Good morning, Belleville.

The St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit warned locals against homemade fireworks after a firework exploded in Florissant last week and killed one man.

Sergeant Jon Martin said the dangerous devices can have up to 500 times the explosive power of legal fireworks and can lead to Class D felony charges with penalties of up to seven years in prison.

Sammy Shafer Jr., charged with first-degree murder and hiring a hitman to kill his wife’s girlfriend, filed a motion on May 27 to move his trial out of Madison County to find an impartial jury—Judge Tim Berkeley has not ruled on the request and the state's attorney has not responded.

A motorcyclist fleeing a traffic stop died when his bike crashed at the Pontoon Road intersection after speeding north on Maryville Road—Granite City police said he had an active warrant for a parole violation and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Metro Transit said on Thursday that its new policy for MetroLink stations kept turnstiles open when security guards left their posts—remote operators used assistance buttons so riders avoided delays.

The measure is part of a $52 million security upgrade—an effort spurred by frequent passenger complaints.

Frida’s Cocina relocated to Fairview Heights in September from its location near Scott Air Force Base and now offers its signature Frida’s Burrito filled with carne asada, rice, beans, queso blanco, crumbled Taki chips, guacamole, and sour cream.

The burrito features two sauces—a rich mole and a searing habanero salsa—that deliver bold flavor while owner Job Toledo said the family-run restaurant draws diners from O’Fallon.

Hearts 'n Hands Quilt Guild Quilt Show

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Whiteside Middle School — Cost TBA — Explore over 250 beautiful quilts along with vendors, demonstrations, and special exhibits.