Author: KIFI

Seth Ratliff

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Pocatello Police are asking for the public’s help locating a driver involved in a hit-and-run with a bicyclist.

The crash happened Saturday afternoon between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM between The 19th Hole and the Sand Trap in Pocatello. According to a post by investigators, they currently have no leads or physical evidence identifying the suspect vehicle or driver.

Pocatello police urge anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward.

“Even seemingly minor details could be helpful. Thank you for sharing this post and helping us reach anyone who may have witnessed the incident,” states the post.

If you were in the area or saw the crash, click HERE to contact Pocatello Police.

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Danielle Mullenix

UPDATE:

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — Betkouski was discovered beneath a pew at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Dec. 4, 1982, having ingested cyanide following a confessional service. He carried $1,900 in cash and left a typewritten suicide note instructing that the money cover his funeral expenses, signed only with the alias “William L. Toomey.” Without identification, his identity remained a mystery to authorities for decades.

The breakthrough came after Detective Tim Cooper with the Ada County Sheriff’s Office reopened the cold case in 2019. Local experts examined key evidence and deciphered an engraving on one of 30 keys recovered from the body, tracing it to “Mills Court” in Jacksonville, Florida.

“Working with investigators and records personnel in Jacksonville, our office was able to acquire property deeds dating back to the late ’70s and early ’80s from Mills Court,” Cooper said. “Our office attempted to locate everyone listed on those past deeds.”

That trail led investigators to a family member who confirmed a brother had gone missing in 1982. Subsequent DNA testing between the surviving relative and evidence recovered from the original scene confirmed the victim was Betkouski.

Unmasking the “Unknown Wanderer” unlocked a far more chilling possibility: a possible connection to the 1982 Chicago Tylenol poisonings, which claimed seven lives just three months before Betkouski’s death.

Betkouski had a background in chemistry and maintained an interest in cyanide and explosives. Following a major head injury in 1974, those close to him reported that he became paranoid and strange. Personal items recovered during the investigation included a 1970s map of Chicago and a small bottle labeled cyanide.

Renowned forensic psychiatrist Dr. Park Dietz reviewed the cold case findings alongside investigators and noted the strong overlap.

“Detective Cooper and I co-presented to the largest group of experienced criminal profilers at the FBI Academy, where everyone agreed this was a viable suspect,” Dietz said. “They were as convinced as I that Detective Cooper may have unlocked the most important unsolved murder of my lifetime—the Chicago Tylenol murders.”

Ada County officials confirmed that evidence gathered during the investigation has been shared directly with the Chicago Police Department. Despite the compelling behavioral profile, law enforcement has cautioned that Betkouski has not been formally named a suspect in the Tylenol killings.

However, the case is slated to gain national attention in an upcoming episode of Unsolved Mysteries airing Oct. 9. Ada County Sheriff Matt Clifford said he hopes the national broadcast will generate new tips to bring final resolution to both cold cases.

Editor’s Note: This story was adapted from an original on-air broadcast report with the assistance of AI. All content is thoroughly reviewed and verified for accuracy by the Local News 8 editorial team.

ORIGINAL:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – For nearly 44 years, a man known only as the “Unknown Wanderer” has remained one of Idaho’s most enduring unidentified-person cases.

This morning, investigators say they may finally know who he was.

Sketch of William L. Toomey

The Ada County Sheriff’s Office is expected to reveal the man’s identity Wednesday morning, along with new information about a possible connection between the decades-old Boise cold case and the infamous 1982 Tylenol poisonings in Chicago.

The announcement is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, with Ada County Cold Case Detective Tim Cooper and Sheriff Matt Clifford expected to speak alongside forensic psychiatrist Dr. Park Dietz and “Unsolved Mysteries” co-creator and executive producer Terry Dunn Meurer.

A decades-long mystery dating back to 1982

The case began the evening of Dec. 4, 1982, when an unidentified man was found dead beneath a pew at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Boise. Church members had previously seen the man at the 4 pm confession service.

According to the Doe Network, the man was believed to be between 35 and 45 years old. Investigators determined he died by suicide after ingesting a cyanide pill.

A typewritten note found by his body instructed that the money he carried be used for his funeral and cremation, with anything remaining donated to the church.

Interior of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church today in Boise, Idaho

He also had $1,900 in cash beside him, including 19 $100 bills, but no identification.

Despite years of investigation, authorities have been unable to identify him.

