Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office reacts to violent home invasion at Ty Warner estate

KEYT on May 30, 2025

Mina Wahab

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.— The attack happened Wednesday, May 21st around 4:30 pm at Beanie Babies founder Ty Warner’s mansion on Fairway Road.  Forty two year old Russell Maxwell Phay was arrested after authorities say he jumped from a second-floor window. Officers found Linda Malek-Aslanian severely beaten. She ended up in a coma due to a brain injury, which factored into the charges against Phay. “My heart goes out to the victim and for the victim’s family and what they have to go through, because there’s really no justification or reason that somebody should have to suffer this kind of tragedy,” said Supervising Deputy District Attorney Kevin Weichbrod. Malek- Aslanian worked for Warner’s Hotels and Resorts from 2004 to 2015, according to a Brokercheck report. Phay faces charges including first degree attempted murder, residential burglary with a person present, kidnapping, assault and resisting or delaying a peace officer. If Phay is convicted, he could serve life in prison.  “It is one of the most traumatic events and it’s one of the most traumatic experiences anybody can suffer. Your home is your place of safety. It is where you go to relax, to be with family, and to have it violated in that manner. The California penal Code takes that very seriously as does the district attorney’s office,” said Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch.

Warner was home at the time of the attack, but was unharmed. Phay has a long history of criminal charges and complaints. He also has a no bail warrant out of San Luis Obispo. In a 2014 interview with a San Francisco media outlet Phay, a veteran with a history of mental health issues, expressed belief that he is “salvageable.” The DA’s office says even attempted murder is eligible for mental health diversion. “That’s a potential that the defense could file a mental health diversion petition, and that’s something that we would litigate in court. Mental health can be used as a defense for certain elements. It can be a defense for specific intent crimes, such as the intent to kill. And then it also becomes a sentencing factor. If there is a conviction, mental health issues can be mitigating factors in terms of potential punishment,” said Weichbrod.  A preliminary hearing setting is scheduled for Monday June 2nd, and the preliminary hearing will be on Tuesday, June 3rd.

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Rodent causes canal breach in Prineville prompting a road closure and days of cleanup ahead

KTVZ on May 30, 2025

Harley Coldiron

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — A rock chuck burrowing in the bank of a canal in Prineville likely caused a breach, which spilled onto the roadway resulting in a closure, and days of cleanup ahead.

The Crook County Sheriff’s Office it occurred on Thursday at NE McKay Road near NW Gerke Road. The road was closed in all directions for several hours but has since opened.

It was closed for most of the day because of all that mud, water, and debris that spilled onto the road. The cause was likely an animal like a rock chuck or sage grouse burrowing into the bank. The Ochoco Irrigation District says this is not uncommon.

While the road is open now, the irrigation district said it’s going to take a few days to repair that 20-foot section.

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Chavez Huerta Preparatory Academy makes final pleas to District 60, hoping to keep doors open

KRDO on May 30, 2025

Mackenzie Stafford

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) – On Thursday, Chavez Huerta Preparatory Academy (CHPA) students, staff, parents and community members gathered outside of the Pueblo County Courthouse to kick off a demonstration. The group marched to the Pueblo School District 60 building, chanting “Let us go, so we can grow.”

The rally comes as the clock is ticking down to keep the charter’s doors open, with the school’s contract with the district set to expire at the end of June. 

Participants urged District 60 to release Chavez Huerta Preparatory Academy from the district or to reauthorize their contract for another year, hoping to preserve a school deeply valued by its families.

“Many of us choose CHPA for so many reasons, for the diversity, early college, mariachi, folklórico,” listed parent Anna Casarez Herrera.

Casarez Herrera has three students at the different academy schools, and one more hoping to attend next year. She says she’s speaking out to try and make that a reality.

“We parents and students, we have made CHPA the school of choice. And don’t take that away from us,” Casarez Herrera said.

She says CHPA has always been home to their family; no matter where they move in the city, they have always had CHPA to go back to.

Chavez Huerta says they’ll be sending a formal request for reconsideration to the district on Thursday.

But the district says they already voted on this at the end of April, when the board decided in a 3 to 2 vote to reaffirm their decision not to renew the charter. 

PAST COVERAGE: D60 votes against releasing Chavez Huerta Preparatory Academy to get charter status

But the board also won’t release them from the district, so the school can’t operate through any other organization right now. 

Previously, district officials cited low enrollment and poor financial management as reasons for not renewing the school’s charter.

READ MORE: Chavez Huerta Prep faces uncertainty, explores options to keep doors open after charter not renewed

Chavez Huerta disputes those claims, but is offering ways to try to address some of those concerns, including implementing new budget and enrollment strategies.

On Thursday, academy families marched on, calling on the district to reconsider as options for CHPA dwindle.

