LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 9:15pm on January 28th after reports of an armed robbery on the 500 block of 25th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a pizza delivery driver - said that he was robbed at gunpoint by two black males dressed in all black clothing. The black males fled toward Pine Avenue. Several police units responded and immediately began canvassing the area. Police then obtained a visual on the suspects, describing the males as "black" and "short." Police began driving behind the suspects who were seen in an alleyway between 24th and 25th Street. At this point they tried to flee but were unsuccessful. Both suspects were detained and taken into custody. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Pizza Delivery Guy Robbed at Gunpoint in Niagara Falls, Police Arrest Both Suspect

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 1:35am on January 29th after reports of disorderly conduct on the 9000 block of Zito Drive in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller said that the male who resides in apartment 14 - who he made sure to mention is bald - was in the hallway banging on the wall with the handle of an axe. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the white male suspect was taken into custody. There was no mention on the call of any history of mental health calls to this address. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Police Respond to Apartment Building at 1am for Bald Man Banging on Hallway Wall with Axe

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 9:15pm on January 27th after reports of menacing with a weapon on the 400 block of 78th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller and victim told police that her ex-boyfriend came and pointed the beam from a firearm/gun at her forehead. The male was identified as Dustin McCarthy. The victim told police that she had everything on video. After the incident, McCarthy fled the area in a dark grey vehicle with all tinted windows. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the suspected was located. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Boy Comes for Revenge and Points Gun at Ex-girlfriend's Head in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 5:40pm on January 27th after reports of a medical emergency on the 9300 block of Niagara Falls Blvd. in Niagara Falls - the Sands Motel. The 911 caller - who is the motel manager - said that the occupant of room 116 was unresponsive. He attempted to yell to wake him up, but it did not work. The manager told 911 that the occupant was not breathing, nor was he alert whatsoever despite his best efforts to wake him. Emergency medical services responded to the location in addition to police. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Manager at Niagara Falls Motel Reports Possible Dead Body to Police

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 10:25am on January 27th after reports of a medical emergency at the Amazon Fulfillment Center on Lockport Road in Niagara County. The 911 caller said that a male, unknown age, fell approx. 20 feet and was currently choking on blood. The call was deemed ALS priority. Mercy Flight was contacted to see if they could respond, but due to inclement weather they could not fly. However, they had a ground unit that was responding to the location. Shortly after receiving initial information, dispatch received additional information that the male was unresponsive. A further update was relayed that the male's airway was cleared with the assistance of on-site medical personnel from Amazon. The male was transported to a hospital for treatment of severe injuries. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Male Falls 20 Feet at Niagara County Amazon Warehouse and Starts Choking on Blood

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11am on January 25th after reports of a rollover motor vehicle accident on the I-190 near Buffalo Avenue in Niagara Falls. Multiple 911 callers contacted police reporting what they described as an alarming scene involving a woman and multiple young children. The vehicle was said to have been flipped over in the median. Police, fire and medical arrived on scene. The extent of injuries was unknown at the time of the call. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Rollover Crash with Children in Vehicle on I-190 in Niagara Falls

Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging New York families to take advantage of the state’s newly expanded child tax credit as the 2026 tax filing season officially begins. The refundable benefit, known as the Empire State Child Credit (ESCC), can be used to reduce a taxpayer’s bill or be paid out directly as a refund. “The Empire State Child Credit delivers a vital financial boost to New York families,” Hochul said. “Now, after the largest expansion of the credit in New York history, more New Yorkers have access to the credit than ever, which will put money directly in families’ pockets and help make our state more affordable for millions of recipients.” The expansion, enacted last year by Hochul and the State Legislature, significantly increases both the value of the credit and the number of families who qualify. For the 2026 filing season, which covers tax year 2025, eligible households can receive up to $1,000 for each child under age four and up to $330 for each qualifying child between ages four and 16. In Tax Year 2026, the credit for children ages four through 16 will rise again to as much as $500 per child, while families with children under four will continue to be eligible for up to $1,000 per child. The reforms also eliminate a long-standing minimum income requirement that had prevented the poorest families from receiving the full credit. Those households can now access the entire amount as a refund. In addition, the state adjusted the income phase-out rules so that more middle-class families can qualify. While the full credit remains available to married couples filing jointly with incomes up to $110,000, families with higher earnings may now receive partial benefits. Under the new structure, a family of four with one child under four and one child over four and a household income of $170,000, which previously would not have qualified for any credit, can now receive more than $500 per year. State officials estimate that if all eligible New Yorkers claim the expanded benefit, it could reduce child poverty by more than eight percent. The changes are also expected to nearly double the average credit, from $472 to $943 per family. New Yorkers are eligible for the ESCC in 2026 if they are full-year state residents, have at least one qualifying child younger than 17 as of December 31st, 2025, and file a New York State income tax return with a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for themselves and each child claimed. Families can receive the maximum value of the credit if their income is below $75,000 for single filers or heads of household and below $110,000 for those filing jointly. For the lowest-income households, the credit is fully refundable even if no taxes are owed. Those with no income or earnings below $4,000 can still receive the maximum amount by filing a return. Families with slightly higher incomes can also benefit, with the credit offsetting any small tax liability and potentially providing additional cash back. New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for increasing and expanding New York’s Empire State Child Credit. The expanded Empire State Child Credit will provide a much-needed boost to household budgets for millions of families across New York State and will be especially impactful for families with young children who have little or no income. But it’s important that those families know they need to file a New York State income tax return in order to receive the money and that doing so will not impact other benefits they may receive, including SNAP and Medicaid. We will be reaching out to families to make sure they know about this important benefit and ask community partners to do the same.” Receiving the Empire State Child Credit will not affect eligibility for Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, cash assistance, or housing assistance. If families choose to save their refund, it will not count against asset limits for 12 months. The 2026 filing season for Tax Year 2025 opened Monday, Jan. 26. State officials say electronic filing remains the fastest and safest way to submit returns and receive refunds. Many families eligible for the ESCC may also qualify for free filing options through the New York State Tax Department. The expanded child tax credit was a central piece of Hochul’s Affordability Agenda, which also includes middle-class tax cuts, inflation rebate checks that delivered more than $2.2 billion to 8.3 million New Yorkers last year, and universal free school meals aimed at saving families an estimated $1,600 per child. Promotional Content Hochul Touts Major Expansion of New York’s Child Tax Credit as Filing Season Begins

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:42pm on January 24th after reports of an assault with a deadly weapon on the 1100 block of 27th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - who is also the shooter - called New York State Police and told them that he just shot his mother and sister. All units were called to the location in addition to medical. It was unknown at the time of the call the severity of injuries. The suspect told police he shot his mother and sister intentionally. Police responded to the scene. It is believed the male was taken into custody by police. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Niagara Falls Man tells Police 'I just shot my mother and sister'

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 12:17am on January 26th after reports of a violent assault on 8th Avenue in North Tonawanda. Several 911 callers said that they could hear a woman screaming for help inside of a van parked outside of a residence that was rocking side to side. One caller told police that the woman was screaming for at least ten minutes. The caller said she could hear the terror in her voice as the woman screamed. Other callers advised police of similar accounts. However, some included details that the woman could be heard crying in between screams, telling the male to "stop." The incident was treated as an abduction or a sexual assault. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content North Tonawanda Police Police Responded to Abduction or Violent Sexual Assault Inside Van

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11pm on January 23rd after reports of a check the welfare and medical emergency at Walmart on Niagara Falls Blvd. in North Tonawanda. The 911 caller said that a female employee was terminated and immediately began making statements about self-harm. The woman, who was in her 50's, began acting irrationally after her termination. While doing so, she began to make statements about hurting herself. As police arrived, the woman was leaving the store and wandering around outside. The result of the call is unknown. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Woman Threatens Harm After Being Fired at North Tonawanda Walmart

A Buffalo family is turning to the community for help as their 20-year-old daughter fights for her life following a series of medical emergencies tied to a lifelong heart condition. Danielle was born with a complex congenital heart condition known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a diagnosis that has required her to undergo numerous medical procedures and open-heart surgeries throughout her life. Despite enduring significant health challenges since birth, her resilience and strength has served as a source of inspiration for her younger siblings, Scarlette and Nolan. In recent weeks, Danielle’s condition worsened after she began experiencing dangerous drops in oxygen levels and irregular heart rhythms, which led to hospitalizations at Oishei Children’s Hospital and later at Golisano Children’s Hospital. Doctors determined that her heart disease had progressed to the point that she would need a heart transplant. In the meantime, her medical team planned to adjust her medications and schedule a defibrillator surgery in an effort to stabilize her condition and delay the need for an immediate transplant. She was also placed on the donor transplant list. Only days after learning she would require a new heart, Danielle suffered a major stroke, went into cardiac arrest, and began experiencing seizures. Emergency surgery was performed to remove a clot from her brain. The extent of any permanent brain damage remains unknown. Her family has been told that she will require three to six months of rehabilitation and therapy to recover from the stroke in addition to continued treatment for her congenital heart condition. A GoFundMe page set up by Danielle’s aunt describes the emotional and financial toll the crisis has taken on the family, noting that Danielle is currently hospitalized and under intensive care. “Our family is facing an unimaginable medical crisis, and we are asking for support during this overwhelming time. Danielle is a daughter, a granddaughter, a cousin, a girlfriend, a friend who happened to be born with a complex congenital heart condition. She has already endured more than most people face in a lifetime. Recently, she suffered a major stroke, went into cardiac arrest, and required emergency surgery to remove a clot from her brain. She is currently hospitalized and under intensive care. Despite everything, there have been signs of hope. She has opened her eyes, responded to her mom, and is able to move most of her body. We are holding onto these moments while understanding that the road ahead will be long, uncertain, and filled with ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and difficult decisions.” The fundraiser explains that the mounting costs include ICU care, surgeries, future rehabilitation, travel expenses, and lost income as Danielle’s parents remain by her side. “The financial burden of this crisis is already significant and continues to grow—hospitalization, ICU care, surgeries, future rehab, travel expenses, and time away from work for her parents and caregivers. We are raising funds to help relieve some of this pressure so the family can focus fully on what matters most: supporting Dee through her recovery and being present every step of the way. If you are able to donate, share, or keep Danielle in your thoughts and prayers, our family would be deeply grateful. Every act of kindness means more than we can express. Thank you for standing with us during this incredibly difficult time. With gratitude, Jessica & Family” Danielle’s parents, Josh and Lindsey, have remained at her bedside around the clock while relatives and friends help care for her younger siblings. The family says they are clinging to every sign of progress as they prepare for a long and uncertain road ahead. Those who wish to help Danielle and her family can find the link here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hope-and-healing-for-danielles-recovery Promotional Content 20-year-old Buffalo Woman Suffers Stroke, Cardiac Arrest While Awaiting Heart Transplant

