Afternoon News Update: April 18

Janesville Police are warning people of a dangerous batch of heroin. Two overdoses within two hours on Wednesday night have led them to send out the strong warning. Both users did survive, but police say this should be an alarming wake-up call to others in the area. They also say the drug people are buying is dangerous and far from pure.
Rockford fire crews responded to a garage fire early this morning on the city’s southeast side. It happened in the 2900 block of Hillside Court. When crews arrived they discovered a three-car-garage fire. The blaze was controlled with 20 minutes. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
A trial for a Peoria man accused of killing his wife on Valentine's Day 2013 has been delayed again. Nathan Leuthold has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the death of Denise Leuthold. Authorities accuse him of staging a break-in at their home and shooting the woman to death.
The Better Business Bureau is warning people of possible Boston Marathon charity scams. The BBB says illegitimate charities and scams are at the forefront with the anniversary of the bombing. They say after tragic events, scammers often play to the emotions of consumers. The BBB recommends that consumers do careful research before donating to any charity that claims to be involved with the Boston Marathon.
The state of Illinois will be investing $4.8 million for construction projects in Northern Illinois. Governor Pat Quinn's office says the tasks will be funded by the Illinois Jobs Now! construction program. It is the largest of its kind in Illinois history. These projects will improve traffic flow and safety in Lee, Ogle and Winnebago Counties.
The public now has 45 days to comment on proposed rules governing the new medical marijuana industry in Illinois. Patients would pay $100 a year to apply for a medical marijuana card and disabled people and veterans would pay $50. The rules also spell out how entrepreneurs can apply for a limited number of licenses to grow or sell cannabis products.
Mumps may be making a comeback in Illinois. Health officials say 65 cases have been reported in seven counties across the state this year. There were fewer than 30 cases in Illinois in 2013.
Transit officials have announced plans to untangle one of Chicago's worst commuter train choke points. The trains currently have to come to a halt around Belmont station to allow Brown Line trains to cross. It causes daily delays for 150,000 passengers. The CTA wants to lift the Brown Line with an overpass.

Categories: News