Ohio News

NEW ALBANY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Intel's most recent financial report exceeded Wall Street projections, an optimistic update for the chipmaker bringing a $28 billion semiconductor manufacturing facility to Licking County.

On Thursday, Intel announced its third-quarter financial report, the first since the federal government took a stake in the company. CFO David Zinsner said the quarter was "stronger than expected" and that demand -- driven by AI -- is outpacing supply. See previous coverage of the federal acquisition in the video player above.

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Generally, Intel leaders did not discuss Ohio One. Instead, the company celebrated completing construction in Arizona on a fifth fab to produce highly advanced chips. Leaders were also excited about increased reliance on AI, which they said is driving interest in Intel's products and services.

Increased demand is encouraging news for Intel, which said the future of the Intel Ohio One plant hinges on gaining new external customers. Intel said its third fiscal quarter generated $13.7 billion, a 3% improvement from this time last year.

Intel also confirmed it laid off more than 13,000 employees over the past three months. The move was part of an active effort to downsize the company and remove bureaucracy. Intel said it had 88,400 employees as of Sept. 27, down from 101,400 in late June. The company plans to end 2025 with just 75,000 employees, so more layoffs may be incoming.

It's been a tumultuous few years for Intel, which delayed its Ohio One plant into 2031 in February. In March, Lip Bu-Tan was appointed as CEO and began trying to remedy prevailing fiscal issues through restructuring efforts and up to 20% layoffs. At Intel's last quarterly financial announcement, Tan said they were further slowing construction in Ohio.

When conservative lawmakers -- including Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and President Donald Trump -- called for Tan's removal, he visited the White House and walked away with an unusual proposition. In August, Trump and Intel completed an agreement authorizing the release of promised government funding in exchange for roughly 10% equity stake in the company.

Speaking on an investors' conference call, Tan voiced his gratitude to Trump for the arrangement. He said the company is "fully committed to advancing the Trump administration's vision" for domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

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Under the federal agreement, Intel is set to receive $8.9 billion in federal funding. On Thursday, Intel said it received $5.7 billion so far, on top of $2.2 billion released before Trump took office. Intel said it has been unable to fully connect with federal offices due to the ongoing government shutdown, leaving some company questions unanswered.

"Due to the current U.S. Government shutdown, Intel has been unable to conclude its consultation with the staff of the SEC," Intel's disclosure read. "If the staff of the SEC were to have a different view of the appropriate accounting treatment of these transactions, Intel may revise its third quarter 2025 financial results."

Intel has not yet filed all of the forms it typically would during a fiscal update, so there will likely be more details publicized in the near future.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A new bill that would get rid of school levies and Ohio's EdChoice program had its first hearing this week.

Sen. Andrew Brenner (R-Delaware) introduced Senate Bill 93, which would establish a school funding system without vouchers or levies. Instead, Brenner proposes establishing a financing system supported by statewide taxes. See previous coverage of school funding in the video player above.

Under S.B. 93, school districts would no longer be able to levy property or income tax levies. Instead, Brenner proposes a statewide 20-mill property tax, to be distributed across public and charter schools. He also suggests raising the state sales tax by 1.75%, bringing the total tax to 7.5%. All of the additional sales tax revenue would go directly to education funding.

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"This shift is designed to distribute the tax burden more evenly and stabilize how schools are funded across Ohio," Brenner said.

The plan would fund schools on a per-pupil basis, and Brenner expects to allocate about $11,535 per student. He said the funding would "follow" the student to their public or charter school of choice, eliminating the need for some education voucher programs.

Ohio's current funding program also operates per pupil but includes a complex formula that generates a per-pupil base cost tailored to each district, not a statewide figure. Brenner hopes his changes would address concerns with Ohio's school funding that have been ongoing for more than 30 years.

In the 1990s, Ohio's school funding system was declared unconstitutional. In part, the Ohio Supreme Court took issue with an overreliance on property taxes, still a sore subject in school funding. Ohio legislators largely agree that property tax reform is necessary, but there are concerns about how reform could gut school funding.

Brenner said about 50% of all school funding currently comes from local property or income taxes, with the state contributing about 40% and remaining funds coming from federal programs. In central Ohio, local tax revenue often makes up a higher percentage than Brenner's average.

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Columbus City Schools, the state's largest district, said 68.6% of its funding comes from local taxes. In districts like Dublin and Bexley, which receive less state support, local taxes contribute about 85% of district revenue, according to district financial estimates.

He said the system would be based on student enrollment and would adjust for additional factors like special education or English learners. Brenner's suggestion also allows voluntary consolidation of two or more school districts.

Brenner also proposes shifting the responsibility of busing students from public schools to regional Educational Service Centers (ESCs). Brenner said relying on ESCs could require districts to synchronize their bell schedules.

"Many ESCs already coordinate regional services and are better equipped to manage transportation efficiently across districts in their regions," Brenner said. "This change would help relieve local schools of a significant logistical and financial burden."

