Breaking News

BREAKING NEWS
South Carolina Leads Nation in Public School Book Bans
News Summary South Carolina has become the national leader in banning public school books, having removed 22 titles from classrooms and libraries. The Board of Education voted to exclude 10...
U.S. Ends Temporary Protected Status for Afghan Immigrants
News Summary The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan immigrants, raising concerns over the risk of deportation for thousands. Nearly...
Irmo Seeks New Town Administrator Following Resignation
News Summary Irmo is on the lookout for a new town administrator after Courtney Dennis resigned, effective July 3. Dennis, who has served in various roles including police chief and...
Irmo Town Council Searches for New Administrator
News Summary The Irmo Town Council is initiating a search for a new Town Administrator following Courtney Dennis’s resignation, effective July 3, 2025. Dennis, a public servant for over two...
In Memory of Carol Newsome Detwiler
News Summary Carol Newsome Detwiler, a cherished resident of Phenix City, Alabama, passed away at the age of 86. Renowned for her resilience, dedication to family, and successful career at...
South Carolina Leads Nation in Book Bans
News Summary South Carolina has emerged as the top state for book bans in the U.S., with 22 titles removed from public schools. The state board’s recent decision to ban...
Irmo Town Administrator Resigns After Two Decades of Service
News Summary Courtney Dennis, the Town Administrator of Irmo, has announced his resignation, effective July 3, after more than twenty years of dedication to the community. His departure is due...
West Florence Knights Overpower Irmo Yellow Jackets in Playoffs
News Summary In an impressive display of strength, the West Florence Knights defeated the Irmo Yellow Jackets 15-5 in the second round of the SCHSL 5A D2 playoffs. This victory...
West Florence High School Baseball Team Dominates Irmo
News Summary West Florence High School’s baseball team showcased their strength in the SCHSL 5A, D2 playoffs with a decisive 15-5 victory over Irmo, concluding the game in six innings....
Eight Arrested in South Carolina Child Predator Sting
News Summary In an extensive undercover operation, eight men have been arrested in South Carolina for attempting to meet children for sexual activities. The collaboration involved multiple law enforcement agencies...
POLITICS
South Carolina Leads Nation in Public School Book Bans
News Summary South Carolina has become the national leader in banning public school books, having removed 22 titles from classrooms and libraries. The Board of Education voted to exclude 10...
U.S. Ends Temporary Protected Status for Afghan Immigrants
News Summary The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan immigrants, raising concerns over the risk of deportation for thousands. Nearly...
South Carolina Leads Nation in Book Bans
News Summary South Carolina has emerged as the top state for book bans in the U.S., with 22 titles removed from public schools. The state board’s recent decision to ban...
Widow of Irmo Firefighter Sues City and County Over Death
News Summary Emma Muller has filed a lawsuit against the City of Columbia and Richland County following the death of her husband, James Muller, an Irmo firefighter. The suit alleges...
UFLAC Leadership Suspended Amid Financial Misconduct Allegations
News Summary The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City (UFLAC) faces a leadership crisis as three key officers, including President Freddy Escobar, are suspended due to financial misconduct allegations totaling...
Lexington-Richland 5 School Board Member Arrested
News Summary Elizabeth Barnhardt, a member of the Lexington-Richland 5 school board, was arrested for driving under the influence. She faces a first-offense DUI charge. Barnhardt plans to contest the...
Flandreau Commemorates 50th Anniversary of Saigon’s Fall
News Summary Flandreau, South Dakota, recently held a poignant event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, an event that marked the closure of the Vietnam War....
Lawsuit Filed After Tragic Death of Irmo Firefighter
News Summary A lawsuit filed by the widow of Irmo firefighter James Muller claims negligence by the City of Columbia and Richland County contributed to her husband’s death in a...
House Majority Leader Resigns Amid Abortion Legislation Conflict
News Summary House Majority Leader Davey Hiott has resigned from the House Family Caucus after a fallout with caucus chairman John McCravy. His resignation follows accusations of hindering the abortion...
South Carolina House Passes Private School Voucher Bill
News Summary The South Carolina House of Representatives has passed a bill allowing parents to obtain vouchers valued at $7,500 for sending their children to private schools. This legislation, known...
CRIME
Eight Arrested in South Carolina Child Predator Sting
News Summary In an extensive undercover operation, eight men have been arrested in South Carolina for attempting to meet children for sexual activities. The collaboration involved multiple law enforcement agencies...
Irmo Police Department Arrests Eight in Child Predator Sting
News Summary The Irmo Police Department conducted a successful undercover operation that led to the arrest of eight men accused of attempting to exploit children online. Collaborating with various law...
