Wesley Araujo is best described as a young man who loves competing in sports.

There wasn't any activity — football, basketball or baseball — the Fall River native couldn't handle.

Throughout all his hard work and preparation for sports that began as a youth at the age of 4, the talented multi-sport Diman athlete is now preparing to take on the biggest battle of his life.

Araujo was recently diagnosed with Leukemia and is currently in Hasbro Children's Hospital receiving chemotherapy, according to his mom Michelle's message on Araujo's GoFundMe page that was organized by Maplewood AAU assistant baseball coach Jeffrey Medeiros. So far, 86% ($51,492) out of a goal of $60,000 have been raised.

See more at heraldnews.com.

A Lakeville detective coordinated a regional investigation into a series of vape shop break-ins across three states, according to authorities.

Lakeville Police Detective Robert Schiffer’s efforts successfully connected two break-ins at a Harding Street vape shop to others elsewhere in Massachusetts, as well as in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

The first break-in happened on Dec. 5, when the suspects used a stolen vehicle to force their way into the vape shop overnight. Police said thousands of dollars in merchandise and cash were taken from the shop, and the building sustained extensive damage.

The second break-in on Dec. 13 was similar and appeared to involve the same suspects, according to police.

See more at wpri.com.

Police have arrested a Fall River man accused of breaking into and stealing from a restaurant earlier this month.

John Lengyel, 63, has been charged with breaking and entering into a building during the nighttime and larceny from a building.

Surveillance footage shows a man shattering a glass panel on the front door on Fiesta Mexican Restaurant the night of Jan. 11.

Police said the suspect could be seen in the footage crawling through the broken door, and taking a cash lockbox from the counter. He then climbed back through the door and took off running down Rhode Island Avenue.

See more at wpri.com.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office said a mother and her son were killed in a double shooting Friday night.

Investigators say just after 8 p.m., Fall River police were called to a home on Barnes Street for a report of a shooting.

When officers arrived on scene, they found two victims that had been shot. They are identified as 54-year-old Elizabeth Almeida, and her son, 25-year-old Nicholas Almeida.

They were both taken to the hospital where they were pronounced deceased.

Police say the suspect, identified as 54-year-old Arlington Cole, who was in a relationship with Elizabeth, was located at the scene along with a gun. 

See more at wpri.com.

Police are investigating a crash that happened on Route 18 near the Purchase Street on-ramp in New Bedford Friday night.

12 News spotted four damaged cars on the highway, including a New Bedford police cruiser.

It’s unclear at this time what caused the crash or if anyone was injured.

See more at wpri.com.

Saint Vincent’s Services, a behavioral outpatient health and congregate care placement provider for youth and families in Southeastern Massachusetts, is upgrading its central dining services area this spring, according to the Diocese of Fall River.

This Valentine’s Day, Saint Vincent’s Services is launching a special fundraising campaign to support an expansion and renovation of its cafeteria—a central gathering space where children and staff come together to eat, connect, and heal. Fundraising for this project began at the 2025 Summer Celebration Gala in June at Shining Tides.

The proposed cafeteria expansion represents an investment of nearly $500,000 and will modernize a space that has not been updated in decades. Planned improvements will include an expanded outdoor patio, new outdoor seating, upgraded windows, and additional facility enhancements designed to improve functionality, accessibility, and overall experience.

See more at fallriverreporter.com.

The Fall River Fire Department responded to a fire at a residence on Thursday afternoon.

According to scanner transmissions, at approximately 1:30 p.m., a call came into dispatch for a fire at 90 Grove Street, a 3 story multi-family home.

Upon arrival, crews could see smoke showing and encountered a fire in the exterior walls.

All residents safely evacuated from the building and were accounted for.

See more at fallriverreporter.com.

Governor Healey announced legislation and an executive order aimed at limiting federal immigration enforcement in Massachusetts.

The proposal would ban warrantless civil ICE arrests in places like courthouses, schools, hospitals, and houses of worship, while restricting new cooperation agreements without a public safety need.

Healey says the actions are necessary to protect communities, while critics argue they could complicate law enforcement efforts.

New Bedford community organizer Craig Swallow is challenging long-time congressman Rep. Bill Keating, D-Mass., he announced Jan. 28, becoming the latest Democrat to launch a 2026 primary campaign against an incumbent in Massachusetts.

Swallow, who was born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts, is the co-leader of Indivisible "Do Something" South Coast New England, a grassroots community group. The national Indivisible group has been behind many of the anti-Trump protests over the past year. 

Keating has represented Massachusetts’s 9^th Congressional District, which encompasses Cape Cod and the Islands, the South Coast and the South Shore, since he was first elected in 2010. Swallow will be his first primary challenger since 2018.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Having accumulated over a foot of the white stuff and more snow possibly falling this coming weekend, some Fall River drivers found themselves in automobile accidents during the storm — from minor fender-benders to collisions with the neighborhood plow truck.

The Fall River Police Department responded to 16 individual motor vehicle accidents during the worst of the storm, though it would it be tough to say where exactly these accidents occurred.

“All over the city,” reported city police Sgt. Ross Aubin, speaking to the location of the crashes that occurred between Saturday night and Tuesday, Jan. 27. 

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Vineyard Wind 1 picked up a legal tailwind on Jan. 27 after a federal judge stayed a Trump administration stop-work order that halted the nearly finished project just more than a month ago.

Judge Brian E. Murphy of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted the company a preliminary injunction, blocking a Dec. 22 suspension order the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management issued to five major East Coast offshore wind projects.

The ruling allows Vineyard Wind 1, a joint venture of Avangrid Renewables and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, to restart full construction activities in its lease area south of Martha’s Vineyard and southwest of Nantucket while the broader legal challenge moves through the court system. The project brings power ashore at Covell Beach in Barnstable, connecting to the New England power grid by way of a substation in Hyannis.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

The former Davol School building at 112 Flint St. has been sold to the tune of $150,000, or a little less than half what the building is worth.

At the Jan. 27 City Council meeting, councilors voted unanimously to act on a purchase and sales agreement and hand over the blighted property, long a thorn in city's side that snagged council deliberations from time to time. City Councilor Linda Pereira was not present at the meeting.

Previously, the development of the former school was under review by the City Council's Committee on Real Estate, tasked with evaluating Contractors Landing LLC's plans for the blighted property.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Patriots fans will have a chance to show their support on Sunday as the team gets ready to play in the Super Bowl.

A sendoff rally will be held at Gillette Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 1, before the Patriots depart for Santa Clara, California.

