Wall Lane shooting victims identified

KYMA on May 5, 2025

Dillon Fuhrman

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) has identified the victims killed in a shooting from over the weekend.

YCSO identified the victims as 52-year-old Jose Martinez of Yuma and 48-year-old Jose Guevara of Somerton.

YCSO says there was a third victim, a man, who drove himself to Onvida Health after being shot. The third victim is said to be in stable condition.

Elisa Soto, a neighbor that lives close to the area where the shooting took place says it is scary to have something like this happen to close to home.

“Fear. It brings one fear…There’s no vigilance here. It’s a problem. You just have to lock yourself in your house you know…May God protect us,” said Soto.

The shooting took place at around 2:20 p.m. Saturday, in the area of W. Wall Lane and S. Somerton Avenue, after they received a 911 call “with a silent open line,” YCSO says.

YSCO explains that if they do receive a silent open line, they will send out someone to make sure everything is okay.

“Anybody that calls 911 will have a deputy dispatch to the area to be able to make contact with the person calling…even if they’re isn’t a person on the phone, on the line, if they’re not speaking,” said Tania Pavlak from YCSO.

Upon arrival, YCSO says deputies found two people with apparent gunshot wounds, but both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

YCSO says they don’t have a suspect in custody at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.

If anyone has any information regarding the case, call YCSO at (928) 783-4427, call 78-CRIME to remain anonymous, or visit YCSO’s website to submit an anonymous tip.

PR-2025-22-Homicide-UPDATEDownload

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A look at security measures on El Paseo following recent robbery

KESQ on May 5, 2025

Luis Avila

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – A recent robbery rattling people on El Paseo. Last Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the area of El Paseo and Larkspur Lane regarding a grand theft. Upon arrival, deputies learned multiple suspects had entered a business and fled the area with merchandise. The suspects remain at large and the investigation is ongoing.

Following this incident, neighboring business owners are staying alert but not alarmed.

“It’s very shocking to hear things like that because we actually feel very secure here and we do have a police presence.”

Kathe Reischman, Tommy Bahama design consultant

This latest incident representing a pattern of robberies along this popular shopping spot. But business owners say law enforcement has been actively working to change this.

“They do drive by every day and even come in to visit. They check up on us.”

Anne Donahue, Tommy Bahama design consultant

Business owners say officers are stationing along the street and patrolling throughout the say. Officers are also checking-in with businesses and have given owners a direct number to call and report anything.

Despite seeing positive results, some are saying officials can do more.

“I just think having the presence, maybe having more presence where they’re walking around more or maybe there’s certain days that they check in with us might help.”

Marisa Rivera, Skin Lab manager

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Santa Barbara Aggressively Paves in Several Areas prior to shifting funds for New Police Headquarters 

KEYT on May 5, 2025

John Palminteri

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. –  Miles of asphalt have been spread in many locations around Santa Barbara to start the year and some of the funds for those projects will be shifting soon as the city begins building a new police headquarters.

The funds come from a 2017 voter approved Measure C sales tax that generates an estimated $22-million annually. That has smoothed out some concerns about funding key projects. The road work was overdue in several locations with broken roads, potholes, and faded crosswalks.

The work in recent months has brought a fresh look to streets including San Andres, Haley, Victoria, State and Anacapa. In 2023 the city paved 126 blocks.

Cory Cameron lives on Anapamu St. on the Westside and was out front watching the work turn his broken up street into something that was brand new. “I think they are doing their  due diligence all around the town. It is just a matter of  when they get to certain projects. “

He said they had one vehicle out of the area and one was at home. “They sent all the notifications that they were going to be doing this. We knew it was coming.”

Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez says the voter approved tax for these specific projects is paying off. “I am really grateful that the voters back in the day passed Measure C because otherwise doing improvements like these would be almost impossible to find the funding to make it happen.”

He’s found some residents will be unhappy when the roads are in disrepair and some will be inconvenienced when they are being paved. “People are complaining about how they want to see the work and then when it’s getting done they comment on how disruptive  it is to their lives a little bit but it long run it is for the best.”

