Drug agents find fentanyl, meth and guns in crashed car, arrest two fugitives north of Madras

KTVZ on September 26, 2025

Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video)

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — A long-term drug investigation concluded Wednesday night when a suspected trafficker’s vehicle crashed north of Madras, and detectives with the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team seized large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine and three guns, authorities said.

Officers said they suspect the drugs were introduced into Jefferson County from the Portland area.

“This was a coordinated, multi-agency effort targeting narcotics coming into Central Oregon intended for wide distribution,” Bend Police Lt. Mike Landolt said in a CODE Team news release Thursday evening.

The incident began around 9 p.m. Wednesday when police identified a black 2023 BMW X1 believed to be transporting illegal drugs headed toward Madras on Highway 26. They tried to stop the SUV after the driver turned onto NW Gumwood Lane and pulled into a private driveway, Landolt said.

The driver, identified as Tyler Wayne Fuller, 36, of Redmond, tried to flee, hitting a fence on the property, then driving through a lawn and hitting another fence and boulders before tipping onto its side. Police were not pursuing the car when it crashed, according to Landolt.

All three vehicle occupants were evaluated at St. Charles–Madras, Landolt said.

Inside the BMW were Fuller and two passengers, John Christopher Allen Richardson, 28, of Bend, and a 36-year-old Redmond woman. Fuller was found to have a federal warrant for his arrest, and Richardson had a parole violation warrant. Both men were later lodged at the Jefferson County Jail.

After a drug detection K-9, Bonnie, alerted to the odor of drugs in the car, officers obtained and executed a search warrant, discovering what Landolt called a “significant amount” of fentanyl and methamphetamine, along with three firearms, drug records, packaging materials and a scale.

“All occupants of the vehicle are convicted felons and are not legally allowed to possess firearms,” Landolt said. The woman was cited for felon in possession of a firearm.

Police—including the Madras Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Marshals—assisted in the investigation.

“This case remains under investigation, and additional charges may be filed,” Landolt noted.

The CODE team and partners continue to target narcotics distribution networks in Central Oregon, Landolt said, emphasizing community safety and multi-agency cooperation

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Electric scooter theft prompts security warnings from local retailers

KESQ on September 26, 2025

Luis Avila

LA QUINTA, Calif. (KESQ) – As electric bikes and scooters continue to grow in popularity, they’re also catching the attention of thieves — leading to a troubling rise in thefts.

Following the arrest of two men accused of stealing electric scooters in Rancho Mirage, local shop owners are urging riders to take extra precautions to protect their rides.

Bryan Newman, owner of Pedego Electric Bikes in La Quinta, says thefts are becoming more common — and not just from the streets.

“It’s probably a little more common than most people would assume. We’ve had some theft with bikes that were stolen that were customers’ bikes that were in for service that were just put outside for a moment.”

Bryan Newman, Pedego Electric Bikes Owner

One brazen theft was even caught on camera last year, when someone walked up to the front of Newman’s store and rode off with a bike in broad daylight.

According to Newman, many of these thefts are crimes of opportunity. Some bikes are used for a quick getaway, then abandoned. But others are stripped down or resold, making them nearly impossible to identify.

Newman says it all starts with the basics: investing in a high-quality lock and knowing how to use it properly.

“Having a good quality lock is good and understanding not to lock them through the tires. Often people can just loosen a tire with a couple of axel nuts, in some cases by hand.”

Bryan Newman, Pedego Electric Bikes Owner

But heavy-duty locks aren’t always enough and can be expensive. That’s why some riders are turning to tech — such as Apple AirTags or other GPS tracking devices — to keep tabs on their bikes. Newman and other local shop owners are also taking steps to educate their customers on theft prevention and smart storage practices.

As electric mobility continues to grow in the desert, one thing is clear — riders need to stay one step ahead to keep their e-rides safe.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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New Arizona law to protect minors from adult websites

KYMA on September 26, 2025

Danyelle Burke North

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Starting this Friday, September 26, a new Arizona age verification law will go into effect to stop minors from accessing adult websites.

The law requires websites to verify a user’s age before granting access. If the companies violate the law, they could face steep penalties, including fines of up to $250,000.

Arizona State Representative Nick Kupper (R-District 25) sponsored the bill and says the law will help protect kids.

“They’re going to be children who find ways around this and different things like that. However, the vast majority of children who may have currently been exposed to pornography are going to not be exposed now as early,” said Rep. Kupper.

Companies must get rid of the information entered by people afterwards, even though some question whether their information will be protected.

Arizona now joins more than 20 states with similar laws.

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City of Bend survey finds overwhelming ‘hate’ for Greenwood Avenue ‘road diet,’ despite massive increase in cyclists, pedestrians

KTVZ on September 26, 2025

Harley Coldiron

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A year-old pilot program to reduce traffic speeds, improve safety, and encourage walking and cycling has sparked sharp division in the city of Bend.

