LARGE FIGHT BREAKS OUT ON MIDDLE

MULTIPLE SHOTS FIRED

FEMALE HIT INSIDE HOME

Elyria – One girl was shot in the buttocks when shots rang out on Middle Ave near 14th Street Tuesday afternoon just before 5:30pm.

Police say a fight broke out in front of 1030 Middle Ave when gunfire began – one of the bullets found its way inside of the home and into the body of 20 year old Asti Cannon of Elyria.

Although LifeCare Ambulance was sent to the scene, Cannon was picked up by friends and family and transported to the Emergency Room. While responding to the call Police observed the white car traveling at a high rate of speed heading to the area of the hospital. Officers followed the car to the Emergency Room and confirmed that they had a gunshot victim.

The shots pierced the home and a van parked in the driveway, with an infant inside, was struck numerous times. The infant was not injured.

Marquel C. Brown, 19 of Elyria, was charged with Felonious Assault and Police say more arrests are imminent. Brown is already free on bond in connection with a Felonious Assault charge earlier this year. Brown’s criminal record also includes an OVI, Intimidation of a Victim, Driving Under Suspension, Failure to Stop after a Crash, Contempt, Disorderly Conduction – Intoxicated and Offenses Involving Underage Children.

Cannon was transported to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

PHOTO GALLERY

CAR GOES OFF ROAD – SLAMS TREES

OCCUPANTS ESCAPE THROUGH WINDOW

Carlisle Township – Screeching tires and a loud bang – then silence. That is what neighbors heard early Tuesday morning on Oberlin Elyria Road across from West River Road. Residents went outside to investigate and found a car buried in the woods and within seconds it was on fire.

Carlisle Township Firefighters responded and found the Toyota Avalon in the trees and on fire – but could not find any victims.

While extinguishing the blaze the two victims appeared along with family members of the passenger.

Paramedics from LifeCare treated the passenger who was lying on the road bleeding from the head. The driver, who at first claimed not to be injured, was taken to a patrol car for questioning. A short time later he began experiencing pain and requested an ambulance.

LifeCare arrived with a second squad and transported 18-year-old Michael Williams of Lorain to Elyria Memorial.

Trooper AJ Torres of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that Williams had been traveling south on West River Road before the crash. “The driver failed to stop at the sign and attempted to turn west onto Oberlin-Elyria Road when he went off the right side of road and into the trees.” Torres said that Williams was traveling at a rate of speed higher then the posted limit before the crash but was unable to determine the actual speed.

It is likely that Williams will be charged in the crash once the investigation is completed.


PHOTO GALLERY

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Click image to enlarge

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT?

Or should I say, Who Got The Dogs Now?

Krazy Macs got the Dogs now.

Famous for their Mac & Cheese dishes Krazy Macs adds .99 Hot Dogs to their menu today. The owner said the addition of .99 cent Hot Dogs to his menu is a result of listening to his customers and the community.

Krazy Macs now offer .99 Hot Dogs everyday – for an extra .30 cents you can add Homemade Chili and Cheddar to your Dog. For $1.50 you can enjoy a Dog with Cheddar and Kraut. Of course you can’t properly enjoy a Hot Dog without fries – Krazy Macs now offers Fresh Cut Fries for only $1.40 – for only $2.00 you can have Chili & Cheddar dumped over the Fries.

Returning to the menu will be my favorite, the Cheeseburger Mac – good stuff.

So we’ll see you at Krazy Macs today for lunch.

Krazy Macs
Corner of Broad & Cedar
Downtown Elyria
Open until 8PM

THREE ESCAPE FIERY CRASH

2006 BMW & 1 TREE DESTROYED IN FIRE

Sheffield Township – A single car crash on Dunton Road in Sheffield Township ended with a BMW scorched and one man with a broken leg.

Trooper AJ Torres of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that the three men were north on Dunton Road at the time of the crash. “The driver of the 2006 BMW failed to negotiate a curve while traveling at a high rate of speed – they went off the right side of the road where they got air born over a culvert and then struck two trees.”

All three occupants were able to get out of the car on their own – one with a broken leg and cuts to his face. When the three saw the car smoking and start to burn the two carried their friend with the busted leg across the street.A woman driving by stopped and asked if they needed help – she said the men asked her to drive them to the hospital. The woman refused that request but called 9-1-1 immediately.

A Deputy from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department was patrolling the area when he heard the call go out to the Sheffield Township Fire Department. The Deputy responded and as he was pulling up two of the occupants began heading for the woods, leaving their friend on the ground. The witness said the Deputy caught up to the two and brought them back to the scene, detaining them for the Troopers.

Sheffield Township Firefighters worked to extinguish the car fire and the fire that had spread into the woods while other Firefighters attended to the victim with the broken leg.

Torres said that although all three occupants are from the Lorain area, the car is owned by a person in Columbus. Troopers had the Officers in Columbus trying to make contact with the registered owner to find out why the three men had his car.The driver of the car, Tyrone Jackson, will be charged but Torres said that would come after he has a conversation with the Prosecutor.

Chief Joe Bandagski of the Sheffield Township Fire Department said a bulldozer was brought in by their Street Department to push the tree back off of the roadway.

PHOTO GALLERY

POLICE: PULL YOUR GARMINS

Elyria – Elyria Police are warning those who use Garmin’s or TomTom’s to pull them out of their cars before the bad guys do.

Police took reports last Friday from two victims of GPS thefts in the area of the Midway Mall. The first was in the parking lot of the Harry Buffalo around 6pm. The other was an employee of Texas Roadhouse on Market Drive. Both victims returned to their car to find the passenger side windows broken and the GPS units missing. In both cases nothing else had been taken and both valued at $150.00.

Police say that thieves have recently snagged about 15 GPS units throughout the city. They say that people should remove the units from the windshields if the car will be unattended. They also suggest that you pull the suction cups as well, the bag guys see that and will go fishing through your car to see if you are hiding the unit under the seat or in the glove box.

13K RING STOLEN FROM MALL

Elyria – Employees of Rogers Jewelers inside of Midway Mall reported the theft of a Leo Diamond engagement ring valued at $13,000.00.

The manager of the store advised Police that a young black male entered their store Saturday evening and inquired about opening a credit card – while informing the male about the process the manager noticed that he was acting suspicious.

Another employee at the store advised Officers that the male was approximately 6 feet, 150 to 180 and was younger with a dark complexion. The male was also described as having a short beard that was very thin and was wearing a Kugi jacket with multicolored writing.

