Chicago startups raised about $2.6 billion in 2025 as national VC totals surged on AI megadeals, leaving local backers worried that the Midwest is being bypassed.

A semi-truck fire near the Bishop Ford Freeway in Pullman killed one person and drew a large emergency response at E. 112th and Corliss. Officials say the cause is under investigation.

Chicago experiences a significant drop in temperature with isolated snow flurries, challenging even seasoned locals, following a period of above-average warmth.

Sandeep Dhillon faces a felony charge for killing his son's support dog, with a judge denying release. The dog suffered blunt force trauma, as per a necropsy.

A Peoria man was sentenced to 10 years for distributing "ice" methamphetamine after pleading guilty in March 2025. The multi-agency investigation led to his arrest in October 2024.

Sen. Dick Durbin met with MWRD leaders to press the Army Corps for long‑overdue reimbursement for the Thornton Reservoir, which officials say is still owed about $200 million. The funding could free up local flood projects in the south suburbs.

CPD will add civilian investigators to the Bureau of Internal Affairs and pursue promotions and policy changes intended to speed misconduct probes. The moves were outlined at a consent‑decree status hearing.

After a contentious eviction and protests in Huntley, the Trump Truth Store is relocating to Crystal Lake and will soft‑open Jan. 17 in a larger space. A March ribbon‑cutting is planned.

An 11‑story tower at 919 W. Fulton Market is set to finish this month, bringing a major headquarters and new retail to the West Loop. The project has secured anchor tenants and construction financing.

Police seek help in a hit-and-run case where a 14-year-old was hit by an SUV in Hammond while riding his bike. The boy was injured, but his condition was not reported. The police are looking for an SUV with front passenger-side damage.

Edgewater residents and small-business owners sued the city, asking a Cook County judge to undo a sweeping Broadway rezoning they say was enacted without proper notice or public process.

A train-car collision near the Francisco stop on Chicago's Brown Line caused delays and halted train service. The CTA is providing shuttle buses as alternatives.

CRM plans to raze most of Clybourn Place and build the Willow Street District — new shops, plazas and a possible 500‑unit tower as a later phase. The retail pieces are being marketed now while approvals move through city review.