The event is free, but tickets are required. The team said the registration link will be posted Thursday morning on Patriots.com and its social media pages. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

See more at wpri.com.

Katherine Bodwell was shocked when her 7-year-old son got off the school bus with a huge bruise on his forehead earlier this month.

Bodwell brought her son inside and asked him what happened.

“He said he was kicked several times by his teacher,” Bodwell recalled.

Bodwell’s son, who has autism, is a student at Carlton Viveiros Elementary School. She wasted no time calling the school to find out exactly what happened.

See more at wpri.com.

Investigators are still looking into the cause of Sunday's bus fire in Darien, CT. 

The driver of the DATTCO charter that was heading to Fall River said the heat stopped working on the bus before the fire.  Once the heat shut off, the driver said he was heading to the first rest stop, but there was a loud noise and black smoke started coming from the back of the vehicle. 

The bus was traveling along I-95 amid a winter storm that prompted officials to declare a travel ban for state highways.    

Come March 11, the town will be without an administrator, Mallory Aronstein, who has served as Swansea’s Town Administrator the last five years, announced at the Jan. 15 Board of Selectmen meeting.

She said she is planning her departure from Swansea around the March 10 Select Board meeting in time to finalize the town budget and the annual Town Meeting warrant. In doing so, she hopes to “leave Swansea with the best foot forward during a busy time,” she said at the Thursday night meeting of the town’s Selectmen. 

She has confirmed her appointment as Mansfield's next Town Manager.

“I am staunchly grateful for my time in Swansea,” Aronstein said, calling the coastal town a “gem” in southeastern Massachusetts, while recounting memorable projects and experiences that brought her face-to-face with businesses and residents.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Route 6 in Westport was briefly shut down Tuesday night after three separate crashes happened within an hour of one another, according to police.

Westport Police Lt. Bryan McCarthy told 12 News Route 6 between Davis Road and Route 88 was closed for roughly three hours due to the crashes.

Several patients were brought to local hospitals with injuries that do not appear to be life-threatening, he added.

McCarthy said one of the crashes involved a semi-truck that started leaking diesel fuel, which took some time to clean up.

See more at wpri.com.

More than 100 congressional Democrats are now calling for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, including Massachusetts Rep. Jake Auchincloss, who joined Community Focus on 12 News at 4 Tuesday.

In the wake of the deadly shootings of American citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, Auchincloss said he is appalled not only by the violence, but also by the administration’s response.

“This administration is trying to gaslight the American public to disbelieve their own eyes and ears,” he told 12 News. “The American public isn’t going to stand for it.”

See more at wpri.com.

The city is looking for someone to knock down the old Bedford Street police station.

The city on Monday, Jan. 26, published a request for proposals to demolish the building at 158 Bedford St., which is currently uninhabitable and likely contaminated with asbestos and lead.

Fall River’s Purchasing Department will have solicitation packages for bidders available beginning Wednesday, Jan. 28; bids are due Feb. 26 at 2 p.m.

The move comes about a year after the building was deeded back to the city, after a developer was unable to remediate the property and turn it into market-rate apartments due to safety issues. For at least a decade, the building has been considered an eyesore overdue for the wrecking ball.

See more at heraldnews.com.

With up to 14 inches of snow blanketing the city after a weekend storm, Fall River’s stepped-up efforts to provide for an increase in unhoused residents seeking emergency shelter to keep warm brought dozens more in out of the cold. 

Thirty of the city’s homeless turned up at the Timao Center at 371 Bay St., Mayor Paul Coogan said in an interview Monday, Jan. 26. Coogan, who visited the Timao Center on Monday morning, said he found residents watching television while avoiding the lousy weather. 

“There's no buses running today, so there's no way for them to get around,” he said. He added that Fall River’s homeless population typically relies on the bus system to navigate the city.

See more at heraldnews.com.

When snow moves in, so do parking bans. But some New Bedford residents couldn’t find another place to park their cars, which meant several streets went completely uncleared.

In a video taken by New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell, a group of people could be seen assisting a pregnant neighbor who’s due to give birth in a few days after she wasn’t able to relocate her car in time for plows to come through.

“There was so much snow that we couldn’t really do much, but the tow trucks were so generous that they moved her out to an area where they weren’t going to take it and move it to a place where she can have her car and not get fined for it, which was a blessing,” said Jose Medeiros, one of the neighbors who helped out.

Not everyone who violated the parking ban was so lucky, however. So many cars were parked on Reynolds Street that plows couldn’t get through until around 11 p.m. on Sunday, neighbors told 12 News.

See more at wpri.com.

A bus carrying Fall River residents went up in flames during Sunday’s storm in Connecticut.

According to Darien First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky, an I-95 bus fire in Darien was a mass casualty incident that occurred Sunday afternoon. 

“This was likely one of the most impactful incidents Darien has faced in several years, involving a fire and more than 50 patients who needed to be rapidly evaluated, treated, and either transported off the scene to area hospitals or safely sheltered and transferred back onto another bus to continue on to Fall River, Massachusetts.”

See more at fallriverreporter.com.

Most flights scheduled to depart today are already canceled due to the snowstorm.

Flight tracking data shows nearly 60 percent of Monday departures were called off by Sunday night, following a day when about two-thirds of flights were canceled.

T. F. Green Airport in Rhode Island and Bradley International Airport in Connecticut are also seeing widespread cancellations.

Forecasters say parts of Massachusetts picked up ten inches of snow or more, with lighter snowfall expected Monday as conditions slowly improve.

Police say they have arrested a suspect after a deadly shooting in Carver. 

On Saturday evening, 23-year-old Nicholas Meuse allegedly fatally shot two people and left two others wounded  at a child's birthday party.  Police said the two victims who died are 27-year-old Benjamin Cowart and 20-year-old Jalen Pina. 

Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz claims the shooting was not random and that the suspect and victims knew each other.  Cruz said that the suspect will be arraigned on either Monday or Tuesday, depending on the weather.

Three B.M.C. Durfee High School students were involved in a traffic accident at approximately 9:04 a.m. the morning of Friday, Jan. 23, while crossing Elsbree Street on foot. The nature of their injuries is not currently known. 

In email correspondence later shared with The Herald News, Superintendent Tracy Curley reported that of the three students who reported to the Durfee nurse’s office following the accident, two were transported to Charlton Memorial Hospital and one was dismissed to a parent or guardian.

Curley acknowledged the incident in a request for more information, and shared that the status of the two students receiving care is not known.

See more at heraldnews.com.

State Rep. Chris Markey has announced he will not seek re-election to the Ninth Bristol District representing Dartmouth and part of Ward 1 in New Bedford.

