GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan woman who went missing on Tuesday was found dead in Grand Traverse County. Tristan Dostal, 36, of Traverse City was found in the woods in the Brown Bridge Quiet Area on Thursday. It’s the same area she went missing in earlier in the week. The Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office had been looking for Dostal and had asked for the public’s help in locating her. Deputies did not release a cause of death, but there are no safety concerns for the public, deputies said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A 23-year-old man died in a crash on Old Mission Peninsula in Grand Traverse County. UpNorthLive reports the crash occurred when the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling south on Center Road near Ru Devin, lost control, left the roadway and struck an embankment. The vehicle overturned and caught fire in the woods around 2:24 a.m. on Monday, according to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office. Peninsula Township makes up Old Mission Peninsula, which juts out into Grand Traverse Bay and is home to some of the region’s top wineries. A driver, a Traverse City man, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the TV station.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan woman has been charged with several crimes after she allegedly attacked multiple people with a knife and table leg. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the alleged incident occurred at a home on Black Bark Lane in East Bay Township around noon on Jan. 8.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan man is accused of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old boy while the two were ice fishing on Spider Lake in Grand Traverse County about two weeks ago, WPBN/WGTU reports. Jacey Klumb, 19, of Suttons Bay, is charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct related to the incident, the report said. Klumb and the child were ice fishing when the alleged assault happened, the report said. The boy then fled across the ice and went to a house for help; they called 911. READ MORE:Michigan barber missing since summer found dead, family saysOfficer, civilian injured in crash during pursuit of stolen vehicleBody found on Lake Michigan beach in 1997 identified as woman who went missing in WisconsinWoman dropped off at Wisconsin hospital says she was held captive, 4 suspects arrested

A group of 78 nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers in Michigan won a $1 million Powerball prize, meaning they will each receive about $12,800.

ACME TOWNSHIP, MI – A new snowmobile race is coming to Grand Traverse County in January, organizers announced. The race is hosted by the Midwest International Racing Association and sponsored by Grand Traverse Resort & Casinos. On Sunday, Jan. 29, there will be a NASCAR-style endurance race with pit stops, crews, electronic scoring and a pace sled. Grand Traverse Resort & Casinos will offer a discount to racers and spectators at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa during the race weekend. snowmobile trailOutdoor Channel’s ‘Wardens’ to focus on Michigan in new seasonNorthern Michigan town to be featured on Hallmark Channel’s Christmas Cam

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police have arrested the driver of an SUV involved in a fatal hit-and-run in Northern Michigan. The Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office says a 32-year-old Buckley man was arrested and lodged at the Grand Traverse County Jail. An investigation indicates that a green Jeep Wrangler was traveling east on U.S. 31 south when it was struck by the SUV traveling south on South Long Lake Road. The driver of the Jeep, identified as a 31-year-old Traverse City man, died at the scene. The SUV left the scene after the crash and deputies had asked for the public’s help in locating the driver

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police are looking for a driver who fled the scene of a fatal crash in Grand Traverse County. According to the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office, the deadly rollover crash occurred at Interlochen Corners in Green Lake Township at 11:08 p.m. on Thursday. An investigation indicates that a green Jeep Wrangler was traveling eastbound on U.S. 31 south when it was struck by a vehicle traveling southbound on South Long Lake Road. The southbound vehicle, which may be a white SUV made by GMC left the scene after the crash, police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau at 231-995-5012.

BLAIR TOWNSHIP, MI – An 86-year-old man from Grawn was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing a road Sunday evening in Grand Traverse County, police said. The victim was walking northbound around 8 p.m. across US-31 near State Street in Blair Township when he was struck by a westbound vehicle driven by a 37-year-old Interlochen man, WPBN/WGTU reports. The crash is under investigation. READ MORE:Police identify Michigan woman fatally hit by car while walking dog, suspect chargedSuspect arrested after fire at nonprofit thrift shop in Northern Michigan2 in custody after man’s body found in abandoned building in FlintMan crashes stolen car into Jackson home, police sayOhio boy, 12, dies trying TikTok challenge, family says

