The Niagara Falls community is grieving the sudden passing of 14-year-old Vincent Samuel Caskinett, a ninth-grade student at Niagara Falls High School. Known by friends and family as “Vinnie” or “Chenzo,” he tragically passed away on March 23rd, 2025, at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston. Born on July 23rd, 2010, Vinnie was a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls and was cherished by those who knew him. He had a deep love for football, especially the Detroit Lions, and enjoyed playing basketball, drawing, and playing video games. Those that knew him best pointed out the pride he took in his clothing and personal style, highlighting his passion for fashion. Vinnie is survived by his parents, William Caskinett II and Stephanie Fancher, as well as his siblings William, Cameron, and Lily. He also leaves behind loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who will forever cherish his memory. As the Niagara Falls High School community comes together to remember Vinnie, his kindness, enthusiasm, and spirit will never be forgotten. Niagara Falls High School Mourns Death of 14-year-old Student

A Town of Tonawanda police detective is being honored for his heroic actions after saving a man from a burning vehicle while off duty. On March 23rd, Detective Mark Muscoreil was traveling on I-290 west when he witnessed a car slam into a guide rail. Acting quickly, he pulled over, called emergency services, and rushed toward the wrecked vehicle. Upon reaching the car, he found the driver unconscious and experiencing a seizure as smoke and flames engulfed the engine compartment. Without hesitation, Muscoreil lifted the man from the car and carried him to safety, preventing what could have been a fatal outcome. Moments later, the vehicle was fully consumed by fire. In recognition of his courageous efforts, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department awarded Muscoreil a Report of Commendation, praising his bravery, quick thinking, and dedication to public safety. The Department posted the following message on Facebook: "Detective Muscoreil’s actions that day demonstrate his commitment to the wellbeing of the public and his adherence to the principles that define a good Police Officer. He demonstrated bravery, quick wittedness and compassion, saving the life of the 39-year-old driver. Detective Muscoreil’s actions are indicative of his character, and worthy of commendation. Job well done, Detective Muscoreil. Thank you."  Off-duty Detective Saves Unconscious Driver from Fiery Crash

Mario Lopez, known for his role in "Saved By the Bell," announced via social media that he is currently filming a new holiday movie in Buffalo. In a short video, the actor and host of "Access Hollywood" can be seen bundled up in a winter coat, expressing his discomfort with the frigid temperatures. Lopez is filming at the St. Andrew Country Day School in the Town of Tonawanda, which has been adorned with Christmas decorations. . . hinting that the project is indeed a holiday-themed film. He mentioned that local fans of "Bills Mafia" would be assisting with crowd scenes during his second day of shooting. The actor is expected to spend approximately three weeks in the Buffalo area working on this project. While specific details about the film remain under wraps, Lopez has previously starred in Lifetime Christmas movies "Steppin’ Into the Holiday" and "Feliz NaviDAD," as well as the Great American Family film "Once Upon a Christmas Wish." Viewers can likely anticipate seeing the Buffalo production on television later this year. Mario Lopez Shooting Holiday Film in Buffalo

The anticipated arrival of a Sonic Drive-In in Niagara Falls has been shelved indefinitely due to unresolved issues between stakeholders. The proposed restaurant, which was set to be built near the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls, NY on Military Road, will no longer move forward as originally planned. Announced last year by the Western New York franchise holder, the $2.5 million project aimed to replace a vacant outparcel building with a 2,500-square-foot restaurant featuring two drive-thru lanes and 15 delivery stalls. However, obstacles during the planning and approval process ultimately led to the project's cancellation. Despite the setback, there remains interest in bringing Sonic to the Niagara Falls area in the future. For now, residents will have to wait as discussions continue on whether an alternative location or revised plans might be considered. Plans for Sonic Drive-In in Niagara Falls Put on Hold Amid Disagreements

After decades of representing high-profile clients, including politicians, business executives, and law enforcement officers, prominent Buffalo attorney Herbert Greenman has transitioned into public service. At 78, Greenman has stepped into a new role as the chief public defender for Niagara County, leading an office responsible for handling thousands of cases each year for individuals who cannot afford legal representation. The change in leadership follows an internal investigation into alleged misconduct within the Public Defender’s Office. A private Buffalo law firm was brought in to examine claims that some attorneys engaged in unprofessional behavior, including excessive drinking during lunch, falsifying time records, and making inappropriate remarks in the workplace. The findings, presented in early February prompted the resignation of former Chief Public Defender Nicholas Robinson and the departure of First Assistant Vincent Sandonato who transferred to another county position. Prior to accepting this position on March 1st, Greenman had been preparing to step back from his career as a senior partner at Lipsitz, Green, Scime, Cambria. While he was ready to reduce his workload, he was not prepared to retire completely. One of the immediate changes Greenman is implementing includes stricter workplace policies. Attorneys will now be required to work in the office unless they are attending court or conducting official business elsewhere, a shift from previous remote work practices. With over 7,000 cases passing through the Public Defender’s Office annually, Greenman’s leadership marks a significant turning point as Niagara County aims to rebuild trust and ensure effective legal representation for those in need. Veteran Defense Attorney Herb Greenman Takes Over as Niagara County Public Defender

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 4300 block of Pine Avenue around 1am on March 25th after reports of an assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the complainant who stated he was walking through Packard Court (4300 Pine Avenue) when he saw two females in a physical altercation. Each were screaming and throwing hands at one another. The complainant attempted to break up the fight. While doing so, he was struck several times and believes he was kicked when he fell to the ground. He transported himself to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center where he was found to have a sprained ring finger and lacerations on his face. The complainant was unable to give an apartment number or physical description for either of the women. No further information is available at this time. Male Sent to Hospital after Attempting to Break Up Catfight

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 100 block of 63rd Street around 1:45pm on March 22nd after reports of a stolen vehicle. Upon arrival, officers spoke to the complainant who stated that on March 19th at 2:30am, her security cameras captured two unknown male suspects enter her fenced in driveway/backyard area. The video shows them taking two ATV/dirt bikes from the yard and walk back down the driveway towards the street before disappearing from view. A third ATV was also missing. The complainant, along with family members, went on to find the Yamaha dirt bike and SSR dirt bike during the day on March 19th in a field. However, they were unable to locate the white Suzuki ATV. Officers relocated to Niagara Fuel along Buffalo Avenue to check security cameras in regard to the call. They were permitted to watch surveillance footage, which showed two possible suspects walk through the adjacent parking lot to the complainant’s home around 2:45am. The two suspects did not re-enter the camera’s view again.  No further information is available at this time. Niagara Falls Police Investigate Stolen ATVs

A controversial resolution passed by the Niagara Falls City Council on Wednesday, March 26th, has sparked outrage among residents who feel their voices are being stifled. The new rules impose stricter time limits on public comment and restrict the number of speakers on any given topic, leading many to accuse city leaders of silencing dissent. The council is currently under democratic control. The resolution, approved by a 4-1 vote, reduces individual speaking time from five minutes to three and caps the number of speakers per topic at three. Additionally, it grants the council chairperson the authority to cut off any speaker deemed to be “verbally attacking” government officials, organizations, or private entities. Council Chair James Perry led the push for these changes following multiple contentious meetings where residents shouted at council members and engaged in heated exchanges. Wednesday’s meeting was no exception, as community members spoke out for over an hour against the resolution forcing a recess due to the overwhelming backlash. Many residents saw the resolution as an attempt to suppress criticism rather than maintain order. “We elect our representatives to serve us, not to protect themselves from tough conversations,” one resident argued. “Since when did public meetings become a privilege instead of a right?” Another resident issued a stark warning: “If you take the voice away from the people, we will take your seat away. We don’t want leaders who refuse to listen.” Originally, the resolution included 13 changes, but the final version passed with 12 after amendments were made during the recess. One of the most contentious provisions, limiting the number of topics residents could discuss, was removed. This allows public comments on agenda items and a designated “for the good of the community” segment to continue. It is unclear how this resolution will impact the upcoming city council race where multiple seats are up. Niagara Falls Residents Outraged Over New Limits on Public Comment at Council Meetings

The Niagara County District Attorney’s Office has been assigned as a special prosecutor in the investigation surrounding last April’s car crashes involving Erie County Sheriff’s Office Chief of Narcotics Daniel “D.J.” Granville. Erie County District Attorney Michael Keane announced the appointment on Wednesday, citing a potential conflict of interest within his office. The Buffalo Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division had recently reached out to the Erie County DA’s office for consultation on the case. However, Keane noted that a family member of Granville works in his office, raising concerns over the appearance of impropriety. As a result, he sought the appointment of an outside prosecutor, which Erie County Judge Sheila DiTullio granted. Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman confirmed that his office would review the matter upon receiving the official court order. The case stems from an incident on April 11th, 2024, when Granville crashed a county-owned, unmarked pickup truck into seven parked vehicles. Some of the collisions occurred while driving the wrong way on a one-way street. Despite the severity of the crash, Granville only received a moving violation, which was later reduced to a jaywalking charge. Police reports from the incident were signed by Buffalo Police Lt. Lucia Esquilin, who is Granville’s sister-in-law. It was then revealed that Granville had personal and financial ties to Keane’s office. His sister-in-law, Kristen Granville, works as a legal secretary and former victim advocate for the Erie County DA’s Office. Additionally, Granville had donated $550 to Keane’s political campaign in 2024 and appeared in a political advertisement supporting Keane’s candidacy. This is not the first time the Granville family has been involved in a similar incident. In 2016, D.J. Granville’s brother, William “Billy” Granville, crashed an unmarked county-owned sedan into a parked car in Buffalo’s Old First Ward. The handling of that case also drew public scrutiny at the time. With the Niagara County DA’s Office now overseeing the investigation, officials hope to provide a transparent and impartial review of the events surrounding Granville’s crash and any potential misconduct. Niagara County DA Takes Over Investigation of Erie County Sheriff's Narcotics Chief’s Crash

