Author: KESQ

Julia Castro

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) —A 32-year-old man has been arrested in connection with last month’s deadly car bombing outside a Palm Springs fertility clinic, federal authorities announced Wednesday.

Daniel Park, of Kent, Washington, was taken into custody late Tuesday at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, according to U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles Bill Essayli. He was charged Wednesday with providing and attempting to provide material support to a terrorist, Essayli said.

Daniel Park

He is accused of helping supply the explosive materials used in the May 17 attack on American Reproductive Centers, which federal officials have labeled an act of domestic terrorism.

Park made his initial appearance in federal court in Brooklyn on Wednesday. He is set to be extradited to California.

Daniel Park courtroom sketch(Courtesy of Alba Acevedo)

The primary suspect in the bombing, 25-year-old Guy Edward Bartkus of Twentynine Palms, was found dead at the scene. Authorities say Park and Bartkus shared anti-natalist extremist views — a belief system opposing human reproduction — and that Park had been posting such content online since at least 2016.

Park was arrested as he returned to the United States from Poland, from which he was deported, Essayli said. Park “left the United States to go to Europe” days after the bombing.  

According to Essayli, Park shipped about 180 pounds of ammonium nitrate, which is “commonly used to construct homemade bombs,” from Seattle to Bartkus’ home in Twentynine Palms and also arranged for another shipment of an additional 90 pounds.

Three days before Park arrived at Bartkus’ house, records from an AI chat app show that Bartkus researched how to make powerful explosions using ammonium nitrate and fuel, federal prosecutors said.

FBI Assistant Director in Charge in Los Angeles Akil Davis said Park was also in possession of an “explosive recipe” similar to the device used in the deadly 1995 Oklahoma City federal city bombing.

Essayli said Park “shared Bartkus’ extremist beliefs” and he visited Bartkus’s home in Twentynine Palms for about two weeks in late January and early February, “spending time together running experiments in Bartkus’ garage, where the FBI recovered large quantities of chemical precursors and laboratory equipment after the bombing.”

Two days after the bombing, Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills told News Channel 3’s Peter Daut that authorities were investigating whether someone else may have been involved, stating that he believed other people had knowledge on the plan.

“You mentioned other people who may have been involved? Peter asked Mills.

Mills answered, “This is just my personal opinion, not professional, but yeah, I believe people knew because he was on… in chat rooms. He was on YouTube, he was experimenting with explosives. Other people knew that there were all kinds of views and comments on some of those, on some of those things.”

STATEMENT FROM PALM SPRINGS POLICE DEPARTMENT

The Palm Springs Police Department is aware of an arrest made by the FBI in connection with the May 17 bombing incident. We appreciate the ongoing work of the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force as they continue their investigation. Our department remains fully committed to working with our federal partners. Keeping our community safe is our top priority, and we will continue working closely with the FBI to make sure that happens.

We ask our community members to avoid speculation, as this remains an active investigation. The FBI is leading the case and continues to keep us informed. We will continue to share updates with the public as information becomes available and appropriate to release.

During the explosion, at least five people were injured, and the blast caused major damage to the clinic as well as 40 other properties, with at least 8 buildings deemed unsafe to occupy. The bombing caused approximately $12 million in damages. 

Thousands of embryos and eggs stored inside the facility were saved due to the quick response of emergency crews.

Officials said local law enforcement had not previously flagged either suspect. Evidence recovered from a phone at the scene showed Bartkus pacing outside the car for over 30 minutes before the explosion and speaking into the phone moments before detonation.

The investigation remains ongoing, and federal officials are asking the public to come forward with any information by calling 1-800 CALL FBI.

Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage on this developing story both on-air and online.

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Allie Anthony

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) — Richard Gauthier was 19 when he was sent to Vietnam to serve in the Army. After he was injured by fragments from a rocket launcher, he received a Purple Heart.

Now 79, Gauthier is a member of American Legion Post 739 in Indio, and he’s working to start a new Purple Heart chapter for members in the Coachella Valley. So far, he has found nearly 25 Purple Heart recipients in the area and is reaching out to them to help launch the local chapter.