Brenner said S.B. 93 would need a companion piece, Senate Joint Resolution 4, which is also pending in the Finance Committee. If approved, it would amend the state constitution to allow Ohio to assume all outstanding public school debt, removing the burden from local schools. The resolution requires approval from the House, Senate and Ohio voters.

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"With more than 600 school districts in Ohio, this voluntary option would promote efficiency while respecting local control," Brenner said.

Brenner is a proponent of school choice programs like EdChoice, and even hosted the first joint caucus on school choice earlier this month. Under S.B. 93, Brenner said two of Ohio's five state scholarship programs would no longer be necessary: EdChoice and EdChoice-Exp.

Brenner plans for funding to "follow the student to the school of their choice," allocating the same amount per student to public and charter schools. EdChoice offers $8,408 for high schoolers and $6,166 for grades K-8, so Brenner's plan would allocate more funding per student to nonpublic schools.

Ohio's school funding is set for the next two years, but legislators are enacting property tax relief changes that could reduce funding before the next biennial budget. Legislators already successfully eliminated several types of school levies this fall.

On Wednesday, the Ohio House passed two bills seeking to relieve property tax burdens. House Bills 186 and 335 would limit property tax increases and inside millage levies to below the rate of inflation. Local schools worry these bills, if approved, would cost them; Canal Winchester estimates H.B. 186 alone would cut $3.3 million from its budget annually.

S.B. 93 had its first hearing on Tuesday and is awaiting further hearings in the Senate Finance Committee.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Author R.L. Stine has been making children laugh and cry with his spooky and often funny children’s books for the last 33 years.

The Columbus-area native was back in his hometown Thursday, met by a crowd and a special honor.

The Leveque Tower looked like it was dripping with green slime, and Columbus City Hall was also bathed in green light in honor of Stine, back in his hometown to unveil the scariest street that now bears his name.

"Everything's a surprise to me,” he said. “I think no one's more amazed by all this than I am."

Grant Avenue in the Italian Village is now known as R.L. Stine Way. Robert Lawrence Stine grew up in a small house in Bexley.

“When I write these books, I think back to my time in Bexley and what it looked like, and so a lot of the settings are pretty much what I remember from here in the books,” he said.

Stine was nine years old when he started writing using an old typewriter.

"I was this weird kid in my room typing all the time, typing, and my mother would stand outside my door and she would say, ‘What's wrong with you? Go outside and play. What's wrong with you? Get out! Stop typing. Go outside.’ Worst advice I ever got,” Stine said.

He’s now sold more than 400 million books worldwide, mostly through the Goosebumps series, spooking children with ghouls, ghosts, and every monster imaginable.

Watch NBC4's full interview with R.L. Stine in the video player below.

"I never planned to be scary,” he said. “I always just wanted to be funny. I wrote joke books and I did a lot of funny books for kids."

Stine said it was an editor who advised him to follow the horror route, which just caught on.

"When you, when you sneak up behind somebody and you go, ‘Boo,’ what's the first thing they do?” he said. “They gasp and then they laugh. It's the same visceral reaction, I think."

One of his biggest fans, Owen Lee, 9, came from about an hour away to meet the author.

"I like a good horror book, but then I love how they have the twists at the end that are just outright hilarious,” Owen Lee said.

He even had a Goosebumps-themed seventh birthday and waited three hours in the cold to meet his favorite author last year.

"Reading is a big part of our family,” Owen’s mother Sarah Lee said. “It's something that's really important to me as a parent to pass on to my kids and the Goosebumps in particular."

Owen and hundreds of other fans wore their Goosebumps t-shirts and packed into the Coumbus Metropolitan Library to see the man who wrote all the stories they love.

"He's published all these books and all these great books, and he's just really my hero,” Owen Lee said.

There are events continuing through the month to honor Stine and his legacy of children’s literature.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Columbus city leaders are pushing for more pay transparency in the workplace to try to close gender and racial wage gaps.

"Since women came into the workforce in full force, we've only closed the pay gap by a quarter," councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla said. "It continues to be an issue for women."

Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla is proposing pay transparency legislation that would require salary ranges on all job postings. She hosted a public hearing on it Thursday. She said it's about creating a fairer system for everyone, especially as the city continues to grow. 

"As we think about all the businesses that are going to be coming into Columbus or the businesses that will start here in Columbus, we want to make sure that people are not just coming to Columbus to do business, but they're doing the business of Columbus," Barroso de Padilla said. 

According to Barroso de Padilla the legislation builds on the city's existing pay equity law that bans employees from asking about salary history which was a move designed to stop past pay disparities from following workers into new jobs. 

"This was a time to put the stake in the ground, to add equity in the system, to make sure that we're investing in our people and our families," Barroso de Padilla said. "That's how you can ensure you get a little bit more in every paycheck to save up for that house, to get that bus pass."

Several supporters spoke during public testimony and drew on their own personal experiences.

