Over the last century, Gardner Elementary School has been a source of pride and connection for generations of students, educators, and administrators. Now, it's celebrating a milestone.

“This building has been so well built and so well maintained that it has lasted for 100 years,” said Judith Eddy, a retired Gardner kindergarten teacher of 16 years. 

Principal Nick Overy recalls taking in the original architecture and timeless character of the interior of the building at 10 Church St. “That sense of community is something we take pride in,” to which Superintendent Scott Holcomb added, “The School Committee and central administration continues to pledge their commitment to keep local history alive.”

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Nine people were forced from their home on Sunday afternoon after a fire broke out in New Bedford.

The city’s fire department said in a social media post that crews responding to Pleasant Street around 2:45 p.m. saw fire spreading from second floor windows.

The fire was contained to the second floor, according to the department.

An elderly person living in the home was brought to St. Luke’s Hospital for a not life-threatening medical condition.

The department said four children were among those displaced and multiple cats and dogs were rescued.

From wpri.com.

Steward Health Care CEO Ralph de la Torre is resigning his position with the bankrupt company. 

The resignation of the embattled leader of the failed hospital operator in Massachusetts and other states takes effect tomorrow. 

De la Torre has faced major criticism for living a lavish lifestyle that included yachts and private jet travel.  He's the company's largest shareholder, and Steward did not indicate whether de la Torre would remain as a shareholder once he departs.

Getting around the city has taken a turn as a new ordinance for trolley fares is taking effect.

Riders of the Fall River trolley will pay $5 for an adult ticket and will pay a new fare of $2 for any child under 12, according to a newly passed city ordinance. For veterans, seniors and active-duty members, though, ticket prices will be discounted. The exact rate for those groups has not yet been determined.

The “trolley experience is completely cashless,” according to its webpage. Riders are required to purchase tickets online ahead of their trip. Previously, under a limited-time pilot program to celebrate its launch and revive tourism, the trolley was free for children under 12.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Thursday was considered a good day for town personnel who work at the harbormaster's office in Westport, as work crews pulled a collapsed boathouse out of the water that had landed right in front of their office and dock at 2061 Main Road about a month ago.

"When it came down, it landed on one of our boats," said Westport Deputy Director of Marine Services Gary Tripp. "It didn't do much damage, but we haven't been able to use that side of the dock. ... So it's been inconvenient for us, to say the least."

As of around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Tripp said the main structure had been lifted out of the water by crane.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

An Attleboro man is currently wanted by Swansea police for allegedly selling multiple cars he didn’t own at his used car business.

Since May, police said they have received around 25 reports from people claiming they were defrauded by Bristol County Auto Exchange in Swansea.

Edward Cicciu allegedly received cars on loan from a local auction but did not obtain the titles. Police said the 46-year-old put the cars up for sale at his business, Bristol County Auto Exchange, on Grand Army of the Republic Highway.

See more at wpri.com.

The CEO of bankrupt Steward Health Care is criticizing the U.S. Senate for seeking a contempt of Congress charge against him. 

Ralph de la Torre says the Senate is violating his constitutional rights by trying to force him to testify before them in violation of the Fifth Amendment. 

The Senate is requesting that the Justice Department prosecute de la Torre for ignoring their subpoena.  A Senate committee sought to question de la Torre over the collapse of the hospital company, but he did not show up for the hearing.

NEW BEDFORD – Portuguese film festival CineMar is bringing free screenings of several animation and short movies to the New Bedford Whaling Museum and Bristol Community College’s LusoCentro.

In its fourth edition, CineMar highlights sea-themed Portuguese cinema, emphasizing its role as a bridge between cultures. The initiative showcases the rich Atlantic heritage that connects Portugal and the United States. 

“As in previous editions, this year’s event will take place in a hybrid format (online and in-person) in school auditoriums, museums, libraries, among others, with activities taking place in Portugal and the United States,” said Maria do Ce?u Oliveira, the CineMar director and coordinating teacher for the Portuguese National Cinema Plan.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

The escape of seven large bulls from a rodeo at a North Attleboro mall is being blamed on a faulty fence pin. 

The rodeo organizers met with North Attleboro planners this week to explain the situation.  The fence was breached at the one day rodeo at the Emerald Square Mall on Sunday. 

Six of the escaped bulls were captured a short time after they took off, but one remained free until being caught Monday night near the mall on Route One.

Steward Health Care CEO Ralph de la Torre could face prison for ignoring a congressional subpoena. 

The U.S. Senate has voted unanimously to refer a contempt of Congress charge to the Justice Department for prosecution.  The head of the bankrupt hospital chain has been accused of paying himself and other top executives excessive compensation as the company went bankrupt. 

If convicted of contempt, de la Torre could be sentenced to up to a year in federal prison.

Officials in Fall River passed an ordinance Tuesday night that would allow police to fine those experiencing homelessness.

The ordinance means people could be arrested for residing in a public space even if there is no room for them to stay in shelters.

Over the past few weeks, there has been an ongoing debate at city council meetings about the unauthorized camping ordinance.

Some of those experiencing homelessness, including veterans, shared their stories about how they have struggled to keep up with the increasing cost of rent, leading them to live out of their cars or find a shelter to stay in.

See more at wpri.com.