Irmo Police Arrest Eight Men in Child Exploitation Sting
News Summary In a major undercover operation targeting online child predators, the Irmo Police Department arrested eight individuals for attempting to exploit minors through social media. The collaborative effort involved...
Car Crashes into Lita’s Treats Bakery in Irmo
News Summary A car crashed into Lita’s Treats bakery in Irmo on Thursday, causing significant damage but no injuries. The driver accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake. Emergency...
Irmo Police Department Arrests Eight in Child Exploitation Sting
News Summary The Irmo Police Department has arrested eight men involved in an undercover sting operation aimed at identifying potential child predators. Utilizing social media, law enforcement engaged with suspects...
Eight Arrested in Undercover Operation Against Online Child Predators
News Summary The Irmo Police Department, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, arrested eight men suspected of attempting to exploit minors online. The undercover operation involved posing as children...
ECONOMY
Irmo Town Council Searches for New Administrator
News Summary The Irmo Town Council is initiating a search for a new Town Administrator following Courtney Dennis’s resignation, effective July 3, 2025. Dennis, a public servant for over two...
Irmo Police Department Arrests Eight in Child Predator Sting
News Summary The Irmo Police Department conducted a successful undercover operation that led to the arrest of eight men accused of attempting to exploit children online. Collaborating with various law...
Lita’s Treats in Irmo Temporarily Closes After Crash
News Summary Lita’s Treats in Irmo has temporarily shut down following a vehicle collision where an SUV crashed into the bakery. The incident occurred during peak hours, but thankfully, there...
Philadelphia Investigations Underway in Fire Department
News Summary The Philadelphia Fire Department is facing dual investigations regarding sexual harassment and overtime abuse claims against Deputy Commissioner Anthony Hudgins. Complaints have emerged from multiple employees, prompting an...
Eight Arrested in Undercover Operation Against Online Child Predators
News Summary The Irmo Police Department, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, arrested eight men suspected of attempting to exploit minors online. The undercover operation involved posing as children...
Eight Men Arrested in Undercover Child Predator Operation in Irmo
News Summary In a significant undercover operation, the Irmo Police Department has arrested eight men accused of attempting to exploit minors online. This operation involved engaging with suspected predators through...
Lawsuit Filed After Firefighter’s Tragic Death in Irmo
News Summary Emma Muller, the widow of Irmo firefighter James Muller, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Columbia and Richland County after her husband’s death during a fire...
Lawsuit Filed by Widow of Firefighter Following Tragic Death
News Summary Emma Muller, widow of Irmo Firefighter James Muller, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Columbia and Richland County after her husband’s death during a fire response....
Lawsuit Filed Following Death of Irmo Firefighter
News Summary Emma Muller has initiated legal action against the City of Columbia and Richland County over the tragic on-duty death of her husband, firefighter James Muller. He died while...
Widow of Fallen Firefighter Files Lawsuit Against Columbia
News Summary Emma Muller, widow of firefighter James Muller, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Columbia and Richland County. The lawsuit alleges negligence in connection with her husband’s...
SPORT
University of Cincinnati Expands Athletic Recruitment
News Summary As spring arrives, the University of Cincinnati ramps up its football and basketball recruiting, offering scholarships to talented athletes such as Carson Crawford, Maleek Miller, and Rayshawn Duncan...
Irmo Hosts Largest Cornhole Tournament This Weekend
News Summary Irmo is gearing up for its largest cornhole tournament, taking place on Saturday at Moore Park. Hosted by Leadership Lexington and benefiting the Carolina Wildlife Center, the event...
University of South Carolina Football Recruitment Expands
News Summary The University of South Carolina’s football program is ramping up recruitment efforts, offering scholarships to several prospects from the class of 2028, including quarterback Wonderful Monds IV and...
Columbia’s First Responders Unite for Suicide Prevention Game
News Summary On Saturday at 6 p.m., Columbia’s first responders will lace up for the 2nd Annual Basketball Game for Suicide Prevention at Union United Methodist Church. The Irmo firefighters...
Columbia Celebrates 52nd Annual Governor’s Cup Road Race
News Summary Columbia, South Carolina, hosted the 52nd Annual Governor’s Cup Road Race, attracting runners and spectators for a weekend filled with fitness and fun. This longest-running road race in...
Becca Bowen to Perform National Anthem at Fireflies Game
News Summary Columbia, South Carolina is thrilled as Becca Bowen, a rising country music star, prepares to sing the National Anthem at the Fireflies game. Known for her unique blend...
DISASTERS
Car Crashes into Lita’s Treats Bakery in Irmo
News Summary A car crashed into Lita’s Treats bakery in Irmo on Thursday, causing significant damage but no injuries. The driver accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake. Emergency...