The employee said that the man began asking about the Leo diamond engagement rings. He asked the see a 1.46-carat ring in a gold setting. The ring was valued at approximately $13000.00. The male began asking questions about the ring and then took off running. The male ran towards the Dilliards store followed by a citizen. The suspect exited the mall near Dillards.

The employee advised Police that the subject gave him an Indiana driver’s license but he did not look at the photograph until after the suspect ran off. He advised that the ID card is not the same subject that took the ring.

Police obtained video surveillance from Alvin’s Jewelers after they learned the suspect had been in that store earlier.

BUSTED CARRYING DRUGS INTO JAIL

Elyria – An Elyria woman appeared in Elyria Municipal Court this morning after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers arrested her yesterday for attempting to convey drugs into the Lorain Correctional Institution.

Troopers charged Stacie M. Smith, 25, with attempting to convey drugs onto the grounds of a detention facility, a third-degree felony and possession of criminal tools, a fifth-degree felony.

Troopers and Department of Rehabilitation and Correction investigators obtained information that Smith would attempt to convey drugs to her boyfriend, an inmate, during a scheduled visit. Smith was arrested after a consent search revealed balloons containing a total of three grams of marijuana and one gram of cocaine concealed on her person.

Smith was incarcerated in the Lorain County Jail. If convicted, she could face up to six years in prison and a $12,500 fine.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol investigates criminal activity on state owned and leased property.

QUICK POLICE RESPONSE

NABS ARMED ROBBER IN 10 MINUTES

Elyria – A combination of quick thinking of a store clerk, a quick steady flow of pertinent information to Officers by a Dispatcher and a quick, coordinated response by Elyria Police Officers result in the apprehention of an armed robber early Saturday morning.

Saturday – 6:20 am
Two store clerks, Aaron H. Simmons and Ms. Bertram, at the Circle K at 402 East Broad Street observed a white male, later identified as Matthew R. Kirkbride, wearing a green or dark colored jacket with a brown or tan skullcap enter their store. Kirkbride walked to the beer cooler and selected a 40oz bottle of Budweiser beer. Kirkbride then approached the counter and laid the beer on the countertop. Kirkbride then said, “I want the cash.” Ms. Bertram advised him that he could obtain cash from the ATM, and pointed him towards the machine. Kirkbride then reached behind his back, and pulled out a black handled steak knife and held it near his stomach area with the blade pointing towards Ms. Bertram and Mr. Simmons. Kirkbride then said, “I want all the cash.” Kirkbride then said, “Are we going to sit here and debate this?” Mr. Simmons then complied, and began giving the suspect the cash from his register ($66.00 in cash).

At that time, Ms. Bertram picked up her cell phone, and called the Elyria Police Department. Bertram placed the cell phone onto the counter so that dispatch could hear what was happening. Bertram then opened her register, and gave Kirkbride the contents of her register ($50.00 in cash). Kirkbride then grabbed the 40oz bottle of Budweiser, and exited the store. Bertram then ran after the suspect and observed him running northbound down Kipling St. towards Clark St. Ms. Bertram witnessed the suspect enter a dark colored Buick 4dr, near Clark St., and observed the vehicle head eastbound on Clark St. towards Abbe Rd. Ms. Bertram continued to relay all the information to the Police Dispatcher who was constantly relaying information to responding Officers.

One of the Officers responding was Elyria Police Officer Orsik who had been on routine patrol in the area.

6:26 am
Officer Orsik was on Clark St. when he observed a vehicle that fit the description that his Dispatcher had just given out, make a wide turn off of Kipling onto Clark with no lights on. Officer Orsik attempted to make a traffic stop on the vehicle but vehicle continued east on Clark towards the intersection of Winckles. The vehicle did not stop at the intersection and proceeded south on Winckles. Officer Orsik continued to follow the vehicle on Winckles towards East Broad St. The vehicle stopped at the intersection of E. Broad St. and then continued south crossing E. Broad onto Winckles. Officer Orsik continued to follow on Winckles approaching the intersection of Cambridge Ave. The vehicle stopped at the intersection of Winckles and Cambridge and Officer Orsik observed the driver, later identified as Matthew R. Kirkbride, throw a knife out of the driver’s side window onto the pavement. Officer Orsik exited his vehicle and ordered Kirkbride to exit the vehicle and get on the ground. Kirkbride exited the vehicle and took off his jacket and approached Officer Orsik yelling, “Here I am you got me”. Kirkbride got on the ground and Officer Varga and Sergeant Bermudez placed Mr. Kirkbride under arrest.

6:40 am
Officer Varga transported Mr. Kirkbride to Circle K, so that Mr. Simmons and Ms. Bertram could positively identify the suspect. Mr. Simmons and Ms. Bertram both positively identified Kirkbride as the man whom had robbed the store. Mr. Kirkbride then made an excited utterance and said, “It was me – I took your shit – Your money is in my car.” Officer Varga then transported Mr. Kirkbride to the Elyria City Jail for processing and will be held pending $23,440.00 cash bond or court appearance at Elyria Municipal Court.

Kirkbride has been charged with Aggravated Robbery (2911.01A1 F-1), Resisting Arrest (2921.33 M-4), OVI (4511.19A1 M-1), Driving Under Suspension (4510.16A M-1), Reckless Operation (4511.20A MM), and Fleeing the Scene (2921.331B M-1).

6:45 amStore Manager arrives and conducted an audit of the cash registers – confirms a total of $66.00 missing. The Manager also provided a copy of the store’s video surveillance to Officers.

KNOCK, KNOCK! WHO’S THERE?

A REALLY BIG CAR – NOW LET ME IN!

Elyria – Residents on Gates Ave were shocked when they looked out their windows Sunday afternoon after hearing a loud noise and saw a car parked on the porch of 227 Gates.

A 76 year old man was turning into the driveway of 227 Gates to visit relatives Sunday afternoon around 2:30 when he said the accelerator stuck sending him up onto the porch of the home.

The man was able to extricate himself from his car and neighbors had provided him with a chair to rest while Police and Paramedics were on the way.

LifeCare Paramedics evaluated the man but he refused any treatment or transport.

Police were able to contact family members and had them come to the scene to take the man home.

Technicians from Mug’s Elyria Auto Service worked to remove the car from the front porch without causing any further damage to the structure. Elyria Firefighters were on hand to examine the porch and deemed it sound.

