Two drivers killed, passenger airlifted to hospital, in Mecca crash

KESQ on May 8, 2025

Jesus Reyes

MECCA, Calif. (KESQ) – Two people are dead and another person was airlifted to the hospital after a crash Thursday afternoon in Mecca.

The two-vehicle crash was first reported just after noon in the area of SR-111, south of Avenue 68.

The California Highway Patrol said a blue Honda Civic traveling southbound on SR-111 merged into the northbound lane to overtake a slower vehicle. The Honda then collided head on with a blue Acura TL. The crash caused the Honda to become disabled in the roadway and caused the Acura to overturn, where it came to rest on the dirt shoulder.

The drivers of both vehicles were pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the Honda was transported by helicopter to Desert Regional Medical Center with unknown injuries.

CHP is investigating the cause of the crash. Anyone with information regarding the crash is encouraged to call Officer Perez at (760) 772-5300

Stay with News Channel 3 for any new developments.

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Locals React to Vatican’s Election of First American Pope at Old Mission Santa Ines

KEYT on May 8, 2025

Jarrod Zinn

SOLVANG, Calif. – Local Catholics are still reeling from this morning’s announcement from the Vatican that the first American pope has been elected.

Most reactions seem hopeful and positive.

Certainly a lot of surprise, a lot of raised eyebrows, as no one expected an American to ever be elected pope, but here we are.

If a TV, radio, or social media outlet was on near you Thursday morning, it’s likely you heard the Vatican’s announcement that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost became the first American pope in history.

“Granny Moth, you have an American pope so you can dance up there in heaven. And I’m happy for everyone in the family that’s up there now, enjoying this moment. A great moment for all of us,” says Michael McKown, who was visiting Old Mission Santa Ines from his home in Paramount.

The new pope has chosen to be known by the name Pope Leo XIV.

“The choice of a name has always been an intrigue. It’s been a game to play. What’s he going to be called? What’s he going to choose? The da da da da. And he chose Leo,” says 

Father Aidan Peter Rossiter, St. Louis de Montfort Church’s pastor in Orcutt.

Local church leaders do admit to being a little surprised, as an American pope didn’t seem to really be on anyone’s radar.

“I hadn’t even heard his name before. And his story is pretty remarkable that he actually spent most of his life in Peru. Even though he was from Chicago and lived there for most of his early life,” says McKown.

The St. Louis de Montfort pastor says he has good feelings about this pope’s track record and forward vision.

“It is in that sense, very early days to say what this man will be like. But from his history, we know that he is primarily a holy man and a good man, an intelligent man and a man for all people, especially those who seem to be poor, marginalized and distant,” says Pastor Rossiter.

Pastor Rossiter says the new pope’s choice of name is an indication of the past popes who have inspired him, and that the previous 13 Leo’s emphasized peace and unity.

Locals hope the name Pope Leo XIV will be synonymous with the very compassion and peace-seeking understanding the name invokes.

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Special Flags and Bell Ringing at the Santa Barbara Mission welcome Pope Leo XIV

KEYT on May 8, 2025

John Palminteri

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Yellow and white flags are up on the towers at the Old Mission Santa Barbara after the announcement of Leo XIV as the new Pope.

The word spread throughout the Catholic community and the world just after 9 a.m.

The Santa Barbara Old Mission, one of the iconic locations for Catholics, non- Catholics, tourists in general, and community gatherings is marking the historic time.

“Peace be with all of you!” – were the first words of Pope Leo XIV followed by reactions worldwide.

The Conclave has elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. He is the first American elected, originally from Chicago.

Many visitors who were aware of the announcement reflected on the choice. The message of accepting everyone and following in the footsteps of Pope Francis with a forward looking approach to the world’s challenges was mentioned by many people discussing Pope Leo.