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan man is facing several charges after he allegedly fled the scene of a now-fatal hit-and-run in Northern Michigan. According to the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office, Allison Jo Baker, 23, was struck by Lyon’s 2019 Honda CRV in the 2800 Block of West Long Lake Road in Long Lake Township at 6:21 p.m. on Dec. 2. Deputies found her on the side of the road. She was taken to Munson Hospital with serious injuries, where she died on Monday, police said. Lyon has a previous drunk driving charge, and more charges could be added as the investigation continues, Lieutenant Brian Giddis told UpNorthLive.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A 47-year-old man has been arrested after he allegedly fled the scene of a hit-and-run in Northern Michigan. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the 23-year-old female was struck by a 2019 Honda CRV in the 2800 Block of West Long Lake Road in Long Lake Township at 6:21 p.m. on Dec. 2. The 47-year-old driver of the CRV was arrested on Dec. 3 for leaving the scene of a personal injury crash. He is lodged at the Grand Traverse County Jail while the prosecutor’s office reviews the incident for potential charges. “Thank you to everyone who was on the lookout for the suspect vehicle,” a police statement reads.

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – A Michigan man is facing multiple felony counts for allegedly sexually abusing children under 13 years old, police said. The investigation that led to these charges began in October when Michigan Children’s Protective Services contacted the MSP Cadillac Post to investigate an alleged sexual assault against a child, the release said. A report was turned over to the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office. An arrest warrant was authorized on Nov. 30 and carried out that day, police said. Pettinato is lodged in the Grand Traverse County Jail.

More ballots were cast for Democrats than Republicans in Benzie and Grand Traverse counties in both the Michigan governor and secretary of state races. Incumbent Democrat Attorney General Dana Nessel beat GOP challenger Matt DePerno in Grand Traverse County, and they tied at 5,162 votes each in Benzie County. In 2020, former President Donald Trump beat Joe Biden in Grand Traverse County by 1,819 votes with 60,668 ballots cast. Coffia beat O’Malley in Grand Traverse County 19,208 to 18,126, and by a slimmer, 38-vote margin in Leelanau County (7,565-7,527). Voters solidly approved the measure in both Benzie and Grand Traverse counties, too.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A woman died after she was hit by a vehicle while riding a bicycle in Grand Traverse County. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred on Center Road near East Shore Road in Peninsula Township (Old Mission Peninsula) at 7:10 a.m. on Monday. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Toyota Highlander driven by a 43-year-old Traverse City woman collided with the bicycle ridden by another 63-year-old Traverse City woman. The cyclist, identified as Katherine Hardy, died at the scene, according to police. The Michigan State Police are assisting deputies in the investigation.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- Troopers with the Michigan State Police discovered a homemade bomb while conducting a traffic stop last month in Blair Township. According to police, troopers with MSP observed two vehicles in a parking lot of a business in Blair Township around 6:53 p.m. on Sept. 28. Police then pulled over the truck and arrested 33-year-old Vincent Kelly of Buckley for the outstanding warrant. Police interviewed the driver of the truck and two other passengers, but they were eventually released, however the truck was taken to the Grand Traverse County evidence garage. The case remains under investigation and further charges are expected to be authorized by the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office, according to police.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A quick response by a pair of law enforcement officers turned a tense situation into a joyous occasion. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy and a sergeant responded to the intersection of U.S. 37 and Center Road in Mayfield Township at 6:55 a.m. on Tuesday after receiving a report of a woman in labor in a vehicle on the side of the road. Realizing the urgency of the situation, a dispatcher provided labor instructions over the phone to the deputy and sergeant, as well as the woman in labor. Thanks to their efforts, a healthy baby girl was delivered in the vehicle on the side of the road at approximately 7:05 a.m.“A huge thanks to the dispatcher who walked everyone on the scene through the delivery,” a police statement reads.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – One person is dead after a three-car crash in Northern Michigan. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office the crash occurred on M-72 at Cook Road in Williamsburg around 10 a.m. on Wednesday. 9&10 News reported there was one fatality, but no other details were immediately available. The westbound lanes on M-72 were shut down for more than four hours while crews worked to clear the scene, according to deputies.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- A 67-year-old man is recovering after he was punched in the head multiple times Saturday morning by a 25-year-old Benzie County man following a road rage incident. According to 9&10 News, the victim was assaulted in the Grand Traverse Crossing parking lot after the two men pulled into the lot. One of the men was allegedly upset with the other for not properly using a turn signal. Police say the 25-year-old man began punching the victim once they pulled into the parking lot. The victim sustained some swelling and bruising along with a cut to his ear in the incident.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police have identified a man who died in a Northern Michigan crash. UpNorthLive reports that Timothy Strobl, 57, of Interlochen was killed after crashing his UPS truck on Beitner Road near River Road in Grand Traverse County’s Blair Township around 7:10 p.m. on Sept. 16. The road was closed to through traffic for several hours will deputies investigated the scene. No one else was injured in the crash, deputies said. The crash remains under an investigation and an autopsy is pending, according to the TV station.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A man has died after a crash in Grand Traverse County. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred on Beitner Road near River Road at 7:10 p.m. on Sept. 16. The road was closed to through traffic for several hours will deputies investigated the scene. The man has not been identified by name, but UpNorthLive reports he is a 57-year-old Interlochen man. The crash remains under investigation.

