Livonia Community News: January 2026
LIVONIA — 1/9/2026
The city of Livonia enters January with significant updates in local justice and education. A long-awaited sentencing has provided a sense of resolution for a local family, while Schoolcraft College strengthens its leadership for the new year.
In public safety, the Livonia Police Department is focusing on transparency and community engagement, opening enrollment for the 2026 Citizen Police Academy. However, the month began on a serious note as a Livonia resident was charged in a New Year's Day shooting that occurred just outside city limits.
The sports and academic sectors remain vibrant, with Stevenson High School maintaining a perfect basketball record and Madonna University finding success on the court. Additionally, the community pauses to remember several distinguished residents who passed away in early January, leaving behind legacies of service and sportsmanship.
News Summary Table
| Headline | Date | Location | Source (Link) | Brief Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sentencing in Fatal Hit-and-Run | Jan 6, 2026 | Livonia, MI | ClickOnDetroit | Tammy Sandoval was sentenced to 5–15 years for a 2025 crash that killed a 3-year-old boy in Livonia. |
| Livonia Resident Charged in Shooting | Jan 4, 2026 | Livonia / Garden City | CBS Detroit | A 29-year-old Livonia man faces charges for a New Year's shooting involving other local residents. |
| Schoolcraft College Board Appointment | Jan 5, 2026 | Livonia, MI | Schoolcraft News | Jackie Coleman was appointed to the Board of Trustees to oversee college operations. |
| Citizen Police Academy Enrollment | Jan 6, 2026 | Livonia, MI | Livonia.gov | Livonia Police are seeking applicants for the 2026 Citizen Police Academy through Jan 21. |
| Stevenson HS Basketball Undefeated | Jan 6-9, 2026 | Livonia, MI | MaxPreps | The Stevenson Spartans improved to 8-0 this week following a victory over Churchill. |
| Obituary: Donald "Don" Maggi (79) | Jan 7, 2026 | Livonia, MI | Fred Wood FH | Long-time resident and Detroit sports enthusiast passed away peacefully. |