This edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West covers critical public safety developments and economic news across Kankakee County. We begin with an update from Sheriff Mike Downey regarding a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the fatal shooting at a bar in Momence. The report includes details on the suspect’s apprehension in Indiana and the legal steps required for extradition back to Illinois.

In other local news, Bradley Police are investigating an early morning robbery, and the Manteno Village Board recently reached a decision regarding a proposed wine and whiskey bar that has sparked debate among trustees.

The episode also highlights positive community milestones, including:

• The release of the 2026 Countywide Market Profile by the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County, detailing regional growth and employment advantages.
• A special recognition for the Kankakee Fire Department C-shift and a KANCOMM telecommunicator for their heroic actions during a residential fire.
• The return of a popular cultural event at the Kankakee Public Library in celebration of Black History Month.
• National health news regarding hypertension trends and a full rundown of local sports, including updates on the Bulls, Blackhawks, and the upcoming Super Bowl 60.

Listen to the full episode for in-depth reporting on these stories and more from across the region.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this special edition of the WVLI News Update, Jake LaMore provides an in-depth report on the homicide of 30-year-old Courtney M. Drysdale.

Following a press conference held by the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office, we hear directly from Sheriff Mike Downey regarding the investigation into the fatal shooting at "The Line," a bar on Illinois Route 114 near the Indiana state line.

This episode features the full briefing from the Sheriff, including:

• Details on the suspect, described as a Black male with eyeglasses and facial hair.
• The description of the vehicle of interest: a white four-door BMW sedan with a sunroof and dark rims, last seen traveling east toward Indiana.
• Information on the $5,000 cash reward being offered by Kankakee County CrimeStoppers.
• 
  
• The collaborative efforts of the Momence Police Department, Illinois State Police, and local investigators.

If you have any information regarding this case:

• Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office: 815-802-7150
• 
  
• CrimeStoppers (Anonymous): 815-93-CRIME (815-932-7463)
• 
  

Stay informed with the latest local news by subscribing to the WVLI News Update on your favorite podcast platform or at wvli927.com.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West covers a series of critical developments impacting Kankakee County and the surrounding areas. The program begins with a somber report from the Kankakee County Sheriff's Police regarding a homicide investigation in rural Momence following the discovery of a 30-year-old woman at a local establishment.

The update also dives into recent local government decisions, including a newly approved four-year contract for Bourbonnais patrol officers that introduces specific wage increases and changes to lateral hiring practices. Listeners will also hear about a significant national recognition for the Kankakee River Valley Regatta and an unexpected multi-year commitment from the American Powerboat Association that secures the area's status as a racing destination through 2029.

The episode further details:

• A physical altercation involving multiple inmates at the Will County Adult Detention Facility.
• Public testimony in Bourbonnais regarding proposed ordinances on federal enforcement activities and village property.
• The specific hurdles facing the construction of the new Quick Trip gas station near I-57.
• A weekend shooting incident in Kankakee that led to an arrest and the recovery of a stolen firearm.
• Regional traffic incidents and a comprehensive look at the upcoming sports schedule, including a Super Bowl 60 preview and Spring Training countdowns.

For the full details on these stories, including specific statements from local officials and law enforcement, listen to the complete episode.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West provides a comprehensive look at the developing stories impacting the region. From significant legal developments to public safety alerts and local community news, this episode covers the essential information residents need to stay informed.

Regional Crime and Public Safety

The update begins with details on a recent law enforcement response to an alleged burglary involving a train in Wilmington Township. While one individual is in custody, police are still searching for others involved in the incident. Additionally, listeners will hear the latest on a high-stakes traffic stop in Braceville that resulted in charges of aggravated battery to an officer.

Local Investigation Updates

Rob West shares a somber update regarding the Amazon truck crash near Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School. The episode also covers a major breakthrough in a death investigation from last June, as Wilmington police confirm an arrest related to the passing of a 14-year-old boy. Further details on a drug-related search warrant in Kankakee are also provided.

Legislative Shifts and Public Safety Initiatives

Important changes may be coming to the Indiana justice system. Lawmakers are currently debating a constitutional amendment that could fundamentally alter how judges handle bail for certain defendants.

On the safety front, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is spearheading a new initiative to address the rising frequency of accidents involving electric transportation. This update explores the motivations behind the campaign and what it means for road safety laws.

Health, Science, and Sports

• Health: Discover why your daily household chores might be more beneficial than you think, according to experts from the Cleveland Clinic.
• Astronomy: Professor Madeline Shepley highlights what to look for in the night sky this week, including specific planetary alignments and seasonal constellations.
• Sports: Get the latest scores for the Bulls and Illini, a preview of the Blackhawks matchup, and an outlook on Super Bowl 60.

To get the full details on these stories and more, listen to the complete episode of the WVLI News Update.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

Join Rob West for the Friday edition of the WVLI News Update, delivering the most pertinent stories affecting Kankakee County and the surrounding regions.

Today’s update begins with a significant legal development regarding a former Clifton Central High School teacher following a sentencing hearing in Ford County. The report details the outcome of a case initiated by a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The update also covers a series of incidents on local roadways. Reports include a medical emergency involving a delivery driver near Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School and a weather-related rollover accident in Jasper County that required emergency extraction. Additionally, Jake LaMore brings details on an unusual scene in Paxton where an SUV struck a residential porch, an event neighbors claim is not a first for that location.

