QCA.news - Quad Cities news and view from both sides of the river

Davenport and Canadian Pacific at a crossroad

The City of Davenport and Canadian Pacific are struggling to meet an agreement on downtown Davenport's riverfront. It started when Canadian Pacific raised the tracks downtown by three feet.

New Davenport project helping one woman realize her dream of home ownership

DAVENPORT, Iowa-- Krist Breheny has big dreams for one old house in Davenport. She's about to close the deal on the white, two-story home built around 1880. But before she can move in, it's going to need some work. "We're gonna try to do siding," she explains. "We're gonna get estimates on the siding and see how it looks... It's gonna take us probably a good month and a half to two months to get stuff out of the house. It's been abandoned that long." The house seems to have been long forgotten. Paint is chipping away from the walls. Windows are broken. And Breheny says raccoons are living inside. But she's not backing away from the challenge. "One of the best things that could happen to me," she says. "It's my project. And it's gonna be my house in my name." She says her dream of owning her own home is now possible because of Davenport DREAM, a new project from the city that will help her cover the repairs and upgrades. City council members approved the program on Wednesday, June 26. $900,000 in grant money will be available July 1st to help people cover the cost of home repair. Applications will be available that day online. That funding is designated for a specific area of the city, roughly stretching from Locust Street to River Drive and Bridge Avenue to S Fairmount Street. Rawson says the city found this area was especially in need of financial help with older neighborhoods and many abandoned houses there. She says there's also funding available for homeowners outside that area. She says each application will be considered on a case by case basis and includes a home inspection before approval. "It's really a revitalization effort to get people more excited about our more mature neighborhoods, to get them looking seriously about living in these neighborhoods," Fifth Ward Alderman Rita Rawson says. "The hope is to get people excited and energized about the neighborhoods and to get that one or two properties on a block that kind of raise the bar," she says. Breheny says she hopes her home improvement project will do just that. "Maybe if they see me do this to the house, maybe it'll influence others to help with their houses," she says. Breheny isn't sure how long it'll take to fix up her dream house. She hopes to eventually live on the first floor and rent out the second floor. Davenport DREAM is currently a pilot program and is only funded for one year through the Community Development Block Grant and Capital Improvement Programs. Rawson says the City Council could look at additional money in the future to expand the program.

Florida boy runs to honor fallen Fulton County Sheriff's Deputy

Zecharia Cartledge of Winter Park, Fla. ran a mile around the track Wednesday night in Deputy Chisum's honor.

Rock Island Sheriff's Office reacts to Fulton County Sheriff Deputy killed in the line of duty

When a law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty, agencies come together.

Officials ask for help finding Illinois woman with cognitive impairments

55-year-old Margarita Del Valle was wearing a white shirt, black pants and black and white gym shoes at the time of her disappearance.

Muscatine firefighters recognized for saving woman trapped in burning apartment

On April 18, the two ran into a smoke-burned building on West 3rd St. to find a trapped person and were able to save them.

Alabama dealership offers car buyers shotgun, Bible and flag to celebrate July Fourth

An Alabama car dealership is getting national attention for its Fourth of July promotion.

Broadway District in Rock Island will soon display glass banners

The neighborhood is one of the first built in the area, dating back to the late 1800s.

Rock Island City Council approves refunds for Sunset Marina boat owners

For all the boats involved, that amounts to about $30,000.

Want to be in a parade? East Moline is looking for entries

EAST MOLINE, Illinois – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Miss Illinois have already said they’ll be there.   But organizers of the 2019 East Moline Fourth of July parade say they still want to see you too. The city is putting the word out that it is looking for “creative, entertaining parade entries” that will fit this year’s theme: “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave… Superheroes”. Entry deadline is Friday, June 28, 2019. This is the 61st year of the Fourth of July parade that runs through East Moline’s downtown. Parade organizers are looking for entries that honor the military, police, fire, nurses or teachers. Parade forms are available by clicking here or calling (309) 752-1599.

Mother, daughter plead not guilty in Illinois cut-from-womb case

Prosecutors haven't charged them with murder in the death of Marlen Ochoa-Lopez's newborn son, but police have said they expect them to do so.

Shot Chicago police officer 'clinging to life'

No arrests have been made yet.