An 18-year-old from Massachusetts has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of 17-year-old Khamitri Cole in Taunton on Sept. 19.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s office said Kareem Gendraw was arrested around 9:30 p.m. in Medford by members of the Massachusetts State Police and Violent Apprehension Section.

Gendraw is accused of shooting and killing Cole inside a mobile home on Lothrop Steet. Cole was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gendraw is also charged with carrying an illegal firearm. He is set to be arraigned on Wednesday.

From wpri.com.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee isn’t committing to any timeline on when the Washington Bridge may be completed.

In March, state officials said they planned to reopen a new westbound Washington Bridge by 2026. That same month, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who was in Rhode Island to tour the bridge, said he believed that would be an aggressive goal, but one that must be met.

When asked during a live interview on 12 News at 4 on Tuesday whether that timeline still held up, McKee said, “let’s find out,” backing away from the original fall 2026 deadline.

When pressed on whether the project’s end date would extend into 2027 or 2028, McKee declined to go into specifics. “As quickly as it can be done, as safely as it can be done,” he said.

Earlier this month, demolition on the bridge got underway but was later paused due to legal reasons.

The timeframe for selecting a contractor also remains unclear. The state’s initial request for proposals ended with no bidders, but McKee said “some action” is “imminent.”

From wpri.com.

 At Pilgrim High School in Warwick, football players wear helmet covers called “Guardian Caps” that help prevent concussions.

Rhode Island State Representative Joseph McNamara says he plans to introduce legislation this session that would require players at all Rhode Island high schools to wear the protective gear.

“Parents are concerned, and if we can make this sport safer, it will benefit everyone,” McNamara told 12 News on Monday.

Blake Simpson is the head football coach at Pilgrim High School. He said the gear could help protect players and increase the team’s enrollment too.

Guardian Caps are pads the players wear over their helmets to reduce the risk of head injuries.

More at wpri.com.

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — A Dartmouth man was arraigned Monday in connection with the stabbing death of his girlfriend in New Bedford.

Tyler Dow Baglini, 31, is charged with the murder of 31-year-old Kerri Fidalgo.

New Bedford police were alerted to the situation when Baglini arrived arrived at St. Luke’s Hospital on Friday, claiming his girlfriend had been stabbed at 86 Atlantic St.

Court documents obtained by 12 News said one of the victim’s sisters told police at the scene that “she did not know anyone named Tyler and everything at the residence was fine.” As police were about to leave, the sister reportedly screamed outside the apartment, having found Fidalgo unresponsive in the basement with multiple stab wounds.

More at wpri.com.

NORTH ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI) — A bull that escaped from a rodeo this past weekend at the Emerald Square Mall was captured on Monday night, not far from where the animal made its initial escape.

A total of eight bulls escaped on Sunday. One was caught quickly and six others were rounded up behind a home on Prescott Street in Attleboro, according to the North Attleboro Fire Department.

People working with the rodeo searched for the bull for hours on Monday, walking around carrying ropes and even riding on horseback.

The remaining bull was captured and loaded back onto a trailer around 8:15 p.m. on Route 1, a short distance from the mall.

From wpri.com.

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — The Bristol County Attorney’s office said they have arrested a man in connection to Friday’s stabbing death on Atlantic St. in New Bedford.

Police said 31-year-old Tyler Dow Baglini of Dartmouth was taken into custody shortly after the incident.

Just before 5 p.m., New Bedford Police were called to Atlantic St. for a report of a stabbing.

The victim, later identified as Kerri Fidalgo, 31, from New Bedford, was taken to Saint Luke’s Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.

See more at wpri.com.

NORTH ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI) — First responders are still searching for one of the eight loose bulls that escaped from a rodeo Sunday at the Emerald Square Mall.

The fire department said around 12:30 p.m. the bulls ran through the parking lot and jumped over a fence toward the woods.

One bull was found quickly and six others were found stuck behind a home on Prescott Street in Attleboro, the department said.

Those bulls were corralled with the help of New England Rodeo and other law enforcement agencies.

Chris Mooney said while looking outside he saw “six bulls coming right down the road,” eventually making their way into his backyard.

See more at wpri.com.

FAIRHAVEN, Mass. (WPRI) — An elementary school in Fairhaven is closed on Monday after a fire broke out Sunday night.

Crews responded to the East Fairhaven School around 7:30 p.m. and found flames coming from one of the classrooms on the second floor.

School officials posted on social media that the building is closed while the minor smoke damage is cleaned up.

Crews believe it started from an electrical issue but the cause remains under investigation.

From wpri.com.

Full contact boxing between trainees at the Massachusetts State Police Academy has been suspended following a death this month.  This, after a Worcester man died after being injured during a boxing exercise at the academy earlier this month. 

State Police will also be reviewing the defensive tactics program at the academy as a result of the death.  

TAUNTON — “I’m confident everything we have now is on schedule,” MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng said at a South Coast Rail presentation Wednesday evening at Taunton City Hall. 

Eng said the plan the MBTA announced in June to have South Coast Rail operational by May 2025 is on track. 

Construction is nearly complete on the $1 billion South Coast Rail project, which will connect passenger trains to Fall River, New Bedford and Taunton for the first time since 1958, linking the region to Boston. With the exception of a few components, all the train stations are either complete or have temporary certificates of occupancy.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

JOHNSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — State officials said Thursday contractors can resume some prep work for demolishing the closed westbound Washington Bridge, days after the project was abruptly halted for legal reasons.