"I applied for a role that shared the salary range, and I really deeply valued that transparency," Zora's House managing director Liz Gordon-Canlas said. "And it excited me about the opportunity."

If approved, the measure would require employers to list clear salary ranges which leaders said would help job seekers negotiate more fairly.

"When they come into these jobs knowing what their worth is, what the job is, they feel trust and confidence in that employer," president of the Women's Fund of Central Ohio, Kelley Griesmer, said. "They also feel safety in the fact that they've accepted a salary that they were able to help choose and not just wonder about." 

Barroso de Padilla said the proposed legislation would help level the playing field for women, people of color, immigrants, and others who have historically been underpaid for doing the same work. She said it also helps businesses attract the right talent. 

The measure would apply to employers in Columbus or any job largely performed within city limits. 

"We think that this is the future to evolve to this model of telling people more in the beginning and hopefully not replacing them in the end," Griesmer said.

Columbus City Council is still taking public testimony. The proposed legislation will go up for a vote at council's meeting Nov. 3. If approved, the change wouldn't take effect for a year which would allow time for education and outreach before enforcement would begin. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Local leaders gathered at the Linden Community Center today to have a conversation about what's next for the city of Columbus as the area continues to grow.

At the center of the Linden Leadership Forum was Mayor Andrew Ginther. He talked about how city leaders are working to move Linden -- and all of Columbus -- forward.

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Topics ranged from affordable housing, public safety and youth programming. The goal was to start a dialogue between local leaders, identifying strategies for growth and development in the future.

"What we have to continue to do is be consistent, and make sure that we're delivering," Ginther said. "Making sure that small businesses that are starting up along this corridor are here. The majority of small businesses don't survive 18 to 36 months, so we've got to make sure we wrap our arms around these businesses as they get started up, and make sure they're successful."

Today's forum provided a space for residents, business owners and civic leaders to ask the mayor questions and give their input.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A battle between Ohio State and the team up north has begun off the field.

The 44th annual Blood Battle is underway as the Buckeyes look to defend their title for the fourth straight year.

Until Nov. 26, fans of both teams will be competing to see which fanbase can donate the most blood.

The Versiti Blood Center of Ohio hosted a donation drive today at the Schottenstein Center. It's all in an effort to inspire the next generation of donors,

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Joe Gantz, the Director of Donor Services, is a former Buckeye. He knows first-hand how intense the rivalry is, and he's hoping to see Ohio State pull off another win.

"Through all my five years of playing at Ohio State, we never lost to that team up north, so hoping to keep that tradition going here since I started with Versiti," Gantz said.

There will be more than 50 blood drives during the competition, according to Gantz, including two at Ohio Stadium on Nov. 4 and 18.

Last year, around 3,100 pints of blood were collected, which can save more than 9,000 lives.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Every year, the Columbus Blue Jackets dedicate a game to children battling cancer. Today, to get ready for that game and for the team's 25th anniversary, they brought together current and past pediatric cancer heroes.

For the current heroes, the day is all about being a kid. They had a photoshoot in their special heroes jersey, played games and met some CBJ players.

Past heroes had the chance to talk with current heroes about their experience and the lasting impact of the organization.

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Sullivan Plancon was diagnosed with cancer when he was six months old, and is now 19 years cancer-free. He says he wants to remind the kids to stay positive and soak this in.

"It's really cool to be able to meet people that went through the same things again," Plancon said. "Really the only thing I can do is give off positive energy. That's the one thing that you got to keep going with it."

This year's annual "Hockey Fights Cancer" game is Nov. 13 at Nationwide Arena.

Central Ohio Weather and Radar

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCHM) – With temperatures getting colder in central Ohio, many are turning on their heat for the first time since last winter.

Experts at AEP Ohio and Atlas Butler Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing said regular maintenance of home heating systems is important to keep you warm and utility bills low.

“Maintenance is the biggest key for making your equipment last as long as possible and make sure that it will function when we do get to those single digits or negative temperatures,” Atlas Butler HVAC Team Leader Justin Smith said.

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Smith said his team has been busy over the last few days as people turn their furnaces on.

“All of the calls we get at this time of year are they try to run it for the first time, haven’t changed the filter in a few months, and then the furnace doesn't run or it runs for a short period of time,” Smith said.

He said simply changing furnace filters will help in most situations.

Smith also said that before it gets colder, now is a good time to get a professional out to your house to make sure things are running smoothly.

“You get your oil changed on your car and make sure your car is working okay, but when it comes to your HVAC system, that is the hardest working system in your house, sometimes that gets overlooked,” Smith said.

Keeping systems maintained is one way to conserve energy and save money.

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Experts at AEP Ohio said there are some easy things people can do at every day.

“You can open your blinds to allow natural sunlight to help your home, close those same blinds at night to retain the heat within the room,” AEP Director of Operations Don Chesler said. “You also want to make sure that your ceiling fans are rotating clockwise, that pushes the heat down into the room.”

Chesler said another way to save energy and money is to keep your home’s thermostat set at or below 68 degrees.