Didymo, a nuisance alga known as “rock snot” has been identified in a stretch of the Boardman River in Blair Township in Grand Traverse County.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- A former Houghton County undersheriff was sentenced to 18 months probation this week in connection to a drunk driving accident at a Traverse City hotel earlier this year according to 9&10 News. Kevin Coppo was originally charged operating while intoxicated in the case, but eventually pleaded guilty to a charge of operating under the influence and failure to report an accident. In April, Coppo pleaded not guilty to the OWI charge. The charges stem from a March 3 incident where Coppo was accused of driving drunk and hitting a parked car at the Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City. A week after the accident, the Houghton County Sheriff’s Office said Coppo was taking a leave of absence and have since replaced him at the department.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Northern Michigan woman is in jail after police say she coughed in a deputy’s face to deliberately spread COVID-19. Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested the woman on a bond violation Thursday, July 14, according to Lt. Brian Giddis. During the arrest, the woman told a deputy she planned to infect him with COVID-19 and then coughed in his face. The woman tested positive for COVID-19 after being lodged at the jail, police say. More on MLive:Omicron subvariant BA.5 is spreading fast: What to know about the new COVID strainResidents should mask in 4 Michigan counties, CDC says, as cases uptickMichigan reports increase in COVID cases, deaths following July 4 weekend

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI - An Indiana man’s Northern Michigan vacation took a wrong turn after his handgun accidentally went off in a restaurant’s bathroom. According to police, the manager of the Flap Jack Shack reported an accidental discharge of a handgun by a patron. Troopers responded to the restaurant and spoke with a 35-year-old Indiana man who was visiting Northern Michigan on vacation. According to police, the man told the troopers he was using the restroom at the restaurant and had hung his handgun on the coat hook inside the stall door. The accidental discharge resulted in a bullet going through the stall door.

And maybe no new piece of the TART system has been so anticipated as the last stretch of the Boardman Lake Loop Trail, which opens today. “Thirty years ago a group of local visionaries set forth on what we now know as the Boardman Lake Loop Trail,” said TART Trails Chief Executive Officer, Julie Clark. This includes TART, Traverse City, Grand Traverse County and Garfield Township. “Grand Traverse County is committed to healthy initiatives such as the Boardman Lake Loop and our new Fitness Court which sits adjacent to a segment of the Boardman Lake Loop. Recently recognized as the healthiest county in the State of Michigan, Grand Traverse County strives to make wellness a priority.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A hungry hotel guest was arrested after he allegedly threatened an employee with a knife in Northern Michigan. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred at a hotel in East Bay Township at about 6 a.m. on Monday. An argument began and he allegedly threatened the hotel employee with a knife, at one point asking him for money. The man eventually left the front desk area of the hotel and returned to his room, police said. The hotel employee was not injured, deputies said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- Two 17-year-old’s have been arrested and charged in connection to a rash of home invasions reported over the last three months. The crimes, allegedly committed in the Interlochen area of Grand Traverse County between March 21 and May 1, resulted in several stolen items. One of the suspects was caught by deputies leaving the scene of one of the home invasions. Evidence was collected linking the teenagers to the home invasions, deputies said. Both teens have been charged with home invasion, arson, unlawful driving away of a vehicle, and safe breaking.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- A 21-year-old Rochester, Michigan man was arrested earlier this month following an eight-month investigation into allegations that he accosted a child at a motel in Traverse City. Michigan State Police say Paul Pavliscak was arrested on May 5 and arraigned recently on charges of accosting a child for immoral purposes and using a computer to commit a crime. The lengthy investigation began in August 2021 when the guardian of a child contacted police about nude photos that were found on the child’s cell phone. Interviews were conducted and a search warrant was conducted on Pavliscak’s home leading to the seizure of his cell phone. Analysis of the phone was conducted and eventually a two-count warrant for Pavliscak’s arrest was issued in April.

