RI Has Third Fatal Crash Of The Week: Patch PM

Welcome to Thursday's edition of Patch PM. Here's a look at today's top stories from around Rhode Island.

1 Dead After Car Strikes Tree, Catches Fire In Cranston

From the week of July 26th to the week of Aug. 2nd, there was a 69 percent increase in the number of tests scheduled at state sites. It was the third fatal crash in Rhode Island this week, with Smithfield and North Kingstown also seeing deadly crashes.

Owner Of Portsmouth Construction Company Admits To Stealing Wages

Ronald Harnois, the owner of Roharn Construction, was ordered to pay his former employees and got one year of probation.

3 RI Beaches Back Open After Closing For High Bacteria Levels

Newport's Fort Adams and King Park beaches and Camp Watchaug in Charlestown are safe for swimming again.

Gov. McKee, Gorbea Clash Over Mask Mandate In Schools

"In failing to call for a mask mandate in our schools, Governor McKee is putting our kids and educators at risk." Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea said.

MA Man Sentenced For Role In RI, Cape Cod Heroin Ring

Authorities said the organization dealt large amounts of heroin throughout Hyannis, Mashpee, Centerville, Osterville and Rhode Island.