‘We Just Had to Get Out’: LA Wildfire Survivors Stress Emergency Planning

KEYT on June 27, 2025

Ryder Christ

PASADENA, Calif. — Survivors of the deadly Los Angeles wildfires are urging others, especially older adults and people with disabilities, to have an emergency plan in place.

Dana Carney remembers racing through burning streets in Altadena to find her friend Michael Brown during the recent Eaton Fire that ultimately claimed 17 lives.

“All you hear is popping,” Carney said in a moment captured on cellphone video. Brown was sheltering in his home, knowing that opening the door could be deadly. “If you open the door to the house to look out, you’re letting 100 mile an hour wind in with oxygen,” he said.

With embers igniting nearby, Brown made a split-second decision to flee. Carney spotted him just in time. “He got in and we just had to get out of there. It was the scariest thing ever,” she recalled from the Pasadena Senior Center.

Brown packed his essential documents before leaving: his phone, tablet, bank checks, credit cards, social security card and birth certificate.

Fellow evacuee Sarah Sneider showed off her go-bag filled with everyday essentials: “My purse has my phone, credit cards, my license, very important things… charger, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, mask, comb, and a list to make sure I have everything.”

Emergency officials emphasize the importance of being ready to evacuate—or shelter in place—at a moment’s notice.

“Have your most essential documents and your medications with you, or alternatively if you’re asked to stay put and shelter in place, have a stay kit with you,” said Susan DeMarois, director of the California Department of Aging. “That means perishable items, water, and things you might need for 24 or 48 hours.”

The department’s emergency preparedness guide, available at aging.ca.gov, is tailored for older adults, people with disabilities, and family caregivers. It includes checklists and tips on how to prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, and other disasters. The guide is offered in seven languages.

Patricia Roach of Pasadena learned she needed to rethink her own plan when she realized her supplies were stored behind an electric garage door—one she might not be able to access if the power went out. “I don’t even know where the key is. So I would have to call a company,” she admitted.

Officials recommend signing up for emergency alerts at CalAlerts.org, preparing a go-bag, and talking with friends and family about evacuation plans now—before disaster strikes.

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Former Downard Funeral Home owner pleads guilty to mishandling charges

KIFI on June 27, 2025

Sam Ross

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI)—The former owner of Downard Funeral Home, Lance Peck, has agreed to plead guilty to mishandling his business.

In 2021, Police investigated Downard Funeral Home after getting reports of a foul smell.  They found dozens of decomposing bodies and unmarked cremated remains inside the facility.

At the change of plea hearing on Thursday, Peck and his attorney went before Judge Javier Gabiola to accept a plea agreement with the prosecutor’s office.

Peck pleaded guilty to felony counts of tax evasion, perjury, grand theft, and fraud, and he agreed to pay restitution to the victim’s families in exchange for having other felony and misdemeanor charges dropped.

Peck could face 3 to 7 years in prison for each charge. 

Peck is expected to return to court for sentencing on September 11.

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What you need to know: 4th of July Pet Parade in Bend

KTVZ on June 27, 2025

KTVZ News Partners

(Update: Adding video)

Bend, Ore. – (June 26, 2025) – Bend Park and Recreation District’s July 4th Pet Parade is a community tradition since 1924 and is an annual tradition to mark the Independence Day holiday.

The parade has a new start time this year! The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. Lineup for the parade starts at 8:30 a.m. at Harmon Park.

Parade participants are encouraged to arrive in costume with a pet or stuffed animal and on pulled wagons, bikes or trikes. Parade spectators are also welcome to watch all the action on the parade route.

One of the largest parades in Central Oregon, it is anticipated that more than 8,000 people participate and watch the parade.

“The pet parade is a favorite tradition and nearly equal numbers of spectators as participants in the parade,” said Julie Brown, BPRD community engagement director. “The weather forecast looks warm, so we encourage everyone to plan ahead for their health and safety as well as pets.”

Volunteers needed

Volunteers are needed to help as monitors on the parade route and to assist with clean-up after the parade. Information and volunteer sign up available on the website.

Parade route

Parade staging is set for Harmon Park and the route will head north on Harmon Boulevard to Newport Avenue, east on Newport to Wall Street and on to the finish at Drake Park.

The morning parade will conclude before the warmest part of July 4th

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KTVZ News to host 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, with live coverage of Bend and Redmond’s fireworks shows

KTVZ on June 27, 2025

KTVZ – News Team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — For the first year ever KTVZ News will be showcasing both Bend and Redmond’s firework shows with the our live show, The 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.