A New York State trooper was injured Thursday night after being struck by a pickup truck while assisting a stranded driver on the I-90 exit ramp in West Seneca. State Police said the crash happened around 10pm where the trooper had stopped to help a disabled motorist. As the trooper stood outside his patrol car, a 2020 Ford pickup driven by James J. Stumpf, 34, of Buffalo, came onto the ramp from Route 400 and veered off the left shoulder. The truck traveled into an embankment and hit the trooper. The injured trooper was taken by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center where he received treatment and was later released. Troopers said Stumpf was given field sobriety tests and a preliminary breath test at the scene, both of which showed signs of alcohol impairment. A follow-up breath test at the State Police barracks in Buffalo recorded a 0.06% blood alcohol content. Investigators also had a State Police drug recognition expert examine Stumpf who observed indicators consistent with recent drug use. Stumpf was charged with driving while ability impaired (DWAI), felony vehicular assault, and several traffic violations. He is scheduled to appear in West Seneca Town Court on February 17th. The crash remains under investigation. Promotional Content New York State Trooper Injured After Drunk Driver Hits Him on Thruway

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 6pm after reports of a serious motor vehicle accident on the 1000 block of 17th Street in Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls Police, fire and medical responded to the scene after reports of a motor vehicle accident. According to the audio, one individual was extricated from a vehicle and transported by ambulance to Mount St. Mary's for emergency medical treatment for a head injury. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Serious Motor Vehicle Accident in Niagara Falls Leads to Extrication from Vehicle and Hospitalization

Dante Richardson, a violent felon who is currently under investigation by the Buffalo Police Department, per sources, is in the news again as there has been an update in a shooting he was involved with on January 12th. Publicly available information regarding the incident outline that Richardson and his two passengers had been driving home from a bar in Buffalo, although at this time it still remains to be seen whether Richardson was drinking himself. Investigators say that somewhere between the Vulcan Street and Sheridan Drive/Kenmore Avenue exits on the I-190 a dark-colored vehicle pulled alongside the Impala and fired multiple rounds into the driver’s side door. Police documented three bullet holes along the left side of the vehicle, with two rounds entering just below the door handle and a third penetrating near the front edge of the rear driver’s side door. Richardson was struck two times in the legs. Richardson later told authorities that he began losing feeling in his legs, prompting his girlfriend to climb over him to take control of the vehicle and drive to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Richardson never moved from his seat. 911 was called on their way to the hospital and police met them at the hospital. Officers secured the vehicle and recovered a bullet from the roadway before turning the evidence over to the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Once inside the hospital, Richardson reportedly refused to cooperate with law enforcement and told officers to leave––a decision that created questions as to Richardson’s own involvement in the incident. Richardson declining to cooperate was also reported by the Niagara Gazette. Last week, Niagara Action reported that Richardson reportedly changed his mind and began cooperating with authorities to identify the suspect, according to a source familiar with the investigation. Niagara Action was told the suspect was not a random individual, but rather someone who was at the same bar as Richardson. The circumstances still remain unclear, although the suspect is, according to this source, a known drug dealer. Richardson's connection with this drug dealer - if any - is unknown at this time. However, Richardson has now continued to perpetuate false claims regarding the identity of the shooter and who, or whom, was behind it. In an article written last week by an online publication, Richardson publicly pointed the finger at two individuals - one an individual and the other a corporation - as conspiring to kill him. This, according to sources familiar with the investigation by New York State Police, is a lie. It is not being taken seriously and neither are persons of interest. Per source, Richardson's statements are now is being looked at by law enforcement and/or the Erie County District Attorney's Office as falsely reporting an incident under section 240.50 of the New York Penal Code. Further concerning is that there are individuals perpetuating these false claims on social media who, according to sources, could be investigated for aiding and abetting Richardson. Niagara Action is aware of one individual who is actively being monitored by law enforcement for such statements. Given Richardson's criminal history, sources are not surprised with his lack of candor. In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. As the District Attorney's Office stated after the jury verdict, " Richardson claimed that he was never inside the victim’s residence when arrested by the police. At trial, Richardson proposed an alternative 'theory of defense' testifying that he had permission to enter the home from a former tenant; that he was simply collecting his friend’s belongings; and that the prosecution had 'blown this out of proportion.'  The jury quickly saw through the defendant’s lies, as evinced by their 1½ hours of deliberations, which included lunch." The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole, where he remained under supervision until 2023. Richardson's tenuous relationship with the truth was on display recently with his termination from Buffalo Biodiesel earlier this month. Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, on January 10th. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign. Richardson fabricated his work history, the degree to which you be the judge: Starting in February 2007 (age 13) , Richardson worked as an “Apprentice” at OLV Human Services. His jobs included the cleaning crew, catering services as a cook and server, prep cook and cashier, and gift shop salesperson.   Starting in June 2008 (age 14) , Richardson was hired as an “Office Manager” at OLV Human Services working FULL TIME for 15 months conducting payroll for all the youth employees.   Starting in June 2009 (age 15) , Richardson participated in an internship at M&T Bank under the direct supervision of Vice President Paul Collins.   Starting in June 2010 (age 16), Richardson participated in an internship at Morgan Stanley under the direct supervision of former Senior Vice President James Sexton III.  In a phone call to OLV Human Services on January 16th, they confirmed 13-year-olds are not hired by their organization. In a phone call to M&T Bank on January 16th, they confirmed internships are not offered to 15-year-olds.  In a call with Morgan Stanley’s Williamsville Office on January 16th, they confirmed that Morgan Stanley does not accept 16-year-old interns.   Moving forward several years to when Richardson was incarcerated between 2012 and 2020, he listed consistent employment during that time. This includes as an:   Agency Partner (2012 – 2016) MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021) However, it is also important to pay attention to where a few of these jobs occurred after Richardson was released from state prison as he was on parole and required to remain in the area.   MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Blockchain Adviser (2021-2022)  was listed as being in Palo Alto, California. Sr. Business Management Manager (2021-2022)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Founder-in-Residence of Bubble (2022-2023)  was listed as being in New York City, New York.   Niagara Action confirmed from sources at Buffalo Biodiesel that Richardson doubled down on this work history during his interview with the company and that his resume matched information publicly viewable on his LinkedIn profile.   In essence, these sources said that his employment history is “one giant con.”   “He was convincing,” said one source. “We believe in second chances and this is the sort of person who, at least presented himself, as deserving one. He fooled us. Boy did he fool us.”   These sources independently confirmed the falsity of his work history, especially as it came to AI. “He was hired in large part due to his assertions in expertise with AI,” said the source. “As it turned out, he knew nothing about AI except to hand in reports entirely generated by AI in an attempt to pass it as his own.” Promotional Content SOURCE: Law Enforcement Aware Dante Richardson Made False Statements After Thruway Shooting

Two men are now facing multiple murder and conspiracy charges after Niagara County prosecutors unsealed a superseding indictment in connection with a fatal 2024 shooting in Niagara Falls. According to the Niagara County District Attorney’s Office, Marvin E. Porter, 37, and Rojae J. Mitchell, 23, have been charged with Murder in the First Degree, Murder in the Second Degree, and Conspiracy in the Second Degree in the killing of Anthony Brantley. Prosecutors say both men planned the murder together and carried it out in Niagara Falls on August 24th, 2024, as part of a murder-for-hire scheme. In a press release issued Wednesday, District Attorney Brian Seaman said the superseding indictment accuses the defendants of conspiring to kill Brantley and then executing the plan “for payment from Porter to Mitchell.”  In addition to the murder and conspiracy counts, Mitchell also faces a charge of Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Mitchell was captured in Alabama and returned to Niagara County in January of 2025 by members of the Niagara Falls Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service. Porter was arrested more recently after being taken into custody on an arrest warrant in Niagara Falls. Both men appeared in Niagara County Court before Judge Caroline Wojtaszek where they were remanded to the Niagara County Jail. Promotional Content Hit Job Exposed as Two Men Indicted in Niagara Falls Murder-for-Payment Plot

