Kankakee Shooting Victim Identified, New Downtown Housing, and Small Business Week - Thursday, May 7th, 2026

This edition of the WVLI News Update with Rob West for Thursday, May 7, 2026, covers critical local developments and regional headlines impacting the Kankakee and Bourbonnais communities.The episode begins with an update from the Kankakee County Coroner and City Police regarding a fatal shooting that occurred on Tuesday afternoon. Officials have released the identity of the victim and confirmed that a suspect is in custody facing multiple charges. The broadcast also features a story on a Bourbonnais native performing in Chicago who experienced a theft, followed by a surprising resolution involving a local school.In healthcare news, Rob West discusses the latest Leapfrog Group Spring 2026 Hospital Safety Report. Both Riverside and St. Mary’s hospitals received notable marks for patient safety, alongside several other facilities throughout Illinois.Additional segments include:Downtown Development: Details on a newly approved housing renovation project in Kankakee involving a former funeral home.Regional Policy: An update on the extension of the Indiana gas tax suspension and current fuel price averages across the state line.Economic Trends: Projections for record-breaking Mother’s Day spending and the importance of supporting local commerce during National Small Business Week.Community Honors: Recognition of three local law enforcement officers for their service and dedication to the Kankakee County area.Local Events: Information regarding a mobile food pantry pop-up scheduled for Bourbonnais.The update concludes with a comprehensive look at the latest scores and upcoming schedules for the Cubs, White Sox, and Cardinals, as well as updates from the NBA and NHL playoffs.Listen to the full episode for in-depth reporting and complete details on these stories.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.