The program converted a four-lane roadway into two lanes as part of a “road diet” designed to curb crashes and make the corridor safer for pedestrians and cyclists. But a recent survey of nearly 2,000 residents shows the changes have been overwhelmingly unpopular with drivers.

According to the results, 80 percent of respondents said they “hated” the new design. Only 10 percent described the changes as “great” or “good.” The most common complaints centered on increased congestion and limited parking along the corridor.

Despite the pushback, city officials say the redesign has already produced measurable safety improvements. Data shows that vehicle speeds have dropped by as much as five miles per hour.

At the same time, the number of people walking and biking through the area has surged. In some stretches, cycling activity rose nearly 300 percent, and pedestrian traffic increased 150 percent.

Greenwood_Feedback_Summer_2025Download

Supporters of the project argue that those shifts are proof that the changes are working, but critics counter that the majority of people relying on the corridor still use cars, and they feel the pilot unfairly burdens drivers.

The city council has not made a final decision on the program’s future and is holding off on permanent changes, for now. Officials say they will continue gathering feedback and data before determining the next steps.

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Redmond Fire & Rescue reopens outdoor burning next week, but there are rules – and debris burning is banned in the city

KTVZ on September 26, 2025

KTVZ

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Redmond Fire & Rescue announced Thursday it will reopen outdoor burning at 8 a.m. next Wednesday, October 1, but advised there are rules to follow, including a ban on debris burning within the city limits.

Here’s the fire department’s full news release:

With the forecasted decrease in temperatures, the risk for fire spread has decreased to safe levels. Redmond Fire & Rescue would like to remind anyone who is conducting outdoor burning of the regulations for the areas served by Redmond Fire & Rescue:

NO DEBRIS BURNING INSIDE THE CITY LIMITS OF REDMOND AT ANY TIME

Open debris burning inside the city limits of Redmond is prohibited per Redmond Fire & Rescue Ordinance #5. Failure to comply can result in a citation and fines.

Campfires, warming fires, and cooking fires, in approved fire rings or appliances, are allowed year-round when the regulations below are followed. These fires are allowed within city limits and no permit is required.

All types of fires may be banned in peak fire conditions.

A burn permit is required for open burning. A burn permit is not required when using a burn barrel, however you must still check the burn line to determine if burning is allowed. Burn permits are available online at www.rdmfire.org. 

General Requirements

Each day, before you begin your outdoor burning, you must call the outdoor burning number at 541-504-5035 and utilize the burn permit online system to determine if burning is allowed. A permit is required.

You are completely responsible, criminally and personally, including any suppression costs, for any fire you start. These regulations do NOT relieve responsibility for conducting a safe and attended burn.

All fires shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Fires should be cold to the touch to be considered completely out.

A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment such as a shovel and dirt, garden hose, or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.

Open burning shall be prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous. The fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of any fire which creates or adds to a hazardous situation.

All fires shall have a minimum of 10 feet around the fire clear of combustibles.

An adult must be in attendance at all times.

To Report an Illegal Burn

Call the non-emergency dispatch line at 541-693-6911 to report an illegal burn. Or to report individuals who are burning items not approved by DEQ, please call DEQ at 541-388-6146.

Residential Outdoor Burning of Yard Debris (only permitted outside the Redmond city limits with a valid permit)

Provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to any structure. To apply for a permit, visit www.rdmfire.org.

Fires in approved containers shall not be less than 15 feet from any structure.

The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet where the pile size is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height.

The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 50 feet where the pile size is greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height.

Burn piles need to be sized so fires will be completely out by the required time indicated on the burn information line.

Burn barrels shall be at least 15 feet from any structure.

Absolutely no debris burning after dark.

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Community Conversations: New cleanup effort ‘The Big Bend Pickup’ launches in October

KTVZ on September 26, 2025

Lynsey Harris

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A new community cleanup event is taking shape in Bend, aiming to expand the work already being done through the Bend Beautification Program.

Danny Goll and his wife recently adopted Galveston Avenue through the program, and after a few cleanups there, they wanted to take it citywide. That’s how the idea for The Big Bend Pickup was born.

The first event is set for Saturday, October 4th. Volunteers can sign up at BigBendPickup.com and will be sent to designated areas identified as needing the most attention. Goll says participants will be provided with pickers and trash bags to collect litter.

Afterward, volunteers will receive a token redeemable for a free beer at participating sponsors, including Sunriver Brewing, Bend Brewing, Podski, and Silver Moon.

“The more people that participate, the better,” Goll said. “Our goal is to eventually have more than 100 people at a time so we can cover as much of the city as possible.”

Goll added that for him and his wife, the effort is about pride in their community. “We moved here because we view Bend as our little slice of paradise. It feels good to contribute, and when people honk and wave while we’re out there, it really reinforces that community feel.”

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Four community leaders honored at Spirit of Palm Springs Awards

KESQ on September 26, 2025

Haleemon Anderson

PALM SPRINGS, CA (KESQ) – Palm Springs Mayor Ron deHarte presented the Spirit of Palm Springs award to four community leaders.

