8:30 AM Dec 24 LRN Newscast

Leaving animals in cars is cruel and one man is accused of taking it even further. KPLC is reporting that Oakdale Police found an 8-week-old puppy locked in the trunk of a car when they made a traffic stop earlier this month. According to the Humane Society of Louisiana, officers told them that they heard barking sounds which led them to discover the puppy that appeared malnourished. The driver, Dallas Antoine, was cited for animal cruelty. The puppy who has been named Rosie Joe is recovering and will be rehomed.

Flu activity is rampant across the country, especially here in Louisiana. Dr. David Janese (juh-NEESE) with Ochsner (Ox-ner) LSU Health says this is the time of year when flu activity tends to increase.

Cut 12 (08) “…home for Christmas.”

To prevent the flu, avoid sick people, practice good hygiene, and be especially diligent with handwashing.  If you become ill, please stay home and avoid others except to seek medical care.

With the jackpot skyrocketing, Powerball fever is gripping Louisiana. Andre Champagne reports.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

Holiday travelers will find the lowest gas prices since 2020 says Don Redman with Triple-A Louisiana and he says there are a couple of reasons…

Cut 7 (11) “…dollars a barrel.”

And he says the holiday season is typically the time of year when gas prices are at their lowest.