The city is in the development mode for the new police headquarters on Cota St. at Santa Barbara St.  Some of the funds from the same source, Measure C will be shifted towards that project which is expected to exceed $100-million. Work is underway with the tree removal completed, and other site work now taking place.

There will still be funding within Measure C for infrastructure projects based on a priority list.

Measure C also comes with a citizen oversight committee to annually review how much money is coming in and how it is spent.

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Traffic Enforcement Increasing on Rice Ranch Road in Orcutt

KEYT on May 5, 2025

Jarrod Zinn

ORCUTT, Calif. – An Orcutt intersection is getting increased attention from CHP in response to complaints about reckless driving and excessive speeding.

Officers are honing in on Rice Ranch Road and Graciosa Street—continuing from Orcutt Road, just east of Highway 135.

This was in response to multiple complaints.

The intersection may look quiet, especially prior to 7 in the morning, but officials say drivers shouldn’t stop obeying driving rules.

Within the last week alone, CHP has made a surprising number of stops for speed violations and running the stop signs at this intersection in Orcutt.

“About a week ago, a concerned citizen came up to me and advised that he walks Rice Ranch, every day, a little bit before 7:00 and multiple times throughout the week, he sees vehicles traveling at high speeds of over 70 plus miles per hour,” says Sean Kelly, Santa Maria CHP sergeant.

One driver was stopped two separate times on subsequent days for different offenses.

“Thursday morning we stopped one driver for driving through the stop sign, probably close to about 30 or 30 plus miles per hour. And then the following day we deployed again and we were actually doing speed enforcement that day on Rice Ranch. And one of our officers stopped that same driver a second time,” says Sgt. Kelly.

Officers say most of the violations they encountered at Rice Ranch Road and Graciosa Street were in excess of 60 miles per hour in this 45-mph zone.

“The first day that we deployed was Wednesday, and I was a little surprised sitting at the stop sign how many people actually were violating the stop sign the rules and regulations of the road and driving through it 15, 20 plus miles per hour,” says Sgt. Kelly.

While an initial speeding violation comes with a fine, repeated or severe violations can increase those fines, raise your insurance rates, and suspend or even revoke your driver’s license.

“I know in the mornings it can seem like there’s not a whole lot going on out here. But there’s a lot of pedestrian traffic. So I just want to reiterate that it is very important to stop completely at the stop signs,” says Sgt. Kelly.

Drivers are advised to follow safe driving practices no matter what time it is.

Pedestrians are advised to look both ways when crossing the street, use crosswalks, and maintain good peripheral awareness.

CHP says they’ve seen more than enough to make this intersection a top concern from now on.

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Crash blocks eastbound Interstate 70 in Callaway County

KMIZ on May 5, 2025

Matthew Sanders

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Eastbound Interstate 70 was at a standstill Monday afternoon after a crash near the Millersburg exit in Callaway County.

No one was hurt in the crash at the 136-mile marker between Columbia and Kingdom City, the Missouri State Highway Patrol wrote in a social media post. The collision blocked one lane of eastbound I-70.

The patrol says two people are involved but no one was hurt. The scene was cleared at about 2:30 p.m., the highway patrol reported.

🚨Crash Blocking EB I-70 @ 136MM🚨

Troopers are investigating a two vehicle non-injury crash blocking the right lane on eastbound I-70 at the 136 mile marker (between Columbia and Kingdom City).

Please slow down & be careful when traveling through the area in the passing lane. pic.twitter.com/O0JyALBk5N

— MSHP Troop F (@MSHPTrooperF) May 5, 2025

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National Mill Dog Rescue reports being in urgent need for food; Here’s how to help

KRDO on May 5, 2025

Celeste Springer

PEYTON, Colo. (KRDO) – The National Mill Dog Rescue says they are in urgent need of dog food donations.

The National Mill Dog Rescue focuses on rescuing dogs from the breeding industry, most commonly puppy mills.

The rescue says their food supply is running low, and they are anticipating more dogs to come into their care.

