The Morning News Brief on Friday, September 18, 2026.
From an out-of-state criminal probe into an ex-Valley police commander, to an alleged fake cop busted on a Phoenix freeway, and a new law cracking down on lane splitting, here are your top stories for September 18, 2026, on fox10phoenix.com.
1. Former police commander under criminal investigation
Former Glendale Police commander in custody amid out-of-state criminal probe
Former Glendale Police Commander Jay O’Neill is in custody and no longer employed by the city amid an out-of-state criminal investigation.
2. Man allegedly impersonated officer on Phoenix freeway
Man impersonated officer, pulled over driver on I-17: DPS
A man accused of impersonating a police officer and pulling over another driver on I-17 in north Phoenix has been arrested, and DPS believes there may be other victims.
3. Murder attempt caught on chilling 911 call: PD
'You ready to die?' Ex-con on drugs breaks into woman’s Phoenix home after shooting her in the leg, cops say
Horrifying 911 audio captured the moment ex-con Errick Cooks allegedly shot a Phoenix woman, pistol-whipped her, and smashed through her window while declaring "this is how you do burglaries."
4. New Arizona law cracks down on lane splitting
New Arizona law stiffens penalties for motorcycle lane splitting
State lawmakers in Arizona have increased penalties for motorcyclists weaving through moving traffic while keeping stopped-traffic filtering legal.
5. Arizona researchers create early autism screening test
Arizona researchers pioneer autism urine screening targeting gut bacteria
Study shows 90% of children with autism have gut infections, paving the way for earlier diagnoses and targeted treatments.
A look at your weather
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Drier air signals potential end to Arizona monsoon
Dew point temperatures drop as Arizona transitions toward a typical fall weather pattern.