North Central Massachusetts News of the Week

• North Central MA News 4-19-26 (4/19/2026)

  

  North Central Massachusetts News Week of April 19, 2026

  Top stories in North Central Massachusetts include a significant drug and gun bust in Fitchburg, a serious, fatal, shooting incident reported in a local apartment, and a “serious threat” investigated at Gardner High School. Additionally, a local Leominster teacher is running the Boston Marathon for charity, and DCR is offering vacation activities.

  Crime & Safety (Fitchburg/Gardner): Multiple law enforcement agencies conducted a major drug and gun bust in Fitchburg. Police also investigated a shooting in a Fitchburg apartment. Police arrested a suspect following a shooting on Willow Street that left a 36-year-old victim in critical condition. The incident caused a temporary “soft lockdown” at Fitchburg State University. A “serious threat” was investigated at Gardner High School. Local authorities investigated a “serious threat” made against Gardner High School, though no immediate danger was found.

  Community Highlights (Leominster/Area): A Leominster teacher is running the Boston Marathon to support a breast cancer nonprofit. Young artists were featured at the Head Start Art Show in Leominster.

  Seasonal Activities: The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is offering special events for the April school vacation week.

  Regional News (Worcester County): A fatal crash in Webster killed a 10-year-old girl. Worcester hosted citywide Earth Day cleanups, with over 1,400 volunteers participating.

  Politics and Governance

  State Representative Race: A major political shift is underway as Representative Jonathan Zlotnik announced he will leave office after 14 years.

  New Candidates: Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson, former City Councilor Nathan Boudreau and Ashburnham resident John Reilly Jr. have both launched campaigns for the 2nd Worcester District state representative seat.

  Budget Pressures: At the state level, the House budget anticipates a “very, very difficult” year with spending projected to be lower than Governor Healey’s initial proposals.

  Sports and Events

  Lexington Reenactments: The “America 250” celebrations officially kicked off with reenactments of the Battle of Lexington, marking the 251st anniversary of the start of the Revolutionary War.

  Leominster’s Flamingo Pride: The city celebrated its local heritage with the annual focus on the pink plastic flamingo, a lawn ornament originally created in Leominster in 1957.

  Royalston Events: The town hosted a variety of community activities, including a sound healing journey at the Phinehas S. Newton Library and preparation for upcoming town elections.

  Boston Marathon: The 130th Boston Marathon is set for Monday, April 20. Local participants include a Leominster teacher running to support breast cancer nonprofits.

  Amputee Soccer Open Cup: Lancaster is hosting a national amputee soccer tournament this weekend, bringing athletes from across the country to the region.

  Rock Voices Concert: The Weston Auditorium in Fitchburg hosted a massive community choir performance featuring over 60 voices singing rock classics.

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• North Central MA News 4-13-26 (4/12/2026)

  

  North Central Massachusetts News Week of April 13, 2026

  For the week of April 13, 2026, top stories in North Central Massachusetts include a deadly motorcycle crash in Lancaster, a dirt bike driver’s arrest for attacking a Fitchburg officer, and the ongoing, successful search for a missing monitor lizard in the region. Other key headlines include rising gasoline prices, local development concerns, and notable deaths within the community.

  Public Safety & Crime:

  Fitchburg: A dirt bike driver was arrested for attacking an officer at a gas station.

  Lancaster: A fatal motorcycle crash is under investigation.

  Acton: A suspect was tracked down by the State Police Airwing.

  Webster: A man was charged with animal cruelty after 9 French bulldogs were found in poor conditions.

  Worcester County: A missing water monitor lizard (“Goose”) was captured after a weeks-long search.

  Community & Business:

  Real Estate: Central Mass. real estate transfers on April 12th showed continued market activity.

  Gas Prices: Massachusetts gas prices rose for the eighth consecutive week, averaging $3.89 per gallon,

  Fitchburg & Leominster Highlights

  Downtown Revitalization: The Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees pledged $1 million toward an ongoing $40 million renovation and expansion project expected to finish later in 2026.

  City Cleanups: Mayor Sam Squailia kicked off the 2026 Fitchburg City Cleanups with volunteer efforts on Main Street and in Ward 3 to prepare for the spring season.

  Business Milestones: Tim’s Diner in Leominster celebrated its one-year anniversary under new ownership with a community ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Mayor Dean Mazzarella.

  Fatal Accident: Authorities reported a fatal single-vehicle accident in Leominster where a car fell from a Route 2 bridge.

  Regional News

  Environment: Worcester residents are opposing a 288-unit apartment development on a peat bog, citing flood risks

  Public Safety & Crime:

  Westminster: Local authorities are continuing to investigate a police-involved shooting.

  Fitchburg Incident: A Worcester man received a life sentence for a violent home invasion in Fitchburg.

  Cyberattack: The Patriot Regional Emergency Communications Center in Pepperell recently dealt with a cyberattack that disrupted dispatch services for several towns.