This week, 16 Michigan counties are at what the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention consider high COVID-19 levels, meaning residents there should take precautions and wear masks while in public and indoors. Last week, only Grand Traverse County in northern Michigan was at a such a level, which considers recent COVID hospitalizations and new cases by area. RELATED: Michigan COVID-19 deaths increase this week as cases, hospitalizations continue to riseThe northeastern part of the United States remains most affected by the recent surge in cases, but the impact is spreading west. All but a handful of Michigan counties saw increases this week compared to last week. Michigan hospitals, as of Monday, were operating at about 79% capacity.

Several Metro Detroit counties have been upgraded to a “high” COVID-19 risk category and are being urged to practice mask wearing in public by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

After a period of decreased coronavirus spread, COVID cases are starting to rise in some regions across the U.S. and the world -- including in some parts of Michigan.

Grand Traverse County saw 12 new admissions of confirmed COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people in the seven days ending Tuesday, May 3. It also had more than 200 new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people, in the same period. RELATED: 7-day average of new, confirmed COVID cases up 32% this week in MichiganAdditionally, Clinton, Livingston, Wayne, Macomb and Monroe counties went this week from low level green to yellow. Southeast Michigan has been hardest hit by the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in the state, but most areas are seeing increases. They were seeing 9.6 new confirmed COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals per 100,000 people in the seven days ending Tuesday.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Quick thinking by two off-duty sheriff’s deputies likely saved an umpire having a cardiac emergency. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the umpire was working home plate during a softball game at Benzie Central High School when he collapsed and stopped breathing on Wednesday. A shock was then administered, deputies said. The umpire regained consciousness shortly after and was transported to Munson Hospital by emergency ambulance. He was stabilized and continued to receive cardiac care upon arrival, deputies said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- A man who pleaded guilty to driving under the influence causing death will spend up to 15 years in prison after he was sentenced this week for his role in the October 2021 death of 66-year-old Mike Trailer. According to UpNorthLive, Judge Kevin Elsenheimer sentenced Justin Greene to 70 months to 15 years in prison this week following Greene’s plea in February. Trailer was waiting at the intersection with another vehicle in front of him when Greene crashed into Trailer’s car. Trailer’s vehicle then crashed into the vehicle in front of him. READ MORE:See video in Grand Rapids police fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya‘Name the killer cop’: Hundreds protest in Grand Rapids in response to fatal police shooting‘She was a beautiful soul who got involved with the wrong person,’ says friend of woman killed in Buena Vista Township

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Conservation officers with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources shut down an illegal snowmobile drag race last month. According to an official report, the incident occurred when William Kinney, a CO in DNR District 4, responded to a frozen lake in Grand Traverse County. The DNR had received a complain of an illegal race being held. The race was not permitted, and multiple snowmobile and park violations were being broken, according to the report. Grand Traverse County is located in DNR District 4 which also includes Benzie, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola and Wexford counties.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Houghton County undersheriff has pleaded not guilty to operating while intoxicated, UpNorthLive reports. Kevin Coppo was charged with OWI after he was arrested for drunken driving at the Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City on March 3. Deputies in Grand Traverse County said he backed into an unoccupied car in the parking lot of the popular family tourism destination known for themed hotel rooms and elaborate indoor water parks. The Houghton County Sheriff’s Office announced Mach 10 that Coppo would be taking a leave of absence. Coppo is not allowed to drink alcohol or enter establishments that serve alcohol.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan woman who caused a head-on crash had a BAC almost five times over the legal limit. Troopers from the Michigan State Police responded to the two-vehicle crash, which occurred near the intersection of Garfield Road and Mayfield Road in Grand Traverse County’s Paradise Township at 1:37 p.m. on Thursday. An Initial investigation revealed a 39-year-old Traverse City woman was traveling northbound on Garfield Road when she crossed over the center line and into oncoming traffic. One vehicle traveling southbound on Garfield Road was able to swerve into the ditch to avoid the vehicle, but a second vehicle was struck head-on, police said. A report is being provided to the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office for review, police said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police have identified a man found dead inside a burning home in Grand Traverse County. John Michael Campeau, 59, of East Bay Township was found dead with what police said was a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the home in East Bay Township at 7:40 p.m. on Monday. Deputies from the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend’s 15-year-old daughter. At that time they noticed smoke coming out of the windows and some flames within the home, according to a news release. Deputies then made several attempts to search the house with robots and drones through windows and an open door but could not locate Campeau.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A man was found dead inside a burning Northern Michigan home with what police said is a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Deputies from the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office responded to East Bay Township to investigate a reported domestic assault at 7:40 p.m. on Monday. A 59-year-old man from East Bay Township had allegedly assaulted his girlfriend’s 15-year-old daughter. Deputies then made several attempts to search the house with robots and drones through windows and an open door but could not locate the man. Deputies eventually located a deceased male with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

Rapper Nelly will perform at the 2022 National Cherry Festival in Traverse City this summer.

