A colorful, sparkling gift ‘for the city of Bend’: Sureshot Fireworks prepares fifth annual Pilot Butte display

KTVZ on July 3, 2025

Isabella Warren

(Update: Adding comments from pyrotechnicians, Bend Fire)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The colorful, bombastic Pilot Butte Fireworks Show is just a day away, and Sure Shot Fireworks and fire officials are preparing for the big night.

Chris Mattison with Sureshot Fireworks said Thursday, “We increased the show for you guys this year for the team, for the city of Bend. We’re ready to rock a show for you guys!”

Hundreds of fireworks, big mortars, and the longest show so far are all in store for viewers of the display.

“You’re going to see a plethora,” said Mattison. “We’re going to be shooting so many shells that the whole butte will be lit the whole time. We have shells that when they break, they’ll be just as large as the butte itself.”

The butte is hosed down for three days before the show, to ensure fires that are sparked don’t grow. Four volunteer fire crews also will be on the scene, extinguishing any problems throughout the night.

Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki has worked the holiday for years.

“You’ll be able to see all the headlamps run around the side of the butte. We have fire trucks that are mobile and fire trucks in place with hoses off of them,” he said. “They’re ready to go. They can get to those fires very quickly and get them stopped. Last year, we had no fires. One year before, we had two spot fires. So kind of goes back and forth.”

Sureshot Fireworks gained community support for this year’s show, with materials like wood, sand, and trailers. The show is sponsored by Subaru of Bend. 

The show begins at 10 p.m. Friday and lasts more than 20 minutes. The butte will be back open to the public on July 6th. 

And remember: You can watch the fireworks displays in Bend and Redmond as well on the Fourth of July Live Fireworks Spectacular, at 10 p.m. Friday on KTVZ and starting at 9:45 p.m. on KTVZ+.

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Woman accused of armed robbery after holding BB gun during alleged assault

KMIZ on July 3, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Columbia woman was charged with four felonies after she allegedly attacked a woman while holding a BB gun on Wednesday.

Latara Woods, 40, was charged on Thursday with first-degree robbery, two counts of armed criminal action and a count of carjacking. She is being held at the Boone County Jail without bond. A court date has not been set.

Woods allegedly told police that she was shot with a BB gun and had a welt on her arm, according to the probable cause statement. The victim allegedly told police that she had her child when Woods took the keys to a vehicle and grabbed the BB gun from the passenger seat, the statement says. The victim was able to take the BB gun back and shot Woods multiple times, the statement says she told police.

Video footage allegedly showed Woods walk up to the victim — while they were holding a child — and grab the BB gun and a purse from the victim, the statement says. The video allegedly showed the victim defend herself during an assault and hit Woods with a wood plank, but it did not show shots being fired, the statement indicates.   

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Fourth of July Fireworks Safety and Enforcement in Grover Beach

KEYT on July 3, 2025

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Arroyo Grande Police Department regarding fireworks in Arroyo Grande and Surrounding Areas

ARROYO GRANDE, Calif. – With Independence Day just around the corner, please remember to know the risks of fireworks. Stay safe while using legal “Safe and Sane” fireworks. If you see or suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, please report it to your local law enforcement! Law Enforcement in the Five Cities area will be deploying additional resources to identify and cite those using illegal fireworks. Calls for service throughout the county increase dramatically on July 4th and we ask that everyone safely celebrates our Independence Day!

All Fireworks in Oceano are illegal and subject to the San Luis Obispo County “social host ordinance”.

Illegal fireworks can cause great bodily harm and significantly increase the risk of fires within our communities. Even Safe and Sane fireworks can cause a fire or injury. Each year there are nearly 20,000 fires attributed to fireworks across the country.

Know the risks

The unsafe use of fireworks can cause severe burns, amputations, blinding, and even death.

Damaging fires occur when children use fireworks unsupervised by adults.

Parents are responsible for any property damage or injuries caused by all fireworks.

Keep it legal

All legal fireworks in California are called “Safe and Sane” fireworks and must bear the State Fire Marshal’s seal.

Any fireworks that are airborne and explodes are dangerous and illegal.

Time period to discharge “safe and sane” fireworks is July 4th only from 10a.m. to 10p.m. in Arroyo Grande and Grover Beach.

Keep it safe

Always have a metal bucket of water to dispose of fireworks.

Always have a hose connected to water available in case of fire.

Do not use fireworks near dry grass of flammable materials.

Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio, or under trees or bushes.

How to report illegal fireworks

Arroyo Grande Police Department: (805) 473-5100

Grover Beach Police Department: (805) 473-4511

San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Department (805) 781-4540

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

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Three men arrested after Indio police seize illegal fireworks, guns

KESQ on July 3, 2025

City News Service

COACHELLA, Calif. (KESQ) – Three men were arrested after Indio police officers seized illegal fireworks and firearms in the Coachella Valley, police said today.

A search warrant was served around 6 p.m. Wednesday in the 1500 block of Second Street, in Coachella, regarding a market allegedly selling illegal fireworks to minors.

