Good morning, Belleville.

Three residents — 94-year-old Sylvester Reeves, her son Pierre Manley Sr., and Cheryle M.

Johnson — died from smoke inhalation when a house fire broke out Friday morning at 3316 Bond Avenue in East St. Louis; firefighters took two and a half hours to control the blaze.

Gabriel P. Calixto, a 27-year-old with Metro East ties, was captured in Mexico after fleeing charges for the July 11 stabbing death of his girlfriend, Emma Shafer, in Springfield + he will be returned to face trial for first-degree murder and aggravated domestic battery.

On August 23, 49-year-old Harold Schaedler was fatally struck by a car while riding his motorized bike near Foley Drive on Illinois Route 157, and Cahokia Heights police are asking anyone with information on a black 4-door sedan—one with unidentifiable plates—to come forward.

Former state senator Darren Bailey is weighing a run for governor in 2026 as he cites worsening crime and rising bills as key concerns for Illinois.

He defended his support for sending federal agents to Chicago — stressing recent crime numbers — and said he will decide in a few weeks.

On Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, several Metro-East high school football teams kicked off their season as most games started at 7 p.m.—Edwardsville hosted Glenwood while Granite City and Marquette looked to improve after last season.

Bulls & Barrels Rodeo

2-3 a.m. — Tri-Township Park — $15+ — Experience a thrilling rodeo with live music, food trucks, and fun activities for the whole family.

Belleville Main Street Marathon

7 a.m. — Downtown Belleville — Registration fee required — Experience America's longest Main Street in a Boston Marathon-qualifying race.

Seinfeld Trivia Night

5-8 p.m. — Shoehorn Brewing — $15/person — Compete in eight rounds of trivia dedicated to the beloved comedy series Seinfeld.