A STORMY TUESDAY NIGHT

A line of strong storms blew through central Ohio Tuesday night packing high winds, heavy rain and plenty of lightning. No significant damage has been reported.

FATAL CRASHES IN LICKING COUNTY

The Licking County Safe Communities Coalition reported one crash fatality in March. Year-to-date there have been two crash fatalities in Licking County. At this time last year, there were four crash fatalities.

CAUSE OF FATAL FIRE DETERMINED TO BE ACCIDENTAL

Following an exhaustive investigation into a fatal fire on April 1, the Lancaster Fire Department has been unable to determine what started the fire, however, the available evidence supports the conclusion that the cause was accidental. Three people – a 27-year-old man, a 26-year-old woman and their 9-month-old boy died in the blaze at a duplex in the 600 block of East Fifth Avenue. Two people, including the couple's 5-year-old daughter, were rescued from the burning home.

RIVER ROAD PUBLIC HEARING

Later this month, the Licking County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss a proposal that would keep motorists from turning right onto state Route 16 east from River Road.

Commissioner Tim Bubb said the Ohio Department of Transportation is petitioning to remove an access point onto SR16 East from River Road because of safety concerns in the area. The public hearing will be held Tuesday, April 28 at 6:00 p.m. in the county administration building in downtown Newark.

SAVING FOR A SUMMER VACATION

With 90% of Americans planning to travel this year, the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions reminds Ohioans that creating a summer vacation starts with a solid financial plan that supports both fun and affordability. Deputy Superintendent Rob Rutkowski says you should be setting aside money now for your vacation.

Rutkowski said Ohioans can learn more about planning and spending for vacations by visiting www.com.ohio.gov.

YOUTH TURKEY SEASON

Ohio’s youth spring turkey hunting season takes place on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 in the south zone which includes all of central Ohio. During the 2025 spring wild turkey season, youth hunters checked 1,740 birds.