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – More than 100 dogs that were seized from a large-scale breeding operation in Northern Michigan will soon be available for adoption, officials said. RELATED: Man charged in large-scale dog breeding operation at blighted Northern Michigan propertyOn Jan. 28, 164 dogs were seized from an East Bay Township property owned by 72-year-old Raymond Feagles. The remaining dogs are in the care of Cherryland Humane Society, which has dubbed them the “Disney Dogs.”“Every single one of these pooches deserves a happily ever after,” the humane society said in an update on Monday, Feb. 14. “It was much worse than any of us could have imagined,” the humane society said. “It fills our hearts to watch their confidence grow, their personalities start to develop, and to accept love without hesitation,” the humane society said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police have identified the victim of a fatal fire in Grand Traverse County. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, 71-year-old Lawrence Gerred died in the blaze which occurred on Bates Road in Acme Township at 12:14 a.m. on Jan. 30. The building, located next to the Through the Roof Fellowship Church, was fully engulfed in flames when fire crews arrived. The fire had extended to the worship building of the church, but firefighters quickly extinguished it. Firefighters from the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department as well as firefighters from Traverse City, Elk Rapids, Williamsburg and Peninsula Township responded to the scene.

EAST BAY TOWNSHIP, MI – Authorities are investigating the death of at least one dog at a blighted Northern Michigan property where 163 dogs were seized last week, officials said. Multiple agencies had coordinated to clean up blight at a property in East Bay Township on Friday morning, Jan. 28, the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. Upon arrival, they found what no one anticipated: 163 dogs in “unsafe conditions,” resulting in their mass removal from the property. The canines are now in the care of Grand Traverse County Animal Control and Cherryland Humane Society. Animal control officers from six counties were called in to help along with an additional humane society.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Officials are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Grand Traverse County. Firefighters from the Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department responded to the blaze, which occurred on Bates Road in Acme Township at 12:14 a.m. on Sunday. The building, located next to the Through the Roof Fellowship Church, was fully engulfed in flames when fire crews arrived. After the fire was under control, crews found a deceased victim in the structure. Firefighters from three Grand Traverse Metro stations, Traverse City, Elk Rapids, Williamsburg and Peninsula Township responded to the scene.

Authorities discovered more than 160 dogs at a rural property near Traverse City after arriving to enforce blight violations.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – Police are investigating after a man’s body was found in Grand Traverse County. UpNorthLive.com reports that foul play is not suspected, but the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office is having an autopsy completed in Kalamazoo. RELATED: Homeless man found dead near UAW building in MichiganThe man was found in the Hoosier Valley area and the Department of Natural Resources said the person may be the same man a DNR officer encountered when his truck became stuck on state forest land on Sunday. According to the DNR, one of its officers encountered a man and a woman who had gotten their car stuck in a water hole, the TV station reported. The man has not been publicly identified.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI - An Alma man died in a head-on crash Saturday afternoon in Northern Michigan, police said. Troopers responded to a crash report around 1:10 p.m., Nov. 27 to South Garfield Road near East Blair Town Hall Road in Paradise Township in Grand Traverse County, said the Michigan State Police in a release. Todd Schuster, the 50-year-old Alma man, was driving northbound in a Chevrolet Equinox on Garfield Road when he lost control and slid into oncoming traffic, police said. Paradise Township firefighters pulled Schuster out of the vehicle, police said, and paramedics transported him to Munson Hospital in Traverse City. Read more from MLive:1 dead, 1 seriously injured in crash near Ann ArborWinter weather creates dangerous roads in Southeast Michigan, officials say‘Your season is over’: Michigan State Police poke fun at OSU fans in message after Wolverine victory

A man has died after his vehicle crashed head-on into another vehicle Saturday afternoon in Grand Traverse County.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A 54-year-old Michigan is accused of sexually abusing multiple minor victims. Troopers from the Michigan State Police Cadillac Post had been investigating Wisniewski since they received a tip from Child Protective Services about an alleged sexual abuse complaint on Nov. 2. Troopers worked with CPS to identify possible victims, who were then interviewed. A search warrant was executed at the suspect’s residence on Nov. 10. Wisniewski was arrested and lodged in the Grand Traverse County Jail.

