Author: KIFI

Ariel Jensen

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The State of Idaho is mourning the loss of a revered public servant and former U.S. Representative, Richard Stallings, who passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, October 26, at the age of 85.

The four-term Democratic congressman was known for his dedication to Idaho’s working families and his commitment to service. He leaves behind a significant legacy in the state’s political history.

“Idaho lost one of its true public servants with the passing of Richard Stallings. He never forgot who he was fighting for, and he never stopped showing up for the people of Idaho,” stated Idaho Democratic Party Chair Lauren Necochea. She praised his approach, noting that he “believed in listening first, leading with integrity, and fighting for the people who too often went unheard in Washington.”

A Life Dedicated to Teaching and Family

Before his political career, Stallings was a beloved educator. Born in Ogden, Utah, on October 7, 1940, he completed his education after serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in New Zealand from 1960–1962. He went on to teach history for well over a decade at Rick’s College in Rexburg, Idaho.

His family remembered him as a man of immense character. His daughter, Sal Duncan, shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, saying: “We will miss him greatly… Father, husband, grandfather, friend. A Doer, public servant, champion of the underserved. A historian, teacher, storyteller, world traveller. His family’s biggest fan (and we’re his). What a lucky daughter to have had such a supportive, encouraging, humorous, safe, and loving Dad. Love you Forever and ever.”

Though he ran several unsuccessful campaigns after leaving Congress, including for the U.S. Senate and later attempts to regain his congressional seat in 1998 and 2014, Necochea notes he continued to serve by meeting and mentoring local representatives and leaders. She says Stallings’ life was defined by a consistent commitment to service, from his classroom in Rexburg to the halls of Washington, D.C.

“Richard reminded us that politics at its best is about people, not power. It is about understanding our neighbors’ struggles and standing up for them,” stated Nechocea. “His legacy endures in the leaders he inspired, the communities he strengthened, and the countless Idahoans who saw in him what public service should look like: humble, principled, and tireless in pursuit of the common good. Our hearts are with his family and all who loved him.”

Funeral arrangements have not yet been publicly announced by Stalling’s family at this time.

“Lifelong Dedication to the People of Idaho” – Governor Little orders flags lowered to half-staff

Governor Brad Little ordered the lowering of U.S. flags and State of Idaho flags immediately until sunrise on Thursday, October 30, to honor the life of former Congressman Richard Stallings.

“Richard Stallings exemplified a lifelong dedication to the people of Idaho, and his enduring legacy of public service will long be remembered,” Governor Little said.

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Seth Ratliff

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The name of the Pocatello man killed in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 15 in Bannock County on Friday has been officially released.

Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner identified the man as 47-year-old Randell Case of Pocatello. His next of kin has been notified. “I want to express my condolences to Randell’s family and friends during this difficult time,” said Coroner Danner. 

According to the Idaho State Police, around 2:00 AM, Case was driving north along I-15 near milepost 70 in a 1997 Mitsubishi 3000 GT when he veered off the roadway, struck a guardrail, and went over it, colliding with a pillar of the Monte Visat overpass.

Case was wearing a seat belt and was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

The incident remains under investigation by the ISP.

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Seth Ratliff

YELLOWSTONE, Montana (KIFI) — All Yellowstone National Park roads south of Mammoth Hot Springs are closed as of last night, Sunday, October 26, due to hazardous winter weather and multiple traffic incidents.

The closure, which began last night, is affecting access to all major destinations south of the Mammoth area. The road between Gardiner, Montana, and Cooke City, Montana, remains open at this time.

The park issued the closure after a challenging day on the roads. On Sunday, October 26, Yellowstone staff responded to more than 30 motor vehicle accidents, stranded vehicles, and slide-offs across various areas of the park.

Park officials say the closure will allow road crews time to safely clear heavy snow and address icy conditions.

Park staff says they will assess road conditions throughout the day to determine when they can safely reopen. Visitors can check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the latest status updates before traveling. For more information, click HERE.

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Danielle Mullenix

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The City of Idaho Falls Street and Sanitation Divisions will begin the annual leaf collection program on Monday, Oct. 27, with collection continuing through Friday, Nov. 21.

City residents are encouraged to rake their leaves—free of branches, sticks, and other debris—into the street along the curb at least one week before their scheduled collection date.

Street Division crews will make one curbside collection to remove and haul away loose leaves. In some neighborhoods, crews may arrive a few days early to remove large piles using heavy equipment before beginning final cleanup with street sweepers.

Collection Schedule

Leaf collection is scheduled to run from Oct. 27 through Nov. 21, though dates may vary slightly depending on weather and volume. Updates and any changes can be found on the Leaf Collection Map & Schedule.

Residents are asked to move all vehicles, trailers, and other items off the street during collection to help crews safely and efficiently remove leaves.

Repeat collections are not guaranteed and will only occur if weather and workload allow.