The nearest chapter is in San Bernardino, where Gauthier drives once a month to attend meetings. He hopes to start the Coachella Valley chapter to support and uplift other Purple Heart recipients.

 

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Cynthia White

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KESQ) – Assembly Bill 1145 – “Tristin’s Bill” – passed the Assembly Floor with bipartisan support on Wednesday, marking a step forward in improving highway safety.

The bill directs the state to conduct a comprehensive safety study of Highway 74, along with similar roads across the state, which will analyze accident data and roadway conditions over the past ten years. The goal is to find dangerous patterns and to recommend safeguards to prevent tragedies in the future and protect drivers, residents, and visitors.

With Wednesday’s vote, AB 1145 now moves to the State Senate for further consideration.

The bill is named in memory of Tristin Bourgeois, a 27-year-old La Quinta resident who died in a crash with a big rig on Highway 74 near Vista Point in Palm Desert in October 2024.

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) said in a statement regarding the bill’s passage, “I am thankful to my colleagues in the Assembly for passing this commonsense study that will save lives in the community I call home. For far too long, Highway 74 has been plagued by traffic accidents and tragic deaths along a beautiful yet dangerous stretch of road that serves as a lifeline to our community. Tristin’s Bill is not only about honoring the life of Tristin Bourgeois – it’s about making sure no other family has to suffer the loss of a loved one.”

Stay with News Channel 3 for updates on this legislation.

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Jesus Reyes

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – A Cathedral City man arrested after five kittens were found dead in a trash bag was arraigned on Tuesday.

Jorge Edwin Ramirez pleaded not guilty to five counts of animal cruelty charges.

Ramirez was arrested on April 29 on the 32300 block of Aurora Vista Road after a resident called police and said they found a bag containing five dead kittens in their backyard, the Cathedral City Police Department reported.

During the investigation, CCPD officers found surveillance video which showed a suspect tossing a trash bag the reporting party’s fence on Friday, April 25 at about 10:30 a.m.

“The trash bag that was tossed over the fence contained five kittens which were later found deceased inside the bag. Officers were able to locate the suspect from the video,” reads a CCPD news release.

Ramirez was interviewed and admitted to the crime, police said.

He is scheduled to return to court on July 10 for a felony settlement conference.

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Jesus Reyes

UPDATE 06/06/2025:

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – After Tuesday’s downpour caused enough flooding, mud, and debris to make many area roads dangerous and impassable, the City of Twentynine Palms reported Friday evening that Adobe Road is now open, but down to one lane going north and south.

They say the city’s Public Works crew will continue working hard to completely open Adobe Road by next week.

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – A major road remains closed Wednesday after a storm brought flooding to Twentynine Palms.

As of 3 p.m. Wednesday, Adobe Road from Raymond Way to Amboy is closed all lane is all directions. City officials said there is between two feet to two and a half feet of standing water in the “Adobe Punchbowl.”

Indian Trail from Lear to Mesquite Springs is in an unknown condition.

The City’s Public Works Crew is finishing up clearing debris off the following roads. While the roads are now passable, constituents still need to travel with caution:

Mesquite Springs has been cleared from Two Mile to Indian Trail

Indian Trail has been cleared from Mesquite Springs to Adobe Road

Raymond Way has been cleared from Mesquite Springs to Adobe.

At the Marine Corps Base (MCAGCC), the Condor and Main gates are open. Ocotillo Gate is open for inbound traffic only, pending the clearing of Morongo Road.

“We are operating on a late-start this morning, with non-essential personnel reporting at 0900 to keep the roads clear of traffic for the road crews,” reads an update from the city.

Videos from residents on Tuesday around the area show flooding around the town, as well as hail.

Courtesy of Kate Hengl

News Channel 3 spoke with local drivers who jumped in to help neighbors stuck in the storm.

“I did several tonight for free. The CHP, says to go, we go,” David Bailey said. “It’s normally $250 an hour, but we’re not getting paid today.”

