Kankakee Church Lift Fatality, Stolen Firearm Arrest, Aroma Park Search & Rescue Ends - Thursday, March 19th, 2026

Join Rob West for the Thursday edition of the WVLI News Update, providing essential coverage of the latest developments affecting Kankakee County and the surrounding regions.Today’s report begins with details regarding a fatal accident involving a lift at a Kankakee church and an update from Sheriff Mike Downey on the conclusion of search and rescue efforts in Aroma Park following recent severe weather. The update also covers the Veterans Assistance Commission’s ongoing efforts to support displaced veterans and provide burial benefits for a local veteran lost in the storm.In regional news, we examine the significant spike in gas prices across Illinois and Indiana, with local averages seeing a sharp increase in just 48 hours. The broadcast also details the arrest of a Frankfort man accused of making threats against Governor J.B. Pritzker and a Kankakee traffic stop that resulted in a firearm-related arrest.Additional segments include:Damage assessments from Newton and Jasper counties following the March 10 tornado.Important public health information regarding free water testing for residents on private wells.A recap of the recent primary election, including voter turnout figures and the timeline for final results.A comprehensive sports report featuring the Bulls, Blackhawks, Spring Training baseball, and the start of the NCAA tournament as the Fighting Illini take the court.For the full details on these headlines and comprehensive local reporting, listen to the complete episode.Have a news tip to share? Send us a text!Listen to more great shows on the WVLI Podcast Network:This One Time in Kankakee  (Narrative Storytelling)Kankakee Valley Community Happenings  (Businesses & Non-Profits)The voices you trust, beyond the dial.