“Your usage and the amount you pay on your bill are tightly correlated,” Chesler said.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Following a sale approval by a Franklin County Probate Court judge, there is more optimism about what could be coming to a large Far East Side property that has been vacant for years.

“I think it's an eyesore right now, I think it's a breeding ground for drama and so something needs to be done with it," said Danella Hicks, the founder and executive director of All THAT - Teens Hopeful About Tomorrow, a non-profit on the East Side.

She was referring to the property of the former Fort Rapids Indoor Water Park and Hotel. It's hard to miss from I-70. Parts of the property are in bad shape, and it's been vacant since 2016. In 2018, a burst pipe led to millions of gallons of water flooding out of the hotel windows, and last year, there was a massive fire at the site. Hicks sees the property every day.

“When the fire happened, it's like, 'We need to do something before it gets even worse,'" she said. 

Developers' plans have been stalled by litigation. With the judge recently approving the sale, the plans to convert the property into hundreds of affordable housing units and a community services hub are a step closer to reality. The California-based developers are working with a local church on the project.

“I’m excited,” Hicks said. “I'm excited that there is a plan. I think for so long nothing was happening. And so, if someone's excited about coming here, doing something, bringing some housing, improving our community, I'm definitely interested in seeing it happen.”

Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin represents the district where the property sits.

“You've got to know this has been in court for a long time going back and forth, other folks have said they were going to buy it and not been able to move forward, so this really is a day of true hope," he said.

Hardin said housing is a priority for city leaders, so they welcome plans and ideas to help the issue.

“This could be a real linchpin in the east side's development, so this is a positive step in the right direction,” he said. “It still seems early, but that's why I lean on hope.”

The city is trying to work with local faith organizations to bring more housing to Columbus. Hardin said those looking to develop the former Fort Rapids site were at one of those discussions.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Columbus police, city and community leaders are emphasizing the importance of locking up guns to keep them away from children. 

The call comes after a 9-year-old boy was injured Wednesday in an accidental shooting; a 27-year-old man is now facing charges in connection with the incident. 

Columbus Division of Police data shows there have been 15 accidental shootings in Columbus this year, four of them fatal. Police and community leaders said all of them were preventable.

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“This simple gun lock saves lives,” Thomas Cunningham with the Onyx Gun Club said.

Cunningham travels to schools and community groups across central Ohio to teach the importance of responsible gun ownership.

“We have a gun safety pledge and that's important because when we're in the schools, this is how we link the program to the parents,” Cunningham said.

He brings gun locks and lockboxes, teaches students how to use them, and then has participants sign a pledge.

“What happens is the kids take the Lethal Means safety program home to them by taking the pledge with them, and then they go over the safety plans with their parents, and we have parents call all the time and say, ‘I never really thought about locking up my firearms until kids bought this safety pledge home,’” Cunningham said.

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Cunnigham said he’s had thousands of people sign gun safety pledges.

When he hears about incidents like Wednesday’s shooting on Lonsdale Road, it is discouraging. 

“The more gun locks we can give out, the more we can motivate gun owners, the more responsible gun owners we can make,” Cunningham said.

Court records said the 9-year-old was in the basement with his 27-year-old stepbrother; the man told police he was taking the gun upstairs when he tripped and it accidentally went off, hitting the boy. The stepbrother is charged with negligent assault.

“If you own a gun, absolutely do everything in your power to make sure that that gun is either locked up or secured in a way that not one single child can get to it because, unfortunately, this young man didn't wake up planning to be charged with a crime,” Columbus Police Sgt. James Fuqua said.

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Fuqua said accidental shootings happen more often than they would like. 

“I just think a lot of people just think it won't happen to them,” Fuqua said. “These are cases and situations where my child won't do it, or I know where my gun i,s or I don't think anything will happen, and unfortunately, when it does happen to you, you're one of those people like, ‘I can't believe it happened to me.’”

City leaders said there are several places around the city to get a gun lock or safe for free.

“We hand these out through the Department of Public Health,” Columbus City Councilmember Emmanuel Remy said. “These are in the gun safes, but lock your guns, keep them stored away and out of the reach of kids.”

Columbus attempted to pass safe gun storage laws in the past, but that is currently on hold due to a lawsuit.

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“We'll continue to look at what's sensible for the residents using our home rule here in the City of Columbus to do what's right for our residents,” Remy said. “We want to make sure that everyone feels safe, and certainly this is one piece of it.”

Cunningham said if you are looking for a gun lock, reach out to the Onyx Gun Club to receive one for free.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The second baby elephant born this year at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium was welcomed Tuesday night.

The calf, born to 38-year-old Asian elephant Phoebe, weighs 222 pounds. The calf is reaching milestones like standing and nursing, as well as remaining curious about his surroundings.

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Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, said the historic birth is something to celebrate.

