Drugs suspected in 18-year old’s death

Pending further examination and toxicology results,  the death of an 18-year old Braidwood girl now remains undetermined.  That word from Grundy County Coroner John Callahan who suspects drugs having played a part.

Callahan’s release said he was summoned to Braidwood around 5am Saturday on the report of an unresponsive woman in a North Perch Court residence. Kelsey Allison was pronounced dead by Callahan around 5:10am. The Grundy County Sheriff’s office and Coroner found items of interest in the home.  Callahan said an autopsy was performed on the body that afternoon.

Norfolk Southern Second Large Railroad to say it Wouldn’t Use Proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad

(AP) – A second large railroad says it’s not interested in a proposed $8 billion, 278-mile rail line from Indiana to Wisconsin aimed at relieving Chicago-area freight congestion.

Norfolk Southern has submitted a letter to the U.S. Surface Transportation Board saying it has multiple routes into the Chicago area and a bypass route that goes to Kansas City, so it doesn’t believe it would use the proposed Great Lakes Basin Railroad.

The Union Pacific Railroad has said previously it wasn’t interested. Public comment continues through June 15 with the transportation board.

Friends of Paralyzed Peru Police Officer Hope to Raise Money Saturday Night

If you’ve spent time in the hospital recently, you know bills add up in a hurry.

Friends of Peru Police Sergeant Jason Brokaw want to help his family out as the officer battles paralysis from the chest down.  The eight year veteran first started experiencing pain a few months ago.  He’s been getting treatment in Peoria but is home now.

A benefit is happening Saturday at the La Salle Knights of Columbus Hall from 6:00 until midnight.  There will be live music, raffles, food and drinks to help raise money for Brokaw and his family at the benefit.

For tickets you can stop by or call the Peru Police Department.

Holiday Weekend May Mean Different Day for Trash Pick-Up

When a holiday weekend rolls around you want to make sure you know the new time your trash will be picked up the next week.

Spring Valley City Clerk Becky Hansen says her office will be closed on Monday to celebrate Memorial Day. As a result, all garbage pickup will be one day later in Spring Valley next week.

If you have any questions, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 664-4221.

Teen Hits Train Friday Morning in Streator

Not making sure to check before crossing train tracks in your car can have severe consequences.

LaSalle County Deputies responded to reports of a crash involving a teenager and a train Friday morning. According to police, the 17-year old had been driving through Streator when their car hit a train engine at the Cross Street crossing near Frech Street.

The 17-year old was taken to OSF Urgent Care and given a ticket for failing to yield.

Utica’s Canal Market to be Held Sunday “Rain or Shine”

Branded as “Where the Past Meets the Present,” the Canal Market in Utica is back for another year.

Vendors will have their goods for sale tomorrow from 10:00 until 4:00 near the La Salle County Historical Society campus.  There will be antiques, collectibles, and homemade or homegrown products.

Sunday’s Canal Market goes on rain or shine.