Susan Hughes from Santa Barbara said, “we all hope that we will have the legacy of Frances to build upon that, but also getting a new future for the Catholic Church. I think a new direction, perhaps. “

A mission visitor Virginia Carlos said, “his heart his humbleness. I would love to see that continue and grow its acceptance of everyone. No matter who you are, no matter who you call God, no matter where you worship. It’s just humanity for one, especially the least of us. “

An all inclusive style of leadership looks to be a binding message Catholics and non Catholics we spoke with seem to favor.

Hughes said “he  is 69 years old. We are entering a new and new future. ” With a past in Chicago and Philadelphia, “It’s exciting he’s from America. I think that’s interesting,” said Sherry Jerome.

“His background. He was at Villanova he has been he has so much in my experience that he brings to us,” said Hughes.

The Old Mission draws visitors from around the world, and that brings a broad perspective to the entrance steps  from many people  facing some difficult challenges.

Jerome said, “I think, the right person for the right time. I just, you know, just to keep the Catholic Church going along in a good way.”

(More video, photos and details from the Old Mission will be added here later today)

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Diocese of Colorado Springs reacts to selection of Pope Leo XIV

KRDO on May 8, 2025

Celeste Springer

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, has been selected to lead the future of the Catholic Church.

The decision came down Thursday, as people from across the globe gathered in St. Peter’s Square to listen to his first words as the new reigning leader.

Pope Leo XIV, from Chicago, is the first pope from the United States in Catholic history. Catholic leaders in Colorado Springs are sending their regards as the church heads into a new era.

“I welcomed the news that the Chair of St. Peter is no longer vacant and that Cardinal Robert Prevost hasbeen elected the 267th pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Leo XIV. It is a truly historic andbeautiful moment when a new Vicar of Christ is chosen to continue the unbroken line of apostolicauthority that stretches back more than 2,000 years. It is also remarkable that he is the first pope from theUnited States. I am grateful to the 133 cardinals who participated in the conclave, and I trust that the graceof the Holy Spirit was at work during this process. I ask all the faithful to join me in praying for the newpope as he assumes the tremendous responsibility of the papal office. During this month of May, we alsoentrust our new pope to the maternal care of the Blessed Virgin Mary.”

-Bishop James Golka, Diocese of Colorado Springs

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92-year-old man dies after attack by parolee at Banning nursing facility

KESQ on May 8, 2025

City News Service

Update 5/12/25

The 92-year-old man attacked by the parolee has died. Police said the man, Attilio Cecchetto of Banning, was pronounced dead just after midnight on Saturday.

Police said that, pending the completion of the autopsy, they will work with the Riverside County District Attorney’s office to determine whether a murder charge will be added to the suspect, Sam Timaloa.

Timaloa is scheduled to be arraigned on multiple assault charges today in Banning.

A GoFundMe page has been created to cover immediate expenses.

Original Report 5/8/25

BANNING, Calif. (KESQ) – A parolee allegedly attacked his 92-year-old roommate at an assisted living facility in Banning today, inflicting life-threatening injuries.

The suspect, a 76-year-old man, was arrested and booked into the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning on suspicion of attempted murder, elder abuse resulting in great bodily injury, felony assault and parole violations. He is being held without bail.

According to the Banning Police Department, patrol officers were called to Banning Healthcare at 3476 W. Wilson St., just north of Interstate 10, shortly before 2 a.m. Thursday to investigate reports of an assault on one of the nursing home’s residents, whose identity was not disclosed.

“Officers discovered that the 92-year-old male victim had sustained severe injuries from an assault,” Capt. Brandon Smith said. “He was treated by Cal Fire paramedics and then transported to a trauma hospital for further treatment. He was in stable but critical condition.”

Smith said the ensuing investigation determined that the suspect was assigned to the same room as the victim and had allegedly attacked him, but there was no word regarding why.   

The captain said a background check confirmed the suspect was on active parole and a registered sex offender. He was taken into custody without incident.