In 2012, a now Niagara Falls resident, then of Buffalo, was arrested and charged with multiple felonies for a home invasion that occurred in the City of Buffalo. In 2014, this man was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon after a jury trial. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. The defendant was incarcerated while awaiting trial. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, the defendant and an accomplice repeatedly threatened the female victim's life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole where he remained under supervision until 2023. The defendant's name? Dante Richardson. Richardson recently applied and was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel for a sales director position. When applying for a sales director job at Buffalo Biodiesel, Dante Richardson purported to have various degrees and work experience relevant and required for the position. Once it was discovered this was a lie, he was terminated. However, that was not all he lied about. According to a source in the company and a document obtained by Niagara Action, Richardson also put on his application when discussing his criminal history that he was a "youthful offender (YO)." YO is a special legal status that can be granted to certain defendants who were between 16 and 18 years old at the time of an offense, allowing the court to replace a criminal conviction with a non-criminal adjudication. The idea is to give people a secnd chance by avoiding lifelong consequences of a criminal record for a single mistake. When someone is adjudicated a YO, the case is sealed and it does not count as a criminal conviction for most purposes, including employment and housing background checks. However, the record is still accessible to courts and law enforcement. Below is the portion of his application where Richardson wrote he was granted YO status. Richardson writing that he was afforded youthful offender status as a teenager The problem? It was a lie. Richardson was not granted YO status by Erie County Court in 2014, which is not only evidenced by his prison term but also a background check conducted by Buffalo Biodiesel, per sources. Information on Richardson's termination from Buffalo Biodiesel, details of a pending criminal investigation into Richardson, and Richardson's purported fabricated education and work history can be found below:   Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, on January 10th. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign.   Dante Richardson is currently under investigation by the Buffalo Police Department for engaging in a scheme to defraud, grand larceny, and a threat made after being fired by Buffalo Biodiesel, according to sources at the company.   Between his hiring date and termination, Richardson was purportedly paid north of $12,000 from Buffalo Biodiesel. The company seeks to recoup the money, arguing it was taken under false pretenses via deception to get wages without intending to ever do the job, nor ever actually performing services. These facts led Buffalo Biodiesel to file a criminal complaint against Richardson with the Buffalo Police Department for fraud, which Buffalo Biodiesel says is actively being investigated. The Buffalo Police Department is also investigating the threat made after Richardson was terminated while being escorted out of the building. According to a source familiar with the situation, the staff member who walked him out was told by Richardson, referring to his violent criminal history, to "leave me alone and look me up [to see what I've done]." Dante Richardson has fabricated his work history: Starting in February 2007 (age 13) , Richardson worked as an “Apprentice” at OLV Human Services. His jobs included the cleaning crew, catering services as a cook and server, prep cook and cashier, and gift shop salesperson.   Starting in June 2008 (age 14) , Richardson was hired as an “Office Manager” at OLV Human Services working FULL TIME for 15 months conducting payroll for all the youth employees.   Starting in June 2009 (age 15) , Richardson participated in an internship at M&T Bank under the direct supervision of Vice President Paul Collins.   Starting in June 2010 (age 16), Richardson participated in an internship at Morgan Stanley under the direct supervision of former Senior Vice President James Sexton III.  In a phone call to OLV Human Services on January 16th, they confirmed 13-year-olds are not hired by their organization. In a phone call to M&T Bank on January 16th, they confirmed internships are not offered to 15-year-olds.  In a call with Morgan Stanley’s Williamsville Office on January 16th, they confirmed that Morgan Stanley does not accept 16-year-old interns.   Moving forward several years to when Richardson was incarcerated between 2012 and 2020, he listed consistent employment during that time. This includes as an:   Agency Partner (2012 – 2016) MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021) However, it is also important to pay attention to where a few of these jobs occurred after Richardson was released from state prison as he was on parole and required to remain in the area.   MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Blockchain Adviser (2021-2022)  was listed as being in Palo Alto, California. Sr. Business Management Manager (2021-2022)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Founder-in-Residence of Bubble (2022-2023)  was listed as being in New York City, New York.   Niagara Action confirmed from sources at Buffalo Biodiesel that Richardson doubled down on this work history during his interview with the company and that his resume matched information publicly viewable on his LinkedIn profile.   In essence, these sources said that his employment history is “one giant con.”   “He was convincing,” said one source. “We believe in second chances and this is the sort of person who, at least presented himself, as deserving one. He fooled us. Boy did he fool us.”   These sources independently confirmed the falsity of his work history, especially as it came to AI. “He was hired in large part due to his assertions in expertise with AI,” said the source. “As it turned out, he knew nothing about AI except to hand in reports entirely generated by AI in an attempt to pass it as his own.” Promotional Content Felon Fakes Youthful Offender Status to Get Job for Crime Where he Victimized Woman

A Niagara Falls Army veteran who survived war, cancer, and decades of hardship is now starting over after a house fire destroyed everything he owned and claimed the life of his best friend. Robert, 76, a Vietnam War veteran and Niagara Falls resident, lost his home, possessions, and beloved German shepherd in a January 11th fire. The blaze left him hospitalized for several days and facing the daunting task of rebuilding his life from nothing. The fundraiser describes a lifetime of adversity that Robert has already endured. “Robert, a proud Army veteran, has survived many hardships in his life. He served in the Vietnam War and later battled cancer caused by exposure to Agent Orange. He has been through unimaginable tragedy,” lamented the post. The fire, which occurred earlier this month, wiped out nearly everything he owned. His dog, Lady – described as his closest companion – did not survive. “At the age of 76, Robert is faced with another hardship, A devastating house fire took everything from him—his home, his belongings, and his beloved German shepherd, Lady, who was his best friend and constant companion,” the fundraiser reads. Although Robert escaped the blaze alive, the aftermath has been overwhelming. After spending five days hospitalized, he was discharged with no home, no clothing, and no possessions. “Miraculously, Robert survived the fire and after 5 days in the hospital he is now left with nothing and must start over from scratch. We are reaching out for help to support Robert as he starts over. If you could please donate or share this fundraiser, anything will help. Your kindness and support mean the world to us,” concluded the GoFundMe. Robert’s daughter, Marysa, echoed the plea for help in a Facebook post, asking the community to rally around her father. “My father Robert from Niagara falls is a Vietnam veteran. He just lost his entire home his dog and all of his belongings to a house fire on 1/11. After 5 days in the hospital he is left with nothing. Just wondering if you would be so kind to share this or keep us in mind. Thank you,” she wrote. Friends and family say Robert’s story is one of resilience, noting that he previously survived both combat service and cancer linked to Agent Orange exposure. Now, they hope the community will help him rebuild once again. At the time of this article, only $505 has been raised. We hope that this number increases dramatically. A link to the number can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-robert-vietnam-veteran-after-house-fire Promotional Content Niagara Falls Veteran Left with Nothing After Deadly House Fire

Dante Richardson, a violent convicted felon who ran for Niagara County Legislature and lost in 2025, has recently been the subject of a series of investigative pieces by Niagara Action. In those articles, this publication has uncovered that Richardson's entire public image has been, at least in part (you can decide to what degree), a lie. Before diving into his betrayal of public trust while campaigning to represent the residents of Niagara Falls, below is a recap of what we have learned so far: Dante Richardson is a violent, convicted felon.   In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole in 2022, where he remained under supervision until 2023.   When applying for a sales director job at Buffalo Biodiesel, Dante Richardson purported to have various degrees and work experience relevant and required for the position. Once it was discovered this was a lie, he was terminated.   Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, on January 10th. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign.   Dante Richardson is currently under investigation by the Buffalo Police Department for engaging in a scheme to defraud, grand larceny, and a threat made after being fired by Buffalo Biodiesel, according to sources at the company.   Between his hiring date and termination, Richardson was purportedly paid north of $12,000 from Buffalo Biodiesel. The company seeks to recoup the money, arguing it was taken under false pretenses via deception to get wages without intending to ever do the job, nor ever actually performing services. These facts led Buffalo Biodiesel to file a criminal complaint against Richardson with the Buffalo Police Department for fraud, which Buffalo Biodiesel says is actively being investigated. The Buffalo Police Department is also investigating the threat made after Richardson was terminated while being escorted out of the building. According to a source familiar with the situation, the staff member who walked him out was told by Richardson, referring to his violent criminal history, to "leave me alone and look me up [to see what I've done]." Dante Richardson has fabricated his work history: Starting in February 2007 (age 13) , Richardson worked as an “Apprentice” at OLV Human Services. His jobs included the cleaning crew, catering services as a cook and server, prep cook and cashier, and gift shop salesperson.   Starting in June 2008 (age 14) , Richardson was hired as an “Office Manager” at OLV Human Services working FULL TIME for 15 months conducting payroll for all the youth employees.   Starting in June 2009 (age 15) , Richardson participated in an internship at M&T Bank under the direct supervision of Vice President Paul Collins.   Starting in June 2010 (age 16), Richardson participated in an internship at Morgan Stanley under the direct supervision of former Senior Vice President James Sexton III.  In a phone call to OLV Human Services on January 16th, they confirmed 13-year-olds are not hired by their organization. In a phone call to M&T Bank on January 16th, they confirmed internships are not offered to 15-year-olds.  In a call with Morgan Stanley’s Williamsville Office on January 16th, they confirmed that Morgan Stanley does not accept 16-year-old interns.   Moving forward several years to when Richardson was incarcerated between 2012 and 2020, he listed consistent employment during that time. This includes as an:   Agency Partner (2012 – 2016) MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021) However, it is also important to pay attention to where a few of these jobs occurred after Richardson was released from state prison as he was on parole and required to remain in the area.   MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Blockchain Adviser (2021-2022)  was listed as being in Palo Alto, California. Sr. Business Management Manager (2021-2022)  was listed as being in New York City, New York. Founder-in-Residence of Bubble (2022-2023)  was listed as being in New York City, New York.   Niagara Action confirmed from sources at Buffalo Biodiesel that Richardson doubled down on this work history during his interview with the company and that his resume matched information publicly viewable on his LinkedIn profile.   In essence, these sources said that his employment history is “one giant con.”   “He was convincing,” said one source. “We believe in second chances and this is the sort of person who, at least presented himself, as deserving one. He fooled us. Boy did he fool us.”   These sources independently confirmed the falsity of his work history, especially as it came to AI. “He was hired in large part due to his assertions in expertise with AI,” said the source. “As it turned out, he knew nothing about AI except to hand in reports entirely generated by AI in an attempt to pass it as his own.” Deceiving the Public and Failure of the System to Allow it to Happen When running for county legislature, Richardson came within 200 votes of winning, which given what we have learned is a frightening prospect. An ex-con who conned the public, Richardson deceived the those he sought to represent when he ran. When the Niagara Gazette referred to him as the republican endorsed candidate, he did nothing to correct them despite not being endorsed by the Niagara County Republican Party, a fact Niagara Action has confirmed. 2025 General Election Results On his website, Richardson glosses over being in prison as a teenager –– buried in the last paragraph of his "About Me" section. He gives no details of what that meant. However, he also is disingenuous in his description as the majority, as in more than 95%, of his prison term was in his 20's. He was arrested at age 18 in 2012 and convicted/sentenced in 2014. Richardson was only out of prison for about three years when he decided to run for the Niagara County legislature, and only discharged from parole since 2023. Excerpt from Niagara Gazette article dated October 31st, 2025, referring to Dante Richardson as the Republic endorsed candidate. This is oddly similar to the lie he told at Buffalo Biodiesel on his employment application when he wrote that he was sentenced as a youthful offender for a gun charge, an obvious lie as he was 18 when the crime was committed. Apart from his publicly available LinkedIn which voters no doubt viewed to see his experience and educational history, he also used deceptive graphics alluding to a Stanford education, as we have included below. This goes along with the information we provided above about his assertion to Buffalo Biodiesel that he has a graduate degree from Stanford, or "Standford" as he wrote it on the application. Post from Dante Richardson's personal Facebook page As you can see, he deliberately used a graphic from Stanford stating "Graduate School of Education," of which he never attended. Niagara Action did not cover the General Election, but shame on the local media for not doing their homework on Richardson. This information was not hard to find or difficult to piece together, despite his attempts to put on a façade. Our next article will focus on Richardson's purported assertion to Buffalo Biodiesel that he was a youthful offender when sentenced in 2014.   Promotional Content Dante Richardson Deceives Public During Failed Campaign for Niagara County Legislature