Markey, a Democrat, said he will be announcing his candidacy for Bristol County district attorney next week.

Incumbent Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced Jan. 20 that he will not be seeking re-election.

There already was a candidate in the race for Bristol County DA. Attorney Seth Aitken, the former city administrator of Fall River, announced July 2025 that he would be running for District Attorney in 2026 as a Republican.

See more at heraldnews.com.

New England is bracing itself for what could be its first major snowstorm of the year.

A winter storm watch is in effect for the SouthCoast from 7 a.m. Sunday, Jan 25, through 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, with extreme cold — plummeting to below zero on Saturday night — and 6 to 12 inches of snow expected in the region this weekend.

In anticipation of the storm, cities and towns across the region have begun announcing parking bans and cancellations.

FALL RIVER: A parking ban will be in effect from 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24, until further notice.

According to the city of Fall River, parking is only allowed on the north side of city streets that run east and west and on the west side of streets that run north and south. Parking is allowed, unless posted on both sides of any street that is divided by a traffic median. Parking against a median is prohibited. Parking is not allowed within 20 feet of a corner to allow access for emergency vehicles and snow removal operations. Violators will be tagged and towed.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Two Rhode Island men face charges in New Bedford for an alleged armed incident on Tuesday. 

A victim reported being assaulted at a gas station in the city's North End. 

Police said 18-year-old Yomar Colon and 20-year-old Jose Velez, both from Providence, were located at an apartment complex and arrested when they were found in possession of a loaded handgun.  

Five New England Patriots have been named finalists for awards at this year's NFL Honors ceremony during Super Bowl week.

Quarterback Drake Maye is a finalist for MVP and Offensive Player of the Year, while Mike Vrabel is among the candidates for Coach of the Year. TreVeyon Henderson is a finalist for Offensive Rookie of the Year, Stefon Diggs is up for Comeback Player of the Year, and Josh McDaniels is a finalist for Assistant Coach of the Year.

Award winners will be announced February 5th.

In anticipation of this weekend’s snowstorm and dangerous temperatures expected to plummet below zero, the city of Fall River has announced it will be opening its extreme cold weather temporary shelter starting Friday, Jan. 23.

Those seeking refuge can head to First Step Inn at 134 Durfee St., (in their first-floor conference room) beginning on Friday,  Jan. 23, at 4 p.m.

Learn more at heraldnews.com.

Get your shovels and snowblowers ready. A "high-impact" storm is expected sweep through dozens of states, from Texas up through New England, bringing several inches of snow and ice to the SouthCoast starting Sunday, Jan. 25, into Monday, Jan. 26.

According to the National Weather Service, the area will be on a winter storm watch from Sunday morning to Monday evening, with the potential for 6 to 12 inches of snowfall, "with localized accumulations over 12 inches possible."

That means residents have to start thinking about where they can — and can't — park when the city issues a parking ban.

Fall River is expected to announce the date and time its parking ban will go into effect on Friday, Jan. 23, at 2 p.m. ahead of this weekend’s storm.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey outlined her priorities for the coming months in her third State of the Commonwealth address Thursday night.

Healey, who’s gearing up to run for reelection, focused on how she plans to lower costs for residents and businesses.

“In this moment, my job as governor is to provide what this federal government hasn’t: stability, security – and how about a little common sense?” she said. “My focus is you and what matters in your life.”

Healey announced several new initiatives, which include lowering electricity bills by 25% and gas bills by 10% in February and March. She said $180 million of those costs will be covered by “existing funding sources.”

See more at wpri.com.

The Denver Broncos are blocking New England Patriots fans from tickets via Ticketmaster for the AFC Championship game. 

The Ticketmaster website said due to limited availability, tickets would only be sold to people with a billing address in the Rocky Mountain region.  Anyone outside that area will have to try ticket resellers like StubHub, SeatGeek and Vivid Seats. 

The winner of Sunday's game goes to the Super Bowl. 

The Special Town Meeting held Saturday, Jan. 17, heard 11 articles mainly concerning updates to public safety and Somerset's schools. Though some with greater impact to zoning by-laws and the town’s waterfront overlay district, or another that sought to establish a funding mechanism to support business development in town, were put off till a later date. 

The weekend morning meeting, which stretched to three hours and drew close to 150 residents who actively voted, heard typical meeting agenda items, like paying town bills, and also asked residents to consider larger appropriations for public safety vehicle maintenance and the payment of vendors. 

See more at wpri.com.

Attorneys for the owner of Gabriel House assisted living facility and a real estate trust that controls the burned-out Oliver Street building say they’re being unfairly prevented from accessing millions in insurance money, and want a state Appeals Court judge to step in.

Without their insurance money, attorneys say, the Oliver Street property “will go to waste,” leaving the company without any value — and potentially no money for plaintiffs if they win their lawsuits.

The assisted living company and its owner are facing 11 negligence and wrongful death lawsuits in Bristol County Superior Court after a deadly July 13 fire. The blaze, one of the worst in state history, left 10 residents dead and dozens of elderly and disabled residents homeless.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Two men were taken into custody following a reported assault in New Bedford on Tuesday.

The victim told police they went to an apartment to retrieve personal belongings when they were confronted by two men. The victim reported being struck in the face and said the men brandished guns.

Officers later located the suspects, identified as 18-year-old Yomar Colon and 20-year-old Jose Velez, at an apartment on Lafrance Court.

See more at wpri.com.

The Freetown Police Department is mourning the sudden loss of retired Chief Carlton E. Abbott Jr.

Abbott passed away unexpectedly on Monday after a brief illness, according to his obituary. He was 66 years old.

Abbott graduated from the police academy in 1983 and “at the top” of his class. He also earned several degrees, including a master’s at Anna Maria College and a juris doctorate from Southern New England School of Law.

He first started working for the department as an auxiliary officer in 1979 and steadily rose through the ranks, eventually earning his appointment to police chief in 1998.

See more at wpri.com.

Massachusetts could receive nearly $93 million in federal funding — and some of it could be headed to the Fall River area.

On Jan. 15, the U.S. Senate passed a trio of bills to provide funding for an array of projects across the government. The bills include $92.78 million in federal funding for Massachusetts, split across 93 projects in areas like infrastructure, energy and science.

It includes $1.5 million for Worcester Polytechnic Institute to build a device to destroy PFAS, $1 million for the Hyannis Public Library Association and $1,031,000 to reduce flooding and prevent pollution at affordable housing developments in Boston.

The entire Massachusetts federal delegation applauded the funds in a press release.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Landon Silva's favorite subject at Joseph Case High School is history.