In the wake of a devastating house fire that claimed the life of her mother, Kimberly Kloc, Makayla is receiving an outpouring of support from the Western New York community. Alongside financial contributions, residents have donated essential items such as clothing to assist Makayla during this challenging time. The fire, which occurred on Central Avenue in Lancaster, resulted in the destruction of their home, taking with it countless memories. In response to the tragedy, community members have rallied to help. Kelly Reddington, whose niece is a friend of Makayla, initiated a GoFundMe campaign aimed at providing various forms of support for Makayla. The fundraiser has already surpassed $30,000 with donations continuing to come in. "This heartbreak comes just months after Kayla lost her grandmother to cancer," states the GoFundMe . "Now, she is not only grieving the loss of her mother, but she is also left without a home, belongings, or even the comfort of her two beloved cats, Cassie and Rat , who are still missing and may have escaped the fire." In addition to financial support, the community is also collecting items for Makayla. The GoFundMe page includes details about her sizes and preferences for clothing: -Shirt size: XS -Pant size: Small -Shoe size: 8 to 9 -Favorite colors: Baby pink and/or black. For those interested in contributing, donations can be made through the GoFundMe page titled "Help Kayla After Tragic House Fire": https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kayla-after-tragic-house-fire Community Unites to Support Young Girl Following Mother's Tragic Death in House Fire

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 10:30am on March 20th when officers observed a male known to law enforcement walking on foot in the 700 block of 27th Street. Officers notified dispatch who confirmed that the male had 29 active warrants out of the City of Niagara Falls. They made verbal contact with the male who began to flee on foot through the alley between 2400 blocks of Pine Avenue and Grand Avenue. The male began running North through neighboring yards towards the 2400 block of Grand Avenue. Backup was requested over the radio. Additional officers arrived on scene and observed the male running West towards a nearby home. He was located in the rear of the residence hiding in a tree. The male was placed in handcuffs and transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. No further information is available at this time. Niagara Falls Man with 29 Active Warrants Arrested while Hiding in a Tree

Niagara Falls Police were on routine patrol around 7am on March 20th when officers observed an unknown male riding his bicycle eastbound down the 8700 block of Niagara Falls Boulevard. After passing the male, officers observed that there was no bell/signal device and/or reflector devices to ride at night. Due to this, officers initiated a traffic stop on the 9100 block of St. Johns Parkway. At this point, the male did not stop his bike and led officers through a “slow chase” down the street. Officers gave him several commands to stop and pull over while emergency lights were activated, but the male would continuously ride through resident’s front yards. Officers later apprehended the male on Niemel Drive. One officer was able to exit the vehicle and pull the male off of his bicycle. He actively tried to escape while officers were trying to place him under arrest.   Officers gave him multiple commands to place his hands behind his back. When he did not listen, the officer grabbed his wrists and forcibly placed him in custody The male was announced over the air where there was a positive hit for an active warrant out of Niagara Falls City Court. The male complained of multiple injuries from previous events and was transported to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center for medical treatment. Detectives arrived and took photographs of the male’s injuries. After leaving the hospital, the male was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. No further information is available at this time. Bicycle Rider takes Niagara Falls Police on 'Slow chase'

Niagara Falls Police responded to Seneca One Stop around 8pm on March 19th after reports of an argument that would later be turned into an assault. Upon arrival, officers were met by the complainant who stated that he was approached by the male suspect in an aggressive manner. The complainant told the suspect to back away, but he did not listen. This irritated the suspect, at which time he pushed the complainant on the ground causing physical injury and a laceration to his left elbow. The incident was captured on Seneca One Stop cameras.   The complainant further told police that when he left the store, the suspect threw what appeared to be a rock at his passenger side door. This caused roughly $250 worth of damage. The suspect was arrested and transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was held for arraignment. No further information is available at this time. Assault at Niagara Falls Seneca One Stop Results in Arrest

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 1500 block of Ferry Avenue around 2am on March 18th for a suspected intoxicated driver. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the 911 caller (“complainant”) who stated that they were at the Seneca One Stop when the suspect vehicle bumped them lightly from behind causing no damage. After this occurred, the vehicle left the scene and the complainant followed. While pursuing the vehicle, the complainant observed the vehicle strike a curb causing sparks to fly out from under it. The vehicle then came to a stop, at which time the complainant called police who responded to that location. The complainant identified and pointed at the suspect vehicle behind them on the block with its headlights on. On Ferry Avenue, officers observed a 2002 Lexus blocking a driveway and running. A male was in the front passenger seat and a female slumped over in the backseat. The male identified himself and stated that the female in the backseat was drinking vodka and hit the other car. She then drove off the roadway before parking. The male said he was relieved that the police had arrived due to her condition. Officers observed the male’s pants to be undone. He said the female climbed into the backseat trying to “get with him.” The female was drooling and had shallow respirations. She was unresponsive to a sternal rub. Officers requested Fire/EMS to respond. The male stated that other than vodka, he did not know what the female might have taken. He also admitted during this exchange to drinking vodka as well. The female was removed from the vehicle but remained unconscious. She had constricted pupils even in dark lighting which is indicative of narcotic analgesic use. AMR transported the female to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. Officers smelled an odor of alcoholic beverage on her person as EMS was treating her. There was an open bottle of vodka in the vehicle. The female did not fain consciousness and was placed under arrest. Due to her unresponsive state, she was unable to consent or refuse to a chemical test. Officers had two vials of blood drawn under “implied consent.” She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Niagara Falls City Court. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Niagara Falls City Court.   No further information is available at this time. Niagara Falls Police Place Unconscious Woman Under Arrest

The Cheesecake Factory, known for its extensive menu, is making significant changes by removing 13 dishes as part of a broader menu overhaul. The popular chain, which operates over 200 locations in the U.S. and Canada, has long been recognized for its massive spiral-bound menu featuring more than 250 options. However, the company routinely updates its offerings to stay relevant and maintain customer interest. The latest shakeup includes the removal of several well-loved dishes, including the Mushroom Burger, Seared Ahi Tuna Salad, Spicy Cashew Chicken, White Chicken Chili, and Bistro Shrimp Pasta. The chain is also cutting its Factory Combinations, Petite Filet, Fried Shrimp Platter, and multiple breakfast options like the Loaded Mashed Potato Omelette. Additionally, two "SkinnyLicious" menu items, the Lemon Herb Parmesan Chicken and Spicy Shrimp Pasta, are being phased out. Despite these removals, the Cheesecake Factory isn’t downsizing its menu. In fact, it’s adding around 20 new dishes and drinks including cocktails and non-alcoholic “mocktails.” Some of the latest additions draw inspiration from viral TikTok trends like the Asian Cucumber Sala, while others take cues from fast-food competitors such as the Double Smash Burger. This menu refresh is part of what has helped the Cheesecake Factory remain a leader in the casual dining industry while many competitors struggle. While some diners may be disappointed by the removal of their favorite dishes, the Cheesecake Factory’s constant innovation ensures that customers will always have fresh options to explore. Bullied, Beaten and Betrayed by Administration: North Tonawanda Schools Part 12 Cheektowaga Cheesecake Factory Drops 13 Menu Items in Revamp

Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen and his fiancée, actress Hailee Steinfeld, took time out of their busy schedules to celebrate a special family milestone—Allen’s nephew’s second birthday. As the couple prepares for their upcoming wedding, which is set to take place on May 31st according to Allen’s teammate Dion Dawkins, they continue to balance work and personal life. Dawkins recently shared the exciting wedding news during an appearance on Good Morning Football , enthusiastically stating, "Josh Allen is one of those guys, and he sealed that deal. It’s happening." Allen, fresh off signing a historic six-year, $330 million contract with $250 million guaranteed, has also been enjoying an offseason filled with major milestones. In addition to his engagement, the 28-year-old quarterback was named the AP's Most Valuable Player at the NFL Honors. Meanwhile, Steinfeld has been focused on her career, launching her own canned margarita brand and promoting her upcoming film, Sinners. The couple made sure to join Allen’s family in Northern California for his nephew Kash’s birthday celebration. Allen’s sister, Nicala Madden, and her husband, Brayden Madden, hosted the party for their son, who turned two on March 22nd. Nicala shared heartwarming photos and videos from the event on Instagram, writing, "What a way to bring on year 2 with our sweet Kashy Boi! We all love this sweet boy so dang much! Thanks to everyone who celebrated with us today. Kash might not remember this day when he is older, but we will, and we have lots of photos to show how much fun was had!" Although Steinfeld has been spotted at high-profile events like the Vanity Fair Oscars Party, she and Allen had not been photographed together since early February at the NFL Honors. Just last week, Steinfeld expressed her excitement about their engagement in an interview with People Magazine, calling it, "such a special time for so many reasons. I couldn’t be more excited. I’m so happy—we’re so happy—and we’re just soaking in every moment." Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld Celebrate Nephew’s Birthday

A tragic incident unfolded in Niagara Falls in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 24th, which has now resulted in the arrest of a local woman after she fatally stabbed her mother. Authorities responded to an emergency call around 3:30am at an apartment on Main Street where they discovered an unresponsive woman on the floor. The victim, later identified as Genevieve Blackwell, was found at the scene alongside a detained suspect. Investigators revealed that a confrontation had taken place between 29-year-old Seleste Bomberry and her mother, which escalated into a violent altercation. During the dispute, Blackwell sustained fatal stab wounds. Responding officers attempted life-saving measures, but despite their efforts she was pronounced dead at the scene. Blackwell, described by family and friends as a devoted mother and grandmother, had recently moved back to Niagara Falls to be closer to her loved ones. In her memory, the Niagara Falls chapter of the Kingsmen M.C. will host a benefit event on April 19th at 5pm at 2410 Cudaback Avenue to support funeral and burial expenses. Bomberry has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the incident. Authorities urge anyone with information to reach out to the Niagara Falls Police Criminal Investigation Division at (716) 286-4553 or call the general information line at (716) 286-4711. Niagara Falls Woman Charged with Murdering her Mother

A 4-year-old boy tragically passed away on Thursday, March 20th after being discovered unresponsive, according to the Cheektowaga Police Department. Preliminary reports suggest that the child was found unresponsive in a private swimming pool. Authorities received a call around 4:30 p.m. on Constance Lane, prompting a swift response from police and local fire personnel, who initiated life-saving measures. The child was then transported to Oishei Children’s Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The Cheektowaga Police are currently conducting an investigation into the incident. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Investigation Underway Following Death of 4-year-old Investigation Underway Following Death of 4-Year-Old

