Fuel costs hit public transit, search continues for missing mother, teen arrested in armed robbery

Rising fuel prices are squeezing more than just the average driver. Public transit systems are feeling the pinch too. The Saginaw Transit Authority and Regional Services — known as STARS — reports it spent $43,000 on diesel in the past month. That is well above the agency's usual monthly fuel bill of $25,000 to $30,000.

STARS says it can absorb the higher costs for now, but other stressors are set to hit soon. Liability insurance and health care costs are expected to rise 13 to 15 percent in the next year. The agency is looking at a public input process this summer for potential service changes. That means riders could see routes reduced or frequencies cut if the financial pressure continues.

Public transit agencies across the country are grappling with similar challenges. Diesel prices have climbed steadily since early 2025, and many systems operate on thin margins. STARS covers Saginaw County and parts of the surrounding region, serving thousands of residents who rely on buses for work, medical appointments, and daily errands. The agency has not announced specific cuts yet, but the upcoming public input process suggests changes are likely.

Volunteers organize weekend search for missing mother

Friends and family are still working to find Candie Klemm, a Pinconning mother who disappeared in December. Volunteers are asking for help as they continue the search this weekend.

Tomorrow, volunteers will focus on the area around Pinconning Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join. Organizers recommend bringing waders if you have them, as the search involves waterways and marshy terrain.

Klemm's disappearance has drawn attention from local news outlets and community members. The search has been ongoing for months, with volunteers combing wooded areas, fields, and waterways around Pinconning. Tomorrow's effort is the latest push to find any sign of her.

Midland County Sheriff arrests 19-year-old in armed robbery

The Midland County Sheriff's Office arrested a 19-year-old in connection with an armed robbery. Deputies responded to West Isabella Road in Greendale Township on Monday night for a report of an armed robbery. According to the sheriff's office, the suspects took off before deputies arrived. The investigation led to the arrest of the 19-year-old. Details about the suspect's identity and charges have not been released.

The incident occurred in Greendale Township, a rural area west of Midland. Armed robberies are rare in the area, and the arrest may bring some relief to residents. The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff's office has not said whether additional arrests are expected.

Looking ahead

Friday's roundup highlights three local stories with broader implications. Rising fuel costs are not just a pain at the pump — they are straining public transit budgets and could lead to service cuts. The search for Candie Klemm shows the community's determination to find a missing neighbor. And the arrest in Greendale Township is a reminder that even quiet areas are not immune to violent crime.

Stay informed with SysCall News for updates on these stories and more.