The following charts show confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths in Grand Traverse County, Michigan dating back to January 2020.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A Michigan man was arrested after used Facebook to make threats against downtown Traverse City. The 24-year-old Traverse City man, who police say they’ve had previous encounters with due to his known anti-police behavior, has been charged with false report or threat of terrorism. The incident occurred on Monday night when Facebook alerted Michigan State Police about a video posted on social media of a man making threats towards downtown Traverse City. The suspect was lodged in the Grand Traverse County Jail where he is awaiting arraignment. The MSP was assisted by deputies from the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Traverse City Police Department.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- Justin Greene, a 26-year-old Traverse City man has been charged in connection to the death of a man who was killed Friday in a three-car crash. The crash took place around 7:45 p.m. on Oct. 22. Trailer and another driver were waiting at the intersection of Hammond and Lafranier roads when police allege Greene’s car crashed into Trailer’s. After being hit by Greene’s car, Trailer’s car then crashed into the car in front of him being driven by an 85-year-old man, who is also from Traverse City. Up North Live also reports Trailer was a noted member of the community and served as a paramedic in neighboring Benzie County for several years.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI -- A 66-year-old man was killed Friday evening after his car was hit from behind by another driver, sending his car into the car in front of him. According to the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office, an 85-year-old Traverse City man was preparing to turn eastbound onto Hammond Road from Lafranier Road around 7:45 p.m. The 66-year-old Traverse City man was in his own vehicle behind the vehicle operated by the 85-year-old when a third vehicle traveling southbound on Lafranier Road struck the vehicle operated by the 66-year-old man. The 66-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. The third car involved in the crash was being driven by a 26-year-old Traverse City man who was arrested and lodged in the Grand Traverse County Jail for operating while impaired causing death and reckless driving causing death.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – An intruder who a woman briefly thought was her husband was arrested after he called the police on himself in Northern Michigan. The trooper searched the area and located the suspect, 43-year-old Kevin William Tighe from Williamsburg, in the backyard of his parents’ home nearby. Later that evening Tighe called 911 to report he was lost, police said. When troopers arrived, Tighe flagged them down and he was taken into custody and lodged in the Grand Traverse County Jail. Tighe was arraigned in the 86th District Court in Grand Traverse County on Oct. 14.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A mother monitoring her daughter’s social media accounts discovered the girl had been sexually assaulted, leading to the arrest of a suspect, police said. The woman had been monitoring her daughter’s social media accounts and found a disturbing post on TikTok. An investigation led to the arrest of John Marcus Sikoski Vanhorn, 19, of Grawn, the release said. He is charged with one count of criminal sexual conduct assault with intent to commit penetration, a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. READ MORE:Man charged in ‘random execution’ of panhandler outside Michigan gas stationMissing woman, 31, found dead in Northern Michigan woods, police suspect homicideMan charged in fatal shooting of bystander outside Michigan bar

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, MI – A woman is in serious condition after a man allegedly ignored a stop sign, causing a two-vehicle rollover crash in Northern Michigan early Monday, police said. A 62-year-old Lake City man who was driving of the second vehicle, a gray Ford pick-up truck, was not injured. A 48-year-old female Jeep passenger was seriously injured while the 15-year-old female driver sustained minor injuries. A 48-year-old female Jeep passenger was seriously injured while the 15-year-old female driver sustained minor injuries. A 48-year-old female Jeep passenger was seriously injured while the 15-year-old female driver sustained minor injuries.

BLAIR TOWNSHIP, MI – A Michigan State Police vehicle was hit in a three-vehicle crash in Grand Traverse County on Wednesday morning, Sept. 22. Pleasant woman struck the patrol car from behind. The impact sent the patrol car into northbound traffic where it was hit by a red Honda Pilot driven by a 20-year-old woman from Cedar. Pleasant woman was taken to Munson Hospital in Traverse City for treatment of broken ribs and foot. The crash remains under investigation.

