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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

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Ohio House of Representatives took on property taxes Wednesday afternoon, passing two bills aimed at relieving tax burdens and attempting to head off a looming ballot initiative that seeks to eliminate property taxes altogether.

House Bills 186 and 335 earned tepid support from some House Democrats, while others railed against the bills for not going far enough. 

House Bill 186, sponsored by Reps. David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Jim Hoops (R-Napoleon), creates an Inflation Cap Credit, limiting increases in property taxes above the rate of inflation. The sponsors claim this would save Ohio property owners $1.7 billion over the next three years. See an earlier report on Ohio's Property Tax Reform Work Group in the video player above.

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“Members, $1.7 billion — that is the amount of money over the next three years if we do not pass House Bill 186, that is the amount of taxpayer dollars that will be paid by our property owners above inflation due to the 20-mill floor, due to increased property values and a policy at the school level that we at the legislature are ultimately responsible for,” Thomas said. “And if we are responsible for setting the law of the land for Ohio, $1.7 billion is the amount we can tell our taxpayers, ‘You are not paying.’” 

House Bill 335, also sponsored by Thomas, caps the rate of inside millage levies, which can be imposed by local governments without voter approval. The inside millage cap would also keep property taxes tied to the rate of inflation. 

“What’s happened over the years is inside millage taxation has massively increased and, as we’ve talked about, it’s unvoted,” said Rep. Bill Roemer (R-Richfield). “We can say that every property taxpayer in the state of Ohio will benefit from the passage of House Bill 335.” 

Some Democrats, however, argued that both measures would benefit property taxpayers who don’t actually live in Ohio. 

“Taxpayers in my district of Lucas County would see absolutely zero property tax relief under House Bill 186,” said Rep. Elgin Rogers, Jr. (D-Toledo). “About half of Ohioans who do not live in a 20-mill floor district will see no change in their property taxes. … For the other half of Ohioans, who actually live in a district at the twenty mill floor, the everyday Ohioan will possibly see just $13 a month in relief. Something’s better than nothing, right? But those folks who are out-of-state investors and major property owners will see thousands, thousands of dollars of property tax relief monthly.” 

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Democrat Daniel Troy of Willowick voted in favor of both bills but warned they would not be enough to blunt the momentum behind a ballot initiative to abolish property taxes. 

“If we think that this is somehow property tax relief for everyday Ohioans or heading off the constitutional amendment to abolish property taxes, we’re kidding ourselves,” Troy said. “I think this is like pouring a cup of water on a forest fire. We’ve got a heck of a lot more to do.” 

Having been passed by the House, both measures will now go to the Senate for consideration. 

BELLEFONTAINE, Ohio (WCMH) — A Columbus woman is dead after a three-vehicle crash occurred in Logan County Wednesday afternoon.

At approximately 4:13 p.m., The Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to a crash on U.S. Route 33 East in Jefferson Township, just east of Bellefontaine. The crash involved two commercial vehicles and a passenger car, a 2018 Kia Rio, which was disabled in the left lane of the highway.

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A 2020 Mack dump truck traveling eastbound failed to stop for the disabled vehicle and struck the Kia from behind. The Kia was vaulted into the right lane and collided with a 2021 International tractor-trailer.

The Mack truck overturned, spilling gravel along the roadway, and traveled off the right side of the road. The International truck also traveled off the right side of the road and overturned, while the Kia came to rest in the same area.

The driver of the Kia, 26-year-old Ismahan Abdikadir Nagati, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the dump truck was air-lifted to a Columbus hospital with serious injuries, while the driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to a Marysville hospital with minor injuries.

All eastbound lanes on U.S. 33 were closed while the crash scene was being investigated and cleared. The OSHP was assisted by the Logan County Sheriff's Office, the Ohio Department of Transportation, Perry Township Fire & EMS, Bellefontaine Fire & EMS, and Huntsville Fire & EMS.

PLAIN CITY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Jonathan Alder Local Schools are hoping voters will approve a $70.6 million bond issue to create a new 6-12 grade campus.

The district said the expansions are necessary to address rising enrollment. If approved, the 5.12-mills bond issue would fund a new junior high, expand existing buildings and help balance facility capacity. The district would then reconfigure grade levels, creating a 6-12 campus and more room for elementary students.

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"Waiting doesn't stop the growth. It doesn't change our need," school board President Sonia Walker said. "It only equates to higher taxpayer investment in the future, and we want to avoid that."

The district expects to add 469 new students to its 2,300 student body over the next 10 years, more than a 20% increase. The district hopes the new construction will bring each building to 80% capacity, creating a more balanced learning environment across the district.

