case. Police Officer Maintains $113k Job After Multiple Misconduct Findings

A serious motorcycle accident in Cambria on Monday night left three people injured, including a 20-year-old man who suffered life-threatening injuries and required emergency air transport to Erie County Medical Center. The crash occurred just before 9:30pm on the 4800 block of Cambria Lockport Townline Road. Niagara County sheriff’s deputies arriving on the scene discovered three motorcyclists down on the roadway. According to authorities, the group had been traveling northbound when three motorcycles collided and crashed into a guardrail. Emergency crews, including the Cambria Volunteer Fire Company and Niagara County deputies, provided life-saving aid. A tourniquet was applied to the 20-year-old male victim to control arterial bleeding from a severe leg injury. After being stabilized by paramedics from the Cambria and City of Lockport fire departments, he was airlifted by Mercy Flight to ECMC for further treatment. Two other riders - a 31-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman - were also injured in the crash. Both were transported to ECMC via ambulance for evaluation and treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the accident remains under investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office. No further details have been released at this time. Three Motorcyclists Injured in Niagara County Crash, One Airlifted with Critical Injuries

A Niagara Falls man has been sentenced to 40 years in state prison following his conviction for the fatal shooting of Gregory Vincent in June 2023. Niagara County Court Judge John Ottaviano imposed the maximum sentence on 39-year-old Juan Ubiles, who was found guilty by a jury in May on charges of second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. The deadly encounter occurred on the 2000 block of 18th Street on June 19th, 2023. Surveillance footage from a nearby convenience store played a pivotal role in the case, capturing both video and audio of Vincent’s desperate attempt to flee as Ubiles pursued him and opened fire. The jury, composed of eight women and four men, deliberated for just 55 minutes before returning a unanimous verdict. Ubiles took the stand during his trial and offered a narrative rooted in longstanding personal conflict with Vincent. He claimed the two had a fraught history that including violent altercations stretching back over a decade. Ubiles testified that Vincent had once been in a relationship with his wife and fathered a child with her, and that he and another man had physically attacked him years earlier. According to Ubiles, this history created years of anxiety and tension whenever he encountered Vincent. He recounted an earlier 2010 incident in which he drove past Vincent’s residence and fired shots at him, his wife, and their children. That event triggered a chaotic high-speed chase and a shootout, though no injuries were reported. He described experiencing a “blackout” during both that event and the later shooting, saying he “took the law into my own hands.” Ubiles further claimed that on the day of the shooting, he was at a store near 18th Street and Niagara Avenue when he saw Vincent arrive. He said his intent was to question Vincent, but alleged that fear overwhelmed him, leading to another blackout where the fatal confrontation unfolded. However, First Assistant Niagara County District Attorney Doreen Hoffmann challenged that version of events in court. Using the store surveillance footage, Hoffmann presented a contrasting account, describing Ubiles as the aggressor. She asserted that Ubiles confronted Vincent, provoked him to exit his vehicle, then shot him at close range before chasing him down the street. During cross-examination, Hoffmann asked Ubiles if he had threatened Vincent before firing. He admitted to saying, “I’m gonna put you in the dirt.” The video presented during the trial showed Ubiles approaching Vincent’s vehicle, raising a firearm, and firing two shots as Vincent tried to escape. Additional gunshots were heard as the chase continued. After the shooting, Ubiles is seen walking back along 18th Street toward Niagara Avenue. He was pronounced dead at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center after responding officers from the Niagara Falls Police Department found Vincent lying in a nearby driveway with multiple gunshot wounds to the chest. Niagara Falls Man Receives 40 Year Prison Sentence for 2023 Murder of Gregory Vincent

A longtime staple of Niagara Falls' Little Italy on Pine Avenue is reeling after a weekend fire left Michael’s Restaurant with significant damage and uncertainty about its future. For over three decades, Michael Capizzi followed a familiar routine each night, securing the restaurant his family operated since 1966. But on Saturday night, that routine was upended when a fire broke out just an hour after he closed the doors. When Capizzi arrived back at the restaurant, flames and smoke filled the sky and firefighters from the Niagara Falls Fire Department were working urgently to contain the blaze. The fire, which officials believe began in the kitchen at the back of the building, prompted a full-scale response. Crews entered through two rear entrances to battle the flames inside the structure. Thankfully, the fire was brought under control before it could completely destroy the property. Capizzi, watching helplessly as the fire unfolded, later visited the fire stations involved to personally thank the responders. Many of the firefighters who fought to save the building had personal ties to the business. Some were former employees, others long-time patrons. Two responders were treated for heat-related exhaustion but returned to duty shortly afterward. The aftermath of the fire left the Capizzi family and staff in a state of disbelief. Damage is estimated at $150,000, and while the cause is still under investigation, the impact is already deeply felt. Capizzi always cherished his team and the local community. After all, the restaurant has been a fixture in the neighborhood for nearly 60 years. With the building now damaged and operations paused indefinitely, the future remains uncertain, though Capizzi has said giving up is not an option. Discussions among family members are ongoing, but the commitment to recovery is reportedly strong. Community support has poured in, including from neighboring business La Hacienda Restaurant. The Satarian family, whose establishment sits right next door, expressed their concern and solidarity, offering any help needed during this difficult time. “It’s a sad day for Pine Avenue and our local restaurant community. We are still shocked and in disbelief at the fire that took place right next door to us at Michael’s. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our neighbors of many years, the Capizzi family and staff. If anything is needed we are here for you guys. Somehow we were lucky enough to not sustain any damage to our building and will be able to OPEN for business as usual. Please keep the Michael’s family and staff in your prayers as they navigate through this horrible situation. We’d also like to acknowledge the NFFD and other first responders for their quick response and swift action to contain the fire. Thank You.” With overwhelming support from the community, Capizzi is focused on moving forward. Michael’s Restaurant Looks to Rebuild After Devastating Fire on Pine Avenue