Iowa law enforcement concerned about marijuana soon to be legal across the state border

LECLAIRE, Iowa – Iowa law enforcement officers say with Illinois across the river they may see an increase in marijuana possession after Illinois Governor JB Pritzker legalized the drug in Illinois Tuesday morning. The law will go into effect January 1st, 2020. However, marijuana is still illegal in the state of Iowa, which could pose problems for law enforcement on the state border. LeClaire Police Department says come next year they may need to plan if they see an increase in marijuana in Iowa. “If it’s purchased in Illinois illegally and you’re in possession of that in the state of Iowa, it’s illegal to possess it,” says Chief Shane Themas of the LeClaire Police Department. “It’s a serious misdemeanor in Iowa.” LeClaire Police say since the bill was signed into law recently, they don’t have a plan in place yet if they do see an increase. Marijuana will be legal in Illinois for adults 21 and older.  Possession is still a crime until that date.

Texas infant dies after being left in hot car while father works in restaurant

GALVESTON, Texas – A 1-year-old boy died in stifling heat after being left in a hot car while his father went to work, KCCI reported. The child, who died Saturday, spent five hours in an SUV in the parking lot of the restaurant where his father worked, authorities said. He was there during peak heat index hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. When the boy’s father returned to the car in the late afternoon, he found the little boy was unresponsive, police said. The high in Galveston Saturday was around 92 degrees; experts said this means the air temperature in the vehicle could have be up to 135 degrees. Police identified the boy’s father as Abner Peña but said they had not filed charges against him, according to KCCI.

Wheel of Misfortune; Brandi Adams

Each Wednesday on News 8 CrimeStoppers of the Quad Cities introduce the community to one of the area's most wanted criminals. On Wednesday, June 26, 2019, the "Wheel of Misfortune" landed on 39-year-old Brandi Adams. He's 5'8", 150 pounds, blond hair, blue eyes. She is wanted for failure to appear/delivery of methamphetamine. She is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers. Tips leading to an arrest could be eligible for a $500 reward.

Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Knox and Stark Counties until 6:45 p.m.

Can’t see the radar? Tap here. Click here for details on the thunderstorm warning. 

Cigarette or electrical malfunction may have caused Notre Dame fire, Paris prosecutor says

A preliminary investigation found no evidence to suggest that a fire that gutted large parts of Notre Dame Cathedral was criminal, the prosecutor's office said Wednesday.

Independence Day Celebrations

Check here for a list of times and locations for fireworks and July 4th activities across the QCA.

Jailed teen from Kewanee charged with six counts of home invasion

KEWANEE, Illinois — A teenager is facing multiple counts of home invasion after a shooting was reported in a Kewanee neighborhood. The Henry-Mercer Investigative Task Force was called to investigate the shooting around 12:50 a.m. Monday, June 24, according to a statement from Chief Troy Ainley with the Kewanee Police Department. The investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old Jacques K. Nile, who was charged with six counts of home invasion and one count of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, according to Chief Ainley.  Nile, from Kewanee, was arrested around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26 and was held in the Henry County Jail on $750,000 bond. If you have any information, you’re asked to call the Kewanee Police Department at 309-853-1911.

Rock Island police to ‘ticket’ kids this summer

ROCK ISLAND, Illinois — Police officers will be on the lookout for kids during the summer months, looking to hand out “tickets.” Don’t worry – the “tickets” are coupons good for a free small Slurpee from 7-Eleven. The campaign is called “Operation Chill” and is a reward system for officers to recognize kids doing good deeds or showing positive behavior. According to a Facebook post from the Rock Island Police Department, the program is made to “reduce crime and enhance relations between police and youth.”

Henry County officers receive grant to purchase body armor

The sheriff's office says it purchased body armor, and medical kits through a grant received from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation.

Man wanted in connection with burglary in Cedar Falls

The Cedar Falls Police Department believes the man pictured above has information that would be useful in their investigation.

Auxiliary lock opens for season at Lock 14, Pleasant Valley

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mississippi River Project will open the auxiliary lock at Lock and Dam 14 in Pleasant Valley beginning Friday for recreational boating traffic.

Scott County Health Department will provide free HIV tests, information at Walgreens, Davenport

Scott County Health Department representatives will provide free, quick HIV tests 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Thursday, June 27, at Walgreens, 1805 Brady St., Davenport.

Senate OKs bipartisan bill to care for migrants

The Senate has approved bipartisan legislation providing $4.6 billion to care for thousands of migrants streaming into the U.S. across the Mexican border.