Starting at 9:45PM on Friday, July 4th we will be streaming the show on KTVZ+. Then at 10PM our Fox station will join-in on the fun, until the fireworks show ends.

This means you don’t have to leave your home to watch both Bend and Redmond’s firework show. Just put on KTVZ+, kick back, and enjoy!

For details on how to download KTVZ+ click here.

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Tips on how to better ensure your car does not catch on fire

KYMA on June 27, 2025

Eduardo Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – In the previous three days, there has been a minimum of three vehicle fire in Yuma, now the Yuma Fire Department (YFD) and a local mechanic share some advice on how to help prevent this from happening.

“That’s why those lights were made you know, as soon as they pop up you have to bring it into the shop that way we can inspect it and make sure everything is okay,” said Isaac Garcia.

Garcia is the owner of Garcia Automotive and Tires Shop.

“They can definitely catch on fire especially leaking fuel pumps, leaking fuel lines, it’s very important to keep up with all that maintenance,” he continued.

Captain David Padilla from YFD shares how difficult it is to put out these car fires.

“Once a vehicle gets fire going, it can take a lot of water to get them to put out. As we look at electric vehicles as some of the newer technology, establishing a water supply being able to get out there, and put the fire out quickly is important and that can be a challenge,” said Capt. Padilla.

They also share some advice on what to do if your car does catch on fire.

“As soon as you notice that you’re vehicle not acting, if you start to see smoke, start to hear odd noises, or you see flames, pull over to the side of the road, shut the vehicle off if you can and immediately get out of the vehicle, there’s nothing in the vehicle worth saving, risking your life,” Capt. Padilla says.

No injuries were reported during these last three fires.

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Dozens show up to hear councilman’s presentation on homelessness in Columbia

KMIZ on June 27, 2025

Mitchell Kaminski

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Dozens of Columbia residents gathered at Fairview Community of Christ Church on Thursday evening to learn more about the city’s response to homelessness and housing challenges during a public presentation hosted by Ward 4 Councilman Nick Foster. 

Attendees included Public Health Planner Carter Stephenson, Housing and Neighborhood Services Director Leigh Kottwitz and Columbia Police Chief Jill Schlude. 

Recent data shows homelessness in Boone County is up from a few years ago. In 2019, there were 268 people in the county experiencing homelessness, compared to 323 in 2024. The average age of a homeless individual in the county is 45, with reported ages ranging from 17-87.

Despite the growing need, shelter bed capacity has remained relatively flat, increasing slightly from 267 beds in 2019 to 293 in 2024. However, in 2024 there were 30 more reported homeless people in Boone County than beds available. 

However according to Stephenson, the true extent of homelessness may be underreported. Stephenson says that not everyone experiencing homelessness is registered with the Homeless Management Information System. He added that many families with children may also avoid seeking help, out of fear of losing custody.

In response, the City of Columbia has expanded its efforts to address homelessness. Initiatives include:

Establishing a contract with Turning Point to operate an overnight shelter and adjusting the temperature threshold for emergency shelter access to include nights more than 75 degrees and lower than 25 degrees.

Increasing funding for Room at the Inn to allow year-round operation.

Contracting with AAAAChange, LLC for homeless street outreach and case management.

Launching a mobile shower trailer program, currently operating at the Ashley Street pavilion.

Allocating $600,000 in utility assistance funding in the fiscal year 2023 city budget.

The city’s investment in homeless services has grown significantly, rising from $68,200 in 2016 to $1,044,435 in 2024. In addition, the Columbia Police Department maintains a homeless outreach team, with two officers dedicated to addressing homeless-related concerns.

Despite these efforts, city staff and advocates say more resources are needed. Priorities include expanding shelter capacity with a 24/7 low-barrier drop-in center, establishing a family shelter, and providing public restrooms accessible around the clock.

The Columbia Police Department also now has two officers assigned specifically to its homeless outreach team.

I’m just being honest we get complaints about folks who are in areas that are private property where they shouldn’t be and so they go out and try to connect them to services, figure out do they have medical needs, housing needs mental health issues,” Schlude said during the meeting.

Ongoing prevention efforts are also a focus, with calls for increased rent and utility assistance, incentives for landlords to rent to low-income tenants, and greater access to affordable housing and mental health services.

