Your trusted source for local Boston, MA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Boston's Planning Department approved three new development projects that will create 920,062 square feet of residential space and 820 housing units, including 163 income-restricted units. The projects will generate approximately 801 construction jobs and 61 permanent jobs, contributing to a more affordable and equitable city.
Washington, D.C., filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration to block the federal takeover of its police department. Attorney General Brian Schwalb claims the intervention is illegal and threatens local governance, while U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed a federal official to oversee police operations. This legal battle highlights the tension between federal authority and local governance in the nation’s capital.
A Massachusetts man, Jack Bilodeau, 81, died after being rescued from Lake Winnisquam in New Hampshire. He reportedly experienced a medical event while swimming after his drifting boat and was pronounced dead at Concord Hospital-Laconia. The incident is under investigation by state police.
Tens of thousands of Uber and Lyft drivers in Massachusetts will receive a portion of $175 million in restitution following a settlement with the state Attorney General's Office. Drivers who worked more than 8 miles per week from July 2020 to July 2024 are eligible for payments, which will be distributed in early fall.
A former Seabrook police officer, John Giarrusso, faces federal charges for allegedly receiving child pornography while out on bail for similar accusations. Federal prosecutors claim Giarrusso received videos depicting child sexual abuse between October 16 and 17, 2024, potentially involving a victim aged 5 to 11. If convicted, he faces a prison sentence of at least five years, with potential fines up to $250,000.
A man threatened pro-Palestinian protesters in Cambridge on Sunday, brandishing a hatchet during a demonstration. Protest organizers reported that he recklessly drove his car into their march, while police appeared to take little action. Cambridge police are currently investigating the incident.
Maine Fire Chief David Knox apologized for mistakenly sharing a profanity-laced music video on his department's Facebook page. The post featured Wheeler Walker Jr.'s anti-work anthem, "F— This Job," and was deleted shortly after it was posted. Knox accepted full responsibility and announced measures to improve the department's social media oversight.
The City of Boston will honor 29 adult learners at the 2025 First Literacy Scholarship Ceremony on August 27, 2025. Six Boston residents, including Ana Maria Garcia and Emani Ruiz, will receive scholarships to support their education. The program has awarded over 600 scholarships since its inception in 1990, recognizing achievements and potential in adult education.
An 18-year-old pregnant teen, Kylee Monteiro, has been missing since August 7, last seen at her boyfriend's house in Rehoboth, Massachusetts. Her family expresses concern over her well-being, noting she had recently indicated feeling unsafe following a domestic argument. Police are actively searching for her and urge anyone with information to come forward.
Mayor Michelle Wu launched the “Age Strong Rolling Grants” program to support organizations serving older adults in Boston, with grants up to $150,000 available. The initiative aims to enhance programming for residents aged 55 and older and addresses barriers to funding for community organizations. Applications open on August 13, with grants awarded on a rolling basis until May 2026.