In May, Jonathan Alder tried to pass the same 5.12-mills bond issue, and almost succeeded. The May ballot issue failed 50.5%-49.5%, and the district is optimistic that things may go better in November. See previous coverage of May's bond issue in the video player above.

Jonathan Alder said its high school and Plain City Elementary are both already at capacity, and Walker said all other buildings are nearing capacity. With the $70,625,000 the bond issue would generate, the district would make Monroe and Plain City elementaries kindergarten through third-grade buildings, freeing up space without fourth and fifth grades.

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Fourth and fifth graders would then move to Canaan Middle School, which would convert to an upper elementary building with a four-classroom addition. The middle school students would learn in the district's new junior high, serving grades six through eight.

District plans would attach the new junior high to Jonathan Alder High School. The high school would also get an eight-classroom addition. The existing junior high building would be repurposed for district office space and possible preschool classrooms.

The district said delaying construction would make it more expensive, as construction costs are expected to increase by $2 million each year. Jonathan Alder considered short-term options like redistricting or bringing in temporary classrooms, but found they had "significant downsides."

If the bond issue fails, the district said families may be reassigned to different schools, and elementary students within the same families and neighborhoods may be assigned to different buildings. Redistricting and overflow fixes would also increase transportation costs and increase time spent on bus routes.

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The district said it will also have to spend money on short-term fixes, adding costs that would not be necessary if the issue were to pass. The district said a "much-requested" variety of electives, like agricultural education, will not be feasible without expanded facilities.

If approved, the bond issue would cost taxpayers $179 per $100,000 of a taxpayers' county appraised property value. However, residents on land that qualifies for current agricultural use valuation (CAUV) pay differently, and will owe $5.22 per acre.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Talk show host Stephen Colbert recently poked fun at an Ohio lawmaker for his proposed legal personhood and marriage ban for artificial intelligence systems. 

During a segment about AI on The Late Show this week, Colbert brought up House Bill 469, sponsored by Rep. Thaddeus Claggett (R-Licking County). The legislation would prohibit AI systems from being recognized as people and ban the technology from marrying a human or another AI system. 

“An Ohio lawmaker’s wife left him for a chatbot,” Colbert joked after bringing up the bill. 

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“This piece of legislation comes from Ohio representative Thaddeus Claggett,” Colbert continued. “No wonder he’s against technology, his name is 200 years old. You know his campaign slogan: Thaddeus Claggett, ‘Gol’ Darn Prairie Dog Stole My Hat Again!’” 

Colbert then pulled up a photo of Claggett before saying “that doesn’t look right, can we run that through AI?” The same portrait was displayed again, this time with Claggett edited to wear a hat, sport a beard and have a piece of straw in his mouth.

Claggett addressed the segment in a Facebook post on Wednesday, writing that he would like to use it as an opportunity to talk more about his bill. He said while the legislation has been "sensationalized" as “anti-AI marriage,” it would establish a framework of liability for AI. 

“I wouldn’t normally share something from a liberal like Colbert, but I thought this was funny – probably the first time he’s been funny all year, which would explain why CBS canceled his show,” Claggett wrote. 

The lawmaker said the most important thing the bill would do is ensure developers and users of AI cannot absolve themselves of responsibility if the technology causes harm. 

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“We also want to make sure that these things can never be given control over decisions that should be made by a competent human,” Claggett said in the post. “This bill is intended as a preemptive measure.”

Claggett previously told NBC4 that the part of the bill addressing marriage would help prevent AI from taking on roles commonly held by spouses, such as holding power of attorney or making financial or medical decisions on another’s behalf.

“People need to understand, we’re not talking about marching down the aisle to some tune and having a ceremony with the robot that’ll be on our streets here in a year or two,” he said. “That could happen, but that’s not really what we’re saying.” 

Under the legislation, AI could also not own or control real estate, intellectual property or financial accounts. It bans the technology from serving in management, director or officer roles in companies as well.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Democrat Sherrod Brown has brought in $8 million since launching his comeback campaign, while Sen. Jon Husted set a fundraising record for a Republican in an Ohio U.S. Senate race.

Brown's $8 million total "was powered by an army of grassroots donors," his campaign said in an Oct. 14 news release, with 97% of individual donations under $100 and an average grassroots contribution of $24.36. The former senator raised $7 million directly into his campaign and an additional $1 million into affiliated joint fundraising committees.

"Ohioans from every corner of the state are rallying behind Sherrod's campaign," said Patrick Eisenhauer, Friends of Sherrod Brown campaign manager, in the release. "Twenty-five thousand hardworking Ohioans, from across all 88 counties, have already chipped in because they know Sherrod always puts Ohio families first."

