U.P. Snowmobile Death Toll stands at 7 in just over 2 months – plus four critically hurt: The names of two men in that fiery, fatal crash in Sault Ste. Marie, MI on Monday have been released

URGENT URGENT URGENT – Upper Peninsula Breaking News Bulletin – 3-2-18 – 5:55 a.m. ET

Names, a little more info is released on that horrific snowmobile, Gator tracked vehicle crash on Monday in Chippewa County

 

Snowmobile vs Gator Crash Trail 8

John Deer Gator

Snowmobile vs Gator Crash Trail 8

 

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Sault Ste. Marie MI) – Names and more information are coming out five days after that violent fiery crash involving a snowmobile and a tracked vehicle pulling a groomer in Chippewa County, MI.

A Chippewa County man who was killed and a downstate Ada man was critically burned in the crash on Snowmobile Trail Number 8 in the area of the Algonquin Ski Trail at about 10:40 a.m. ET Monday morning, Feb. 26, 2018 in Sault Ste. Marie.

65-year-old Roy Lee Pederson, of Paradise, MI was killed at the scene of the crash. At least 7 people have died in just over two months in U.P. snowmobile accidents. Pederson was a State Park Ranger with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, according to his obituary.

“He loved everything to do with the outdoors. He also loved to go to his grandsons’ hockey games. If they were playing, he was there!”

Scroll down to see the full obituary. Memorial services will not be held.

The driver of the 2014 Yamaha snowmobile was 58-year-old Mark S. Goss of downstate Ada. MI. Goss was rushed to War Memorial Hospital in the Soo. Goss was later flown to Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids with severe burns.

It explains why authorities were trying to reach the AMWAY world headquarters in Ada. Goss worked at AMWAY, and his namesake son interned at the company.

Pedersen was driving a 2015 John Deere Gator side by side, equipped with tracks. He had been grooming a nearby cross country ski trail when the grooming vehicle and the snowmobile collided.

There have been at least 7 snowmobile fatalities in just over two months during a horrific snowmobiling season on Upper Peninsula Trails. At least four people have been critically injured in U.P. snowmobile crashes since mid-December 2017.

After U.P. Breaking News exposed the police audio from the accident – officials finally released a vague statement that has appeared in some of the U.P. media.

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Previous stories and links on 2017-2018 Winter U.P. Snowmobiling season – listen to the police audio of the Soo wreck:

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/02/19/back-to-back-upper-peninsula-snowmobile-crashes-rescue-of-a-snowmobiler-who-flipped-his-sled-on-lake-superior-in-the-eastern-u-p-then-a-sledder-injured-on-a-trial-in-negaunee-township

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/02/26/snowmobile-trail-tragedy-in-chippewa-county-mi

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/02/28/the-coverup-2-over-48-hours-after-the-crash-media-has-not-been-told-crash-happened-especially-terrible-crash-in-sault-ste-marie-mi-fatal-crash-horror-on-mon-feb-26-2018-in-the-soo/

Obituary:
65-year-old Roy L. Pederson, of Paradise, MI, passed away unexpectedly in an accident on February 26, 2018. Roy was born on December 7, 1952 in St. Johns, MI, to Lee and Sue Pederson. He attended Central Michigan University where he met and married his wife, Diane, on May 21, 1977. Roy enjoyed his work as a State Park Ranger with the Department of Natural Resources, as he loved everything to do with the outdoors. He also loved to go to his grandsons’ hockey games. If they were playing, he was there!
Roy is survived by his wife Diane, his daughter Debbie (Eddie) Bowers, his son Jeromy, and grandchildren Eddie, Ian, Blake, Lucas Roy, Marlee, and Kyanite, a niece Sarah Messer, sister-in-law Patty (Tim) Shine, sister-in-law Karen Lang, brother-in-law Mike (Annmarie) Mackley, and special friends Luane and Cathy Lumbert.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gene.
He also has a large extended family with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
According to Roy’s wishes, a memorial service is not planned. Arrangements are being made by the Hovie Funeral Home in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Memorials may be made to the family to be donated in memory of Roy to a charity or organization that was important to him.

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Snowmobile Fatalities 2017-2018 winter:

Jamie Steen

Randy Alan Liddicoat

Michele Marie ‘Shelly’ Megard

Jason Craig Bashor

46-year-old Michael James Zanlungo of Harrison Township, MI

51-year-old Douglas Charles Hawes of Saginaw, MI

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Tues., Jan. 16, 2018 – Chippewa County, MI

Douglas Charles Hawes

51-year-old Douglas Charles Hawes of Saginaw, MI

Hawes was riding his sled on Snowmobile Trail #8 (between M-123, Curley Lewis Highway) during the noon hour on that Tuesday in Chippewa County.

Hawes missed a curve and struck a tree traveling very fast. Speed and unfamiliarity of snowmobile trails (surprise curves) is a big factor in many of the deaths. Tremendous speeds that kill instantly. Hawes apparently did not see the curve until it was too late. Hawes and his sled then slammed into trees.

