Good morning, Belleville.

A pickup truck crashed into the Hardee's restaurant on Petroff Drive in Caseyville on Wednesday night, leaving no injuries and forcing the eatery to close until repairs are completed — fire and police quickly responded to the scene.

A Hardee’s in Caseyville was heavily damaged when a pickup truck crashed into its lobby at about 7:40 p.m. Wednesday, and firefighters and police confirmed no injuries while the restaurant was evacuated and will remain closed until repairs are made.

Entrepreneurs Samantha Long and Dr. Nikki Meredith created an at-home emergency kit for dogs that includes vet-approved medications and a step-by-step guide to help pet owners manage emergencies—such as stings, bites, and allergies.

The kit launched in 2021 and gained strong demand after a TikTok mention led to 500 kits sold overnight.

A WARN notice filed with the Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity stated that the Hubbell-Wiegmann plant in Freeburg will lay off 110 employees starting in September as it prepares to close in mid‑2026.

The shutdown will shift jobs to facilities in Aurora and Juarez — a move that may lessen local spending.

Today, the American Lung Association released its 2025 State of the Air report showing that nearly half of Americans live with unhealthy air and 25 million more people are at risk than in past years.

The report shows the St. Louis region now ranks 21st for ozone and 17th for particle pollution — a change that may worsen air quality as extreme heat, drought and wildfire smoke affect the area this summer.

IDOT announced pavement patching on North Belt West from West Main Street to Illinois 161 will require daytime lane closures starting Monday, May 5, weather permitting.

Motorists are advised to use alternate routes and slow down as they approach the work zone + the project is expected to finish this summer.

Strawberry Festival

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Downtown Belleville — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful day of strawberry-themed fun with shopping, eating, and drinking.

Laura's Run 4 Kids

7:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. — Tower Grove Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate fitness and community with a fun 5K and family activities while supporting local students.

Art on the Square 2025

4-9 p.m. — Veterans Memorial — Free admission — Experience a vibrant celebration of art with over 100 artists, live music, and activities for kids.

Senior Day Celebration

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Programs and Services for Older Persons — Free entry — Shop, dine, and enjoy an after-party with fun and giveaways in Downtown Belleville.