Body cam footage of July deputy-involved shooting in unincorporated Beaumont released

KESQ on September 12, 2025

Jesus Reyes

BEAUMONT, Calif. (KESQ) – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office released body-worn camera footage of a deputy-involved shooting in Beaumont this past July.

The shooting happened on the evening of July 29 on the side of the road near Redlands Boulevard and San Timoteo Canyon Road.

According to the agency, a deputy contacted a motorcyclist.

“When the deputy asked if the male had any weapons, the male became uncooperative and ran toward a nearby residence,” Sheriff Chad Bianco said in a video recapping the incident.

Bianco said during a foot pursuit, the suspect produced a firearm, and a deputy-involved shooting occurred.

The suspect, identified as Justin Perry James, 53, of Beaumont, was hospitalized in critical condition. Bianco said he remains hospitalized.

Investigations into the shooting remain active and ongoing. The incident will be reviewed by the Riverside County District Attorney’s office and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.

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Patriots Day event features Vietnam War hero  

News-Press NOW on September 12, 2025

Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) —  St. Joseph celebrated Patriots’ Day with a special tribute at Wyatt Park Baptist Church. 

Capt. Guy Gruters was the event’s keynote speaker- A former Air Force pilot who was shot down during the Vietnam War and spent more than five years as a prisoner of war. 

“We took the opportunity to have Guy Gruters come here to St. Joe to give a talk and do a book signing all at once. We were working the event and it felt like a good time on Patriots’ Day to have him here,” said Terry Beasley, an adjutant.

The committee chose Patriots’ Day for the event as a special way to honor Gruters and so he could share his incredible journey with the community.  

Gruters said life in the communist prison camp was brutal, but prayer was what kept him going through those dark times.  

“You’re not able to do anything in the coffin, and there’s no television or radio or magazines or books of anything. All there is just a bucket for your bathroom and no get no chance to write to your family,” Gruters said.  

Gruters also noted the event is special to him because it’s not just about sharing his own story — it’s a chance to meet other veterans, hear about their experiences and connect with what they went through.  

This is the first time the committee has ever hosted an event like this, and they wanted Gruters’ presentation to leave a lasting impact on the community.  

“This is a chance to talk to a number of people about the experience, and a lot of these are Vietnam Veterans, so it’s good that we get to talk about the code of conduct and things that governed our behavior in the prison camp,” Gruters said.  

Gruters said he’s given his presentation hundreds of times, but this is the first time he’s doing one of this multitude in St. Joseph.  

Organizers said their main goal was simple — get as many people from the community to come out to hear Gruters’ story and celebrate his journey.  

“We had Guy Gruters here like three years ago, and it wasn’t a special day, so he’s been here before to do his talk, and this was another opportunity to get his back and it was also on Patriots’ Day,” Beasley said.  

The committee plans to keep this event going each year and shine a spotlight on the veterans who have served, and those who continue to serve, our community through every challenge. 

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MU changes homecoming parade application policy amid lawsuit from Muslim rights group

KMIZ on September 12, 2025

Mitchell Kaminski

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) 

The University of Missouri has made changes to its application process for its homecoming parade, following a dustup with Mizzou Students for Justice in Palestine last year. 

On Aug. 27, the group posted on social media that CAIR — the largest Muslim civil rights organization in the country — had filed a lawsuit on behalf of the group for President Mun Choi’s decision to deny their application to participate in the 2024 homecoming parade. 

Records obtained by ABC 17 News show Choi cited what he called “disturbances”  from students at other universities as the reason for denying MSJP’s application.  In his letter to the group, he wrote: 

“A review of SJP events around the country indicated that significant disturbances have occurred. Some of the disturbances were caused by members and/or supporters of SJP. In other cases the disturbances were caused by members of the public or by counter-demonstrators. Ensuring the safety of members of the MSJP and homecoming participants is my paramount concern

“These facts, combined with the concerning actions of some MSJP members at Speakers Circle on Oct 7, led me to my decision. Given our commitment to your right of freedom of expression, we’ll provide you another location on the day of Homecoming Parade to share your perspectives.” 