Lisa Nieves, Twentynine Palms resident, said the community comes together during situations like this. “We’re just going to move on and look for another day tomorrow,” Nieves said.

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Jesus Reyes

UPDATE 06/10/2025: PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Unified School District Board of Education has named Dr. Marcus Funchess as the new PSUSD Superintendent.

The PSUSD Board of Education will take action on Dr. Funchess’ contract at its upcoming June 24th meeting. Dr. Funchess will begin his employment on July 1st, following Dr. Tony Signoret’s retirement on June 30th.

Dr. Funchess says he looks forward to “building a solid foundation of trust, transparency, and collaboration,” adding that his initial goals are to elevate academic success and equity, and ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational excellence.

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Unified School District board of education has identified Dr. Marcus Funchess as a finalist to serve as the next Superintendent of Schools.

The selection comes after a rigorous selection process and vetting of more than thirty candidates.

The board will consider and is expected to consider and approve Funchess’ employment agreement, with a start date of July 1, at its June 24 meeting, immediately following Dr. Tony Signoret’s retirement on June 30.

Funchess is currently the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at the San Bernardino City Unified School District. He has a history of improving student achievement, building strong relationships with employees, parents, and community members, and focusing on the support of “scholars,” the title he gives to all the students he serves.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Funchess served as a Director of Human Resources, an elementary principal, an elementary assistant principal, and an elementary school teacher, all in the San Bernardino City Unified School District.

“Dr. Funchess has an impeccable reputation for integrity, advancing equitable outcomes for all students, fostering positive labor relations, and building strong community partnerships,” said PSUSD Board President Sergio Espericueta. “All of that, combined with his enthusiasm and passion for student success, has distinguished Dr. Funchess within a highly competitive field of outstanding candidates.”

Funchess earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Redlands, a master’s degree in Cross-Cultural Teaching from National University, and a bachelor’s degree from Cal State University of San Bernardino.

“From the moment I thought there was a possibility that I could be the next Superintendent of PSUSD,” commented Funchess, “I was inspired by the opportunity. I am prepared to lead and work with the PSUSD community, as we work together to implement a strategic, future-oriented vision that places student success at the forefront. I look forward to engaging with the students, employees, and community members as we begin this crucial work together.”

The PSUSD Board expressed its appreciation to the educational and community partners who contributed to focus groups and survey feedback to develop the leadership profile that was foundational to the superintendent selection process as well as all applicants who put forth their time and energy in offering their candidacy to serve PSUSD and its families in this vital role.

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Jesus Reyes

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) – A Yucca Valley man has been charged with threatening to assassinate then-President-elect Donald Trump after last year’s election, the Department of Justice announced on Tuesday.

Thomas Eugene Streavel, 73, of Yucca Valley, was arrested Monday and charged with three counts of making threats against the President-elect, the DOJ confirmed.

Streavel was arraigned in United States District Court in Riverside on Tuesday where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. A July 28 trial date was scheduled and a federal magistrate judge ordered him released on $10,000 bond.

According to the DOJ, if convicted, Streavel would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.

“This defendant is charged with threatening the life of our President – a man who has already survived two deranged attempts on his life,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice takes these threats with the utmost seriousness and will prosecute this crime to the fullest extent of the law.”

“The type of rhetoric and threats made by this defendant are similar to those that led to an attempt on the President’s life last year,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “There is no place for political violence or threats of violence in the United States. We will not hesitate to arrest and charge others who engage in similar criminal conduct.”

According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on May 29 and was unsealed Tuesday, Streavel used his Facebook account before the 2024 U.S. presidential election to post multiple messages expressing his desire to harm or have others harm President Trump.

After the 2024 presidential election, Streavel allegedly continued using Facebook to post about assassinating President Trump. For example, on November 6, 2024 – the day after the election – Streavel posted, “[T]rump is a dead man walking for the time being until a patriot like myself blows his [expletive] brains out in the very near future.