If the district were to release CHPA, it could contract with an alternative education program or seek charter status with the Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI). The only other solution without the district’s permission would be to become a private school. 

“We’d struggle with that because again, we don’t want to charge our kids, our parents’ tuition,” explained Executive Director of CHPA, Fred Segura.

He says they’ll continue to investigate and see what they can do, but ultimately, if the academy’s pleas fall on deaf ears, the school will likely close.

“If we don’t get that authorization, we’re going to have to make some tough decisions as far as closure,” said Segura.

KRDO13 reached out to D60 about the rally held on Thursday and received the following statement from a district spokesperson:

“Following the State Board of Education’s decision to uphold D60’s non-renewal of the CHPA charter agreement, the school’s contract is set to expire at the end of June.

D60 is focused on supporting families through this transition, and we welcome families to explore all of their enrollment options. Several of our schools have welcome nights planned in the coming weeks that we encourage all families interested in those schools to attend. 

Enrollment information can be found on our website at www.pueblod60.0rg or by calling 719-253-6014.”

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Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City softball ready for respective CIF championship games

KESQ on May 30, 2025

Kenji Ito

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) Both the softball teams at Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City are only one step closer to their ultimate goal and are ready for their CIF title game.

In Division 7, the Rattlers will play Culver City at 1 PM on Friday.

In Division 8, the Lady Lions will play Hueneme at 1 PM on Saturday.

Rancho Mirage’s Journey to CIF title game.

Defeated Hamilton 2-0 (Round 1)

Defeated Hesperia Christian 23-10 (Round 2)

Defeated Edgewood 10-8 (Quarter final)

Defeated Westminster 10-4 (Semi-final)

Cathedral City’s Journey to CIF title game

Defeated Santa Clarita Christian 11-0 (Round 1)

Defeated Bethel Christian 15-6 (Round 2)

Defeated Orange 3-1 (Quarter final)

Defeated Lennox Academy 12-1 (Semi-final)

Kenji Ito will be at both games in Irvine and will have the coverage for you then.

KESQ on the Road! 🚙🥎🏆@KenjiitoKESQ is making the trip to Irvine to cover our two teams in the @CIFSS softball championships later this week. Kenji will head out Friday for RMHS game, stay overnight in OC, and cover CCHS game on Saturday. @KESQ @CCHSAthletics23 @RMHSAD pic.twitter.com/Ptt7h52mGz

— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) May 29, 2025

Be sure to stay with us here at News Channel 3 for continuing coverage of high school sports across the valley.

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La Pine paddleboarder dies at Pringle Falls; officials, neighbors stress dangers of fast-moving stretch of Deschutes

KTVZ on May 29, 2025

Tyson Beauchemin

(Update: Adding video, comments by neighbor)

La PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) — A 22-year-old La Pine woman who died in a paddleboarding incident at Pringle Falls was recovered from the Deschutes River Thursday evening after an extensive search and recovery effort.

Upon arrival to the scene early in the day, authorities said they found the woman “entangled underwater but partially visible.” Deputies with DCSO, Oregon State Police troopers, and La Pine Fire Department personnel say she was in a treacherous location, and they lost sight of her while trying to help.

Her husband was helped out of the water downstream from Pringle Falls by a deputy and members of the Sunriver Fire Department. The woman’s name was not released.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office said, “As we head into warmer months, the Sheriff’s Office urges everyone planning to spend time on the water to wear a properly fitted life jacket and to be aware of river conditions before exploring. The Deschutes River and other waterways in our region can be deceptively hazardous, especially during spring runoff or after heavy rains. Please take the time to check current conditions, know your limits and ensure you have the right equipment to stay safe.”

Authorities and area residents know well the dangers of the fast-moving waterway and rapids.

The area around Pringle Falls is a private neighborhood called Wild River. After our report last night, residents from the area reached out to KTVZ. First, they wanted to express their condolences and prayers for the families who lost their loved one. But their other message was that Pringle Falls is not meant for recreation – and for your safety, they urge staying out of the water.

Neighbor Debbie Stitz said, “It should not be promoted as a ‘popular recreation area.’ It is extremely treacherous, the stretch of the river, and people should avoid it at all costs. And I feel that more should be done to prevent these types of accidents by the state, either by posting more signage or even having some kind of a buoy rope going across the river, so they don’t proceed any further.”

Stits says if any extra precautions save just one life, it would be worth the cost. In the 20 years she’s lived in that area, she says she can recall at least five deaths at the falls.

Off-camera, other neighbors told KTVZ News they’ve stopped many people from getting in the river and warned them about the dangers. 

—

Earlier story:

Lt. Chris Erhardt told KTVZ news late Thursday night that search and rescue teams found the body of the missing woman.

A major multi-agency search effort was underway Thursday afternoon for a missing person in the Deschutes River at Pringle Falls.

Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies told KTVZ News at the scene that two people were recreating at the popular spot west of La Pine, possibly paddleboarding, when one person was rescued, but another was reported missing.

Drones, divers, Search and Rescue volunteers and swift-water rescue teams were part of the extensive search and rescue effort.

Sheriff’s Lt. Joshua Spano said the “911 call came in, and we just amassed forces, everyone from OSP behind me to La Pine Fire to the Forest Service.”

“A person in the water – just in this temperature water, this time of day – we’re going to send a lot of resources out there,” Spano said.

Pringle Falls is a series of rapids on the Deschutes River that drop about 25 feet over a distance of 800 feet. A Deschutes National Forest campground also is located in the area.

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Local Ron Watson Middle School school resource officer wins award

KYMA on May 29, 2025

Eduardo Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma Police Department (YPD) Officer Cassandra Reed was recognized for her work at Ron Watson Middle School.

Officer Reed has been a school resource officer for three years at the local middle school.

This year she was honored with the 2025 Law Related Education Officer of the Year award.

The award recognizes great contributions from Arizona police and probation officers in furthering education.

Reed says she is passionate about the position.

“This is literally what I love to do. I love to come to work, I love to talk to students, and help them and just kind of help them throughout their career here in middle school,” she says.

However, the school is not surprised that she won the award.

“Well, it feels amazing, as I was telling you because we already knew that we had an award-winning SRO without the title, Officer Reed is a huge asset to our campus,” said Ron Watson Assistant Principal Jennifer Stanley.

The school, along with the students, appear to admire her work.

“Yes I love Officer Reed, ’cause she’s such a good cop, and she’s not just a cop, she’s a very good person,” said one local student.

Reed describes how important it is for her to develop these bonds with the students.

“It’s those long-lasting relationships that you’re actually building, that positivity, that role model, and if they happen to one day be in law enforcement then we’re all here for it you know, but just to guide them,” Reed says.

She claims that she is honored and thankful for the award, and hopes to have inspired students along the way.

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Older Adults Now Fastest-Growing Group in California

KEYT on May 29, 2025

Ryder Christ

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — California has more older adults than at any time in the state’s history, and adults over 60 now represent the fastest-growing demographic, according to the California Department of Aging.

“With about 9 million people aged 60 or older, this is an exciting time in California,” said Susan DeMarois, director of the California Department of Aging. “Older Californians are vital members of our workforce, volunteers in our communities, and often grandparents raising grandchildren.”

DeMarois emphasized that aging is not just a number but a stage of life filled with contributions, strength and wisdom. However, she said too many families wait until a crisis to address issues like future care plans or housing preferences.

“We encourage people to start these conversations now, before a crisis hits,” DeMarois said. “Younger family members can ask, ‘What’s important to you?’ And older adults should feel empowered to share their needs and preferences.”

Experts say embracing aging positively can lead to longer and healthier lives. Dr. Anna Chodos, a professor of clinical medicine at UCSF, said studies show those who imagine aging optimistically tend to fare better physically and emotionally.

Laura Carstensen, director of the Stanford Center on Longevity, added that emotional well-being often improves with age.

“Older people are slower to anger, more grateful and more altruistic,” Carstensen said. “It’s one of the best-kept secrets about getting older.”

Experts say staying active and engaged is an essential part of healthy aging. Sue Crivello, a local older adult, credits a senior fitness class with transforming her health and mindset.

“I was almost 200 pounds, and now I’ve lost 61,” Crivello said. “I feel younger now than I did before.”

Tyrone Yip, a volunteer with Self-Help for the Elderly, said staying physically active and contributing to others gives him a sense of purpose.

“I like to volunteer and use my strength,” Yip said. “It gives meaning to my life.”

Doctors and caregivers say independence remains a top priority for many older Californians. Dr. Wynn Canio, a geriatric specialist with Kaiser Permanente, said older patients often express a strong desire to remain in their homes and involved in their own planning — even when cognitive issues arise.

Carlos L. Olivas III, a family caregiver, said cultural values shaped his decision to care for his aging father.

“We’ve always been a multigenerational family,” he said. “It just felt like the right thing to do.”

To support this growing population, the state offers a wide range of services through local Area Agencies on Aging and Caregiver Resource Centers. These programs help individuals and families navigate everything from short-term needs to long-term planning.

“Sometimes someone needs support for a few weeks, sometimes for years,” DeMarois said. “Wherever you are on the journey, there are resources to help.”

For more information on services and support for aging Californians, visit aging.ca.gov.

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Oregon Department of Forestry declares start of region’s fire season; of 16 blazes so far, half were escaped debris burns

KTVZ on May 29, 2025

Barney Lerten

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Central Oregon District is declaring the beginning of fire season on Monday, June 2 at 12:01 a.m.

