Pair of St. Louis County women charged with misdemeanor for filing false kidnapping report

KMIZ on March 31, 2026

Dan Kite

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Two women from St. Louis County have been charged after allegedly filing a false kidnapping report that led to an extensive police search for a 5-year-old girl on Monday.

Ashley M. Collins, 29, and Kayla Williams, 31, both of Afton, were charged on Tuesday with a misdemeanor for making a false report, Collins faces and additional charge for misusing “911” services, also a misdemeanor. Both were arrested this afternoon and are being held in the St. Louis County Jail and are being held on $10,000 bonds. Court dates have not been scheduled.

According to a probable cause statement, Collins called 911 on Monday to report that her 2020 Jeep Renegade was stolen with a 5-year-old girl inside. An Amber Alert was issued that afternoon and several resources — includes a helicopter and drone surveillance and a K-9 search team — were used. The vehicle was later found around a mile from the house, according to the statement.

During an interview with Collins, she reported that she had temporary guardianship of the child, and that they live with Williams. She alleged that she placed the child in the vehilce and went back inside, when she returned both were gone. Williams gave the same story during her own interview with police.

Upon realizing the vehicle was gone, Collins reportedly took Williams to work in a separate vehicle and called her bank to see if they could locate the car, before calling 911, according to court documents.

Five hours after the initial report, both reportedly admitted that, while the car had been stolen, the kidnapping report was a hoax, court documents say.

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City of Yuma receives $1.4 million grant to remove lead hazards in older homes

KYMA on March 31, 2026

Moses Femino

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The City of Yuma has been awarded a $1.4 million federal housing grant aimed at reducing lead hazards and improving living conditions in older homes across the community.

The Community Development Department say the funding will help homeowners address potential health risks tied to lead-based paint, which is most commonly found in homes built before 1978.

Removing lead is a complex process that goes beyond typical home repairs.

“It’s not as simple as a typical home repair,” said Cynthia Blot, the Assistant Director of Community Development. “Many of the homes that qualify were built in 1978, but this program focuses on homes that were built before 1978 where lead based paint was commonly used.”

The program is designed to target those older homes, helping reduce exposure risks. Especially, for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

For many homeowners, the cost of these repairs can be overwhelming. Residents say the grant could make a significant difference.

Blot emphasized the impact of the program. Explaining it goes beyond the present-day and how it will offer long-term benefits for families and neighborhoods.

“It does have a direct and long term effect on the community and the households in our community. It allows families to remain in their homes for a longer time and with safety,” she said.

Applications for the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant are set to open July 1.

Officials say the program is a step toward creating safer, healthier housing conditions throughout Yuma.

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Sisters sees overnight construction for safer pedestrian access

KTVZ on March 31, 2026

Spencer Sacks

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Department of Transportation began overnight construction on U.S. 20 in Sisters on March 29 to upgrade curb ramps and pedestrian crossings. The project aims to bring the infrastructure into compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

These improvements are designed to make it easier and safer for people walking or rolling to navigate downtown and access nearby businesses. To minimize daytime traffic impacts, most work will occur between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. from Sunday through Friday. The start date was moved forward from the original plan of April 12.

Work started at the intersection of Cascade Street and will continue west along the north side of U.S. 20. Travelers in the area can expect to see crews working throughout the project site during overnight hours. The construction will involve sidewalk, shoulder and lane closures, with flaggers directing traffic as needed.

Officials expect minimal traffic delays during the 12-hour work windows. Local business owners are preparing for the potential impact on tourism and daily operations. Spencer Hamiga is the owner of Sisters Bakery. Hamiga expressed optimism that the town will remain a destination for visitors during the construction period.

“I’m not really. No. Sisters is still a beautiful town to come to and enjoy the day. Enjoy springtime and summer,” Hamiga said. “So I know I think people are still going to be coming to sisters and having a good time.”

Hamiga noted that customers often go out of their way to visit local shops despite infrastructure obstacles.

“I honestly, I think people will jump over a chasm to get a donut,” Hamiga said.

