2013's Top Local News Stories
We here at CBSPhilly.com have compiled a list of the Top 10 Local News Stories of 2013. Here they are, in no particular order. -- Steve Beck
On June 5th, a brick wall of a four-story building that was being demolished crashed down onto a Salvation Army store in Center City, trapping shoppers and workers in rubble. Six people were killed and 14 were injured.
The "Knockout" game, which is a cowardly act and involves the attempt to knockout an unsuspecting victim, was first reported in several states around the country. However, "knockout" attacks were eventually reported in Lower Merion and Northeast Philadelphia.
Dr. Kermit Gosnell Found Guilty
On May 13th, Dr. Kermit Gosnell was found guilty of three counts of first-degree murder for cutting the necks of babies born alive and viable. He was also convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the death of a woman who died during an abortion at his clinic. Gosnell was given life in prison.
Fire Captain Killed In Queen Village Blaze
Fire Captain Michael Goodwin, 53, was killed when a roof collapsed while he was battling a fire in the city's Queen Village section on April 6th.
Sarah Murnaghan, of Newtown Square, made national headlines when her parents sued to get her on the adult lung transplant list. After much debate, Sarah eventually underwent surgery and spent six months in the hospital before being released.
Massive Boardwalk Fire In New Jersey
On September 12th, a massive six-alarm fire erupted in Seaside Park, New Jersey. The enormous blaze destroyed dozens of businesses. In the end, the fire was ruled accidental with investigators saying it was started by electrical wiring and equipment that was compromised by Superstorm Sandy.
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Riley Cooper was caught on tape using a racial slur at a concert at Lincoln Financial Field in June. The controversy exploded once video of the incident went viral online in late July. Riley issued several apologies and left the team for a short period of time.
Fire At Dietz & Watson Warehouse
On September 1st, a fire erupted at a Dietz & Watson warehouse in Delanco, New Jersey. The fire continued to flare up for several days before firefighters were able to fully contain the blaze. As a result of the fire, the company was forced to hire a firm to remove the smell of burnt and rotted meat.
The topic of same-sex marriage and the issuances of marriage licenses in Montgomery County became a hot-button issue and is still ongoing.
After his handling of Superstorm Sandy, the popularity of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie soared to new heights. Many experts are predicting that Christie will turn that popularity into a run for President in 2016. Christie was re-elected Governor of New Jersey in November.
