Dead Puppy In Backpack | Prayers For LA | 'Virtual Kidnapping' Scams

On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from all across New York. Here's a roundup of some of the most-read stories, from the worst situations imaginable to most wonderful, across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.

Dead Puppy Found In Backpack In Wooded Area: SPCA

The severely emaciated carcass belonged to either a French or English bulldog between six months and one year old, Chief Roy Gross says.

As Wildfires Rage In Los Angeles, Miles Away, A Mother Prays

There's no feeling more helpless than watching images of burning homes and hillsides flash across TVs screens — and your son is miles away.

Firefighters Extinguish Blaze At Daycare: Police

Firefighters battled a blaze in a home that doubled as a daycare and went up in flames on Wednesday, police say.

Woman And 9-Year-Old Stabbed With Kitchen Knife: Police

A man faces multiple charges including attempted murder, police say.

Teenager Killed In Fire: Police

The 18-year-old was pulled from the blaze by firefighters, police said.

Police Officer Charged With Felony Child Sex Abuse: Attorney

"The allegations are as bizarre as they are unimaginable." - Anthony La Pinta, defense attorney

2 Men Arrested During Illegal Speed Contest; Police

The drivers were weaving in and out of traffic at more than 100 mph on the Long Island Expressway, police say.

'Absolute Hero': Officer Fights For His Life After LI High-Speed Chase

Officer Brendon Gallagher is fighting for his life after a high-speed crash 2 years after surviving an on-duty stabbing, police say.

Professional Bull Riding Finds New Home At UBS Arena

The New York Mavericks will have three nights of action at the Belmont Park venue in September.

$70,000 Fraudulent Check Deposited At Bank: Police

He faces a count of grand larceny and criminal possession of a forged instrument, police said.

Multiplex Ends 30-Year Run

Showcase Cinema de Lux Broadway shut on Sunday.

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Tom Hanks Loves Typewriters — And An Exhibit Displays His Collection

Tom Hanks loves typewriters — a lot. Here's a chance to see 35 typewriters from his personal collection at an exhibit.

'Operation Bloodhound' Yields Results In War Against Animal Abuse: DA

"Our fight to enforce laws against animal cruelty is not confined to courtroom walls."

Correctional Facility Goes Blue To Raise Sex Trafficking Awareness

"Human trafficking is happening in Suffolk County and in communities across the country."

'Pure Excitement': Charity Gifts PS5 To Girl Battling Cancer, Fulfilling Christmas Wish

"It was very nice of her to give me that big gift, and she doesn't even know me," Charlee, 8, said of the charity's founder.

Charges In Connection With Case Of Missing Girl's Case: Police

The investigation is continuing, police say.

Best On-Time Performance In 2024 For LIRR: Hochul

It was the railroad's best year, aside from the COVID pandemic, in its nearly 200-year history, officials say.

'Unconscionable': Man Who Sexually Abused His Children Faces Decades In Prison: DA

The children did not report the abuse for fear of being taken away from their family and separated from their siblings, the DA said.

Sentencing Soon For Ex-LI Scout Leader Charged With Child Porn: Feds

The man, who also worked for Southold Town and waged an unsuccessful campaign for town supervisor, is slated for sentencing this month.

New 'Banner Program Set To Honor Veterans, Heroes

Here's how to sponsor a veteran and honor their dedicated service.

LI's Billy Crystal Sees Pacific Palisades Home Destroyed By Wildfire

"We know in time it will rise again. It is our home," Crystal said of rebuilding.

Jimmy Carter's National Day Of Mourning: 'A Man Of Faith In Action'

"Today, we built houses in his honor." On Thursday, the world remembered President Jimmy Carter.

3 Macy's Stores To Close On Long Island

With 66 Macy's locations set to shutter, see what stores on Long Island will close their doors this year.

Man Dies After Slamming Into Retaining Wall In Parking Lot: PD

He hit the retaining wall at a high rate of speed, police say.

Body Of Missing Man Found In Woods: PD

The man was last seen in October, police say.

Upgraded Charges For Woman In Head-On DWI Crash That Claimed Grandma: DA

District Attorney Ray Tierney says his office "will seek justice for the family of Esther Guy."

School District Warns Of 'Virtual Kidnapping Extortion Call' Scams

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used to replicate family members' voices in an attempt to convince the victim that the threat is legitimate.

Firefighters Save Man's Best Friend From Frigid Predicament

The dog fell through the ice at a golf club in a water hazard, and needed a leg up from rescuers to get free before it was too late.

Victim Killed Was Due In Court In $1M DoorDash Scam

The 22-year-old man shot to death was due in court on charges related to a scheme to defraud drivers, according to officials.

Suspected Cocaine Dealer Trying To Flee Runs Over Cop's Feet: Police

During a chase by law enforcement from several jurisdictions, he threw a bag of "presumed" cocaine out the window, police said.

Violence At AutoZone: Fight Leaves 1 Shot Dead, 1 With Stab Wounds

Anyone with information about the violence is asked to contact authorities.

Drunk Driver Rear-Ends Trooper Who Had Another Car Pulled Over: NYSP

Four people, including two troopers, were taken to the hospital with minor injuries as a result of the New Year's Day crash.

Gun, Bullets, Drugs Among Items Found During LI Traffic Stop: Police

He was arrested and charged on Sunday night, police said.

Cheer Team Heads To Nationals

The varsity cheer team has earned its place at nationals at Disney World in February.

Eatery Set To Close For Reasons 'Beyond Our Control'

The restaurant's final day in business is Jan. 15.