Ohio's Department of Natural Resources encourages residents to donate their live-cut Christmas trees to create habitats for fish, birds, and small mammals instead of disposing of them in landfills.

Police in Columbus seek James Mincy for a Christmas Day shooting on Refugee Rd; no injuries reported, with a warrant issued for Felonious Assault. Public assistance is requested.

Hilliard Police Sgt. Zellers and dispatchers were honored for effectively aiding a confused driver, reflecting the 911 industry's excellence promoted by the Kyle Plush Foundation.

Ohio marks a five-year milestone in its fight against opioid addiction with Attorney General's SCOPE initiative, focusing on education, prevention, and research.

The Columbus Police reported a hit-and-run on Sullivant Avenue that left an adult pedestrian severely injured, who later died. Authorities seek the maroon vehicle's driver and ask for public help.

The Ohio legislature passed Senate Bill 54 to establish the Ohio River Commission, aimed at economic growth along the Ohio River, pending the governor's approval.

The Ohio State Fire Marshal reminds citizens to celebrate the New Year safely with fireworks, highlighting guidelines and legal requirements for their use.

The National Weather Service reports rain and a cold spell for the Ohio Valley, with possible thunderstorms and light snow accumulations. Winds may reach up to 35 mph, and below-normal temperatures are expected to persist.

Mild weather in Columbus and Cincinnati will transition to chillier temperatures, with an active week of disturbances bringing rain and potentially reaching lower 60s before colder air sets in.

Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose emphasized the significance of every vote after close local elections, urging voter participation and preparedness for upcoming elections while providing resources for potential candidates.

A Christmas morning shooting in Columbus left 30-year-old Demetris Mitchell dead. The suspect fled in a maroon Ford, and police sought public assistance to find them.

An Ohio corrections officer, Andrew Lansing, was killed by an inmate on Christmas at Ross Correctional Institution; the inmate has since been transferred, and an investigation is underway.

The National Weather Service predicts a gray, rainy Christmas Day in the Columbus and Cincinnati areas, with temperatures near or above normal. Unsettled weather is expected to continue over the weekend.