Letters obtained by ABC 17 News also show the University denied applications to LiUNA and the League of Women Voters, as part of the five denial letters obtained in the records request. However, those denial letters cited the influx of registration, concerns about parade length and priority given to MU student groups as the reason why.  

Choi_MSJP_Email_Redacted (1)Download

MSPJ argues that before denying their application, the university asked the student group to not carry a banner reading “END THE GENOCIDE,” despite allowing fraternities to display “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN” banners. 

“MSJP’s exclusion from the 2024 Homecoming Parade was a blatant violation of the First Amendment,” Gadeir Abbas, deputy litigation director at CAIR National, said in a statement. “In addition to seeking relief from the court for that constitutional violation, we are also demanding that the University not repeat its mistake by excluding Mizzou Students for Justice in Palestine again in this year’s parade.” 

The University has since updated its homecoming parade policy, with the theme of “Celebrating Black and Gold.” According to the policy, the purposes of the parade are to: 

Celebrate MU’s traditions and accomplishments

Cultivate alumni connections

Honor University-selected achievements of MU students, personnel, and alumni

Rally support and enthusiasm for the Homecoming football game

The policy also reads: 

“It is not an open forum for expression on topics identified by participants, but rather is limited to expression on topics identified by the University for the purposes noted above. The University provides ample other opportunities for participants to express themselves on topics of interest to them.” 

Choi was asked about the decision during Thursday’s MU faculty council meeting. 

“The major difference from last year is that we have a theme, and we ask that all of the parade participants to tailor the displays, tailor their performance if they’re going to perform in the parade, using the theme of Black and Gold and themes of celebrating our alums because it is homecoming,” Choi said. 

A spokesman for the university told ABC 17 News in a statement that the decision to change the rules was not related to SJP. 

“We make changes to the parade rules every year and this year is no exception,” MU spokesperson Christopher Ave wrote in an email. “Adherence to the theme is not limited to any one group, and the rules do apply to all participants.” 

ABC 17 News reached out to MSJP.

Check back for updates.

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Four charged after assault inside Palm Springs grocery store

KESQ on September 12, 2025

Jesus Reyes

Update 9/15/25

Four suspects have been charged in connection with the assault.

Isiah Manning, 24, and Camaron Dearman, 21, were arrested on Sept. 11. The next day, police also arrested Dikie Reagins, 21, and Cordell Wash, 18.

Manning and Dearman are scheduled to be arraigned on Monday.

Reagins and Wash are set to appear in court on Tuesday.

Original Report 9/11/25

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Two men were arrested in connection with an assault at a grocery store earlier this month in Palm Springs.

The assault happened on Sept. 1 at around 11 p.m. in the 400 block of S Sunrise Road.

“Officers contacted the victim, who had been brutally attacked by several suspects inside the store,” reads a post by the Palm Springs Police Department. “According to the investigation, the victim was approached by the suspects, who initiated a physical assault. The victim fell to the ground, where the suspects continued to kick and stomp on him. The victim was dragged several feet through the store during the assault. Despite attempting to protect himself, the victim was further assaulted as he lay on the ground, sustaining serious injuries. The suspects eventually fled the scene, leaving the victim motionless.”

Investigators were able to identify the suspects, a 24-year-old man and a 21-year-old man, who were arrested on Thursday. Both suspects face multiple charges, including assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping, and gang membership. They are scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 15.

The investigation is ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Palm Springs Police Department at (760) 323-8157 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (760) 347-7867.

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City of Santa Barbara Announces New Public Works Director, Launches Water Resources Department

KEYT on September 12, 2025

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the City of Santa Barbara regarding the appointment of their new Public Works Director and creation of a Water Resources Department.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The City of Santa Barbara is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian D’Amour as Public Works Director and the creation of a new Department of Water Resources, to be led by Joshua Haggmark. Both appointments will become effective September 22, 2025.