Little did the 14-year old freshman honor student realize he would create a historic moment for himself that was captured on national television.

With 11:46 remaining in Sunday's AFC Divisional game between the New England Patriots and Houston Texans, Silva appeared on the TV screen shirtless cheering on the home team in snowy conditions that got the attention of NFL on ESPN announcers Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.

The moment quickly hit Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy and erupted into a viral frenzy on social media that is still raging on days after a Patriots victory.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Police have arrested a Massachusetts man accused of driving drunk and causing a head-on crash in Rehoboth Tuesday evening.

Jacob Larsen, 22, of Avon, has been charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

Larsen was also cited for speeding and not wearing a seat belt.

Police said an officer on patrol spotted Larsen driving at a high rate of speed down Winthrop Street. She then saw Larsen’s vehicle cross the center line and crash into an oncoming car.

See more at wpri.com.

Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection after serving almost 12 years in the role.

“I have decided not seek re-election for a fourth term,” Quinn said. “It has been a great honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Bristol County.”

Quinn was born and raised in Bristol County and first became a prosecutor nearly 40 years ago.

Located at 16 Anawan St. in Fall River, the Narrows Center for the Arts is hosting performances from nationally acclaimed acts and local favorites throughout February, according to a community announcement.

Concerts at The Narrows

• Feb. 6 – Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish: Formed in 1991, the band has evolved through many incarnations and has played music worldwide, including Martha's Vineyard, where most members live.
• Feb. 7 – Colby James & The Ramblers: Colby James is a singer/songwriter and multi-talented vocalist/guitarist who has been performing for 17 years.
• Feb. 13 – Peter Wolf and The Midnight Travelers (Sold Out): Peter Wolf, known as the lead singer and songwriter of the J. Geils Band, brings his band for an evening of rock and roll.
• Feb. 15 – Sam Grisman Project: Sam Grisman, a bass player and bandleader, grew up surrounded by some of the great acoustic music of our time. His father, David Grisman, is a legendary mandolinist.
• Feb. 19 – The Fabulous Thunderbirds: Kim Wilson, the frontman of The Fabulous Thunderbirds, is preparing for a tour that pays tribute to Chicago Blues.
• Feb. 21 – Ally the Piper: Ally is an internet sensation with nearly 5 million followers, known for bringing the Great Highland bagpipe into the modern era.
• Feb. 26 – Skeleton Crewe: The band features Rob Barraco, Barry Sless, Stephen Inglis, Pete Sears, and Jay Lane, all virtuosos of the jam band scene.
• Feb. 27 – Duke Robillard: Duke Robillard has been at the forefront of Blues, Swing, and classic R&B/Jump blues for over 45 years and is releasing a new record.
• Feb. 28 – Tom Rush: Tom Rush is a musician and performer known for his distinctive guitar style, humor, and expressive voice.

See more at heraldnews.com.

After nearly a decade, K-9 Mattis with the Seekonk Police Department has officially retired.

The German Shepherd recieved his final call over the weekend after serving alongside Sgt. Adam Laprade for the last nine years.

The pair also competed on the A&E competition “America’s Top Dog” in 2021.

On his last day of duty, Mattis even helped make a drug stop.

See more at wpri.com.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll launched their reelection campaign Tuesday morning.

The two were first elected in 2022, and this time around, they said they are looking to lower costs, make life better for residents and “stand up to the Trump Administration’s harms.”

The reelection was kicked off with a video, just days before Healey delivers her third State of the Commonwealth address.

“I ran for governor to show up for people who need someone in their corner, to lower costs and increase opportunities, and we’re getting things done,” Healey said in her launch video. “But there’s more for us to do, a lot more, and that’s why I’m running for reelection: to lower costs, make life better, and stand up to Donald Trump.”

See more at wpri.com.

A legendary Fall River coach and athletic director has passed away.

According to Fall River Public Schools, Thomas “Skip” Karam has died.

Karam had a 36-year career that left a lasting mark on the Durfee basketball program, a school he graduated from in 1953. He amassed 659 wins, achieving an impressive 85% winning percentage, and led the Hilltoppers to five state championships, reaching seven state title games and making 32 postseason tournament appearances.

See more at fallriverreporter.com.

One phrase had special meaning as it echoed throughout the Zeiterion’s glittering-like-new theater during a celebration of its $37 million, 19-month rebirth:

“We did it.”

Rep. Tony Cabral, D-New Bedford, prefaced his remarks with the phrase, and then led the hundreds gathered in the audience in enthusiastically repeating it.

During his remarks, Frank Almeida, chairman of the Zeiterion Board of Directors, turned to Cabral with a wide smile, “Tony, we did it.”

See more at heraldnews.com.

Central Fire Station at the corner of Bedford and Troy Streets is a relic of the past that still serves the same function today, sheltering the Fall River Fire Department, and until recently, the city’s Emergency Medical Services. 

The station that was built in 1920s has remained operable for some hundred years, and for the last 25 of them, Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon said at a Jan. 13 City Council Committee on Finance meeting, the city has promised updates that now seem more “myth” than reality. Firefighters’ Local 1314 Union President Michael O’Reagan informed councilors that the building’s basement is “loaded with asbestos.” 

The historic building is considered “the worst in the state,” Bacon added. 

In July, the council heard plans to repoint the brick and replace windows and medallions on the side of the station facing Troy Street.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Joseph Case High School has earned Silver status on the College Board’s 2024-25 AP School Honor Roll.

The recognition highlights schools whose Advanced Placement programs have motivated and prepared students for college success, according to a community announcement.

The College Board’s AP program offers students the chance to take college-level courses and exams in high school, potentially earning college credit or advanced placement. The program includes 38 subjects, each ending with a challenging exam that encourages critical thinking and argument construction.

There are four levels of distinction on the AP School Honor Roll: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Firefighters in Fall River knocked down a house fire that broke out Saturday morning.

Fire Chief Jeffrey Bacon said crews responding to Warren Street just after 10 a.m. were met with smoke coming from the third floor.

All the people inside the home were out before firefighters got there, according to Bacon, and none suffered any injuries.

The fire’s cause is under investigation.

See more at wpri.com.

A Middletown woman is accused of driving under the influence after a crash involving a Newport police cruiser early Sunday morning.

According to police, an officer was monitoring traffic in the area of Eustis Avenue and Bliss Road just after midnight when the driver hit his vehicle from behind before driving off.

The driver, later identified as 38-year-old Erin Moitoza, was stopped by the officer around the corner on Bliss Road, police said.

