Illinois Quick Hits: One confirmed dead from Kankakee tornado
(The Center Square) – Kankakee County authorities have confirmed the death of one individual who was inside a storm-damaged home in Aroma Park.
The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post that the county coroner confirmed the death after sheriff’s deputies were notified late Thursday afternoon.
Government officials said at least 30 homes were destroyed by severe storms and tornadoes Tuesday.
BOBCAT HARVEST
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says 627 bobcats were harvested by hunters and trappers during the state’s 2025-2026 bobcat season.
Jefferson County reported 33 bobcats, followed by Macoupin County with 28.
IDNR issued 2,000 permits for the 2025 season out of 9,700 bobcat lottery applicants.
UI COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER NAMED
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has named a YouTube host to be the school’s 2026 commencement speaker.
“Hot Ones” host Sean Evans graduated from U of I in 2008.
The commencement ceremony is scheduled to be at Gies Memorial Stadium on May 16.
Latest News Stories
Net negative migration is harmful to the economy, economists say
Details pending on billions in foreign investments coming from trade deals
Texas House sues six Democrats absconding in California
With antisemitism on the rise, a glimmer of hope at Jewish delis
‘Exactly what we need’: First expedited coal lease advances
In six months, ICE arrests 350 gang members in Houston
Faculty Union Asks for Delay, But Lake Land Board Approves New Stipends and Postpones Grievance Response
Multiple briefs filed with Texas Supreme Court in Abbott lawsuit against Wu
Pasco Mayor Pete Serrano to take Trump appointment as Eastern WA U.S. attorney
President Trump hosts Armenia, Azerbaijan for peace treaty signing
Trump, Putin to meet next week
Bill would codify Trump’s executive order banning ‘woke’ debanking