Hawes was married and leaves behind a wife and daughter.

https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/douglas-hawes-obituary?pid=1000000187881351&view=guestbook

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Wed., Jan. 10, 2018 – southern Houghton County, MI

Jamie Travis Steen

41-year-old Jamie Travis Steen of rural Curtiss, Wisconsin
Killed after losing control of sled on a curve on Trail 8 and hit a tree in remote Houghton County – off M-28
Factors include speed

Steen was married and the father of four daughters
He was in the construction business all his lifr and owned SJS Excavating, a sewer and sewer line construction company in Curtiss, WI.
A memorial service will be held this Wed., Jan. 17, 2018.

http://maurinaschilling.com/lifestory/clouds/home.html?Year=2018&Month=1&Day=10&FirstName=Jamie&LastName=Steen

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Sat., Dec. 30, 2017 – Gogebic County, MI

Randy Alan Liddicoat

52-year-old Randy Alan Liddicoat of Evansville, Wisconsin
Victim was trying to cross U.S.-2 at Ramsay crossing about 1 p.m. in Gogebic County – struck by an eastbound pickup truck.
Factors include low visibility/snowy conditions

Liddicoat loved snowmobiling and attending Wisconsin Badger football games with his two sons. Liddicoat was active in fishing, golf, Midget and Sprint car racing, and other sports including still holding high school cross country records. He loved his two dogs (Olive and Henry) and enjoyed relaxing with family and friends.

A farmer in his younger years, Liddicoat worked at Covance Laboratories and Millwork Specialists of Wisconsin in Madison. He was a co-owner of Liddicoat Lawncare Services LLC with his sons Brett and Blake. A memorial service was held on Sat., Jan. 13, 2018.

http://www.wardhurtley.com/obituaries/Randy-Alan-Liddicoat?obId=2853600#/obituaryInfo

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Fri., Dec. 29, 2017 – Gogebic County, MI

Michele Marie ‘Shelly’ Megard

51-year-old Michele Marie “Shelly” Megard of Hudson, Wisconsin
Riding with other sledders in a group on an unplowed right of way on Powerhorn Road – north of U.S.-2 in Bessemer Township, MI.
Victim lost control of her machine about 11:30 a.m., overturned in ditch and was run over by another snowmobile.
Factors include visibility/snowy weather

Visitation and a celebration of life was held Sat., Jan. 13, 2018.

http://www.lakesidememorialchapel.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=4507135&fh_id=12415

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Wed., Dec. 27, 2017 – Luce County, MI

Michael James Zanlungo

46-year-old Michael James Zanlungo of Harrison Township, MI

Zanlungo was killed while riding Trail #9 traveling northbound in McMillan Township on a Wednesday afternoon in the last week of 2017.
Zanlungo’s sled hit a log on the trail and the sled careened into trees.
The crash happened on snowmobile Trail #9 in Luce County – west of County Road 407.
Among those on the scene were Michigan State Police of the Sault Ste. Marie Post and Luce County EMS.

http://wujekcalcaterra.tributes.com/obituary/show/Michael-James-Zanlungo-105645720

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Sun., Dec. 17, 2017 – Alger County, MI

Jason Craig Bashor

34-year-old Jason Craig Bashor of Pocomoke City, Maryland

Shaena Leigh Hicks

A friend and co-worker in meteorology – 34-year-old Shaena Leigh Hicks of Greenbackville, Virginia suffered serious injuries in the crash.

Both were on travel assignment in the U.P. Hicks is a meteorologist at Orbital ATK in Virginia – a company that does work in military satellites, space travel, missiles and defense systems. Hicks, a married mother of two, is a native of Roanoke, VA.

The pair was traveling together in separate snowmobiles – lost control on Trail #8 curve, left the trail, struck multiple trees- about a mile west of M-94 in Shingleton, MI.

Factors include excessive speed and operational inexperience.

Jason Craig Bashor

A father of two, Bashor served in the Navy from 2002 until 2012.

Bashor was currently an Electrical Tech 3 working as a Senior Ground Validation Systems Technician for A.S.R.C. Fed. Space and Defense (AS&D) at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility in Wallops Island, VA

Bashor was on a travel assignment in Michigan.

Funeral services were held on Sat., Dec. 23, 2017 in Pocomoke City, MD.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/delmarvanow/obituary.aspx?pid=187577174

https://www.orbitalatk.com/
https://www.nasa.gov/centers/wallops/home
https://www.nasa.gov/centers/wallops/visitorcenter
http://asrcfederal.com/news/asrc-federal-space-and-defense-selected-nasa-wallops-engineering-contract
http://wrkr.com/keweenaw-rocket-range/

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https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2017/12/17/fatal-sunday-snowmobile-crash-in-alger-county-mi-one-of-several-upper-peninsula-snowmobile-accidents-this-weekend/

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/16/tragedy-on-the-trails-terrible-snowmobile-crash-reported-in-chippewa-county

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/15/fiery-early-monday-morning-snowmobile-crash-sends-sledder-to-ironwood-mi-hospital-with-serious-injuries-funerals-held-this-weekend-and-one-planned-this-week-for-three-of-the-four-people-killed-in-u

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U.P. Snowmobile info

http://www.upsnowmobiling.com/trail-maps

http://www.uptravel.com/snowmobile-trail-report-54/

Snowmobile Trail Report

Western Upper Peninsula – By County

Central Upper Peninsula – By County

Eastern Upper Peninsula – By County

Jason Craig Bashor

Michele Marie ‘Shelly’ Megard

Randy Alan Liddicoat

Jamie Steen

46-year-old Michael James Zanlungo of Harrison Township, MI

51-year-old Douglas Charles Hawes of Saginaw, MI

ttps://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/17/fifth-snowmobile-fatal-crash-in-a-month-in-the-upper-peninsula-claims-life-of-saginaw-man/comment-page-1/

Tragedy on the Trails: Terrible snowmobile crash reported in Chippewa County, MI

Fiery early Monday morning snowmobile crash sends sledder to Ironwood, MI hospital with serious injuries – Funerals held this weekend and one planned this week for three of the four people killed in U.P. snowmobile crashes in past month

Recording of emergency official (sounds like law enforcement officer) who refused to go to snowmobile crash today involving a man in his 60s in Baraga County, MI

URGENT – U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 1-20-18 – 10:50 p.m. ET

Our only questions is WHY? Especially in wake of tragic snowmobile season, victim’s age and changing trail conditions

Accident protocol demands emergency officials to respond when asked – or at least until the injuries are confirmed

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Baraga County, MI) – Since mid-December 2017, its been an usually bloody snowmobile system in northern Michigan
At least five people have died in Upper Peninsula snowmobile crash – and one more critically injured and in a medical coma.

That’s why U.P. Breaking News was surprised when a dispatcher asked an emergency official to go to a crash with possible injury involving a man in his 60s.

That official refused to go citing whether he’d have to do an accident report. (Our tape recording doesn’t include a unit number – but response sounds like a law enforcement officer). We are sure the person’s voice will be recognized by somebody.

The accident was reported about 4:40 p.m. today, Sat., Jan. 20, 2018 on a snowmobile trail along M-28 near the Baraga County/Ontonagon County line in Duncan Township, MI.

In my 40 years covering police street news, I have never heard a refusal especially when it has not been confirmed the crash victim is OK. In most departments and agencies – everyone must respond (when asked) to any wreck with possible injuries – and at least until injury information is confirmed.

Its likely this is a good cop (most in the U.P. are dedicated, great cops) – however we find it incredible with the melting trails (blizzard coming) today and other factors that someone would refuse to go help and render aid.

The comment comes about 50 seconds into the short recording – the only thing we removed was the blank pauses (no audio) between dispatches.

Fifth snowmobile fatal crash in a month in the Upper Peninsula claims life of Saginaw man

U.P. Breaking News Bulletin – 1-17-18 11:45 a.m. ET

Blood on the Trails: Five people killed in a month on Upper Peninsula snowmobile trails – the latest a Saginaw, MI man

By Greg Peterson
Upper Peninsula Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Eckermann, MI) – A Saginaw, MI man on Tuesday afternoon became the fifth person to die in an Upper Peninsula snowmobile accident this winter – and in just over a month.

The crash was reported in Northwest Chippewa County about 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 16, 2018.

The wreck happened on Trail Number 8 between M-123 and W. Curley Lewis Memorial Highway – just south of Paradise, MI – not far from the Silver Creek Grill and Pub in Eckermann, MI.

Among those assisting on the scene were Whitefish Township EMS, Whitefish Township Fire, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers and the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department.

The victim – a 51-year-old Saginaw man – lost control in a curve and struck a tree along the trail. He was traveling with a group of other snowmobilers when the crash occurred.

CPR was performed by emergency officials, however the victim was dead on arrival at the Helen Newberry Joy Hospital in Newberry, MI. Trail Number 8 is the main snowmobile trail that stretches across the Upper Peninsula.

The DNR and other law enforcement is reminding sledders to slow down and drive safely in the wake of five snowmobile fatalities in the U.P. in only a month. High speed and lack of familiarity with trails that often have rapidly changing conditions especially during storms.

Many riders lose control in curves they do not expect while traveling too fast – and hit trees or other objects

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/16/tragedy-on-the-trails-terrible-snowmobile-crash-reported-in-chippewa-county-mi

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2018/01/15/fiery-early-monday-morning-snowmobile-crash-sends-sledder-to-ironwood-mi-hospital-with-serious-injuries-funerals-held-this-weekend-and-one-planned-this-week-for-three-of-the-four-people-killed-in-u

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Snowmobile Fatalities 2017-2018 winter:
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Wed., Jan. 10, 2018 – southern Houghton County, MI

Jamie Travis Steen

41-year-old Jamie Travis Steen of rural Curtiss, Wisconsin
Killed after losing control of sled on a curve on Trail 8 and hit a tree in remote Houghton County – off M-28
Factors include speed

Steen was married and the father of four daughters
He was in the construction business all his lifr and owned SJS Excavating, a sewer and sewer line construction company in Curtiss, WI.
A memorial service will be held this Wed., Jan. 17, 2018.

http://maurinaschilling.com/lifestory/clouds/home.html?Year=2018&Month=1&Day=10&FirstName=Jamie&LastName=Steen

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Sat., Dec. 30, 2017 – Gogebic County, MI

Randy Alan Liddicoat

52-year-old Randy Alan Liddicoat of Evansville, Wisconsin
Victim was trying to cross U.S.-2 at Ramsay crossing about 1 p.m. in Gogebic County – struck by an eastbound pickup truck.
Factors include low visibility/snowy conditions

Liddicoat loved snowmobiling and attending Wisconsin Badger football games with his two sons. Liddicoat was active in fishing, golf, Midget and Sprint car racing, and other sports including still holding high school cross country records. He loved his two dogs (Olive and Henry) and enjoyed relaxing with family and friends.

A farmer in his younger years, Liddicoat worked at Covance Laboratories and Millwork Specialists of Wisconsin in Madison. He was a co-owner of Liddicoat Lawncare Services LLC with his sons Brett and Blake. A memorial service was held on Sat., Jan. 13, 2018.

http://www.wardhurtley.com/obituaries/Randy-Alan-Liddicoat?obId=2853600#/obituaryInfo

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Fri., Dec. 29, 2017 – Gogebic County, MI

Michele Marie ‘Shelly’ Megard

51-year-old Michele Marie “Shelly” Megard of Hudson, Wisconsin
Riding with other sledders in a group on an unplowed right of way on Powerhorn Road – north of U.S.-2 in Bessemer Township, MI.
Victim lost control of her machine about 11:30 a.m., overturned in ditch and was run over by another snowmobile.
Factors include visibility/snowy weather

Visitation and a celebration of life was held Sat., Jan. 13, 2018.

http://www.lakesidememorialchapel.com/fh/obituaries/obituary.cfm?o_id=4507135&fh_id=12415

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Sun., Dec. 17, 2017 – Alger County, MI

Jason Craig Bashor

34-year-old Jason Craig Bashor of Pocomoke City, Maryland

Shaena Leigh Hicks

A friend and co-worker in meteorology – 34-year-old Shaena Leigh Hicks of Greenbackville, Virginia suffered serious injuries in the crash.

Both were on travel assignment in the U.P. Hicks is a meteorologist at Orbital ATK in Virginia – a company that does work in military satellites, space travel, missiles and defense systems. Hicks, a married mother of two, is a native of Roanoke, VA.

The pair was traveling together in separate snowmobiles – lost control on Trail #8 curve, left the trail, struck multiple trees- about a mile west of M-94 in Shingleton, MI.

Factors include excessive speed and operational inexperience.

Jason Craig Bashor

A father of two, Bashor served in the Navy from 2002 until 2012.

Bashor was currently an Electrical Tech 3 working as a Senior Ground Validation Systems Technician for A.S.R.C. Fed. Space and Defense (AS&D) at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility in Wallops Island, VA

Bashor was on a travel assignment in Michigan.

Funeral services were held on Sat., Dec. 23, 2017 in Pocomoke City, MD.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/delmarvanow/obituary.aspx?pid=187577174

https://upperpeninsulabreakingnews.wordpress.com/2017/12/17/fatal-sunday-snowmobile-crash-in-alger-county-mi-one-of-several-upper-peninsula-snowmobile-accidents-this-weekend/
https://www.orbitalatk.com/
https://www.nasa.gov/centers/wallops/home
https://www.nasa.gov/centers/wallops/visitorcenter
http://asrcfederal.com/news/asrc-federal-space-and-defense-selected-nasa-wallops-engineering-contract
http://wrkr.com/keweenaw-rocket-range/

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U.P. Snowmobile info

http://www.upsnowmobiling.com/trail-maps

http://www.uptravel.com/snowmobile-trail-report-54/

Snowmobile Trail Report

Western Upper Peninsula – By County

Central Upper Peninsula – By County

Eastern Upper Peninsula – By County

Jason Craig Bashor

Michele Marie ‘Shelly’ Megard

Randy Alan Liddicoat

Jamie Steen

Semi hits bull moose tonight in western Marquette County

U.P. Breaking News Bulletin y – 11-27-17 10:45 p.m. ET

Moose killed after hit by semi in Marquette County

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

Update 11:15 p.m. ET – the accident is .2 miles west of Orange Road on US-41.
The DNR is en-route.

The moose is laying on the west bound shoulder.
(Michigamme, MI) – A semi tractor trailer driver tonight reported to 911 that he had hit and killed a moose in Michigamme, MI.
The accident was reported tonight about 10:15 p.m. today, Mon., Nov. 27, 2017on U.S. Highway 41 West at Orange Road in Michigamme.

The dead is a bull moose – located on the straight away just beyond Michigamme.
The Michigan DNR has also been notified.
The moose is said to be laying off the roadway – and the trucker reported significant image – however it did not disable his truck.
No human injuries reported. If you have photo please share.

Found: Lost deer hunter located in Chippewa County

Lost hunter found in Eastern U.P. 

10:10 p.m.

The lost hunter was just found, and he is OK!

He was found a bit cold – but otherwise just fine – even EMS was not needed.

By Greg Peterson
Upper Peninsula Breaking News
News Director/Co-Owner
906-273-2433

(Eckerman, MI) – Officials in Chippewa County have launched a search for a missing elderly hunter with health issues in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

Friends reported him missing about 8:45 p.m. after two hours of searching as dark arrived on the end of the first day of the 2017 Michigan Firearms Deer Season.

Officials are staging at S. Dick Rd. and West M-28.

The lost hunter is said to be a 63-year-old man – most likely from the Lower Peninsula – who has a history of health issues including diabetes and stroke.

Michigan State Police, Trout Lake First Responders, the Michigan DNR Conservation Officers, and Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department are among those assisting in the initial search.

A ping about 6 p.m. from his phone put him further south than expected in the Trout Lake Township area.

USCG suspends search launched today after a possible mayday call

Suspended: USCG hears “mayday” – launches search in eastern U.P.

5:30 p.m. 11-11-17 update:

The USCG said tonight it has suspended it search for a possible boat in distress after looking all day Saturday(11-11-17).
Until something new happens the search is suspended definitely.

A lone boat trailer found in the DeTour marina belongs to a duck hunter – who returned safe and sound

By Greg Peterson
Upper Peninsula Breaking News
News Director/Co-Owner
906-273-2433

(DeTour Village, MI) – A large search is underway east of the Mackinac bridge for the possibility of a missing Upper Peninsula boater.

The search was launched about 7 a.m. ET today Sat., Nov. 11, 2017 after the United States Coast Guard thinks they heard a “mayday” call.

However there was no repeat of the call and nobody answered the coast guard’s repeated replies over the radio.

A USCG helicopter from Traverse City and a USCG 45-foot boat are among those searching for any victims. One vehicle and a boat trailer were found at the DeTour Village Passage boat launch. Officials are trying to see if that boater can be located. Assisting in the search are the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State Police, and the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department.

The Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department is assisting in trying to identify the owner of the vehicle found at the boat ramp.

“We received a mayday about three hours ago with no verification” that anyone is in trouble, said USCG Operation Specialist 2^nd Class Ken Decker at the USCG Soo command headquarters at about 9 a.m. ET.

This area is where Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and the St. Mary’s River all meet – east of the bridge.

“It’s the entrance to the St. Mary’s River, Petty Officer Decker said.

Officials still have not found two people who were swept off the black rocks in Marquette two weeks ago during a huge waves triggered by high winds and rain – despite repeated dives by Richmond County Dive Team.

https://www.facebook.com/US-Coast-Guard-Sector-Sault-Ste-Marie-1696676213934206

From Hell’s Highway to Powder Heaven; “Winter Wonderland” was once on Michigan license plates – Its now Snowier and Colder in da U.P. than a Witch’s Bippy – But remember sometimes snowmobile speed kills – AND THE UNHEEDED DNR WARNING

U.P. Now!

U.P. Before!

So, Snowmobilers were warned by the DNR about the bad trails last month that resulted in numerous crashes – the question is was it used much by TV, radio and newspaper – and apparently it did not get around as much as it should have within the snowmobiling community

Talk about the weather changing in 15 minutes – Upper Peninsula snowmobile trails have gone from treacherous over the New Years – to snow-covered and perfect

Speed will always be a controversial issue – causing Blood on the Trails

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Upper Peninsula of Michigan) – Slam Slam. Piles of snow!!

Today, one trail groomer in the Copper Country saw over 65 sleds this morning along.

Conditions have changed for the better and at lightening speed on the U.P. snowmobile trails, but the speed of today’s machines will always be controversial.

Snowstorm after storm this week has battered the Upper Peninsula snow belts with foot after foot of snow in some areas. These storms over past week or so – and today – were thrilling to kids as school was closed, and sent skiers and snowmobilers into that snowy fun they expect from thew U.P. Winter.

However, a horrendous and deadly snowmobile crashes marred the usually cold transition into January – as dozens of snowmobiles crashed during a week to 10-day period – roughly the last week or so of December through the New Year holiday. Victims who spoke to U.P. Breaking News insisted they were not criticizing the snowmobile groomer groups in Luce and Alger Counties. But they did not have proper warning – whether it be several stop signs or a media alert.

However, the controversy has shown that a better warning system needs to be developed after a certain number of wrecks are reported – and there should be immediate reporting to respective groups. U.P. Breaking News can be called anytime of the day or night to issue a warning – and the rest of the media would likely make sure the info got out far and wide.

So, nobody feels worse than snowmobile officials in the U.P. about the terrible injuries caused recently on the trails. In fact the trails were also terrible in northern Wisconsin – where there were numerous bad accidents – those areas along the U.P. border.

Hopefully this type of lousy, melting snowmobile conditions will never happened again – and at least be identified quicker (thru an immediate central reporting system). One place to count accidents immediately and quickly lists locations – soon later put out warnings like causes/trail issues.

U.P. Breaking News was the only media in the Upper Midwest reporting the horror on the trails between Christmas and New Years. However nobody notified us that it was because of the trails being mushy- and almost mini-lakes in some areas.

You can believe U.P. Breaking News because if we thought the trails were bad now – we’d tell ya.

U.P. Breaking News Reveals the Shocker Stories of 2016: As the “news readers” tell you in upcoming days about what happened in 2016 – U.P. Breaking News tells you the real “news” that happened in 2016 and what is could mean in 2017 – Plus some stories we will be breaking in upcoming days and weeks

U.P. Breaking News would like police input on these serious issues that were faced in 2016 and must be faced in 2017

We would like to hear (on or off the record) from even more of the fair-minded modern cops who understand the potential and obvious ramifications of these serious issues that if not addressed properly – could lead to officer’s deaths in 2017

And the headline we’d like to see before 2016 ends or in 2017 with our shameful governor Snidley Whiplash in a perp walk:

Michigan Governor Rick Snyder Indicted on Federal Racketeering Charges – RICO indictment returned by grand jury against worst governor in state history

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

(Upper Peninsula of Michigan) – As the obligatory “year-ender” stories will soon be in the U.P. media – as the U.P. “news readers” (TV, radio and newspaper) recall what they can about 2016.

U.P. Breaking News doesn’t expect the “news readers” to tell you what really happened (out of their press release world) – so we will.

Soon you will seen the U.P. media reminiscing about 2016 – in the same way they have since TV first came to northern Michigan. The papers sell their special year-end sections and rehash their original hash – but nothing really new.

In fact- even the TV reports look the same each year – just different names and places but often same annual events and perspective.

As the year 2016 ends, is the U.P. ready to face its issues?

Or will we collectively wait til the issues become too big and more people die?

Shall we punt into a Yooper end-zone – or take the first steps: Admit the problem and try to offer solutions.

First an fyi:

• #1  – U.P. Breaking News is starting a series of stories on unsolved murders in the Upper Peninsula – plus suspicious deaths that seem to fall through the cracks even worse than the unsolved murders. If you know someone whose murder has not been solved – or there are highly-questionable circumstances – please give us a call. 906-273-2433

• #2 –  If you have time – please join me this Tuesday at 8:45 a.m. in Marquette County Circuit Court.   U.P. Breaking News is under a judge’s demand that we appear in a Marquette courtroom. Against our will, we are being forced to go to that hearing Tuesday where a judge is trying to “restrain” U.P. Breaking News.

• #3  – U.P. Breaking News is starting a series of stories revealing the truth behind Marquette County’s so-called torture case. The public has been misled by the press and officials to think it is comparable to the horrendous Cleveland torture and sexual assault case. Not even close – there are absolutely no similarities. Even Michigan’s high courts agree the case has big issues.  It’s one of those rare cases where the suspect may actually be innocent (according to some two dozen women). One so-called victim has died of a drug overdose. U.P. Breaking News feels very sorry for the only surviving “victim” Angel – who has actually been victimized and used by everyone involved. We have even heard there might be drug-addicted newborn baby thrown into the mix involving this case. U.P. Breaking News is going to name names – and show all faces.

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Now – as U.P. news organizations prepare to tell you about what happened in 2016 – they will recall all the good news (nothing wrong with that) and the criminal cases in state courts. The U.P. news readers serve a niche for those Yoopers who like to dream we are in the 1950s.

But today’s modern Yooper demands more of their media. That’s why U.P. Breaking News devotes so much time, energy and money – instead of retiring on the Chocolay River – as a public service and to open your eyes.

If we break the ice, maybe one day there will be a media outlet in the U.P. that asks questions involving critical thinking – not just fluff or same ole stuff.

Believe it or not – the following is a description of the Upper Peninsula – a place that we think is still “someplace special” but now with an asterisk.

The following happened in final half of 2016:

• Unsolved murders grow across northern Michigan including questionable deaths written off by media – and people who carer about victims claim little police effort is put into the deaths
• Very strange deaths being quickly ruled suicide. Questionable “suicides” that are decided virtually overnight – in some cases, not even one day of investigation is given for each ten years of a person’s life – even in the oddest of cases without suicide note
• U.P. police killing two retired men in their own homes during “well-being” checks – ruled OK bu local cops, probing local cops. And MSP says life goes on except for those shot. There was a third person shot by U.P. police that is also mental health related but that person is recovering.
• Inmates strangely dropping dead in U.P. prisons in alleged unprecedented accidents. Plus inmates medical scandal leading to deaths and injuries – or many prisoners majorly ill from contaminated or under-cooked meals.
• Few cops on the road; deadly under-staffing. Police and Corrections Officers are understaffed beyond bone that WILL lead to the death of an U.P. police officer – its only a matter of time before the rubber band breaks. Plus the few cops on road asked to be on-the-scene psychiatrists putting their lives in danger.
• Skyrocketing suicide rate – and Pathways plus other community health organizations understaffed – and accused of not doing good job with their hands tied.
  