On March 23, 2025, at approximately 3:30am, the Niagara Falls Police Department responded to an apartment at 1807 Main Street for a report of an incident of an assault with a weapon. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered an unresponsive female lying on the floor and a possible suspect that was detained. There was an altercation between family members that escalated into the assault and the victim being stabbed. Responding officers began life saving measures until they were relieved by medical personnel. The female victim was later pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives arrested and charged Seleste Bomberry, 29 of Niagara Falls with 2nd degree murder. Bomberry is scheduled to be arraigned in Niagara Falls City Court on Monday March 24th. The victim 's name is not being released at this time.  Detectives in the Criminal Investigation Division are asking anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Niagara Falls Police Criminal Investigation Division at (716) 286-4553 or the General Information number at (716) 286-4711. Niagara Falls Woman Killed During Domestic Altercation

Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8 Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner Witnesses Assault and Does Nothing: North Tonawanda Schools Part 9 Weaponizing Child Protective Services: North Tonawanda Schools Part 10 Former Principal Fisher Blamed My Son's Sexual Orientation for Death Threat: North Tonawanda Schools Part 11 Bullied, Beaten and Betrayed by Administration: North Tonawanda Schools Part 12 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . Email female graduate of the class of 2017 describes the system of cruelty allowed to fester in the district for years. As a 2017 graduate of North Tonawanda High School, I have witnessed some of the most unhinged and inexcusable behavior from students, teachers, and administrators. I’ve seen firsthand how bullying, violence, and reckless behavior have been allowed to run rampant, often dismissed as “kids being kids” or buried under the rug to protect the school’s reputation. No matter who has been in charge, the system has always seemed more concerned with maintaining appearances than actually protecting its students. The reality? North Tonawanda High School has been a breeding ground for unchecked cruelty, physical fights, and social toxicity for years. Based on the articles I have been reading, nothing has changed. This isn’t just about a few isolated incidents. It’s a deeply embedded issue within the school culture and even the community itself. I’ve watched my classmates grow up, yet some of them still act as though they never left high school; holding onto grudges from years ago, still bullying, still seeking drama, even as they build families of their own. Some of those affected by bullying throughout high school have turned to addiction, some have taken their own lives, and some have hurt others in irreversible ways. And while I can’t begin to understand their individual struggles, I do know that the lack of emotional support, conflict resolution, and real discipline in NT schools played a part in shaping who they became. Bullying in NT wasn’t just verbal; it was physical. It was mental. It was emotional and constant. It wasn’t limited to any one type of student. It spread like a disease, infecting even the “good kids,” warping their sense of right and wrong just so they could fit in. One of the clearest examples I can remember was a straight-A student, someone who I was close to and that had a bright future, succumbed to the pressure put on by others of being a bully. He was an athlete, a leader, and even had dreams of becoming an NFL coach. But in the hallways? He was spitting on people. Why? Because he thought it made him look cool. His mother worked as a bus driver for the school and she was one of the kindest, most caring women I had ever met. She would talk about him like he was an angel, completely unaware of the person he was becoming. That was NT for you, students who led double lives, pretending to be one person in front of adults while terrorizing their peers the moment authority turned its back. Although that last part is not completely true, sometimes it was even done in front of teachers or administrators and nothing was done. I can’t count how many fights broke out in the cafeteria, hallways, or outside near Ted’s Hot Dogs. These weren’t just petty shoving matches, they were violent, full-on brawls where kids were throwing punches, slamming each other into tables, and getting bloody just to prove who was stronger. They fought for status, revenge, or sometimes just because they were bored. If you weren’t fighting, you were expected to watch, record it, and spread it around.   Then there was the girl-on-girl bullying which was just as brutal in its own way. I remember a specific incident where a group of girls dumped an entire carton of milk over another girl’s head in the cafeteria. Why? She had stood up for herself and refused to engage in their drama. All it took was refusing to be their victim, and then they made her one anyone. And what did the school do? Nothing. No one faced consequences. No teacher stepped in. No suspensions, no interventions, not even a public acknowledgment that it had happened. That girl was left to wipe the milk off herself, humiliated in front of everyone. Just another day at NT. Even after I graduated, I continued to see the ripple effects of NT’s unchecked violence. I remember turning on the news and seeing that a group of middle schoolers had assaulted an elderly couple at McDonald’s near the high school. The worst part? I wasn’t even surprised. Drugs weren’t uncommon either. I recall rumors about students bringing stolen medication from their parents’ cabinets, passing it around like candy. Weed, pills, and alcohol, it was all there. Every once in a while the school would bring in police dogs to do a “search,” but it never changed anything. The reality is that NT schools never truly address these issues unless they are forced to. If something gets bad enough to make the news, they’ll make a show of “cracking down,” but it’s always just for appearances. A slap on the wrist, then it’s back to business as usual. I have no doubt that if you spoke to any NT graduate from 2010 to 2020, they would have even more stories, possibly worse ones. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Unchecked Bullying and Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 13

The former owner of the Rapids Theatre has confessed to committing fraud, having illicitly obtained over $1.8 million in COVID-19 relief funds through false loan applications, as announced by the United States District Attorney’s Office. John L. Hutchins, a Lewiston resident, pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy involving wire fraud and bank fraud. He could face a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine that may reach $1 million. The U.S. District Attorney’s Office reported that Hutchins, along with co-defendant Roberto Soliman, submitted fraudulent applications for loans under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG). Between March to August of 2020, they secured loans totaling: -$779,500 from five Economic Injury Disaster loans -$989,905 from SVOG loans -$115,978 from PPP loans The U.S. District Attorney’s Office stated that the loan applications contained falsified financial data. In November, the City of Niagara Falls acquired the Rapids Theatre after it was foreclosed. Originally opened in 1921 as Shea’s Bellevue Theatre, the venue has undergone various transformations, reopening as The Dome Theatre in 2004 before rebranding as The Rapids Theatre in 2009. Charges against Soliman are still pending, according to the U.S. District Attorney’s Office. Former Owner of Rapids Theatre Admits to $1.8 Million COVID Relief Fraud

One month after North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec came under fire for abusing his authority sending two armed police officers to question a political rival over a spoof Facebook page, the Police Department (“NTPD”), under the leadership of Chief Keith Glass, is following Tylec’s lead.   Two NTPD detectives, Michelle Day and Yanni Malamas, in what amounts to a shocking and potentially criminal abuse of their power, defied the direction of the Niagara County District Attorney’s Office (“DA’s Office) with a charging decision. Both NTPD detectives wanted to charge a person of interest ("POI") with sexual abuse of a minor. Not only did their case lack evidence, but there were several facts that weighed against bringing charges, including a history of mental health issues, lack of credibility and no physical evidence or corroboration.   Apart from the child’s history, over fifty pages of concerning messages were turned over which painted the picture of a girl utilizing self-harm and suicidal ideations for attention. But more importantly, clearly stating that there was no abuse. It was not only the lack of evidence alone that led the DA’s Office to decline prosecution, but the actions of NTPD Detectives Day and Malamas themselves. Their conduct, which included over 5+ interviews with the child and a decision made that amounted to kidnapping her after an interview with the Child Advocacy Center, created concerns of undue influence and perception of personal bias/motivation for charges to be brought – a trial issue that the DA’s Office would not likely overcome. The kidnapping incident will be the subject of a future story. An attorney confirmed this information after their conversation with an Assistant District Attorney who stated that NTPD’s actions in this case hampered their ability to prosecute it. In order to charge or indict someone with the criminal offense, the DA’s Office must believe – as is their ethical obligation – that they can prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. They did not believe that in this case with the charges Detectives Day and Malamas wanted brought, hence their direction for NTPD not to charge. The DA's Office was also aware that Child Protective Services (“CPS”) had put in place an interim safety plan for the child while they investigated the allegations themselves. CPS, similar to the DA’s Office not wanting to prosecute, declined to initiate an Article 10 proceeding in Family Court to remove the child based on abuse, neglect or maltreatment. Their case was being closed. A high-level source within the police department confirmed Detective Day’s and Malamas’ actions were without the approval of the DA’s Office. Specifically, that they were told not to charge and needed to back down. The same source stated that bending, if not breaking, the rules has been an ongoing problem with Detective Day and others in the NTPD. In the investigation discussed throughout this article, Detective Day and Malamas had a child sign a statement that was more than 10x as long as the original handwritten one completed by the child. The statement authored by Detective Day used words that a child would not know, containing events that were not only never mentioned in the handwritten statement, but contradictory to what was. No parent or guardian was present with the child when she was asked to sign the statement written by Detective Day, just a school guidance counselor. NTPD Detectives Day and Malamas would not be deterred from pursuing their own personal motivation for charging the POI. Around 5pm on Monday, March 17th, Detectives Day and Malamas took him into custody and transported him to NTPD headquarters for booking, processing, and to await arraignment by a judge.   The POI was never read his Miranda rights and he was denied a phone call for over nineteen hours while waiting in a NTPD jail cell. Officers and others made derogatory statements and taunted him saying things such as “you don’t scare me.” The same high-level source in the police department said that Detectives Day and Malamas had not even finished the charging paperwork when the POI was taken into custody. The source was clear that Detectives Day and Malamas arrested him the way they did out of revenge. The reason Detectives Day and Malamas would want revenge against the POI will be explained in a future article.   Regardless of the guilt or innocence of the POI, which Niagara Action is not speculating on at this time, it is clear that the NTPD has gone rogue. North Tonawanda Chief of Police Keith Glass did not respond to a request for comment. If you would like to share your own experience with the North Tonawanda Police Department, or any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  North Tonawanda Police Go Rogue, Defy Charging Decision by District Attorney’s Office

Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8 Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner Witnesses Assault and Does Nothing: North Tonawanda Schools Part 9 Weaponizing Child Protective Services: North Tonawanda Schools Part 10 Former Principal Fisher Blamed My Son's Sexual Orientation for Death Threat: North Tonawanda Schools Part 11 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . Email from a mother whose children were bullied, beaten and betrayed by those meant to protect them. As a mother, my number one job is to protect my children, but what happens when the very institution meant to educate and support them turns its back? When the place they should feel safe becomes a source of anxiety and pain? Both of my sons have experienced relentless bullying at North Tonawanda High School, to the point that I pulled both of them out. They both now rely on the Apex online learning program not because they wanted to, but because they had no other choice. The school and administration —the very people who should have stepped in and protected them— failed them time and time again. The Physical and Emotional Attacks My eldest son was a victim of repeated physical assaults, having been slapped, punched, and attacked multiple times. Some of these incidents were even caught on video. Despite proof in the hands of administrators of what he was enduring, nothing was done. He tried to seek help. I tried to seek help. Each time we were met with silence, indifference, or empty promises. Then came my younger son. He was an exceptional student and bright child who loved school and had plans for his future. Entering 9th grade he had a record of straight A’s, perfect attendance and excellent behavior. He was determined to succeed. That all changed because of one lie. One day, while walking through the crowded hallways, he accidentally bumped into a popular girl, causing her phone to drop. It was an innocent mistake, but she turned it into something far worse. In anger, she fabricated a claim that he had said something vile to her, words that I know he would never say. “I hope you get raped.” Her claim was a cruel and malicious lie. The school never did an investigation, questioned neutral witnesses or considered my son's character and history. No, they took her side and suspended him based solely on the testimony of her friends, individuals who had every reason to back up her false claim. I went to the school and pleaded with them to look into it further, to consider that my son would never say something so awful, but they refused. The decision had been made and damage done. Relentless Harassment and a School that Didn’t Care That one false accusation became fuel for the fire. My son became a target. He was bullied, harassed, and tormented for an entire year. He wasn’t just mocked but physically attacked. There were times when multiple students ganged up on him.   They didn’t just torment him at school, they also followed him home. Four of his bullies came all the way to our backyard chasing him. If we didn't have a gate, they might have caught him. They filmed themselves threatening him and shared it on Snapchat, turning their cruelty into entertainment. I called the school over and over again. I met with teachers, counselors, the principal. I begged for them to do something —to protect my son— but they wouldn't. Their response? “Well, it happened off school grounds, so there’s nothing we can do.” Punished for Protecting My Sons As my son’s mental health worsened and the bullying continued with no intervention, I made the only choice a mother could; I stopped forcing him to go to school. I refused to send him into a place where he was being tormented daily. The school then started calling about why he was starting to miss so many days of school. Their calls became more threatening about involving Child Protective Services if he did not show up. I contacted the school in tears several times. I was hopeful that the school would be understanding, but they were not. I told them about his declining mental health and how he has struggling with depression. I even disclosed to them how he had started self-harming. Their response? “He needs to show up. We’ll be extra aware of the situation.” Extra awareness. That’s all they could offer. Did they ask how they could help? Did they take accountability for failing to protect him? No. No action. No protection. Just meaningless words while my son suffered. Instead, they called Child Protective Services on me, reporting me for educational neglect. On three separate occasions they tried to punish me for keeping my son safe. Three separate times I had to endure investigations with strangers coming into my home, questioning my parenting, and making me feel like a criminal. Each time CPS found no wrongdoing and sent a letter clearing me. And yet, the school continued their harassment. They sent school officers to my home five different times to discuss truancy. They had officials come by, leaving notes demanding I contact them about his absences. Absences caused by their own failure to act. Ironically, it was a CPS worker—not the school—who actually helped get my son enrolled in the Apex online learning program. The same program the school never followed up on when I initially requested it. The Toll on My Children I look at my sons now and see the scars this experience has left. Not just the physical ones—the bruises and marks from being grabbed by the throat—but the emotional ones. The anxiety, fear, and betrayal from a system that should have protected them. North Tonawanda High School failed my sons. It failed to protect them. It failed to listen. It failed to take action, and when I tried to advocate for them, the school attacked me. No other child should have to endure what my sons went through. No other parent should have to fight just to keep their child safe. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Bullied, Beaten and Betrayed by Administration: North Tonawanda Schools Part 12

Photo Credit Danyelle Baker Osika A concerning situation in a Western New York town is causing anxiety among residents after reports of masked individuals illegally entering private properties in Erie County. In recent weeks, the community has experienced a rise in break-ins targeting homes and vehicles. However, this week has seen an alarming increase in sightings of masked figures moving through the area. A resident posted images on Facebook, some seemingly taken by a trail camera, that depict these individuals traversing yards in the neighborhood. The unsettling presence of these masked men has left residents feeling unsafe in their own homes. According to the Facebook update, police were contacted over the weekend regarding these incidents. Law enforcement has provided no updates regarding the incidents. Residents are urged to remain alert as a masked individual(s) dressed in black have been reported throughout Lancaster in the past week. They have been stealing cars, entering garages, and even breaking into homes to take items like purses and keys—all while people are present in their homes. Last week, a group of four masked men approached a driveway and stole two vehicles. This incident occurred near the high school around 7:30 in the morning, in broad daylight. Masked Individuals Breaking into Homes and Vehicles

Jill Lyons, Social Workers at North Tonawanda Middle School Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8 Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner Witnesses Assault and Does Nothing: North Tonawanda Schools Part 9 Weaponizing Child Protective Services: North Tonawanda Schools Part 10 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . Former North Tonawanda Principal James Fisher Fails to Protect a Homosexual Student After he Received a Death Threat at School My son Michael was barely 13-years-old when he realized he was different. I now realize, all these years later, the courage it took for him to share his secret with me. Overnight, Michael went from academic to survival mode, which is a common response to the harassment, intimidation, and bullying of GLBTQ youth in education. With no appropriate support or proper control procedures in the school setting to prevent the harassment, intimidation, and bullying of Michael, the child I knew was gone. Michael was thoughtful, happy and filled with life. He loved music and was a keyboard, saxophone and piano player. He participated in the arts as a talented actor. He was involved in school clubs. He was gifted vocally and selected for All County Music Voice 2002. He was tested at an IQ of 130 before 8th grade. This all disappeared and left an angry child. Bullying left him depressed, anxious and having lost his love for life. Bullying resulted in him contemplating self-harm. I removed Michael from North Tonawanda High School on October 12th, 2005, after he discovered a written death threat in his day planner. We met with Principal James Fisher regarding the death threat, but nothing was done. No one was held accountable. Sadly, this was not the first time Michael was subject to violence. No matter how many telephone conversations I had with various administrators and teachers, including Principal Fisher, the harassment, intimidation, and bullying against Michael was only escalating. Listening to Principal Fisher perceive my child as the "problem" for having received a death threat was infuriating. Michael’s tears as he was told by Principal Fisher that his sexual orientation was the issue was more than I could tolerate.   Principal Fisher refused to file a report with the North Tonawanda Police Department, which was actually required by NYS Education Law and CNTSD Board of Education Policies and Procedures. He declined to do so even after I pointed out his obligation to do so. I filed a complaint of aggravated harassment with the Police Department after the close of school that day. The following day I notified Principal Fisher that Michael would not be returned to school until an investigation was completed to my satisfaction by both the high school administration and the Police Department. No such investigation was done. After this time, there were several falsely reported CPS calls alleging educational neglect all because I would not send Michael back to a school where death threats were not taken seriously.   Michael's story is a telling example of total and criminal disregard for students at North Tonawanda Schools. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Former Principal Fisher Blamed My Son's Sexual Orientation for Death Threat: North Tonawanda Schools Part 11

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 2600 block of Pine Avenue, Shorty’s Restaurant and Bar, around 6:30/7pm on March 17th for a fight. While en route, dispatch advised that a large group of individuals were outside of the restaurant fighting in the roadway. Upon arrival, officers observed approximately 50 individuals standing in the roadway arguing with each other. Officers gave all individuals multiple commands to disperse out of the roadway with no success. At this point, officers deployed PepperBall capsules onto the roadway, saturating the general area where the individuals were refusing to disperse. Officers continued ordering participants to disperse the area at which time they started pepper spraying people. During the incident, two individuals were taken into custody. Officers spoke with the owners of Shorty’s who explained that they have a Sunday brunch event that takes place every Sunday. This event ends approximately at 6pm each week at which point all patrons are asked to leave the premises. On today’s date, the individuals who were asked to leave all began to congregate in the parking lot. The one owner stated that she has three security guards present every Sunday to assist with dispersing parties, which was unsuccessful today. Once the fight broke out, she locked the entrance doors so no one could re-enter. Both arrested parties were transported to police headquarters for booking and processing.  No further information is available at this time. Police Deploy PepperBalls and Pepper Spray to Break Up 50-person Brawl

Niagara Falls Police were contacted by a TJ Maxx employee around 2:50pm on March 15th  who stated that two black females had just exited the store without paying for merchandise and got into the front seats of a maroon sedan with tinted windows. Officers observed a vehicle matching the description exiting the parking lot and turning westbound on Niagara Falls Boulevard. The officer initiated a traffic stop at 70th Street on a maroon Chrysler Sedan. The employee responded to the officers’ location and positively identified the vehicle. The driver identified herself but did not have any identification. The front seat passenger identified herself as Kenaiya White, but this was shortly thereafter found to be a fake name. Both parties exited the vehicle and were placed in handcuffs. An orange purse was found inside of the vehicle which the TJ Maxx employee stated she had seen the items being placed into. Both parties were transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. The driver was released with an appearance ticket. The front seat passenger was held for a warrant through Genesee County. No further information is available at this time. TJ Maxx Shoplifters' Getaway Plan Fails

Rachel Wagner, Assistant Principal at North Tonawanda High School On Sunday March 16th, 2025, the New York State Police in Lockport conducted an underage drinking detail in Niagara and Erie County. The following arrests were made for serving alcohol to minors: Georgia A. Thompson, age 25, of Youngstown, NY was arrested for selling alcohol to a minor. Thompson is a bartender at Slick Willie’s in the Town of Tonawanda. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the town of Tonawanda Court on 04/03/25. Lauren N. Dangelo, age 22, of Buffalo, NY was arrested for selling alcohol to a minor. Dangelo is a bartender at Tully’s in the Town of Amherst. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the town of Amherst Court on 04/15/25. Kevin M. Ryan, age 52, of Lockport, NY was arrested for selling alcohol to a minor. Ryan is a bartender at Back Alley Bar and Grill in the Town of Pendleton. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the town of Pendleton Court on 04/16/25. Niagara and Erie County Arrests for Serving Alcohol to Minors St. Patrick's Day Weekend

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 900 block of Cedar Avenue around 8am on March 14th after reports of an argument that later changed to a larceny. Upon arrival, officers encountered a male and female arguing. The female was saying that the male had stole her television, Roku, and laptop. The male kept repeating that he didn’t know what she was talking about. Both parties told police that they lived there. Police learned that the male is the actual tenant. The female had moved in several months before with her then-boyfriend, but he left more than a month ago and she stayed. After going back and forth with the parties, the male admitted to police that he stole her television because he was mad at her. He disclosed that the items were taken to his sister’s house. However, he maintained he knew nothing about the laptop. The female wished to pursue charges and the male was taken into custody. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing where he was issued an appearance ticket. No further information is available at this time. Roommate Dispute Ends with Arrest for Stealing a TV