"The trumpeting of two calves in one year is music to our ears, and a win for Asian elephant conservation,” Schmid said. “Thanks to years of planning with zoo partners, Phoebe and her baby boy are doing well, and we can’t wait to share this joy with our community.”

This is the first time in the zoo's history that two elephant calves have been born in one year.

"It is a remarkable milestone for the Zoo and a meaningful step forward for Asian elephant conservation. This growth reflects the vision behind the multi-year expansion of the Zoo’s elephant habitat, which was designed to provide more space for elephants to roam and support natural herd dynamics," the zoo said in a media release.

Adam Felts, vice president of animal care at the Columbus Zoo, said the achievement is helping the zoo meet long-term goals.

"Two calves in one year is exactly the kind of herd dynamic we hoped to create," Felts said.

The calf's father, Sabu, lives at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. The pairing of Sabu and Phoebe was advised by the Species Survival Plan, a program coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, "to support healthy, genetically-diverse populations of threatened and endangered species in professional care."

Phoebe lives in the Columbus Zoo's Asia Quest region with her son Frankie (born 2011), and other elephants, including new mom Sunny and her calf Rita Jean.

Phoebe and her calf are not yet viewable to the public to allow uninterrupted bonding between mom and baby.

• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)
• Phoebe's calf, born Oct. 21 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. This is the second elephant calf born this year at the zoo. (PHOTO COURTESTY AMANDA CARBERRY/COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM)

"For now, Phoebe and her calf are settling into a calm routine behind the scenes, including carefully-timed introductions to other members of the herd," the release said.

For updates on viewing opportunities, naming plans and other milestones, visit the Columbus Zoo's social media platforms.

As an endangered species, Asian elephant populations have "declined by at least 50% over the last three generations." Habitat loss, degradation, and poaching drive the decline.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium helped to establish the Center for Species Survival for Asian Elephant with the Wildlife Trust of India and the IUCN Species Survival Commission, located in India.

For information on the Columbus Zoo's conservation efforts, events and programs, visit the zoo on social media or click here.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A dog previously determined to be dangerous and its puppies are now officially in the custody of Franklin County Animal Control.

A Franklin County judge made the decision Thursday morning.

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Animal control records show the dog, Luna, bit someone in 2024. In March, two other dogs from the same house brutally attacked a boy. Those dogs were shot by police.

The family of the boy was concerned about Luna and the puppies being allowed back to their owners.

That owner is facing several criminal charges.

MARYSVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) -- U.S. 33 in Marysville is shut down Thursday afternoon due to a crash.

The crash happened at about 11:30 a.m. and involved a semi-truck hauling flammable liquid, another semi-truck and a camper, according to Marysville police.

Fire crews were able to prevent the hazardous material from "a more substantial release into the environment," police said. There were no signs of flammable liquid in any area waterways.

Marysville officials estimate the road will be closed for six hours between U.S. 36 and Route 4. Drivers are asked to find an alternate route.

Click here for the latest traffic conditions across central Ohio

A spokesperson for the Ohio EPA said an on-site coordinator is headed to the area of the crash.

No injuries were reported in the crash.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A man was charged after a child was injured in an accidental shooting on Wednesday in east Columbus.

A 27-year-old man faces a charge of negligent assault, a third-degree misdemeanor, after police were called to a reported shooting in the 1700 block of Lonsdale Road, near East Livingston Avenue, according to Columbus police. Watch previous coverage in the player above.

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A criminal complaint disclosed that the owner of the gun heard the gunshot from the basement and told police the suspect was attempting to bring the gun upstairs to him when it went off. The gun was found on the stair landing, leading into the basement.

The suspect told police he was coming up the stairs when he tripped and the gun accidentally went off in his hand. He also stated he did not know the weapon was loaded and that he put the gun down upon the arrival of police.

NBC4 does not typically name suspects charged with misdemeanor offenses. The child, who is under the age of 12, was taken to a hospital and listed in stable condition.

The man is scheduled to be arraigned on Oct. 30. The shooting remains under investigation.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio High School Athletic Association unveiled a proposal Thursday that would allow high school student-athletes to receive money for their name, image, and likeness.

The OHSAA held an emergency meeting after a judge granted a temporary restraining order allowing student-athletes to temporarily accept NIL deals without losing their amateur status.

The lawsuit against the OHSAA was brought by Huber Heights Wayne football standout Jamier Brown and his mother, Jasmine. Brown is among the top-rated players in the nation for the class of 2027 and is already committed to Ohio State. His attorney said Brown could be receiving significant financial benefit from NIL, but accepting those deals in Ohio is currently against OHSAA rules and would therefore make him ineligible to play. 

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Under the new OHSAA proposal, which member schools are expected to vote on in mid-November, high school student-athletes would be allowed to accept NIL deals, provided they do not use the name, logos, mascots, trademarks, or other property of any OHSAA schools.

Student-athletes would be prohibited from engaging in any personal branding activities during school hours, and while traveling to or from any OHSAA event. Student-athletes would also be prohibited from accepting compensation based on performance, such as amount of points scored.