The indictment alleges several instances in which Streavel knowingly and willfully threatened to kill and inflict bodily harm on Donald Trump, who then was the President-elect of the United States.

On November 12, 2024, Streavel posted a message on Facebook that read, in part, that he was “willing to make America great again and blow his [expletive] brains out.”

On November 19, 2024, Streavel posted a Facebook message that read, in part, “Let me put a bullet right between the ears of your president-elect…That’s my purpose for living.”

On November 28, 2024, Streavel wrote on Facebook, “I’m praying for a successful assassination of your president-elect” and “My life’s mission is killing the worthless LOSER [expletive] and my mission starts tonight so watch yourself trump [sic], you are a dead [expletive] and I am your assassin.”

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Jesus Reyes

As temperatures rise in the Coachella Valley, the City of Palm Springs reminds residents that cooling centers are now available to provide relief when temperatures hit 100 degrees or higher.

The following locations will serve as cooling centers through the end of September:

James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center480 W. Tramview RoadOpen Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.(760) 323-8271

Palm Springs Public Library300 S. Sunrise WayOpen Monday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Tuesday & Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.(760) 322-7323

Check Out Our Cooling Center Section for an Interactive Map of Riverside County Locations

City officials say pets are welcome! Dogs must be on a leash, and cats must be in a carrier.

Additionally, Martha’s Village and Kitchen will operate the Palm Springs Access Center, 225 El Cielo Rd. (across from the airport), daily as a cooling space for unhoused individuals. Those in need of overnight shelter will be transported to the Palm Springs Navigation Center.

For more information, visit EngagePalmSprings.com

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Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Legendary LGBTQ+ trailblazer Mariah Hanson—founder and producer of The Dinah, the world’s largest and longest-running music festival for queer women, nonbinary folks, and allies—will take her final bow in September 2025 capping off an unprecedented 34-year run of music, celebration and LGBTQ+ cultural impact.

Hanson confirmed that the upcoming edition of The Dinah, set for September 24–28 at the Riviera Resort in Palm Springs, will be her final production—bringing a monumental era in queer culture and independent live events to a close.

Hanson stepping down does not mean the end for the festival. Organizers said Hanson is actively in talks with potential successors, “seeking the right partner to carry the torch forward and preserve the event’s powerful legacy of pride, visibility, and community for future generations.”

“After 34 unforgettable years, I’m stepping away from producing this world-famous celebration of queer joy, freedom, and connection. It’s been the honor of a lifetime to help create space where our community could be bold, wild, and unapologetically ourselves,” Hanson said. “I’ve often been asked when I would pass the torch. I never had a specific answer — only that I’d know when the moment felt right. And now, the time is right. It’s time for a new generation to bring their vision, energy, and heart to this legacy and take it even further. That’s my deepest hope.”

Founded in 1991 by Mariah Hanson, The Dinah has evolved from a grassroots weekend gathering into a global phenomenon, drawing thousands to a five-day experience filled with live music, iconic pool parties, and a spirit of transformation.

Mariah Hanson’s influence extends far beyond event production—she’s long been regarded as a tastemaker with a remarkable instinct for booking artists on the verge of explosion. Thanks to her The Dinah stage has repeatedly served as career inflection points for artists who would go on to shape the sound of a generation. From Lady Gaga to Katy Perry, Lizzo to Bebe Rexha and Doechii (among others), Hanson didn’t just predict their success—she helped launch it.

Hanson’s decision to step down comes from a place of reflection and reverence for what has been accomplished – and a desire to conclude on a high note, giving one final, unforgettable celebration to the community that helped build it, all while ensuring The Dinah is thoughtfully passed on to the right hands to continue its powerful legacy.

“If The Dinah has ever touched your heart, brought you joy, or helped you feel seen — I invite you to join me one last time as I close out my Dinah career and celebrate 34 years of unforgettable memories, community, and cultural impact,” Hanson said. “While my Dinah chapter is ending, the future is full of possibility in new hands. My hope is that this beloved torch is carried forward — so The Dinah can thrive for another 34 years and beyond.”