Jill Lyons, Social Workers at North Tonawanda Middle School Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8 Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner Witnesses Assault and Does Nothing: North Tonawanda Schools Part 9 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . A MOTHER RECOUNTS HAVING CPS CALLED ON HER SEVERAL TIMES AMID CONSTANT CONFLICT WITH ADMINISTRATION North Tonawanda Schools were an absolute nightmare for my kids. I have been hesitant about whether to share my story or not out from fear of retaliation from the biggest bully in the district; middle school social worker Jill Lyons. She uses CPS as a weapon, which from my conversations with caseworkers and her own co-workers is well known. I was amazed at how many parents talked about this at meetings. Lyons’ bullying began with my kids in middle school. Her one son is the same age as my child and the issue started on the sports field. Lyons overstepped her bounds and made sure her kid was cleared of everything. Not too long after, the police showed up at our home because Lyons’ son was taking pictures from my Facebook and photoshopping it to look like my child was making school threats. Detectives knocked on our door one Sunday with screenshots of messages that included a school threat of mass harm. Fortunately, they could tell it was photoshopped and wanted to know if we had any idea who was behind it. Lyons’ son and another boy created the photoshopped threat. This was confirmed when the other boy texted my son admitting that he and Lyons’ son created it because they “thought it was funny.” He apologized, and we heard later on that he stayed away from Lyons’ son after that. Although he didn’t make the school threat, that didn’t stop Lyons’ kid from spreading the rumor, which resulted in a terrible nickname for my son. My son was jumped on his way home from school and the other kids filmed it. The kid was a couple years younger than my son, but knew the same things that Lyons’ son had been saying to him. My son had never met this person before, nor ever talked to him. My son found out afterward the the kid who assaulted him was connected to Lyons' son. The aggressor was allegedly expelled from school. We couldn’t even get the assistant principal to contact the teacher that witnessed the attack because “teachers are too busy for this.” He is now the principal.   Regarding the bullying that my son experienced, the information Lyons’ son used to harass, belittle, and torment him were things only known to teachers/staff. The only thing I’ve been able to come up with is that Lyons must talk about students at home which gives her son the information he needs to go after other kids. Lyons knew that I was consistently making complaints to the school about her son. It should come as no surprise that someone at the school started making CPS calls. There were several, and at no time prior to my son being bullied by Lyons’ son did I ever have CPS show up at my house. Fortunately, I am very organized and keep everything documented. Regardless of what the allegation was, I had everything necessary to show CPS that there was no neglect, maltreatment or abuse. On one of the occasions I remember a female caseworker saying, “I hate when the district does this, but we are legally bound to investigate.” One positive thing that did come of it was that one of the caseworkers advised me to call SEQA (State Education Quality Assurance) regarding violations to my child’s IEP. The state did say there were violations, but not enough to take action on.  There are other parents who have had similar experiences with Lyons’ son. He was big into soccer and I heard from another parent that he kicked a soccer ball so hard at a teammate – who wasn’t paying attention because the game/practice was finished – that he sustained permanent damage to the teammate’s eye, essentially ending his ability to play sports. The local soccer team disbanded because players had enough of Lyons’ son and he was forced to join a team in another city, at least that’s what I was told.  I’m not sure if I sound like I’m rambling but six years of this tends to make you feel upset and angry. I have seen enough of social service caseworkers to last me a lifetime. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Weaponizing Child Protective Services: North Tonawanda Schools Part 10

Niagara Action recently published an article after being contacted by a former employee of North Tonawanda City Hall informing our publication of abuses of power and corruption within various municipal departments. Click headline below to read prior story: Former City Employee Comes Forward to Expose Misconduct in North Tonawanda Since that time, several additional sources, including a current employee, have come forward with further allegations. These new claims point to a disturbing pattern of overreach, cover-ups, and potential malfeasance in the North Tonawanda Police Department and Mayor’s Office. One of the most alarming allegations involves a former North Tonawanda police officer and an unreported high-speed chase. According to a source who has spoken to Niagara Action, this incident and involved the officer allegedly driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. The officer, whose identity is known to Niagara Action but will remain confidential at this time, faced no reprimand or charges for driving while intoxicated, or any related traffic violations. He has since retired from the North Tonawanda Police Department. The source claims that on the night of the incident, the officer, under the influence, left his home in his personal vehicle. His wife then reportedly contacted fellow police officers who engaged in a pursuit. The chase allegedly began on Robinson Street, continued into Tonawanda, crossed a bridge to Niagara Falls Boulevard, and ended in the St. Christopher's School parking lot. At no time during the chase did the officer comply with lawful commands to stop. The informant alleges that the officer, contemplating self-harm, was eventually taken home after a "stand down" involving other officers. The situation escalated, leading his wife to remove herself and their children from the home. While the officer reportedly faced internal repercussions, including a reassignment to an inside position, the incident was allegedly swept under the rug due to his position within the police department. He was later asked to retire to protect his benefits. When confronted with these allegations, Mayor Tylec reportedly feigned ignorance, claiming he had only heard rumors but was unaware of the details. These allegations raise serious questions about accountability, corruption, and abuse of power within the North Tonawanda Police Department and, by extension, the Mayor's office. Niagara Action is committed to investigating these claims thoroughly and bringing them to the attention of the appropriate authorities to ensure transparency for the citizens of North Tonawanda. We encourage individuals with information pertaining to these allegations, as well as any other instances of corruption involving City Hall or the North Tonawanda Police Department, to email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .   Former Employee Exposes North Tonawanda Police Coverup of Drunken Chase with Off-duty Cop

Rachel Wagner, Assistant Principal at North Tonawanda High School Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . STORY OF CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT WHO WAS BULLIED, ASSAULTED IN FRONT OF ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AND NOTHING WAS DONE (TOLD BY HER COUSIN) My cousin, who goes to North Tonawanda High School, gave me permission to share her story. She was best friends with a girl who recorded her changing and send it to a bunch of people. As you can imagine, they were not friends afterward. This girl constantly harassed my cousin starting in 8th grade, which then continued into 9th. She spread terrible rumors about her. To make matters worse, her mother screamed profanities at my cousin and taunted her about a tragic family incident that was told to her former best friend, and now bully, in confidence. Her mother yelling at my cousin was done in front of the school and within earshot of dozens of students. The former best friend also teamed up with a 19-year-old girl who threatened to jump my cousin. She reported the situation to Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner SEVERAL TIMES. My aunt called the school about it and the most they were able to do was get a “no contact order,” which they also referred to as a “cease and desist” and a “school restraining order.” This happened while my cousin was in 9th grade. The document, which was signed by both students without the knowledge or consent of a parent, was a valid contract according to the school, which meant that you could be suspended for violating it. The document was meant to keep my cousin and her former best friend on different floors. Shocker, it didn’t work. Administration did force her to write my cousin an apology letter, which was one sentence long. During Lumberfest, my cousin was left alone while friends went to go get food. Within a few minutes, the former best friend was pushing her and screaming at her, accusing my cousin of saying something to her brother. When she was shoved, my cousin’s phone was slapped out of her hand, fell on the ground, and broke. This occurred DIRECTLY in front of Assistant Principal Wagner. Not only was she not disciplined, but she was permitted to play in the powderpuff game, which is a flag football game.   My cousin went up to Assistant Principal Wagner and reiterated what happened. She asked why the girl was still playing in the powderpuff game even though she got into a fight earlier that day and harassed a student. Assistant Principal Wagner looked and her and said, “life isn't fair,” that there’s “nothing she can do about it,” and that my cousin needs to “suck it up [because] that’s how high school works.” These are things a principal should never say to a student, let alone the victim of bullying. There were multiple police reports filed before the incident that Assistant Principal Wagner witnessed at Lumberfest. The police did get involved with one rather egregious bullying incident that occurred while my cousin was in 8th grade and the former best friend had to do community service due to a court order. I can’t go into detail, but the girl bullying my cousin broke the law and it was horrific the boundaries she crossed. Despite knowing the history between my cousin and this other student, the school and Assistant Principal Wagner did not take my cousin seriously when she sought protection several times prior to the Lumberfest incident. Assistant Principal Wagner witnessed the bullying and assault herself, yet failed to act. She is no better than the girl who bullied my cousin. My aunt did go to the police regarding the assault at Lumberfest, but the police said nothing could be done due to the lack of quality video footage on surveillance cameras at the school.   If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner Witnesses Assault and Does Nothing: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8

Ryan Mountain, North Tonawanda High School Gym Teacher, Sports Coach Residents of Niagara Falls can expect some relief - albeit not enough - from toxic air pollution as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has approved new pollution control measures for the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Chemical Plant. These measures are scheduled to be implemented by April 10th and aim to reduce emissions of ortho-toluidine, a known carcinogen. The approval follows a consent order issued in January after the DEC discovered that Goodyear was violating its air pollution permit. The plant was releasing ortho-toluidine at levels seven times higher than the state's guidelines. This chemical, used in tire production to prevent cracking, poses serious health risks including skin and eye irritation in addition to having carcinogenic properties. As part of the new plan, Goodyear will decrease its production of antioxidant products by 40% and install an air pollution control system on an elimination tank. This system is expected to reduce ortho-toluidine emissions by a factor of three. However, even with this reduction emissions may still exceed state health guidelines for the toxin. Local activists have expressed concerns that the measures approved by the state are insufficient. They argue that the safety of the proposed changes has not been adequately demonstrated. While the new pollution control measures are a step forward, the DEC has not mandated that Goodyear conduct stack testing to verify the effectiveness of these measures. Stack testing, which measures the levels of toxins released into the air, will occur only after Goodyear installs permanent pollution control systems, which are required to be in place by October 31st, 2026. Previous stack testing conducted in November 2022 revealed that Goodyear was emitting ortho-toluidine at concentrations of up to 0.14 micrograms per cubic meter, which is significantly above the state's health-based limit of 0.02 micrograms per cubic meter. The new plan indicates that emissions could still reach up to 0.05 micrograms per cubic meter even after the implementation of the new controls. New Control Measures to Limit Toxic Emissions at Goodyear Plant in Niagara Falls