On Monday, R.I. Department of Transportation spokesperson Charles St. Martin told Target 12 that in cooperation with the state’s legal team, engineers had “reached the point in the demolition” where work had to be paused to preserve evidence” in an ongoing legal battle.

Last month, the state filed a lawsuit against 13 companies, accusing them of failing to identify the bridge’s “worsening structural issues.”

Read more at wpri.com.

SWANSEA, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a rollover crash in Swansea Thursday evening.

Officials say a Subaru Outback was driving in the area of Locust and Oak streets around 7 p.m. when it went over a guardrail, through a vinyl fence, and landed on its side in a backyard.

The driver was taken to Saint Luke’s Hospital to be treated.

No word on the extent of their injuries or what led up to the crash.

From wpri.com.

Prosecutors in Massachusetts are planning to retry Karen Read for murder. 

She's accused of running down her Boston police officer boyfriend with her SUV.  A mistrial was later declared. 

The former defense attorney in the Whitey Bulger case, Hank Brennan who's now a special prosecutor, will take the lead during the new trial. 

Meanwhile Karen Read's attorney is criticizing the DA's office for hiring an outside special prosecutor for her second trial.  Alan Jackson says the fact that the DA is using taxpayer money to hire an outside lawyer speaks volumes about his confidence in his own team.  

SWANSEA — Since the special Town Meeting in May, talk of renovation and adding an addition to the Town Hall Annex at 81 Main St. has gained traction, and an architectural firm, plus a consulting firm, has been selected.

Now, Town Administrator Mallory Aronstein and the Capital Building Committee are inviting residents to attend one of two upcoming public information sessions. 

This latest renovation proposal and renderings is an alternative to the proposed "municipal complex" that was vetoed by a landslide last November, and will be discussed at two information sessions held in the Council on Aging at 260 Ocean Grove Ave. — the first on Oct. 1 and the second on Oct. 10 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. — where residents can ask questions and learn more about the upcoming construction in advance of a vote at a special town meeting scheduled for Oct. 28.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Former Patriots fullback Patrick Pass was arrested Wednesday for allegedly assaulting an elderly person at a gym in North Providence, according to police.

Police said Pass got into an argument with the 82-year-old victim over a piece of exercise equipment on Aug. 28.

Pass, 46, then allegedly shoved the victim, who fell to the floor, suffering lower back injuries.

Pass was arraigned in Kent County District Court on charges of assault on a person over 60 causing bodily injury and disorderly conduct.

His bail was set at $10,000 personal recognizance and he was ordered to have no contact with the victim.

Pass is due back in court for a pre-arraignment conference on Jan. 8, 2025.

From wpri.com.

An inmate at the medium security prison in Bridgewater is dead after an apparent assault Sunday afternoon. 

The Department of Corrections said staff found the unresponsive 47-year-old man in his cell at the Old Colony Correctional Center with what appeared to be wounds from an assault. 

He was pronounced dead at a hospital.  An incident investigation is being conducted.   

DARTMOUTH, Mass. (WPRI) — A Dartmouth woman claims she was attacked by a rabid coyote over the weekend.

Kathy Normore told 12 News she was walking to her mailbox Saturday afternoon when the coyote emerged from a nearby patch of tall grass.

Before Normore could react, the coyote lunged forward and bit her.

“It just latched onto my arm,” Normore recalled, adding that she believed the coyote had been stalking her. “It was instantaneous.”

Normore said the coyote took off and she hasn’t seen it since, but she’s worried it will return.

“I’m very nervous,” Normore said. “I didn’t leave my house for two days.”

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — The Massachusetts Inspector General’s Office (OIG) has released an extensive report detailing the alleged mismanagement and financial mishandling of the Star Store in downtown New Bedford.

Last fall, the University of Massachusetts (UMass) Dartmouth vacated the Star Store, ending its decades-long use of the facility for arts education.

The university cited a “lack of available funding” for the decision, raising concerns from local officials and prompting calls for intervention by Gov. Maura Healey.

Read more at wpri.com.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee expects to meet with Hasbro executives by the end of the week in an effort to keep the company from moving its headquarters out of Pawtucket. 

The governor says the state will do everything it can to maintain Hasbro.

Meanwhile, 12-News says it has confirmed that Massachusetts Governor. Maura Healey's economic team informally met with Hasbro executives who are exploring a possible move to the Boston area.

Demolition work on the westbound Washington Bridge has been put on hold to preserve evidence in the state's lawsuit against companies that worked on the span. 

Governor Dan McKee and Attorney General Peter Neronha say engineers for RIDOT have reached the point in the demolition where work must be paused so evidence in the legal case is not destroyed. 

They say the goal is to be able to continue demolition as swiftly as possible while ensuring important evidence is preserved.

Attorney General Andrea Campbell is in discussions about the direction of the investigation into the death of a State Police trainee. 

Campbell says she's talking with Worcester DA Joe Early about who will handle the probe into the death of Enrique Delgado-Garcia.  He died from injuries suffered during a boxing training exercise last Thursday. 

Early's office has jurisdiction because it happened at the State Police Academy in New Braintree.  Early says he's conflicted because the victim used to work in his office. 

Homeless families unable to find shelter have begun returning to Logan International Airport in Boston. 