Following a highly competitive recruitment process that drew applicants from across the country, the City conducted a rigorous evaluation with input from both internal department heads and external public works professionals. Based on the feedback and final interviews, City Administrator Kelly McAdoo selected both D’Amour and Haggmark to lead the City’s evolving infrastructure and water management efforts.

“This new structure will allow us to better serve our residents and plan strategically for the future of Santa Barbara’s infrastructure and water systems. I’m thrilled to have two proven leaders stepping into these roles, each bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to our community,” said McAdoo.

The City Council will consider the employment agreements for both directors at its September 16 meeting.

Brian D’Amour Named Public Works Director

As Public Works Director, Brian D’Amour will oversee Engineering and Public Works Operations, including transportation, facilities maintenance, and capital improvement projects. A licensed Professional Engineer and graduate of Pennsylvania State University, D’Amour brings over 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. He has served the City of Santa Barbara since 2007, most recently as City Engineer, and has also held roles as Acting Public Works Director and Interim Airport Director.

During his tenure, the City has delivered numerous high-impact capital projects, modernized infrastructure systems, and strengthened interdepartmental coordination to improve service delivery and community outcomes.

“Public Works touches every part of our daily lives—from the roads we drive to the buildings we use. As a resident of this world class city, I’m proud to lead a team that’s dedicated to making Santa Barbara a safe, sustainable, and vibrant place to live,” said D’Amour.

For department information and services, visit Public Works Department (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PW).

New Department of Water Resources to Be Led by Joshua Haggmark

The newly established Department of Water Resources will consolidate all water-related services under one umbrella, including water supply, water system, wastewater system, and desalination operations. Joshua Haggmark, a licensed Civil Engineer and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate, brings 25 years of service to the City, including 12 years as Water Resources Manager and most recently as Acting Public Works Director.

Under his leadership, the City has successfully navigated an historic drought, reactivated the Charles E. Meyer Desalination Facility, and managed a diverse water supply portfolio that includes Lake Cachuma, Gibraltar Reservoir, groundwater, recycled water, State Water, and desalinated water.

“Our water resources are essential to Santa Barbara’s future, and I’m honored to be selected to lead this new department focused on protecting and sustaining this precious resource for generations to come. This new department reflects the City’s strong commitment to water resilience, and I’m honored to lead such a dedicated and professional team of public servants,” said Haggmark.

For water resources information and programming, visit Water Resources (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/water).

Traducción al Español:

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – La Ciudad de Santa Bárbara se complace en anunciar el nombramiento de Brian D’Amour como Director de Obras Públicas y la creación de un nuevo Departamento de Recursos Hídricos, que estará dirigido por Joshua Haggmark. Ambos nombramientos entrarán en vigor el 22 de septiembre de 2025.

Después de un proceso de reclutamiento altamente competitivo que atrajo solicitantes de todo el país, la Ciudad realizó una rigurosa evaluación con la participación tanto de jefes de departamento internos como de profesionales externos de obras públicas. Basándose en los comentarios y entrevistas finales, la Administradora de la Ciudad Kelly McAdoo seleccionó a D’Amour y Haggmark para liderar los esfuerzos de gestión de infraestructura y sistemas de agua en evolución de la Ciudad.

“Esta nueva estructura nos permitirá servir mejor a nuestros residentes y planificar estratégicamente el futuro de la infraestructura y los sistemas de agua de Santa Bárbara. Estoy encantada de contar con dos probados líderes asumiendo estos roles, cada uno aportando décadas de experiencia y un profundo compromiso con nuestra comunidad”, dijo McAdoo.

El Concejo Municipal considerará los acuerdos de empleo para ambos directores en su reunión del 16 de septiembre.