• The Raging Children of the U.P. – Even this week U.P. Breaking News heard reports of teachers being attacked by students – from 7 years old – to their early teens. Kids attacking parents, grandparents and the other night attacking people attending a school function at a U.P. school named “Lincoln”
• U.P. Dumpster Diving, Homelessness, Crushing U.P. Poverty at all time high – this winter expect the U.P,. homeless to freeze to death especially those not welcome at the overwrought shelters like those homeless with substance issues who are sent to fend with the wolves.
• U.P. “News Media” in 2016 become “Fake News” at your doorstep – by going from simply not reporting stuff – to being duped or bought. For example, U.P. Breaking News was the only media not fooled by MDOC lies about the Kinross Riot. Newspapers and TV claimed that a riot was not happening at Kinross. U.P. Sunday papers had rotten egg omelets on their face with that one – TV was alseep.  Now the”news regurgitators” at the Hoton paper claim there are only 5 suspended black football players – rather than seven. Fake news in print delivered to your door! I would mention TV in all this but they are clueless about both.

Here is is more info on above:

First my message to the “reporters” who are just “news readers” or regurgitators – but want things to change:

To those reporters in the U.P. who are working under the bonds of their bosses – do not worry – newsrooms in other parts of the U.S. actually take their jobs seriously. U.P. newsrooms are very different from others. In some other newsrooms, you do not get discouraged when you come up with new ideas or hard news.

U.P. Breaking News is almost the only news media with the courage to tell you about serious (non-fluff) issues – the majority of other U.P. media hides like puppies.

I remember when paramedics and EMTs objected to be called simply “ambulance drivers.” That’s my comparison for the feckless members of the U.P. media – the media who are merely “news readers” or “news regurgitators” aka ambulance drivers. The difference is whether you read a press release with only the facts provided – or whether you look into the facts and ask questions.

Do you spend a few moments doing critical thinking before you go to a press conference? The weak “news regurgitators” are very obvious if you listen to their stories. Some of the U.P. young and older media really want to be journalists not press release puppets – but are held back by bosses with no guts.

But for example – the rest of U.P. media still has not gotten the Finlandia racism scandal correct.
It is “The Finlandia Seven” – not “The Finlandia Five” (Folks, send your old calculators to the editors at the Houghton paper to help them with math). But, at least the Hoton newspaper did a story with the main stuff coming from us, I do not even want to characterize how the other media handled it.

My message to police who really care (bored or puzzled reporters can stop reading now):

Kinross inmates still go to the hospital on a weekly basis but a federal court lawsuit filed this week may help explain some of the medical issues at Kinross and other U.P. prisons.

U.P. Breaking News is not specifically blaming the cops. The fair-minded cops we talk to regularly – understand we are fighting for their right to have more cops in the wake of an out-of-control system in the U.P. The cops in Yooperland are expected to spend most of their time handling suicidal/mental health situations – all three people that police shot in the U.P. in the final months of 2016 had mental health and/or depression issues.

Plus cops are pressured to close cases – and we are beginning to wonder about why some strange rulings have been made – like a woman whose death was ruled a suicide in less than three days even though she was found with a bungee cord around her neck laying on a famous Upper Peninsula beach – and no suicide note.

U.P. Breaking News stated in a editorial – that the integrity of MSP detectives is now on the line – and even the public is losing faith. I am not so cynical to believe these cops are bad – but it appears problems include low-staffing, pressure to move on, etc. There must be other reasons contribute to the U.P. being the place where people can apparently get away with murder – unless the case is gift wrapped for police.

Plus some days no cops are put on the road by U.P. county sheriff’s departments – and worse. We’d reveal more but it would be a treasure map for crooks (not that they do not already know this). Plus I’d hate to think our huge unsolved murder stats will encourage potential murderers into thinking getting away with the heinous crime is likely in the U.P.

If you are a fair-minded cop who understands and really cares about the future of the U.P. – and why we seem to be upending on many fronts. Rather than being reactionary – police officers please read this – even offer an opinion because we really want to know why this is happening. You do not have to give your name.

Am I the only one who thinks this is not sustainable?

We really want to know why police think this is happening. If this is not addressed – like a cancer – the public will begin the question the credibility of even U.P. law enforcement – where we love and believe in our police.

Please. If you are a professional law enforcement officer who recognizes the problems – and you do not easily get mad or your butt on your shoulders – then please tell us the possible solutions and how you think they can be achieved.
Or is all hunky dory from U.P. cops point of view?

Don’t worry we will hide your identity like our dozens and dozens of other sources – for whom we are very thankful. Some just want to blame media – we can take it. But that doesn’t solve anything.

*** Remember we NEED input from police and corrections officers who care instead of the usual sophomoric blaming of us. Remember, if you won’t help with information do not complain if we do not report it.