The rescue has made donations easy, setting up an Amazon wishlist.

“Every donation makes a difference. Let’s make sure these deserving dogs continue to feel safe, full, and loved as they begin their new lives,” wrote the group on Facebook.

You can purchase items from their wishlist by clicking here.

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City proposes 2026 budget with near 12% reduction in total revenue

News-Press NOW on May 5, 2025

Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — City leaders unveiled a proposed budget on Monday that includes roughly $25 million less in projected revenue for fiscal year 2026, largely the result of anticipated changes in the city’s year-to-year budgeting practices designed to increase transparency and accuracy.

The city’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget includes $190 million in projected total revenue, an 11.7% decrease from the $215 million budgeted for 2025. The reduction in revenue is projected across all funds due to the elimination of fund transfers, with the most significant of them being transfers for the Public Safety and the Police Tax funds, and the American Rescue Plan Act funds.

“Our budget will still contain transfers in some form that’s just part of normal government budget processes and there’s nothing wrong with that,” City Manager Mike Schumacher said during a budget work session Monday. “But it doesn’t begin and won’t be built upon an assumption.” 

Monday’s work session marked the first of four public budget meetings scheduled to take place at City Hall over the next eight days. A finalized budget is expected to go before City Council for first reading on May 27 followed by a final vote on June 9.

Overall, general fund revenue is expected to grow by approximately $2.1 million in fiscal year 2026, from $46 million to $48 million, roughly $500,000 more than growth recorded last year.

A budget summary for next year notes that overall expenses will continue to outpace revenue growth and create a tighter budget, partly driven by increased staffing and personnel costs pressuring nearly every fund.

Multiple city revenue funds are projected to see sizable net losses due to expenses or large capital projects:

Street Maintenance fund (-$1.3 million)

Parks Sales Tax (-$2 million deficit resulting from several large projects, including initial phase of indoor aquatic center.)

Public Safety (-$1.3 million)

Water Protection (-$5.1 million due to blower replacement project)

Transit (-$1.2 million due to transfer station project)

A consistent theme throughout the meeting — and one that Schumacher and finance officials have emphasized — is long-term budgeting beyond this year to provide greater financial flexibility and allow city leaders to account for unforeseen expenses that may arise.

“The budgeting process should not be a 12-month snapshot. We need to be looking well down the road 5-to-10 years, laying out a plan for how we meet community’s expectations,” Schumacher said. “It’s my job to make sure council has a clear picture of what the future looks like.”

The city intends to use nearly $800,000 in marijuana sales tax funds, part of $2.3 million in marijuana tax funds, as part of a new 5-year vehicle replacement process to replace the city’s fleet of aging vehicles across various departments.

More than 100 of the city’s vehicles have north of 100,000 miles.

“(Mike) came in and saw all the requests coming in for the fleet … Planning for the future. These funds will be able to at least give us a start to be able to get to to that future,” Assistant City Manager Dawn Lanning said.

The year’s budgeting process will be the first for Schumacher since he was hired last December, but far from his career-first given his extensive background in city government.

Two new proposals, one to establish a 20% minimum fund balance policy and another to consolidate the city’s bidding/procurement processes across all departments, are expected to align the city with best industry practices and help produce notable costs savings.

“So we will realize savings. I’m 100% confident of that,” Schumacher said. “The Police Chief doesn’t necessarily know what things are being purchased at the Health Department for example. All those things have to go into the same place and be rolled together. So, we look very forward to getting that done.

The proposed budget includes a 3% increase in all personnel salary along with a 7.4% increase in health insurance-related costs and increases in retirement benefits.  

Monday’s work session marked the first of four public budget meetings scheduled to take place at City Hall over the next eight days. A finalized budget is expected to go before City Council for first reading on May 27 followed by a final vote on June 9.

Correction: A previous version of this article has been corrected to clarify that a projected 2026 net loss for the Parks Sales Tax fund is the result of several large projects, including the initial phase of the indoor aquatic center.