One final invitation to revel in the spirit of unity and community that defines the event—and to step into a world of empowerment and inclusivity, where authenticity is not just welcomed, but celebrated.

The Grand Finale promises to be a powerful homecoming celebration and an unforgettable thank you, with a line-up and legacy tribute that honor The Dinah’s musical history, queer cultural roots, inclusive ethos, community feel and contagiously electrifying energy.

One of the not-to-be-missed highlights of The Dinah’s Grand Finale will be the return of Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey from the cult lesbian TV series The L Word—the show that famously catapulted The Dinah onto screens around the world. In a full-circle moment that blends pop culture and queer legacy, the duo will be back where it all began appearing at The Saturday Pool Party, to sign their new book “So Gay for You” and take photos with fans. A limited number of 150 copies will exclusively be available at The Dinah for purchase and signed in person. They’ll also make a special appearance at the Saturday night party – —but not before they hit The Dinah’s iconic red carpet in head-turning looks.  Their presence is more than a moment —it’s a celebration of visibility, chosen family, and a powerful nod to the monumental mark The Dinah leaves behind. Keep an eye out— —more exciting announcements featuring Leisha and Kate are coming soon.

And that’s just the beginning. The Dinah 2025 is shaping up to be another grand slam, with a powerhouse entertainment line-up and a stellar wave of celebrity guests expected to join Mariah Hanson’s final Dinah. From chart-topping artists to iconic queer talent, Hanson will raise the bar one last time to deliver a celebration that will be nothing short of legendary. The full entertainment lineup drops in mid-June—get ready for a history-making finale and the most epic send-offs in Dinah history.

“This final Dinah is my personal love letter to the community — a celebration that reflects the boldness, beauty, and heart that have always defined who we are,” shares Hanson. “More than anything, I hope the legacy I leave is one of joy, connection, and possibility — a foundation for the next generation to build something even greater.”

At the heart of LGBTQ+ culture since 1991, The Dinah was never just a party – it was and will always be a movement, a unique sanctuary where generations of queer people came to connect, be seen and feel free and empowered in a safe space.

“This last edition isn’t just an event—it’s the culmination of 34 spectacular years of joy, liberation, visibility, and love. Whether you’re returning to relive the magic or experiencing it for the first time, this is your moment to be part of herstory,” says Mariah Hanson visibly moved. “Come raise a glass, dance under the sun, and help write this last, extraordinary chapter with me—a tribute to a journey that changed lives, built community and sparked decades of culture-shifting moments, bold firsts, and unforgettable memories. While I may be taking my final bow, the legacy we’ve built together will live on in every life it’s touched.”

Tickets and full event details are available now at www.thedinah.com

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Luis Avila

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) – Residents are outraged after finding flyers from a known hate group put up in plain sight across a shopping center parking lot in Rancho Mirage. The flyers appear to be from Patriot Front, an American white supremacist and neo-fascist hate group.

The flyers were discovered last week at the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford by Rico, who did not want to share his real name or face.

“It was concerning to me. Never seen this before in Rancho Mirage. I’ve lived here many years… I think the group wants it seen. Whoever posted it here wants to be seen.”

Rico, Rancho Mirage resident

Concern quickly spread throughout the community as photos of the flyers began circulating online.

“I think it’s disgusting and you know it’s there but I hate when you gotta go around and see it. It’s a terrible thing and I don’t understand very they do this.” 

Tim, Indio resident

News Channel 3 receiving a statement from the city of Rancho Mirage:

The City of Rancho Mirage has been made aware of some stickers attributed to the group known as “Patriot Front” being distributed near the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford.

The city unequivocally condemns the dissemination of hate-filled propaganda and any actions intended to intimidate or divide our community. These materials do not reflect the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity that Rancho Mirage proudly upholds.

The statement goes on to say the city is working with local law enforcement agencies to investigate the origin of the flyers. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Rancho Mirage Police Department at (760) 836-1600.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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