Novi Patch's Top 10 Stories of 2011

As the year comes to an end, Novi Patch decided to take a look back at the stories that resonated the most with our readers.

Here are the most-read stories of 2011:

1.

In September, we shared the news that former Detroit Red Wing Brad McCrimmon, who served as an assistant coach for Detroit last season, was among those killed in a plane crash involving a Russian Hockey team. Former NHL defenseman Ruslan Salei, who spent last season in Detroit, was also killed. The tragedy struck all of us Red Wings fans, making this Novi Patch's most-read story of the year.

2.

In November, shots were fired in and a gun was pulled at in two related incidents. Nobody was injured during the fights, but the rare news of gunshots in Novi made this our second-most-read story of the year.

3.

In August, the Novi community was heartbroken by the death of Novi High graduate Chip Switzer. Friends and loved ones came together for a vigil to honor his memory and share stories.

4.

Before the football season began, Novi Patch talked with CC senior defensive lineman Matthew Godin, who has committed to play at the University of Michigan in 2012.

5.

In September, a 22-year-old Novi man died  from injuries he received after his car was hit by a truck pulling a trailer at Novi and 12 Mile Roads.

6.

Looks like a lot of you were looking for an open store on Christmas! Our list of places open on Dec. 25 was a popular read.

7.

I still can't believe it's gone! The popular Novi pub Gus O'Connor's closed its doors this summer after owing $80,000 to its landlord.

8.

In our first "Big News Near You" column in July, we shared some interesting stories from around Novi, including a coyote that was shot by Northville police.

9.

A lot of you were interested in reading this interesting crime report from August.

10.

November's election results for the city's new mayor, school board members and city council members rounds up the most popular stories of the year, coming in at 10th.