Former MSU Student Charged in Campus Meth Lab Investigation
Authorities are releasing new details about a man accused of operating a methamphetamine lab on Michigan State University’s campus.
The suspect, 31-year-old Xin Tong, is a former student who was identified using an expired student ID, according to court documents. The case came to light after students and staff were evacuated from Wells Hall on Monday when an unknown chemical was discovered inside the building.
Investigators say Tong was arrested Sunday while carrying multiple bags. Inside, authorities found bottles containing substances commonly used in the production of methamphetamine. The investigation remains ongoing.
MSU Commencement Begins with High-Profile Speakers
Meanwhile, celebrations are underway on campus as Michigan State University kicks off its spring commencement ceremonies at the Breslin Center.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is among the keynote speakers, joined by Agentic Connect founder Christopher Fernandez and distinguished professor Ann Austin. Thousands of graduates and their families are expected to attend the ceremonies throughout the week.
Lansing Leaders Push for Return-to-Office Policies
In Lansing, business leaders are urging lawmakers to take stronger action to bring workers back to downtown offices.
The Lansing Regional Chamber testified Thursday before a Michigan House subcommittee examining in-person work policies. Chamber President and CEO Tim Damon emphasized the importance of a daytime workforce to the city’s economic health.
“Without that daytime workforce, none of this works,” Damon said, adding that vacant office buildings should be sold if employees do not return.
Republican lawmakers argue more needs to be done to reverse remote work trends that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Man Re-Sentenced in 1986 Murder Case
A judge has re-sentenced Roger Ruthruff, who was convicted in a 1986 murder, to 40 to 60 years in prison.
Ruthruff was 18 years old at the time of the crime. The new sentence follows a Michigan Supreme Court ruling requiring re-sentencing for individuals who were young at the time of their offenses and originally received life sentences.
Having already served 40 years, Ruthruff is now eligible for parole.
Michigan Senate Approves $88 Billion Budget
The Michigan Senate has approved an $88 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
The plan includes increased per-pupil education funding but excludes Governor Whitmer’s proposed $800 million in “sin taxes.” The House passed its version of the budget last week, setting up further negotiations before a final agreement is reached.
Voter Roll Cleanup Continues Across Michigan
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced continued efforts to remove inactive voters from state rolls.
Since 2019, more than 2.1 million inactive registrations have been identified, with 1.5 million already removed. An additional 600,000 registrations are expected to be canceled in 2027 and 2029.
Officials encourage residents who haven’t voted in several years to check their registration status.
Leadership Change at Detroit Auto Show
The Detroit Auto Show is undergoing a leadership transition as it prepares for future events.
The Detroit Auto Dealers Association announced that Executive Director Sam Klemet will step down after two years in the role. A search is now underway for his replacement as planning continues for the 2027 show.