Bagged Leaf Options

Residents who prefer to bag their leaves, miss their scheduled pickup, or are unable to rake leaves to the curb have two options:

Drop off bagged leaves at the Bonneville County Transfer Station at 2455 Hemmert Ave free of charge.

Schedule one free curbside pickup of bagged leaves, weighing under 50 pounds each, through the Sanitation Division.

Please note: the city does not provide bags for this service.

Tree Trimming Reminder

To help city equipment navigate safely and prevent damage, property owners must keep trees trimmed according to City Code Title 8, Chapter 9:

13 feet above the road surface at the curb

15 feet above the road surface at the centerline

Leaves that are blocked by parked vehicles, low-hanging branches, trash, or other debris cannot be collected.

Contact Information

Street Division: (208) 612-8490

Sanitation Division (to schedule bagged leaf pickup): (208) 612-8491

Leaf Collection Map & Schedule

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Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Hundreds of people gathered for the annual Real Heroes Trunk or Treat in downtown Idaho Falls this weekend. First responders and local businesses were excited to pass out candy for the kids and families.

“We have several different police vehicles, including a vehicle that we put our drones in and use for some of those drone operations,” said Idaho Falls Police Public Information Officer, Jessica Clements. “Lots of patrol vehicles, of course. We have dispatch here, we have code enforcement, and we have animal control.”

Clements says this is one of IFPD’s favorite annual events, especially since a lot of people always attend. This year, hundreds of people were lined up around the Bonneville County Courthouse for their chance to get candy from the first responders. Some people even got in line two hours before the event started.

This event gave people an extra chance to wear their halloween costumes this year. Costumes ranged from K-Pop Demon Hunters to Demon Slayers, from Minions to villains.

With Halloween coming up, police remind kids and families to be careful when they go trick-or-treating on the special night.

“Make sure to talk to kids about crossing the street safely. Don’t just duck out between cars and in neighborhood areas,” Clements said. “Make sure that they’re looking for crosswalks [and] well-lit areas.”

Clements says you plan to wear dark-colored costumes, also wear something reflective so you’re easier to see in the dark. The main thing to remember when trick-or-treating this Halloween is to stay safe and have fun.

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News Team

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The Bengals came out in full force along with community members from both Pocatello and Idaho Falls to enjoy the annual homecoming parade.

People from Idaho Falls and beyond traveled for today’s festivities and look forward to it every year. People lined the streets of Pocatello from Center Street all the way to the parade’s finish at Reed Gym on the ISU campus. They came to watch the multitude of floats, fancy cars and dance groups. Some kids even wore their halloween costumes to catch the flying candy. 

ISU student ambassador Karsen Jex said “I think to be in it as a student and as a student ambassador, it’s just really cool to see the community come out, rally, have a good time, support our university, and then ultimately cheer on our football team.”

Nampa natives Stacie and Ryan Robertson said this was their first year at the homecoming parade and they were thrilled with the performances by dance and cheer teams from the area.

The parade marks the end of ISU’s homecoming week events, ahead of the football team’s homecoming game versus Northern Arizona University on Saturday, October 25th. Other events this week included a lip-sync battle and the iconic Homecoming Bonfire.

The community also rallies around their university during the pre-game tailgate outside the ICCU Dome. After a week of fun and festivities in Pocatello, the parade sticks out as one of the most exciting events.

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Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Saturday, October 25, was the last day of the Idaho Falls Farmers Market this year. Vendors and customers came together to make the most of the market’s final day.

People sold things from food, to ceramics, to jewelry. Some of the vendors have been part of the market for years, while this was the first year for some of them.

“I’m a retired teacher. I wanted to do something after five years of being retired. So this is that. And I love flowering, gardening,” said Debbie Eytcheson, Owner of Lady Hollyhock LLC.

Several vendors say their favorite part about being in the farmers market is getting to know the other vendors. They love seeing how creative everyone gets with their products, like making cast iron flowers, personalized cutting boards, and special leather-bound book covers.

“With our books, I like to take favorites and classics and hand tool. Many of them I like to accent with scrap buffalo leather. I love using scrap and re-purposing,” said Millissa Garnette, Owner of Garnette Leather Company.

Even though the farmers market is over for 2025, there will be more chances for people to see their favorite vendors again soon. The indoor winter market will be at the Snake River Convention Center starting Saturday, November 1.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Idaho Falls Mayoral candidate Jeff Alldridge is publicly addressing what he calls “wild rumors” following a controversial moment at a recent mayoral forum.

Alldridge, the sole mayoral hopeful in the race who is not a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was asked a pointed religious question. The incident has since sparked online rumors about his thoughts on “others’ beliefs…and intentions as Mayor” and debate surrounding religious bias in local politics.

The incident occurred during a mayoral forum and debate hosted by East Idaho News, moderated by reporter Nate Eaton. The questions were sourced from the audience and relayed by reporter Nate Eaton; however, Alldridge was the only candidate asked a pointed religious question: “Are Mormons Christians?”