Starting this Monday, the district’s fire danger level will be “Moderate,” and the Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will be I (one) in Hood River and Wasco counties.

Earlier this year, fire managers were optimistic regarding this year’s fire season, due to the higher-than-normal snowpack. However, due to the decline in spring rain, rise in temperatures, and windy conditions, the fine fuels in the district have begun to dry significantly.

So far this year, the district has experienced 16 fires, of which half were escaped debris burns. Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of human-caused fires in Oregon. At this time, ODF recommends covering your pile until the rainy fall season, when it’s safer to burn.

With fire season in effect, check the fire restrictions in your local area or the area you’re traveling to. Most Central Oregon counties have already enacted debris burn bans.

The declaration of fire season brings regulations based on fire danger level. Regulated activities are known to cause fires and following regulations will help reduce fire starts. Moderate fire danger level prohibits the following activities:

No debris burning, including piles and burn barrels, unless permitted by the local forester.

Exploding targets and tracer ammunition, or any bullet with a pyrotechnic charge in its base, are prohibited.

No smoking while traveling through or working in any operation area.

In addition to the fire prevention requirements Under IFPL I (one), the following will go into effect:

A fire watch is required for a minimum of one hour during breaks and at the end of the operational period.

Additional fire restrictions or regulations may apply depending on the various fire risks throughout the fire season.

The Oregon Department of Forestry urges residents to not become complacent in wildfire prevention. The less human-caused fires we have, the less the district’s resources are strained. For tips on wildfire prevention, visit www.keeporegongreen.org

ODF’s Central Oregon District protects state and private lands in Hood River, Wasco, Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Morrow, Grant., and Harney counties.

For more information on the Central Oregon District and fire season regulations, visit https://odfcentraloregon.com/. Check your local restrictions at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

For local ODF burn information, please call:

Prineville-Sisters Unit – (541) 447-5658

John Day Unit – (541)-575-1139

The Dalles Unit – (541) 296-4626

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Air Force Academy graduates and family soak in emotional milestone

KRDO on May 29, 2025

Bradley Davis

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – Over 900 cadets and thousands of family members packed Falcon Stadium on a cold, overcast and rainy morning to celebrate one of the biggest moments in the young lieutenants’ lives.

The clouds persisted, forcing the Academy to cancel both the Thunderbird flyover and air show – but the newly-minted Second Lieutenants didn’t seem to notice.

“Butter Bars! We’ve been singing about this for four years since basic, so we’re hype,“ said Air Force Academy graduate Minjae Kim after his friend and fellow lieutenant, Enrique Oti, pinned on his new shoulder insignia.

Air Force Academy graduate Gabrielle Olivera was joined at the celebration by her best friend and fellow graduate, Elise Eichhorn.

“I saw her at the very beginning and now it’s the end. She’s come so far and done so much, and I’m so glad I could live this one last moment with her,” Olivera said.

Both graduates and family members left the stadium with damp faces, and not entirely from the persistent drizzle.

“I bet my dad’s going to be crying. I know he’s really proud of me,” said Air Force Academy graduate Matthew Sharkey Isaac.

Even without the Thunderbirds, each and every one of the 909 graduates had the chance to celebrate their next step Thursday as commissioned Second Lieutenants in the United States Air Force.

Swipe through the videos up top to see full reaction, as well as our live interview with over 20 members of an American Samoa family who flew over 12 hours to see their graduate!

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Construction set to begin on Pocatello’s East Oak Street for Child Safety Improvements Project

KIFI on May 29, 2025

News Release

The following is a news release from the City of Pocatello.

POCATELLO, Idaho (News Release) — Construction is scheduled to begin the second week of June on the East Oak Street Child Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project, located in front of Greenacres Elementary School at the intersection of East Oak Street and Hyde Avenue.

The project is designed to enhance pedestrian safety for children in the area by upgrading key infrastructure near the school. Work will take place along East Oak Street, between Hyde Avenue and North 15th Avenue. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the construction process.

Project improvements include:

Removal and replacement of asphalt roadway and Greenacres Elementary parking lot

Sidewalk removal and installation of new sidewalks

Installation of new curb, gutter, and bulb-outs

Addition of curb ramps and driveway access

Installation of a rectangular rapid flashing beacon, pedestrian crossing signs, and pavement markings

This project is made possible through the Child Pedestrian Safety Grant Program, which provides funding to improve safety for children walking and biking, particularly around school zones. The City of Pocatello received $250,000 in state funding for the project. The Local Highway Technical Assistance Council is administering the grant with funds allocated by the Idaho State Legislature.

While some disruptions are expected, crews will work to reduce impacts and maintain safe access for students and pedestrians throughout the project. Construction is anticipated to wrap up by the end of summer 2025.

For questions or updates regarding the project, please contact the City of Pocatello Engineering Department at 208-234-6225.

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