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Skyliners Lodge won’t be closing soon after all: NatureConnect Central Oregon set to assume operation

KTVZ on May 5, 2025

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — NatureConnect Central Oregon, formerly known as Central Oregon’s Children’s Forest, announced Monday that it will assume operational and fiscal responsibility for the historic Skyliners Lodge, effective July 1.

The High Desert Education Service District, which had announced earlier it would return the permit to the U.S. Forest Service, said it will instead maintain its permit, while NatureConnect will oversee operations, including renting out the facility for educational and private events. Revenue generated from these rentals will support school field trips and outdoor learning initiatives. 

Here’s the rest of their announcement:

Skyliners Lodge, located along Tumalo Creek in the Deschutes National Forest, has been a cherished community venue since its completion in 1937. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the lodge has served as a hub for youth programs, family gatherings, and a variety of events that connect individuals to nature.  

“We see Skyliners Lodge as an essential part of getting kids outside,” said Katie Chipko, executive director of NatureConnect Central Oregon. “It’s a hugely popular field trip destination that is so close to Bend and while it feels remote and tucked away, it’s so accessible and easy to use. The lodge provides access to nature for thousands of students each year.

In November 2024, HDESD announced plans to cease operations at Skyliners Lodge due to financial constraints and anticipated maintenance costs. Recognizing the lodge’s value to the community, NatureConnect Central Oregon stepped forward to ensure its continued use for educational and recreational purposes.  

“We are so grateful to HDESD for taking responsibility for Skyliners Lodge 14 years ago. It was innovative and ambitious for an ESD to take something like this on, and they have shepherded that space without much credit or recognition. Moving forward, taking over operations for the lodge aligns so well with our mission, and we’re excited to be stepping into this role,” said Chipko. 

Dr. Sara Johnson, Superintendent of HDESD, shared her excitement about the transition: “We are thrilled to place this incredible outdoor learning resource into the capable hands of NatureConnect. Their expertise and dedication to outdoor education will ensure that Skyliners Lodge continues to serve as a vital hub for school field trips and community connections to nature.” 

NatureConnect was recently awarded a $128,368 grant from the Bend Sustainability Fund with Visit Bend to replace the aging roof with a fireproof alternative that maintains the building’s historic character. This repair will take place this August, ensuring the longevity of this treasured facility.   

NatureConnect is now accepting reservations for events occurring after July ,1 including weddings, family gatherings, meetings, and youth programs. 

“If you are looking for a special venue for an upcoming celebration or gathering, Skyliner Lodge is a great option.  There are a number of open weekends this summer, and we are booking events 18 months in advance,” said Chipko.  

For more information, visit natureconnectco.org/skyliner.  

### 

About NatureConnect Central Oregon 

NatureConnect Central Oregon is a network of over 30 partners dedicated to inspiring lifelong connections to nature for every child. Focusing on equity and inclusion, NatureConnect provides impactful outdoor experiences, ensuring all children have access to the benefits of nature.  

About High Desert Education Service District 

The High Desert Education Service District (HDESD) is a public K-12 school district serving students in Bend, La Pine, Prineville, Redmond, and Sisters. HDESD supports education and equity in Central Oregon through various programs and services.  

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Local Coachella Valley businesses celebrate Cinco de Mayo

KESQ on May 5, 2025

Tori King

COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ)– Today is Cinco De Mayo, a day that commemorates Mexico’s victory over the French army in 1862. It’s also a day that celebrates Mexican food, tradition, and culture. Several Latino-owned businesses say they see an uptick in customers today, wanting to support their store.

“Although it’s Monday, it will get crazy in a few more hours.,” said Miguel Molina, a Co-owner of Casa Luna Mexican & Seafood restaurant. “I’ve been getting a lot of phone calls, reservations. Everybody wants to make a reservation because they know it’s going to be busy tonight.”

Jose Delatorre says they look forward to the rush every year because they get to introduce people to authentic Mexican flavors, made by recipes that have been passed along through generations.