Shortly after the car was removed neighbors began coming together to start making repairs to the porch. Pulling loose boards and securing the corner – One of the men working on the porch said, “It’s just what neighbors are supposed to do for each other.”

PHOTO GALLERY

TWO CRITICAL AFTER CRASH

CAR GOES OFF ROAD – CRASHES INTO POLE

Elyria – A driver and 12-year-old passenger were both unresponsive at the scene of a single car crash Saturday afternoon on Lake Ave.

Jessie Merritt of Elyria was working behind WJTB radio station on Lake Ave when he heard squealing tires. “I ran from behind the building and saw the car hit the concrete base to the sign post. The car then went across the street and hit the pole in the Express Lane parking lot.”

The car had been traveling south on Lake Ave and had just passed the Elyria Police Department when the driver lost control and went off the right side of the road.

The car went up onto the sidewalk, squeezing between a utility pole and the radio station building before clipping the concrete base of the sign. The car took out a stop sign and street sign before striking the Express Lane Oil Change sign post.

Merritt approached the car and found the driver to be unresponsive. “I could tell she was out of it and then I looked in the back seat and saw the little girl who was also out of it. I started smelling gas and there was smoke coming from the car so I just reached in and got the little girl out of the car – I didn’t know what was going to happen. I took her over to the grassy area and just put her on the ground for the medics.”

Elyria Firefighters had to extricate the driver while Paramedics worked on the passenger. Both were transported to Elyria Memorial Hospital and then later flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Elyria Police Officers had the southbound traffic diverted for about an hour while Investigators worked to put the pieces together.

Merritt said that he hopes he did the right thing by pulling the girl from the car; “Nobody else was around to help so I just did what I thought was right and I hope it was the right thing. I would hope that if I were in the position that someone would do the right thing and help me. It was a scary situation but in those times you just ask God for help and strength and you do what is right.”


PHOTO GALLERY

10 HOURS – 3 CRASHES – 3 FLIGHTS

Amherst – Police, Firefighters and Paramedics were kept busy St. Patrick’s Day with 3 car crashes that sent 3 people to Cleveland by helicopters.

4:29 p.m. – 800 Block of North Main Street
John Bookmyer, age 35, of Lorain was southbound on N. Main St. when his 1997 Suzuki motorcycle left the roadway and went through two yards on N. Main St and eventually struck a driveway. The motorcycle and the driver then separated and both came to rest in a third yard. The motorcycle sustained moderate damage to the front windshield, front end, left side faring and seat. The driver was eventually flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland for injuries sustained in the accident.
The accident remains under investigation and alcohol is not believed to be a factor.

8:04 p.m. – 400 Block of Charles Ave
James L Stephenson, age 53, of Amherst was traveling westbound on Charles Ave in a 2004 Ford Escape and failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway. Stephenson left the right side of the roadway and then traveled into the tree lawn of 530 Charles Ave. Stephenson's vehicle went between a set of mailboxes and a power supply box and struck a street light pole. The pole collapsed and Stephenson continued over the pole into the tree lawn of 540 Charles Ave. then swerving left back onto the street. Stephenson's vehicle was dragging the top of the streetlight.

Stephenson's vehicle then darted across both lanes of traffic into the tree lawn of 541 Charles Ave where the top of the streetlight came to rest. Stephenson vehicle then swerved back onto the street and traveled approximately 650 feet until it slammed into the rear of a parked Ford Ranger on the north side of the street. The Ranger was pushed approximately 25’ into a set of mailboxes, destroying them, then into a parked Jeep Wrangler – pushing it about 6 feet.

The Amherst Utilities Department was notified for the downed pole and live wires.

Mr. Stephenson’s vehicle sustained heavy damage, as did the parked Ford Ranger. The Jeep Wrangler sustained moderate damage.

Mr. Stephenson was transported to Amherst Hospital and later flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland for injuries he sustained in the accident.

Preliminary reports indicate Mr. Stephenson was not wearing a seatbelt. This incident remains under investigation.

2:42 a.m. March 18th – Tenney and Spring Street
Scott B Morris, age 20, of Lorain was traveling eastbound on Tenney Ave approaching the intersection of Spring St in a 2001 Kia Optima. Two other vehicles were stopped at the stop sign at that intersection. Mr. Morris failed to stop his vehicle and struck the back of a 2006 Pontiac G-6 driven by Elizabeth Smith, age 24, of Amherst. Miss Smith’s vehicle stuck the rear of a 2008 Mercury Mariner driven by Kristina Van Wagnen, age 23, of Lorain.

As a result of the accident, Miss Smith had to be removed from her vehicle by the Amherst Fire Department. She was transported to Amherst hospital and later flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

The vehicles driven by Morris and Smith sustained a moderate amount of damage and were both disabled. Van Wagnen’s vehicle sustained only minor damage.

As a result of the investigation Mr. Morris was formally charged with Operating a Vehicle under the Influence, Assured Clear Distance, Underage Consumption, and Blood Alcohol Content over .17%.

Morris was then processed through the Amherst City Jail and later released on personal recognizance pending appearance in Oberlin Municipal Court on 3/20/09 at 8:30am.

FROM A GRATEFUL FIRE CHIEF

Editor’s note: I found this letter on the Florence Township website tonight and thought I would share it with our readers. It’s a thank you letter from Chief William Rennie of the Florence Township Fire Department.

I would like to take time to thank everyone who helped and supported the Florence Twp. Fire Department on March 3. I have been on the department almost 24 years and this was the largest fire I can recall.

First, I would like to thank all of my fellow firefighters who came from all over the area to assist us. You are all truly a class act and I am proud to be associated with you. These departments are Amherst, South Amherst, Wellington, Camden, Wakeman, Vermilion, Vermilion Township, Berlin Township, Huron and Milan Township fire departments. Your help was greatly appreciated by the citizens of Florence Township, our whole department and myself.

Second, I would like to thank the citizens of the community. You came and watched from the sidewalk across the street never getting in the way of all of the equipment moving around. We appreciate all the people carrying coffee and shouting words of support and thanks.

Next, I need to thank our businesses in the area that brought food and drinks, the Red Cross from both Lorain and Erie counties, Country Breeze Carryout and Smokin Joes for all of the pizza and doughnuts, the Birmingham United Methodist Church for the coffee and drinks and McDonald’s for making hundreds of cheeseburgers and fries to feed these hard working firemen.