HDC Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The Handicapped Development Center in Davenport is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It will hold an open house Thursday afternoon.

5-year-old thrown from Mall of America balcony remains in intensive care

BLOOMINGTON, Minnesota – The family of a 5-year-old boy who was thrown from a balcony at the Mall of America has released new information about the April 12 attack in a statement to NBC News. Landen remains in intensive care after suffering two broken arms, a broken leg, skull fractures and other serious injuries. “…The injuries and severe complications have now resulted in more than 15 separate medical procedures or surgeries, including surgeries for two broken arms and a broken leg, removal of his spleen, procedures for fluid in his lungs and stomach, as well as for facial and skull fractures; and just this past weekend, he had a stent placed in a vein that runs through his liver because of the serious complications he continues to endure.” Emmanuel Aranda was sentenced to 19 years in prison for the attack. “While the miracle of his survival is what we celebrate and thank Jesus for every day, we must also acknowledge that our beautiful boy has been on a very challenging road to recovery,” the family said in a statement. “He remains in intensive care where he has been since his admission, under constant treatment and monitoring, and we are still unsure when our family will be able to return home,” the family said. “Throughout, your support has lifted each of us and reminded us of the power of God’s love. But our focus must continue to be solely on his recovery and the health of our entire family. Thanks again to each of you for your prayers and best wishes. Please continue to pray for him.”

Watch live: Democratic Primary Debate with NBC News

Savannah Guthrie, Lester Holt, Chuck Todd, Rachel Maddow and José Diaz-Balart moderate. Pre-debate coverage begins at 7 p.m.

Man injured after falling out of vehicle in DeWitt, taken to Iowa City for treatment

The incident is currently under investigation by the DeWitt Police Department, with assistance from the Iowa State Patrol.

Documents show NSA again improperly collected call records

Newly released documents show the National Security Agency improperly collected phone records four months after it said it had fixed technical problems that caused a similar collection of data that violated federal law.

Beth Chapman, wife of ‘Dog the Bounty Hunter,’ dies at 51

HONOLULU - Beth Chapman, best known for the A&E reality series “Dog the Bounty Hunter,”  has died. She was 51. Duane Dog Chapman, her husband, tweeted the news Wednesday. Chapman’s death follows a lengthy battle with lung cancer. On Monday, her husband and co-star, Duane “Dog” Chapman shared a photo from Beth's hospital bedside in Honolulu, where doctors placed her in a medically-induced coma. In September 2017 the couple used the official Facebook account to confirm a report that she had been diagnosed with Stage 2 throat cancer. They revealed during an A&E special "Dog & Beth: Fight of Their Lives" in November 2017 that the cancer had been removed, but it came back last year. Wednesday, Duane Chapman tweeted Beth had "hiked the stairway to heaven." It’s 5:32 in Hawaii, this is the time she would wake up to go hike Koko Head mountain. Only today, she hiked the stairway to heaven. We all love you, Beth. See you on the other side. — Duane Dog Chapman (@DogBountyHunter) June 26, 2019 Chapman starred with her husband on the A&E reality show "Dog the Bounty Hunter," which ran from 2004 to 2012. The show followed Dog, the mulleted bounty hunter, and his platinum blond wife Beth, who formed a ferocious team with other family and colleagues and tracked down bail fugitives. The show filmed in Hawaii as well as Colorado, and the two got married in 2006 in a season three episode. The couple then starred in "Dog and Beth: On the Hunt," a spin-off that aired on CMT from 2013 to 2015. A new series on WGN America, “Dog’s Most Wanted,” is set to air in 2020. Chapman was the youngest to ever get a bail license in her home state of Colorado, and, in 2016, she was elected president of the Professional Bail Agents of the United States. CNN contributed to this report.

Marine veteran reunited with military dog after years apart

CHICAGO — A U.S. Marine veteran from Albany Park was reunited with an old military buddy at Midway Airport Tuesday, and the wagging tail and kisses prove that absence makes the hound grow fonder. They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but 8-year-old U.S. Marine canine Atilla R7-89 still had one surprise for his old partner. The german shepherd and trained tracker worked with Marine Sgt. Jacob Varela for three years in a special operations unit. The two formed a lasting bond, but have not seen each other since July of 2017. "We were together for everything everywhere I went out in the field," Varela told WGN. "If I was drinking water, he was drinking water; he's an actual teammate." Military dogs do demanding and draining work, and eventually the dogs have to retire. When Sgt. Varela learned Atilla could no longer work, he wanted to adopt his old buddy. That’s where a group called Mission K-9 Rescue stepped in, doing whatever it took to bring the old partners back together. “These dogs serve with these guys, there’s a bond that we can’t understand,” said Kristen Maurer, Mission K-9 Rescue. When Southwest Airlines Flight 7 from Houston arrived, it was clear: this dog's bark was worth its flight. Sgt. Varela is now out of the Marines and is a full time student. While he’s working on a college degree, he says Atilla has earned a relaxing retirement.