A prosecutor has filed criminal complaints against two northern Michigan men in connection with an attack on a newspaper reporter covering a meeting by a group opposing masks and vaccination mandates.

A newspaper reporter says he was punched in the face while covering an anti-mask event near Traverse City.

GREEN LAKE TOWNSHIP, MI – A woman is dead after a semi-truck versus bicycle crash in Grand Traverse County Tuesday morning, Aug. 24, 9&10 News reports. The crash occurred around 6 a.m. when the woman apparently turned into the path of the truck near the intersection of US-31 and South Long Lake Road, known as Interlochen Corners, in Green Lake Township, the report said. The crash remains under investigation. The woman’s identity has not been released. READ MORE:Body found in vehicle that sparked fire at Traverse City motelYoung Michigan police K-9 dies of heart attackBlack bear euthanized after hit-and-run crash in Northern MichiganNorthern Michigan man takes plea deal in killing of ex-girlfriendMore than 20% of recent COVID cases, hospitalizations have been among Michigan’s fully vaccinated81 Michigan counties should mask up regardless of vaccine status, per CDC

Michigan’s attorney general said Friday she would not file charges against a county commissioner who displayed a rifle during a livestreamed meeting, an incident some described as illustrating racial and cultural tensions in the Lake Michigan resort area.

An apparently homesick bear who was moved from an area in northwestern Michigan where he had raided bird feeders and trash cans has traveled back to the same location.

Michigan’s National Cherry Festival that brings fruit fans to Traverse City each year is returning this summer after canceling 2020 events due to the coronavirus pandemic.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – A 71-year-old elected official in the Traverse City area claims she hasn’t had a raise in eight years because the county wants to force her out of office. Peggy Haines, the register of deeds in Grand Traverse County, has filed an age discrimination lawsuit. She has been in office since 2000 and was reelected in November, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported. A register of deeds records all documents related to local real estate, including deeds, mortgages, land contracts and liens. Grand Traverse commissioners considered a merger last year, but it was voted down.

The Michigan Attorney General's office is considering whether charges should be filed against a county commissioner who displayed a rifle at a livestreamed public meeting.

Ron Clous, an elected member of the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners, was at home during the livestreamed meeting Wednesday, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported. “The only thing I know about them (Proud Boys) is when they came and spoke to us," Clous said. "To have a public official do that during a public meeting is horrendous.”Betsy Coffia, a fellow county commissioner, labeled Clous' action “deeply disturbing." “I am not a member of Proud Boys,” Hentschel said Wednesday. I’ve met Black Proud Boys, I’ve met multi-racial Puerto Rican Proud Boys and they inform me they also have gay Proud Boys.

KINGLSEY, Mich. – Michigan State Police located an abducted Wisconsin boy after a resident reported seeing the boy and his father in Kingsley. Azariah Petrick, 4, was reportedly taken by his father, Mark Anthony Petrick, on July 22. They were from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. Troopers found Mark Petrick and the boy in a motorhome. Mark Petrick was uncooperative and gave police a fake name, officials said.

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. A Grand Traverse County jail administrator was arrested Thursday, charged with multiple felonies, including criminal sexual conduct and embezzlement. The arrest and charges come after an investigation by the Grand Traverse County Sheriffs Office. According to a press release, 48-year-old Todd Ritter, of Lake Ann, is charged with embezzlement by a public official over $50, larceny in a building, second-degree criminal sexual conduct, common law offenses - misconduct in office and willful neglect on duty. Reports of Ritters unprofessional conduct were initially examined in April 2019 by the county sheriffs office, placing him on administrative leave. Michigan State Police conducted an investigation following the county and the case was reviewed by the Attorney Generals office in April 2020Ritter is scheduled for an arraignment Friday.

GARFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. An Amber Alert has been issued in Grand Traverse County after a 15-year-old girl went missing on Sunday afternoon. Anna Mae Taylor of Garfield Township is believed to be in the company of a male named Brandon Reyes, who is also from Garfield Township, officials shared in a Facebook post. Taylor is described as standing 5 feet, 4 inches tall, weighting 110 pounds and has brown hair and hazel eyes. Reyes is described as standing 5 feet, 6 inches tall, weighing 110 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Traverse Central Dispatch at 231-922-4550.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. Lake Michigan is having a warm summer. MORE: Soak it up: Great Lakes surface temps are really, really warmThe summer high is 75.6 degrees recorded in August 2016, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA. Im loving this, Whitney Miller, a swim instructor, told the Traverse City Record-Eagle. I was a popsicle.The air temperature in the Traverse City topped 87 degrees for 11 consecutive days, according to the Midwest Regional Climate Center. Its a rare occurrence up here to get that long of a stretch of that weather and not cool down at least for a day or two, said meteorologist Matt Gillen of the National Weather Service.