Families began arriving at the airport Monday night and early Tuesday, with some sleeping outside the terminal because of concerns of being thrown out. 

The state banned sleeping in the terminal in June when dozens of families began staying overnight on the floor of Terminal E.  Some in the group had been to a family welcome center in Quincy on Monday, but say they headed to Logan when no other options were available.

SWANSEA — Years of tentative plans to build a replacement for the Joseph Case Junior High School at 195 Main St. are finally moving forward.

Swansea’s School Building Committee has hired PMA Consultants, LLC as project manager. Chad Crittenden, managing director of PMA Consultants, said they expect to meet with Swansea’s School Building Committee to discuss next steps and decide on a timeline in the coming weeks.  

Late in February, the Massachusetts School Building Authority, a government authority that partners with Mass. communities to support the design and construction of educationally-appropriate, flexible, sustainable, and cost-effective public school facilities, invited five districts to launch a “feasibility study”—Swansea, and Case Jr. High School, was among them.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Loved ones are mourning the loss of a 24-year-old woman who was killed in a crash early Sunday morning in Taunton.

Mallory Humphreys, of Taunton, was a passenger in a car that rear-ended a tractor-trailer while heading east on Route 44, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.

The driver, a 27-year-old man from Fall River, was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Humphreys, however, was pronounced dead at the scene, the DA’s office said.

See more at wpri.com.

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — Hasbro is again considering a move out of Rhode Island.

The toymaking and entertainment giant confirmed Monday it’s exploring options that include moving its headquarters out of its current home in Pawtucket.

Hasbro — which has been headquartered in Rhode Island for over a century — generated more than $5 billion in revenue last year. It’s one of the state’s largest publicly traded companies and employs about 1,400 people locally, according to the latest version of PBN Book of Lists.

Read more at wpri.com.

State officials say all 95 licensed farms with dairy herds have been tested for bird flu, and the results are 100-percent negative. 

The highly contagious bird flu has spread to at least 14 states, but the Department of Agricultural Resources says so far Massachusetts is in the clear. 

The state testing program is expected to be repeated on a regular basis, and officials believe it could serve as a national model.  The department says state farms follow strict safety protocols and produce the highest quality products.

A North Attleboro man has been arrested and accused of conspiring to smuggle laser equipment for the nuclear power industry to Russia. 

Sam Bhambhani and a man from Russia have both been indicted for smuggling, conspiracy to violate or evade export controls.  The men are accused of trying to help Russia illegally obtain cutting edge, American made technology to support the hostile nation's nuclear power program. 

Bhambhani was released on conditions by a judge in Boston federal court last week.

State gas prices fell for the second consecutive week and reached an average of $3.22 per gallon of regular fuel on Monday, down from last week's price of $3.27 per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The average fuel price in state has fallen about 17 cents since last month. According to the EIA, gas prices across the state in the last year have been as low as $3.07 on Jan. 29, 2024, and as high as $3.76 on Aug. 7, 2023.

A year ago, the average gas price in Massachusetts was 13% higher at $3.70 per gallon.

Fall River Public Schools are set to receive $50,000 to support homeless students.

The Healey-Driscoll administration announced Tuesday that 47 public school districts across Massachusetts will receive more than $1.7 million in federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Education grants, supporting more than 20,000 students who are homeless at some point during the school year.

Fall River's amount was determined by the number of grant priorities applied for and the number of enrolled homeless students the district serves.

This school year alone, Fall River has served 198 students and their families facing homelessness, according to Cynthia Couto, director of Parent and Community Engagement Center, and who also serves as the McKinney-Vento district liaison. 

Read more at heraldnews.com.

TAUNTON, Mass. (WPRI) — A 24-year-old woman is dead and a 27-year-old Fall River man is injured after deadly crash on Route 44 in Taunton early Sunday morning.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s office said the woman, Mallory Humphreys of Taunton, was a passenger in a car that hit the back of a tractor trailer truck around 1:24 a.m.

The man driving the car was eastbound on Route 44 at 608 Winthrop Street when he hit the tractor trailer, who was also traveling eastbound, according to the DA’s office.

Humphreys was pronounced dead at the scene.

See more at wpri.com.

Seniors live for big moments in high school football games.

Diman quarterback Sam Perry knew it was his time in Friday's game against non-league opponent Seekonk.

"On that last possession I told myself, I have to do me," said Perry after the Bengals came from behind to edge Seekonk, 13-12, at B.M.C. Durfee High School. "They were bring pressure in every play. I just took advantage of the defense they were playing us."

Trailing 12-6 midway in the fourth quarter, Perry took matters into his own hands with 80 yards staring him in the face. On three separate occasions in the drive, the Bengals QB tucked the ball away and picked up big yardages with his feet.

Read more from Steven Sanchez at heraldnews.com.

WORCESTER, Mass. (WPRI) — The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office is investigating the death of a Massachusetts State Police recruit.

Investigators say 25-year old Enrique Delgado-Garcia died after becoming unresponsive during a boxing training exercise.

He was hit in the head, which knocked him out for ten minutes.

Delgado-Garcia was then rushed to the hospital, but sadly died.

A former academy instructor says that the boxing exercise is something that happens later on in training, to help prepare recruits if something like that every arose.

“The last thing we would want is for a recruit, graduate and go out into the real world and have never been in a confrontation while they’ve now been issued a firearm, pepper spray, a baton,” said Todd McGee, a former MSP academy instructor.