The bylaws would prohibit student-athletes from accepting deals that are intended to induce a student to attend a specific school. Schools may also not arrange deals on behalf of student-athletes.

When reaching an agreement, student-athletes would have 14 days to notify OHSAA of the deal or they would become ineligible for a period of up to 20% of the season.

The OHSAA said it has been patient in monitoring NIL across the country, and also as it has taken hold in major college athletics. 

“At the Division I level, things like collectives where universities pay athletes directly, we’ve seen that that’s been a pitfall,” Tim Stried, director of communications for OHSAA, previously told NBC4. “Their recruiting based on NIL, that’s something we don’t want to see at the high school level. The transfer portal is a huge part of college athletics now and obviously we don’t want that, any shape of that, at the high school level. So those are some of the things we’ve seen at the college level that has made us really reluctant to put this up in Ohio for high schools. The courts have always ruled in favor of the student athletes. We’ve seen that over and over again. That’s what we’re dealing with right now. So our bylaw is going to shape a lot of that language that we think will have some controls on it.” 

HILLIARD, Ohio (WCMH) -- Amazon Web Services' contested proposal to power Hilliard data centers with a fuel cell system is now expected to move forward without city approval.

"In my opinion, the AWS data centers have been built on a mound of lies, false promises, and half-truths to get their agenda pushed through," Hilliard resident Chris Ighnat said. "They are not 'good neighbors' as they like to say, and what they are bringing is diminished property values, health concerns and fire safety concerns with this new project."

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Residents like Ighnat have been outspoken against AWS and AEP Ohio's plan to power multiple data centers in Hilliard using fuel cell technology. On Monday, AEP Ohio withdrew its application before Hilliard officials could rule on it, arguing that state law overrides local approval for the project. The natural gas-fueled system is expected to proceed on Scioto Darby Road without Hilliard's authorization. See previous coverage of AWS' Hilliard data centers in the video player above.

AEP Ohio cited a law initially intended to support wind energy that gives the Ohio Power Siting Board authority over some projects. The law states "no public agency or political subdivision of this state may require any approval, consent, permit, certificate or other condition for the construction or operation of a major utility facility" authorized by the board.

AEP Ohio said its project qualifies as a major utility facility and therefore is subject to the law. The Ohio Power Siting Board authorized AEP Ohio's fuel cell plan in September. Hilliard officials said they were disappointed but acknowledged the state does have jurisdiction.

“These are the types of issues that should be addressed at the local level,” Dan Ralley, Hilliard's acting city manager, said. “It’s regrettable that state lawmakers have overridden local oversight, particularly since this technology is unfamiliar and new not just to our city but also the entire state.”

A fuel cell system generates electricity through electrochemical reactions. Some fuel cells generate clean energy, using liquid nitrogen and oxygen to output electricity and drinkable water. Hilliard's fuel cell system will input natural gas instead, releasing electricity and large amounts of carbon dioxide.

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Hilliard resident Paul Lambert is generally amiable toward data centers, retiring from work on large-scale data centers across the U.S. and Europe, and voting in favor of the economic incentives that brought AWS to Hilliard when working as a school board member. However, he is worried about the carbon dioxide emissions, which he estimates at 1 million pounds of carbon dioxide, or CO2, per day.

"What do they intend to do with that much CO2? It appears that they intend to release it into the air," Lambert said.

Amy Swank, an advocate for protections against data centers, is also concerned about carbon dioxide outputs. Swank lives in Dublin, but has extended her advocacy to neighboring communities. Further, her children attend school in Hilliard, and she worries about a natural gas pipeline's environmental, contamination, and fire safety implications.

"My primary concern is safety. This is a new technology. It's unapproved technology, at least when it comes to our community," Swank said. "I don't think the city even really knew what questions to ask."

AEP Ohio is required to complete a fire protection review, and the company indicated it will work with the Norwich Township Fire Department on necessary safety training for the fuel cell installation.

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"AEP Ohio appreciates the collaborative relationship we have with the city of Hilliard," AEP Ohio said in a statement. "We remain committed to maintaining strong community partnerships as we deliver innovative solutions for our customers that are safe and comply with all laws and regulations applicable to their operation — in this case, an onsite fuel cell system at a customer’s site."

Swank, Lambert and Ighnat all raised questions about the interpretation of the law, and Ighnat implored city officials to push back against AEP Ohio's decision.

"We all recognize that data centers are sort of a necessary evil, because the AWS outage this week really showed how much as a society, we are relying (on them) for cloud storage," Swank said. "It does become a question of, what is the correct balance? Where do we put cloud storage vs. safety?”

AEP Ohio and AWS plan to begin construction on the fuel cell system in January, to be completed around September 2027. The project is slated to be temporary until AEP Ohio can catch up with demands on the grid.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A court order has been secured to shut down a “flop house” known for alleged drug activity and other crimes in Southwest Columbus.

