Regional Briefs – November 26, 2015

Space Heater Likely Sparked Fatal NJ Blaze

FAIR LAWN, N.J. – Police are blaming a space heater for sparking a fire that killed two women and injured two others in an independent living facility early Tuesday, The Record reported. The space heater had been removed from the property because it’s prohibited. But the fire chief said that people are going to do what they want even after being told about fire dangers.

Workers Installing New Water Valve in Hoboken After Break

HOBOKEN, N.J. – Workers on Wednesday finally stopped the flow of water three days after a pipe and valve broke in Hoboken, The Associated Press reported. They installed a new valve, which will restore full water pressure. This has allowed crews to start repair work on the broken Hoboken water main, which will be replaced with a new resilient 24-inch main.

Moody’s: Hudson Rail Tunnel Gaining Momentum

ALBANY – A leading ratings agency said Tuesday that an agreement between New York, New Jersey and federal transportation officials on paying for a new Hudson River rail tunnel shows there’s “growing political momentum” behind the long-needed project, The Associated Press reported. Moody’s Investors Services called the project “vital” to the regional economy.

Review Board Says Cops Unlawfully Arrested Player

NEW YORK – NYC’s Civilian Complaint Review Board ruled Monday that police had no right to arrest sports figure Thabo Sefolosha in April but that officers didn’t use excessive force when his leg was broken in a struggle, The Associated Press reported. Prosecutors had said he disobeyed police orders to clear the street after another player was stabbed.

NY Declares Victory in Alzheimer’s Drug Lawsuit

ALBANY – New York’s attorney general is dropping an antitrust lawsuit against a drug manufacturer after his office blocked what he alleged was an attempt to force Alzheimer’s patients to switch to a newer patented drug instead of cheaper generic alternatives, The Associated Press reported. Allergan PLC agreed to pay $172,000 to cover some of the state’s legal fees.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the November 26th, 2015 edition of Hamodia.