Also, I would like to thank Mr. Bettcher for his forethought in redoing his lake for fire protection a few years ago, not only for his fire protection but also for the benefit of the community. This water supply was invaluable on this day.

At the end of the day we suffered a huge loss to our community but most importantly, no one was hurt. And Mrs. Janosik, who lives in the house next door, had a home to return to.

In the end, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to every member of the Florence Township Fire Department for their hard work and dedication to our community. I am proud to be a member and even more proud to be the chief of this first-class department.

Chief William Rennie
Florence Township Fire Department


FIRE SCENE PHOTO GALLERY

REAR ENDER IN DOWNTOWN AMHERST

VICTIM EXTRICATED AND FLOWN

DEVELOPING
Amherst – A three car crash around 2:45am this morning in downtown Amherst sent one woman to Metro by helicopter.

The crash occurred at the intersection of Tenney Ave and Church Street after one car smashed into another – causing that car to strike a minivan.

Amherst Firefighters and LifeCare Paramedics were alerted by 9-1-1 of the crash and told that one victim was unresponsive and trapped inside of the car.

Firefighters extricated the woman and then the she was transported to Amherst Emergency Room where she was later flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Check back Thursday for complete details on the crash and condition of the woman.


PHOTO GALLERY

4 ARRESTED FOR BREAKING INTO CARS

Amherst – Amherst Police arrested four people Sunday morning on charges ranging from Vehicle Trespass, Criminal Trespass Disorderly Conduct Intoxication.

On Sunday, at approximately 3:45 a.m., Officers responded to the area of West Street and Franklin Avenue in regards to two males walking northbound on West Street looking into vehicles and acting suspicious. They were described as wearing long hooded coats.

When Officers got on scene they observed one of the males running in the front yard of a home at Maple and East Street. That man was detained by Police on suspicion of thefts from vehicles.

Another Officer spotted two females in a green Honda nearby – After an investigation was conducted they were detained as well on suspicion of theft related activities.

Several minutes later, a fourth male fitting the original description was located on Middle Ridge Road just east of State Route 58. This male was also detained on suspicion of several theft related charges.

Further investigation revealed that a number of vehicles were unlawfully entered throughout the residential area in which the suspects were detained. Several items believed to be stolen were recovered from the suspects.

Arrested were:
Ernie R Ortiz of Lorain, age 24, formally charged with Obstructing Official Business, Criminal Trespass, Petty Theft (2 counts), Vehicle Trespass (2 counts), and Disorderly Conduct Intoxication. Bond was set at $3,650.00.

Luz D Ortiz of Lorain, age 32, formally charged with Driving Under Suspension, Obstructing Official Business, Criminal Trespass, Complicity to Petty Theft, Possession of Criminal Tools, and Receiving Stolen Property. Bond was set at $5000.00.

Ana C Suarez of Lorain, age 42, formally charged with Obstructing Official Business, Criminal Trespass, and Complicity to Petty Theft. Bond was set at $2,000.00.

Anibol Colon of Lorain, age 34, formally charged with Obstructing Official Business, Criminal Trespass, Petty Theft (2 counts), Vehicle Trespass (2 counts), Disorderly Conduct Intoxication, and Disorderly Conduct Intoxication. Bond was set at $3,900.00.

TRAFFIC STOP NETS DRUG ARRESTS

Amherst – Amherst Police arrested two men Monday night after they discovered a large amount of Heroin and Cocaine in their car.

An Amherst Police Officer stopped a car on Route 2 Monday night for traffic violations and vehicle defects. The driver, 28 year old Michael Tarter of Cleveland, informed the Officer that he did not have a valid driver’s license, which the Officer later confirmed. Tarter was placed under arrest and several “indicators of criminal activities” were observed by the Officer according to Police.

Due to these indicators, Officer Soto from the Lorain Police Department and his K-9 J.B. were contacted to conduct a “sniff” of the vehicle. K-9 J.B. alerted on the rear area of the vehicle. A subsequent search revealed over 140 unit doses of Heroin as well as over 40 grams of Cocaine.

Tarter was charged with Failure to Signal a Turn, Fictitious Plates, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Trafficking in Heroin, Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Criminal Tools, and Drug Paraphernalia. His bond was $54,000.00.



Tarter’s passenger, 26 year old Iram Molina of Lorain, was charged with Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Trafficking in Heroin, Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Criminal Tools, and Drug Paraphernalia. His bond was set at $52,750.00.

Several thousand dollars were also seized.

Both suspects were transported to the Lorain County Jail pending their appearance in Oberlin Municipal Court.

HAVE YOU SEEN THESE MEN?

WANTED

The Avon Police Department is attempting to identify the males located in the above photos. They are wanted for questioning involving a home burglary that took place on March 16th.

The men were last seen operating a silver minivan believed to be a Ford Windstar.

Anyone with information about these individuals is asked to contact the Avon Police Department Detective Bureau at (440) 934-1234.

VIEW ALL PHOTOS

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Have a great St. Patrick’s Day

Slánté!

THAT'S A LOT OF SPEEDING TICKETS

COLUMBUS – Hamilton and Sandusky counties had the most citations for aggressive speed of 20 plus miles-per-hour over the speed limit last year according to new statistics released by the Patrol today. Troopers issued a total of 74,507 aggressive speed citations state wide last year.

According to the Aggressive Driving: 20+ mph Over the Speed Limit statistical recap from the Patrol’s Statistical Analysis Unit, during 2008 troopers made 4,797 aggressive speed citations in Hamilton County and 3,111 in Sandusky County. Rounding out the top five were Franklin County with 2,838 citations, Erie County with 2,593 and Lorain County with 2,523. In addition, troopers on the Ohio Turnpike cited 13,198 motorists, accounting for 18 percent of all the aggressive speed citations state wide.

“Driving at speeds of 20 miles-per-hour over the posted speed limit are considered a dangerous form of aggressive driving,” Colonel Richard H. Collins, Patrol superintendent said. “Drivers that engage in this type of perilous behavior are putting their life and others lives at risk.”

Of the total traffic stops resulting in an aggressive speed citation, 850 also included an OVI arrest, 709 involved the driver of a commercial vehicle and 1,543 involved a violation for driving under a suspended license.

So far this year, troopers have issued 7, 829 citations for aggressive speed.