Moitoza and the officer both suffered minor injuries.

See more at wpri.com.

Kevin Aguiar, a veteran of the Fall River School Committee, was named vice chairman with a majority vote from the board at its Jan. 12 meeting.

Mayor Paul Coogan, who serves as the chairman of the School Committee, abstained from voting.

Aguiar recently resigned as principal of Westport Elementary School after facing allegations of covering up evidence in which a staff member mishandled a disabled Westport student late last year. Of all School Committee candidates, he was the top vote-getter in the Nov. 4, 2025, municipal election. 

“I’ve served for many years on this board and I look forward to the opportunity to serve as vice chair of this board over the next two years,” Aguiar said, “but we need to take this committee … in a new direction.”

Aguiar listed "appropriate systems," "accountability," "decorum" and "oversight" as priority benchmarks for the committee to strive toward.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Crews responded to a house fire in Westport Thursday morning.

Firefighters arrived at the Charlotte White Road home to find heavy smoke pouring out of open windows and doors. Officials said it appeared the fire started in an oven that was locked during a self-cleaning cycle.

Once gas and power were disconnected, firefighters removed the appliance from the home and extinguished the flames.

Officials noted that the home remains habitable, since the damage was contained to the oven.

See more at wpri.com.

The credits have rolled on the Showcase Cinemas in Seekonk.

The property where the movie theater once stood now looks like an empty parking lot with some piles of dirt and rubble.

Crews began tearing down the theater off Route 6 last month. The theater’s last day open was Jan. 5, 2025.

The property was bought by Demoulas Super Market Inc. back in 2024. The company plans to build a Market Basket there, according to Seekonk’s town planner.

See more at wpri.com.

It is unclear if the driver of a car that hit a bicyclist in Fall River Monday afternoon will be cited. 

A Providence TV station reported a 17-year-old boy suffered non-life-threatening injuries when he was hit around three p.m. as he crossed President Avenue.  He has been released from a hospital. 

A mom-and-pop Polish eatery that’s garnered much fanfare over 17 years — including TV spots and celebrity visits — bid its final do widzenia to customers earlier this month with very little of it.

Once dubbed a “pierogi paradise” by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, Patti’s Pierogis served up its last batch of dumplings, golabki and kielbasa at 1019 S. Main St. during a quiet “soft closing” on Jan. 3 that proved especially emotional for owner Patti Geary.

“This restaurant was such a big part of me,” said Geary, a Fall River native who has made the unassuming diner-style spot her second home since she and her husband Ron opened it in 2009. “I enjoyed every minute of it.”

See more at heraldnews.com.

A New Bedford couple is picking up the pieces after a fire tore through their home just days after Christmas.

Daniel Mendoza Lopez told 12 News he left to visit his mother’s house that afternoon only to return a few hours later to see his Topham Street home engulfed in flames.

He was even more devastated to learn that his husband, Adel Mendoza Lopez, had been rushed to Rhode Island Hospital with third-degree burns.

“He has burns over approximately 25% of his body that will require three or four surgeries,” Daniel said.

See more at wpri.com.

Governor Maura Healey said she is taking immediate action to implement most of the recommendations of a state panel regarding assisted living facilities. 

The recommendations for increased oversight follow a fire that killed ten residence at Gabriel House in Fall River last July. 

The governor said the "heartbreaking" tragedy at Gabriel House showed there can be no delay in strengthening protections.  

Gabriel “Boomer” Amaral announced he will seek to challenge one of the state’s most powerful politicians, saying he will run against longtime state Sen. Michael Rodrigues to represent the First Bristol and Plymouth District in the November 2026 election.

Amaral, a Fall River Republican, wrote in a statement posted to his Facebook page on Tuesday, Jan. 13, that “Massachusetts is getting harder to live in, harder to raise a family in, and harder to run a business in.”

“Beacon Hill keeps telling us everything is fine. It’s not fine. I’m running to fight for the people who punch a clock, run a small shop, serve our country, and just want a fair shot,” he stated.

See more at heraldnews.com.

In a town where the water service lines are nearly a century old, a federally and state-mandated notice is making the rounds of Somerset, drawing “confusion” and “questions” from water district customers who may need their water lines evaluated and replaced. 

Affected residents received a two-page Dec. 29 notice also shared with The Herald News notifying them that the lines delivering drinking water to their homes could made of “unknown” or unclassified materials that need to be tested and inventoried to ensure the pipes do not contain lead. 

The state’s Department of Environmental Protection and the federal Environmental Protection Agency require that the town send a notice to residents stating that unknown pipes could be “presumed to contain lead.”

See more at heraldnews.com.

Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey will not be running for re-election in November, he announced in a press release Jan. 12.

Morrissey has been the district attorney for Norfolk County for 15 years. He presided over the office during the high-profile trial of Karen Read, who was found not guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Boston police Officer John O’Keefe in June 2025.

In a statement, Morrissey said that he will be starting “a new chapter.”

“I ran for this office to stand up for victims and give them a voice. I am proud to have done so for countless victims over the years and am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and in the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office,”

Morrissey said. “Being District Attorney is about pursuing justice with integrity and fairness. I am incredibly proud of the meaningful work our office has accomplished, both in the courtroom and throughout the community.”

See more at heraldnews.com.

Six months after the deadly fire at Gabriel House assisted living facility exposed how short-staffing in the Fall River Fire Department cost lives, firefighters have received their share of congratulations for their heroism, seen proposals for change, heard promises that everyone in power would take steps to improve working conditions.

Firefighter Michael O’Reagan said for boots-on-the-ground firefighters, actual progress on improving their conditions has been minimal.

“Government moves at the speed of slow,” said O’Reagan.

Every day, the department is called upon to answer calls for accidents, medical emergencies and structure fires, while enduring what O’Reagan called low pay, overwork, staffing that falls below national standards, aging equipment, and facilities that are a health hazard.

See more at heraldnews.com.

The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center is holding its grand reopening Saturday after undergoing extensive renovations.

The project got underway back in June 2024. The more than 100-year-old theater, known locally as “the Z,” hasn’t been renovated since 1983.

The theater has been “transformed” with the creation of gathering spaces, the return of a marquee, and the addition of new bathrooms and a speakeasy, according to its website. The Zeiterion noted that it also addressed previous accessibility issues.

The grand reopening will feature two shows with Emmy award-winning comedian Dulcé Sloan, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra and the New Bedford Festival Theatre.

See more at wpri.com.

Several survivors recently reunited with Fall River first responders who saved their lives on the night of the deadly fire at Gabriel House assisted living facility.