Court records show the suspect has prior convictions for forcible rape, attempted murder with a sentence-enhancing knife allegation and domestic violence. He was sentenced to 23 years in state prison in 2008 but qualified for early parole last year.  

Documents indicated that he violated his parole last summer, at which point the court ordered a psychological evaluation. During that time, other unspecified health issues surfaced, evidently resulting in the suspect being placed in the skilled nursing facility.

A county Adult Protective Services case worker had been assigned to handle his affairs, documents stated.

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Santa Barbara Unified Reverses Arts Layoffs Ahead of 2025–26 School Year

KEYT on May 8, 2025

Ryder Christ

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) has reversed course on previously announced arts staffing reductions, rescinding layoff notices for junior high band and Santa Barbara High School theater positions.

Superintendent Hilda Maldonado sent out the announcement on Friday, May 2.1

Although two visual arts teachers, one each at San Marcos and Santa Barbara High, will not be replaced due to staff transfers, district leaders emphasize that no arts or music educators are being laid off for the 2025–26 school year. San Marcos High School is also set to add a new dance teacher, funded by Proposition 28, which earmarks dedicated funding for arts education statewide.

In total, the district will see a net loss of just one arts teacher next school year. “We are celebrating the wins – no arts layoffs,” said Naomi Jane Voigt, Santa Barbara Teen Star and SBUSD student. “But we must continue to push for restored high school course offerings and a full, well-rounded education for every student.”

Superintendent Maldonado added that while the staffing picture has improved, the process is not yet finalized. “We are still finishing the process, and the final vote will take place next week at the May 13 board meeting,” Maldonado said.

In an update shared with the school community, SBUSD reported that it had avoided large-scale layoffs while still addressing a $9.4 million budget deficit. After weeks of reviewing enrollment, staffing, and unfilled positions, the district identified a need to lay off only 3–5 employees.

Arts and music positions are not among the final cuts, and there are no layoffs at the elementary school level. Maldonado said staffing restorations—including 3.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions in elementary arts, music, STEAM, and instructional support for English and math—were made possible through retirements, resignations, employee transfers, and the reallocation of unfilled positions. A slight increase in junior high and high school enrollment also helped reduce the total number of layoffs.

“While we would prefer that no employees are ever laid off, we are thankful for our collaboration with CSEA and SBTA in navigating this challenging period,” Maldonado said.

Employees affected will receive compensation packages, additional resources, and priority consideration for future openings.

Despite the positive staffing news, concerns remain over reduced class schedules at the high school level. Next year, most 10th-grade students will only be able to take seven classes, while 11th and 12th graders will be limited to six. Advocates say this creates “dismissal periods” that limit access to electives such as the arts, world languages, and career technical education.

The district originally issued 85 Reduction in Force (RIF) notices, though all but one have now been rescinded. Still, stakeholders argue that the annual uncertainty takes a toll. “This yearly cycle creates instability and stress for teachers and students,” said Voigt. “We need better planning and earlier decision-making.”

Looking ahead, parents and students are calling on the district to:

Restore an eight-period schedule or similar options to expand elective capacity.

Ensure Proposition 28 funds—nearly $2 million annually—are used to hire new arts teachers, not to replace existing ones or purchase materials.

Provide regular public updates on staffing, course offerings, and Prop 28 expenditures in accordance with the SBUSD Strategic Arts Plan 2023–28.

The plan commits the district to expanding arts access at every school, and advocates say transparency and accountability will be key to achieving that goal.

“Eighty percent of Prop 28 funding must go to hiring new arts teachers,” said Voigt. “We need to make sure this money truly expands access to the arts for all students.”

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Father Larry Gosselin Reacts to the Selection of Pope Leo XIV

KEYT on May 8, 2025

Alissa Orozco

MALIBU, Calif – Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected to succeed Pope Francis as the next leader of the Catholic Church on Thursday, and will now be known as Pope Leo XIV.