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Husted's third-quarter fundraising totaled $3.7 million, "the highest amount ever raised by a Republican candidate at this stage of a U.S. Senate race in Ohio," his campaign said in an Oct. 14 news release. The newly minted senator has grown his fundraising totals by roughly $1 million each quarter, "demonstrating enthusiasm fueled by Ohioans who believe in his mission," his campaign said.

"We continue to see record enthusiasm for Senator Husted's campaign," said Tyson Shepard, the Husted campaign's communications director, in the release. "Our fundraising success reflects strong support from every corner of the state and shows that Jon is building the operation needed to win decisively in 2026."

Brown announced his comeback bid in August, less than a year after narrowly losing reelection in 2024 to Sen. Bernie Moreno. The Democrat's campaign previously said it raised $3.6 million in the first 24 hours after his announcement. Husted began his campaign in April and was sitting on more than $2.6 million in fundraising while waiting for Brown to enter the race.

Polling released Monday found Brown and Husted in a near deadlock. Data from a Bowling Green State University Democracy and Public Policy Research Network poll of 800 registered Ohio voters shows Brown barely leads the race over Husted, at 49%-48%. This marks a change from August, when Emerson College Polling had Husted with a six-point lead.

Brown boasts endorsements from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters and the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters, alongside the Ohio Federation of Teachers and the Ohio Association of Public School Employees.

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Husted's endorsements include Republican gubernatorial favorite Vivek Ramaswamy, President Donald Trump, the Northwest Ohio Building & Construction Trades Council, and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18 and 66 chapters.

Several lesser-known candidates are also vying for the Democratic nomination against Brown. However, those candidates haven't released their fundraising totals. They include entrepreneur Fred Ode, software designer and Special Olympics volunteer Ron Kincaid, U.S. Air Force veteran Lynnea Lau, and small business owner and game developer Chris Volpe.

Greg Levy, a community organizer and veteran, announced on Wednesday that he is running for Senate seat under the Party for Socialism and Liberation.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Beechcroft High School's football season is officially over, cut short due to safety concerns.

The Beechcroft Cougars were supposed to take the field Friday for their final regular season game – and Senior Night -- but that matchup against Northland won't happen.

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"It really felt like this was going to be the one we were going to win, so having this game stripped from us really hurt," Beechcroft High School football senior Sherwin Armistead said.

For many players, this was the final chapter of their season, and for seniors, their high school careers. Instead, they're watching it end from the sidelines. 

"Let us play," Beechcroft High School football senior Harlem Walker said. "That's all we want to do. That's all we've been wanting to do. Our whole year has been riding up to this moment, and it's a core memory for us that we just want to experience."

Senior football players said they didn't expect their season to end this way.

"Especially going up against our team rival, this game meant a lot to us," Armistead said. 

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The decision comes just days after two juveniles were shot Saturday night near the high school. According to Columbus police, multiple people were seen exiting a black Honda SUV and fired shots at multiple individuals. 

"As a team captain, that hurts a lot because those two players were our key players right there and it's sad to hear that they're the ones that got hit with the bullet," Beechcroft High School football senior Jaymir Radford said.

Police and the Columbus City Schools District have yet to confirm the victim's identities.

"They want to play for those injured boys," parent Janice Cubbage said. "So, I don't agree with the game being canceled. I don't agree with how it's being handled."

The district released a statement regarding the season's cancellation:

"Due to an ongoing concern directly involving the safety of Beechcroft High School football student-athletes, the Beechcroft team’s season will conclude with the last game of play being the week 9 HOME game on October 17, 2025. This means the game between Beechcroft HS v. Northland HS scheduled for October 24, 2025 will not occur, resulting in a forfeit loss for Beechcroft. The safety of Columbus City School’s students is always our first priority, and the Superintendent approved the request of Beechcroft’s Principal and the District’s leadership team."

"Just let us play," Radford said. "It don't have to be at our field. It don't have to be at Northland's field. We could go to like the old Columbus Crew stadium, that has maximum security."

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According to players, they feel robbed and were looking forward to continuing their winning streak. 

"We were just really in our groove, and we can't do anything about it," Walker said. "It's like you have it right there in your hands and it's just taken from you."

Beechcroft's principal held a meeting on Wednesday night with players and parents, according to those NBC4 spoke with. They said the principal stood firm on his decision. 

"In the meeting, he said that the boys were targeted, that the shooter asked, ‘Did you play football? Yes or no?’ And that they shot," Cubbage said.

According to the district, the superintendent signed off on the principal's request to end the season early.