The Buffalo-Niagara community is coming together to support the family of longtime firefighter and business owner Scott Janowski, a Buffalo Fire captain who died unexpectedly leaving behind his wife and a 3-year-old son. To help ease the financial effort facing the family, friends and loved ones launched a fundraising effort. A tribute posted with the fundraiser describes Janowski as a lifelong public servant, devoted father, and small business owner who dedicated himself to helping others through his work with the BFD and as the owner of Wet Paws Painting and Wallpaper. The message reads: “Honoring Scott Janowski — Supporting his family left behind. Scott Janowski spent his life serving others. As a Buffalo Fire Captain, Scott ran toward danger when others ran away. As the owner of Wet Paws Painting and Wallpaper, he built something with his own hands and treated every client like family. As a husband, father to a beautiful 3 year old boy, friend, and neighbor, he showed up for people, always with a smile, always without hesitation, and never expecting anything in return. Scott was the kind of person who gave without keeping score. He helped quietly. He lifted people up. He carried burdens that weren’t his to carry. He loved sunsets on his boat, living life fully, and making the people around him laugh. To the outside world, Scott was always smiling. Strong, reliable, capable, dependable. What many of us didn’t see was that he was hurting inside. Scott gave everything he had to this community. Now it’s our turn to show up for his family. Scott leaves behind his wife and his 3-year-old son. This fund is being created to help provide immediate financial stability for Scott’s wife, with time to grieve without financial pressure, and to secure his son’s future, including education, childcare, and opportunities Scott would have wanted for him. Every dollar raised goes directly toward helping Scott’s family move forward — one day at a time — with dignity, support, and love. Scott served Buffalo and the surrounding community every single day of his life. He protected strangers, helped friends, supported small businesses, and gave generously of his time, energy, and heart. He never asked for help. He never made it about himself. If Scott ever helped you, made you laugh, or showed up when you needed someone or something, this is our moment to give back. Please consider donating, sharing this page, and surrounding Scott’s wife and son with the same love and support Scott gave to all of us. Let’s honor his life not just with words, but with action. Thank you for being part of this and for serving those who served us. All funds will be transferred directly and transparently to his wife's name or son's name.” The fundraiser was organized by one of Janowski’s closest friends, Ryan Kanowski, who said he stepped in to coordinate the effort after speaking with others who knew and loved Janowski. Friends and family members have comments saying that if you know the Janowskis, you can be assured that the funds will be treated with care, integrity, and respect of your hard-earned dollars. They would never be misused,” said Kanowski. “Please consider donating as a way to honor Scott. He would donate to you,” said Kanowski. The tribute closes with a final line capturing how many friends and colleagues remembered him: “A MAN WHO GAVE SO MUCH OF HIMSELF TO EVERYONE AROUND HIM.”   Donations are being accepted through HelpScott.org where organizers say all proceeds will go directly to Janowski’s wife and son to provide stability and support during the months ahead. Promotional Content Community Rallies to Support Family of Buffalo Fire Captain Scott Janowski After His Death

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 2:50pm on January 16th after reports of an assault on the 400 block of 22nd Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller and victim said that she, along with her daughter, were "about to be jumped" by two females. The caller then hung up. Police continued to try getting the complainant back on the phone but the call kept being disconnected. After she answered and stayed on the line, police could hear an active physical altercation in the background with someone sounding as if they were being seriously injured. The two suspects were described as white females. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the either of the suspects were arrested. The extent of injuries sustained are unknown at this time. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Police Listen Over Phone as Woman and her Daughter are Attacked in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 12:45am on January 17th after reports of an assault on the 400 block of 22nd Street in Niagara Falls, NY. The 911 caller - a third party - said that a black male with a face tattoo and a white female were fist fighting in the front yard. The male then threw a tricycle at her. During the altercation, the female could be heard screaming for help. A different caller - also a third party - then reported that the black male had a machete and was attempting to hack at the woman. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested or if the woman sustained any injuries. Although the police audio states the incident happened in Newfane, the corresponding address relayed over the audio is in Niagara Falls. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Black Male Tries to Slice Up White Woman with Machete in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement responded to the 300 block of 71st Street around 10pm on January 17th after reports of menacing with a weapon in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller reported a landlord-tenant dispute where her landlord Jane Smith was inside her home with a weapon that "looks like a pitchfork." The victim told police that she feared for her life and that the landlord was threatening to hurt her. However, the underlying reason for the altercation is unknown at this time. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the landlord was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Landlord Forces Way Into Tenant's Apartment with Pitchfork in Niagara Falls

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Niagara Falls Police were pursuing a suspected stolen vehicle around 11:30am on January 18th. It was not relayed on the police audio once it started how long the chase was already in progress. The vehicle crashed out in the snow by the golf course and at least three occupants bailed out and began to flee on foot. The vehicle was all the way in the golf course. They were fleeing in the direction of Porter Road through the woods. One suspect was apprehended, and then police said that a second was taken in custody. Police could be heard yelling for the suspect to get down. Police could be heard communicating in real time to find tracks of the remaining two suspects. After finding tracks, police were able to detain one additional suspect. One suspect remained at this point at this point. It is unknown if the fourth was located. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Suspects Flee through Woods After Crashing Stolen Vehicle in Snow, Appended by Niagara Falls Police

Dante Richardson, a failed County legislative candidate and convicted felon, has recently been in the news as the victim of a shooting where he sustained two gunshot wounds to the leg while driving on the I-190 during the early morning hours of January 12th. Sources say Richardson and his two passengers were returning home from a bar, though it remains unclear whether Richardson had been drinking himself. Investigators say that somewhere between the Vulcan Street and Sheridan Drive/Kenmore Avenue exits a dark-colored vehicle pulled alongside the Impala and fired multiple rounds into the driver’s side door. Police documented three bullet holes along the left side of the vehicle, with two rounds entering just below the door handle and a third penetrating near the front edge of the rear driver’s side door. Richardson was struck two times in the legs. Richardson later told authorities that he began losing feeling in his legs, prompting his girlfriend to climb over him to take control of the vehicle and drive to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Richardson never moved from his seat. 911 was called on their way to the hospital and police met them at the hospital. Officers secured the vehicle and recovered a bullet from the roadway before turning the evidence over to the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Once inside the hospital, Richardson reportedly refused to cooperate with law enforcement and told officers to leave––a decision that created questions as to Richardson’s own involvement in the incident. Just two days before the shooting, Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign. In order to fully understand the lengths Richardson went to effectuate his fraudulent conduct, you need to understand his criminal history. In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole, where he remained under supervision until 2023. Curiously, the time that Richardson alleged to have studied at the University of Rochester aligns with when he was incarcerated. Between his hiring date and termination, Richardson was purportedly paid north of $12,000 from Buffalo Biodiesel. The company seeks to recoup the money, arguing it was taken under false pretenses via deception to get wages without intending to ever do the job, nor ever actually performing services. These facts led Buffalo Biodiesel to file a criminal complaint against Richardson with the Buffalo Police Department for fraud, which Buffalo Biodiesel says is actively being investigated. The Buffalo Police Department is also investigating the threat made after Richardson was terminated while being escorted out of the building. According to a source familiar with the situation, the staff member who walked him out was told by Richardson, referring to his violent criminal history, to "leave me alone and look me up [to see what I've done]." After his termination, Richardson has since deleted and/or deactivated his LinkedIn which contained the false information relating to his educational history. It is still deleted/deactivated as of the time this article is being published. UPDATE: As of 9pm on January 14th after this article was published, Richardson reactivated his LinkedIn. You can now see his purported education yourself. However, this is not where the Richardson story ends. In addition to fabricating his education, he also fabricated his work history, which will be the subject of out next story. Buffalo Biodiesel did not officially provide any comment on the record. Anyone should be presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Promotional Content Dante Richardson of Niagara Falls Under Criminal Investigation for Defrauding Employer by Faking Education

Dante Richardson, 32-years-old, has been the subject of several recent Niagara Action articles that began after he was shot in an early morning incident on January 12th. Publicly available information regarding the incident outlined that Richardson and his two passengers had been driving home from a bar in Buffalo, although at this time it still remains to be seen whether Richardson was drinking himself. Investigators say that somewhere between the Vulcan Street and Sheridan Drive/Kenmore Avenue exits on the I-190 a dark-colored vehicle pulled alongside the Impala and fired multiple rounds into the driver’s side door. Police documented three bullet holes along the left side of the vehicle, with two rounds entering just below the door handle and a third penetrating near the front edge of the rear driver’s side door. Richardson was struck two times in the legs. Richardson later told authorities that he began losing feeling in his legs, prompting his girlfriend to climb over him to take control of the vehicle and drive to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Richardson never moved from his seat. 911 was called on their way to the hospital and police met them at the hospital. Officers secured the vehicle and recovered a bullet from the roadway before turning the evidence over to the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Once inside the hospital, Richardson reportedly refused to cooperate with law enforcement and told officers to leave––a decision that created questions as to Richardson’s own involvement in the incident. Richardson declining to cooperate was also reported by the Niagara Gazette. Now, Richardson has reportedly changed his mind and is cooperating with authorities to identify the suspect, according to a source familiar with the investigation. Information obtained by Niagara Action suggests that the suspect was not a random individual, but rather someone who was at the same bar Richardson was at prior to departing. The circumstances still remain unclear, although the suspect is, according to this source, a known drug dealer. Richardson's connection with this drug dealer - if any - is unknown at this time. State Police do have a suspect who was, according to this source, at the same bar as Richardson that night. Richardson has had involvement and/or associations with shady characters in the past. In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole, where he remained under supervision until 2023. Niagara Action will provide updates as they become available. Promotional Content SOURCE: Dante Richardson Working with State Police to Identify Shooter from Buffalo Bar

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:20pm on January 14th after reports of an assault with a weapon at 7-Eleven on the 8100 block of Niagara Falls Boulevard in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller - a third party - stated that a suspect was assaulting someone with a crowbar. The two males then moved from 7-Eleven into the Pine Plaza near Family Dollar. A physical altercation continued in that location. The suspect was described as a white male wearing a brown coat. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the suspect was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Suspect Beats Victim with Crowbar at Niagara Falls 7-Eleven

