.png)
WVLI News Update
Stay informed with "WVLI News Update", the podcast that reports on local news stories with expert analysis and engaging commentary. Join Rob West, as he explores the political, economic, and social factors shaping the Kankakee area. Listen everyday, at your convenience, for all your local news.
Subscribe to WVLI News Update podcast, or listen at wvli927.com and click On-Air. New episodes drop every morning! It’s all part of the new WVLI Podcast Network.
WVLI News Update
Monday, August 18, 2025
- Notable Night Sky News
Time now to take a look at what's going on overhead this week. With a look at our Notable Night Sky News.
- IDOT looks for "snowbirds"
It may be August, but the folks at the Illinois Department of Transportation are already thinking about winter. IDOT is looking for what they call “snow birds”, the seasonal employees that will work for IDOT either by the month or by the hour to help out with snow and ice removal this winter. IDOT spokesperson Maria Castaneda says you can apply for the positions through the IDOT website. Salary ranges can be found on the website as well. IDOT reminds you to keep an eye out for snow plows when we head into winter.
- Back to school photo safety
It’s back to school time, and that back to school photo has become a tradition. Officer Megan Lanie with the Bradley Police Department has some tips to make that photo safer. Most area schools return to session later this week.
- State Trooper arrested on child porn charges
An Illinois State Police trooper faces federal child pornography charges. Court records say investigators learned that Colin Gruenke of Deerfield uploaded images of child pornography on the social media platform Kik. Federal agents arrested him last week after confronting him at the Illinois State Police headquarters in Des Plaines. He was placed on administrative leave without pay. Gruenke was also a referee for a junior hockey league.
- Search continues for Gibson City man
Reports say the search continues for a 70-year-old Gibson City man after he allegedly shot two police officers more than a week ago. It all started in the early morning hours of August 9th when officers were called to the 100 block of Ash Street in Gibson City for a report of a naked man walking in the street. Police say that man was David Jordan and Jordan reportedly shot at officers as they tried to make contact with him at his home. The house then burst into flames. Reports say searchers have sifted through the remains of the house and no human remains were found. Officials continue to look for Jordan who's thought to be armed and dangerous.