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Colorado Springs arsonist sentenced to 18 years in prison

KRDO on June 27, 2025

Mackenzie Stafford

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – On Thursday, June 26, 2025, a judge handed down a sentence for Trey Dove, four years after he committed arson that led to the death of one man.

In November 2021, Dove set fire to the Greccio Enfield Apartments, leading to 66-year-old Ronald Turner jumping from the third story to escape the flames, dying in the process.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Suspect charged with murder, arson after apartment fire in Colorado Springs

The fire left one room burnt to a crisp, and the Turner family’s lives changed forever.

The three sons Turner left behind all spoke out at Dove’s sentencing on Thursday. One broke down crying, pleading to the judge to give Dove the longest sentence possible. He said that in all these years, they’ve seen no remorse from Dove; he’s never said sorry, nor has he tried to reach out to the family.

Another son said he was not satisfied with the plea deal Dove was receiving. He said Dove has no regard for human life.

Turner’s other son took to the stand, saying that Dove was getting off easy for his actions and that he was using mental health as an excuse.

The judge, however, said there’s no question that there was some mental health struggle at play here. The judge confirmed he was supportive of the plea deal, even suggesting that, if Dove had gone to trial, he might have been let off of the murder charges completely.

After taking the plea deal, Dove pleaded guilty to first-degree arson and violent crime causing death, but not guilty of murder by reason of insanity. Dove was sentenced to 18 years in prison and 3 years of mandatory parole. 

The attorney representing Dove declined to comment when asked about the outcome of the sentencing.

OTHER: Man identified in fatal Greccio Enfield Apartments fire on Sunday

When KRDO13 spoke with some of Turner’s sons following the sentencing, one said he hopes Dove dies in prison.

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Dirty South BBQ House hosts soft opening in Yuma

KYMA on June 26, 2025

Manoah Tuiasosopo

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Where there’s smoke, there’s flavor! Dirty South BBQ House held it’s soft opening in Yuma on Thursday.

Their menu includes award winning barbeque ribs, sandwiches, classic sides, date shakes, and more.

They also have a vintage boutique inside the restaurant where locals can check out some stylish clothing.

The owner Angela Birchall is an award winning pit master.

She says she’s excited to share her love of southern barbecue with the Yuma community.

“We might be in the middle of the city, but being from the South, I absolutely brought a little bit of the farm life here into the middle of Oldtown District. We really couldn’t do it without the love and support of the community and Yuma is just so wonderful. I’m happy and just blessed to be able to share my passion with this county,” Birchall explains.

The grand opening will be held next Saturday, July 5.

The restaurant is located on 3rd Avenue and 11th Street in the former La Fonda restaurant building.

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Two Arrested in Homicide Investigation near Indio-Coachella border

KESQ on June 26, 2025

Jesus Reyes

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) — A 24-year-old woman was found dead in her Indio-area home early Thursday, and authorities say a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department responded to a possible homicide around 7:02 a.m. in the 84000 block of Manila Avenue, in an unincorporated area near Indio. Inside the residence, they discovered Alexis Cano suffering from traumatic injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators determined the incident stemmed from a domestic disturbance. The suspect, identified as a 25-year-old from Coachella, was arrested Friday without incident. He was booked into the John Benoit Detention Center on suspicion of murder.

A second suspect, a 55-year-old woman, also of Coachella, was arrested yesterday and booked for accessory to murder.

The investigation is ongoing.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Master Investigator D. Hernandez or Investigator G. Gonzalez at 951-955-2777.

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Idaho Falls Fire warns against improper firework disposal

KIFI on June 26, 2025

Ariel Jensen

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — If you’re planning to light up the sky for the Fourth of July, remember safety continues even after all fireworks are lit. 

The Idaho Falls Fire Department reports that they see people improperly dispose of fireworks every year by throwing them into garbage cans and dumpsters while the fireworks are still active and burning.

This has led to house fires in years past, as the garbage cans are often pushed up next to the homes.

Fire Marshal Jim Newton said there’s an easy way to prevent this from happening.

“Our recommendation is to take a bucket and dip it in the bucket. Leave it in the bucket overnight, just because you dip it in the bucket doesn’t mean the whole firework will get wet all the way through to the insides,” said Newton.  “So what I recommend is dipping in the bucket, leaving it there overnight, and then disposing of it in your garbage can the next day.”

Newton says that with these dumpster fires, Injuries and property loss are the usual outcome.

They haven’t had any loss of life attributed directly to this kind of fire, but it’s still a constant issue.

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