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"I want the future for all children," Cubbage said. "I'm a mom of two. I want everybody to be safe going forward. So, I told him, 'What is it in the budget for CPD to be here at these games? What is the budget?' I was told is outside of his pay grade, so I don't know if he has reached out to them."

According to the seniors, they were told by the principal that they'd be honored on a different night. In the meantime, Friday's cancelled game will go down as a forfeit loss for Beechcroft.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Felony Assault Unit at 614-645-4323 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 to leave an anonymous tip.

BEXLEY, Ohio (WCMH) - Otterbein University and Capital University continue their historic rivalry on the gridiron Saturday. 

The two schools are connected by more than the city of Columbus. Alum Creek runs from Westerville in the north down through Bexley. 

"The start of the rivalry is lost to the mists of time. We assume that it goes back, though, to the late 1800s, when there would be canoe races down Alum Creek. It might have also been a religious thing. We were United Brethren. They were Lutheran. And so, you know, we can't let that other church beat us," explained Otterbein Archivist Stephen Grinch. "As our sports began to develop in the late 19th, early 20th century, we found ourselves developing a very healthy rivalry with that school down in Bexley," Grinch said.

The rivalry has gone through ebbs and flows with different generations, said Grinch. "The rivalry has taken many different shapes over the years. Sometimes it's as simple as just flying a flag that says 'Screw Cap'. Am I allowed to say that on television?" Grinch joked.

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The Otterbein/Capital rivalry pre-dates Ohio State's rivalry with Michigan. The first game played between Otterbein and Capital was a 60-0 win by Otterbein in 1894, though it isn't counted on the official record because football wasn't yet an official varsity sport at Capital. Ohio State didn't play Michigan for the first time until three years later in 1897.

"It's the small school experience. It's one thing to be a part of a big rivalry like the OSU Michigan rivalry. That's a wonderful thing. But it's also kind of impersonal. Whereas here at a smaller school, you bring people together, closer together," Grinch said. "Even though we are rival schools, there's still that bond and camaraderie. It's a lot smaller. It's a lot friendlier. And, I think it's a lot more fun, quite frankly," said Grinch, who has worked at Otterbein for 27 years after he called the school home as a student.

The rivalry has seen plenty of mischief over the years.

"Back in the early 70s, the band director Gary Tirey would have all of the school flags flown by the band at pregame and Capital's would, of course, always be upside down. We once managed to take down their goalpost, I think in the mid 60s. They were caught unfortunately, and they all had to spend a night in jail before our, Dean of Students went down to bail them out," Grinch said.

"They took the goalpost they tore down, and they cut it into rounds, and they painted them. And they sold them to the student body at Otterbein. And that's how they raised the money to pay back the Dean of Students," Grinch explained with a smile.

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The President of the university's home was on Otterbein's campus and featured a sunken garden that, to the untrained eye, was hard to spot, especially in the dark.

"They were doing some mischief on the tower's front lawn, and a bunch of our guys saw them and started chasing them. Well, they'd made a beeline for the president's front lawn. President J. Gordon Howard said that he looked out his front window to see what the commotion was, and one by one, he watched as these Capital students run full speed and then, fall. Right into the sunken garden," Grinch said.

The rivalry takes on another chapter Saturday at 1:30 p.m. as Otterbein's football and men's soccer teams travel to Capital while volleyball and women's soccer host Capital.

Capital University Athletic Director Darrell Bailey is working to restore the old rivalry.

"It's been exciting. It's one of those things that we're trying to really reinvigorate. It's the sense of community because we want to evolve it into more than just the game. So currently it's the play, and it's each sport has their own version of this," Bailey said. "So, the next step of that is to add on academics. Then the community is involved, academics is involved as well as sport, because that's the embodiment of what Division three is all about," he said.

The schools battle in each sport for 'The Oar', an homage to the students of the late 1800's who would race canoes down Alum Creek.

"Why change something that's happened well before us? Why not embody it and make it something that both teams can, resemble and understand," Bailey said.

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Otterbein holds the Oar, at least until Saturday. But Bailey said he has other expectations for Saturday's game.

"A victory, I expect the young men on the football team to come out with a vengeance, to be ready to play and put it on. To let them know that this is the year of the Capital," Bailey said with a smile.

Otterbein's football team enters the matchup with an 0-6 record while Capital is 2-4. Otterbein's only win in 2024 came in the rivalry game against Capital.

Grinch, who will surely remind his Capital friends of Otterbein's previous win, wanted to make sure everyone collects history while it happens.

"Write down your stories, label your photographs, and don't make scrapbooks," Grinch said.