LONG LAKE TOWNSHIP, Mich. A 57-year-old man is facing criminal sexual conduct charges after allegedly assaulting a minor in Long Lake Township. Ricky Alan Byard of Traverse City has been charged with three counts of criminal sexual conduct in the second degree with a person under 13 years old. At the time, Byard was dating someone in close connection with the victim, Michigan State Police say. The victim reportedly disclosed multiple incidents of sexual assault to a family member, who then contacted police. Byard is being held at the Grand Traverse County Jail on a $50,000 bond, police say.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. A sunken boat must be removed from the bottom of Grand Traverse Bay in northern Michigan, according to state officials. Federal and state authorities said Thursday they are working to arrange the salvage operation for the 33-foot-long vessel that sank last month, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported. Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy spokesman Nick Assendelft said officials dont want that left in the water.The boat took on water June 19 and sank. The boats owner, Todd Elsenheimer, said he has insurance on the lake cruiser and his plan all along has been to remove it from the bay. The sunken boat continues to be monitored and it does not appear any of the 70 gallons of fuel believed to be on board has leaked, according to the Coast Guard.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. Officials have identified eight possible coronavirus (COVID-19) exposure locations -- including bars and vineyards -- in Traverse City after they were visited by a group of people who tested positive for the virus and admitted to not following any of the safety guidelines. Officials from the Grand Traverse County Health Department said a group of people visited the area last week and admitted they didnt practice any social distancing or COVID-19 prevention measures. Anyone who was at these locations at any of the corresponding times should self-monitor for coronavirus symptoms for 14 days. Anyone who is concerned they might have come in contact with the group should call the health departments Communicable Disease Line at 231-995-6801. While self-monitoring, everyone who might have been exposed should keep away from family members and friends as much as possible.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. Health officials in Grand Traverse County say that two people visiting the area from out-of-state have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). The Grand Traverse County Health Department says the two were visiting family this weekend. Both travelers were symptomatic and one has been hospitalized, according to Traverse City Ticker. The Grand Traverse area was included in the first batch of regions reopening in the state, which started last Friday. As of Sunday, Grand Traverse County reported 23 total COVID-19 cases, and five total deaths.

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Thursday that she is partially reopening businesses and lifting medical restrictions across the entire state. READ: Michigan Gov. In Traverse City, restaurants and bars started to reopen at midnight Friday. One bar in Traverse City has asked people who are not from the area to stay out of the bar.

DETROIT – A lake effect system will bring two days of snow, high winds and lakeshore flooding issues to Northern Michigan. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Friday for several counties including Leelanau, Antrim, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Missaukee. Additionally, Northern, Central and Eastern parts of the Upper Peninsula could see several inches of snow, as well, including Marquette, Alger, Luce and Schoolcraft counties. Here’s more from the National Weather Service:NWS Gaylord: Portions of the area will have significant accumulating lake effect snow today through Friday. (NWS)Strong sustained northwest winds will produce lakeshore flooding today and tonight along most lakeshores of Lake Michigan and a small portion of lakeshores along Lake Huron.

KINGSLEY, Mich. - Police say two Michigan prison officers found dead last week were shot. Authorities in Grand Traverse County wont publicly say it was a murder-suicide, although they say theres no threat to the public. Tara Kelley and Angelina Winn were found dead Friday at their home near Kingsley. Both transferred to Oaks Correctional Facility, near Manistee, after the Pugsley prison was closed. The 53-year-old Kelley was named officer of the year at Pugsley in 2013.

Where do Michigan counties rank among the healthiest in America? U.S. News released their 2019 Healthiest Communities Rankings this week, ranking nearly 3,000 counties on a range of categories. Population healthEquityEducationEconomyHousingFood & nutritionEnvironmentPublic safetyCommunity vtalityInfrasturctureRelated: 6 Michigan cities listed among worst places to live in USWell, no Michigan county ranked that well on the list. Here's where local counties ranked in the top 500:No. 495: Benzie CountyThe healthiest ranked counties were Douglas County (Colorado), Los Alamos County (New Mexico) and Falls Church (Virginia).