At an event held at Primo on Water Street, USA TODAY Co. news partner WCVB was on hand to see survivors of the tragedy thank the firefighters, police and paramedics who pulled them from the smoke and flames.

"I want to thank the firefighters, thank them a lot. They saved my life and saved all our lives," said Gabriel House resident Neil Beck to WCVB.

The event was held nearly six months after the catastrophic July 13 fire, in which 10 residents were killed and about 30 people injured. The incident at the 261 Oliver St. facility tested the limits of the Fall River Fire Department, which struggled to save dozens of residents trapped inside, most of whom were elderly or physically infirm.

See more at heraldnews.com.

A Massachusetts lawmaker has introduced legislation in response to the brutal October stabbing of former Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan.

A press release by Flanagan said the bill, called “Flanagan’s Law,” intends to stop violent acts by those who suffer from mental illness and have a criminal history. The legislation was introduced by state Rep. Alan Silvia, a Fall River Democrat.

Surveillance video released by police showed a person approaching Flanagan from behind and stabbing him multiple times. The incident happened near Flanagan’s cannabis dispensary on Hartwell Street.

See more at wpri.com.

A person was seriously injured after being hit by a vehicle in Fairhaven Saturday evening.

Police said the incident happened just after 6 p.m. in the area of Howland Road and Garrison Street.

The drive stayed at the scene to cooperate with authorities.

Police are investigating the incident.

See more at wpri.com.

Two people were rushed to the hospital after a house fire broke out in Newport early Sunday morning.

Fire Chief Harp Donnelly IV said crews responding to Elm Street just before 3 a.m. were met with flames in the first floor window.

Three people were evacuated from the home, Donnelly said. The condition of the two people taken to the hospital is unknown at this time.

The Newport and State Fire Marshal’s Offices are investigating what caused the fire.

See more at heraldnews.com.

A 24-year-old New Bedford man is sentenced to ten years in prison followed by probation after pleading guilty to shooting two people. 

Police said Joshua Deleon shot a man in New Bedford on December 22, 2023. 

The same night, prosecutors said he shot a man in Taunton.

Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn said Deleon is a "menace to society who clearly needs to be kept off the streets to protect the public."   

Fall River schools are among 58 districts sharing $3.2 million in state grants to boost mental and behavioral health services for students, according to a community announcement.

The grants, awarded by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, aim to help districts create or expand comprehensive mental health support systems. The funding is expected to strengthen partnerships between schools and community-based mental health providers, improve staff training and pilot universal mental health screening programs.

Fall River Public Schools are slated to receive $69,910, according to the announcement.

See more at heraldnews.com.

A Florida man was sentenced this week for an armed robbery and bomb threat that occurred in August at a Fall River bank.

Domingo Agostini, 41, of Port Lucie, Florida, pleaded guilty and on Thursday, Jan. 8, at Bristol County Superior Court in Fall River was ordered to serve two to four years in state prison.

According to a release from the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, Agostini’s charges stem from an Aug. 18, 2025, incident at Rockland Trust Bank at 855 Brayton Ave.

Fall River police responded to the bank at approximately 10:30 a.m., where a teller told them that a man approached her with a note written on a paper bag that stated, "I have a bomb" and then demanded $20,000 from the teller. 

See more at heraldnews.com.

The Demoulas family power struggle did not seem to impact Market Basket’s popularity among shoppers last year.

The Tewksbury-based grocer has been named the second-best supermarket chain in the country for the second time by retail analysis firm Dunnhumby.

Texas-based grocer H-E-B took the top spot for the fifth time, while Woodman’s replaced Costco as the country’s third top supermarket chain.

See more at wpri.com.

Iced Out Pub, the location of an early-morning shooting in December, has lost its license “indefinitely,” as of the Dec. 23 Fall River Licensing Board meeting.

“This goes back to 2024,” said Fall River Police Department Detective Heather Moniz, who presented body camera footage from city officers at the show cause hearing. “I do think there is a little bit of a negligence,” said Moniz, citing chronic concerns that have demanded police presence at the establishment, whose capacity is close to 55 people. 

Destiny Weeks, a New Bedford resident and law student, assisted Crystal DaRosa, owner of the pub at 16 East Main St., in going before the board to demonstrate improvements made to safety and security training in the days that followed the Dec. 18 shooting.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Police made an arrest in a shooting at Iced Out Pub in Fall River last month that left multiple people injured.

Juan Ortiz, 33, faces several charges in connection to the Dec. 18 shooting that occurred around 2 a.m. at the 16 East Main St. establishment.

According to a post Thursday, Jan. 8, from Fall River Police, detectives with the Major Crimes Division who were investigating the shooting tracked down Ortiz at a residence in Rockland.

Early morning on Wednesday, Jan. 7, with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police, the United States Marshals Service, and the Rockland Police Department, Fall River police conducted a search of the residence, where they found Ortiz hiding inside a closet.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

A New Bedford man accused of shooting two men in two different cities on the same night more than two years ago has learned his fate.

Joshua Deleon, 24, pleaded guilty Wednesday to a slew of charges connected to both shootings and was sentenced to serve between seven and 10 years in state prison, followed by two years of supervised release.

The shootings happened on Dec. 22, 2023, in New Bedford and Taunton, according to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn III.

See more at wpri.com.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said two earthquakes were recorded in Southern New England on Wednesday.

A 1.9 magnitude earthquake was recorded near Moodus, Connecticut, around 5:30 p.m., and then a 1.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, around 9:11 p.m.

The USGS said that while earthquakes on the East Coast are less common than out West, they can be felt more widely.

Normally, Southern New England only feels earthquakes of 1.0 to 2.5 magnitudes.

Video game retailer GameStop is closing at least nine stores in Massachusetts. 

The Boston Globe the stock of the Grapevine, Texas-based company has reportedly dropped significantly since its peak in 2021.

GameStop locations either already closed or closing in the next few days include Brookline, Chestnut Hill, Dartmouth, East Longmeadow, Hadley, Holyoke, Malden, Stoughton and Westfield.     

There is an arrest in connection with a triple stabbing late Sunday night in Fairhaven. 

Three people were wounded, one critically, during a fight outside a house on Cherry Street.  Police said 21-year-old Gavin Massas of New Bedford faces multiple charges. 

According to investigators Massas and the victims know each other so it was not a random act of violence.  

A second city pier on the Taunton River waterfront is getting a big boost from the state, with a nearly $1 million grant.

The Fall River Redevelopment Authority received a state grant worth $964,925 to finish work at Northfield Point, a 1.6-acre of city land lying between the Point Gloria high-rise and the Norton City Pier. The area is set to become a new public space.