Brian D’Amour Nombrado Director de Obras Públicas

Como Director de Obras Públicas, Brian D’Amour supervisará Ingeniería y Operaciones de Obras Públicas, incluyendo transporte, mantenimiento de instalaciones y proyectos de mejora capital. Ingeniero Profesional licenciado y graduado de la Universidad Estatal de Pensilvania, D’Amour aporta más de 25 años de experiencia en los sectores público y privado. Ha servido a la Ciudad de Santa Bárbara desde 2007, más recientemente como Ingeniero de la Ciudad, y también ha ocupado roles como Director de Obras Públicas interino y Director Interino del Aeropuerto.

Durante su mandato, la Ciudad ha entregado numerosos proyectos de capital de alto impacto, modernizado sistemas de infraestructura y fortalecido la coordinación entre departamentos para mejorar la prestación de servicios y los resultados comunitarios.

“Las Obras Públicas tocan cada parte de nuestras vidas cotidianas, desde las carreteras que conducimos hasta los edificios que usamos. Como residente de esta ciudad de clase mundial, estoy orgulloso de liderar un equipo que está dedicado a hacer de Santa Bárbara un lugar seguro, sostenible y vibrante para vivir,” dijo D’Amour.

Para información y servicios del departamento, visite Departamento de Obras Públicas (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/PW).

Nuevo Departamento de Recursos Hídricos Será Dirigido por Joshua Haggmark

El recientemente establecido Departamento de Recursos Hídricos consolidará todos los servicios relacionados con el agua bajo una sola entidad, incluyendo el suministro de agua, el sistema de agua, el sistema de aguas residuales y las operaciones de desalinización. Joshua Haggmark, un ingeniero civil licenciado y graduado de Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, aporta 25 años de servicio a la ciudad, incluyendo 12 años como Gerente de Recursos Hídricos y más recientemente como Director de Obras Públicas interino.

Bajo su liderazgo, la ciudad ha navegado con éxito una sequía histórica, reactivó la Instalación de Desalinización Charles E. Meyer, y gestionó un diverso portafolio de suministro de agua que incluye el Lago Cachuma, el Embalse Gibraltar, agua subterránea, agua reciclada, Agua Estatal, y agua desalada.

“Nuestros recursos hídricos son esenciales para el futuro de Santa Bárbara, y me siento honrado de haber sido seleccionado para liderar este nuevo departamento enfocado en proteger y mantener este recurso valioso para las generaciones venideras. Este nuevo departamento refleja el fuerte compromiso de la Ciudad con la resiliencia hídrica, y me siento honrado de liderar a un equipo de servidores públicos tan dedicado y profesional,” dijo Haggmark.

Para información y programación sobre recursos hídricos, visite Recursos de agua (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/water).

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Candlelight vigil in La Quinta honors 9/11 victims and heroes

KESQ on September 11, 2025

Luis Avila

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) – A sea of candlelight illuminated the Civic Center Campus in La Quinta Thursday night, as residents gathered in solemn remembrance of the lives lost and the heroes who emerged on September 11, 2001.

The ceremony, part of ongoing 9/11 commemorations across the Coachella Valley, served as both a memorial and a call for unity in today’s divided times.

Dozens of community members joined local leaders for a moment of silence and reflection, standing shoulder to shoulder beneath the glow of candlelight. For many, the emotions tied to the tragic events of 9/11 remain just as raw more than two decades later.

“To this day, it still touches everyone… I’m here tonight to remember that horrible day and to honor all those poor souls that were taken.”

George Mendoza, Attendee

The centerpiece of the event was a permanent memorial featuring a steel beam recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center — a tangible reminder of the devastation and the resilience that followed.

City leaders spoke, recalling how the nation came together in the days following the attacks.

“We remember the unity. The compassion. The resolve. Strangers became neighbors. Communities became families. Our country stood tall.”

John Pena, La Quinta Council Member

The ceremony also focused on educating younger generations — many of whom weren’t yet born when the attacks happened.

“We are here to remember — yes, but also to teach. To remind each other and the generations to come that remembering matters because forgetting is not an option.”