A Buffalo woman is facing a felony assault charge after attacking a deputy at the Erie County Holding Center earlier this month, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced Thursday. Dominique D. Tabb, 37, has been charged with one count of second-degree assault following a July 6th incident where she is accused of punching, kicking, and stomping a correctional deputy just after 11am. The injured deputy was transported to a hospital for treatment. Tabb was in pre-trial custody at the time for two prior assaults on law enforcement officers. One incident occurred on January 12th near Highmark Stadium after a Buffalo Bills game. Deputies say Tabb struck a sheriff’s deputy with her vehicle after refusing to obey traffic commands, placing several pedestrians in danger. She tried to flee, but her vehicle became trapped in traffic, allowing deputies to arrest. In a separate incident on June 8th, Tabb was arrested on Brunswick Boulevard for criminal mischief, harassment, and child endangerment. During that arrest, she allegedly bit a Buffalo police officer’s wrist. “These repeated assaults on law enforcement are deeply troubling,” said Erie County Sheriff John Garcia. “All three unions representing our deputies have voiced their concerns, and each has called attention to the dangers posed by reckless legislation like the HALT Act. Change is urgently needed.” Tabb is currently being held without bail. A court date has not yet been set. If convicted of the assault charge, she faces up to seven years in prison. VIDEO Inmate Attacks Guard in Violent Jail Attack

Authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Amherst on Saturday evening during a police response to a domestic disturbance. The incident took place around 5pm at a residence in the 4800 block of Bailey Avenue. According to police, officers encountered an adult male armed with a knife upon arrival. During the confrontation, the suspect allegedly stabbed one of the officers. In response, another officer discharged their firearm, striking the suspect. Both the injured officer and the suspect were transported to ECMC. The officer was treated for stab wounds and later released while the suspect remains in stable condition and in police custody. Amherst Police confirmed that all officers involved were wearing body cameras and the footage is being reviewed as part of the investigation. The names of those involved have not been released. The incident is being investigated jointly by the Amherst Police Department, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Officer Stabbed, Suspect Shot in Domestic Disturbance; Investigation Underway

Photo credit Butch Nocera UPDATE On Saturday July 12 th , at approximately 9:08 pm, Niagara Falls Fire Department responded to an alarm that smoke was coming from Michael’s Restaurant at 3011 Pine Avenue. Crews entered the rear of the building to extinguish the fire. Two firemen were treated for heat exhaustion on the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation; the origin was in the main cooking area. Fire investigators estimated $150,000 in damages. ORIGINAL STORY A fire that broke out Saturday night at one of Niagara Falls’ most cherished restaurants has left Michael’s Italian Restaurant closed for the foreseeable future. Emergency crews responded to the scene at 3011 Pine Avenue around 9pm after reports of heavy smoke and flames. According to Niagara Falls Police and Firefighters, the fire appeared to have originated in the rear of the building near the kitchen area. Crews entered through the back of the property and successfully extinguished the blaze. At least two firefighters were treated by AMR personnel for heat-related exhaustion during the operation. Fortunately, the restaurant had already closed for the night before the fire started and no injuries were reported. While the full extent of the damage has not yet been determined, investigators are continuing to examine the cause of the fire. In the meantime, the restaurant’s owners have announced that they are temporarily closing the business while they assess the situation and begin recovery efforts. On Sunday, owners shared an emotional message with the community via Facebook: To our community: Last night, our beloved restaurant of 61 years experienced a devastating fire. Michael Capizzi started this iconic family restaurant in 1966. While the loss is heartbreaking, we are beyond grateful to the incredible firefighters, emergency personnel and all who responded swiftly and worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire, their work and effort was nothing short of amazing and we are forever grateful. As we begin to process this loss, please know that our thoughts are also with our staff and the community who have supported us for so long. To everyone who has reached out, thank you. Your kind words, memories, and support mean the world to us. Right now, we’re taking time to process everything, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate the emotional days ahead. With gratitude, The Michaels Family Michael’s, a fixture in the Niagara Falls community since the 1960s, is known for its homestyle Italian cuisine. For generations of customers, it has been more than a restaurant, it’s been a part of the community’s identity in Little Italy. As residents express support and share memories on social media, owners say they are grateful for the outpouring of love and will share updates as they move forward. Fire Causes $150,000 in Damages to Michael’s Italian Restaurant in Niagara Falls, Closed Indefinitely

Niagara County is under an Air Quality Health Advisory until 11:59pm today as smoke from ongoing Canadian wildfires continues to drift into the region. Officials warn that conditions may pose health risks due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air. The advisory was issued by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the State Department of Health (DOH). The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to exceed 100, signaling air pollution levels that could impact public health, especially for sensitive groups such as children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. Exposure to fine particulates (PM2.5) may lead to symptoms including coughing, throat irritation, sneezing, shortness of breath, and can exacerbate chronic conditions like asthma or cardiovascular disease. Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity and take precautions to protect their health. Air Quality Alert Issued for Niagara County Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke