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UPDATE: MVA Person Injury, State Route 233 T/Westmoreland According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Rome man suffered serious injuries following a motor vehicle accident on State Route 233 in the Town of Westmoreland. Deputies were called to the accident shortly before 11:00 AM on April 22nd. The investigation determined that Jazmin Ayala (45) of Rome was operating her 2017 Chevrolet Cruz in a southerly direction on St. Rt. 233 in the Town of Westmoreland. As Jazmin was attempting to make a left turn into the driveway of a local business, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Christopher Ceffalia (65) of Rome, attempted to pass Jazmin on the left as she was turning left. Christopher struck Jaszmin's driver's side door area with the front of his motorcycle. Christopher was subsequently ejected from the motorcycle and sustained serious injuries Christopher was airlifted to SUNY Upstate with a severe leg injury and head/abdomen injuries. He is currently listed in critical but stable condition. Christopher was wearing his helmet at the time of the crash. Jazmin was taken by ambulance to a local hospital as a precaution. A passenger in Jazmin's vehicle, Shashena Bear (44) of Taberg, was not injured in the crash. The incident is still under investigation at this time. The Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division and Forensic Identification Unit responded to assist with the incident. The Sheriff's Office was also assisted by the Westmoreland Fire Department, Central Oneida County Ambulance, Mercy Flight, NYS DOT, Upstate Auto, and Central Body.

Tucked deep within the Adirondack Mountains, Old Forge has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventure, family attractions, and small-town charm. Whether visiting for a weekend or planning a longer Adirondack getaway, Old Forge offers experiences that appeal to all ages and seasons. Here are three of the best places to visit when exploring Old Forge, New York. 1. Enchanted Forest Water Safari Known as “America’s Largest Water Theme Park,” Enchanted Forest Water Safari is the centerpiece of summer tourism in Old Forge. The park features dozens of water rides, family attractions, and classic amusement park experiences. From high-energy water slides to lazy rivers and children’s play areas, the park attracts families from across New York State and beyond. Its long-standing presence has helped shape Old Forge as a premier family vacation destination in the Adirondacks. Best time to visit: Late June through August. Ideal for: Families, groups, and first-time visitors 2. McCauley Mountain Ski Area & Scenic Chairlift For year-round views of the Adirondacks, McCauley Mountain offers one of the most accessible outdoor experiences in the region. In winter, the mountain is a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. In warmer months, the scenic chairlift provides panoramic views of lakes, forests, and mountain ridgelines. During peak fall foliage season, McCauley Mountain becomes one of the most photographed locations in the Central Adirondacks. Best time to visit: December–March (winter sports), September–October (fall foliage) Ideal for: Outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, couples 3. Fulton Chain of Lakes & Old Forge Waterfront The Fulton Chain of Lakes defines Old Forge’s landscape and lifestyle. This interconnected system of lakes stretches from Old Forge to Inlet and provides endless opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The Old Forge waterfront area features public docks, boat rentals, walking paths, and easy access to shops and restaurants in the village. In the summer, the lakes are alive with activity, while quieter seasons offer peaceful paddling and wildlife viewing. Best time to visit: May through September Ideal for: Boaters, anglers, paddlers, and relaxation seekers Why Old Forge Continues to Stand Out Old Forge blends Adirondack wilderness with a welcoming village atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Its mix of outdoor recreation, family attractions, and natural beauty makes it one of the most versatile destinations in Upstate New York. Whether riding the slides at Water Safari, taking in mountain views from a chairlift, or cruising the Fulton Chain, Old Forge offers an experience that captures the spirit of the Adirondacks in every season.

When buying a car, reliability isn’t just a convenience—it’s a financial and safety issue. Recent industry data shows that some models repeatedly land at the bottom of reliability rankings and generate higher complaint rates, leaving owners frustrated and out of pocket. Data-Driven Trouble Spots The nonprofit research organization Consumer Reports recently published its 2026 reliability survey, based on owner responses from roughly 380,000 vehicles. This annual analysis predicts which models will cause the most headaches, from minor nuisances to expensive breakdowns once warranties expire. (Consumer Reports) According to those findings, the least reliable cars and SUVs of 2026 include a mix of electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, and conventional models: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Honda Prologue Kia EV6 Kia EV9 Mazda CX-90 Genesis GV60 Chevrolet Blazer EV Rivian R1T GMC Acadia These models ranked lowest in reliability scores—meaning owners reported more frequent and costly problems than average. (Consumer Reports) EVs and Newer Tech Show Growing Pains Consumer Reports’ broader analysis shows that many EVs and plug-in hybrids tend to have more reported issues than traditional gas-powered cars, especially in areas like battery performance, charging systems, and in-vehicle electronics. While electrified technology continues to improve, reliability ratings for many early and newly introduced EVs lag behind their combustion counterparts. (Consumer Reports) Brand Reliability Trends Brand-level data also reflects reliability challenges. While some brands like Toyota and Lexus continue to earn strong reliability scores, others have multiple models with below-average predicted reliability. In Consumer Reports’ overall brand report card, models such as the Rivian R1T and certain plug-in hybrids contributed to lower scores for their respective brands. (Consumer Reports) Why This Matters to Buyers Experts warn that reliability should be a major consideration before purchasing—not an afterthought. Frequent trips to the repair shop can quickly outweigh perceived advantages of style, technology, or performance, especially as new car prices climb. The latest CR reliability rankings are intended to give buyers a clearer picture of long-term ownership risks. (Consumer Reports) Federal Complaints Highlight Known Problem Areas Beyond survey rankings, vehicle complaint data collected in public databases (including those compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) often highlights older model years and specific components with high issue rates. For example, widely documented complaints about certain dual-clutch transmissions and CVTs show how legacy reliability problems can persist in used-car markets. (Reddit) Buyer Takeaway No vehicle is truly “perfect,” but data suggests that steering clear of models with consistently low reliability scores can save owners significant stress and costs down the road. Tools such as Consumer Reports’ reliability database and federal complaint records give consumers the information they need to make smarter automotive decisions. Sources Cited Consumer Reports’ 10 Least Reliable Cars of 2026 list — detailed reliability scores and issues data. (Consumer Reports) Methodology and annual reliability survey details from Consumer Reports’ auto reliability releases. (Consumer Reports) Broader analysis showing how electrified vehicles currently compare with traditional cars in reliability metrics. (Consumer Reports) Discussion of complaint levels for used cars from NHTSA complaint database community analysis. (Reddit)

This morning, President Donald J. Trump joined CNBC’s Squawk Box for an exclusive interview, delivering candid, wide-ranging remarks on some of the most pressing issues facing the country. Click here to watch the full interview Here’s what you missed: President Trump highlighted America’s powerful negotiating position with Iran: “What I think is that we’re going to end up with a great deal. I think they have no choice… We’re in a very strong negotiating position to do what other Presidents should’ve done during a 47-year period — we’ve had 47 years with these bloodthirsty people.” (Watch) President Trump outlined the benefits of a responsible agreement for the Iranian people: “Iran can get themselves on a very good footing if they make a deal. They can make themselves into a strong nation again, a wonderful nation again. They have incredible people, but they seem to be bloodthirsty. They’re led by some very, very unfortunately tough people — and I don’t mean tough in a good way… They have to use reason and they have to use common sense, and they can get themselves into a great position to make themselves into a great country — but a legitimate country, not a country based on death and horror.” (Watch) President Trump stressed the U.S. remains prepared to take decisive action if negotiations fail: “I expect to be bombing because I think that’s a better attitude to go in with — but we’re ready to go.” (Watch) President Trump criticized Radical Left Democrats for undermining America’s interests: “I watch this Low IQ guy, Hakeem Jeffries— he’s a totally Low IQ person — and he’s always ranting and raving, ‘Oh, this war is so terrible.’ They shouldn’t be saying that when we’re in the midst of a negotiation because it does hurt us somewhat. It gives the other side some hope, and I don’t want them to have hope.” (Watch) President Trump warned of the catastrophic consequences of failing to confront the Iranian threat: “Do you want to see a bad stock market? Try blowing up the Middle East, and then Europe, and then they come for us. We’re not going to let that happen.”  (Watch) President Trump reaffirmed American strength and independence: “NATO said to me, ‘No, we’ll send somebody as soon as it’s over’… We don’t need them. We’ll never need them. Actually, they’ll need us — they need us desperately because they’re a paper tiger.” (Watch) President Trump voiced strong support for his nominee to lead the Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh: “I want Kevin. I think Kevin’s great. He’s central casting in a true sense. I think he’s going to do a great job.” (Watch) President Trump discussed his views on interest rates: “I’ve been in favor of interest rates rate rises to stop inflation. I think it sort of is effective. But there’s one thing and nobody ever talks about it but me, unfortunately… We should have the lowest interest rate in the world.” (Watch) President Trump addressed challenges facing the airline industry: “Spirit is in trouble and I’d love somebody to buy Spirit. It’s 14,000 jobs… But with American, it’s doing fine, and United is doing very well… I don’t like having them merge.” (Watch) President Trump criticized the impact of NIL policies and court decisions on college sports: “Look what happened with NIL — they destroyed college sports, the courts… They had such a great system. It was a scholarship system. You get free college if you’re a good athlete, you get this, you get that, and it took care of every sport — fencing, not only football. Now, it’s all football, and the football is bringing down colleges because they’re losing [money]… The court system — a person that never had anything to do with sports, very liberal leaning, Democrat, liberal — she decided that the sports system that was in place for 150 years is no good… And because of that, college sports is a disaster right now.” (Watch) Click here to watch the full interview. Official Press Release: https://www.whitehouse.gov/releases/2026/04/president-trump-addresses-key-issues-facing-the-nation-in-exclusive-cnbc-interview/

Press Release On April 14, 2026, State Police of Latham arrested Alexie A. Santos, 36, of Menands, NY, on a warrant for Grand Larceny 2nd, a class “C” felony. During a previous larceny investigation from Curaleaf in Coeymans, investigators discovered an additional larceny. Santos, who was reportedly employed by the business, allegedly stole more than $50,000 worth of Cannabis from the facility between March 11, 2026, and March 13, 2026. On April 13, 2026, an arrest warrant was issued for Santos as a result of this investigation. Santos was arrested during a traffic stop in Menands, NY. He was then transported to SP Latham for processing. Santos was arraigned at the Coeymans Town Court, where he was remanded to the Albany County Correctional Facility without bail. Please reference the link to a press release related to the previously reported theft from Curaleaf: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/police-arrest-schenectady-man-following-coeymans-larceny-investigation

Program Now Reimburses Volunteer Firefighters for Completing Five Additional Training Courses More Than 4,000 Volunteer Firefighters Have Successfully Completed Training Through the Stipend Program Since 2023 Governor Hochul’s Continued Investments Make New York Safer and More Affordable Video of the Governor’s Announcement Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York’s Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program is expanding to offset costs for five additional training courses available to volunteer firefighters. New York State created the program to strengthen the volunteer fire service and address recruitment and retention challenges by offsetting the costs of required training that individuals need to become a firefighter. This expansion will help reduce obstacles preventing volunteer firefighters from advancing their careers. Since 2023, more than 4,000 volunteer firefighters have successfully completed training through the program. “Since taking office, I’ve been laser-focused on making New York safer and more affordable. By expanding the Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program, we’re doing both – cutting costs for those who serve while enhancing their lifesaving skills,” Governor Hochul said. “This program makes critical training more accessible, allowing our volunteers to grow in their careers without sacrificing their ability to provide for their families. I’m proud to invest in our volunteer firefighters who put their lives on the line to keep New Yorkers safe.” The new stipend-eligible courses and course equivalencies are: Firefighter Survival: Self Rescue: This course teaches firefighters how to rescue themselves if they become trapped or compromised during a fire incident. Stipend Amount: $250 Firefighter Assist and Search Team, and Rapid Intervention Crew: These courses are designed to train firefighters in the critical skills needed to rescue fellow firefighters who are trapped or in distress during an incident.Stipend Amount: $350 Fire and Emergency Services Instructor 1, Fire Officer II, and Firefighter 2: These courses are advanced leadership and instructor development programs. They aim to enhance the leadership capabilities of fire department members and improve their effectiveness in incident command roles, ultimately contributing to the safety of firefighters. Stipend Amount: $500 These five courses build on the catalog of trainings that are already stipend-eligible: Basic Wildland Fire Suppression ($250) Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations ($750), Fire Officer 1 ($1,000) and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus/Interior Firefighting Operations ($1,250). Since the inception of the stipend program, completion of the Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations, and Interior Firefighting Operations courses have increased by 20 percent and completion of the Fire Officer I course has risen 35 percent. New York State Homeland Security and Emergency Services Acting Commissioner Terry O’Leary said, “New York’s volunteer firefighters are critical parts of the fabric of communities statewide and they put their lives on the line every time they answer a call to protect those communities. As New York continues to face challenges with volunteer recruitment, the stipend program has resulted in marked increases in class completions, which has brought additional firefighters to departments across the state. Thanks to the leadership and support of Governor Hochul, this stipend program expansion will continue to help volunteer departments recruit and retain members, keeping themselves and their communities safe.” New York State Fire Administrator James Cable said, “The Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend has contributed to an increase in the number of firefighters completing eligible training courses. The fire training courses included in this expansion of the program focus on firefighter safety and survival skills along with leadership and instructor development, all key areas promoting effectiveness and safety both during training and on the fireground.” New York State County Fire Coordinators Association President Bill Streicher said, “Now more than ever, it is vital that we support our volunteer fire organizations to boost recruitment and retention within the fire service across New York State. These stipends serve to promote and strengthen the fire service across our state while providing a small stipend to firefighters who participate in these classes, to better prepare themselves to serve their communities.” New York State Association of Fire Chiefs CEO Bruce Heberer said, “Proper training keeps our firefighters and our communities safer and at a time when our volunteer agencies are strained, and every dollar counts. The Volunteer training stipends are a vital resource of income to the members of our fire services so that they can focus on their training, instead worrying about how they are going to make ends meet if the training causes them to miss work, allowing them to continue serve their department and take care of their home life!” Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York President Joseph Badala said, “Investments in our fire districts are investments in our communities as better services make our state safer for everyone. We thank Governor Hochul for her efforts to provide departments with the resources they need to do their work safely and strategically.” Additionally, a local fire training stipend may be authorized for the completion of any state Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) training course or equivalent, as determined by OFPC, up to $500. Courses must have been completed on or after August 31, 2023, and applicants must be a member in good standing as determined by their department. Stipend applications must be submitted to OFPC-Stipend@dhses.ny.gov. Additional information on the stipend program can be found on the DHSES website. Approximately nine million New Yorkers, nearly half of the state’s population, are served by volunteer firefighters. Yet in recent years, more than 75 percent of these departments have reported a decrease in the number of individuals willing to volunteer and serve. This shortage is further compounded by the increased operational responsibilities beyond fire protection, including vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous material spills and weather-related rescue operations. At the same time, calls for service have increased 29 percent from 1997 to 2020. In addition to the Volunteer Training Stipend, Governor Hochul has sought to strengthen and stabilize the state’s volunteer fire service by supporting the capital needs of volunteer fire departments through the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment (V-FIRE) Grant Program. Through the first round of V-FIRE funding in October 2024, the state provided $25 million to 88 entities to support the construction of new, or renovation of existing fire stations, classrooms, meeting spaces or training centers; installation of exhaust and decontamination systems; and/or the purchase of equipment such as firefighter Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), PPE washers and dryers and firefighter rehabilitation equipment. About the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control The Office of Fire Prevention and Control delivers a wide breadth of services to firefighters, emergency responders, state and local government agencies, public and private colleges, and the citizens of New York. The office advances public safety through firefighter training, education, fire prevention, investigative, special operations and technical rescue programs. The delivery of these essential services enables the office to make significant contributions to the safety of all of New York State. About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services provides leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to and recover from terrorism, natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies. For more information, visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on X, or visit dhses.ny.gov. Get real time emergency and weather alert texts delivered directly to your phone. Text your county or borough of residence to 333111 to enroll now. Learn more about emergency alerts at dhses.ny.gov/emergency-alerts. Sources: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/supporting-first-responders-governor-hochul-announces-expansion-new-yorks-volunteer

The Incident and Immediate Response WESTMORELAND, N.Y. — According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Westmoreland man was arrested early Tuesday morning following a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation on Daily Road in the Town of Westmoreland. On April 21, 2026, at approximately 1:36 a.m., Road Patrol deputies were dispatched by the Oneida County 911 Center to the intersection of Bartlett Road and Daily Road for a reported motor vehicle accident of unknown severity. Upon arrival, deputies observed a vehicle disabled in a ditch along Daily Road. Following an investigation at the scene, the operator of the vehicle was taken into custody by a deputy assigned to the STOP-DWI Unit. The driver was identified as Martin F. Richlin, 63, of Westmoreland. He was charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, along with additional New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law misdemeanors and violations. Richlin was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for processing. He was later released and is scheduled to be arraigned at Westmoreland Town Court at a later date. All charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

VERONA, N.Y. — According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, a Verona woman was arrested Wednesday evening following a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation on State Route 31 in the Town of Verona. On April 16, 2026, at approximately 8:14 p.m., a Road Patrol deputy conducted a traffic stop after observing multiple vehicle and traffic violations involving a 2011 Jeep Compass. During the stop, deputies reported observing signs of impairment exhibited by the operator. Following a subsequent investigation, the driver was taken into custody by a deputy assigned to the STOP-DWI Unit. The operator, identified as Jennifer J. Carson, 54, of Verona, was charged with Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree, along with additional New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law misdemeanors and violations. Carson was transported to the Kurt B. Wyman Law Enforcement Building for processing. She was later released and is scheduled to be arraigned at Verona Town Court at a later date. As with all criminal cases, the charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Jennifer J. Carson, 54, of Verona NY

The following is an update to the officer involved shooting that occurred on Sunday, April 12, 2026 The individual who operated the 2016 Subaru that struck multiple people, and was subsequently involved in an officer-involved shooting has been identified as Irene M. McIntyre , 46, of East Syracuse, New York. The New York State Police member involved in the officer-involved shooting is Trooper Michael A. Sharshon . Trooper Sharshon has served with the New York State Police for more than four years and is assigned to SP LaFayette. He is currently on critical incident leave. The deceased victim who was struck by McIntyre has been identified as Cheryl Miron , 79, of Fayetteville, New York. The incident was captured on body-worn cameras but will not be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation. Original Press Release April 12, 2026 On April 12, 2026, at approximately 1:37 a.m., New York State Police responded to 5600 Shute Road in the town of LaFayette for a report of an erratic driver traveling through residential yards at a high rate of speed. An investigation determined that a female suspect operating a 2016 Subaru struck a female victim prior to police arrival. A male attempted to stop the suspect by positioning his vehicle behind hers, at which point the suspect backed into his vehicle. Upon arrival, a New York State Trooper observed the suspect continuing to operate the vehicle in a manner that endangered individuals on scene, including running over the female victim and a second male who was attempting to assist despite repeated commands to stop, the suspect continued her actions. A Trooper discharged their division-issued firearm, striking the sole occupant of the vehicle. The suspect was transported to Upstate University Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The female victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two male victims were transported to Upstate University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident is under investigation by the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The State Police contacted the Attorney General’s Office and they responded to the scene. This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/new-york-state-police-investigate-officer-involved-shooting-lafayette

Press Release On April 6, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the New York State Police responded to Upstate Correctional Facility on Bare Hill Road in the town of Malone for a report of a deceased male. An investigation determined that Michael J. Campbell, age 51, was found unresponsive under a sheet. Further investigation revealed signs of foul play, indicating that Campbell had been strangled with a shoelace by his cellmate, Andrew Hernandez, age 42. An autopsy was conducted at Glens Falls Hospital by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael S. Sikirica. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia due to ligature strangulation, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide. The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office, and the New York State Attorney General’s Office are assisting with the investigation. This remains an ongoing investigation, and charges are pending.

The New York State Police are investigating a serious motor vehicle incident that occurred on Colony Park Drive in the town of Salina, Onondaga County. On April 11, 2026, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Uniform Force members responded to a report of a vehicle that had crashed into a residence. The investigation determined that Brendan M. Kearney, age 38, of Syracuse, NY, had transported Jamell L. Works, age 41, of Liverpool, NY, to his residence. Upon arrival, Works refused to exit the vehicle while seated in the driver’s seat. Both Kearney and the witness attempted to have Works exit the vehicle. During this interaction, Kearney reached into the driver’s side in an effort to remove the keys. At that time, Works accelerated the vehicle in reverse, dragging Kearney a short distance. Kearney was thrown to the pavement and sustained serious injuries. Works continued operating the vehicle in reverse, ultimately crashing into the living room of a nearby residence on Colony Park Drive. Kearney was transported to Upstate University Hospital where he is currently listed in critical condition with a reported brain bleed. A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) evaluation was conducted, and Works was determined to be impaired by drugs at the time of the incident. Works is charged with the following:    • Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI Drugs)    • Vehicular Assault    • Aggravated Unlicensed Operation in the First Degree (AUO 1st)    • Additional Vehicle and Traffic Law violations The investigation is continuing. Contact Troop D, Source's: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigating-dwai-drugs-and-vehicular-assault-onondaga-county

Update:   On April 9, 2026, Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, succumbed to injuries sustained in the residential fire that occurred on March 24, 2026. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is still ongoing. Original Press Release March 25, 2026 :  On March 24, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., New York State Police responded to 7905 Areopagitica Avenue in the town of Cicero for a reported structure fire. Mark Smith , age 41, of Bridgeport, NY, was inside the residence at the time of the fire and was transported to Upstate University Hospital in critical condition. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire is ongoing. At this time, preliminary findings do not indicate foul play. New York State Police were assisted at the scene by the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Bridgeport Fire Department, Minoa Fire Department, Onondaga County Department of Emergency Management Fire Investigation Unit, Cicero Fire Department, Clay Fire Department, South Bay Fire Department, East Syracuse Fire Department, Fayetteville Fire Department, and North Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The investigation remains ongoing.