Michigan Supreme Court Lets MSU Hazing Death Case Move Forward

The Michigan Supreme Court has cleared the way for charges to proceed in the 2021 hazing-related death of a Michigan State University student.

The state’s high court declined to hear an appeal filed by former student Ethan Cao, who is charged under Michigan’s anti-hazing law in connection with the death of Phat Nguyen following a fraternity party. By declining the appeal, the court allows the case to continue in circuit court.

Michigan State University is where the incident occurred. Ingham County Prosecutor John Dewane said he looks forward to trying the case as it moves ahead.

13-Story Development Proposal Draws Scrutiny in East Lansing

A proposed 13-story development in downtown East Lansing is generating debate ahead of a public hearing.

The project, planned for the 500 block of Albert Avenue, would replace a surface parking lot with more than 80 spaces with a 236-unit residential facility. Plans include interior parking with nearly the same number of spaces as currently available.

Local business owners have voiced concerns about the impact on parking and downtown accessibility. The East Lansing City Council is scheduled to take up the matter during a 7 p.m. meeting at the Hannah Community Center.

Missing Woman Found Safe in East Lansing

East Lansing police say an 81-year-old woman who had been reported missing has been located and is safe.

The woman, identified only as Diane, was last seen near the Costco and Dollar Tree along Saginaw Highway before being found.

Lansing Police Search for Missing, Endangered Woman

In nearby Lansing, police are searching for a 76-year-old woman considered missing and endangered.

Officers say Gwendolynn Shack, described as 5-foot-4 and approximately 120 pounds, may have last been seen near Glenrose and Muskegon Avenue on the city’s northeast side. She was reportedly wearing a white thermal shirt, gray sweatpants, and a maroon scarf.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact local law enforcement.

Lansing Awards $70,000 in Arts Project Grants

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor has announced the recipients of the city’s 2026 Arts Project Grants.

A total of $70,000 was awarded to local arts and cultural organizations to support projects aimed at increasing vibrancy across the city. Among the recipients:

• All of the Above Hip Hop Academy
• Capital City Film Festival
• Fenner Nature Conservancy
• Lansing Children's Choir
• Lansing Symphony Orchestra
• Pure Winds
• REACH Studio Art Center

City officials say the funding is intended to strengthen community engagement and expand access to arts programming.

Protesters Rally at State Capitol Over Iran War Powers

Nearly 100 demonstrators gathered Monday at the Michigan State Capitol to protest the war in Iran.

Participants called on congressional leaders to sign a War Powers Resolution to limit President Donald Trump’s authority to use military force without congressional approval.

Supporters of U.S. intervention also gathered, arguing that military involvement addresses long-standing oppression in the region.

Marshall Battery Plant Opponents Appeal to Michigan Supreme Court

Opponents of a proposed battery plant development in Marshall are taking their fight to the Michigan Supreme Court.

The Committee for Marshall–Not the Megasite says it will appeal a recent decision by the Michigan Court of Appeals that sided with Ford Motor Company’s BlueOval Battery Park project.

U.S. Supreme Court Dismisses Michigan Voter Roll Lawsuit

The U.S. Supreme Court has thrown out a lawsuit challenging how Michigan removes deceased voters from its rolls.

The Public Interest Legal Foundation had argued that thousands of deceased voters remained on the state’s voter rolls. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson called the claims partisan attacks lacking evidence.

Benson Unveils Housing Affordability Agenda

Meanwhile, Benson—now a Democratic gubernatorial candidate—has introduced a new housing affordability agenda for Michigan.

Her proposals include tax breaks to help with down payments, a new tax on short-term rentals such as Airbnb properties, and restrictions on home sales to private equity firms.

The plan is expected to become a key component of the upcoming gubernatorial race as candidates focus on housing costs and economic pressures facing Michigan residents.