Photo Credit Warbirds and Airshows The Bell Aerospace building in Niagara Falls is slated for demolition, signaling the end of a significant chapter in Western New York's aviation history. Once a center for innovative flight technology, the building's future remains uncertain as plans for its removal are still being finalized. Lindsey Visser, executive director of the Niagara Aerospace Museum, said that the aging structure requires extensive repairs and its location near Niagara Falls International Airport restricts potential redevelopment options. Despite the impending loss of this landmark, Visser reassured that the spirit of aviation in Western New York is far from diminished. At its height, Bell Aerospace employed approximately 110,000 people in the region. Although the company has since relocated, the museum has worked to preserve essential artifacts from its legacy including research archives, factory models, and Larry Bell's original conference table, which now serves as a prominent feature in the museum. While the office building may be coming down, experts believe that the most significant elements of Bell Aerospace's legacy will continue to endure. Although this is a loss for the community, it allows for new development near the Niagara Falls Airport. Bell Aerospace Building in Niagara Falls Slated for Demolition

Ryan Mountain, North Tonawanda High School Gym Teacher, Sports Coach Walmart is seeking approval for a site plan to expand its operations on Military Road, more than ten years after opening its store in Niagara Falls. The retail giant has submitted requests for site plan reviews to both the Niagara County and Niagara Falls planning boards. The Niagara County board is set to discuss Walmart's proposal during its meeting on Monday. The expansion plan, which is also on the agenda for the Falls planning board's Wednesday night session, has been submitted by Colliers Engineering on behalf of the Walmart Real Estate Trust. The proposed site plan includes a 6,421-square-foot addition to the existing 202,549-square-foot Walmart store located at 1540 Military Road. In addition to the store expansion, the proposal outlines plans for associated improvements including grading, striping, and signage enhancements on the 18.3-acre site, which also houses a Sam’s Club. Walmart Seeks Approval for Major Expansion on Military Road in Niagara Falls

Ryan Mountain, North Tonawanda High School Gym Teacher, Sports Coach Niagara Falls Police responded to the 600 block of 77th Street around 12:30pm on March 11th after reports of a suspicious vehicle. Upon arrival, officers observed a female sleeping behind the wheel while the vehicle was running, in drive, and in the middle of the roadway blocking traffic. Officers woke the female up by banging on the vehicle window. She was startled, disoriented and started pressing random buttons on her dashboard. The female eventually placed the vehicle in park and opened the window. She told police, “I fell asleep because I was tired.” The female stated she was on her way to Verizon to pick her husband up from work. Officers asked the female to exit the vehicle to make sure she was capable of operating it. While the female was exiting the vehicle, officers observed what appeared to be several hypodermic needles scattered across the seats and floor. She was observed to have a large, open cut on her arm that she repeatedly scratched at. Officers also noted that she was missing several teeth. The female was then asked if she would consent to standardized field sobriety testing, to which she consented. Before starting the HGN test, the female stated to officers that she was on Suboxone and smoked crack the previous night. Officer Kinney conducted the Standardized Field Sobriety Testing. Testing clues were as follows: HGN: Lack of smooth pursuit, distinct and sustained nystagmus at maximum deviation. The female continued to nod off during the test and repeatedly moved her head and not her eyes. Walk and Turn: Could not keep balance, stopped walking, missed heel to toe, stepped of the line, raised arms, and improper turn. The female began the test multiple times and then stopped the test after turning and complained of leg pain.   One-leg stand: This test was not conducted as Schultz complained that her legs were in pain. Officer Bond conducted the finger count test, which the female used the wrong hand and failed the test. Officer Bond also conducted the alphabet test, which the female was able to pass. The female was taken into custody and read her Miranda Rights and DWI refusal warnings at 12:54pm. However, she did consent to a blood and urine sample kit at the hospital. She was then transported to police headquarters at 1925 Main Street for booking and processing. No further information is available at this time. Woman Falls Asleep at the Wheel in Middle of Roadway with Needles Everywhere

Ryan Mountain, North Tonawanda High School Gym Teacher, Sports Coach Niagara Falls Police were dispatched to an apartment complex on the 8200 block of Krull Parkway around 8:20am on March 6th after reports of a suspect with a knife attempting to break down the neighbor’s door. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the female 911 caller whose apartment was only a few feet away from another apartment the suspected was breaking into. Officers advised her to take shelter somewhere safe inside of the dwelling. Officers then went to the back of the complex where officers told the male suspect to come outside with his hands above his head. He complied and was placed in handcuffs. Officers observed the wooden door of a rear apartment to be damaged. While speaking with him, he was making statements such as, “I’m going to ruin your night, I’m having a strike. Wait no I’m having a heart attack.” Based on these complaints, Niagara Falls Fire met officers at police headquarters. The suspect was then transported to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. The male is believed to have been charged with criminal mischief and menacing 2nd with a weapon. No further information is available at this time. Female Tenant Calls Police as Male Breaks through Apartment Door with a Knife

Mrs. Everts, North Tonawanda Middle School After a remarkable 19-year run, Dragonfly nightclub at Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort has officially closed. The popular dance venue hosted its final event on March 1st following an announcement of its closure in February. Located on the lower level of the casino, Dragonfly was known for its vibrant atmosphere and drew large crowds, especially on weekends. In a farewell message on Facebook, the club expressed gratitude to its patrons, stating, “From the dance floor to the DJ booth, from the VIP booths to the main stage, every night was a story, and you were the ones who made it special.” Since the closure, the venue has remained empty with no signs indicating its status. However, INK Entertainment Group, the Toronto-based owner, has promised that a new concept will soon take over the space. Spokesperson Lisa Persaud shared, “While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, we’re excited to announce that, in the coming months, we’ll be introducing a new concept that reflects the evolving hospitality and nightlife scene in the region.” No specific timeline for the new establishment has been provided and Fallsview Casino has also stated that they have no further information at this time. Dragonfly opened shortly after the casino in 2004 and quickly became a key player in the local nightlife scene. The club was particularly known for its strict dress code and lively atmosphere, attracting a young crowd eager to experience its offerings. Throughout its history, Dragonfly hosted numerous notable performances including a pre-fame Lady Gaga in 2008 and local EDM sensation Deadmau5 in 2009 just as he was gaining international recognition. In their closing message, the company thanked Dragonfly’s patrons, stating, “Your memories, energy, and loyalty will forever be a part of Dragonfly’s legacy, and we can’t wait to share this exciting new chapter with you.” Dragonfly Nightclub Closes Its Doors After Nearly Two Decades in Niagara Falls

Ryan Mountain, North Tonawanda High School Gym Teacher, Sports Coach Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives/allegations from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . EMAIL FROM FEMALE STUDENT WHO LEFT NORTH TONAWANDA HIGH SCHOOL DURING FRESHMAN YEAR IN 2022 I am reaching out to share more information about the problems faced by students in the North Tonawanda School District. Before I share my terrible experience at North Tonawanda High School, I would like to say I truly appreciate your team speaking up about this issue. That school was so bad I had to drop out due to safety concerns. I've thought about writing articles to expose the awful behaviors of teachers, staff and administrators several times, but did not have the courage. Seeing others come forward has helped me feel confident enough to do so now. My freshman year at North Tonawanda High School was in 2022. I had no idea how terrible it was and how different the kids are here compared to my hometown. Even the teachers and administrators were absolutely horrible. Specifically, I had a terrible experience with Principal Bradley Rowles, Assistant Principal Rachel Wagner, and Ryan Mountain (gym teacher for grades 9 and 10). Bullying There was a group of 8 or 9 girls, all athletes and cheerleaders, who decided to spread a rumor around the school that I said a slur solely because they didn't like my friends. They would trip me down stairs, they would scream names at me in the hallways, they would yell and say "you're f**king dead" and repeatedly threaten violence. They would also post about me online, which I showed to Principal Rowles and Assistant Principal Wagner. Each day they would try to make my life hell, and it worked. I begged every person of authority to change my class schedule and do something about it, but nobody did anything. I was distracted and behind on work in my classes because of the stress. Fortunately, I started to stay after school to do my work with the one teacher who cared about my success and well-being. The bullying then followed me to those after school sessions. For some unknown reason, these girls started hanging around the halls after dismissal and began following me to my after-school class. One ran up behind me and tripped me down the stairs. I had to run to my class just to get away from them. Then they started walking by the classroom in a group that got bigger and bigger each time they passed. I finally said something to the teacher and she sent out an email to the principals. They said the most they could do was “escort me out of the school.” Principal Rowles later told my mom that they couldn't discipline the female students for their behavior and would not tell them to leave the building, despite the fact it was after school hours. The fact that they were literally threatening to kill me – IN WRITING – was not enough for administration to act. After this, my mom pulled me out and put me in homeschooling. I never went back.    Predatory and Inappropriate Behavior Worse than the bullying were the teachers and staff that exhibited worrisome and despicable behavior. While attending the high school, I would constantly see the gym teacher Ryan Mountain go in and out of the girl's locker room after female students went in there to change. I didn't think anything weird about it until my friend went in to change her clothes and I saw him go in after her. My friend told me immediately after that he just stood there and watched as she took her hoodie and shirt off, exposing her breasts, before putting on new clothes. The gym and other areas of the school either have no cameras or very low-quality cameras. If you look at their security footage you can literally count each pixel. Behavior like this is not seen or caught and goes unnoticed by administrators. Even when told of these events, they seldom take action. If they do, it’s inadequate. I went and told my counselor who was super sweet/supportive what I witnessed and what my friend told me. I think she truly did everything possible to help. There was a small investigation done by Principal Rowles. Afterward, Mr. Mountain was gone for 2 weeks and then returned. I wasn’t surprised, Mr. Mountain is their golden child for his sports accolades. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Gym Teacher Ryan Mountain Watching Girls Change: North Tonawanda Schools Part 8

