South Bend News Briefs for February 5, 2026

Silver Alert Issued for Missing Teen

South Bend police have issued a Silver Alert for 18-year-old Evita Garcia, who was last seen on February 3, 2026, around 4 p.m. Garcia is described as 5’2″ tall, weighing approximately 105 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a pink Nike zip-up hoodie, ripped blue jeans, and blue and white Nike shoes. Authorities believe she is in extreme danger and may require medical assistance. Anyone with information is urged to contact the South Bend Police Department at 574-235-9202 or call 911.

Madison Lifestyle District Development Approved

The South Bend Redevelopment Commission has unanimously approved the “Madison Lifestyle District,” a $150 million project set to transform two blocks south of Memorial Hospital along Michigan Street. The development will include 240 housing units, a 100-bed hotel, and 40,000 square feet of retail space. Mayor James Mueller emphasized the project’s potential to create hundreds of jobs and stimulate significant investment in the city. The initiative is a collaboration between Beacon Health System, the city of South Bend, and Great Lakes Capital.

Heavy Snow Causes School Closures and Travel Advisories

Recent heavy snowfall in the South Bend region has led to school closures and travel advisories. The South Bend Community School Corporation is closed, while School City of Mishawaka and the Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation have implemented e-learning days. Several counties, including St. Joseph, LaPorte, Marshall, and Starke, are under travel watches, and Elkhart, Fulton, Kosciusko, LaGrange, and Pulaski counties are under travel advisories. Residents are advised to exercise caution when traveling and stay updated on local conditions.

Sources

• Silver Alert Issued for Missing Teen
• Madison Lifestyle District Development Approved
• Heavy Snow Causes School Closures and Travel Advisories