  Infrastructure & Environment:

  Fire Danger: Local fire officials in the Greater Gardner area issued warnings about high brush fire risk as spring begins.

  Senior Housing: Congresswoman Lori Trahan recently visited Westminster to tour new senior housing developments.

  Upcoming Local Events:

  Hubbardston: The Rietta Flea Market is open for its 60th season.

  Lunenburg: The public library will host a “Revolutionary Women” living history performance on Wednesday, April 15.

  Winchendon: A new restaurant, Koi Asian Cuisine and Lounge, recently held its grand opening.

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• North Central MA News 4-6-26 (4/5/2026)

  

  North Central Massachusetts News Week of April 6, 2026

  North Central Massachusetts has several community events, local government transitions, and seasonal initiatives scheduled for the week of April 6, 2026.

  Town Elections: Annual elections are scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026, in several communities including Royalston and Petersham, with polls typically open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  Phillipston Leadership Change: The town is undergoing a significant leadership transition this month as the Chief Administrative Officer departs for a new role.

  Selectboard Meetings: Public meetings are scheduled in New Salem (April 13) and North Reading (April 6).

  Community Events & Activities

  Royalston: The town is hosting a Weekly Yoga Program every Tuesday in April (starting April 7) from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and a Council on Aging Luncheon on Wednesday, April 8. A Game Night is also planned for Friday, April 10, at the Town Hall.

  Hubbardston: Weekly Toddler Story Time continues at Animal Adventures on Wednesday, April 8, at 10:00 AM.

  Westminster: Live country-influenced music featuring Freddy and the Freeloaders will take place at Wachusett Brewing Company on Friday, April 10.

  New Salem: The Creators’ Circle community gathering is held on Monday, April 6, at 1:00 PM at the Public Library.

  Fitchburg State Cheerleading Showcase: On Monday, April 6, at 8:30 PM, the Fitchburg State Cheerleaders will perform a final showcase at the Recreation Center before traveling to Daytona, FL, for the College Cheerleading Nationals.

  Library Book Sale: The Fitchburg Public Library is hosting its monthly Friends of the Library Book Sale on Monday, April 6, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

  Rietta Flea Market Opening: The popular Rietta Flea Market in Hubbardston is projected to open for its 60th season this week, weather permitting. On Sunday April 5th, the weather did not cooperate.

  Youth Fishing Derby: Leominster is preparing to host its annual trout stocking event and youth fishing derby this week.

  Public Services & Infrastructure

  Roadwork & Maintenance: Spring street sweeping is set to begin on April 6 in Worcester, and water main flushing is scheduled to start the same week in West Andover.

  Fitchburg Construction: Ongoing road construction is reported for the week of April 6, including potential impacts on major routes.

  Spring Pothole Repairs: The Fitchburg Department of Public Works is out in force patching potholes on major routes like Falulah Street following winter damage.

  Worcester Street Sweeping: The City of Worcester begins its residential street sweeping program on Monday, April 6. Residents should check for posted signs to avoid tickets or towing.

  Fire Danger Warning: Despite recent improvements in drought conditions, local fire officials in Greater Gardner have issued warnings about high fire danger as the spring brush fire season begins.

  Recent Safety & Law Enforcement

  Fire Safety Grants: The Healey-Driscoll Administration recently announced $5 million in grant funding for 307 fire departments across Massachusetts to support new safety equipment.

  Drug Enforcement: Law enforcement continues to report significant activity in the region, including a recent major fentanyl seizure in Fitchburg involving local and state detectives.

  Life Sentence in Fitchburg Home Invasion: A Worcester man was sentenced to life in prison following a conviction for a violent home invasion in Fitchburg.

  Westminster Police Shooting: Local authorities are investigating an incident where police shot and killed a suspect in Westminster.

  Cyberattack on Emergency Dispatch: The Patriot Regional Emergency Communications Center in Pepperell was hit by a cyberattack, affecting emergency dispatch services for multiple surrounding towns.

  Fitchburg Officer Assault: A dirt bike driver was arrested after attacking a police officer at a gas station in Fitchburg.

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• North Central MA 3-31-26 (3/31/2026)

  

  North Central MA News – March 31, 2026

  The week of March 31, 2026, has seen several significant local news stories in North Central Massachusetts, primarily focused on public safety incidents, community developments, and notable traffic accidents.

  Public Safety & Crime

  Missing Person Case Resolved: The body of Leonard Mercury, a man who had been missing since escaping from Heywood Hospital in Gardner in late 2025, was recovered from a nearby lake.

  Fatal Police-Involved Shooting: A fatal shooting involving police in Westminster is currently under review; the victim was identified by his mother after he was shot while allegedly moving toward officers with a large knife.

  State Police Indictment: A Massachusetts State Police sergeant was indicted in connection with a deadly crash and has had their certification suspended by the POST Commission.