The confrontation took place around the 36:52-minute mark of East Idaho News’ livestream. To view the video, click HERE.

“I heard Jeff Alldridge removed his religious affiliation from his website, and does not believe Latter-day Saints are Christians. Is this true?” relayed Eaton.

“Uh… I never had my faith on my website. But I am Christian. And I’ll leave it up to Latter-day Saints, if they believe that they’re Christian, then they’re Christian,” answered a clearly uncomfortable Alldridge.

“Do you believe they are?” drilled Eaton.

“I don’t know,” answered Alldrigde.

Alldridge’s Response and Clarification

Alldridge expressed his surprise at the question, telling Local News 8 he didn’t see how it was relevant. He later issued a public statement on Facebook to clarify his response, which he admitted was “truthful” but vague.

He elaborated on his reasoning in the post, saying, “I cannot make a blanket judgment over an entire group of people. That would be foolish. Similarly, the right to judge who is and isn’t saved is reserved for God alone. My opinion is irrelevant.”

Alldridge continued that although he is not a member of the LDS faith, which makes up an estimated 50%-60% of the Idaho Falls population, he loves and respects “each and every one” of his many friends, neighbors, and supporters who are.

“Freedom of religion is the very first right listed and protected in our Bill of Rights. It is the right to choose what you believe, and that right shall not be infringed upon…As Mayor, I will always work to protect others’ freedom to worship as much as I work to protect my own,” concluded Alldridge.

Mayoral Candidates Respond

The other two candidates in the race, Lisa Burtenshaw and Christian Ashcraft, both shared statements with Local News 8. Ms. Burtenshaw said the following:

“I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We are a Christian faith. I have many friends and family who belong to other faiths. I respect their beliefs and know our differences make us stronger. Campaigning is difficult. The questions we get from the community are often tough. But, I have appreciated all the forums and the chance to get out into the community, and learn from others, and hear different perspectives. Building that mutual respect and understanding is the key to creating a strong community. And, it is how I strive to serve — listening to different perspectives, building bridges and working together to solve problems.”

Christian Ashcraft provided a similar statement.

“Running for public office means accepting that people will ask personal questions—about faith, values, politics, and convictions. That’s part of the public’s right to understand who their leaders are. Questions like these can reveal character or distract from the real issue; who’s ready to lead with fairness and respect for all. What matters most is whether each candidate can rise above personal differences and serve the entire community with empathy and integrity.”

East Idaho News Response

Local News 8 reached out to East Idaho News editor Nate Sunderland for clarification. He claims the question was chosen from over 200 the outlet received in preparation for the forum.

“One question dealt with a claim that Mr. Alldridge had removed his religious affiliation from his website, and that he had viewpoints that suggested the Mormons were not members of the Christian faith,” Sunderland said in a statement to Local News 8. “Given the frequency of the question, it was incorporated into the debate.”

Alldridge told Local News 8 the claim that he removed his religious affiliation from his website is not true, as he never included any information about his religious affiliation on his website in the first place. He also says he has proof, as he has been archiving the website.

Historical and Current Context

The question draws back to a theological debate that has persisted since the inception of the LDS Church. While the church officially identifies as Christian and centers its doctrine on Jesus Christ, some other Christian denominations historically have not recognized it as such, often citing differences in scripture and core beliefs. The question also came on the heels of a violent attack on an LDS branch in Michigan, which had brought the issue of acceptance within the Christian community to the forefront of online debate.

Article VI, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution forbids any kind of religious test for public office. It states: “No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.”

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News Team

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — A large group of Rexburg Police officers and EMS were called to the scene of an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound Friday afternoon. The incident took place at an apartment complex on West 7th South between Pioneer Rd and Casper Ave.

Rexburg Police later addressed the community via social media, assuring residents that despite the significant initial response, there is no ongoing threat to the public. No further details about the victim’s condition or the circumstances of the shooting have been released.

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Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Governor Brad Little’s 3% budget cuts are affecting several colleges and universities across the Gem State, including College of Eastern Idaho.

CEI says they have to cut over $500,000 from their 2026-27 budget. They pointed out, while this amount of cuts isn’t as high as some universities, it still puts a pause on many of their projects like expanding the college’s classes and buildings to keep up with its large growth over the last few years.

“Which is very difficult because we have students that want to be here,” said CEI’s Chief Financial Officer, Penny Lyon. “We have employers that want to hire them. So where do you cut? It’s tough.”

Lyon says CEI was planning to hire more instructors to support its rapid growth, but that will have to be put on hold. The college will likely need to also cap some of its enrollment due to the budget cuts.

“What that will mean is the pace that we deliver students is going slow, which is unfortunate,” Lyon said. “It’s unfortunate for the students that want to be here and can’t get into those classes. It’s unfortunate for the employers that are ready to hire students that are coming out because they won’t have enough.”

Lyon says these budget cuts are frustrating, but CEI will follow them and do the best they can so they can deliver quality education to its students and quality graduates to employers. 

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