According to the Columbus City Attorney’s Office, the Property Action Team was granted a court order to shut down and board up a property on Red Leaf Lane in Southwest Columbus. The home has reportedly been used as a “flop house” for drug users, traffickers, and criminals on the run.

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The City’s Attorney’s Office said that Columbus police have made numerous runs to the area over the past two years for criminal and drug activity. CPD surveillance uncovered more than two dozen individuals associated with the property, including several previous convicted drug traffickers.

Other complaints in 2025 resulted in the discovery of drugs, weapons, prostitution, and an alleged assault. Complaints date as far back as 2019, but increased violence and suspicious activity began to increase in 2024.

The Franklin County Municipal Court, Environmental Division declared the property a nuisance and set a preliminary injunction hearing.

DUBLIN, Ohio (WCMH) -- Livewell, a veterinary clinic with animal hospitals and urgent cares nationwide, is moving forward with plans to build a Dublin hospital as it readies to open its first Ohio urgent care in Worthington.

Plans submitted to the city of Dublin by Treanor, a Kansas-founded architecture firm, show that Livewell is hoping to build the hospital on a nearly two-acre vacant site at 3990 W. Dublin Granville Road. The one-story location would span 4,097 square feet and include several exam rooms, a lab, treatment area, a dental space, a surgery room, and a x-ray chamber.

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If approved, Livewell's Dublin hospital would sit on the west side of the property and include 20 parking spaces. The site's east side would be reserved for "a future coffeeshop retailer," Treanor's proposal states, and feature 18 parking spaces. The plan is scheduled to receive a review on Thursday by the city's planning and zoning commission.

• Plans show that Livewell is hoping to build the Dublin hospital on a nearly two-acre vacant site at 3990 W. Dublin Granville Road. (Courtesy Photo/City of Dublin)
• The Dublin site's east side would be reserved for "a future coffeeshop retailer," Treanor's proposal states, and feature 18 parking spaces. (Courtesy Photo/City of Dublin)

Treanor noted in its proposal that this type of building project isn't "specifically permitted" inside the Sawmill Center Neighborhood, where the West Dublin Granville Road property is located. However, the architecture firm is asking the city of Dublin to consider "a waiver in this instance," the proposal states, "given this overall parcel will have two buildings."

Livewell is hoping to receive the green light for a Dublin hospital as it's preparing to open its first Ohio urgent care at 121 W. Wilson Bridge Road in Westerville. The veterinary clinic first announced the Westerville location in July on social media and has continued to tease its launch. While an opening date has yet to be shared, "the wait is almost over," a September post said.

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"We can't wait to welcome you and your fur family to Livewell Animal Urgent Care," the social media post said, directing animal owners to its website for future updates. "Whether it's for a little oopsies or unexpected emergencies, we're here to provide the peace of mind that when you choose us, all is well."

Livewell also operates and is developing hospitals and urgent cares in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Washington.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - Meet Tori! She is available at the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center.

Tori is a sweet senior who is 11 years old. Shelter staff said she's been at the facility for a couple of weeks. Tori is an older dog, but staff said she still has some pep in her step.

Tori is available for adoption at the Franklin County Dog Shelter.

The shelter said Tori would do best in a home on her own or with another senior dog where she can relax and give a lot of cuddles. Her personality is a little more quiet, not a lot of energy, but she is super sweet.

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Tori loves getting all of the pets and cuddles she can get and enjoys going on walks to get her exercise. The shelter said she is well behaved and walks pretty good on leash.

If you are interested in Tori, she is available for adoption or a foster to adopt. You can visit her now for a meet and greet at the shelter, located at 4340 Tamarack Blvd. in Columbus. For the full list of adoptable dogs, visit the shelter's website.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The final full weekend of October has arrived, and central Ohio is brimming with fall festivities and Halloween happenings.

From glowing “Goosebumps” pumpkin displays to concerts and community celebrations, there is something for every age and interest this weekend.

Families can enjoy trick-or-treat events, scavenger hunts and hands-on science activities, while adults can take in live music, seasonal cocktails and the nation’s most elaborate costume party, HighBall Halloween.

Many local attractions are adding spooky twists and autumn-inspired experiences to mark the final weekend before Halloween. Check out the list below for some standout events from Oct. 23 to 26, 2025.

Goosebumps at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, through Oct. 26, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens will display pumpkins decorated as “Goosebumps” book covers and host special “Goosebumps”-themed scavenger hunts. The Watershed bar will offer specialty cocktails, such as “Monster Blood” and “Little Monster Blood.” Tickets range from $17.33 to $28.35 on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and $19.43 to $30.45 on Fridays and Saturdays. Prices include the Columbus culture fee.

CAPA Haunts the Palace

Palace Theatre, 3 W. Broad St., Thursday, Oct. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. 
• An annual free, family-friendly Halloween event put on by CAPA. Children and adults are invited to wear costumes and explore the Palace Theatre, which will be decorated for the season. In addition to trick-or-treating, guests can also grab a craft, take photos at selfie stations, view a Day of the Dead display and more. “Creatures,” courtesy of Ohio School of Falconry and characters from Castle on a Cloud Entertainment, will be on hand. Trick-or-treat bags will be available, but guests are welcome to bring their own bags or buckets. Tickets are not required for this free event.

• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)
• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)
• 2023 CAPA Trick or Treat at The Palace Theater (Photo Courtesy: Dan Mitchell/Mitchell Multimedia)

WestFest 2025, West Campus Science & Sustainability Festival

Ohio State University West Campus Quad, Saturday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• A free, family-friendly event showcasing science and sustainability. WestFest is designed to encourage kids to get interested in STEM fields. Hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes tours, and a food truck will be set in the university's West Campus Quad.

Blue Jackets vs. Washington Capitals, Grateful Dead takeover night

Nationwide Arena, Friday, Oct. 24, 7 p.m.
• The CBJ is hosting a Grateful Dead Night at Nationwide Arena. Hockey fans can celebrate the Grateful Dead with a special ticket package and live music from Terrapin Moon. The band will perform on the main concourse before the game when doors open at 6 p.m. sharp, during both intermissions, and after the game. Each ticket purchased with a special ticket package will include an exclusive CBJ/Grateful Dead Jersey.

'The Shawshank Redemption'

Willis Theatre, 74, West William Street, Delaware, Friday through Sunday, Oct. 24 to 26
• When Andy Dufresne is convicted of murder and sentenced to life in the notorious Shawshank prison, he must find a way to keep himself and his hope alive by using his wits and forging friendships. Based on the novella by Stephen King, The Shawshank Redemption brings the story of resilience made famous by the acclaimed film to the stage. Tickets are $15.

• Friday, 7 p.m.
• Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Sunday, 2 p.m.

Photo Courtesy/Arena Fair Theatre Co. Fright at the Museum

Ohio History Center, Saturday, Oct. 25, 6 to 9 p.m., timed entries at 6, 6:15, 6:30 and 6:45 p.m.
• The Ohio History Connection will celebrate the Halloween season with Fright at the
Museum. Guests will discover the spooky side of Ohio’s history as they learn about
creatures of the night alongside the Ohio Wildlife Center, test their acting chops with
vintage horror movie reels and step back in time with a mid-century Monster Mash at
the 1950s-era Lustron Home inside the museum, plus more. Admission is $18 for adults, $14 for children ages 4 to 12, and free for children ages 3 and under. Member pricing is $13 for adults,
$9 for children. History Connection premium members receive free admission.

• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)
• Fright at the Museum at the Ohio History Center (Photo Courtesy/ Ohio History Connection)

HighBall Halloween

High Street from Goodale Street to Nationwide Boulevard, Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6 to midnight
• HighBall Halloween is the nation’s most elaborate costume party. With free general admission, locals and visitors alike can celebrate the art of costume and the vibrancy of Columbus’s fashion scene. Official HighBall Halloween 2025 host, Virginia West, along with NBC4’s Matt Barnes and Joe Speir will get visitors in the Halloween spirit as exciting live performances enter the spotlight. Tickets for the VIP Party, Weekend Access Passes and the FCCFA Spooky Suites can be purchased at highballcolumbus.org.

Highball Halloween 2022, Photo by Tony Bentivegna Photography Purity Ring

Newport Music Hall, Saturday, Oct. 25, doors open at 7 p.m.
• Trailblazing electronic pop duo Purity Ring, on their “Place Of My Own Tour,” will perform at Newport Music Hall. Purity Ring released their self-titled album on Sept. 26. For this release, they’ve developed an imaginary place — inspired by the record's production and narrative. Their new show is built on this otherworldly landscape, immersing fans in this world alongside them. General admission is $43.85, including fees and taxes. 

Purity Ring (Photo Courtesy/ The Oriel Company) American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Genoa Park, Sunday, Oct. 26, event opens at 10 a.m.
• A noncompetitive walk and community celebration. The event will be held rain or shine. Attendees can expect an inspiring day of celebrating survivors, honoring our loved ones, and free, mission-driven family fun. This year will be the event's 18th anniversary. There are new 5K and 1-mile walk route options and a post-walk party until 2 p.m.

UnderCurrent: Walk, Roll, and Play

High Street from Long to Town Streets, Sunday, Oct. 26, noon to 4 p.m.
• UnderCurrent: Walk, Roll and Play, will transform High Street for a day of car-free activity. This free event features an expanded footprint along High Street from Long to Town Streets. A giant inflatable slide will be located in front of the Ohio Statehouse, along with inflatable pickleball courts, yoga and Pilates classes, a pop-up roller rink, and dance performances. In addition, there is the Roll Lane (a dedicated lane for bikes, scooters, rollerblades), pop-up workout classes, live art demonstrations, local business activations, food trucks and more.

• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com
• Photo by Schlagheck Photography www.schlagheckphoto.com for Robb McCormick Photography www.robbmccormick.com