Procession to transport fallen Fulton County Sheriff’s deputy planned for 1 p.m.

PEORIA, Illinois — A 54-mile procession to transport a fallen Fulton County Sheriff’s deputy, who died in the line of duty, is set to begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 26. Deputy Troy Chisum was shot and killed Tuesday afternoon, June 25, while responding to a call in Avon, according to Fulton County Sheriff Jeff Standard.  A 42-year-old man, Nathan Woodring, was taken into custody in connection with the deputy’s death. Deputy Chisum was a four-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, a paramedic with the Fulton County Emergency Management Agency, a member of the West Central Special Response Team and the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System- Weapons of Mass Destruction Special Response Team.  The procession route will go from the Peoria County Coroner’s office at 506 Seneca Street to Lewistown.  Here’s the route: California south to McClure West on McClure to Knoxville South on Knoxville to 74 74 West to 474 East to 116 West 116 West to IL Rt. 78 South on IL Rt 78 to IL Rt. 100 Arrive in Lewistown Click here for a map of the route. Residents have been asked to stand along the route in support of Deputy Chisum’s family.

The Nina and The Pinta will not stop in Davenport this season due to flooding

Officials say the replicas of Columbus' ships have been affected by the flooding and damage, like many along the river.

Humane Society of Scott County agrees to continue providing animal control services to Davenport, temporarily

DAVENPORT, Iowa -- The Humane Society of Scott County has agreed to temporarily extend its contract with the City of Davenport, despite a failed negotiation with city leaders. The Humane Society provides animal control services for the City of Davenport, but in June of 2019 shelter leaders started asking for a 300% increase in the price.  That increase would have upped the cost from $240,000 per year to $720,000 per year. On Tuesday, June 25, the Humane Society announced on its Facebook page that they planned to extend their contract with the city through July 31. Before the Humane Society agreed to extend its contract, City of Davenport leaders looked to King's Harvest Pet Rescue as a possible alternative.   King's Harvest was considering the agreement, but the assistant director, Rochelle Dougall, said they were "probably at max capacity." In any given month, the Humane Society responds to an average of 400 animal control calls, and accommodates about 200 animals, according to Development Manager Ryan Wille. According to their Facebook post, the Humane Society's service is especially important because of the busy July 4th holiday.  Wille said they are prepared to handle the influx.

Who's in the news? Keviahnna F. Wilmington

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Keviahnna F. Wilmington of Davenport graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Parents fight back as woman allegedly tries to kidnap children at Atlanta airport

A mother and father fended off an alleged kidnapper who tried to take at least two of their children, as seen in surveillance video released by the Atlanta Police Department.

Another chance of severe weather this evening

Mostly sunny skies will allow our temperatures to rise to 88 degrees with heat index values up around 90. As heat and humidity rise, storms are expected to pop up by mid-afternoon, right along the Mississippi River, including the Quad City Metro area. Storms will move southeast and as they grow mature, some could produce large hail and damaging wind. The severe weather risk will be at a level two out of five for areas east of the Mississippi River, especially for hometowns along the US-34 corridor such as Burlington, Monmouth, Galesburg, Galva, Kewanee, and Princeton. Storms will be strongest between 6-9pm. Storms will dwindle out as we head to bed tonight. Temperatures will stay in the 70s, making for an uncomfortably humid night. -Meteorologist Eric Sorensen

Crews find body of man who fell into the Mississippi River near Lock and Dam 14

The body of a missing man who fell into the Mississippi River on Saturday has been found according to Hampton, Ill., Fire and Rescue.

