What’s Happening In Baltimore: Top Stories Of 2026

Updated May 12, 2026, 1:00 PM

Two Maryland residents are being monitored for possible hantavirus exposure after traveling on an international flight with a passenger infected with the virus, according to the Maryland Department of Health.

Officials clarified that the residents were not aboard the M/V Hondius cruise ship tied to the case, but may have been exposed during the overseas flight. Health leaders say the overall risk to the public remains “very low,” but precautionary measures are being taken while the situation is monitored.

The department also noted that Maryland has not reported a hantavirus case since 2019, and the rare Andes virus strain connected to this case has never been identified in the state.

State health officials say they are continuing to coordinate with federal agencies, healthcare experts, and local medical facilities as more information becomes available.

Stay informed with the latest updates from Baltimore in 2026. From breaking news to major developments, here are the top stories shaping the city this year.

Federal charges against ship operator in Baltimore’s Key Bridge collapse

Maryland leaders call for electric grid operator PJM to cut energy costs

Man, 38, stabbed by group of juveniles near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor

Baltimore moves closer to pausing data center construction in the city

Maryland health experts express concerns over surge in measles cases

Former contractor Kiewitt estimated $9 billion cost for Key Bridge rebuild

Baltimore bakery truck driver survives hit from United jet on New Jersey Turnpike

41-year-old man charged with killing father-in-law in Baltimore County

Travelers at BWI Airport stunned after Spirit Airlines shuts down

Sparrows Point terminal breaks ground for major Baltimore port expansion

10-year-old taken into custody after crashing stolen car in East Baltimore

Baltimore Staple Shareef’s Grill Closing After 16 Years

Armed carjacking causes more safety concerns near Towson Town Center

Professional boxing returns to Charm City, drawing in thousands

Maryland Supreme Court throws out Baltimore’s $152 million opioid lawsuit win

Michael Johnson convicted of rape, assault in attack on former girlfriend in Baltimore County

24 families without homes after fire at Baltimore County apartment complex

A.I.-generated picture of mayor by Baltimore’s inspector general raises concerns

Baltimore reaches multi-million dollar settlement with ghost gun retailer

Baltimore Ravens unveil new “The Next Flight” uniforms, delighting fans

Annapolis man charged with making, possessing explosive devices

Baltimore Police trained in new restraint techniques that don’t use chokeholds

Baltimore mayor hosts community budget forum to get public feedback

Baltimore resident calls for more safety measures along waterfront

Maryland Gov. Moore signs 140 bills into law, including Vax Act

Body of missing man Branson Oduor pulled out of Baltimore’s harbor

Baltimore DPW temporarily lowers fluoride in drinking water

Apple closing Towson Town Center location due to “declining conditions”

Maryland reaches preliminary settlement with owner, operator of ship that hit Baltimore’s Key Bridge