Afternoon News Update: March 5

The names of the victims who were involved in a deadly Beloit fire have been released. Officials say 61-year-old Clint Christensen and 33-year-old Jamie Christensen were killed in the fire. 60-year-old Caren Christensen is in critical condition at an area hospital. The blaze happened early this morning just after 4am in the 1900 block of Fairview Drive. By the time emergency personnel arrived at the scene, the house was already engulfed in heavy fire and smoke.
A Dakota teen with mental disabilities has gone missing. 15-year-old Tatyana Brown was last seen on Tuesday walking out of the Crusader Clinic along Broadway in Rockford. Her mom says she may have been picked up by a teen from Chicago who goes by the name “Red Savage.” Brown is 5’2” and weighs 150 pounds. She is originally from Chicago, but has recently been living in Dakota with her aunt and uncle. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
A post game brawl between two NIC 10 rivals at the Belvidere North 4A Regional is now being looked into by the IHSA. Moments after Jefferson beat East on a buzzer beater Tuesday night a fight broke out involving almost fifty fans and players from both teams. Police were called and had to clear the gymnasium. Officials say the IHSA has spoken with administrators from both schools and is currently gathering more information. Jefferson advances to Friday’s Regional Championship game against Huntley, but could be without some of its players who were involved.
A crash on a snowy Chicago interstate has sent nine people to the hospital. Officials say eight of the nine people involved were children, but none were injured. The accident happened this morning on Interstate 94 in the city's south-side involving a car, Megabus and a day care van. The crash is believed to be caused by bad weather conditions from this morning’s snow storm.
A popular ice cream flavor is being recalled from several Aldi stores. Belmont Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough is being called back from its Northern Michigan maker because of a nut that’s not declared on the label. People allergic to nuts could be at risk as a result. House of Flavors said the ice cream was shipped only to Aldi stores in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.
Winnebago County will not be issuing gay marriage licenses despite approval from the Attorney General. Our news partners at Eyewitness News talked with county clerk Margie Mullins who said they will wait until June 1, which is the original date lawmakers set for legalization. Mullins says their system is not ready for the process.
Governor Pat Quinn will be visiting two of the Illinois communities hardest hit by November’s tornadoes. He’s offering $45 million in state aid to Washington and Brookport after FEMA denied a request for assistance to local governments.
A proposal that would make it illegal for motorists to smoke in cars with children is advancing in the Illinois Legislature. The measure was approved by a Senate panel on Tuesday. Senator Ira Silverstein, who drafted the legislation, says secondhand smoke in confined areas is dangerous for children.
Beginning today, officials will be closing Forest Avenue between Mulberry and Andrew Street for sewer repair work. Traffic control measures will be provided and motorists are urged to use caution while driving near the work zone. The work is expected to be completed by March 12 weather permitting.

Categories: News