Father Larry Gosselin from the Serra Retreat in Malibu joined your News Channel to discuss this monumental day. Pope Leo has been recognized as a great leader in the Catholic faith who is expected to continue Pope Francis’ path.

“This selection of the Pope as truly a leader in our world and a person who brings great leadership and foresight to where we are going, and who we are as as a world and as a world community,” Father Larry told your News Channel.

Originally from Chicago, Pope Leo was named a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 and was selected to lead the Vatican’s bishop office. Father Larry says Pope Leo’s background of being an Augustinian will shape his priorities.

“The Augustinians follow a common path as the Franciscans and truly it’s a more human felt spirituality, you know, earth-based. Spirituality, but it’s completely in keeping with Catholic theology and it will bring a very human aspect, I believe, to his papacy and to his leadership in the church and in the world.”

Pope Leo XIV is the first ever American elected for the papacy, and was an unexpected choice. How the Catholic Church will run under an American Pope? We’ll just have to wait and see.

“We will just have to wait and see what that all means, but it certainly is an honor for our country and the American Church to have an American chosen for this position, and it truly affirms us as American Catholic people following the gospel and seeking to live the gospel of Christ.”

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Evelyn Weaver’s mother, friend react to arrest of Canadian man in Bend woman’s killing nearly two years ago

KTVZ on May 8, 2025

Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video, comments from victim’s mother, friend, neighbor)

Police release few details but find ‘no indication’ suspect, victim knew each other

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Canadian man whose extradition is being sought by the United States has been arrested and detained in Canada in connection with the July 2023 killing of Evelyn Jeanette Weaver, Bend Police announced Thursday.

News of an arrest in the long-unsolved case brought some sense of relief for the woman’s family and friends, who shared a few thoughts with KTVZ News.

After an extensive investigation, Bend Police identified 25-year-old Cole Nikolaus Sinclair as the suspect in the July 18, 2023 killing of Weaver, whose car was found in Klamath Falls two days later, Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller said.

Sinclair was provisionally arrested on December 17, 2024, under Canada’s extradition process and remains detained in Canada at this time, pending the outcome of his extradition proceedings, Miller said.

 “At this time, the Bend Police Department is not releasing further information due to legal restrictions,” Miller said in a news release.

However, she did add: “There is no indication at this time that Weaver and Sinclair knew one another.”

Weaver, 28, was found dead in her home on NW Hill Street, and authorities soon called it a homicide. But they have released few details since due to the ongoing investigation, bringing questions and frustration for family and friends who were desperate for answers.

Weaver’s mother, Dana Weaver, told us the arrest brought some sense of relief, and thanked authorities who have been doggedly pursuing the case.

“I am so very grateful for the Bend PD and DA for their continuous efforts,” she said. “I have been so impressed with the Police Department for all their hard work and amazing accomplishments. Praying for a successful extradition, so that the DA can finally bring Justice for Evy.”

A friend of Evelyn Weaver, Catherina Alyse, also shared her thoughts:

“We’re all processing this news, and as it brings up complicated feelings, we are thankful to know that he has been arrested and that the process for justice is underway.” 

“My personal hope is that he will be extradited soon and held accountable in Bend. From what I can see in his documented history, he demonstrated escalating violence towards his community and had just been released without consequences a few months before he killed Evy.” 

“His actions were reckless and without regard towards life, and he should be held fully responsible and given the full ramifications of the consequences for this unforgivable act he chose to take,” Alyse added. 

A neighbor of Weaver, Andy Coughlin, said it was “sad that this case had been unsolved for so long, and I think a lot of us are relieved that it seems to be progressing, that it seems like the Bend Police Department has a good lead on this suspect, and hopefully justice can prevail.

Evelyn Weaver graduated from the University of Oregon and worked as a scientist at Lonza in Bend.

Miller said, “Bend Police wish to thank the Oregon State Police Forensic Services Division, the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office and other agencies for their assistance in this investigation.”