Counties
Lorain – 2.523
Erie – 2,593
Huron – 367
Medina – 1,145
Sandusky – 3,111
Ashland – 964
Cuyahoga – 1,649
Morgan – 30

FIRE SET IN HIGH SCHOOL RESTROOM

Lorain – Students and faculty of Lorain Southview High School were evacuated Monday morning after a fire was started in a bathroom.

Southview Senior Mario Ramirez said he had left his Physiology class to go to the restroom and discovered the fire. “I walked down the hall to the bathroom and I could see that it was dark in there – I checked to see if it was locked because I thought the light was off. It was unlocked so I opened it and started to go inside and then a bunch of smoke came out and hit me – got into my eyes, I couldn’t see. I backed out and then a security guard came up and asked if I was ok – I told him I was.”

Ramirez said that the guard then opened the door again and saw the fire and pulled the alarm. “Everybody evacuated the building at that time and they kept us outside for like an hour and a half. I’m just glad it was a nice day.”

Lorain Firefighters responded and extinguished the blaze quickly with a fire extinguisher. City employees tested the hydrant directly in front of the school as the suspects were still sitting in patrol cars and found the hydrant to be inoperable. The Fire Department has the hydrant now listed as out of service.

A school official told the media that 3 males were being “secured” by Lorain Police Officers for the investigation. Three men were taken away in three separate Police cars from the school for further questioning.

Another witness who only wanted to use her first name, Rochelle, is also a senior at Lorain Southview – she said this is the second bathroom fire that caused an evacuation. “Last Friday there was a fire in a bathroom, in that one though it was a Hispanic girl that set the fire. This one today it was like three or four Hispanic boys that started the fire. I think in both cases they really need to get in some kind of trouble – this is arson and they should pay for that crime.”

In the incident that occurred last Friday, a female student has been suspended for 10 days and has been referred for expulsion. The same fate waits for those who set the fire today according to school officials.

There were no reported injuries in either fire.


PHOTO GALLERY

FIRE DISPLACES FAMILY OF 6

Elyria – Elyria Firefighters were called back to West River Road South Saturday night for another house on fire. This time though six people occupied the home.

Neighbor’s say that one of the children was asleep in an upstairs bedroom when he woke up and found his bed on fire. Everyone in the house was able to escape without injury.

Firefighters arrived and found fire shooting out through a second floor window. Firefighters entered the home and quickly extinguished the blaze before it could spread through the structure.

Neighbors provided shelter for the displaced residents of 749 West River Road South – one neighbor said it’s the least they could do. “They’ve had a lot of problems lately, the one son just broke his foot this morning so he is walking around with crutches now. Their landlord has not been very good at making repairs, I know they have had a lot of electrical problems – there are outlets with no plates covering them. You can just grab a hold and pull the box out, that is probably was started the fire.”

The Lorain County Chapter of the American Red Cross was called by Fire Officials to assist the family. The Red Cross said they would be providing shelter for one adult – others had already taken in the children.

The Elyria Fire Department is investigating the cause of the fire.

PHOTO GALLERY

IT’S SPRING TIME!

South Amherst – It’s a sure sign that spring has arrived when you see the boards have been removed from the Krieg’s Frozen Custard building on Route 113 in South Amherst.

The boards are off and the OPEN sign is waving in the breeze as the Krieg family opens for the 2009 season. Along with their Frozen Custard, Krieg’s also offer a wide selection of food including my favorite – the Chili Dog! I hear the Taco Salad is also pretty good.

So if you are in the area – stop by and enjoy a Chili Dog with a Milkshake.

Krieg’s “It’z the Berries” Frozen Custard
46045 Telegraph Road – South Amherst
440.986.5300

Spring Hours
Mon – Sat 11am – 9pm
Sunday – 1pm – 9pm
Kitchen closes at 8pm.

Continue to support locally owned independent businesses

DRIVER INJURED AS JEEP ROLLS

Elyria – A man driving a Jeep Cherokee Sport along I-90 lost control and flipped several times before coming to rest in a ditch full of mud.

Sheffield Village Police were first dispatched when it was reported that the crash occurred on I-90 just west of 254 – but when Officers began checking they discovered the crash closer to the Black River Bridge in Elyria’s jurisdiction.

Police arrived and found a Jeep Cherokee resting on its passenger side in a ditch. Four kids, one on crutches, had pulled the driver from his Jeep before Police arrived. The driver was placed into a Police car until Medics arrived.

Paramedics from Sheffield Village Fire Department treated the driver on scene and later transported him to Elyria Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Witnesses were not sure why the man lost control but said that after leaving the road he traveled about 100 yards before stopping. They also said he had a strong odor of alcohol.

Elyria Police are investigating the crash.

PHOTO GALLERY

ANOTHER ONE? REALLY?

Elyria – Elyria Firefighters were called back to West River Road South Saturday night for another house on fire. This time though six people occupied the home.

Check back later today for the story and photos.

AREA CHURCHES SET TO CLOSE

Elyria – The Cleveland Catholic Diocese has announced the closing of nearly 50 parishes throughout the diocese – including Elyria’s Holy Cross Church at 1417 West Ave and Sacred Heart Church on Irondale. St. Jude, St. Mary’s and St. Agnes will all remain open and take in members of the closing Elyria churches.

The diocese has 230 parishes and as part of a major reconfiguration program, at least 50 of those parishes will be closed and the parishioners will move to other local churches. The diocese says the move is due to a decline in population, attendance and the financial struggle to maintain all of the parishes.

In Lorain Holy Trinity will close and merge with St. Mary’s.

St. Ladislaus, St. Stanislaus and St. Joseph churches will close.

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Peter’s will both remain open

Sacred Heart in South Lorain, St. John the Baptist at Grove and Homewood and St. Vincent de Paul on North Ridge Road in Elyria Township will remain open.

Closing and ordered to merge with St. John the Baptist are St. Vitus Church, Lorain, and Ss. Cyril & Methodius Church.

A complete list of closings and mergers will be announced Sunday morning at a press conference being held by the Bishop of the Diocese.

BOIL ALERT LIFTED

ALERT
Elyria – Residents can take the kettles of water off the stove – Officials have LIFTED THE BOIL ALERT for Elyria, Elyria Township, Amherst, Amherst Township and Carlisle Township.

POLICE DISCOVER HOUSE FIRE

Elyria – On patrol late Friday night, Elyria Police Sergeant Ryan Warfield found himself on Gateway Blvd, near Con-Sun. Warfield noticed smoke coming across the road so he parked his car and began to investigate.