See more at wpri.com.

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — An elderly pedestrian was hit by a car in East Providence Friday evening, according to police.

Police said the pedestrian was struck on Taunton Avenue near the Burger King.

The pedestrian, who has not been identified, was seriously injured and brought to the hospital.

The driver who hit the pedestrian stopped and is cooperating with the investigation, according to police.

It’s unclear if any charges will be filed at this time.

See more at wpri.com.

It was announced Friday the school superintendent in Brockton has resigned. 

Michael Thomas is out one year after an 18-million-dollar deficit was discovered in the fiscal year 2023 budget.  He was placed on administrative leave in February and went on extended medical leave. 

Thomas has denied any mismanagement, however, an independent audit found overspending.

Lack of spending, not enough staff and harm to patients, all caused by the greed and neglect of bankrupt Steward Health Care. 

Those were the messages repeatedly delivered during a hearing Thursday morning held by the U.S. Senate's Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Members heard testimony from witnesses, including two from Massachusetts, who excoriated Steward and the for-profit company’s CEO Dr. Ralph de la Torre, who didn’t attend in defiance of a subpoena.  

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, the committee chairman, called de la Torre the “poster child for the outrageous type of corporate greed permeating the for-profit health care system.” 

Through his attorney, de la Torre said his attendance wasn’t possible while bankruptcy proceedings continue.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

The owners of the historic Nite Owl Diner are looking to brighten up the Flint neighborhood again. 

The city’s Community Preservation Committee on Monday will be asked to spend $125,000 “restoring the iconic owl neon sign back to its original more menacing appearance.” 

It’s unclear what exactly “menacing” means in that context — but the diner’s neon signage and owl figure, sitting silently atop the long-closed restaurant keeping watch over the neighborhood, have been neglected and broken for years. 

If approved, the Community Preservation Act money would also help to repair or install mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. The funding would also provide design services, reconstruct a handicapped-accessible bathroom, and restore windows and the diner’s aluminum skin. 

The board meets Monday at 6 p.m.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — After more than 25 years, New Bedford is set to build a new headquarters for its police department.

Mayor Jon Mitchell unveiled the plans for the new facility on Thursday, alongside Police Chief Paul Oliveira and City Councilman Brian Gomes.

The decision follows a recommendation from the Jensen-Hughes review of police operations last year, which Mitchell said is long overdue.

“It takes time, it takes money, but I think we have to commit ourselves to that because the work that is done here is fundamental to everything that we do,” Mitchell said.

See more at wpri.com.

MANSFIELD, Mass. (WPRI) — Three North Attleboro officers were injured while attempting to take a suspect into custody at a Mansfield hotel Thursday afternoon.

North Attleboro Police Chief Richard McQuade said his officers were at the Red Roof Inn off of Forbes Boulevard trying to serve an outstanding arrest warrant.

The suspect, identified as Kevin Burke, got into his car and took off after being approached by the officers, according to McQuade.

Burke dragged one of the North Attleboro officers with his car, McQuade added, which prompted another to fire one shot in the vehicle’s direction.

McQuade said Burke, who suffered a superficial gunshot wound to his arm, was taken into custody in North Attleboro shortly after abandoning his vehicle. He was brought to the hospital where he received treatment and was released into police custody.

See more at wpri.com.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Though the R.I. Department of Transportation has repeatedly said engineers believe that the eastbound Washington Bridge can handle extra weight from two-way traffic, records obtained by Target 12 show state engineers had concerns earlier this year.

At an April 19 press conference to announce a third lane of westbound traffic would open on the eastbound Washington Bridge, RIDOT Director Peter Alviti assured the public that the added lanes of traffic would not impact the bridge’s condition.

“We had two brand-new reports done on it and they both came back and said that it’s adequate for the use that we’ll be using it for the next several years,” Alviti said at the time.

Records obtained by Target 12 show less than a week later, on April 25, RIDOT filed what’s called a “critical expense request form.” RIDOT spokesperson Charles St. Martin said the term for the expense request is standard and does not mean that the need for the expense is “critical.”

Read more from wpri.com.

The Hulkster was in the house on Wednesday, greeting fans at Yankee Spirits in Swansea and selling his new line of beer to a sold-out crowd. 

WWE pro wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan appeared at liquor stores in Swansea, Attleboro and Foxboro on Wednesday. In Swansea, Hogan posed for photos and signed autographs for the first 250 customers to buy cases of his Real American Beer. 

Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, has been making the rounds of liquor stores nationwide to promote Real American Beer, a brand he co-founded this summer. 

It’s not yet available in all 50 states, but is available in 11, including Rhode Island. 

Hogan recently appeared at several stores in Rhode Island late in August. He's making another appearance in Boston on Thursday.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — “It sounds like a warzone.”

That’s how Providence residents Kelly and Andrew White described the ongoing demolition work happening on the old Washington Bridge, which is less than a mile away from their home.

“It has kept us up late,” Andrew said. “There’s lots of banging … and a lot of loud noises you wouldn’t expect to hear when you’re trying to sleep.”

“I think that the sound is one thing, but the shaking of the whole house — like you’re sleeping and your whole bed is shaking — that’s actually more unnerving,” Kelly added.

The heaviest demolition work happens between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday in order to minimize the traffic impacts.

Read more at wpri.com.

