Regional Briefs – July 8, 2018

New Law Mandating Mental Health Education Takes Effect

ALBANY – New York state elementary, middle and high schools must teach mental health during traditional physical education and health classes under a new law that took effect last week, The Associated Press reported. The mandate is intended to help students understand when to seek help.

July 4th Fireworks Sparked Fire That Burned 2 Acres

VINELAND, N.J. – Fireworks set off by a Fourth of July reveler sparked a fire that destroyed 14 junk vehicles and 2 acres of woods, The Associated Press reported. Richard Caulford, 55, was arrested Friday with about 60 explosive canister shell type-fireworks at his home.

Pickup Truck Driver Injured When Truck Runs Him Over

MANCHESTER, N.J. – A pickup truck driver attempting to push a disabled vehicle onto a trailer Wednesday was struck and seriously injured when the pickup rolled over him, The Associated Press reported. Robert Bading suffered serious head injuries.

Lightning Sparks Blaze That Destroyed 16 Condo Units

EDGEWATER PARK, N.J. – A lightning strike is suspected as the cause of a fire that destroyed 16 apartment building units Tuesday afternoon, NJ.com reported. Several firefighters were taken to a hospital for heat issues and one minor injury.

Cuomo Drops Plan to Build Long Island Sound Tunnel

ALBANY – Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Thursday dropped a proposal to build a tunnel under Long Island Sound after local officials criticized the estimated $55 billion cost and its effect on traffic, the Journal News reported. The tunnel would have connected Westchester and Long Island.