In criminal justice news, authorities in Rensselaer have announced multiple arrests in connection with an October gun shop burglary that spans across state lines and involves several other local incidents.

Finally, the episode looks ahead to the weekend with Angelina Gear of Visit Kankakee County, who shares details on interactive mystery theater and upcoming Valentine's Day events. Stay tuned for a full sports summary covering the Fighting Illini’s recent winning streak, plus updates on the Bulls and Blackhawks.

Listen to the full episode for the complete details on these stories and the latest local developments.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West delivers a comprehensive look at the headlines impacting the Kankakee, Will County, and Northwest Indiana regions.

Today’s update begins with the latest information from the Will County Coroner regarding a fatal collision in unincorporated Peotone, including details on the identification of the individual involved and the subsequent accident reconstruction efforts. In regional legislative news, we cover a major vote by the Indiana Senate that could impact the future of the Chicago Bears and their search for a new stadium.

The report also features:

• A recap of a guilty verdict in a Kankakee County road rage case involving a firearm.
• The appointment of a new Superintendent for Grant Park School District following an upcoming retirement.
• Details on a felony theft arrest in Rensselaer involving lottery tickets.
• Updates on a high-speed chase and arrest on I-55 in Grundy County.
• Information on a Secret Food Pantry pop-up event in the Village of Bourbonnais.
• Coverage of a controversial bill passed by the Indiana Senate regarding school facilities.

Stay tuned for a look at the local arts scene with the Kankakee Valley Theatre Association, and a full wrap-up of regional sports scores involving the Bulls, Blackhawks, and local collegiate teams.

Listen to the full episode for complete details on these stories and more.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West and the news team provide essential updates on local public safety, legislative shifts, and regional health news. The program begins with details on a fatal traffic incident involving a tractor-trailer near Peotone that resulted in significant road closures and an ongoing investigation by the Will County Sheriff’s Police.

The update also covers significant legal actions taken by the Indiana Attorney General’s office regarding a Rensselaer physician, and a federal sentencing involving a Park Forest man. Listeners will also hear a critical "Crimestoppers Tip of the Week" regarding a sophisticated phone scam targeting Kankakee County residents, including specific details on how to identify these fraudulent calls.

Additionally, the episode explores developing legislative stories, including a controversial bill that could repeal protections for diabetic students in Indiana schools and a new proposal regarding the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms. Finally, stay tuned for the latest population trends in Illinois and a full breakdown of the current sports landscape for the Blackhawks, Bulls, and Illini.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, Rob West covers a series of significant events impacting Kankakee and Will Counties. The update begins with details regarding a weekend arrest at Balmoral Park in Crete, where two individuals from Bourbonnais were apprehended after a witness reported suspicious activity.

We also examine a serious warning from the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Police regarding a phone scam targeting residents by impersonating law enforcement officers. Chief Deputy Trent Bukowski explains the tactics these scammers use and why the Illinois Safety Act makes their claims impossible.

The update further details a violent home invasion in unincorporated Bourbonnais and introduces the newly appointed Village Clerk of Bradley. Additionally, we look at local infrastructure investments, including a six-figure property acquisition intended to enhance the village's developing entertainment district.

Listen to the full episode for the complete report on these stories, winter safety tips from the State Fire Marshal, and a look at the latest Illinois economic data and regional sports scores.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

This edition of the WVLI News Update with Rob West covers a tragic weekend incident in Iroquois County, where local authorities are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash near Gilman. We also provide details on a weekend apartment fire on North Chicago Avenue in Kankakee that resulted in the displacement of several residents.

In education news, Kankakee Trinity Academy has officially announced a significant rebranding effort, including a new name approved by the Board of Directors. Beyond these headlines, this episode covers nearly a million dollars in state grants awarded to the City of Kankakee for the West Riverwalk and upcoming infrastructure improvements along Schuyler Avenue.

Additional coverage includes a "border war" update regarding a potential new Chicago Bears stadium, critical health warnings for shoveling in extreme cold, and a look at what to watch for in the night sky this week. We conclude with a full sports wrap-up, including the finalized Super Bowl matchup and local collegiate scores.

Listen to the full update for the complete details on these stories and more.

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com

In this edition of the WVLI News Update, host Rob West provides critical updates on public health and safety concerns affecting the Kankakee County area. The report begins with the confirmation of a second case of Legionnaire’s disease at the Shapiro Developmental Center, including what state officials are saying about the situation.

As the region remains under an extreme cold warning, the episode features expert advice from local medical and veterinary professionals. Learn the specific symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite to watch for in humans, as well as essential precautions for protecting outdoor and exotic pets during record-low temperatures.

Other highlights in this update include:

• A comprehensive list of warming centers available throughout Kankakee, Bourbonnais, Bradley, and Momence.
• The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office report on using drone technology to monitor water levels and potential ice jams on the Kankakee River.
• An update on local government efficiency and the results of the Kankakee County bulk buying program.
• Indoor weekend event highlights to help residents stay active while avoiding the elements.
• A full roundup of regional sports, including updates on the Bulls, Blackhawks, and Fighting Illini.

For the full details on these stories and expert safety recommendations, listen to the complete episode.

Cover photo for this episode by, Stephen Case. 

Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!

Hear the unforgettable true stories of Kankakee County. Search for "This One Time in Kankakee" wherever you get your podcasts or click here: https://thisonetimeinkankakee.buzzsprout.com