Steve Sanchez, La Quinta Council Member

As candles flickered in the night, the overarching message was clear: unity, compassion, and courage must continue to guide us forward.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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City of Santa Barbara Appoints Brandon Beaudette as Library Director

KEYT on September 11, 2025

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the City of Santa Barbara regarding the appointment of their new Library Director, Brandon Beaudette.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The City of Santa Barbara is pleased to announce the appointment of Brandon Beaudette as the new Library Director, effective September 22, 2025. A dedicated public servant with over 25 years of experience in city government, Brandon brings a deep understanding o municipal operations and a passion for community-centered service to this leadership role. Brandon’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment process and confirmation by both City leadership and community stakeholders.

Brandon has served as Acting Library Director since April 2024, guiding the Santa Barbara Public Library system through a period of growth and revitalization. Under his leadership, the Central and Eastside branches have undergone major construction projects, while the Montecito branch has benefited from facility enhancements, including new furnishings and maintenance upgrades. All three locations have welcomed a return to pre-pandemic levels of community engagement.

“It’s an honor to serve as Library Director in the city I’ve called home for decades. I’m excited to continue working with our talented staff and community partners to ensure our libraries remain welcoming, inclusive spaces for learning, creativity, and connection,” said Beaudette.

A graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a B.A. in Psychology, Brandon has held key roles across several City departments, including Public Works, Finance, and the City Administrator’s Office. His broad experience and collaborative leadership style make him uniquely suited to lead the Library Department into its next chapter.

“Brandon’s leadership during his acting assignment has been exceptional. His deep institutional knowledge, commitment to equity, and vision for the future of our libraries make him the right choice to lead this department,” said City Administrator Kelly McAdoo.

As Library Director, Brandon will oversee the strategic direction and daily operations of the Santa Barbara Public Library system. Reporting directly to the City Administrator, he will guide a mission-driven department in delivering equitable access to information, education, and cultural resources. His responsibilities include managing the department’s budget, staffing, and policy development, while cultivating strong partnerships with community organizations, library foundations, and regional networks.

For more information about the Library Department, visit Santa Barbara Public Library (sbplibrary.org).

Traducción al Español:

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – La Ciudad de Santa Bárbara se complace en anunciar el nombramiento de Brandon Beaudette como el nuevo Director de la Biblioteca, con vigencia a partir del 22 de septiembre de 2025. Como servidor público dedicado con más de 25 años de experiencia en el gobierno municipal, Brandon aporta a este rol de liderazgo un profundo conocimiento de las operaciones de la ciudad y una pasión por el servicio centrado en la comunidad. Su nombramiento es el resultado de un proceso de reclutamiento competitivo y a la confirmación por parte de los líderes de la ciudad y los grupos de interés de la comunidad.

Brandon ha ocupado el cargo de Director Interino de la Biblioteca desde abril de 2024, guiando al sistema de la Biblioteca Pública de Santa Bárbara durante un período de crecimiento y revitalización. Bajo su liderazgo, las sedes Central y Eastside han llevado a cabo importantes proyectos de construcción, mientras que la sede de Montecito se ha beneficiado de mejoras en las instalaciones, incluyendo muebles nuevos y actualizaciones de mantenimiento. Las tres sedes de la Biblioteca han experimentado un regreso a los niveles de participación comunitaria previos a la pandemia.

“Es un honor servir como Director de la Biblioteca en la ciudad que he llamado hogar durante décadas. Me siento honrado de seguir trabajando con nuestro talentoso personal y con los socios de la comunidad para garantizar que nuestras bibliotecas sigan siendo espacios acogedores e inclusivos para el aprendizaje, la creatividad y la conexión,” dijo Beaudette.

Graduado de UC Santa Bárbara con una licenciatura en Psicología, Brandon ha ocupado roles clave en varios departamentos de la Ciudad, incluyendo Obras Públicas, Finanzas y la Oficina de la Administradora de la Ciudad (City Administrator). Su amplia experiencia y estilo de liderazgo colaborativo lo hacen ideal para dirigir el Departamento de Bibliotecas hacia su próximo capítulo.