 A 17-year-old boy faces multiple charges after being arrested Wednesday morning outside the Resiliency Preparatory Academy in Fall River.  He was spotted shortly before eleven a.m. by school resource officers who recognized he was not an enrolled student.  He was found to have a loaded gun when he was frisked and he struggled with police in an attempt to avoid being taken into custody. 

The teen's name was not released due to his age.

A woman has been diagnosed with West Nile virus in southern Bristol County, the state Department of Public Health announced Tuesday.

The woman, in her 60s, was one of three cases announced; the others are in Suffolk and Barnstable counties, and are both men in their 60s. 

So far this year, 10 people in Massachusetts have been diagnosed with West Nile, a mosquito-borne disease that can cause mild to serious illness. Last year, there were six human cases. 

In response to the diagnosis, MassDPH raised the risk level for West Nile virus to high in Acushnet, Dartmouth and New Bedford.  

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Police say a yearlong investigation into alleged gun and drug sales through a cloud-based app has taken 39 "ghost gun" Glock pistols and thousands of fentanyl-laced pills out of circulation.

New Bedford police were working in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, according to a press release.

The leading case agent was New Bedford Detective Kevin Barbosa.

A 26-year-old Fall River man with New Bedford ties was arrested in connection with the investigation after he was found allegedly selling illegal narcotics, firearms, and other contraband on a cloud-based app, according to the release.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

REHOBOTH, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a bicyclist was hit by a car in Rehoboth Tuesday evening.

Officers were called to Tremont Street just before 5 p.m. to investigate reports of a bicyclist who was struck by a car.

The bicyclist, identified by police as a 66-year-old Attleboro man, was brought to Rhode Island Hospital with serious injuries.

The driver, an 18-year-old Seekonk woman, is cooperating with the investigation and was later transported to Sturdy Memorial Hospital for evaluation.

It’s unclear at this time if any charges will be filed.

From wpri.com.

The state's annual commemoration of the September eleventh, 2011 terror attacks is being held today in Boston. 

A moment of silence and reading of the names of the victims of the attacks 23 years ago today will take place at 8:30 a.m. on the front steps of the State House.  A commemoration service will follow in the House of Representatives chamber, and a wreath laying will take place in the afternoon in Boston Public Garden. 

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu will preside over the wreath laying ceremony in the 9/11 Contemplative Garden.

DEDHAM — Prosecutors argue that releasing the work phone history of the state police lead investigator in the Karen Read murder case could jeopardize other cases.

The Norfolk District Attorney’s Office said in a new court filing that it had it received data from the cell phone of suspended Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, who was the lead investigator in the case of Read.

Read is a Mansfield woman accused of killing her Boston police officer boyfriend, Braintree native John O'Keefe. The trial ended in a mistrial in July. Judge Beverly Cannone declared a mistrial in the case in July. She has scheduled a second trial to begin Jan. 27, 2025.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Planning ahead for the Nov. election in Massachusetts? Sample ballots will be available online or by mail very soon.

Blank sample ballots are available for the upcoming statewide election on Nov. 5, when Massachusetts residents will be casting their votes for president, U.S. and state senator, U.S. and state representative and several other offices so voters can research and prepare ahead of their trip to the polls.

Five ballot measures will also be voted on in the upcoming election, with questions including the elimination of MCAS as a high school graduation requirement, unionization for transportation workers and minimum wage for tipped workers.

Learn how you can see a copy of your blank sample ballot ahead of the election at heraldnews.com.

DIGHTON, Mass. (WPRI) — The Dighton-Rehoboth girls field hockey team has forfeited their upcoming game under a new athletic policy that was passed in June.

Somerset-Berkley has a boy on their team, which is allowed under state law when a school doesn’t offer a male alternative for the sport.

After a Dighton-Rehoboth field hockey player was seriously injured by a male player’s shot last season, the district’s school committee passed an updated policy allowing teams to opt out of a game.

Dighton-Rehoboth Superintendent Bill Runey said, “There are times where we have to place a higher value on safety than on victory.”

12 News has reached out to Somerset-Berkley and are waiting to hear back.

From wpri.com.

One person is dead after crashing a vehicle into a Seekonk car dealership Monday. 

It happened at the First Stop Auto Sales store on Route 6 just before four o'clock yesterday afternoon.  The driver of a pickup truck veered off the road and hit several cars in the dealership parking lot. 

The driver was pronounced dead at the hospital and a passenger and another woman were treated for minor injuries.  

State gas prices fell for the second consecutive week and reached an average of $3.27 per gallon of regular fuel on Monday, down from last week's price of $3.32 per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The average fuel price in state has fallen about 16 cents since last month. According to the EIA, gas prices across the state in the last year have been as low as $3.07 on Jan. 29, 2024, and as high as $3.76 on Aug. 7, 2023.

A year ago, the average gas price in Massachusetts was 12% higher at $3.70 per gallon.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Earlier this summer, the Swansea Free Public Library moved into the basement of the First Christian Congregational Church (known as the “Olde White Church”) at 1113 Grand Army of the Republic Highway. Books, computers, and regular scheduled programming settled in immediately, but for librarians and library patrons alike, the relocation inspired them to adapt.

In fact, they’re embracing this time.

“I think this is actually an opportunity for us to be ready for change and kind of forecast — as best we can — how things will change for us when we go back,” Library Director Jocelyn Tavares said.