Lita’s Treats in Irmo Temporarily Closes After Crash
News Summary Lita’s Treats in Irmo has temporarily shut down following a vehicle collision where an SUV crashed into the bakery. The incident occurred during peak hours, but thankfully, there...
Vehicle Crashes into Irmo Bakery, No Injuries Reported
News Summary On May 8, a vehicle crashed into Lita’s Treats bakery in Irmo, SC, after jumping the curb. Fortunately, the driver and customers were unharmed. Emergency responders ensured safety...
SUV Crashes into Lita’s Treats Restaurant in Irmo
News Summary A small SUV crashed into Lita’s Treats restaurant in Irmo without causing any injuries. Local police and EMS responded promptly, ensuring the safety of all present. The driver...
Lawsuit Filed After Firefighter’s Tragic Death in Irmo
News Summary Emma Muller, the widow of Irmo firefighter James Muller, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Columbia and Richland County after her husband’s death during a fire...
Lawsuit Filed by Widow of Irmo Firefighter Following Tragic Death
News Summary The widow of Irmo firefighter James Muller has filed a lawsuit against the Columbia-Richland Fire Department after Muller was killed during rescue operations at a fire. The lawsuit...
Tragic Firefighter Death Linked to Miscommunication
News Summary An investigation into a fatal apartment fire in Columbia reveals miscommunication and negligence contributed to the death of firefighter James Michael Muller. The May 2023 incident trapped Muller...
Lawsuit Filed Following Death of Irmo Firefighter
News Summary Emma Muller has initiated legal action against the City of Columbia and Richland County over the tragic on-duty death of her husband, firefighter James Muller. He died while...
Severe Weather Set to Hit the Midlands, South Carolina
News Summary Residents of the Midlands are bracing for severe weather this weekend as a cold front sweeps through, bringing cooler temperatures and a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 9 p.m....
Tragic School Bus Accident in Chester County Claims Life of 13-Year-Old Student
News Summary A tragic school bus accident on Interstate 77 in Chester County, SC, resulted in the death of 13-year-old Jose Maria Gonzalez-Linares and left 21 others injured. The bus,...
HEALTH
Eight Men Arrested in Undercover Child Predator Operation in Irmo
News Summary In a significant undercover operation, the Irmo Police Department has arrested eight men accused of attempting to exploit minors online. This operation involved engaging with suspected predators through...
Columbia Hospitals Achieve High Safety Grades
News Summary Three hospitals in the Columbia area have earned commendable safety grades in the latest report from the Leapfrog Group. Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge and Prisma Health Baptist maintained...
Columbia, SC Battles Soaring Pollen Counts This Spring
News Summary As spring arrives in Columbia, South Carolina, residents are facing rising pollen counts that are exacerbating seasonal allergies. The city ranks 15th in the U.S. for allergy challenges...
Lexington Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Stabbing Girlfriend
News Summary A Lexington man, Robert Allen Gaffney, received a 25-year sentence for attempted murder after violently stabbing his girlfriend over twenty times. The brutal attack occurred on May 26,...
Columbia Community Supports News Anchor Facing Cancer Battle
News Summary J.R. Berry, a beloved news anchor at WLTX, has announced a diagnosis of a curable form of cancer. The Columbia community expresses overwhelming support for Berry, who has...
Tragic Incident in Forest Acres: Domestic Dispute Turns Deadly
News Summary A domestic dispute in Forest Acres escalated tragically, resulting in the death of Mauricio Garcia and charges against his girlfriend Kristen Berger. The incident underscores concerns about domestic...
Shocking Lawsuit Exposes Dark Secrets of Columbia Care Home
News Summary A lawsuit filed by the family of Jared Ondrea reveals disturbing events at a Columbia care home, involving a resident with a violent history. This case raises serious...
Irmo Man Indicted for Threatening President Trump
News Summary Travis Keith Lang, a resident of Irmo, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for making threats against President Donald Trump. The case reveals a pattern of...
Heartbreaking Tragedy in Irmo as Baby Girl Loses Life in Car Accident
News Summary A tragic car accident in Irmo, South Carolina, has claimed the life of a 10-month-old girl, Honesty Swearington. On March 6, 2024, the mother lost control of their...
Search Underway for Missing 16-Year-Old in Irmo
News Summary Authorities in Irmo, South Carolina, are urgently searching for 16-year-old Taja Fletcher, who has been missing since Thursday morning. Descriptions of her clothing and the vehicle she was...
SHOWBIZ
Columbia to Host 1st Annual Walk for Water
News Summary Columbia is preparing for its 1st Annual Walk for Water on May 17, aimed at raising awareness of the global water crisis. Participants will walk three miles to...