Stock Photo, credit WGRZ On Thursday, March 13th, a section of the Lake Erie ice boom was successfully removed from the upper rapids above Niagara Falls. The feat is thanks to the collaboration between the New York State Park Police’s swift water rescue team and the New York Power Authority (NYPA). The operation involved using a crane to lift the 3,800-pound pontoon from the water near the pedestrian bridge at Goat Island. Officers from the State Park Police entered the water to secure the pontoon to the crane's lift cable, allowing for a careful extraction from the rapids. This retrieval was not only aimed at recovering NYPA property but also addressed significant public safety concerns. The pontoon's precarious position made it susceptible to being dislodged by increased water flow or strong winds, which could have led to it cascading over the Bridal Veil Falls, endangering visitors at the nearby Cave of the Winds attraction. If that scenario was to happen, the force of the ice boom would smash through all wooden walkways in its path, including any tourists on them. There would be very little chance for survival. Removal of Ice Boom Pontoon from Niagara Falls' Upper Rapids

Mrs. Everts, North Tonawanda Middle School Situated in the historic post office building at 1 East Street, the second Big Ditch Brewery has officially opened its doors in Lockport. This new establishment boasts a spacious taproom and brewery, accommodating up to 250 patrons across two levels. Guests can enjoy a bar area, an outdoor patio, and private event spaces. Additionally, a small brewing facility will be dedicated to crafting unique beers, allowing visitors to sample fresh creations. Matt Kahn, president and co-founder of Big Ditch, expressed enthusiasm about the new location, stating, “Lockport has a vibrant history, a strong community spirit, and an increasing appetite for quality beer and food. Conversations with local officials last year made it clear that this was the right time for Big Ditch to set up shop here.” The original Big Ditch Brewery has been operating on East Huron Street in Buffalo since 2015. The Lockport site is separate from earlier plans for a location on Transit Road in Williamsville, which faced delays due to the pandemic. Kahn mentioned that while the Transit Road project is not currently a priority, it remains a possibility for the future. The new Lockport brewery will operate from 4 pm to 10pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; 11am to 11pm on Fridays; 12pm to 11pm on Saturdays; and 12pm to 8pm on Sundays. It will be closed on Tuesdays. New Big Ditch Brewery Opens in Lockport

Mrs. Everts, North Tonawanda Middle School A tragic car accident in Lancaster claimed the life of 7-year-old Noah Whitmore on Tuesday afternoon, leaving his family devastated. Authorities reported that the accident occurred around 2:50pm near Broadway, in the vicinity of Bowen Road and Towne Square Drive. A vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a tree. Emergency responders transported young Noah to the hospital where he succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident. Noah was a second-grade student at Cayuga Heights Elementary School. In response to the tragedy, Interim Superintendent of Depew Union Free Schools, Jeffrey Rabey, expressed his condolences and assured that a crisis response team is available to provide support for students and staff. By Wednesday, members of the community had begun to visit the crash site leaving heartfelt tributes such as flowers and teddy bears in Noah’s memory. His mother, Carly Benavides, created a Facebook group dedicated to sharing cherished memories and photos of her son. In her post, she wrote: “It would mean more than you can imagine to be able to see and treasure the moments of his sweet but short life, so we can be reminded of how precious life is, and how we should never take a single moment for granted.” Noah leaves behind his mother, father, 5-year-old sister Lilah, and his grandfather, Elias Benavides. Reflecting on his grandson, Elias described Noah as a joyful and humorous child who brought endless laughter to those around him. Carly, who works as a registered nurse at Buffalo General Medical Center, received the heartbreaking call while she was at work. Police confirmed that the driver of the vehicle, a 29-year-old man, is cooperating with the investigation. No charges had been filed as of Thursday. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the accident to contact Lancaster Police at (716) 683-2800 extension 223. To help support Noah’s family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe was created to support the family. If you would like to donate, you can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-carly-benavides-and-family-after-loss-of-son-noah A vigil in Noah’s honor will take place at 7:15pm Thursday at 5849 Broadway where all community members are welcome to pay their respects. Community Mourns Loss of 7-year-old Noah

North Tonawanda is moving forward with plans for Tonawanda Island as VisoneCo prepares to establish the island's first residential complex. The proposed "Bridge Street Landing" project, located at 78 Bridge Street, will consist of a three-story, 100,430 square-foot mixed-use building featuring 73 market-rate apartments, seven vacation rental units, and commercial space along the waterfront. The residential units will primarily include one and two bedroom apartments, along with a few three bedroom, and studio, options. Earlier this month, the North Tonawanda City Council approved the sale of the land for $389,000, having selected VisoneCo as the preferred developer in January, ahead of competing proposals from Savarino Development and Nostra Development. The total investment for the project is projected to be $21.9 million with the first residents expected to move in by the summer of 2028. The 3.3-acre site is the only city-owned land on the island, which has previously served various functions, including firefighter training, lumber storage, and boat storage. The city’s vision for the area emphasizes high-density mixed-use development, as outlined in its Request for Proposals, the Brownfield Opportunity Program, and its master plan. Currently, Tonawanda Island lacks any residential properties although it does feature the Shores Waterfront Restaurant, boat launches, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. City officials believe that residential development is crucial for enhancing the island's vibrancy. They noted that while downtown revitalization efforts have progressed there is a need to create connections between these developments and the waterfront. As part of a $10 million allocation from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, $750,000 will be dedicated to enhancing the riverside area of the site creating a public benefit space that will be accessible to all, not just residents of Bridge Street. As city attorneys finalize the sale, VisoneCo will proceed with applying for state assistance through the Brownfield Cleanup Program, without seeking funding from the state Department of Homes and Community Renewal.   If all goes according to plan, construction on Bridge Street Landing could begin in June 2026 with the project expected to receive its occupancy certificate by June 2028. North Tonawanda Approves Sale of Island Land for New Apartment Development

New York State Police have arrested two juveniles from Lockport following an investigation into gunfire that erupted from a home in the Town of Lockport on Friday night. Authorities received multiple reports of gunshots around 9:30pm on Lockwood Drive. Upon investigation, it was revealed that a 16-year-old had discharged several rounds from a 16-gauge shotgun while standing on the porch of a residence. Both the 16-year-old and a 15-year-old were arrested during the incident. It was reported that three troopers sustained minor injuries while apprehending the younger juvenile. The two were then taken to the State Police barracks in Lockport for processing. The charges filed against the juveniles include illegal discharge of a firearm, three counts of second-degree assault, second-degree reckless endangerment, and second-degree obstruction of governmental administration. They received appearance tickets for Niagara County Family Court and were released to the care of an adult. Two Niagara County Teens Arrested After Shots Fired from Home

A devastating car accident on Broadway in Lancaster claimed the life of a 7-year-old boy on Tuesday afternoon. According to police, the incident occurred around 2:50pm near the intersection of Broadway, Bowen Road, and Towne Square Drive. Reports indicate that a vehicle veered off the roadway and collided with a tree. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and the young boy was transported to a nearby hospital. Sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities identified the driver as a 29-year-old man who remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. As of Wednesday morning, no charges had been filed in connection with the incident. The Lancaster Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward with information. Witnesses can contact police at (716) 683-2800 ext 223. No further information is available at this time.   7-year-old Boy Dies after Vehicle Crashes into Tree in Erie County

Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2 (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3 (video of physical altercation included) After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . EMAIL FROM SISTER OF SPECIAL EDICATION STUDENT AT NORTH TONAWANDA HIGH SCHOOL My 14-year-old brother with special needs was locked in a bathroom at North Tonawanda High School in 2022 and beaten by another student with developmental disabilities. There were several older students – ages 16-17 – guarding the bathroom door, and three or four inside of the bathroom recording the fight. You could tell because of multiple older voices in the videos. My brother was targeted due to his disability. The older students in the video decided for whatever reason to pick on him, referring to him as a “retard” and other vulgar names. My brother, due to his disability, did not understand a lot of what was happening other than that these students were being mean to him. He did not know why they were saying the things they were. This caused a lot of emotional and psychological problems for him on top of what he already deals with on a daily basis. It broke my heart to see each day. The bathroom video can be watched below in its entirety: Throughout the recording you can hear the older teenagers coaching the other special needs student on what to do to my brother. The fight was recorded by the 16-17 year olds. “Round two, round two. Ding ding ding. Beat him up, beat him up. Yo, knock him out. Beat his as*,” you can hear the older students saying. “Hit him in the face,” said one. “Make him drink out the urinal,” you could hear another student say. The video ends with my brother on the ground writhing in pain, crying.   The school administrator tasked with handling the situation was former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross. She decided to suspend my brother and the other special needs student for three days each. My brother did not want to fight anyone. He was locked in a bathroom by older students and forced to defend himself while they directed the other child to punch him, kick him, and shove his head in a urinal. He tried to leave and they would not let him. Yet despite that, Assistant Principal Ross decided that he was at fault and suspended him too. She suspended the victim of an assault. Before all of this took place, my brother went to teachers and administrators reporting the bullying. Nothing was done. As far as I knew at the time, the older students who recorded the fight were not suspended. My brother walked away from that experience with bruised and bloodied. He has been afraid to be in bathrooms at the High School since this took place. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Watch as Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4

Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . MOTHER OF BULLY WANTED DAUGHTER SUSPENDED FOR TASING STUDENT Unbeknownst to me, when my daughter started high school in North Tonawanda she became a bully along with a group of her friends. The group at one point lured a girl into a home and tased her. I was baffled to learn that the school kicked out the child who was assaulted. I begged the school to punish my daughter for her actions, yet the school did nothing. We had court as a result of her actions and the judge was going to hold me in contempt for taking away her cellphone. Then she kept leaving the house and the court said I had no right to lock her in her room to prevent her from leaving at night. It was six years of hell trying to get my daughter under control, but all other entities such as the school, CPS and court refused to punish her. Each of them gave my daughter control and green light to keep doing whatever she wanted.   She continued to bully, and the school continued to not hold her accountable. I can only imagine the emotional pain she created as the number of victims she created grew over her time at the high school. She bullied people's weight, sexual orientation, physical appearance, and more. Several students complained about her to administrators and nothing was ever done. In her four years at the high school she had 86 infractions and the administration did nothing.  Instead, they reinforced the behavior by showing her that there would be consequences for her actions. There were parents who would contact me through social media or phone threatening to beat me up because of my daughter’s bullying. Many of them I ended up sitting down with to try and explain what was happening behind the scenes. Sometiems it helped, other times it did not.   During her senior year, my daughter missed 89 days of school and never did assignments. The school could have cared less! They faked her grades and community service to get her graduated and out of the school. Fast forward to now, my daughter is a productive, well-mannered mom. She is thriving and even about to buy a home. She recognized her behavior was abhorrent and admits that the use of cell phones in school and the lack of consequences made her, and her friends, not care what they did. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5