While some owners expressed optimism, others shared concerns based on previous infrastructure projects in the area. One business owner, who declined to be interviewed, told KTVZ that their revenue dropped nearly 30% when sidewalks and streets were previously closed for upgrades. The current project is not expected to close streets or sidewalks in the same manner as previous efforts.

KTVZ reached out to the Oregon Department of Transportation for comment on the community concerns regarding business impacts. The agency has not yet responded to the inquiry.

The project is scheduled to continue through December. If the work is not completed by Memorial Day, crews will pause construction for the summer and return after Labor Day to finish the improvements.

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Truck driver charged with manslaughter in deadly Highway 20 crash pleads not guilty; bail reduced

KTVZ on March 31, 2026

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A truck driver whose jackknifed rig on Highway 20 east of Bend caused a crash and the death of a newlywed couple has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree manslaughter and other charges.

Deschutes County Circuit Judge Wells Ashby on Monday scheduled a Jan. 19, 2027 start for a nine-day jury trial of Rajinder Kumar, 32. The judge also set a Jan. 5 trial readiness hearing, which also will address whether Kumar will have to wear restraints during the trial. 

Kumar also faces three misdemeanor counts of reckless endangering stemming from the Nov. 24, 2025 crash about 50 miles east of Bend killed driver William Micah Carter, 25, and passenger Jennifer Lower Carter, 24. 

The Department of Homeland Security lodged an arrest detainer for Kumar, who the agency said is from India and entered the country illegally at the Arizona border three years ago. 

A Deschutes County Jail representative confirmed to KTVZ News on Tuesday that Rajinder’s bail had been reduced from $500,000 to $250,000, which was the amount originally set after his arrest. 

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Miller County prosecutor dies at 64

KMIZ on March 31, 2026

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Miller County Prosecutor Matthew Howard died on Monday. He was 64.

Howard served as Miller County’s prosecutor from 2002-14 and again from 2022 until his death.

Howard’s obituary says  a visitation and funeral service will be held Saturday at Bethany Lutheran Church in Eldon, followed by a burial at Eldon City Cemetary.

Howard was born in Jefferson City and graduated from Jefferson City High School in 1979, according to his obituary. He earned his law degree from the University of Missouri School of Law in 1985, the obituary says.

The prosecutor position is up for election in the Aug. 4 primary. The last day to file was Tuesday. County Clerk Clinton Jenkins told ABC 17 News that one person, Robert Seek, filed to run on Tuesday.

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Central Coast Recognizes First-Ever “Farmworkers Day”

KEYT on March 31, 2026

Alissa Orozco

OXNARD, Calif. (KEYT) – In the early morning hours, farm workers across the Central Coast made their way out to the fields to continue the necessary agriculture work that often goes unappreciated. Its the same thing they do everyday and will continue to do for days to come, but today – March 31st, 2026 is different – it marks the first established “Farmworkers Day.”

The field workers we spoke to say it feel good to have the recognition. The holiday was newly established to replace the former César Chavez Day, the late labor activist recently hit with allegations of sexual abuse against women and girls throughout the 1960s. Now, the day recognizes not just the efforts of one person, but rather the entire generations of farmworkers.

“It was overdue. I’ve been dreaming about this. We, we deserve that. We need that respect,” said Jesus Marmolejo of Marmolejo Farms King Produce.

Each day, hunched, bent, kneeling over for hours, farmworkers carrying not just the weight of harvest, but the weight of responsibility.

According to the state’s Department of Food and Agriculture, nearly half of the country’s fruits, vegetables, and nuts are sourced from California – but the labor behind the product is almost always an after thought.

As of Tuesday evening, only four states in the country have formally recognized the transition to Farmworkers Day. Oxnard School District is reportedly considering a new name for César Chavez Elementary.

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“Scratch for Schools” fundraiser returns to Southeast Idaho

KIFI on March 31, 2026

Maile Sipraseuth

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI)– The Idaho Lottery is bringing back its annual “Scratch for Schools” fundraiser to Southeastern Idaho, and this year’s event is set to be the largest yet. A record number of schools will participate across two days of high-energy competition aimed at raising money for public education.