He discovered the source of the smoke – a fire in a house at 417 West River Road South. While Warfield is calling his Dispatcher to contact Fire, you could hear him pounding on the door of the home.

Additional Officers arrived moments later and began knocking on neighbors doors to discover if the home that was on fire was truly vacant or not. They quickly got their answer from neighbors but continued to check through windows and open doorways to make sure nobody was inside of the structure.

Elyria Firefighters arrived and found fire coming from the basement area of the home and it was climbing up the stairwell.

Captain Joe Pronesti of the Elyria Fire Department said that Firefighters knocked it down quickly and then began ventilating the structure. Once ventilated, they were able to investigate if any of the fire had spread into the walls – it did not.

Pronesti called the fire “suspicious in nature” and that the Fire Department Prevention Bureau was on scene investigating the cause.

One neighbor who was awakened by the Police Officers said they were grateful that they had been so alert to discover the fire. “At this hour of the night (1:30am) if they had not discovered it how much worse would it have been? If that had gotten out of control man that could have taken out other houses. This is not a real busy street, I’m just real happy that the cop drove down here tonight and saw this and they got us all up.”

PHOTO GALLERY

CITY OF ELYRIA UNDER BOIL ALERT

IN EFFECT UNTIL 4PM SATURDAY

Elyria – If your water pressured has seemed low over the last 24 hours it’s not your imagination. Intakes in Lorain have been fouled with ice according to Tom Kelley, Director of the Lorain County Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security. “Due to the jam there has been a reduction in capacity the Elyria Water Treatment Plant in Lorain can produce – causing the low pressure.”

Tests that have been done at the plant indicate an increase in of turbidity or cloudiness in the water which could mean an increase of bacteria.

Officials say that anyone affected by the ALERT should boil any water that will be used for drinking or cooking for 3 minutes. They also say that this is purely precautionary but still strongly encourage anyone serviced by the City of Elyria to follow the Boil Alert instructions.

The BOIL ALERT affects ALL of the City of Elyria and anyone serviced by the City of Elyria. This includes; Amherst, Amherst Township, Carlisle Township and Elyria Township.

The ALERT is in effect until Saturday at 4PM at which time more testing will be done to determine if the ALERT can be lifted.

ELYRIA OFFICER INJURED IN FIGHT

Elyria – Elyria Police were called to 1864 Middle Ave, Midview Crossing, Thursday night after security there reported a disturbance at the front gate.

Security Officers told Police that a blue car pulled up to the guard gate with four people inside. Three of the four had proper identification required to enter the complex. One of the three who had proper ID was a resident of Midview Crossing.

The occupant who did not provide ID began yelling at the Security Officers and then “got in their face and spit on them.” The man, later identified as Gregory Raymore, then ran and jumped the fence near “E” building and continued running south.

While one Elyria Police Officer, Officer Eichenlaub, made contact with Security at the front gate, another Officer, Officer Todd Straub, began checking the surrounding area.

Eichenlaub questioned the remaining three occupants of the car – all three claimed to not know who the man who had been inside of their car.

Meanwhile Officer Straub located a man matching the description of the subject on Scott Street near Fuller Road. Straub stopped his car and as he got out to question the subject, also later identified as Raymore, he began running back towards the apartment complex. Straub yelled “Police Stop” but Raymore continued running through a large grassy area toward Nelson Street. Straub continued to yell orders to Raymore to stop and get one the ground – Raymore continued running. While running Straub observed Raymore to have an unknown object in his right hand.

Straub caught up to Raymore at the corner of Scott Street and Nelson Street where both Straub and Raymore fell to the ground in a grassy area. Raymore pushed Straub off of him and jumped back to his feet. Straub yelled for Raymore to stop resisting and he quickly turned and squared up in an aggressive stance in front of Straub with clenched fists. Raymore began to shove Straub and attempted to again run.

Straub grabbed Raymore and tackled him to the ground. Raymore continued to fight with Straub attempting to strike him and began grabbing at his duty belt.

Straub attempted to radio to other shift Officers several times for assistance while fighting with Raymore, but was unable. Due to the length of the pursuit and continued struggle, Straub began feeling hypoxic and exhausted. Raymore refused to obey Officers commands and continued to attempt to strike Straub to get away from him.

Straub was in fear for his safety due to his exhaustion, continued struggle, and lack of being able to contact other officers for assistance. Straub then used an open hand distraction technique and inadvertently struck Raymore in the facial area. Raymore continued to attempt to scramble and get away.

While on the ground, Straub placed Raymore in a headlock and continued to tell him to stop resisting. Mr. Raymore slid out of his shirt, coat, and Officer Straub’s grasp and began running in a northeast direction toward 2034 Scott St.

Tired and exhausted, Straub again gave chase to Raymore. Raymore attempted to jump a fence at the back of the driveway, leading into the back yard of 2034 Scott St. Raymore fell breaking several pieces of the fence. Raymore then began running in the back yard of the residence. Straub jumped the fence and observed Raymore to be tired and fall to the ground. Straub was able to place Raymore into handcuffs and radio to other officers for assistance.

While this was going on, Officers began hearing Straub’s call for help and responded to the area. Officer Eichenlaub arrived and found Straub’s car, then observed a pile of clothing and several items lying on the sidewalk on Scott St. near Nelson St. Eichenlaub observed a set of Straub’s handcuff’s laying on the sidewalk near the pile of clothes. Eichenlaub and Sumpter began yelling for Straub. Officers then began running through backyards looking for Straub.

Eichenlaub made contact with Straub who was extremely out of breath. Officer Eichenlaub observed Officer Straub’s gun belt to partially off and his clothing disheveled. Officer Straub advised that he felt nauseous and could not catch his breath.

While searching the area where Raymore assaulted and fought with Straub Officers collected several items that belonged to Straub and Raymore – including Raymore’s identification card.

Officers returned to the guard gate and showed a booking photo of Raymore to the Security Officers and asked if it was the same man who they had the altercation with earlier – the Security Officers said yes and when he found out what the man’s name was he advised Officers that Raymore was on the “trespass list” and wished to press charges.

Raymore was charged with Assault on a Police Officer F-4, Resisting Arrest M-1, Obstructing Official Business F-5 and Criminal Trespass M-4. Raymore is currently being held in the Elyria City Jail.