Clinton bank creates program to help boost local economy

CLINTON, Iowa  -- Clinton National Bank has been in the are for 150 years and employs over 100 people throughout their nine branches. While brainstorming ideas to keep community involvement up, the bank came up with a new program. The program encourages Clinton National Bank employees to shop or eat at locally owned places in town. All the 104 employees have to do is spend at least $10 and turn the receipts in at work. At the end of every month, one receipts will be drawn and the winner receives $25 in River City Gold. River City Gold can be used at shops or restaurants that are a part of the Chamber of Commerce.  The idea is all centered around keeping local businesses in town. "Well I'm hoping that we do make a difference," Clinton National Bank Co- President Jennifer Boysen said. "Even if it makes everybody just pause before they make that online purchase and they spend their dollars here locally, what an impact that could be." There is no limit on the number of local receipts employees can submit. The program began on June 12th and they say they already have 118 receipts turned in. "Other merchants in town have communicated with me that online that is really hurting them," Boysen said. " I have nothing against online, I get that it's very convenient, but we have a lot of merchants here locally that have those same products." The program will continue until the end of the year.

Kewanee restaurant crowned with best burger in Illinois

Kewanee, Illinois--You might think the best burger would be in Chicago or a big city but according to the Illinois Beef Association the best burger can be found tucked away in Kewanee. Cerno’s bar and grill, crowned as the number one burger in the entire state of Illinois. "Our burger usually takes about 12-15 minutes to cook depending on how somebody wants it cooked," said kitchen manager, Stephen Welgat. Welgat lets the grill sizzle each burger to perfection, every ingredient started from scratch. "It’s no special recipe. We do it the same way every single time," said Welgat. He’s helped grow Cerno’s into more than just a bar. "I’ve known the owners for quite a long time I’ve been involved in this bar since they took over in 2001," said Welgat. Welgat was just as surprised as Cerno's owner, Brian Crabtree, who found out from his wife. "'Did you hear that you go nominated for this [award]' what?!, No the Illinois Beef Association nominated you guys as the number one burger in Illinois.. How does this happen," said Crabtree. The bar itself holds its own title, one of the longest in the state but now they whole staff feels like they've won their own. "We used to be all about the bar..that’s why it was always Cerno's Bar and Grill and now in my opinion it’s Cerno's Grill and Bar," said Crabtree. From the bar, into the kitchen the crew appreciates the recognition. "When we did end up winning, everybody said oh that’s great this is the best burger we love it here, we love your food, we love coming in here. It definitely gives you a sense of satisfaction," said Welgat. All of the hard work makes it easy to stand behind a job well done. The next burger Cerno's hopes to tackle is a plant-based burger.

Triple Digit Heat Index Likely This Weekend

The warmest stretch of weather so far this year will arrive this weekend with heat indices in the triple digits.

Births for Wednesday

GENESIS MEDICAL CENTER, SILVIS

VIDEO: Police officer dad “pulls over” adorable 10-month-old daughter

Orlando Police Officer Alex Kipp meet his match last week when he pulled over his daughter Talynn for driving on the wrong side of the road in her stroller car.

Eastern Iowa Community Colleges will revise policy to allow stun guns on campus

After a change in state law, the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges have proposed revisions to policies related to allowing non-projectile stun guns on campus.

Henry County, Iowa health office audit finds misappropriation of thousands of dollars

The auditor recommended better internal controls.

Teen alcohol use is down, but plenty are still drinking

The 2018 data shows that by the end of 12th grade, 59 percent of students had “consumed more than a few sips” of alcohol.

A message to subscribers

A transformer failure has knocked out power at the Quad-City Times presses.

Cleanup underway at LeClaire Park after record-breaking flooding

Cleaning up the mud is just one of many steps in place to revamp Downtown Davenport.

One man in custody after standoff in Burlington

Multiple agencies responded, and hours later, the man was taken into custody without further incident.

‘I can’t recall anything,’ says man who went missing in Mexico for days

Jessy Pacheco said he’s grateful to be back home in the U.S. His friend, Carlos Alejandro Delgadillo Romero, was found beaten, shot and killed near the bar where the two were last seen, The incident is under investigation.

Eldridge plans mass causality-response training, the day after 12-year-old North Scott shooter's trial is set to begin

One day after the trial is set to begin for a 12-year-old North Scott Junior High student who shot a gun at a teacher, Eldridge police will host two days of Rescue Task Force training at North Scott High School.

Flood damage at least $2 billion for Mississippi River towns

Mayors from river communities who spoke in a conference call Tuesday agreed that this year's flood has been particularly damaging.