Niagara Action recently began an investigative series into failed Niagara County legislative candidate Dante Richardson who, by all accounts, is not who he holds himself to be publicly. Let’s recap what has been reported thus far:   Dante Richardson is a violent, convicted felon.   In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole in 2022, where he remained under supervision until 2023.   When applying for a sales director job at Buffalo Biodiesel, Dante Richardson purported to have various degrees and work experience relevant and required for the position. Once it was discovered this was a lie, he was terminated.   Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, on January 10th. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign.   Dante Richardson is currently under investigation by the Buffalo Police Department for engaging in a scheme to defraud, grand larceny, and a threat made after being fired by Buffalo Biodiesel, according to sources at the company.   Between his hiring date and termination, Richardson was purportedly paid north of $12,000 from Buffalo Biodiesel. The company seeks to recoup the money, arguing it was taken under false pretenses via deception to get wages without intending to ever do the job, nor ever actually performing services. These facts led Buffalo Biodiesel to file a criminal complaint against Richardson with the Buffalo Police Department for fraud, which Buffalo Biodiesel says is actively being investigated. The Buffalo Police Department is also investigating the threat made after Richardson was terminated while being escorted out of the building. According to a source familiar with the situation, the staff member who walked him out was told by Richardson, referring to his violent criminal history, to "leave me alone and look me up [to see what I've done]."   Niagara Action has now analyzed Richardson’s work history as outlined on his publicly available LinkedIn work history, of which we have included a PDF here for your review. This work history is not embellished but contains what we believe many falsehoods and impossibilities. This includes the following (for reference, Richardson’s DOB is 6/28/1993):   Starting in February 2007 (age 13) , Richardson worked as an “Apprentice” at OLV Human Services. His jobs included the cleaning crew, catering services as a cook and server, prep cook and cashier, and gift shop salesperson.   Starting in June 2008 (age 14) , Richardson was hired as an “Office Manager” at OLV Human Services working FULL TIME for 15 months conducting payroll for all the youth employees.   Starting in June 2009 (age 15) , Richardson participated in an internship at M&T Bank under the direct supervision of Vice President Paul Collins.   Starting in June 2010 (age 16), Richardson participated in an internship at Morgan Stanley under the direct supervision of former Senior Vice President James Sexton III.  In a phone call to OLV Human Services on January 16th, they confirmed 13-year-olds are not hired by their organization. In a phone call to M&T Bank on January 16th, they confirmed internships are not offered to 15-year-olds.  In a call with Morgan Stanley’s Williamsville Office on January 16th, they confirmed that Morgan Stanley does not accept 16-year-old interns.   Moving forward several years to when Richardson was incarcerated between 2012 and 2020, he listed consistent employment during that time. This includes as an:   Agency Partner (2012 – 2016) MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021)   However, it is also important to pay attention to where a few of these jobs occurred after Richardson was released from state prison as he was on parole and required to remain in the area.   MusicTech Strategist (2017-2021) was listed as being in New York City, New York. Blockchain Adviser (2021-2022) was listed as being in Palo Alto, California. Sr. Business Management Manager (2021-2022) was listed as being in New York City, New York. Founder-in-Residence of Bubble (2022-2023) was listed as being in New York City, New York.   Niagara Action confirmed from sources at Buffalo Biodiesel that Richardson doubled down on this work history during his interview with the company and that his resume matched information publicly viewable on his LinkedIn profile.   In essence, these sources said that his employment history is “one giant con.”   “He was convincing,” said one source. “We believe in second chances and this is the sort of person who, at least presented himself, as deserving one. He fooled us. Boy did he fool us.”   These sources independently confirmed the falsity of his work history, especially as it came to AI.   “He was hired in large part due to his assertions in expertise with AI,” said the source. “As it turned out, he knew nothing about AI except to hand in reports entirely generated by AI in an attempt to pass it as his own.”   Richardson ran a campaign for legislator in Niagara County and held himself out to Niagara Falls voters purporting these claims about him to be true. Are they? Are they not? You can decide based on the information we have provided.   What Richardson failed to tell Niagara Falls residents during his campaign for Niagara County legislator will be the topic of our next article. Buffalo Biodiesel would not comment on the record for this story. Promotional Content Failed Niagara County Legislative Candidate Dante Richardson Fakes Work History to Gain Employment, According to Local Business

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 10:30am on January 16th after reports of a domestic incident on Chilton Avenue in Niagara Falls involving a weapon. The 911 caller and victim stated that a Stephen Nickerson pulled a knife on her earlier. She was able to get away from him, but that they were currently arguing. When she called 911, the male attempting to flee the apartment. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Steven Nickerson Allegedly Threatens Woman with Knife During Niagara Falls Domestic

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 11:40am on January 16th after reports of an armed robbery at 9001 Niagara Falls Boulevard in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller said that overnight his phone and wallet was taken by a male and wallet who was carrying a machete. Once entering the motel room, the suspect threatened the victim with the machete, causing him to fear for his life. The manager of the motel told police that he had surveillance footage of the suspect. Police responded to the scene and were provided with a description of the suspect. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Suspect Threatens to Kill Victim with Machete During Armed Robbery at Niagara Falls Motel

A Buffalo man has been sentenced to the maximum allowable prison term after repeatedly stalking a victim and defying orders of protection in North Tonawanda. Justin Rehan, 33-years-old, was sentenced on January 15th to a term of 4 to 12 years in prison by Niagara County Court Judge Caroline Wojtaszek. Rehan pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree criminal contempt stemming from repeated violations of an OOP. The case began in August 2024 when the NTPD received a complaint alleging stalking behavior. The department’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) launched an investigation, which led to Rehan’s arrest on stalking and other charges. After his arrest, North Tonawanda City Court issued an order of protection for the victim. Despite the OOP, Rehan violated the order on several occasions times. Each violation resulted in additional criminal charges for contempt. As a result, Rehan was eventually remanded to the Niagara County Jail while awaiting resolution of the case. The victim was issued a final order of protection that will safeguard her after Rehan is released from prison. Promotional Content Stalker Given Maximum Prison Term in North Tonawanda Contempt Case

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 4:30am on January 11th after reports of a medical emergency on Witmer Road in the City of North Tonawanda. Police were requested to the location for a welfare check. The 911 caller said that an 84-year-old male was making suicidal comments and that he had a knife in the bathtub. Police responded to the scene and prevented what could have been a tragic outcome. If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or call 911 if you are in immediate danger. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content North Tonawanda 84-year-old Threatens Harm with Knife in Bathroom

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 12:30am on January 11th in the area of Stenzil and Oliver Street in North Tonawanda for a brawl outside of Ryan's bar. According to multiple 911 calls with sceraming and yelling in the background. The calls detailed possible weapons threatened and people on the ground being stomped on. The specific amount of people is unknown, but injuries were confirmed. Police and medical responded to the scene. It is unknown how many arrests took place. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Multiple People on the Ground Being Stomped During Brawl at Local Bar in North Tonawanda

Is it a coincident the same day news breaks that a criminal investigation is ongoing by Buffalo Police into Dante Richardson that he states in an interview he is going to Houston for an unspecific amount of time? On January 14th, the Niagara Action published an article titled “Dante Richardson of Niagara Falls Under Criminal Investigation for Allegedly Defrauding Employer by Faking Education.” That article outlined a multi-facetted investigation underway by the Buffalo Police department into Richardson’s conduct. The relevant portion of that article can be found below: Richardson was fired from his employment at Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business that operates throughout the Northeast collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, on January 10th. According to multiple sources in the building who witnessed the termination, it was done with cause after an "outburst" with a "threat being made while being escorted out of the building by staff," according to a witness. When Richardson was hired at Buffalo Biodiesel in December of 2025, he represented to the company – in writing – that he had various degrees. According to sources in the company, this included a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester that was mentioned in his LinkedIn and a Master’s in Business Administration from Stanford University. As a result, he was purportedly hired at a salary north of $125,000. Niagara Action confirmed through sources who viewed documents, one of which was publicly available on Richardson’s own LinkedIn profile, and the other written on his application, showing that he indeed purported to have these two degrees. But there’s one problem––records show he does not have any degrees. According to a source at Buffalo Biodiesel who conducted a search through the National Student Clearinghouse, Richardson does not have a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester, nor does he have any degree whatsoever from Stanford. In fact, just to make sure they weren’t making a mistake, the company asked Richardson to sign a release for the Registrar’s office at Stanford to release transcripts––which they say he refused to sign. In order to fully understand the lengths Richardson went to effectuate his fraudulent conduct, you need to understand his criminal history. In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. He fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. The Judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being released on parole in 2022, where he remained under supervision until 2023. Curiously, the time that Richardson alleged to have studied at the University of Rochester aligns with when he was incarcerated. Between his hiring date and termination, Richardson was purportedly paid north of $12,000 from Buffalo Biodiesel. The company seeks to recoup the money, arguing it was taken under false pretenses via deception to get wages without intending to ever do the job, nor ever actually performing services. These facts led Buffalo Biodiesel to file a criminal complaint against Richardson with the Buffalo Police Department for fraud, which Buffalo Biodiesel says is actively being investigated. The Buffalo Police Department is also investigating the threat made after Richardson was terminated while being escorted out of the building. According to a source familiar with the situation, the staff member who walked him out was told by Richardson, referring to his violent criminal history, to "leave me alone and look me up [to see what I've done]."  In an article written by an online publication published on January 14th, Richardson was interviewed regarding a shooting that he was allegedly a victim of in the early morning hours of Monday, January 12th, where an unknown individual – of whom there is already a person of interest by New York State Police – shot him multiple times in the leg on the New York I-190. In the interview on January 14th, Richardson stated that he was leaving the area, saying, “I’m going to Houston to heal up. . .” Richardson is not from Houston, nor has he ever lived in Houston according to a background check. Before moving to New York, he was a resident of Connecticut and still holds a Connecticut license, according to sources. Sources further indicate that this Connecticut license was used during his application process to Buffalo Biodiesel. An attorney familiar with the investigation believes that charges are imminent against Richardson due to the clear-cut nature of his actions and documents provided/publicly available by Richardson to “perpetuate his fraud." “There is more than just his lies about a bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Stanford,” said the attorney. “There is also a work history publicly viewable on his LinkedIn full of lies and deceptions. One example was working as a 'Business Office Manager' at the age of 15; Another working as a 'summer intern' at M&T Bank at age 16. Apart from the several jobs he had on the outside world while incarcerated, he says he worked at Morgan Stanley as a 'Summer Intern' at age 17 ' under the direct supervision of former Senior Vice President James Sexton III,' which never happened." Buffalo Biodiesel would not provide comment. Richardson’s work history will be the focus of our next article. Promotional Content Richardson Fleeing to Houston Amid Criminal Probe into Fraud to Gain Employment at Buffalo Business?