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MOTORCYCLIST DIES OF INJURIES

UPDATE
Henrietta Township – The 56 year old victim of a motorcycle crash last weekend died Wednesday at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed Wednesday night that Michael Yelensky of Wakeman died while being taken into surgery for a blood clot in his leg.

Yelensky was traveling north on Baumhart Road on his motorcycle and was approaching Route 113 while 34 year old Chester Maclean of Vermilion was traveling south on Baumhart. Maclean attempted to make a left turn onto Route 113 pulling right into the path of Yelensky causing the crash.

Yelensky was treated at the scene by Paramedics from Central Lorain County Ambulance District then transported to Allen Community Hospital in Oberlin. He was later flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Maclean was cited at the scene for failure to yield when turning left.

CITY & FIRE REACH AGREEMENT

Elyria – After a marathon negotiating session on Tuesday, the City of Elyria and the Elyria Firefighters Union has reached a tentative agreement that will prevent any Firefighter from being laid off in 2009.

Union President Dean Marks said this afternoon that the deal still must be voted on by the Union and City Council, but he is hopeful that the deal will be approved. “The Union has some concessions in those meetings to help with the finances and the City has done their part by saying that in fact they will not have any layoffs in 2009 in the Elyria Fire Department. That is critical to us because for us it’s always been about safety and we feel that if they keep these guys on the job it gives us the ability to one, protect ourselves and to keep four stations open in the City which of course means more safety for the citizens of Elyria.”

Marks said that the concessions are coming from Firefighters salaries. “It’s all parts of our contract, so essentially we’re taking a cut in our salary to alleviate some of the financing for the City. There is some pay that we are due later this year and we went ahead and said that we will no longer take those pays to save the city some money so that we can keep these guys on the job.”

All Firefighters were called to an informational meeting at the Cedar Street Station this afternoon at 2pm, Marks stepped away to meet with the Media to make the announcement. Marks said that although the members had a lot of questions about the deal, the guys know that in the end the deal will keep all the Firefighters on the job. “They know that these are guys that will be behind us in the fire to help us out. Like I said, this is our second family and we don’t want to see anyone cut so we are doing what we can to help out to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

Marks said that with the concessions they have agreed to it will save the City $250,000.00 from now until the end of the year.

The next step now for the Fire Department is for the Union to vote, Marks said that will be sometime next week – probably Thursday. Elyria City Council will also have to sign off on the deal to make it final.

Marks said that the marathon sessions contained a lot of back and forth with a lot of number crunching. “I think it was well received by both sides, I think we got together – sat down at the table in good faith and came up with an agreement.”

When asked about the difference between what the City had said would have to be cut from the Fire Departments budget, $600,000.00, and the $250,000.00 that they are agreeing to in concessions, Marks said that the City is going to “make some changes in their budget to come up with the monies that they would need in fact to keep us on the job. One of the ways will be to move our mechanic from our budget and put him back on the Central Maintenance Garage’s budget so that will be a savings of about $75,000.00 right there.”

Marks said that Union officials were selling the agreement to the members and said that he is hopeful that they will come up with something that will work for all sides.

EATIN' IN EATON

The Eaton Township Fire & Rescue Department invites you to join them for an “All You Can Eat” Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, March 21st from 5:30 until 7pm.

Tickets are ONLY $7. Per person – Children 4 and under dine for free!

For tickets contact the station at 440.748.2496

Dinner will be served at the Fire Station located at Route 82 & Route 83 in Eaton Township.

As always, remember what Jason – from Sundays with Jason – would say about the “All you can eat” specials. “It’s an offer, not a challenge.”

FIREFIGHTER PLEADS NOT GUILTY

“Spit was coming out of his mouth, wanting me to get out of my car to beat me up.” Louie Lockhart

Elyria – Elyria Firefighter Chris Nilges appeared in front of Judge John Musson early Wednesday morning and plead Not Guilty on charges of Assault, Menacing and Unlawful Restraint.

The charges stem from an incident that occurred Monday morning when Nilges was traveling behind Louie Lockhart in Carlisle Township. Nilges told authorities that Lockhart had thrown something out of his car at his truck. Nilges pulled in front of Lockhart, blocking his vehicle and approached the 57 year old former City of Elyria Street Department Superintendent.

Lockhart said that Nilges “ripped my car door open and I tried to pull my door shut. He opened it again and pulled my arm, injuring my hand and pulling the muscles in my shoulder. I thought he was going to rip my arm off.”

Lockhart said Nilges swore at him and threatened him during the incident. “Spit was coming out of his mouth, wanting me to get out of my car to beat me up.”

Nilges told Sheriff’s Deputies that Lockhart had been driving slowly in front of him and kept hitting his brakes. He said he pulled in front of him and confronted Lockhart after he threw something at Nilges’ car. Nilges contends that he never opened Lockhart’s car door or touched him. When asked if he made any threats to Lockhart Nilges said he may have, he wasn’t sure and added that he was mad.

Lockhart said that it wasn’t until he yelled Nilges’ license plate number out and said that he would notify the Police that Nilges left the scene.

A statement given by an eyewitness supports Lockhart’s version of the incident.

2 INJURED IN OBERLIN CRASH

Pittsfield Township – A two-car crash in the intersection of Route 20 & Route 58 Tuesday afternoon sent two people to the hospital – one in critical condition.

Trooper Charlie Jackson of the Ohio State Highway Patrol said that 19-year-old William Durbin of Wakeman was traveling eastbound on Route 20 approaching the intersection of Route 58 when the crash occurred. As he hit the intersection, 16 year old Daniel Freehling of Wellington was traveling west on Route 20 and attempted to make a left turn onto 58 causing Durbin to strike Freehling’s 2007 Chevy HHR with his 1991 red VW Corrado.

Jackson said that both Durbin and his passenger, 20-year-old Corey Barnes of Wakeman, were only wearing lap belts at the time of the crash. “The car was equipped with lap and20shoulder belts but they disabled the shoulder part. I asked him why and he said that is just the way he wears it.” Barnes was sent through the windshield during the collision – causing serious head injuries.

Paramedics from Central Lorain County Ambulance District treated Barnes at the scene then transported him to Allen Community Hospital. He was then flown a short time later to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Although Durbin and Freehling both declined treatment or transport – Durbin decided later to be taken for evaluation. Durbin struck the steering wheel during the crash – bending it and putting a hole in his chin. Freehling was released at the scene to his parents.