She added that this is an opportune time to test and hone certain skills and “to make sure we're doing what we need to,” especially when it comes to communicating with one another. 

Read more at heraldnews.com.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Drivers will see some road closures and detours this week as demolition work continues on the westbound side of the Washington Bridge.

Bridge deck and beam demolition began Sunday night with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) closing down Gano Street where the road passes under I-195.

The road closure will occur from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. through Friday morning, according to RIDOT.

Drivers can follow a signed detour using India, Wickenden, South Main and South Water streets. The on-ramp to I-195 at Gano Street will still remain open.

Demolition on the eastern side of the westbound lanes will begin next week. While no traffic impacts are expected, a one-week closure of Waterfront Drive is expected later this month.

See more at wpri.com.

WAREHAM, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a van crashed into a home and caught on fire in Wareham on Sunday.

Crews responding to Marion Road around 6:30 p.m. found the van on its back two tires with significant damage to the home.

The fire was quickly knocked down and the driver was transported to the hospital. The extent of their injuries are unknown.

Officials say the home was vacant at the time of the crash since it was undergoing renovations.

See more at wpri.com.

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — Two people were killed and three others were hospitalized after a serious crash on I-195 Friday morning, according to Massachusetts State Police.

Troopers responded to the rollover crash near Exit 24A around 9:35 a.m. Police said five people were inside the vehicle at the time.

Police said two occupants were pronounced dead at the scene, while the other three were transported to a local hospital.

See more at wpri.com.

Justin Marques and the defending Division 6 champion Fairhaven wasn't satistified winning the program's fourth Super Bowl last season, they're hungry for more.

It showed in Friday's season opener against Durfee.

"It feels great winning tonight," said Marques after the Blue Devils rolled past the Hilltoppers in the season opener for both teams, 44-7. "None of (tonight) is possible without that offensive line. They're our biggest force of the game. They're out there every single time, getting low, running hard and getting us the ball."

Marques started the evening, rushing for 55 yards on 12 carries and scored a touchdown as Fairhaven took a 21-7 lead into halftime. But the senior star running back was all business in the second half, rushing for 106 yards and adding three more touchdowns. Marques finished the night with 161 yards on 22 carries.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

It was another dazzling performance from Sam Perry in the season opener on Friday.

The Diman senior quarterback accounted for all four touchdowns as the Bengals collected a tight 27-21 road win against non-league opponent Joseph Case at Joseph Case High School.

Perry threw for a pair of touchdowns for Diman (1-0) — one to Jame McKenzie and another to Logan Uon. He also had two rushing touchdowns in the win. Uon and Peytonn Massey each had interceptions on defense.

Sophomore Aedan Borges rushed for 108 yards on 19 carries and scored a touchdown for the Cardinals (0-1). Quarterback Luke Beaulieu went 10-for-16 passing for 126 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

In what Gov. Maura Healey's administration has dubbed the "Largest Offshore Wind Selection in New England History," Massachusetts officials have made the state's selections known relative to the latest round of offshore wind project bidding. Massachusetts' total of 2,678 selected megawatts represents inclusion in three different wind farm projects, all of which are connected to the SouthCoast region: SouthCoast Wind, New England Wind 1, and Vineyard Wind 2.

"Through this procurement, offshore wind will power over 1.4 million Massachusetts homes and reduce the state’s carbon emissions by the equivalent of taking one million gas-powered cars off the road," the Healey-Driscoll Administration wrote in a press release. "Collectively, these projects will create thousands of jobs and generate billions of economic activity."

TIVERTON – Town Councilors and representatives of Longplex are meeting in executive session on Sept. 9 on Longplex’s plans for developing an indoor ice skating rink, a high-end parking/car garage and other possibilities for the North Tiverton Industrial Park. 

Town Administrator Christopher Cotta did not comment on Longplex’s proposal but confirmed that there would be an executive session meeting on Sept. 9. That meeting was originally scheduled in late August but was postponed. 

Longplex’s lawyer and representative Dan Reilly has detailed what Longplex is proposing and opposing. 

Owner Jim Long has offered $2 million to develop approximately 40 acres for the garage and the ice skating building, according to Reilly. 

Reilly also mentioned other issues that Longplex will raise during the executive session.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

It's the home stretch for the race to the White House, and both campaigns are making their case in Massachusetts.

Both candidates — former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris — have rallied across the country, including in parts of New England, to rouse support from voters.

So what about Massachusetts?

There are 11 electoral votes up for grabs in the state in November. The state's residents have voted in all 59 presidential elections, and they have backed the winning candidate 39 times, according to Statista — a 66% success rate.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

DARTMOUTH, Mass. (WPRI) — Inmates in Massachusetts are currently allowed to make free unlimited calls.

But Bristol County Sheriff Paul Heroux is expressing concern over the costly service.

The Massachusetts Department of Corrections said that allowing inmates to maintain connections with their loved ones improves their outcomes and reduces recidivism.

While Heroux supports the service as a whole, he believes limitations should be put in place.

“It is essential for inmates to stay connected and receive family support as they reintegrate,” Heroux said. “But a need for reasonableness, balance and compromise is crucial when it comes to unlimited inmate calls.”

Inmates at the Bristol County jail are currently allowed to make phone calls between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.

See more at wpri.com.