While the suicide note was signed with the name “Wm. L. Toomey,” investigators later determined that it was an alias:

Suicide note found near the “Unknown Wanderer”

“In the event of my death, the enclosed currency should give more than adequate compensation for my funeral or disposal (preferred to be cremated) expenditures. What is leftover, please take this as a contribution to this church. God will see to your honesty in this.”

— Wm. L Toomey

Investigators followed leads across several states, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Illinois.

The case eventually became known as the “Unknown Wanderer.”

A string of clues

The man was described as well-groomed and physically fit. He wore western-style clothing and a belt buckle containing a Mexican 100-peso coin. Investigators traced his belt to a western shop in Phoenix, Arizona.

The “Unknown Wanderer”‘s belt buckle

The name “William L. Toomey” also led investigators to a Massachusetts company that manufactured clothing for priests and nuns. However, investigators could not establish a connection between the company and the unidentified man.

His fingerprints also did not match any available databases. It is also unknown if authorities were able to retrieve DNA from the original scene.

The mystery received national attention when the case was featured on “Unsolved Mysteries” in 1990.

A possible link to the Tylenol Poisonings of 1982

The latest development adds another layer to the mystery.

The Ada County Sheriff’s Office says its investigation may have uncovered a connection between the Unknown Wanderer and the 1982 Tylenol poisonings, in which seven people in the Chicago area died after taking cyanide-laced capsules three months prior.

Those deaths occurred in September and October 1982 — just months before the unidentified man died in Boise from cyanide poisoning.

New Packing of over-the-counter medications was the immediate result of these murders PBS News

Authorities have not publicly explained what they believe the connection may be. They expect to reveal it during today’s press conference.

The Tylenol killings remain unsolved. The case prompted major changes to over-the-counter medication packaging, including the widespread use of tamper-evident packaging.

A possible destination for the “Unknown Wanderer”

The Unknown Wanderer was eventually buried in Eagle under the name “William Toomey,” the alias used on his suicide note.

Now, after more than four decades, investigators say that name may finally be replaced by the man’s true identity.

The Ada County Sheriff’s Office is expected to provide those answers during Wednesday morning’s news conference.

Local News 8 will continue to update this story as investigators release new information. To watch the press conference this morning, click here.

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Max Gershon

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Ask Kason Loveland about his favorite moment of the football season, and his answer comes quickly.

“My touchdown made me happy.”

For Kason, a senior at Thunder Ridge High School, that touchdown was more than one trip to the end zone.

It was months of practice, a dream he had shared with his coaches and a moment that showed just how much No. 77 means to the Thunder Ridge football program.

Before the Titans took on Bonneville earlier this season, Kason got his chance.

Thunder Ridge had been preparing for it for months.

A Thunder Ridge coach said Kason was asked in the spring what he wanted to accomplish during his senior season. His answer was simple: he wanted to score a touchdown.

So the Titans went to work.

The team practiced the play roughly 10 to 15 times. Thunder Ridge then reached out to Bonneville, which agreed to help make the moment happen.

When the time finally came, Kason took the football and headed for the end zone.

The plan may have been rehearsed.

Kason’s reaction was not.

One teammate said he had never seen Kason smile so much.

For Kason’s father, watching his son reach the end zone brought back memories that went far beyond football.

He said he teared up as he thought about the challenges Kason has faced throughout his life and how much being included with others has always meant to him.

Then, when Kason came off the field, his dad gave him a hug.

The celebration did not end there.

Thunder Ridge records its plays so players and coaches can review them on the sideline. After his touchdown, Kason went straight to the iPad with his coaches and teammates.

Just like any other player, they broke down the film.

Was the blocking right? Was Kason carrying the ball correctly? Did everybody do their job?

His coach said one of his favorite parts of the moment was that Kason wanted to be coached.

Since then, Kason has watched the touchdown plenty more times.

His father estimates at least 100.

Sometimes Kason will go into his room, pull up the video and sit on his bed smiling as he watches it again.

But the touchdown only tells part of his story with the Titans.

Kason has Down syndrome and has limited speech. During his interview, he used his communication device to talk about the things that matter most to him.

“I love football.”

“I love my teammates.”

“I’m 77.”

And around Thunder Ridge, his teammates make it clear that Kason is not simply someone who stands on the sideline.

He is one of them.

He comes to morning weights. He is at practices. He celebrates with the team. He breaks down huddles. He greets players coming off the field with hugs and fist bumps.

One coach said Thunder Ridge’s offensive linemen look forward to seeing Kason when they come off the field — before they have to hear what the coach thought about the previous series.

His teammates say Kason has also become the person who can change the mood when football is not going well.

After a bad drive, when frustration starts building, Kason is there.