Jackson said that Freehling was charged with Failure to Yield when Turning Left.

Durbin and Barnes were both cited for Failing to Wear a Seat Belt Properly. Jackson said that state law requires drivers and passengers to properly wear their safety belts. “The section says that a person wears all available elements of a properly adjusted occupant restraining device. So when it says all elements – that means if the vehicle has it, if it has a lap and a shoulder harness and even though it’s detachable – you still have to use them.”

PHOTO GALLERY

BARN BURNS TO THE GROUND

PLANES, TRACTORS & CARS INSIDE

Grafton Township – A barn fire on Chamberlain Road in Grafton Township Tuesday afternoon drew Firefighters and tankers from surrounding communities to help extinguish the blaze.

It is still not clear on what caused the fire that leveled the barn but officials are investigating.

Inside the barn were tractors, 6 cars, propane tanks and two airplanes. Explosions kept Firefighters on guard and on a defensive attack.

Ann Rogers lives directly next door to the barn, Rogers said she was not aware of the fire until she looked outside of her window and saw the Fire Trucks. “I was doing dishes about 30 minutes ago and heard what I thought was thunder but now I’m guessing it was the propane tanks blowing up.”

Rogers runs a Kennel on her property and although the animals were a safe distance from the fire she still moved them all inside of her home until the scene was clear.

A water shuttle was set up at the road to feed water back to the scene. Fire Departments assisting Grafton Township were; Eaton Township, LaGrange Township, Litchfield and Grafton Village.

No injuries were reported at this time.


PHOTO GALLERY

MAN GOES ON ATTACK WITH AN AX

Elyria – A dispute over a girl ended with a hatchet wielding man going on the attack in an apartment complex parking lot.

Police received a call Monday afternoon of a man who had been attacked by man with an ax.

Police responded and found St. John Harris in the parking lot of a church at the corner of College Park and N. Abbe Road – bleeding from the head and hands. Multiple cuts were found on Harris as LifeCare Paramedics treated him.

Police learned that Harris and his wife had gone to the College Park Apartments at the request of his nephew, Terrill Bates. Bates had been involved in an argument over a girl with Demann Wilson earlier in the day, but that argument had ended by the time Bates had called for his Uncle to come to the complex.

Harris told Police that while he and his wife were waiting in the parking lot near the R building, Wilson came out of an apartment waiving an ax and yelling at his nephew. Harris then grabbed a piece of wood fencing and attempted to keep Wilson and the ax away from his nephew. Wilson began swinging the ax and struck Harris on the head, hand and finger.

Harris was able to get the ax away from Wilson as he swung him into a parked car – causing damage to the vehicle. After getting the ax away from Wilson, Harris said he threw it up on top of a nearby apartment building and then continued fighting with Wilson. Wilson’s brother came out of his apartment to try to get into the fight himself, but then both Wilson brothers returned to the apartment.

Witnesses later told Police that Wilson left the complex with an unknown female in an unknown vehicle.

Police made contact with maintenance personnel who assisted in getting an Officer to the roof of the apartment building that was supposed to have the ax. A thorough search of the rooftop, balconies and grounds turned up no ax.

Wilson turned himself into Police at the Station 10 hours later and was charged with Felonious Assault. Wilson refused to comment on the incident with Police.

PHOTO GALLERY

HOUSE FIRE ON MIDDLE AVE

BLAZE DISPLACES 7 ADULTS

Elyria – An early morning house fire on Middle Ave in Elyria has left seven adults wondering where they will live.

Captain Tim Mitchell of the Elyria Fire Department said that the fire started in the fireplace. “The fire got up into a stud pocket and extended through to the second floor and then through to the attic.”

When Firefighters arrived Mitchell said there was heavy smoke showing and a lot of people in the front yard. “The first thing I did was speak to the resident and she advised that all seven occupants were out of the home so I relayed the message of “All Clear” to the crews so they knew there would not be a rescue operation.”

LifeCare Paramedics were called to the scene after one of the residents began having a difficult time breathing. No other injuries were reported.

Neighbors say that the home at 916 Middle Ave had been foreclosed on recently. Mitchell also confirmed that the utilities had been shut off to the home. “It looked like they were planning to move because a lot of the stuff inside was packed up and ready to go. We have allowed a couple of the residents to go back inside of the home with Firefighters escorting them to retrieve some items.”

Mitchell said that total damage is estimated at $25,000 to the structure. Most of the fire damage was to the first floor but there was smoke and water damage throughout the house.

Art Mead Sr., Disaster Chairman of the Lorain County Chapter of the American Red Cross, said that his organization will be taking care of the seven displaced residents and providing them with clothing and temporary shelter.

The Elyria Fire Prevention Bureau is investigating the blaze.


PHOTO GALLERY

WEATHER: FLOOD WARNING & WINDY

The National Weather Service has issued a FLOOD WARNING for the Black River at Elyria. The WARNING is in effect until late Monday evening. A WIND ADVISORY has also been issued.

FLOOD WARNING
At 2 p.m. Sunday the water level was at 8.1 feet and rising. Minor flooding is forecasted for the area. Flood stage is 9.5 feet. The Black River is expected to rise above flood stage this evening and crest near 11.3 feet Monday morning. At 11’, flooding begins in low-lying areas near the river in Elyria.

REMEMBER: NEVER drive your car through flooded roadways; the water may be deeper than it appears. Turn Around – Don’t Drown!


WIND ADVISORY
An area of low pressure over Illinois will move northeast to lower Michigan this evening and then pass to the north of Lake Erie overnight. A strong cold front trailing this low will sweep east across the local area tonight. The front should move into Northwest Ohio late this evening. Winds behind the front will become westerly and quickly increase. Sustained winds of 25 to 30 MPH are likely along with occasional gusts to as much as 50 MPH. The winds should diminish from west to east across the area late tonight as the low moves well off to the northeast.

In addition – a line of showers and thunderstorms are likely ahead of the front this evening. Brief gusty winds can be expected with the thunderstorms. A few gusts greater than 50 MPH are possible with the strongest of the thunderstorms.

The Next 24
Late Afternoon: Occasional showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 55. East wind around 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight: Occasional showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 10pm, then showers likely. Low around 37. Breezy, with a southeast wind 8 to 11 mph becoming west between 22 and 25 mph. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 45. Breezy, with a west wind between 13 and 20 mph, with gusts as high as 34 mph.