Your trusted source for local Boston, MA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A Boston police officer discharged a firearm while attempting to subdue a dog outside the Boston Public Library during the morning of April 17, 2025. The incident, which occurred near the Boston Marathon finish line, resulted in the dog escaping but later being subdued using a Taser. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the situation is currently under investigation.
The City of Boston has launched an incentive program for eligible families living in Boston Housing Authority properties, offering a $500 bonus for their children's Boston Saves accounts. This initiative aims to encourage engagement in the city's children's savings account program, which has provided over $1.7 million in funding since its inception. Mayor Michelle Wu and other officials emphasize the program's potential to empower families in planning their financial futures.
The Trump administration has announced significant cuts to FEMA disaster prevention funding, impacting Massachusetts by $90 million and halting crucial projects designed to combat rising sea levels. Local officials express concern over the potential for increased flooding and economic damage, as the cuts jeopardize protective measures for communities along the coast. The decision has sparked debate over the allocation of federal resources and the future of disaster preparedness in the region.
The Trump administration has intensified its scrutiny of Harvard University, threatening its tax-exempt status and ability to enroll foreign students. This move follows the university's refusal to comply with federal demands, including the cessation of diversity programs. Local officials express concern over the broader implications for education and research at Harvard.
A shooting incident in Chelsea, Massachusetts, left a 33-year-old man with life-threatening injuries on Wednesday night. The police are actively investigating the case, collecting ballistic evidence and seeking video footage, while urging the public to come forward with any information.
Karen Read's murder retrial is set to begin, with the defense and prosecution focusing on opening statements. The judge has imposed deadlines for the defense to disclose expert witness details, while the prosecution aims to leverage Read's own statements from media interviews against her. Read maintains her innocence, claiming another party is responsible for her boyfriend's death.
A cafeteria worker at Tabor Academy, Joao A. Andrade, was arrested for allegedly exposing himself to students in the kitchen area. The incident was reported by two students, leading to an investigation and Andrade's removal from the campus. The school commended the students for their courage in reporting the behavior and emphasized their commitment to student safety.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has announced Emmanuel Oppong-Yeboah as the city's next Poet Laureate, effective July 2025. Oppong-Yeboah, a Ghanaian American poet and educator, aims to expand the legacy of previous laureates by fostering community engagement and promoting poetry among young people. His appointment marks a significant moment for Boston's literary scene, emphasizing the importance of arts in education.
The City of Boston has released the results of a digital equity assessment conducted in 2024, revealing both ample access to digital devices among residents and significant barriers to affordable internet access and digital skills. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the importance of empowering residents in navigating the digital landscape, while the findings will inform a forthcoming Digital Equity Plan aimed at addressing identified gaps. Key demographics, including seniors and low-income households, reported the greatest challenges in accessing technology.
The Boston Transportation Department has announced vehicle restrictions on Canal Street during the Boston Celtics NBA Playoff home games on April 20 and April 23, 2025. Attendees are encouraged to utilize alternative transportation methods, including walking, biking, or public transit, to ease congestion around the event. Parking restrictions will be enforced on both game days to facilitate a smooth experience for fans.