“What this will do is allow us to complete the project,” said Sarah Page, director of the Redevelopment Authority.

The spot will be fixed up for walking, picnicking and waterfront recreation, with mooring for boats — though plans voiced early on in Northfield Point’s development to turn it into a fishing pier are unlikely.

See more at heraldnews.com.

A Fall River man accused of illegally dumping approximately 50 mattresses has been criminally charged, according to police.

Police said the mattresses were dumped off Innovation Way near the Fall River Industrial Park just days before Christmas.

Detectives were able to identify the vehicle involved thanks nearby surveillance footage and distinguishing features on the mattresses.

Police said the vehicle involved was a U-Haul rented by Hemson Etienne.

See more at wpri.com.

In 2026, Massachusetts residents will be able to smoke marijuana at ‘cannabis cafes,’ transportation workers will be protected from spit and boaters will need safety certificates.

State lawmakers and agency officials have passed several new laws and regulations that go into effect this year. Some are responses to the Trump administration, while others address safety concerns.

See the six new laws that are going into effect in 2026 by clicking here.

Mayor Paul Coogan was inaugurated as the city’s top executive for his fourth consecutive term on Monday, Jan. 5, giving supporters a peek into what his vision for Fall River holds: a resilient city that remembers its roots as it looks forward to a future of progress. 

Goals of bolstering public safety, a booming housing market that continues to represent a thriving private-public sector, and improvements to education, neighborhood communities, and strategies to stabilize the cost of living will follow Coogan’s aims into 2028, where a “balanced approach” will “continue building a Fall River that is strong, vibrant, safe, inclusive, and full of opportunity.”

Friends, families, and political supporters, along with state delegates, gathered at B.M.C. Durfee High School’s Nagle Auditorium to install the city's new elected municipal officials.

See more at heraldnews.com.

An investigation is underway after detectives found suspected cocaine hidden inside a Fall River car detaling business.

Detectives searched the Stafford Road business last month after learning that the owner may be a “large-scale cocaine supplier,” according to the Fall River Police Department.

Police said the detectives uncovered 10 kilograms of suspected cocaine concealed inside a safe, as well as five large-capacity firearms, various calibers of ammunition and several magazines.

Criminal charges against the owner are pending laboratory testing, police added.

See more at wpri.com.

The Bristol County Sheriff’s Office has gone three consecutive years without an inmate suicide, though prior to 2023 there were one to four suicides most years since 1998, according to Sheriff Paul Heroux.

Heroux stated in a press release, “This is a milestone in the humane treatment and improved care that inmates receive while at the BCSO.”

Prior to Heroux's taking office in 2023, the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office had the highest rate of suicide in the state, and was three times the national average, Heroux added. 

“When campaigning for sheriff in 2022, I pledged to address this issue,” he stated.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Police have arrested a Dartmouth man accused of robbing a New Bedford pharmacy and then stealing from another Monday morning.

Nicholas Ouimet, 33, was taken into custody after officers found him slumped over in the driver’s seat of a vehicle at the intersection of Nemasket and Alva streets.

Police said the car Ouimet was in had been reported stolen nearly two hours ago from the CVS on Kempton Street. Surveillance footage from inside the pharmacy showed Ouimet going behind the counter and stealing a set of car keys, along with several other items.

Ouimet had a crack pipe and a small bag of cocaine on him at the time of his arrest, according to police.

See more at wpri.com.

The suspect in a triple stabbing Sunday night in Fairhaven is being sought. 

Three people were injured, one critically, during an altercation outside a house on Cherry Street around 10:15 p.m.   

A preliminary investigation indicates it was not a random act.  Police believe there is no danger to the public. 

Patients, visitors, and staff at several Rhode Island and Massachusetts medical facilities are now required to wear masks at all times due to an uptick in respiratory virus cases in the area.

Brown University Health announced that the healthcare system would move to "respiratory virus status red" starting Jan. 6, warning patients to take proper precautions against the flu and other illnesses at its hospitals and offices.

Brown University Health's facilities include Rhode Island Hospital, Hasbro Children's, The Miriam Hospital, and Newport Hospital in Rhode Island, as well as Saint Anne's Hospital and Morton Hospital in Massachusetts.

The healthcare system had previously moved to "respiratory virus status yellow" on Dec. 18, 2025, which required masks only during direct interactions between patients, staff, and visitors. Under the new guidance, masks are required regardless of interactions.

See more at heraldnews.com.

At the Dec. 8 School Committee meeting, school administrators responded to a 74-page organizational review of the Fall River Public School district that claims the school system’s stumbles have resulted in clumsy departmental coordination, but say that many of the report’s recommendations have already been implemented. 

Superintendent Tracy Curley said, “The purpose of the review was really to modernize foundational systems to support every school, every department in the district.”

She added that specific goals of the study sought to “modernize” operational functions while reducing delay or a duplication of resources and efforts. 

“We know that the district has grown in size and complexity over time,” Curley said, “and there are certainly more compliance expectations than ever before, but our systems generally haven’t kept pace. … If we experience inconsistencies across departments, it really puts us at risk.”

See more at heraldnews.com.

Nick Freitas' love for the game of football goes above and beyond the call of duty.

His fiery demeanor on the sidelines throughout the years helped lead the Somerset Berkley football team to numerous conference championships and a Super Bowl appearance in 2010.

Now it's the end of era for the longtime Raider mentor.

Freitas announced that he is stepping down after 22 years of coaching, including 16 years as head coach for SBR. This comes days after the Raiders and Joseph Case football agreed to renew their 90-year Thanksgiving Day rivalry.

See more at heraldnews.com.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is warning of “very high and rising levels of influenza activity” across the state.

Three pediatric deaths in recent weeks have been linked to the flu, and there have been 29 adult deaths reported so far this season, according to the department.

“This is a moment for clarity, urgency, and action,” Massachusetts Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein explained. “These viruses are serious, dangerous, and life-threatening. We are seeing children who are seriously ill, families grieving devastating losses, and hospitals under capacity strain.”

See more at wpri.com.

Portraits of the 2025 Southcoast Health President’s Award for Excellence honorees were unveiled Jan. 2 at Charlton Memorial, St. Luke’s and Tobey hospitals, as well as the health system’s Fairhaven Business Center, according to a community announcement.

The President’s Award for Excellence is the highest honor for staff, nurses, providers and physicians nominated by their coworkers for outstanding performance, integrity and overall quality of service.

This year, 12 individuals and one five-member team were celebrated for their extraordinary work supporting Southcoast Health’s patients, visitors and staff.

