Bangor, Maine News Update: January 5, 2021

The Maine CDC reports 376 new cases of COVID-19 statewide and one additional death, of a York county resident. Dr. Nirav Shah says they're watching a new strain of COVID called B117, which has been found in California, Colorado, and Florida and appears to more infectious but with less severe symptoms. He says the new strain is another reason Mainers should be extra vigilant about safety protocols.

The Maine Attorney General's Office is investigating a police-involved shooting on Sunday. Lewiston Police Sergeant David Levesque fired a single shot at suspect Kyle Edwards, when he allegedly tried to run over the officer with a stolen truck. Edwards is said to be in stable condition.

Maine State Police are speaking out about gun safety after a Waterville 2-year-old was critically injured when he was accidentally shot by a sibling. Lieutenant Jason Madore says most police departments provide gun locks, free of charge, or they can be purchased from any retail gun dealer. In addition, he says, safety courses for young children can take away the curiosity factor.

Last weekend's snowstorm marked the beginning of Bangor's winter parking rules, including a ban on overnight parking on public streets or parking lots. Alternate side parking is also in effect, with vehicles required to park on odd/even sides of streets on odd/even calendar days.

The Better Business Bureau is warning residents of scams that are using the anticipation of stimulus checks as a way to glean financial information. Officials say the government won't call, email, or text asking for personal information or requiring a down payment. Anyone who doubts whether a call is real should hang up, look up the agency's number online, and then call to ask about its' validity.

The Maine Emergency Management Agency is reminding pet owners that dogs need more than their fur coats to stay warm in winter. A dog that spend a lot of time outside needs to have a wind-proof doghouse, with straw to insulate the floor. In addition, anytime a dog comes in from outside, their pads should be checked for harmful ice and salt.