After a loss, he is there.

One teammate recalled sitting in the locker room upset after a loss to Bear River. Kason came over and gave him a hug.

Another said Kason helps remind the Titans that even when they are locked into a game, football is still supposed to be fun.

“Honestly, it’d be so boring without him,” Senior Colt Crystal said.

For another Thunder Ridge player, the relationship started during one of the lowest points of his own football career.

After suffering an ankle injury last season, he was stuck on the sideline with crutches when Kason came over and began joking with him.

The friendship grew from there.

The two spent time together at school, talked outside of football and became close enough that the teammate now calls Kason one of his best friends.

He said he plans to keep Kason in his life even after high school ends.

That bond is hardly unique inside the Titans’ locker room.

Kason’s father said players regularly text and FaceTime his son to see what he is doing.

And as Thunder Ridge has enjoyed one of the strongest starts in the program’s young history, Kason has been right in the middle of it.

He celebrates the wins.

He joins the team.

He gets excited with the student section.

And through it all, his coaches say he has also taught them something.

Offensive line coach Christopher Carnes said Kason has reminded him to enjoy the days that come with a football season — good or bad, rain or sunshine — instead of letting each practice or result become too serious.

That may be Kason’s biggest contribution to Thunder Ridge.

The touchdown gave him a moment he will never forget.

But every day since has shown why the Titans were so excited to celebrate it with him.

Because Kason Loveland did not become part of the Thunder Ridge football team when he crossed the goal line.

He was already a Titan.

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David Pace

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Pocatello spiced up the political scene with a non-partisan “Meet Your Candidates: Speed Dating-style” night at the Idaho State University ballroom tonight.

Voters were able to meet 10 of the 12 candidates running for Idaho’s Legislature District 29 in Pocatello and District 28 representing Chubbuck and surrounding areas.

The activity was sponsored by the Idaho State University Political Science Club, Southeast Idaho Citizens for Democracy and Braver Angels.

“We’d like to give the participants, the voters, an experience of meeting candidates up close and personal,” said Braver Angels Organizer Dr. Michael Jindra.

Residents asked questions for 15 minutes to each of the five candidates running from their region. 

Voters inquired about data centers, healthcare, Medicare cuts, protecting public land, relations with the Shoshone-Bannock tribe and more.

“There’s a lot of toxicity in politics right now through advertisements, through the internet,” Jindra said. “This is a personal event that helps people get to know candidates face-to-face, and I think that kind of helps tone it down a little bit.”

Candidates who participated are starred:

Idaho Senate District 28

*Jim Guthrie (R) and *Mandy Peace (D)

Idaho House of Representatives District 28 Seat A

*Kim Jackman (D) and Rick Cheatum (R) 

Idaho House of Representatives District 28 Seat B

*Dan Garner (R) and *Jayson Meline (D) 

Idaho Senate District 28

*James Ruchti (D) and John Crowder (R)

Idaho House of Representatives District 29 Seat A*Dustin Manwaring (R) and *Mary Shea (D)

Idaho House of Representatives District 29 Seat B

*Nate Roberts (D) and *Jennifer Miles (R)

Local News 8 will publish in-depth reports with each candidate in the weeks before the general election on November 3, 2026.

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Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Gas prices have shot up an average of 10 cents overnight across the state, according to AAA. In Idaho Falls and Pocatello, gas prices jumped 17 cents, making the cost of regular gasoline over $5 a gallon. The statewide average is around $4.96 a gallon, which is roughly 30 cents shy of the highest recorded average price of $5.25, set in 2022.

“We saw the state average go up $0.10 just overnight, which is pretty shocking. $0.47 higher than a month ago $1.44 more per gallon than a year ago,” Matthew Conde, the AAA Public & Government Affairs Director, said. “This isn’t a refinery issue. This isn’t a local pipeline issue. This isn’t even a local demand issue. This is a global crude oil supply issue.”

Because of the ongoing conflict with Iran and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, these prices remain high. The cost of crude oil per barrel is roughly $90, which is steadily decreasing. However, local gasoline and diesel prices are not following the same trend.

“The crude oil is down and it’s like at $91 a barrel, the important thing to realize there is that it was at 105 a barrel like ten days ago,” Conde said. “Those higher prices were paid and that’s now starting to work its way through. So there is a delayed effect between what was paid and how it affects us at the pump. And then when you have that more expensive product out there, it needs to cycle through before a cheaper product comes along that fills up those tanks at the gas station and makes things a little cheaper for the rest of us.”