“We come from Guadalajara, and that’s our food,” said Jose, also known as ‘Pepe’. “But we also have some recipes from Puebla. We have the Chile Nogara is one of our signatures items.” Although Cinco de Mayo is an isn’t traditionally celebrated widely across Mexico, many owners say they’re happy to use the day to educate customers on Mexican culture and traditions.

“As Mexicans, we must take that upon ourselves to have the opportunity to show Americans that Mexico has a lot of great things,” said Molina. “Great culture, great food.”

Another local group agrees. Escaramuzas Charras, an all-female equestrian group also spent the morning with seniors at the Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living Center in La Quinta. The group treated seniors to special traditional Mexican dances like Foclorico. They also performed a synchronized equestrian routine, sharing their rich traditions, while also providing some relief and company to folks living at the home.And over in Coachella, Absolute Dollar, a Latino-owned dollar store, hosted a Cinco de Mayo party and giveaway for its customers.

“Today we’re giving out free tacos to the first 200 people,” said Gladys, the store’s general manager. “We’re also raffling off a Stanley cup, a small grill, and a cleaning basket.” In addition to the free tacos was drinks, music and fun for the entire family. Absolute Dollar is also having a fundraiser in partnership with the Coachella Valley Youth Soccer Academy on May 18th. The entire store will be 10% off and they will be raffling off a 55 inch TV to customers. All of the proceeds will go to a local food bank.

All of the business owners that News Channel Three spoke with say they are proud represent the Latino community, and that they get to share it by celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the Coachella Valley.

“Cinco de Mayo is for everybody,” said Molina. “All Americans. It gives them the opportunity to learn a little bit more of what Mexico is all about. It’s not just, you know, drinking and sombreros. It’s deeper than that.”

Several Cinco de Mayo celebrations are taking place across the Coachella Valley on Monday.

Here are some of the events that are happening:

The healing power of animal therapy takes center stage this Cinco de Mayo at Caleo Bay Memory Care and Assisted Living located at 47805 Caleo Bay Drive in La Quinta, where seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia will experience the joy, stimulation and emotional connection that only animals and community can bring. Residents and guests of Caleo Bay will be treated to a stunning and culturally rich performance by the Escaramuzas Charras, a traditional all-female Mexican equestrian team that is part of Mexico’s national sport. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire, the riders will perform synchronized, high-speed routines that are as emotionally moving as they are visually breathtaking. This celebration goes deeper than spectacle because it’s rooted in care and connection. The event offers a unique therapeutic experience. Animal-assisted activities, particularly involving horses, have been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and promote memory recall, offering a powerful emotional boost to both residents and their loved ones. In addition to the special performance, guests will be treated to a wonderful Cinco de Mayo fiesta spread complete with Esquites (corn in a cup), Jarritos (non-alcoholic drinks), ice cream Mexican Paletas, and a Churros Bar.

Absolute Dollar, your local family-owned discount store in the Coachella Valley, will be hosting a Block Party on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at 50249 Harrison St. Coachella, CA. There will be free tacos, refreshing drinks, fun, music, and community vibes

News Channel 3’s Tori King will be speaking with businesses about how Cinco De Mayo can bring an economic boost to Latino owned businesses.

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Tracking drought conditions in the Coachella Valley after weekend rain

KESQ on May 5, 2025

Gavin Nguyen

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – Drought conditions are an area of concern for many Californians as we begin our transition to the hot and dry summer months.

Rain over the weekend was a late-season treat for the Coachella Valley, though rainfall totals weren’t anything impressive for most of the valley.

Palm Springs saw just over a tenth of an inch. South Palm Desert was the wettest spot in the valley and clocked in just under half an inch. Our friends to the west, in Banning, saw the highest rainfall totals in our immediate area at around 1.51″ of rain.

NWS Weather & Hazards Data Viewer

According to drought monitoring data from the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), over half of California’s population – over 22 million people – is in a drought area.

This data is updated weekly, so any changes from this weekend’s rain event has not yet been reflected.

News Channel 3 is speaking with forecasters about how this rain affected drought conditions – if at all – in our region. Stay with us for the latest.

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