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 8pm on January 10th after reports of an assault with a dangerous weapon on the 1300 block of D'Angelo Drive in North Tonawanda, Niagara County. The 911 caller said that he was "struck in the head multiple times" - in addition to other places on his body - with a frying pan of some sort. The size of the pan, as well as if it was cast iron or not, was not disclosed. The severity of his injuries are unknown, as were the circumstances surrounding the incident. However, it was referred to as a domestic incident. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the female suspect was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Man Beaten with Frying Pan During Domestic Incident in Niagara County

After five terms representing the people of New York State Assembly District 145, Assemblyman Angelo Morinello today announced he will not seek reelection, marking the conclusion of a decade of public service dedicated to community engagement, responsive constituent services and bipartisan cooperation. “It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve the residents of the 145th Assembly District,” Morinello said. “From Grand Island to The Town of Porter, Niagara Falls, Lewiston, Cambria, Wheatfield, and everywhere in between, I have always believed that public service means being present, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people we represent.” Throughout his time in the Assembly, Morinello built a reputation as a hands-on legislator with a strong focus on constituent services—helping families navigate state agencies, advocating for veterans and seniors, supporting local businesses and working closely with community organizations, first responders and municipal leaders. His office was consistently recognized for its responsiveness and effectiveness on behalf of residents. Morinello also emphasized his commitment to bipartisanship, noting that meaningful progress often comes from cooperation rather than division. “I have always worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver results for our district,” he said. “Whether it was public safety, infrastructure, economic development or quality-of-life issues, I believed then—as I do now—that collaboration is essential to good government.” As part of his announcement, Morinello formally endorsed Rebecca Wydysh to succeed him as assemblymember for the 145th District. “Rebecca Wydysh brings energy, integrity and a deep commitment to our community,” Morinello said. “She understands the needs of this district and shares my belief in accessible representation, strong constituent services and practical, bipartisan leadership. I am confident she will be an outstanding advocate for our region in Albany.” Morinello expressed gratitude to his family, staff, local leaders and constituents. “This role has never been about one person—it has been about service. I am deeply thankful for the trust placed in me over the past five terms, and I look forward to continuing my involvement in the community in new ways.” Promotional Content Angelo Morinello Announces Retirement, Endorses Rebecca Wydysh as Successor

Governor Kathy Hochul is proposing a significant reshaping of Niagara Falls State Park with plans to bring Whirlpool State Park and Devil’s Hole State Park under the same umbrella in an effort to spread tourism beyond the Falls. The idea, she said, is to encourage visitors to stay longer in the region. The proposal, outlined in Hochul’s State of the State booklet released Tuesday, comes as state data continues to show a stark imbalance in where tourists spend their time. Niagara Falls State Park attracts roughly 9 million visitors each year, while nearby attractions just outside its boundaries draw a fraction of that number. The Aquarium of Niagara, for example, sees slightly more than 200,000 visitors annually despite being only steps away from the park’s northern edge. Tour groups and individual travelers tend to cluster around iconic attractions such as Goat Island, the Maid of the Mist boat tour, and the Cave of the Winds, leaving other attractions and experiences overlooked. This is in sharp contrast to the Canadian side of the falls where the attractions on Clifton Hill were strategically placed to benefit directly from the falls and do so at a high rate. Her State of the State booklet describes the plan as a way to create a “seamless corridor of breathtaking overlooks, historic sites and world-class hiking opportunities.” The governor’s office says the goal is to better connect visitors to destinations such as the Aquarium of Niagara and the Underground Railroad Heritage Center, which sits roughly midway between Niagara Falls State Park and Whirlpool State Park. The proposal would extend Niagara Falls State Park northward along the eastern shore of the Niagara River, effectively linking three parks that already form a roughly five-mile vertical line along the gorge. Niagara Falls State Park sits at the southern end where the river makes its dramatic turn over the Falls. Whirlpool State Park lies about two and a half miles north and Devil’s Hole is another mile and a half beyond that. Both Whirlpool and Devil’s Hole are known for breathtaking views of the Niagara Gorge, steep stairways to the river’s edge, and close-up views of the Niagara rapids. According to the governor’s office, the expanded park footprint would add approximately two miles of multi-use hiking trails and improve access to natural and cultural attractions. Officials say the changes are intended to “promote longer tourism stays” and increase visitor spending. “As a native of Western New York, no one understands the majesty of Niagara Falls and its economic impact as a world-class tourist destination more than I do,” Hochul said. “This will benefit not just those who visit, but all Western New York residents by creating a seamless corridor of breathtaking overlooks, historic sites, and world-class hiking opportunities.” Although the park consolidation is part of Hochul’s broader 2026 agenda, she did not mention it directly during her State of the State address. What the idea does not address, however, is the lack of excitement that currently exists among the New York side of the falls in terms of attractions for tourists to experience. Compared to the Canadian side of the falls, it is sorely lacking. Expanding Niagara Falls State Park along the Niagara Gorge along empty unoccupied space would simply exacerbate an already glaring problem. Niagara Falls State Park, established in 1885 as the first state park in New York, spans roughly 400 acres and was the most visited state park in New York in 2024, drawing more than 9.5 million visitors. Tourism remains a major economic driver in the region; visitors to Niagara County spent an estimated $1.163 billion in 2024 and the tourism industry accounted for more than 22% of the county’s workforce. The park hosts major attractions such as the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, the Niagara Scenic Trolley, and the 230-foot Observation Tower. Whirlpool State Park, which opened in 1928, covers 109 acres overlooking the Niagara Whirlpool and recorded 453,643 visitors in 2024. Devil’s Hole State Park, established in 1924, encompasses 42 acres near Niagara University and the Niagara Power Project and drew 357,807 visitors last year. Both parks currently offer free access. Promotional Content Hochul Proposes Expanding Niagara Falls State Park to Encompass Whirlpool, Devil’s Hole

Local businessman, community leader and Niagara Falls Board of Education member Russ Petrozzi today announced he will run for Niagara County Legislator this November in the 5th district. The seat is currently held by Legislator Chris Robins, who announced he will not seek re-election. Petrozzi plans to seek the Republican and Conservative lines. “I have a long career in serving this community and I want to continue doing that as a legislator where I think I can have a significant, positive impact for the people of Niagara Falls and the Town of Niagara,” said Petrozzi.  “Chris Robins is a good friend and has done a great job for our community.  I would like to continue that.” Petrozzi is the long-time Vice President of Capitol Cleaners, a company founded by his family.  The company is long-known for its community involvement, in particular the “Coats 4 Kids” campaign it ran each year.  Petrozzi has also served on a Niagara Falls Board of Education, having first been elected in 2000.  He has served on numerous community boards including the Niagara USA Chamber and Empower Niagara (formerly United Cerebral Palsy Association of Niagara County) and received several awards for his efforts. “I love this community and have dedicated much of my life to trying to make it better,” said Petrozzi.  “I want to serve in the Legislature because local government is about working together to get things done, not partisanship.  Legislator Robins is a Democrat and I am a Republican but we share a very similar approach to government and the issues.” Petrozzi said if elected he wants to explore ways to strengthen the ties between county government and localities in a way that results in equal or better services at lower costs. He also wants to be part of the county’s efforts on brownfield revitalization to turn former industrial sites back to productive use. “As a small businessman, I know firsthand how the affordability crisis is impacting the community and the fact is we cannot ask people to keep paying more,” said Petrozzi.  “We need to look for new ways to deliver for taxpayers and we need to grow our tax base.  That has to be our focus.” Promotional Content Local Businessman and Community Leader Russ Petrozzi Announces Run for County Legislator

A "Niagara Falls man" wounded in an early morning shooting on the New York State Thruway remains at the center of an investigation filled with bizarre statements and unanswered questions as law enforcement pieces together what actually happened. Niagara Action was first to identify the shooting  victim as 32-year-old Dante Richardson, a former failed legislative candidate for the Niagara County Legislature. Richardson suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his legs and has since been released from the hospital. The shooting occurred shortly after midnight as Richardson was driving northbound on the I-190. He was operating a Chevy Impala with a female passenger seated in the front, referred to as his girlfriend. At some point between the Vulcan Street and Sheridan Drive/Kenmore Avenue exits a dark-colored vehicle reportedly pulled alongside Richardson’s car and fired multiple shots into the driver’s side door of Richardson's vehicle. According to sources, Richardson and his passengers were on their way home from a bar. It is unknown if Richardson was intoxicated. Investigators documented three bullet holes along the left side of the Impala, including two rounds that entered below the driver’s side door handle and another penetrating near the front edge of the rear driver’s side door. Richardson was struck multiple times in the legs. Richardson later told authorities that he began losing sensation in his legs at which point his girlfriend climbed over him to continue driving the car toward Niagara Falls. During that time, 911 was called to report the shooting. However, this information has already prompted suspicion due to the space available for two people to fit on the driver’s side of the vehicle as Richardson allegedly never moved. Niagara Falls police officers were already at the hospital when the Impala arrived around 1am. Officers encountered Richardson and two passengers, neither of whom were injured. Hospital staff brought Richardson inside for treatment. He was later transferred by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center. Before New York State troopers arrived, Niagara Falls police secured Richardson’s vehicle and noted the visible bullet damage. A bullet was also recovered from the roadway near the car. The vehicle and evidence were later turned over to the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation who have assumed control of the case. Once at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, Richardson reportedly refused to cooperate with law enforcement and told them to leave-a questionable decision for someone who purports to be the victim of a crime. However, this is not surprising given Richardson’s history with law enforcement. In 2014, he was convicted in Erie County Court of first-degree burglary, first-degree robbery, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon for a violent home invasion that occurred in Buffalo in 2012. He is considered a violent felon under New York's penal code. Prosecutors alleged the home invasion was both calculated and violent. Once inside the home wearing masks and armed with a loaded .32 caliber pistol, Richardson and his accomplice Wielbon repeatedly threatened the victim’s life while demanding money. One allegation was that the gun was forced into the woman's mouth, breaking at least one of her teeth. Richardson fled the residence when Buffalo Police arrived, escaping $10 in cash and a bag of condoms. On April 4th, 2014, Judge Case sentenced him to 10 years in state prison. Richardson ultimately served eight years of that sentence before being  released on parole, where he remained under supervision until 2023. In their press release, the Erie County District Attorney’s Office joked that after Richardson’s trial the jury, “quickly saw through the defendant’s lies, as evidenced by their 1½ hours of deliberations, which included lunch.” As of now, the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation continues to examine physical evidence, review surveillance and traffic data, and interview any potential witnesses. No arrests have been made at this time. For now, the shooting has left more questions than answers. Promotional Content Violent Felon Dante Richardson Refuses to Cooperate with Police After Curious Shooting