  SNAP Fraud Case: An owner of a Central Mass restaurant pleaded guilty to federal SNAP fraud charges, involving the use of public benefits to stock their business.

  Fires & Traffic Accidents

  Displacement in Gardner: A two-alarm fire on Emerald Street in Gardner displaced 16 residents last Thursday; firefighters successfully rescued multiple dogs from the building.

  Fatal Crash in Leominster: The local community is mourning Travis Teixeira, an 18-year-old Oakmont Regional High School senior who died after his vehicle left Route 2 and crashed onto a street below.

  Wrong-Way Highway Collision: A Templeton man was identified as the victim of a fatal wrong-way crash on Route 2.

  Vehicle into Building: A vehicle crashed into a restaurant in Central Mass, causing moderate damage but no reported injuries.

  Community & Education

  New Infrastructure: Fitchburg Public Schools officially opened their new Welcome Center, and a new playground was announced for a Fitchburg family shelter following a $35,000 investment.

  Road Safety Initiative: Gardner city officials have launched a new plan aimed at making city streets safer for pedestrians and motorists.

  School Policy Changes: Winchendon schools are implementing a new cell phone ban, with details shared this week on how the restriction will function for students.

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News Around the Region – Massachusetts – New England – Nation

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  City of Gardner News

  These news items are provided by the City of Gardner.

  

• Events 2026

  Get your event on this 2026 Events calendar. Email News@GardnerMagazine.com or leave a voicemail at (978) 632-6324. We will provide a link to your details such as a website, image, PDF etc. (Whatever helps promote your event.) Government, Non-Profits, and businesses welcome. FREE exposure to 30,000+ unique households monthly.

  Month	2026 Events at a Glance
  January	Gardner Relay for Life First Lap. Visit Gardner Relay for Life page. Relay for Life 2025 is Friday June 12, 2026
  February	16th – Presidents Day – City Hall and various town offices are closed 16th – Random Act of Kindness Week
  March	– Gardner Museum opens for the season, Website. 31st – Dog License Registration closes in Gardner. Register dog before this date. License page
  April	1st: Higher prices go in to effect on April 1 for Flower pot sponsorships in Gardner – only $150 until then. 5th – Projected opening day for Rietta Flea Market (weather permitting) Website
  May	– first monthly Farmers Market for 2025 at Waterford Community Center. Website
  June	12th/13th – Greater Gardner Relay for Life at MWCC. 19th: Juneteenth
  Ongoing Music
  July
  August
  September	26th – Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest – Downtown Gardner
  October	31st: Halloween
  November	26th: Thanksgiving
  December	25th: Christmas Day
  Add Event	Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

• Event List 2025

  Month	2025 Events at a Glance
  January	11th – Gardner Relay for Life First Lap. Visit Gardner Relay for Life page. Relay for Life 2025 is Friday June 13, 2025
  February	17th – Presidents Day – City Hall and various town offices are closed 17th – Random Act of Kindness Week 23rd – PACC Polish Drive Thru 11am to 2pm – Meals are 15 dollars 24th – Planned snow removal in Downtown Gardner with Parking Ban 7am to 3:30pm
  March	5th – Gardner Museum opens for the season, Website. 30th – Higher prices go in to effect on April 1 for Flower pot sponsorships in Gardner – only $150 until then. 31st – Dog License Registration closes in Gardner. Register dog before this date. License page
  April	6th – Projected opening day for Rietta Flea Market (weather permitting) Website 23rd – Earth Day Expo: Growing Business, Nurturing Fixtures Gardner PACC open to public 6-7:30pm – More details — all Chamber listed events 24th – Greater Gardner Health and Wellness Fair 5-7pm at Perry Auditorium in Gardner City Hall 26th – Saturday – Purple Paws Fundraiser 9:30am-noon at Pulaski Dog Park, Gardner Flyer, CLICK HERE.
  May	17th – first monthly Farmers Market for 2025 at Waterford Community Center. Website 31st – Saturday – Gardner City-Wide Yard Sale Article Email to submit addresses is: shopportunity5@yahoo.com
  June	13th/14th – Greater Gardner Relay for Life at MWCC. Complete Schedule. 19th: Juneteenth 21st – Small Business Saturday and Happy Birthday Gardner Festival. Website. 21st – Farmers Market at Waterford Community Center. Website 21st – Fireworks at PACC . Bands at PACC and Lithuanian Beach Club.
  Ongoing Music	Summer Concert Schedules: Monument Park – PACC – Lithuanian Beach Club
  July	11th – GAAMHA 4th Annual Golf Tournament 12th – 2025 Gardner Food Truck Festival
  August	6th: National Night Out
  September	27th – Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest – Downtown Gardner
  October	16th – Earth Day Expo: Growing Business, Nurturing Fixtures Gardner PACC open to public 6-7:30pm – More details — all Chamber listed events 31st: Halloween
  November	27th: Thanksgiving
  December	25th: Christmas Day
  Add Event	Email: News@GardnerMagazine.com

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