House Democrats unveiled a plan to pause utility cost-recovery for 12 months and send a $150 electric credit, funded by hiking the oil-and-gas severance tax. Lawmakers say it would raise roughly $650 million and fund well-plugging work.

The Scioto River at Circleville is forecast to crest near 16.1 feet Friday — more than a foot above flood stage — and Pickaway County officials warn that even shallow water poses hazards.

NWS survey teams confirmed three tornado touchdowns across central Ohio during Thursday night storms, including an EF1 in Morrow County. No injuries were reported.

A stolen-vehicle stop on Columbus’s west side ended with two arrests, including a 17-year-old, after officers used spike strips and an adult suspect was found in a dumpster.

Homeowners in Knox County report recurring sewage backups that have damaged basements and left families frustrated while officials plan upgrades.

A 53-year-old woman, identified as Florence Vitka, died after being struck while crossing East Dublin-Granville Road Friday night. Columbus police are investigating and asking witnesses to call Crime Stoppers.

UMI Hotpot opens April 1 in Upper Arlington, offering snow crab legs, stone crab claws, butter-baked whole crabs, ramen and more than 200 daily dishes.

Star Lanes is planning a roughly 30,000-square-foot entertainment venue near Ohio State, with upgraded dining and a mid-to-late 2027 target.

Clear and chilly Saturday morning in Columbus with a high near 47°F. A strong warmup next week brings storm chances and gusty winds Tuesday–Wednesday.

Ohio State put the Pi Kappa Phi chapter on interim suspension after an event hospitalized a student. The school notified police and opened a review.

The Crispy Coop said it will shutter its Grandview restaurant at 1717 Northwest Blvd at the end of March. Fans are sharing memories as the neighborhood says goodbye to a longtime fried‑chicken spot.

DNA from a sexual‑assault exam tied 39‑year‑old Marquese Hobson to the alleged rape of a juvenile in east Columbus. He is being held on $750,000 bond with a preliminary hearing set for April 3.

Local Cantina opens a two‑story Tex‑Mex spot in Olde Pickerington Village with patios and DORA access, doors open March 27 at 3 p.m.