Manhattan's Most-Read Stories Of 2024: See What Made Headlines

MANHATTAN, IL — Whew, what a year.

As we send off 2024, let's revisit some of the local headlines that grabbed your attention.

Presented below in no particular order, here’s a recap of the most-read Manhattan Patch stories of 2024. Let's take a look back.

Manhattan Police Officer Forgets Gun At Lockport Restaurant: Report

A Manhattan police officer could face disciplinary action after leaving their gun behind at a Lockport business.

Superintendent Made Sexual Advances To Ex-Manhattan Schools Staffer, Lawsuit Alleges

In a federal lawsuit riddled with twists and turns, a former Manhattan District 114 employee has accused former leadership of discrimination based on rejected sexual propositions, sexual trysts and a denied promotion. The suit comes 10 months after the district's superintendent and HR director abruptly resigned.

Lambs Die In Peotone Barn Fire: Manhattan Fire District Chief

A barn fire in Peotone killed at least two lambs, with all people evacuated safely, Manhattan Fire Protection Chief Steve Malone said.

Manhattan Family's Loss, Grief Inspire Nonprofit For Others Like Them

Ryne Landuyt was just 3 years old when he met his sister, and just a little more than a month later, she was gone.

Born at 24 weeks and weighing just 14 ounces on Sept. 16, 2022, Sophie Landuyt fought mightily against time and the odds, until her tiny body surrendered. It was an immeasurable loss for the tight-knit family of Ryne, and parents Tim and Katy. New Manhattan residents Tim and Katy had endured IVF to conceive both children—and they would not try for another....

Family Roots Peaceful Grounds Coffee Company In Manhattan

A mother-daughter, stepfather and brother team will bring their Peaceful Grounds Coffee Company to space in Manhattan Station.

Driver Of Car Hit By Train In Manhattan Went Around Gates: Metra

The driver of a car struck by a Metra train Tuesday evening in Manhattan had attempted to drive around the gates, according to reports.

Manhattan Rescue Farm Pleads For Public's Help Amid Funding Shortfall

Manhattan's HHH Ranch saw a huge dropoff in donations in 2024, forcing the suspension of their scholarship program.

'All On His Own': Manhattan Man, 19, With Autism Authors Book

Nathan Trull has always been creative, and his focus and dedication brought his dream to fruition, his mother said.

Bring On The Brisket: Arrowhead Ales Owner To Open BBQ Spot In Manhattan

Mike Bacon's been thinking about barbecue for a while, and he's even slipped it into his Arrowhead Ales' menu on occasion. But it took some beers over tacos at Soundgrowler Brewing in Tinley Park, for him to really get the idea cooking.

"I decided to start exploring the option of a side project focused only on a small but interesting BBQ menu as well as catering," Bacon said. The Manhattan resident and Arrowhead Ales Brewing Company owner brainstormed with creative director Matt Sharp.

"It was then Arrowhead Smoke Works was born."

'This One Is It': Boutique Owner To Open Second Location In Manhattan

Size-inclusive boutique Posh West owner Sadie Smith West couldn't wait to bring her kind of specialized shopping experience to Manhattan.