Organist ends nearly 40 years of service to Rock Island church

ROCK ISLAND, Illinois -- The longtime organist with Two Rivers United Methodist Church is ending nearly 40 years of service. Members of the church celebrated Judith Litherland and her service to the church on Sunday, June 23.  Rev. Robb McCoy said she is leaving behind a legacy that has filled halls with music. friendship, mentorship, and kindness. Litherland said she will miss the choir members and all the fun she's had through the years. "This is one of the only times I have sat out here, and heard the choir and it about knocked my socks off. They`re a wonderful group, and I hope they keep doing what they are assigned to do," said Litherland.

Two Bellevue, Iowa residents die in plane crash

SUGAR CREEK TOWNSHIP, Ohio– According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, two people from Bellevue, Iowa died in a plane crash. On June 20, 2019, just before 5 p.m., the Lima Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to a plane crash. The debris was in a field in Allen County, Ohio. Further investigation shows the two people in the plane both passed away. According to the Allen County Coroner,  65-year-old Steven Niemann of Bellevue was the pilot. And 50-year-old Tracey Hartnett also of Bellevue, was the passenger. They were flying in a 1981 Beechcraft A36 Bonanza, a single engine, fixed-wing aircraft. The plane was registered to Stevann Farms LLC, located in Bellevue, Iowa. Niemann did have a valid pilot’s license which he had held for several years. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Rock Island to give credits to some boaters at Sunset Marina

ROCK ISLAND — On Monday night, the Rock Island City Council voted unanimously to give credits to boaters affected by extreme flooding at Sunset Marina.

'It's just unprecedented:' Upper Mississippi River reopens to barge traffic after months of lost sales

Scott County farmer Robb Ewoldt has around $80,000 worth of soybeans in storage, waiting to be shipped down the Mississippi River.

Rock Island to give credits to some boaters at Sunset Marina

On Monday night, the Rock Island City Council voted unanimously to give credits to boaters affected by extreme flooding at Sunset Marina.

With only a month until race day, 6 things to know about Bix 7

The Quad-City Times Bix 7 Road Race is only a month away. And it's going to be a special year.

Area marijuana dispensary prepares for recreational addition

The legalization of recreational marijuana means big things for one local dispensary.

Cities on the Mississippi from QC to Louisiana are seeing $2 billion in flood damage

DAVENPORT, Iowa – Damage from record breaking flooding on the Mississippi River is estimated to cost $2 billion for the region from the Quad Cities to Louisiana. This amount is what seven mayors along the river discussed Tuesday morning on a phone call. The flood hit close to home when the wall failed in downtown Davenport, but what happened in the Quad Cities has a major impact on what happened downriver too. “We are all in this together,” says Davenport Mayor Frank Klipsch. “One city is important but all of us together has a much greater impact.” Communities like Davenport down to New Orleans are now in flood recovery mode. “It is the wettest June to May in the last 124 years for the eastern US and the Mississippi Valley,” says Jared Gartman of the US Army Corp of Engineers. Every city included in the call saw an impact. “The Mississippi River in Alton stretched seven miles wide, it was a massive event,” Alton, Illinois Mayor Brant Walker says. “We’ve had 15 sewer failures, 30 street failures all because of the water all in those impoverished areas,” comments Greenville, Mississippi Mayor Errick Simmons. But this flood season cities along the river south of the Quad Cities are thankful for wetlands north of them on the Davenport riverfront. “First, I want to thank the City of Davenport and it’s nine miles of riverfront park and its ability to absorb, which I'm convinced here in Grafton does tremendously not only to us but also to the other communities in the south,” says Grafton, Illinois Mayor Rick Eberlin. Now, all the cities are taking the flood of 2019 as a lesson learned as they look to improve. “We’ll probably receive more flooding in the future before we have a more long-term initiative,” says Klipsch. Klipsch says the City of Davenport is forming a task force to brainstorm ways to prevent flooding.  That group of 20 people will start meeting after July 4th. The Army Corp of Engineers says it’ll be mid to late July when all of the area is out of flood stage except for New Orleans.

Davenport police investigate shots-fired incident at Kimberly Downs

No one was injured after shots were fired shortly before noon Tuesday at 3500 Kimberly Downs Road, Davenport.