Authorities recovered “a substantial amount of illegal fireworks, a handgun and an AK-47 rifle,” said police. The seized firearms were not legally registered.

Two men from the market were arrested.   

Another man was arrested following a served search warrant regarding illegal fireworks in the Coachella Valley.   

All three men, whose identities were not revealed, were booked into the Benoit Detention Center in Indio.

Officers advised residents that fines up to $2,000 can be issued to people using illegal fireworks as a first time offense.   

“We’re committed to helping everyone enjoy the holiday safely,” said Police Chief Brian Tully. “By conducting proactive enforcement like last night’s operation, we’re working to prevent injuries, fire and crimes, so our community can celebrate responsibly.”

Anyone with information regarding illegal fireworks was urged to contact a dedicated hotline at 442-300-3104, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 760-341-7867.

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CHP set to maximize safety enforcement during Fourth of July Weekend

KESQ on July 3, 2025

Kendall Flynn

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – California Highway Patrol is reminding residents and visitors about staying safe during July 4th, especially as over 72 million Americans are forecasted to travel throughout the weekend, according to AAA.

While CHP and residents say traveling is good for everyone, officers say it raises concerns over traveler safety. Because of the number of people potential spending the holiday throughout the Valley, CHP says it will be engaging its maximum holiday enforcement period.

Officers across the state will be on patrol from Thursday night through Sunday, looking out for the five main collision factors they see each Fourth of July – DUI’s, distracted driving, speeding, seatbelt violations and drug impairment.

While all violations are serious, CHP says DUI is its biggest concern over the weekend, especially as people join nightly celebrations. Last year, CHP made 1,300 DUI arrests statewide during its holiday enforcement period, with 13 of those arrests in the Indio area.

One thing they feel people don’t realize is DUI extends beyond drunk driving and reaches to cannabis or prescription drug use. They say no matter what substance people take and no matter how much, it has the potential to impair their ability to drive.

Their message to the public is stay safe, stay sober and don’t risk it. If any residents see reckless drivers on the road, CHP advices anyone that sees something to say something and call 911.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from a concerned resident and CHP on the importance of staying sober and safe this Fourth of July.

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SJFD responds to house fire early Thursday morning

News-Press NOW on July 3, 2025

News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The St. Joseph Fire Department responded to a house fire around 3:40 a.m. on Thursday, according to a Facebook Post from SJFD.

The fire occurred at 1519 Felix St., where fire crews encountered heavy fire conditions in the basement of the structure upon arrival.

Firefighters initiated an “aggressive interior attack” to contain and extinguish the fire.

One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was treated on scene by EMS. No civilian injuries were reported.

A condemned sign is attached to remnants of a structure fire that occurred at 1519 Felix St.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

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Actor Michael Madsen dies in Malibu at 67

KESQ on July 3, 2025

Jesus Reyes

MALIBU, Calif. (KESQ) – Actor Michael Madsen, known for his frequent collaboration with director Quentin Tarantino in films such as “Reservoir Dogs,” “Kill Bill” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” died today at his Malibu home. He was 67.

His publicist, Liz Rodriguez, said Madsen suffered what appeared to be a cardiac arrest, and he was found unresponsive Thursday morning.   

“In the last two years Michael Madsen has been doing some incredible work with independent film including upcoming feature films `Resurrection Road,’ `Concessions’ and `Cookbook for Southern Housewives,’ and was really looking forward to this next chapter in his life,” Rodriguez said in a joint statement with Madsen’s managers, Susan Ferris and Ron Smith. “Michael was also preparing to release a new book called `Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems,’ currently being edited.”

“Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, who will be missed by many.”  

A Chicago native, Madsen broke into films with a small part in the 1980s thriller “WarGames,” followed by appearances in productions including “The Natural,” “Thelma & Louise,” “Donnie Brasco” and “Die Another Day.”

But he made a splash in his work with Tarantino, beginning with the brutal crime drama “Reservoir Dogs,” playing a sadistic criminal known only as Mr. Blonde. He worked with Tarantino again in the films “Kill Bill: Vol. 2,” “The Hateful Eight” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.”   

Madsen was the brother of Oscar-nominated actress Virginia Madsen. He was married three times and had six children. His son Christian is also an actor, known for his work in “Divergent.”

According to Palm Springs Life, Madsen owned a house in Thunderbird Heights in Rancho Mirage in the late 90s.

In 2021, Madsen was apart of the documentary, “The Jewels of the Salton Sea.”

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Santa Barbara County Fire Department July 4th Safety and Fireworks Advisory

KEYT on July 3, 2025

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department regarding Fourth of July Safety and illegal fireworks.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – As Independence Day approaches, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department reminds the public that all types of fireworks are illegal in unincorporated areas and several cities including Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Buellton, and Solvang. Fireworks are only permitted in Santa Maria, Guadalupe, and Lompoc.

Fireworks can cause severe injuries, burns, and fires. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending professional displays.