Not a real photo of this former student Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . GRADUATE OF NORTH TONAWANDA HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2019 I would like to share my experience with the North Tonawanda School District. Although I graduated in 2019, I still have trauma from going to that high school. BULLYING & STEALING SHOES AT 14-YEARS-OLD During my freshman year I was targeted by three girls and bullied profusely. The worst part was that I didn’t knew them. They chose me because of how I looked. There was a group chat made about me that I did not know about  where they would bully, harass and accuse me of stealing their things. It was all part of their own inside joke. I was called names, had my body degraded, and was becoming known at the school based on what they said. I was unaware of all this until I was called down to Mr. Mann’s office where he slammed down 12 pages of text messages on his desk and asked why I was being mentioned in the texts. I was read the messages with no other adult present. This was the first time I heard any of the insults and comments being made about me. At one point I asked him to stop because I was getting so upset. Even though I started to cry he would not stop reading them, which resulted in me walking out of his office. Part of the messages alleged that I stole a pair of the one girl’s shoes. Mind you, I had no idea who this girl was. Assistant Principal Mann proceeded to call my mother and ask her my shoe size. He made me take off my boot so that he could measure it. He said that if I didn’t take it off I would be suspended. The girl’s shoe was two sizes too big for my foot. I was suspended for 5 days anyway.   SAYING GOODBYE TO A FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT I was also suspended by Assistant Principal Mann for leaving a study hall to say goodbye to a foreign exchange student who I had developed a friendship with during their time at the school. I had told the teacher where I was going and they were fine with it. However, I left one of my binders on accident and she brought it to Assistant Principal Mann’s office. I was accused of “skipping” and suspended. He laughed when I told him it was important to me to say goodbye to the foreign exchange student. EXPLICIT PHOTOS POSTED ONLINE AND DISSEMINATED THROUGHOUT SCHOOL When I was 15/16 explicit photos of well over 50 female students at the school were posted on Instagram and being shared in a group chat by boys at the school. This included most of my class of 2019 and girls from years prior.   It was brought to the school’s attention when three of my friends and I went to Assistant Principal Mann and told him that explicit pictures of us were being posted on Instagram, sent through Snapchat and in group chats with dozens of boys at the school.   Not only did he say there was nothing the school could do about it, but he suspended each of the girls, myself included, because we “were a distraction” and “should not have sent them in the first place.”   The victims of a crime were punished while there were no repercussions or investigation by the school into who was collecting and disseminating them.   I went to the police with my mother and spoke to a detective there. I was eventually asked, weeks later, if I wanted to press charges once they caught the person(s) who posted my photos.   They did figure out who did it, but that was maybe 1-2 years later. TARGETED BY ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL MANN It was clear that I was being targeted by Assistant Principal Mann after all of the suspensions. My mom was heavily involved with fighting his decisions.   I was ultimately not allowed to be alone in the same room with Assistant Principal Mann. Another adult had to be present such as a teacher advocate or Mr. Barnett.   As you would expect, I never got in trouble again after that. Assistant Principal Mann could not bully me or be corrupt in his punishments if other people were there.   LEAVING NORTH TONAWANDA HIGH SCHOOL IN JUNIOR YEAR TO BE HOMESCHOOLED  I left the school to be homeschooled three months into my junior year. Now a mother myself, my children all receive a private education because I would never expose them to what I went through with a school who does not protect their students.   North Tonawanda Schools failed me, my friends, and so many others from bullying. Their “no tolerance policy” is not enforced because they clearly do tolerate it. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6

Mrs. Everts, North Tonawanda Middle School Recently, Niagara Action began publishing a series of stories illustrating a culture of bullying, assaults, and harassment at North Tonawanda City Schools. Click Headlines to Read Prior Stories North Tonawanda Schools Face Backlash Over Failure to Protect Students from Bullying A Culture of Unreported Violence: North Tonawanda Schools Part 1  (videos of physical altercations included) Former Assistant Principal Rachel Ross Protects Bullies: North Tonawanda Schools Part 2  (audio recording of Ross yelling at student included) Student Beaten after Principal Rowles Fails to Act: North Tonawanda Schools Part 3   (video of physical altercation included) Special Education Student Locked in Bathroom and Beaten: North Tonawanda Schools Part 4 Assault Victim Punished Instead of Bully: North Tonawanda Schools Part 5 Victim of Explicit Photo Dissemination Suspended: North Tonawanda Schools Part 6 After the articles circulated throughout the community, several parents, current and former students submitted their experiences via email to us. Their stories amounted to a simple conclusion: there is a refusal to protect students in North Tonawanda. This series is based on a combination of first-hand narratives and investigative reporting. Narratives from those who experienced it will be posted without any redaction and/or modifications. That is their truth, and we are not here to take that away from them. We do not post them as fact, but rather as what these individuals experienced. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com . EMAIL FROM 2022 GRADUATE OF NORTH TONAWANDA HIGH SCHOOL I just read your article on NT schools and felt compelled to share my own experience. My oldest brother and I were targeted by the administration, in both middle and high school, until we got out. Not only are there HUGE bullying issues among students, but also with teachers and administrators. 7TH GRADE BULLYING I was in 7th grade when me and some friends had a falling out. We all lived near each other, and they accused me of “stalking them.” It had gotten to the point that the three of them said they were going to jump me. We argued back and forth for days until I came into school and Vice Principal Stexter pulled me into the office. That’s when he showed me printed out screenshots of our arguments, of course leaving out the threats and other mean comments they had said to me. He called my mom and she came to the school. My mom was aware of the issue already and had seen the messages. We tried to show him where they had threatened me, which is when he told us, “I don’t need to see it.” I was suspended, but none of my three former friends were. Emboldened by not being held accountable, the bullying continued. Shortly thereafter I was almost jumped on the school bus. 7TH GRADE SPECIAL EDUCATION HELPER My 7th grade special education helper, Mrs. Snyder, used to talk about me right in front of me, telling other teachers that I was nothing but issues. On one occasion she even called me “more retarded than most.” While sitting in class talking with a friend about an upcoming field trip to Darien Lake, she just went off on me. She told me I was going to grow up to be “nothing”, that I would “never get a diploma,” and that I didn't deserve to be on the trip. My actual teacher, Mr. Malcahy, witnessed this and never said anything.    DR. BARED, MRS. EVERTS HARASSING ME AND OTHER SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS When I was in 8th grade, which was 2017/2018, I had a science teacher who relentlessly bullied the special education students. Dr. Bared called me and others stupid. She even said that I was “destined for failure.”   My friends and I consulted with our speech teacher about Dr. Bared harassing us. He told us it was probably a “misunderstanding” and to write a letter since we were uncomfortable talking to her directly.   We wrote the letter explaining how the comments she says makes students feel uncomfortable and kept it in my friend’s binder. She came to me later that day saying that the school counselor, Mrs. Everts, took the note and, right in front of her, copied and printed off a large stack of them. My friend was then told to leave. The next day at school we noticed that most of the staff had a copy of the letter we wrote. When we went to science later that day, Dr. Bared had a copy as well and was reading it, laughing with another teacher as she looked in our direction. FRESHMAN YEAR The bullying continued into high school in 2018. There was a time I got in trouble for fighting someone who was constantly saying vile things to me in the hallway. She would call me a wh*re, a bitch, was telling people to stop talking to me, that I was pregnant, a lesbian, and more. Worse yet, she would encourage others to call me the same. When Principal Fisher brought me into his office, he immediately began degrading me. He told me I wouldn’t graduate high school, called me a “menace to society,” "brain damaged," "defective," and that he was going to do everything he could to get me kicked out of his school for good. I had never met him before, but only found out afterward that the other student had a connection to him. I stayed quiet in his office until my mom showed up, at which point I told him to stop talking about me like that. For the rest of my time at that school, most teachers labeled me as a troubled kid and treated me as such.  BROTHER There was also an incident with my older brother at North Tonawanda Middle School in 2013. Mr. Burgess was the principal at the time.   My brother rode the bus and was constantly being harassed by another student in his grade. One day, the kid wouldn’t leave him alone, calling him names and poking him. The boy said that my brother pulled out a pocket knife and threatened him. He claimed that my brother slashed up his backpack with the knife to “intimidate him.”   My brother was called down to Principal Burgess’ office with our mother and was allowed to tell his side of the story. Afterward, Principal Burgess told them that he believed my brother, saying that he doesn’t think he’s a bad kid and would stick up for him at the Superintendent suspension hearing where his punishment was going to be decided. Specifically, Principal Burgess said he would recommend no punishment. The meeting included Principal Burgess, Superintendent Woytila, Mr. Mann, an attorney for the district, my brother, mother, and possibly others. Mr. Mann asked Principal Burgess if he agreed with the maximum 6-month suspension, which he said yes.   My mom then asked where the backpack was. They told her that it was already thrown out because they “didn’t need it.” Mind you, no one had ever shown this backpack to my mother or brother.   My brother was suspended for 6 months when there was no proof he had a pocket knife or slashed the backpack. Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to be heard. I know so many others who have been affected by the school's negligence and it needs to stop. If you would like to share your own experience with North Tonawanda Schools and any of the issues raised throughout this article, please email us at niagaraaction@gmail.com .  Special Education Student Bullied by Teachers: North Tonawanda Schools Part 7

County Emergency Services Director Jon Schultz; Legislators Randy Bradt and Jesse Gooch; Mayor Austin Tylec; NT Fire Chief Doug Orlowski; Deputy Chief Brandon Werth at North Tonawanda Fire Department Headquarters on Zimmerman Street Niagara County Legislators Randy Bradt and Jesse Gooch today handed over the keys to a 2020 Chevy Silverado, previously used by county Emergency Services, to North Tonawanda Mayor Austin Tylec for use by the North Tonawanda Fire Department.  The Niagara County Legislature voted at their last meeting to declare the Silverado as surplus property, allowing for ownership to be transferred to the NT Fire Department.  The vehicle was previously used by the county’s Deputy Fire Coordinator. “Emergency response is a function shared by multiple levels of governments, so it only makes sense to share resources wherever we can to extend life of equipment and save taxpayer dollars,” said Bradt.   Niagara County Sends Emergency Services Vehicle to North Tonawanda Fire Department