Study suggests Scott County needs to grow Jail and Juvenile Detention Center

DAVENPORT, Iowa - The Scott County Board of Supervisors heard a presentation following an assessment of the Scott County Juvenile Detention Center and the Scott County Jail on June 25. The study, led by Wold Architects and Engineers, had an objective of understanding how Scott County Jail and the Juvenile Detention Center could be responsive and cost effective as they continue to grow. [Click HERE to view the full presentation] Research presented showed an increase in population at both of the facilities over the past ten years. The growing population means there is a need for more beds and more staff in both the Juvenile Detention Center and the Jail. The study suggests that the Juvenile Detention Center could need to grow from it's current number of 16 beds to 64 beds in the year 2037. "That’s a pretty large number. 64 beds seems like a very large number," said Jeremy Kaiser, Director of Scott County Juvenile Detention Center. "With the amount of increase that we have had in recent years, it doesn’t surprise me that that would be the number in 20 years from now." Scott County Sheriff Tim Lane said finding space for juvenile offenders in the county is a top priority of his. Right now, because of overcrowding, many juveniles are being housed in other facilities. The sheriff said that's very expensive. "I am also concerned that if we don’t do something soon, space for juveniles across the state of Iowa will run out. We will be without space for them, they will be released out into the public regardless of what their charges are," said Sheriff Lane. Meanwhile, the study found that the adult jail is also projecting a need for expansion. The projections show an additional 119 beds could be needed at the Scott County Jail by 2037. "We definitely need more space within the Juvenile Detention Center and the adult jail," said Sheriff Lane. While some of the findings presented during the meeting showed long-term projections, there were also some immediate concerns highlighted. The study confirmed what Board Supervisor Ken Croken called, "the beliefs and impressions" of county staff who say the jail is understaffed. At it's current size, the study recommended an additional 10 officers be hired full-time. Sheriff Lane said it will be an initial priority to "get more staffing into the jail." The board saw three basic expansion design plans that gave them an idea of what adding more space could look like. Each one of the plans had a projected cost of $20 Million to $40 Million dollars. Those expenses caused board member Ken Croken to speak up during the presentation. He said the board needs to consider how money is being spent. "My concern is not the plan to expand our ability to incarcerate people," said Croken. "My concern is the lack of a plan to reduce the needs to incarcerate people." He suggests the county should focus more on preventing the need for incarceration. Both Sheriff Tim Lane and Director of the Juvenile Detention Center Jeremy Kiaser pointed out that the county is working very aggressively on developing programs and plans that help to reduce the need for incarceration. "The reality is the judges make the decisions as to who is detained and we are trying our best to try and divert them (the juvenile offenders)," said Kaiser. "We need space here locally where we can work with them and help re-integrate them back to their families." No timeline or final plans are set to expand the jail. The Scott County Board of Supervisors next meeting will be on Thursday, June 27 at 5:00 in the County Board Room at the Administrative Center in Davenport, Iowa.

Volunteers Offer Flood Relief

Volunteers are coming to the Quad Cities to help homeowners recover from the flood. Various teams from the Southern Baptist Convention are scheduled to arrive Wednesday.

Police release video of deputies finding baby girl left in plastic bag in Georgia woods

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office has released video of deputies finding little “baby India,” who was found in a wooded area of northern Georgia in early June, WGCL reports. Baby India was wrapped in a plastic grocery bag on June 6 in an area near the 1900 block of Daves Creek Road. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office released photos last week but on Tuesday released the video. The department says they’re continuing to follow leads in hopes of finding India’s mother. They also say Baby India is thriving and in the care of the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services. Police continue to search for the baby’s mother, who is still missing. If anyone knows a female who was in the late stages of pregnancy and may have given birth to this infant, please contact the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office at 770-781-3087.

Video released of alleged staged Jussie Smollett attack shows actor with noose around neck