Niagara Falls police assisted New York State Police early Monday morning after a gunshot victim drove to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center (NFMMC) under circumstances that investigators are still working to clarify. Niagara Falls Police were alerted around 1am after a 911 caller reported they were en route to the hospital with a shooting victim following an incident on the New York State Thruway. State troopers were also dispatched to the hospital in response due to the location of the incident. Officers encountered a Chevy Impala stopped outside the hospital and made contact with the male driver, who had suffered gunshot wounds, along with two passengers who were uninjured. Hospital staff brought the driver inside for treatment. The victim has been identified as 32-year-old Dante Richardson. Police said the driver had been shot at multiple times and sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. He was later transported by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center for additional care. Before state troopers arrived, Niagara Falls officers secured the vehicle and noted three visible bullet holes along the driver’s side. A projectile was also found in the roadway near the car. Preliminary information provided to police indicates the vehicle was traveling on the Thruway in the Buffalo area when gunfire struck the car with rounds piercing the door and hitting the driver on the left side of his body. The shooting occurred between the Vulcan Street exit and the Sheridan Drive/Kenmore Avenue exit according to a New York State Troopers news release. A vehicle pulled up next to the victim's Malibu and fired multiple shots, at least one of which hit Richardson. He then continued driving to NFMMC. According to a law enforcement source, the driver and both passengers reportedly had left a bar and were traveling to Niagara Falls when the incident occurred. However, many questions remain unanswered as to the circumstances surrounding the incident. The New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation has taken over the case. A motive for the incident remains unclear. Promotional Content Failed Niagara County Legislative Candidate Dante Richardson Shot Driving Home from Bar

On January 8th 2026 at 2246 hours, The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of damaged property in the 6600 block of Royal Parkway South in the Town of Lockport. Shortly after that, Deputies were dispatched to the 100 block of Whispering Pines Drive for the same. Deputies found that for two consecutive nights numerous cars and homes were being egged throughout the Town of Lockport. Egg cartons and other evidence were discarded on the streets and upwards of Twenty (20) homeowners reported damaged their homes and/or vehicles. Neighborhoods included were Royal Parkway South, Village Parkway, Harvest Ridge Way, Jim Kelly Drive, Whispering Pines Drive and Forest Hill Drive.   An investigation led to the arrest of John K. Taylor, an 18-year-old male, Benjamin B. Mckenzie, a 19-year-old male, Peter J. Blake an 18-year-old male and Cain D. Smeal an 18-year-old male, all from the Town of Newfane. They are charged with Criminal Mischief 4th (Misdemeanor) and multiple counts of Criminal Tampering 3rd. (Misdemeanor), and released on Appearance Tickets. Further charges are pending as Deputies continue to follow up with numerous residents. Promotional Content Dozens of Homes, Vehicles Egged in Niagara County Leads to Arrests

Stock Photo LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement observed a male in a red tracksuit walking west on Walnut towards 20th Street who, upon observing police, began running, around 10:30pm on January 2nd in Niagara Falls. He was said to be clutching his waistband. Officers engaged in a chase with the suspect who matched the description from a robbery that occurred shortly beforehand. Police yelled for the suspect to stop, but he did not comply. He began playing with what was in his waistband. All units were called to the location. Supervisors were called to the location for force being used to subdue the suspect. He was placed in custody after use of force. It is unknown if either the suspect or police sustained injuries during the struggle. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Listen as Niagara Falls Police Apprehend Dangerous Robbery Suspect by Force

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 9am on January 5th after reports of an assault on Hyde Park Boulevard. The 911 caller - a third party - stated that Robert McClain punched a woman in the face. He is a cab driver who would not drive away due to the argument, which was taking place outside. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was arrested. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Cab Driver Witnesses Woman's Face Destroyed During Niagara Falls Assault

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW INCLUDING FEMALE OFFICER On January 9, 2026, at approximately 12:30 am, The Niagara Falls Police Department Crash Investigation Unit responded to the intersection of 16 th Street and Cleveland Avenue to investigate a two-vehicle crash involving a marked police cruiser.   A 2014 Ford Fusion, operated by a 49-year-old Niagara Falls man, was traveling north on 16th St., disregarded the stop sign and struck a 2016 Ford Taurus police vehicle that was traveling east on Cleveland Avenue. The impact of the crash spun the police vehicle around. The Ford Fusion struck a telephone pole on the northeast corner of the intersection before striking a parked and unoccupied 2010 Ford F150 truck.   The Ford Fusion was occupied by four people. The male driver and 2 female passengers were taken to ECMC, where they are being treated for apparently non-life-threatening injuries. A male passenger in the vehicle was taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, where he is being evaluated. The female officer was also taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, where she was treated and released for minor head and leg injuries. The driver of the Ford Fusion was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Additional charges are pending. The male passenger was arrested for an outstanding warrant for Felony narcotics possession and intent to sell. Police audio at the time of the accident provided additional details, including that multiple passengers of the Ford Fusion were unresponsive after the crash. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Niagara Falls Officer Struck by Vehicle and Hospitalized, Other Passengers Unresponsive

A Niagara Falls serial killer already convicted in multiple murders has now been tied to a fourth killing—one that has remained unresolved for nearly half a century. Police say Richard Fox, now 62, admitted last year that he killed his grandmother, Beatrice Meabon, at her home on Cain Road in the Town of Brant in 1976, when he was just 13-years-old. Authorities said Meabon was found stabbed inside her home in July 1976 and later died at a hospital. At the time, her death was deemed suspicious, but no arrest was ever made. Fox’s confession surfaced during an expanding homicide investigation that has already connected him to the murders of multiple women across Western New York spanning decades. Police said that as investigators reviewed historic case files and re-interviewed surviving witnesses, they discovered Meabon was Fox’s grandmother and confirmed he had been present at her home on the day she was stabbed. Fox later admitted responsibility for her death. Because Fox was a juvenile at the time and laws in place back in 1976, prosecutors say he cannot be criminally charged in Meabon’s killing. “Although no charges will be filed regarding the murder of Mrs. Meabon, the victim, family and public deserve the truth of what happened 49 years ago,” Brant police said in a statement. “Law enforcement is committed to pursuing justice and holding those accountable, no matter how great the passage of time.” Fox was arrested in January 2025 after investigators linked him to the murders of Marquita Mull and Cassandra Watson, two Buffalo women who disappeared decades apart. Police said Fox admitted to killing both and leaving their bodies off the Chautauqua Rails to Trails path in the Town of Portland. On Monday, December 22nd, Niagara County District Attorney Brian D. Seaman announced an indictment charging Fox Murdering 32-year-old Crystal Curthoys in January 2023, in Niagara Falls. Promotional Content Niagara Falls Serial Killer Linked to Fourth Murder, Killed Grandma when he was Child

