Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on March 31, 2026
Genesee County Sheriff’s Report: Multiple Arrests Across Region
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office reports several recent arrests across the area.
Brandi Reuben, 30, of Alabama, is charged with aggravated harassment after allegedly sending repeated threatening messages. She was taken to jail for arraignment.
Bailey Burns, 26, of Batavia, faces multiple charges including obstructing governmental administration and several vehicle violations following a traffic stop. Burns will appear in Batavia City Court April 7.
Hailey Olender, 21, of Tully, is charged with aggravated DWI and several traffic offenses after allegedly driving with a blood alcohol content over .18 percent. She is due in Town of Batavia Court April 9.
Michael Russell, 63, of Pavilion, was charged with DWI and traffic violations and will appear in Pavilion Town Court April 22.
James Boyce, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and drug possession after an alleged shoplifting incident.
Lucas Booth, 33, of Bergen, faces drug possession, trespass, and larceny charges, while Macy Paladino, 44, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny in connection with the theft of an Apple Watch.
All suspects are scheduled to appear in local courts at later dates.
Bathroom Fire Reported in Stafford, Multiple Crews Respond
Fire crews responded to a reported bathroom fire early yesterday afternoon in Stafford.
The call came in around 1:10 p.m. at a home on East Morganville Road, where first firefighters on scene reported visible flames inside the residence.
RG&E was also called in after a gas line was reported damaged.
Multiple departments assisted on scene, including Byron and South Byron, Elba, Le Roy, the Town and City of Batavia, along with Mercy EMS.
Officials on scene limited further access as crews worked to contain the situation.
Markets Swing as Oil Prices Climb Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict
Financial markets are on edge as uncertainty in the Middle East continues to drive volatility on Wall Street.
Stocks were mixed Monday, with the S&P 500 slipping, the Nasdaq down, and the Dow managing slight gains. The uneven trading comes as oil prices surged, with U.S. crude climbing above $100 per barrel, raising concerns about inflation and global supply disruptions.
Investors are reacting to continued instability tied to the war involving Iran, including expanded regional tensions and uncertainty over whether oil can flow freely through the Strait of Hormuz.
President Donald Trump added to the mixed signals, citing progress toward a potential resolution, while also warning of possible military escalation if a deal is not reached.
The back-and-forth has created sharp swings in markets, leaving investors cautious as they wait for clearer direction on both the conflict and its economic impact.
Freeman Named Firefighter of the Year in Pavilion
Shane Freeman has been named Firefighter of the Year by the Pavilion Fire Department.
Freeman, who also serves as a lieutenant, responded to 115 calls over the past year and was recognized for his dedication and commitment to the community.
Cheyanne Powers was honored as EMS Person of the Year for her work as EMS captain, while Paul Daugherty was recognized for 50 years of service.
Ken Weaver led the department with 223 calls, earning top responder honors.
The awards were presented during the department’s annual dinner Saturday at the Community Fire Hall.
Study Finds Americans Misjudge What Impacts Climate Change Most
A new study shows many Americans misunderstand which everyday actions have the biggest impact on climate change.
Researchers found people often overestimate the benefits of things like recycling or using energy-efficient appliances, while underestimating higher-impact behaviors such as flying or eating meat.
Experts say this disconnect comes from visibility — people see recycling happen, but don’t directly see carbon emissions from activities like air travel.
The study also highlights surprising factors, including the environmental impact of owning dogs due to their meat-based diets, which many participants didn’t consider.
Researchers say better education and clearer information can help people make more effective choices when it comes to reducing their carbon footprint.