Safety Tips:

Attend Professional Displays: Enjoy fireworks safely at shows run by experts.

Pet Safety: Loud noises can distress pets. Leave them at home during fireworks events.

For Legal Fireworks Areas:

Preparation: Keep water nearby to extinguish fireworks properly.

Avoid Alcohol: Do not use fireworks while impaired.

Safety with Duds: Do not handle unexploded fireworks. Soak them in water instead.

For additional safety information, contact the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

Scott SafechuckFire Captain – Public Information OfficerSanta Barbara County Fire DepartmentOffice: (805) 681-5531Cell: (805) 896-6336SSafechuck@countyofsb.org

Traducción en español:

A medida que se acerca el Día de la Independencia, el Departamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa Bárbara le avisa al público que todos los tipos de fuegos artificiales son ilegales en áreas no incorporadas y en varias ciudades. Esas ciudades incluyen Santa Bárbara, Goleta, Carpintería, Buellton y Solvang. Los fuegos artificiales solo están permitidos en Santa María, Guadalupe y Lompoc.

Los fuegos artificiales pueden causar heridas graves, quemaduras e incendios. La forma más segura de disfrutar los fuegos artificiales es asistiendo a eventos profesionales.

Consejos de seguridad:

Asistir a celebraciones profesionales: Disfrute de los fuegos artificiales de forma segura en espectáculos dirigidos por expertos.

Seguridad de las mascotas: Los ruidos fuertes pueden molestar a las mascotas. Déjalos en casa durante los eventos de fuegos artificiales.

Para zonas de fuegos artificiales legales:

Preparación: Mantenga agua cerca para extinguir los fuegos artificiales adecuadamente.

Evite el alcohol: No use fuegos artificiales mientras esté bajos los efectos.

Seguridad con materiales de fuegos artificiales: No maneje fuegos artificiales que no explotaron. En vez de eso, sumérjalos en agua.

Para obtener mas información, comuníquese con el Departamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa Bárbara.

Scott SafechuckCapitán de Bomberos – Oficial de Información PúblicaDepartamento de Bomberos del Condado de Santa BárbaraOficina 805 681-5531Celular 805 896-6336SSafechuck@countyofsb.org

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

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Independence Day Reminder – All Fireworks & Bonfires are Illegal in Montecito

KEYT on July 3, 2025

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the Montecito Fire Department regarding the a polite reminder that all fireworks and bonfires are banned in the community of Montecito

MONTECITO, CA – As the Fourth of July holiday quickly approaches, the Montecito Fire Department reminds the community that fireworks are dangerous and therefore, illegal in all unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County, including Montecito.

The manufacturing, storage, sale, handling and use of all fireworks poses an extreme safety risk to our community and is strictly prohibited in all areas of the Montecito Fire Protection District. Setting off fireworks may lead to injury, property damage or wildfire ignition. All fireworks, including “safe & sane” fireworks such as sparklers, are prohibited in Montecito.

Vegetation in Montecito is on track to reach critically dry levels by mid-summer. Current fuel moisture readings of local chaparral is 20-30 percent drier than this same time last year. This means the vegetation is highly receptive to burning and any spark that lands in brush has potential to cause a wildfire.

Bonfires are also strictly prohibited at Santa Barbara County beaches within the Montecito Fire Protection District. This includes Butterfly and Miramar Beaches.

While fireworks are synonymous with many Independence Day celebrations, we ask our community to consider the safety of their neighbors and environment this holiday and leave the firework displays to talented professionals. The City of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront Department will sponsor a professional, 20-minute fireworks display starting at 9 p.m. at West Beach. This free fireworks show is sure to be a spectacular and safe display.  

We encourage anyone with information about illegal fireworks to call the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 681-4100.  

Additionally, we invite everyone to Montecito Fire Station 91 (595 San Ysidro Road) for the Montecito Firefighters Association’s Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast between 7-11 a.m. This longstanding community tradition draws hundreds of people to the fire station for a fun, delicious and patriotic start to Independence Day. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $15. Children ages 10 and under are free.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Montecito Firefighters Charitable Foundation. Following the Pancake Breakfast, Montecito Fire Department will participate in the Montecito Association’s Village 4th Road Show starting at 11:30 a.m.

The Latest Breaking News, Weather Alerts, Sports and More Anytime On Our Mobile Apps. Keep Up With the Latest Articles by Signing Up for the News Channel 3-12 Newsletter.

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Garden Creek Fire 80% contained

KIFI on July 3, 2025

News Team

FORT HALL, Idaho (KIFI) — The Garden Creek Fire burning on the Fort Hall Reservation is now 80% contained. As of Thursday, the fire has now burned over 5,400 acres.

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes say the fire did jump the Blackfoot River, but that the spread has slowed down significantly.

“We will keep the community informed of further developments,” said Incident Commander Eric King in a Facebook update Wednesday night.

The Tribal Office of Emergency Management has extended its sincere thanks to all responding agencies for their continued efforts and coordination in battling the fire.

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