A New York Supreme Court Judge issued a sweeping decision this morning dismissing a lawsuit brought by 27 restaurants against Buffalo Biodiesel, rejecting what the court characterized as speculative, conclusory, and legally deficient claims. The rebuke lands squarely on the shoulders of plaintiffs’ counsel, Manhattan attorney Michael Collesano. In a detailed Memorandum Decision, Hon. Michael A. Siragusa, J.S.C., granted Buffalo Biodiesel's motion to dismiss finding that the action should never have been filed in the first place. The court concluded that the lawsuit was barred because it duplicated more than two dozen already-pending cases, failed to plead basic elements of antitrust and fraud claims, and relied on allegations contradicted by evidence and unsupported by facts. At issue in the case is Buffalo Biodiesel, a Buffalo-based business operating in the Northeastern U.S. with over 28,000 suppliers who collect used cooking oil, that sued 27 restaurants who breached contracts for the collection of waste vegetable cooking oil purchase agreements in Erie County Supreme Court. All 27 of those restaurants then attempted to bring a separate, omnibus action accusing Buffalo Biodiesel of fraud, monopolistic conduct, and abusive litigation tactics, all under the direction and advice of Collesano. They are now the plaintiffs in this action. Although the subject for a future story, Collesano found these clients through soliciting them through NYSCEF, which is the New York filing database. This has been the subject of grievances, motion practice, and other court filings. Collesano has recently stated that he charges each of his clients a modest sum of money – anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 – for representation in addition to seeking a contingency fee for any monies recovered. Those familiar with the situation have referred to it as a scheme to increase numbers while providing minimal representation. A grievance has reportedly been filed regarding this issue with the eighth judicial district against Collesano. Collesano and his clients claimed Buffalo Biodiesel filed those related actions “for the primary purpose of enforcing and maintaining its market share,” using what they described as “oppressive litigation against a relatively small damages claim to force settlement and continued business with distant small businesses.” The court disagreed. Judge Siragusa wrote, “the record (primarily, Plaintiffs’ own allegations and exhibits) establishes the Related Actions are the quintessential ‘other action[s] pending between the same parties for the same cause of action in a court of any state …’ (CPLR 3211(a)(5)).” “As such,” the court ruled, “[] the motion to dismiss shall be granted.” In other words, Collesano attempted an end run around dozens of existing cases by filing a new lawsuit that duplicated them. The CPLR expressly prohibit that maneuver. CLICK TO READ PDF DECISION HERE The contract signed by each restaurant, or "Exclusive Waste Vegetable Cooking Oil Purchase & Sale Agreements" as it is referred to by Buffalo Biodiesel, required restaurants to provide all waste vegetable cooking oil exclusively to the company for a 5-year term, automatically renewing unless notice was given to cancel. Buffalo Biodiesel supplied containers, collected the oil, and processed it at a facility in Tonawanda, New York. This was all laid out clearly, in black and white, signed, initialed, and with copies provided to the supplier. Buffalo Biodiesel alleges that the plaintiffs breached those contracts by supplying oil to competitors or various other forms of breaches. Rather than confront those claims directly, the plaintiffs accused Buffalo Biodiesel of not collecting oil, misrepresentations, and etc.. Judge Siragusa rejected all of plaintiffs' allegations outright. The court emphasized that while it must ordinarily accept pleaded facts as true, it is “not required to accept factual allegations, or accord Plaintiffs’ favorable inferences, in those cases where the factual assertions are ‘inherently incredible or flatly contradicted by documentary evidence.’” Plaintiffs also alleged that Buffalo Biodiesel violated General Business Law § 340 – the Donnelly Act – by restraining trade and monopolizing the used cooking oil market. Judge Siragusa. “A plaintiff alleging a claim under GBL Section 340 must identify the relevant product market, allege a conspiracy between two or more entities (that are actually competitors), and allege that the economic impact of that conspiracy was to restrain trade in the relevant market," the court explained. According to Siragusa, Collesano did none of that. “Plaintiffs’ bare bones, conclusory allegations,” the decision states, “(based almost entirely ‘upon information and belief’ without a scintilla of reference to the bases for same) fail to identify a single individual or entity ‘in competition’ with Defendant, much less that such unidentified individual or entity engaged in a conspiracy with Defendant.” In short, the antitrust claim collapsed because it was speculation masquerading as law. The court was equally blunt in rejecting plaintiffs’ fraud and misrepresentation claims. “To allege a cause of action based on fraud,” Siragusa wrote, a plaintiff must plead a false representation, knowledge of falsity, intent to induce reliance, justifiable reliance, and damages. “Here, the alleged fraud is based on the same allegations as Plaintiffs’ breach of contract claim and thus is duplicative of that cause of action," concluded the court. The plaintiffs also “failed to allege fraud with the requisite particularity (CPLR 3016(b)).” The result was total defeat for Collesano and his clients. Collesano had attempted twice to consolidate all 27 related actions, stay discovery, and amend counterclaims. Those efforts failed as well, with a previous judge refusing to even sign an order to show cause. Buffalo Biodiesel's motion requested the court impose $10,000 in sanctions from Collesano as a punishment for his frivolous conduct. Siragusa declined to impose them. According to a source, Collesano's conduct has caused havoc in dozens of proceedings involving Buffalo Biodiesel including, but not limited to, interfering with a default, not complying with ordered discovery, not complying with ordered mediation, court outbursts, ex parte communication with the court, and most recently an admission on the record that he was hired by a competitor of Buffalo Biodesel, which raises all sorts of concerns including collusion, conspiracy, tortious interference of contract, and more. In a comment from a source to Niagara Action given after this article was published, during the previously mentioned proceeding where he sought and was denied class action certification Collesano purportedly "put on a parlor show" by bringing people into the courtroom who looked like "disheveled street people." The source told Niagara Action, "they looked as though Collesano gave each $20 to sit there and pretend to be his office staff." If that is the case, the incident likely warrants being investigated by the Eighth Judicial District as being a fraud on the court. With all this in mind, the decision might not have gone far enough to prevent this conduct from continuing in the future. However, a review of Collesano's financial situation might have played into such a decision. Just months prior, a decision by the Hon. Deborah Chimes rejected Collesano's efforts to certify a class action against Buffalo Biodiesel because of "evidence submitted [] not sufficiently address[ing] or satisfy[ing] [] factors" including financial resources available to prosecute the action. In many ways Erie County Supreme Court is being held hostage by Collesano through his conduct. He has levied multiple complaints against judges that have ruled against him, becoming so serious according to our source that the New York Attorney General became involved. This decision will undoubtedly result in more litigation based on Collesano's own modus operandi and personal vendetta against Buffalo Biodiesel, which is evidence based on most filings — most hundreds of pages repeating the same theories over and over again that read as personal grievances. Attorney Michael Collesano The dismissal adds to a growing list of recent headlines involving Collesano including a defamation lawsuit against a neighbor for comments allegedly made about his manhood and a foreclosure action of his Manhattan home. In the defamation lawsuit, filed on May 11th, 2025, Collesano alleged that Aimee Fink, a neighbor in his condominium complex, launched a campaign to damage his professional reputation and business. The verified complaint chronicled what Collesano described as months of harassment tied to a contentious board election at the Warren House condominium and accused Fink of making defamatory statements, interfering with his business dealings, and disparaging him personally and professionally. However, the heart of his lawsuit centers around a comment levied on January 17th, 2025, where Fink allegedly motioned with her fingers to indicate something small and shouted: “you have a little dick.” Collesano claims the insult was made publicly, witnessed by building staff, and illustrative of a broader campaign of harassment. Niagara Action has not independently verified the claims made in this lawsuit and presents them solely as allegations, which remain unproven unless and until established in court. Two weeks after the January lobby incident, Collesano says he told Fink he intended to sue her. According to the filing, she responded by thrusting her middle finger in his face and calling police. The episode generated an NYPD report but no criminal charges. In September 2025 the Board of Managers of The Warren House Condominium filed suit in the Supreme Court of New York County against attorney Collesano, his wife Mandy Collesano, and PNC Bank, N.A. The action seeks to foreclose a lien against Unit 11F where Collesano both resides and purportedly operates his law practice. According to the verified complaint filed by the Board, Collesano fell significantly behind on his financial obligations to the condominium. As a unit owner, he was required to pay common charges of $981.51 per month, an additional $65 monthly storage fee, and special assessments in the amounts of $285.07 and $1,318.68. According to the complaint, these charges are not optional and they were expressly required under the building’s Declaration, By-Laws, and the New York Condominium Act. The Board alleges that Collesano failed to make the required payments and allowed arrears to accumulate to $18,791.35 as of January 1st, 2025, resulting in a lien being recorded in February 2025. Although he later made a lump-sum payment of $25,000 in April, the lien remained unsatisfied and charges continued to accrue. By the time the lawsuit was filed, Collesano allegedly owed an additional $18,778.53 in unpaid common charges and assessments. The complaint seeks not only recovery of arrears but also foreclosure of the lien on Collesano’s unit. His wife is named to ensure any tenancy rights are terminated while PNC Bank is named because it holds a $125,000 second mortgage that would be wiped out. The unit is further encumbered by a $630,000 first mortgage held by the First National Bank of Long Island. In addition, the Board is requesting the appointment of a receiver to collect rent, reimbursement of sums it may advance for taxes or insurance, and attorneys’ fees projected at $30,000 or more. If successful, the action would result in the sale of Collesano’s unit at auction. Public records show Collesano also has a history of tax liens and financial encumbrances tied to him. These include a $38,847.43 federal tax lien filed in 2009, a $7,307.89 federal tax lien filed in 2010, and a $5,510.49 federal tax lien filed in 2011, along with additional liens recorded through at least 2015, some later released. Collesano is also involved in a defamation case. In May 2025, he and his company, NYC Property Expo, Inc., which also purportedly operates out of his Warren House unit along with his legal practice, filed suit against Elegran LLC and Aimee Fink, a neighbor in the Warren House. Promotional Content Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Against Buffalo Biodiesel Brought by Customers, Embarrasses their Attorney

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 6:30pm on January 6th after reports of a motor vehicle v. pedestrian accident with injuries that occurred in the area of Genesee Street and Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo. The 911 call said that a female was struck and lying in the road. EMS and emergency personnel was called to the scene. According to witnesses at the location, the woman could be heard moaning "help me," but could not move any part of her body. She was bleeding. Police responded to the scene. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Woman Hit by Vehicle Lies Motionless, Bleeding in Road Moaning for Help

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 5:20am on January 7th after reports of a domestic incident with injuries on the 300 block of Oliver Street in North Tonawanda. The 911 caller and victim said that a male punched her in the face "several times" and requested an ambulance for emergency response. The male suspect was identified as a Kuron (spelling not exact) Thomas. When police were called, Thomas was said to be fleeing the location is a blue jacket. She also told police that he strangled her. During the call she was heard screaming in the background, evidencing that he was still there. Police responded to the scene. It is unknown if the male was apprehended. The female received medical treatment, but NA does not have information regarding whether she was hospitalized. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Woman Seriously Injured After Repeated Blows to the Face, Strangled in North Tonawanda

A Niagara County Court judge is expected to decide by the end of January whether a woman convicted of a fatal stabbing should receive a reduced prison sentence under New York’s Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act. Judge John Ottaviano is reviewing final written submissions filed December 29th by both prosecutors and defense attorneys for Ashley Berger, 42, of Niagara Falls. Berger has already served roughly 10 years out of a 15-year state prison sentence stemming from the killing of 22-year-old Richard Christian. She is seeking either a shortened sentence or immediate release. The underlying crime dates back to April 27th, 2014, when Niagara Falls Police responded to the Rodeway Inn Motel on Main Street. Officers found Christian suffering from a single stab wound to the chest outside a motel room door. He was taken to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center where he ultimately died. Investigators determined that Berger had been staying at the motel and that Christian had solicited her as a prostitute. As part of a plea to first-degree manslaughter, she admitted stabbing Christian during a dispute after he attempted to reclaim the $100 he had paid her. Berger said that the incident took place after Christian refused to put on a condom and had forced himself on her. Berger was a 31-year-old mother of two with no prior criminal record. The request followed more than three days of testimony in October during which Berger and multiple expert witnesses detailed allegations of long-term abuse, exploitation, and coercion. Ottaviano is evaluating the request under the Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act, enacted in 2019, which allows courts to reconsider sentences when abuse is shown to have played a substantial role in the underlying crime. The statute applies to both pending cases and post-conviction resentencing motions. Expert testimony presented on Berger’s behalf included analysis from professionals specializing in domestic violence, trauma, and sex trafficking. One of the experts has previously testified in nationally prominent sexual assault cases, lending additional weight to the defense’s argument that Berger’s actions occurred within a broader pattern of victimization. Under the law, defendants must demonstrate that they were victims of physical, sexual, or psychological abuse at the time of the offense and that the abuse was a significant contributing factor to their criminal conduct. Prosecutors challenged Berger’s credibility during the hearing, suggesting her account had been shaped to meet the legal threshold for relief under the statute. Defense experts countered that independent evidence supported Berger’s narrative. This would be the first such relief granted in Niagara County. Promotional Content Judge Weighs Sentence Cut After Niagara Falls Woman Killed Client Over Condom, $100 Cash

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW Law enforcement received a call around 7:30pm on January 4th after reports of a mental health emergency on 69th Street in Niagara Falls. The 911 caller said that her 16-year-old son, who is on the spectrum, was attempting to jump out of their window, stating that he was going to cause harm to himself. Police and emergency personnel responded to the scene. It is unknown if the boy was taken for mental health treatment, but police/first responders were able to prevent the worst case scenario from occurring with a swift response. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential support available 24/7. No further information is available at this time. These are merely allegations and should not be taken as fact. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Police Save 16-year-old Autistic Boy's Life in Niagara Falls who Attempted to Jump Out Window

LISTEN TO POLICE AUDIO BELOW A man died Sunday afternoon after falling from a window of a multi-story building in Lockport, police say. Police said the incident occurred around 12:15pm at a building on Main Street where a 63-year-old man fell from the eighth floor. Police audio indicated that they received a call stating a male was on the ground with blood everywhere. His identity has not been released, nor has the circumstances surrounding the fall. Emergency responders pronounced the man deceased at the scene. His body was later taken to the Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office where an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause and manner of death. Police said the circumstances surrounding the fall remain under investigation. LISTEN TO FULL AUDIO HERE: Promotional Content Man Killed After Falling from Eighth-floor Window in Niagara County