Irmo Hosts Largest Cornhole Tournament This Weekend
News Summary Irmo is gearing up for its largest cornhole tournament, taking place on Saturday at Moore Park. Hosted by Leadership Lexington and benefiting the Carolina Wildlife Center, the event...
Irmo Welcomes Red, White and Brews Event
News Summary The Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Red, White and Brews event at Irmo Town Park on May 8. Attendees can enjoy hand-selected wines, craft beers,...
Greater Irmo Chamber Hosts Red, White And Brews Event
News Summary The Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Red, White And Brews event at Irmo Town Park on May 8th. Attendees can enjoy a variety of...
Columbia College Celebrates Graduation Ceremony
News Summary On May 2, 2025, Columbia College held its commencement ceremony, conferring 175 degrees to graduates. Dr. John H. Dozier emphasized the importance of service over titles, and alumnus...
Columbia Celebrates National Bike Month with Community Ride
News Summary Columbia hosted a community ride organized by the Cola Town Bike Collective to celebrate National Bike Month and advocate for improved biking infrastructure. Cyclists gathered to raise awareness...
SCASA Announces 2024-25 Palmetto’s Finest Award Winners
News Summary The South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA) has announced the winners of the 2024-25 Palmetto’s Finest awards, honoring schools for outstanding student achievement and innovative practices. The...
Columbia, SC Weekend Filled with Festivals and Events
News Summary This weekend in Columbia, SC, a variety of music, art, and community events are taking place, including the BirdFest bluegrass festival featuring headliners Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder....
Lake Murray’s 37th Annual Independence Day Celebration
News Summary Lake Murray, SC, is preparing for its 37th Annual Independence Day Celebration on June 28, 2025. Sponsored by Lexington Medical Center, the event features South Carolina’s largest fireworks...
Irmo Begins Construction on Saluda Shoals Riverwalk Project
News Summary The Irmo-Chapin Recreation Commission has initiated construction on the Saluda Shoals Riverwalk, a $22 million project aimed at enhancing outdoor recreation in the area. The groundbreaking ceremony took...
TECH UPDATES
Columbia, SC Weekend Filled with Festivals and Events
News Summary This weekend in Columbia, SC, a variety of music, art, and community events are taking place, including the BirdFest bluegrass festival featuring headliners Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder....
Columbia SC Prepares for Dynamic Concert Lineup in May 2025
News Summary In May 2025, Columbia, SC will host an exciting array of concerts featuring legendary artists such as Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Chaka Khan. Various venues will showcase...
Columbia Weekend Filled with Food and Festivities
News Summary This weekend, Columbia is set to come alive with an array of events that feature delicious food, vibrant music, and outdoor activities. From the Columbia Food and Wine...
Rock Concert Coming to Moore Park in Irmo!
News Summary On April 25, 2025, Irmo will host an exciting rock concert at Moore Park featuring the MetalBox Rock Band and the Bon Jovi tribute band, Shot Thru the...
Stevie Nicks Set to Perform in Columbia, SC
News Summary Legendary musician Stevie Nicks is set to perform in Columbia, SC, on August 27, 2025, as part of her North American solo tour. The concert, taking place at...
Stevie Nicks to Perform in Columbia in 2025
News Summary Legendary songstress Stevie Nicks is set to perform in Columbia, South Carolina on August 27, 2025, at the Colonial Life Arena. This concert is part of her limited...
Katt Williams Brings Comedy to Columbia
News Summary On May 3, 2025, comedy legend Katt Williams will perform at the Colonial Life Arena as part of his ‘Heaven on Earth Tour’. Pre-sale starts June 5, 2024,...
Jonas Brothers Announce 20th Anniversary Tour Stop in Columbia
News Summary The Jonas Brothers will perform in Columbia, SC, on November 6, 2025, as part of their ‘JONAS 20: LIVING THE DREAM TOUR.’ This concert marks their return for...
Fantasia to Perform in Columbia, SC in 2025
News Summary Columbia, SC, is set to host R&B superstar Fantasia on June 13, 2025, at the Colonial Life Arena. The concert promises a night of electrifying performances featuring her...
Festivals and Events to Look Forward to in Columbia This April
News Summary April is brimming with exciting festivals and events in Columbia! From the inaugural South Carolina Pimento Cheese Festival to the vibrant Tartan Day South Festival, there’s something for...
SCIENCE
Columbia Honors R&B Legend Angie Stone
News Summary The community of Columbia, SC, came together to celebrate the life of R&B icon Angie Stone, who passed away at 63 in a tragic car crash. Family, friends,...
Columbia’s Commie House Closes Amid Controversy
News Summary The DIY music venue, Commie House, is closing its doors in Columbia, SC, following allegations of discrimination. The venue has been crucial for local indie bands, sparking community...