2025 President’s Award for Excellence Honorees:Christian Pope, DO, FACOG, Chief of Obstetrics & GynecologyBeth Welborn, Employee Experience & Wellbeing ManagerDenise Dupuis, Team Leader, Care NavigationDeborah Nery, Clinical Pharmacist, Charlton Memorial HospitalJose “Joe” Lima, Carpenter & Locksmith, FacilitiesJamsheed Vakharia, MD, Director of General Surgery, Charlton Memorial HospitalMaria Benoit, RN, Cardiac Testing, Nuclear MedicineKimberley Coon, MHA, Executive Director and Chief of Staff to COOCarlos Marques, RN, Nurse Educator, Professional DevelopmentMarie Couto, Director of Operations, Surgery Care Center – Women and ChildrenSuzete Pacheco, Team Lead, Environmental ServicesRebecca Martin, PA-C, Physician Assistant, Cardiology – Advanced Heart Failure.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Crews in New Bedford were called to battle a house fire Sunday morning.

Around 11 a.m., firefighters were called to a home on Arlington St. for a report of a house fire.

According to District Chief Steven Medeiros, the fire started in a second floor bedroom and extended to a mattress.

A man and woman were taken to the hospital with unknown injuries.

See more at wpri.com.

The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, along with the New Bedford Police Department, said a 16-year-old is now in custody, accused in deadly hit-and-run accident on New Year’s Eve.

Investigators say the teen, who is only being identified as being from Dartmouth, is charged with motor vehicle homicide, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, and two violations related to operating with a junior operator’s license.

Nicolasa Ventura Colaj, 33, of New Bedford, was leaving a church service on Acushnet Ave. with her family just after midnight when she was hit, according to police.

Since the accident, investigators identified, located, and seized the vehicle involved.

See more at wpri.com.

The city's elected officials will be sworn into office on Monday in an afternoon inaugural event that is free and open to the public.

At the city's official inauguration on Jan. 5, at 4:30 p.m. in the Nagle Auditorium of B.M.C. Durfee High School at 460 Elsbree St., Mayor Paul Coogan will accept a fourth consecutive term at the city's executive leader.

City Clerk Ine?s Leite, who has succeeded former City Clerk Allison Bouchard, will officiate the swearing in of all election winners in front of a live audience of candidates’ friends, family, in addition to federal, state and local delegates, and political supporters.

The swearing-in will be broadcast live by Fall River Government Television on channel 18, or HD channel 1072, in addition to live streaming the event on the FRGTV Facebook page.

See more at heraldnews.com.

It's time to dust off the annual '49 football trophy' that will once again be hoisted in the air on Thanksgiving Day.

The long-standing, 90-year high school holiday rivalry between Joseph Case and Somerset Berkley is officially back on this coming November. The last time the two schools met was in 2022 when the Raiders defeated the Cardinals, 50-14.

"We're excited," SBR athletic director Joe Francis said. "The game means so much to our players, coaches and greater community. We're happy to have Case back on the schedule and looking forward to renewing the rivalry on Thanksgiving Day."

Prior Friday morning's big announcement, SBR and Case each played different teams on Thanksgiving since the breakup in 2023 nearly three years ago. The Raiders had a 1-2 mark against Rhode Island Division 1 school Central High while the Cardinals posted a 3-0 record against Atlantis Charter/Westport co-op team.

See more at heraldnews.com.

Six months after an already extended deadline, Freetown has still not complied with a state law requiring the town to have special multi-family zoning, putting it at risk of losing state funding.

The town is listed as noncompliant with the MBTA Communities Law, which says Freetown must create an overlay zone where multi-family housing is allowed by right, with the capacity to hold at least 750 units.

Not being compliant with the law means the town could face penalties including denial of state funds, or could be sued by the state Attorney General.

It’s one of 10 communities statewide not complying with the controversial law, including nearby East Bridgewater.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

The Swansea community is mourning the loss of an elementary school student who died over the holiday break.

Superintendent of Swansea Public Schools Scott Holcomb responded Friday, Jan. 2 with a letter to families and staff about the death of second-grader Mason Stringer. 

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the unexpected death of one of our students. … We hold Mason’s family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all who loved him close in our thoughts and hearts during this time of profound loss.”

Stringer, a student in Ms. Robinson’s class, the letter read, attended Gardner Elementary School.

Read more at heraldnews.com.

Police have made a “critical breakthrough” in the search for the driver who hit and killed a New Bedford woman on New Year’s Day.

The New Bedford Police Department confirmed that the SUV involved in the deadly hit-and-run was “identified, located and seized” Thursday afternoon.

Nicolasa Ventura Colaj was leaving a church service with her family just after midnight when she was hit, according to police.

An investigation is underway after a pedestrian was hit and killed by a car in New Bedford Friday evening.

Police said a 67-year-old man was hit on Route 6 near Pleasant Street around 5 p.m. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The driver who hit the man remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. No charges have been filed at this time.

This comes after a woman was hit and killed by an SUV while leaving a church gathering just after midnight on New Year’s Day. Police are still searching for the driver who hit her, but have found the vehicle believed to be involved.

See more at wpri.com.

George R. Austin Intermediate School's fourth-grade class, led by teacher Amie Best, was among 12 winners in the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s fourth annual Name a Snowplow contest, according to a community announcement.

The statewide contest invites elementary and middle school classrooms to name MassDOT snowplows expected to hit the roads during the 2025–26 winter season.

The contest aims to celebrate the winter season and highlight the work of public works employees and contractors who keep roads clear during snow and ice storms.

“Your creativity allows us to highlight to all, the importance of the work performed by our workforce,” Interim MassDOT Secretary and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phil Eng said. “To our contest winners and participants, know that you have added some fun to the serious take of operating plows.”

Read more at heraldnews.com.

The Karen Read movie premiere is almost here.

The Read murder trial, or rather trials, that captivated the region and drew national headlines has already produced countless articles, podcasts and a three-part Netflix docuseries.

In January, it will get the full movie treatment when “Accused: The Karen Read Story” premieres on TV on Lifetime on Jan. 10 at 8 p.m.

Read was acquitted of second-degree murder in the Jan. 29, 2022, death of her former boyfriend, Boston police officer John O’Keefe, outside a Canton home. A jury found her guilty only of operating a motor vehicle under the influence.

During the trials, prosecutors argued an angry Read purposely struck O’Keefe with her SUV after a night of drinking and arguing, then left him to die outside the Canton home of Brian Albert during a winter storm.

See more at heraldnews.com.