Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May 17, 2025.
We start with breaking news from just outside the city. We’re keeping the family of 41-year-old Larry Littlejohn in our thoughts after he tragically lost his life Thursday morning in a crash on I-90 near the Hawley Street overpass. Larry, a Columbus native and truck driver, was pronounced dead at the scene, and first responders from Westfield and Chautauqua County worked for hours in response. It’s a tough reminder for all of us to drive with care, especially as road construction ramps up this season.
Closer to home, storms rocked Central Ohio overnight, bringing heavy rain and gusty winds that left some minor street flooding on the East Side and a few downed limbs near Goodale Park. The skies are clearing, and we’re heading for a high near 70 today. The rest of the weekend looks dry and warmer, with plenty of sunshine ahead for Sunday’s outdoor plans.
Turning to City Hall, leaders this week redoubled efforts to address the summer surge in homicides. City officials and police held a public forum, discussing new violence prevention grants and community policing along Parsons Avenue and the Linden corridor. There’s a push for more neighborhood watch groups as we head into the summer months.
On the statewide stage, a political shake-up as Dave Yost suspends his run for governor. Yost cited the strong support for rival Vivek Ramaswamy, who recently secured the Republican endorsement, reshaping the landscape for the next election. Meanwhile, there’s talk that Ohio State football legend Jim Tressel could enter the race, which would definitely heat things up.
On crime, Columbus police are investigating a homicide on the 3000 block of Esquire Drive and a robbery in the 1000 block of Parsons Avenue. An aggravated robbery was also reported on Walford Street on the Northwest Side. Police urge residents to keep doors locked and report suspicious activity, particularly after dark. Meanwhile, Crime Stoppers is still seeking tips about a Grove City firearms burglary and is offering rewards for information.
In real estate and jobs, the Columbus job market remains strong. Kroger just announced plans to hire up to 15,000 new associates nationwide, and several positions will be in our region. On the housing front, local realtors say median home prices now average around 340,000, with brisk activity near Grandview Heights and new developments along West Broad.
On the lighter side, cultural events are blooming. The Race for the Cure returns today at North Bank Park, bringing thousands together in support of breast cancer awareness. Also, the NAMI Mid-Ohio Walk is happening at Tanger Outlets in Sunbury. Tonight, the CCAD Fashion Show will dazzle with bold student designs.
Sports fans, Ohio State is already looking ahead to fall with the Buckeyes set to open their football season against Texas. Local high school teams wrapped up the spring seasons, with several city schools advancing to regional finals.
And we have to mention a feel-good story: the Columbus police helped a goose family cross I-70 not once, but twice this week, pausing traffic and earning smiles all around. Small moments like these remind us of our community spirit.
This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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This episode includes AI-generated content.