Fossilized Mastodon | 7th Gilgo Victim | Brutal Carjacking Death: PD

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.

Fossilized Mastodon Unearthed In Prehistoric Find

A window to prehistoric times, unearthed in a backyard, is the first such discovery in over a decade.

Community Rallies To Help Family Recover After Fire Guts Holiday Lights House

A GoFundMe has been organized to help a family who's starting over after their home was destroyed in a devastating fire.

Star Wars Barber's Free Cuts For Christmas: 'My Only Way Of Giving Back'

Though he offers his "catch you next time" code year-round, the cuts have a way of removing one less thing for people to worry about.

Man Dies After Brutal Carjacking And Assault: Police

A man died after suffering a brutal assault and carjacking, police say.

Bagel Shop Closes After Loss Of Beloved Wife: 'The Love Of My Life'

"She touched so many hearts. She always had a smile on her face."

Dad Of Missing Teen 'Fears The Worst' As Search Leads Run Out

"Yes, I have a bad feeling but can't give up hope." - Frank Gervsi says of his daughter, Emma, who has never been away from home so long.

Woman's Dog Robbed By Force While On Walk: PD

A woman is charged with robbery and stalking, police said.

As Drone Sightings Increase, Feds To Track Them In New York: Hochul

The governor is calling on congress to pass the Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act.

'None Of The Victims Deserved To Die': Gilgo Families Unite In Grief

In an emotional outpouring, family members for each Gilgo victim handed the parents of Valerie Mack flowers after court. "We all love you."

Man Pleads Guilty To Robbery After Facebook Marketplace Scam: DA

The man offered to sell a PS5 but then tried driving away with the buyer's cash while the buyer was hanging from the car, the DA said.

Pedestrian Dies After Being Struck: Police

The woman, 73, died after being struck, police say.

Man Preyed On Women's Addictions To Coerce Them Into Sex Work: DA

He reportedly used physical force, narcotics, and more to get 3 victims to engage in sexual acts with 3rd parties in exchange for money: DA

John’s Crazy Socks; King Quality Join To Help Christmas Magic Aid Homeless Children

King Quality provided a marketing grant to Christmas Magic, while John's Crazy Socks will donate pairs of socks to children in need.

Aide Saves Life Of Student Choking On Her Lunch

The aide's actions prevented a potential tragedy, the district wrote. "We offer our deepest gratitude," the district stated.

Residents Urged To Watch Out For Fake Donation Bins

"Unfortunately, this time of year is also when we begin to see this particular type of scam," supervisor said.

Family Raises $9K For Angela's House In Brother's Memory

Jake Spadalik died 10 years ago after outliving his life expectancy for years, due in part to the "over the top care" Angela's House gave.

Deceased Whale Found In Surf

The whale was found at Napeague State Park.

Long Island Woman Kept Dog In Filth, 100s Of Dead Flies, Piles Of Garbage: SPCA

It had large areas of missing fur, red and irritated skin, open sores around the ears, overgrown nails, Chief Roy Gross says.

Legacy Of Coach, Killed In Tragic Crash, Honored At Team's 1st Game Without Him

"The hard-fought victory was a perfect way to honor the life and legacy of 'Coach D' in a season the Colonials have now dedicated to him."

Drones Reported Near Brookhaven National Laboratory Friday: Officials

Police could not confirm any flying over the lab's site or anyone operating a drone from the site, a lab spokesman says.

'Beautiful Family' Loses Home In Devastating Fire, Residents Rally To Help

A GoFundMe has been organized to help a family whose home was destroyed in a devastating fire.

Man Sexually Abused Girlfriend's Daughter For 5 Years: DA

A 60-year-old man was found guilty after sexually abusing his girlfriend's young daughter for 5 years, the DA says.

100+ Assault Weapons And Handguns Surrendered At Gun Buyback Event

More than 100 assault weapons, handguns, and long guns were turned in at a gun buyback where money was exchanged for firearms.

Sarah Grace Foundation Ends 2024 'Strong,' Looks To 2025

The cancer charity collected clothing; held a magic show; received a grant from Dunkin'; provided goodies to children with cancer, and more.

Lawmakers Propose Making It Illegal For Spectators To Watch Street Takeovers

County Executive Ed Romaine says Suffolk is "stepping up to the plate to address a problem before it gets out of hand."

Flu Declared 'Prevalent' Across NYS: Health Department

Health care workers who have not received this year's flu vaccine must wear masks in certain health care settings, the state declared.

'We Need A Christmas Miracle': Family Loses Everything In Fire

The grandson of an iconic Long Island civil rights leader who recently died, lost everything in a devastating fire — and needs help.

'Shameless' Fake Attorney Sentenced For Scammed Immigrants: DA

Tania Gonzalez misrepresented herself as an attorney, bilking clients of more than $40,000, and must pay restitution, Nassau DA says.

Search Continues For Man Accused In Dad's Slaying: Police

All leads are being followed up on, a police spokeswoman says.