Yesterday, 64 schools gathered at Idaho State University Extension in Idaho Falls, inside the Bennion Student Union multi-purpose room.

Today, another 53 schools will take part at the Pond Student Union Ballroom on ISU’s campus in Pocatello at 4 p.m.

Statewide, the Idaho Lottery is hosting 11 events with more than 514 schools registered to participate. This year marks the 25th anniversary of “Scratch for Schools,” a program that has returned more than $2.1 million to support public education and classrooms across Idaho.

Funds raised through the event can go towards a variety of classroom needs, including playground equipment, library books, and classroom technology.

In addition to the competition, organizers say the event is designed to be fun and visually exciting. Nearly 200 participants, including administrators, teachers, PTO members, and staff, will take part at each event, often dressed in costumes to show school pride.

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Idaho Falls Walmart undergoes remodel to streamline checkout process

KIFI on March 31, 2026

Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Idaho Falls’ Walmart storefront is getting a new look. The remodeling began last Sunday, March 29th.

A representative for the Walmart Corporation says their goal is to improve convenience by making checking out easier. This change includes moving more staff to the checkouts that can offer assistance.

The remodeling is expected to conclude in mid-April. The store will remain open as the remodeling continues.

Details are limited on what these improvements will look like for sure, but Local News 8 will monitor and keep you up to date.

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Man accused in 2025 Stephens Park standoff gets 120-day program, probation on the table

KMIZ on March 31, 2026

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A man who was charged after a several-hour standoff last August at Stephens Lake Park was sentenced on Monday.

Tre’shon Smith, 22, of Columbia, pleaded guilty to two felonies and “a series of misdemeanors” in the case, according to a Tuesday press release from Boone County Prosecutor Roger Johnson’s Office.

Court records show he was charged in one case with third-degree assault, fourth-degree assault, first-degree property damage, second-degree property damage and resisting arrest. In a second case stemming from a September 2025 incident, he was charged with first-degree harassment and first-degree property damage.

He was sentenced to a 120-day treatment program and can be released on probation if he successfully completes it, otherwise he faces a five-year prison sentence.

Smith allegedly threatened “suicide by cop” on Aug. 11, 2025, at Stephens Lake Park while wielding a knife and having alcohol, court documents in previous reporting say. Officers used a stun gun to take him into custody.

The press release says in September, Smith was accused of kicking in the front door of an apartment after an argument occurred with its occupants.

““We appreciate the courage of the victims and witnesses who came forward and participated in this prosecution, and we are pleased that after discussing this plea agreement with all of the victims involved, they are happy with the outcome,” Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Paul Wade said in the release. “We also thank the Columbia Police Department for their instrumental roles in investigating these incidents, safely managing these dangerous situations, and apprehending the Defendant.”

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Defending champion Spud Kings open playoffs at home Tonight

KIFI on March 31, 2026

Max Gershon

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Falls Spud Kings are gearing up to defend their NCDChockey Mountain Division title as the 2026 playoffs begin.

The quest for back-to-back championships begins tonight as the Spud Kings face off with the Grand Junction River Hawks. Puck drop is set for 7:05 for game one of the best-of-5 Mountain Division semifinals.

Despite entering the postseason on home ice, the Spud Kings are still looking for a little momentum. The Spud Kings finished the season dropping their last two games with a 5-2 loss to the Utah Outliers and a 4-2 loss to the Rock Springs Miners.

That being said, the Spud Kings did enough throughout the rest of the regular season to finish second in the Mountain Division.

This season, the Spuds won 6 of 9 against the River Hawks and have won each of the last four. 

In their last matchup, which was just 11 days ago, they beat Grand Junction 5-1, thanks to goals from Santino Canevari, Sam Grimaldi, Bookie Warshaw, Hunter Whisenand, and Andrew Schmidt. 

The Spuds have already punched their ticket to the big stage, thanks to their cup win out in New Jersey a season ago. That means win or lose in the division playoffs, the Spuds already have one of the four spots locked up in the Division Cup. 

Make sure to download the Local News 8 APP for score updates throughout the game.

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