The market is still unpredictable, professionals say they cannot predict the future of these prices. But economists believe these higher prices will have a ripple effect on other everyday expenses.

“Diesel hit an all time high today of more than $6.50 a gallon,” Robert Spendlove, the senior economist with Zions Bank, said. “That can really have a big impact on the prices of end products as well. While gasoline is for the cars we drive and takes more money out of our pockets. That diesel really has an impact on those end products that we get. If they stay higher for longer, the longer they’re at this higher level, those prices are going to work more into groceries or into the other products that we get.”

Spendlove says prices could rise for everyday expenses such as food delivery services, packages, and Amazon deliveries, as well as groceries.

Currently, there is no predicable future for where gas prices go. But as they continue to climb, Spendlove recommends tightening budgets and making do with what you have.

“It’s important to be prepared for the unexpected,” Spendlove said. “You really need to keep that budget and we all have to tighten our belts. We have to figure out ways of doing more with less. And especially as we go into the holiday season.”

As these costs continue to rise, Spendlove says it may be worth enrolling in store and gas station rewards programs to save money.

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News Release

HARRIMAN STATE PARK, Idaho (KIFI)—Idaho foster and kinship families will have another opportunity to connect, explore, and enjoy the outdoors during the next Fostering Family Adventures event Sept. 26 at Harriman State Park on the banks of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River in Island Park. 

The Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, and community partners will host the event from 1-4 p.m. Mountain Time. Activities will include aquatic education, fly-fishing instruction, wildlife and natural history programs, equine activities, Junior Ranger activities, and opportunities to learn about Harriman State Park’s unique ranching history. 

Located along the Henry’s Fork, one of Idaho’s renowned fly-fishing destinations, Harriman State Park provides a fitting setting for families to experience the sport and connect with the river. The event continues DHW’s partnership with The Mayfly Project, a national nonprofit that uses fly fishing to mentor and support children in foster care. Through hands-on instruction and time on the water, youth have an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills, and strengthen connections with caring adults while learning about river ecology and conservation. 

“Idaho’s state parks belong to all Idahoans, and we’re excited to welcome foster and kinship families to Harriman for an afternoon of discovery and fun,” said Parks and Recreation Director Susan Buxton. “These events give families a chance to experience our parks together while introducing children to outdoor activities and the natural and cultural resources that make Idaho special.” 

Fostering Family Adventures events bring foster and kinship families together in relaxed settings where children and caregivers can spend time outdoors, build connections, and make memories together. The Harriman event continues DHW’s work with state and community partners to create opportunities that support families caring for Idaho children. 

“Foster and kinship caregivers provide stability, connection, and support for children at important times in their lives,” said DHW Family and Community Partnerships Administrator Laura Denner. “Fostering Family Adventures is one way we can recognize those families while giving children and caregivers an opportunity to simply spend time together, meet other families, and have fun.” 

Families participating in the Harriman event also will be eligible for discounts at Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg during the weekend. 

Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP at the following EventBrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fostering-family-adventures-harriman-state-park-tickets-1996497308193?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

Fostering Family Adventures is a partnership designed to connect Idaho foster and kinship families with outdoor recreation, educational activities, and one another through events at locations around the state. 

It is a collaborative effort between the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Health and Welfare, with critical financial and logistical support from Idaho Business for the Outdoors. Additional support comes from Capital City Kiwanis and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. 

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Curtis Jackson

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — Rexburg police are warning drivers to slow down and stay alert after seeing several crashes in the past month.

On Monday, police responded to a crash at Second East and Main Street, where there were minor injuries. At the same time, officers responded to a four-vehicle crash at Second West and Fourth South.

Rexburg police say these crashes are an example of a bigger trend happening.

Over the last ten days, officers have responded to 46 crashes, which they say is more than they saw during the entire month of August.

The department says speed and distracted driving are two of the biggest factors. They are urging drivers and pedestrians to slow down, put the phone away, and stay alert.

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Seth Ratliff

RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI) — A 34-year-old Rexburg man was hospitalized after a head-on crash along US-20 north of Rigby last night.

The crash happened just after 10:30 pm around mile marker 342. Idaho State Police say the Rexburg man was driving east in a 2003 Toyota Corolla when he crossed into the westbound lanes and head-on collided with a 2026 Subaru Forester.

Neither the driver nor the passenger of the Subaru was injured, but the Corolla driver was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. His current condition has not been released. Everyone invovled in the crash was wearing their seatbelts.

US-20 was blocked for around two hours while ISP and responding agencies worked to clear the scene. The crash remains under investigation by ISP.

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