“This remains an open, active investigation,” she added.

Police also released a photo of Sinclair and made a request of the public: If you recognize Sinclair or had any encounters with him, you’re asked to contact non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911 and request to speak with Detective Sgt. Tommy Russell.

While local officials were limited in the information they released, CBC News on Thursday reported other details in the case, saying Sinclair is from Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon territory in northern Canada, where he was arrested last December.

CBC said Sinclair faces nine Deschutes County charges, including first-degree murder, robbery, burglary and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

While most court documents in the case are sealed, CBC News said it was able to access some documents that revealed more information.

At the time of his arrest, Sinclair was living in a Whitehorse treatment facility after being found not criminally responsible due to an untreated psychotic disorder for charges related to attempted break-ins in April of 2023 and several bail breaches, including leaving the Yukon territory between July 1 and 26 of 2023.

Sinclair’s lawyer in Whitehorse sought sealing of orders and publication bans of allegations and evidence that could be presented during extradition proceedings, CBC News reported.

It also said a letter of support was filed from Sinclair’s Bend attorney, Todd Grover. The partially redacted letter lists the charges Sinclair faces in Deschutes County, including three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of first-degree robbery, and one count of first-degree burglary and unauthorized use of a vehicle.

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Transmission Tower in Eaton Canyon Removed by So Cal Edison

KESQ on May 8, 2025

City News Service

ALTADENA, Calif. (KESQ) – A transmission tower suspected of starting the Eaton Fire in January has been removed by Southern California Edison and the parts are being moved to a warehouse today to be tested in a lab.   

A helicopter lifted a part of a transmission tower out of Eaton Canyon on Wednesday, footage from ABC 7 shows, and a second part of the tower was moved about an hour later.

“This is all part of an effort to get as much information as we can to have a thorough and transparent investigation into the cause of the Eaton Fire,” Dave Eisenhauer of Southern California Edison told Eyewitness News.   

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Southern California Edison with the transmission tower at the center of the filings.   

Los Angeles County, the cities of Pasadena and Sierra Madre and many Altadena homeowners are among those suing Edison for being responsible for the fires starting.

The Eaton Fire started Jan. 7, destroying neighborhoods and scorching more than 14,000 acres. At least 18 people died in the fire, according to Cal Fire.

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Bear spotted near IV Elementary School and Nearby Areas

KEYT on May 8, 2025

Alissa Orozco

ISLA VISTA, Calif. – Yet another bear has been spotted Thursday morning in the Goleta/Isla Vista area. Your News Channel received reports of a small bear around walking paths of Isla Vista Elementary, and later near the Devereux Slough.

Employees of Isla Vista Elementary School were notified of a bear walking around behind the school, and were encouraged to take alternative walking paths.

“An email was sent by a neighbor that they got a message from the IV school saying that a bear had been sighted by the red barn and you probably don’t want to walk your kids to school through the path that cuts from our housing complex to the school,” said Isla Vista resident Janet Head.

It was seen a little while later about a mile away at the Devereux Slough.

This comes weeks after a series of bear sightings beginning in Goleta were reported. The county was on “bear watch” as the bear seemed to be traveling south through residential Goleta neighborhoods, Santa Barbara beaches, and UC Santa Barbara apartments and campus.

The body of a bear was found on Highway 101 southbound of Padaro Lane in Summerland in April. It was unknown if the body found was the same bear spotted throughout the county.

Your Newschannel was also sent video on April 29th of a bear near Highway 154.

A video shows the bear walking around nearby horse stables in a popular jogging area of UC Santa Barbara’s West Campus on Thursday.

In a statement released to parents, Isla Vista Elementary says animal control and police were notified, and will implement precautionary measures during today’s dismissal.

We’re also told police stood by the school to monitor the area as school got out on Thursday.

Anyone who sees the bear is urged to call law enforcement and report it to the Department of Fish and Wildlife under their online Wildlife Incident Reporting System.

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