Steward Health Care CEO Ralph de la Torre might be held in contempt of Congress for refusing a subpoena to testify. 

Senator Ed Markey says they are working on a bipartisan contempt citation against the leader of the bankrupt company. 

An attorney for de la Torre informed a Senate committee this week that he cannot testify because of ongoing bankruptcy proceedings. 

Steward is in the process of selling six of its eight Massachusetts hospitals, while two others in the state closed last weekend. 

TAUNTON, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway into a motorcycle crash in Taunton that seriously injured two men Wednesday afternoon.

First responders were called to Rama Street and Hodges Avenue around 4 p.m. for reports of a crash between a motorcycle and a pickup truck.

Police said the motorcyclist, an 18-year-old Attleboro man, and his passenger, a 20-year-old Seekonk man, were both brought to Morton Hospital.

See more at wpri.com.

A judge has approved the sale of six hospitals in Massachusetts owned by bankrupt Steward Health Care. 

The bankruptcy judge in Texas ruled that Boston Medical Center can buy St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Brighton and Good Samaritan Medical Center in Brockton. 

Rhode Island based Lifespan is allowed to purchase St. Anne's in Fall River and Morton Hospital in Taunton. 

Lawrence General Hospital now can buy Holy Family hospitals in Methuen and Haverhill. 

Steward hospitals in Dorchester and Ayer closed last weekend after no buyer was found.

Governor Maura Healey has reached outside the department for a new leader of the Massachusetts State Police. 

Healey has named former New Jersey State Police lieutenant colonel Geoffrey Noble to be State Police colonel.  Healey says Noble has dedicated his career to public service and delivered results at the highest levels of the New Jersey State Police. 

Noble says the appointment is a true honor, and plans to be a leader who is accessible, transparent and committed to the highest standards of integrity.

The CEO of bankrupt Steward Health Care is refusing a subpoena to testify before Congress about the company's demise. 

Ralph de la Torre says he risks running afoul of a federal order prohibiting him from discussing the mediation efforts and the company's bankruptcy proceedings. 

The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee has scheduled a hearing for September 12th to explore how management decisions at Steward have impacted patient care.

Bernard J. McDonald III has won another six-year term as Bristol County register of deeds in the Fall River district, weathering his first electoral challenge in 30 years.

Based on unofficial vote totals from Fall River, Freetown, Somerset and Swansea, McDonald won 5,118 votes to 4,436 for challenger Christopher Carreiro. Both are Democrats; since no Republican or other party fielded a competitor, McDonald is guaranteed a win in the general election in November.

Carreiro, an attorney, was formerly a longtime Swansea selectman and School Committee member. In January, he announced he would not seek re-election to the Board of Selectmen to focus on the run for county office.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

A 39-year-old man is dead following a motorcycle crash in Taunton. 

Police say the unidentified man from East Taunton crashed on Charles Colton Road yesterday afternoon.  He was rushed to Morton Hospital, but did not survive. 

Police say there were no other vehicles involved in the crash, which remains under investigation.

Attorney and U.S. Marines veteran John Deaton has won the Republican primary for U.S. Senate. 

Deaton easily defeated industrial engineer Bob Antonellis and Quincy City Councilor Ian Cain in yesterday's primary. 

Deaton will now face two term incumbent Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren in the general election in November. 

He moved to Massachusetts from Rhode Island last year, and largely has used his own wealth to fund his campaign.

The 2024 primary election is here, with voters in the Democratic and Republican parties set to narrow down the competition in each party before the general election in November.   

Though most of the races are uncontested, with voters being asked to affirm the sole candidates running, two of the races have garnered interest. 

From who's running to how to take part, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming primary: 

Read more from Dan Medeiros at heraldnews.com.

Today is primary day in Massachusetts. 

The main event is the three way primary battle for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate and the right to challenge incumbent Elizabeth Warren. 

The candidates are Quincy City Council President Ian Cain, attorney John Deaton and industrial engineer Bob Antonellis. 

Recent polls have shown Warren with large leads against any of the three Republican hopefuls as she seeks a third term in the Senate.

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after a man on an electric bicycle was struck by a car in Fall River on Sunday.

Officers were called to the intersection of Rodman and Lonsdale Streets around 12:15 p.m. for reports of a collision between a bicycle and vehicle.

According to police, the bicyclist used a hand signal to indicate a left turn onto Lonsdale Street when he was hit by a maroon-colored car.

See more at wpri.com.

FAIRHAVEN, Mass. (WPRI) — Police have taken a man into custody following a four-hour-long standoff outside a Fairhaven home.

Fairhaven Police were called to the area of Ebony Street and Bluepoint Road just before 4:30 p.m. for reports of a disturbance.

Upon arrival, officers found a 56-year-old Fairhaven man had barricaded himself inside a camper on the property. The suspect was allegedly armed with a knife.

See more at wpri.com.

FAIRHAVEN, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway into a shooting that happened in Fairhaven on Sunday night.

Officers were called to the Main Street and Harding Road intersection around 9:20 p.m. after reports of a shooting.

Police said when crews got there, they found a person with a gunshot wound who was then brought to St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford for non-life-threatening injuries.

According to police, three people were detained in connection to the investigation.

Massachusetts State Police and the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office are helping with the investigation.

Those who have any information about this incident are urged to contact Fairhaven police by calling (508)-997-7421.

From wpri.com.