The annual award, presented at City Hall on Thursday, honors individuals and businesses whose dedication, innovation, and community service exemplify the values of the city of Palm Springs.

The recipients of the prestigious annual honor are:

Julieta Quinn, General Manager of Spencer’s Restaurant

Lili Rodriguez, artistic director of the Palm Springs International Film Society;

Pedro S.G. Rodriguez, executive director/CEO, Coachella Valley Housing Coalition;

Marcel Ramirez, owner of Gabino’s Creperie and

Erika Flannery, co-owner of Cafe La Jefa.

“Each recipient has made significant contributions that strengthen our community fabric and enhance our city’s reputation as a destination of choice,” said Mayor deHarte.

“These remarkable honorees represent the entrepreneurial spirit, compassion, and commitment to excellence that make Palm Springs such a special place to live, work and visit.”

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Annual ‘Respect the Law’ banquet honors law enforcement

News-Press NOW on September 26, 2025

TaMya Bracy

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — On Thursday evening, the Optimist Clubs of St. Joseph hosted its 11th annual Respect the Law banquet.

The banquet is hosted every year to recognize the efforts of local law enforcement agencies.

Multiple law enforcement agencies were in attendance, including the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol, St. Joseph Police Department and the Missouri Western State University Police Department.

The banquet was originally hosted to recognize the efforts of the MSHP, but over time, the club expanded to all city agencies.

Harold D. Stewart said it touched his heart to see all of the city agencies attend the banquet.

“Our program has been going on for, like I say, now, the 11th year, it is an honor that definitely does not need to be overlooked,” he said.

The banquet started with a short speech, followed by a prayer. After the prayer, dinner was served to all guests.

St. Joseph Mayor, John Josendale, delivered a speech and proclaimed Sept. 25 “Respect the Law” Day.

State Representative Brenda Shields delivered a speech thanking law enforcement for the daily work they do.

Each law enforcement branch received an award sponsored by each member of the Optimist Club.

Stewart said we should try to help our fellow officers in the community.

“Just whenever you get an opportunity, if you’re called into a situation where you see an officer need some physical help, step up and don’t turn your back on that officer,” he said.

The banquet ended with a closing remark and readings from the Creed.

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“A safe ride every time” Child Passenger Safety week reminds parents to check car seats

KIFI on September 26, 2025

Ariel Jensen

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – It’s child passenger safety week, a time to make sure your young ones are getting to point A to point B safely. Child safety is important year-round, but with school back in session and after-school activities, more kids are traveling on the road. Parents and drivers are being reminded how to travel safely with children.

“It is a good time to bring awareness to that and make sure that you’ve got the proper car seat, the proper child seat, and make sure it’s installed correctly,” said Sgt. Bryan Lovell with the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office.

It’s important to know the details of your car seat because not all of them are the same. 

“Having the right car seat, the right size car seat for your child, is very important. They’re engineered in for safety, for certain sizes of children, you know, with the harnesses and the buckles and having them properly installed,” said Lovell.

If your car seat is a hand-me-down, do some research on it.

Check with the manufacturer, make sure it hasn’t been recalled, and make sure it’s not expired. 

“It’s important to check that because the materials used to make those car seats can break down over time,” said Lovell. “So the manufacturers should have a label or some sort of imprint on the car seat somewhere. It might be under the padding, under the plate, under the cloth, or under the padding of the seat. So you might have to lift some of that up to check.”

Some drivers think iit’s a short ride to ‘grandma’s house, it’s walking distance to church, I don’t need to put my child in a car seat,’ but you absolutely do.

“I see it a lot in traffic on some of the major arteries. And that’s probably the biggest mistake, because even a slow speed crash can cause a significant injury to the child and the people in the car,” said Lovell.

For more car seat resources, visit this link here.

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Yuma City Council turns down elevator and lula amendment

KYMA on September 26, 2025

Eduardo Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Yuma City Council turned down an amendment requiring elevators for new multi-story buildings regardless of size.

On a three-to-three vote, the council did not pass codes requiring multi-story buildings less than three-thousand square feet to have an elevator or a lula.

The amendment would have only applied to future commercial buildings built.

Still, the council argued not many buildings met these requirements to begin with, and it would cost future building owners even more money to install.

Council member Chris Morris sent us a statement saying: 

“The City Council made the appointments for the board members that make up the Building Advisory Board, and I think it’s important that us as a council, that we try to follow those recommendations provided by those professionals.”

City Council member Leslie McClendon says that while she is disappointed in the vote, she is still grateful for the improvements the board has made towards ADA compliance.

“They did their due diligence in allowing Chapter 11 to go through with a little bit more of some stipulations to approve, improve, what we need moving forward, so I’m very happy,” she says.

But Alexis Liggett, a local mother of a disabled child, says she is disappointed the amendment did not pass.

“I recognize that substantial changes are being made to improve accessibility and I’m really grateful for that, but at the same time these updates are really just kind of catching us up to barriers that shouldn’t exist today,” Ligget said.

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