“El liderazgo de Brandon durante su asignación como director interino ha sido excepcional. Su profundo conocimiento institucional, compromiso con la equidad y visión para el futuro de nuestras bibliotecas lo convierten en la elección correcta para liderar este departamento,” dijo Kelly McAdoo, Administradora de la Ciudad.

Como Director de la Biblioteca, Brandon supervisará la dirección estratégica y las operaciones diarias del sistema de la Biblioteca Pública de Santa Bárbara. Reportándose directamente a la Administradora de la Ciudad, guiará un departamento enfocado en la misión de brindar acceso equitativo a la información, la educación y los recursos culturales. Sus responsabilidades incluyen la gestión del presupuesto del departamento, del personal y del desarrollo de políticas, así como la construcción de sólidas alianzas con organizaciones comunitarias, fundaciones de bibliotecas y redes regionales.

Para obtener más información sobre el Departamento de Bibliotecas, visita La Biblioteca Pública de Santa Bárbara (sbplibrary.org).

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CalPIA offers career opportunities for incarcerated people in Soledad’s Correctional Training Facility

KION on September 11, 2025

Katie Nicora

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION-TV) — People incarcerated at the state prison in Soledad now have a chance to learn new job skills while they’re serving out their sentence. 

The California Prison Industry Authority (CalPIA) is partnering with surplus service and the CDCR to launch the new program.

They say it will offer valuable training to incarcerated folks for careers in the e-waste management industry, learning how to refurbish and repair electronics.

People in the program are hopeful about their futures beyond prison. 

“To actually thrive in a career where I can contribute, where I could provide for my family, where I can contribute to my community and society as a whole through this program,” said Andre Freer, an incarcerated man.

CalPIA says its programs have a 15% return-to-custody rate after three years, meaning 85% of program participants do not ever return to prison.

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The Wild West in Action: Mounted Shooting gallops into Rigby Saturday

KIFI on September 11, 2025

Jeff Roper

RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI) — The Gem State Showdown, a thrilling display of cowboy mounted shooting, is galloping into Rigby, Idaho, this Saturday, September 13. Hosted by the Gem State Gunslingers Mounted Shooting Club, this event brings the “Wild West in action” to life at the Wind River Arena.

Mounted shooting is one of the “coolest, fastest-growing sports in the nation,” says Troy Killpack of the Gem State Gunslingers. “I’m telling you, this group of cowboys and cowgirls—if we’d been alive 100 years ago, the O.K. Corral wouldn’t even be in the history books.”

The sport requires riders to race against a clock, weaving through a barrel course, and shooting targets with black powder revolvers while on horseback. The rules are simple: Hit all ten balloons with two single-action pistols, and the fastest clean run wins.

The show is led by Haley Walker, a level four mountain shooter and president of the Gem State Gunslingers. She promises an “action-packed all day” event that’s perfect for the whole family. The showdown kicks off at 11 AM at the Wind River Arena, 70 N 4600 E, Rigby, ID 83442.

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NTSB releases final report on investigation into deadly Cabazon firefighter helicopter crash

KESQ on September 11, 2025

Jesus Reyes

CABAZON, Calif. (KESQ) – The National Transportation Safety Board released its final report on an investigation into a helicopter crash that killed three firefighters in Cabazon in 2023.

Cal Fire Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and contract pilot Tony Sousa were killed when two helicopters collided mid-air while battling a fire in Cabazon on Aug. 6, 2023. The second helicopter, a Skycrane helitanker, sustained minor damage, and the pilot and copilot were not injured, according to the NTSB.

Probable Cause and Findings (Per NTSB 9/11/25):

“The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:The Skycrane flight crew’s decision to enter the Fire Traffic Area’s 7-nm NOCOM ring at analtitude significantly above their maximum cleared altitude, which resulted in their need for anaggressive descent into congested airspace and subsequent failure to see and avoid the Bell407.”