Eastern Upper Peninsula Cold Water Victim Rescued: Cold plunge into eastern U.P. bay for a Sunday afternoon boater

Eastern U.P. water rescue: Man OK after falling out of boat on cold December 2016 day in Chippewa County – boat spinning in circles in bay off St. Mary’s River

By Greg Peterson
U.P. Breaking News
Owner, News Director
906-273-2433

Officials responded just before 1 p.m. ET today (Sun., Dec. 4, 2016) to the area of the Conley Point DNR Boat Launch on S. Scenic Dr. in Barbeau, MI for a water rescue man overboard and stranded in middle of bay.

This is the area of Munuscong Lake/Neebish Island/ St Mary’s River.

Reports from the scene indicate the victim is in a truck “wrapped up” as he attempts to warm up in a vehicle.

Those dispatched included the Pickford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Pickford Township EMS and the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department.

Emergency officials also responded from Detour.

Once officials confirmed the victim was out of the water, the fire department was canceled.

The boat is apparently still in the bay going around in circles – as officials developed a plan to recover the boat.

——-

The Conley Point DNR Boat Launch is a relatively new – almost $1 million dollar state project

Down Scenic Drive to 18 Mile Road

45 parking slots, 2 launching ramps

Blacktop parking with solar lighting

http://www.michigan-sportsman.com/forum/threads/munuscong-lake-boat-launch.543097/

http://www.brucetownship.net/newsletters/Stacked%20Pages%2004-2015.pdf

U.P. Breaking News Exclusive: More Audio from Kinross Prison Riot – Plea for “long guns” and more including inmate transfers – does state provide enough weapons during riot? Is state risking the lives of MDOC Corrections Officers and Inmates? Another Ricky-Boy coverup by duping northern Michigan media – thanks to the Administration Cronies of Corrupt Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder

 Can State of Michigan officials be trusted after duping U.P. media and other crimes across the state?

2016 Kinross Riot Audio Update

By Greg Peterson

Owner, News Director

U.P. Breaking News

906-273-2433

Here is more U.P. Breaking News exclusive audio from the Kinross Prison Riot last weekend – when inmates set fires, made escape attempts – and as you hear in the audio transferred many inmates to other U.P. Prisons (Alger and Baraga Max Security Prisons).

It all happened a week ago today on Sat., Sept., 10, 2016 – the Snyder Administration – after slashing prison budgets – has its PR people lie about the riot happened at the prison that has a strange and violent history.

You also hear a plea for more “long guns” but there were none readily available.

The audio was from a statewide frequency often used in emergencies. You hear some of the ERT members staging in at the Negaunee State Police Post in Negaunee.

https://youtu.be/Bp4VNS2hbH4

The Michigan Department of Corrections duped the U.P. media (except us) – who posted stories that there was nothing more than a small peaceful protest.

Upper Peninsula Breaking News posted an editorial about Kinross n Saturday morning and we had no idea that a riot would break out later that day.

Our editorial turned into breaking News and starting around 6 p.m. On Saturday we were posting audio that proves a riot was occurring. U.P. Media got duped by the MDOC – but the Detroit Free Press did the best job.

The Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team raided the prison and assisted bringing things back under control. In fact, this has been a tough week for the team – and their families – as many have spent the week on the scene.

www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-72297_25680-79671–,00.html

www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-72297_25680—,00.html

www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-72297_60152—,00.html

The prison was put on lock down – and U.P. Breaking News believes that the current staffing and other issues like maggot food – is putting the lives of corrections officers and inmates.

In fact we fear it will lead to deaths.

And the blood is on the hand of the governor and others who slaughtered budgets and just expect miracles.

I know our plea is falling on deaf ears – and we continue to review literally dozens and dozens of inmate lawsuits to see if a pattern emerges.

In our editorial just hours before the riot, we pointed out that Kinross was by far one of the worst places.

U.P. Breaking News thinks its another example of how Gov. Rick Snyder and his Department Chiefs should be indicted on RICO charges because they would not know the truth if it bit them on the ……

Check out these links to see our coverage, the Detroit papers, and more

Here is a couple lines of the Detroit Free Press (they do best job) coverage with link below:

Spokeswoman says multiple fires were set and two housing units have been left unlivable

LANSING — Inmates at Kinross Correctional Facility in the Upper Peninsula turned violent Saturday and trashed their housing units, starting a small fire, smashing sinks, and breaking at least one window, Corrections Department spokesman Chris Gautz confirmed.

A spokeswoman for the Michigan Corrections Organization, the union representing corrections officers, said the incident was even more serious than that, with multiple fires set and two housing units left unlivable.

Kinross Riot

Michigan Inmates in Upper Peninsula set fire Detroit Free Press

Kinross Riot – Upper Peninsula Breaking News by Greg Peterson

Kinross Correctional Facility Remains On Lockdown After Prison TV 9 & 10

https://itsgoingdown.org/prisonstrike-resistance-to-slavery-across-the-world

www.maskmagazine.com/the-prisoner-issue/struggle/live-updates-prisoner-strike

http://reason.com/blog/2014/05/07/another-frightening-example-of-cops-dres