CHICAGO — Police have released investigative files and video showing the alleged staged attack of actor Jussie Smollett — one of the videos shows the actor with a noose around his neck. Police spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi released the content Monday afternoon, which included nearly 70 hours of video and 500 pages of handwritten case notes. The release also included arrest reports, case reports, body cam footage and surveillance footage. On Jan. 29, Smollett told police he was attacked in Chicago by two people who were “yelling out racial and homophobic slurs.” In one of the videos released, officers entering Smollett's apartment and the actor is wearing a red and white sweater with a noose around his neck. "Do you want to take it off or anything?" one of the officers asks him. "Yeah, I do, I just wanted y'all to see (inaudible)," Smollett says in the video before removing the rope. "They poured some bleach on me." "You're filming this right?" the man says. The officers say yes. "I don't want to be filmed," Smollett says. The man asks the officers to turn off their camera. Smollett was later charged with multiple felony counts after Chicago police said he staged the attack against himself. Police said he staged the attack with the help of two brothers, Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo. They were seen on video riding in a taxi on the night of the incident. Prosecutors eventually dropped the charges against the actor, but the city asked for more than $130,000 to cover the cost of the investigation into the alleged fake crime. Smollett has maintained his innocence and did not pay the city by the deadline he was given. Smollett was accused of disorderly conduct, and staging a phony hate crime, to raise his profile — and salary — on the television series "Empire." Chicago police have said that they have overwhelming evidence against Smollett. The case became an international sensation — hitting several hot button issues including celebrity scandals, race, police relations, sexual orientation and even politics.

Costs Mounting for This Year's Flood

All the estimates aren't in yet, but the flood of 2019 is going to cost us all a lot of money.

Large police presence in Avon, Illinois

This is a developing story. TV6 has multiple crews headed to the scene and we will update as soon as information becomes available.

Officials need help finding Illinois man with medical and cognitive problems

Officials are asking for your help in locating the man pictured above, 30-year-old Franklin Jones.

Report: Officer shot in Fulton County, Illinois

AVON, Illinois — Several police are on scene where an officer was reportedly shot in Fulton County, Illinois. According to a report by the Macomb News Now, an officer was reported down near 5250 East Troy Road on Tuesday afternoon, June 25.  This area is about 30 miles south of Galesburg. A WQAD News 8 viewer said deputies were responding from Warren and Knox Counties as well. WQAD has a crew headed to the scene. Stay with us for more information as updates become available. 

Officials investigating after shots fired incident Tuesday afternoon in Davenport

The Criminal Investigation Division is continuing to investigate the incident.

Criss Angel to perform at Adler Theatre in September

In a release, Adler officials said he will be performing on Tuesday, September 10 at 7:30 p.m.

What you need to know for the John Deere Classic

The ins and outs one needs to know to enjoy the John Deere Classic.

After 40 years, Davenport's Greatest Grains to close: 'They've been exemplars of what it means to be a local, family business'

By opening the natural food store Greatest Grains in 1979, Max Mayfield said his parents were hoping to bring more life to their Davenport community.

Police: Teacher arrested following sexual misconduct allegations at Mendota High School

Police with the Mendota Police Department said on May 8, 2019, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the Mendota Police Department opened a criminal investigation.

Top illusionist Criss Angel to make magic at Adler on Sept. 10

DAVENPORT – The world-famous illusionist Criss Angel will bring his "RAW: The Mindfreak Unplugged” show to the Adler Theatre on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Tracking the potential for severe storms tonight

Slightly warmer and a bit more humid day has been the highlight so far for the area as temperatures will peak around the mid 80s.  The other big story weather wise will be the potential for isolated severe thunderstorms later tonight.  In fact, the entire area remains in a  Level-2 risk out of 5 of severe weather. Damaging wind and hail will be the main threats tonight with storms developing between 8pm-2am.  Right now, the focus for storm development remains near the Quad Cities and points south. Temperatures the rest of the week into the weekend will remain in the upper 80s to 90 degrees with heat indices approaching 100 by the weekend.   Any future showers or thunderstorms will remain low in the days ahead as the air will be warm not only at the surface but aloft as well.  Only two chances I see and that is Wednesday and Thursday night. Chief meteorologist James Zahara Download the News 8 Weather App — for iOS, click here and for Android, click here Download the free News 8 App — for iOS, click here and for Android, click here

Greatest Grains to close after 40 years of service to the Quad Cities area

After 40 years of service to the Quad Cities community, Greatest Grains has announced they will be closing.

Circa 21's New Season

Elves, a beast, and Sky Masterson are among the characters that will highlight the new season for Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island. The lineup was announced Monday for the six shows, beginning in November.

Godsmack to play TaxSlayer Center Sept. 22 as part of world tour extension

MOLINE – The rock band Godsmack will play the TaxSlayer Center Sunday, Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m., as part of a fall extension of its current world tour, with opening act Halestorm.

"Don't be a straggler"; deadline approaches for those in need of FEMA assistance

The deadline is approaching for those who are in need of FEMA or low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).