The Bell 407 and Skycrane were dispatched and departed about 3 minutes apart. The Bell 407 travelled north, skirting and staying west of the San Jacinto Mountain range between Hemet-Ryan Airport and the fire, while the Skycrane travelled northeast over the western section of the mountain range. Both helicopters were operating under FTA procedures overseen by CAL FIRE.

Recorded ADS-B data with select communications annotated

According to CAL FIRE’s procedures, inbound aircraft were required to contact the Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) for permission to proceed into both the 12-nm Initial Communication Ring as well as the 7-nm No Communication (NOCOM) Ring of the FTA.

Likely due to the mountainous terrain, neither helicopter was able to receive a clear radio signal from ATGS before entering the 12-nm ring. Instead, both helicopter crews decided to maneuver to have a better line of sight for radio transmission before reaching the 7-nm ring.

Flight track data and communication recordings showed that the Bell 407 flight crew initiated a 360° turn to establish communication with ATGS before crossing the 7-nm ring. Shortly after, they descended and leveled off at the maximum assigned altitude of 2,500 ft msl, about 5 nm from the fire, where they stayed in level flight until the collision.

ADS-B data during later part of flight with select communications annotated.

Report_WPR23FA302_192807_9_11_2025 5_37_56 PMDownload

Following the release of the final report, CAL FIRE released a list of actions the agency has taken to prevent similar events from occurring in the future

Aviation Safety Enhancements Implemented by CAL FIRE

Enhanced Pilot Training: Developed and implemented a comprehensive training program for Exclusive Use contract helicopter pilots. This includes three modules—totaling 14 hours—covering classroom instruction, sand table exercises, and flight training focused on safety, communications, strategy, tactics, Fire Traffic Area (FTA) procedures, Base/Unit expectations, interoperability with CAL FIRE aircraft, fire scenarios, and coordination with ground resources.

Strengthened After-Action Reviews: Mandated daily AARs led by aerial and/or base supervisors, with immediate reviews required following any identified FTA policy or procedure deviations.

Empowered Aerial Supervisors: Provided tools, guidance, and authority to supervisors to adjust tactics and resource application in real time to increase operational safety.

Expanded Briefings: Broadened Helitack and Air Attack Base morning briefings to include all assigned aircraft, defining roles, departure sequencing, flight routes in controlled or congested airspace, and expected actions upon arrival at incidents.

Updated Communications Protocols: Eliminated the use of “tower” terminology for CAL FIRE aviation communication facilities, standardizing the use of discrete frequencies.

Interagency Training: Distributed interagency safety training materials and conducted enterprise-wide training, including Crew Resource Management, FTA safety, and communications. A traveling CAL FIRE team also provided in-person training to cooperating counties and partner agencies.

Strengthened Contract Requirements: Revised aircraft contracts to require Traffic Avoidance Systems and Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast In (ADS-B) technology.

Standardized FTA Checklist: Developed and distributed a detailed FTA checklist with step-by-step instructions for entering FTAs, now integrated into CAL FIRE training programs and used by all CAL FIRE flight crews and Exclusive Use contractors.

Wrongful death lawsuits have been filed on behalf of all three fallen first responders in the Superior Court of Riverside County.

“We appreciate the NTSB’s thorough investigation and findings of accountability for this completely avoidable mid-air collision. These men were on a heroic mission to save lives, and their loss was tragic not only for their families but also for their communities,” said Gary C. Robb, the aviation attorney representing the Bischof and Rodriguez families. “The public on the ground and our first responders in the air are owed diligence and due care of flight operators during these firefighting missions. The system failed them here, and the families’ greatest wish is that safety practices will be improved as a result of lessons learned here, so this never happens again.”

Robb recently served as lead counsel for Vanessa Bryant in the helicopter crash that killed her husband, NBA legend Kobe Bryant. Robb was also involved in a settlement earlier this year for another firefighting helicopter pilot killed while fighting a 2020 wildfire in Southern California.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any new developments.

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