Author: KIFI

News Team

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — Former Democratic legislator Todd Achilles has officially entered the 2026 race for the U.S. Senate as an Independent. Achilles, who recently resigned his seat in the Idaho House of Representatives to focus on the campaign, aims to unseat three-term incumbent Republican Senator Jim Risch.

From the Statehouse to the National Stage

An Oregon native, Achilles served for over 20 years in the U.S. Army, both as an active-duty tank commander and in the tech sector. He later shifted to local politics.

After being appointed by Governor Brad Little to fill a vacancy in District 16B, Achilles successfully defended the seat in the 2024 election. However, his tenure in the Idaho House was brief; he resigned this July to launch his federal bid. Governor Little has since appointed Boise attorney Annie Henderson Haws to serve the remainder of his term.

Breaking the Two-Party Deadlock

Speaking to reporters at Local News 8, Achilles said his candidacy was a necessary response to a “fundamentally broken” Congress. He argued that the two-party system has failed the nation. Emphasizing his roots and relationships among both parties, Achilles noted his reputation for putting policy before party.

“I had a reputation to be one of the most bipartisan in the Idaho House, and you really need to get past the politics and just work with colleagues on the policy,” explained Achilles. “There’s tremendous corruption in both parties, and… we’ve got to get Congress functioning again and working in a bipartisan way on solving these hard problems.”

Independent vs. Incumbent

Achilles’ opponent, Senator Jim Risch, has held the seat since 2009. Risch announced his re-election bid in late April, backed by an enthusiastic endorsement from President Donald Trump.

“It’s a great time for America,” Risch stated in a press release. “I want to continue working with President Trump to get the government out of the way.”

Historically, Republicans have swept every U.S. Senate race in Idaho since 1978. The last Democrat to hold the office was Frank Church nearly 50 years ago, and an Independent candidate has never represented the Gem State in the U.S. Senate, making Achilles’ challenge of Idaho’s established majority unprecedented.

Road to the Ballot Box

Under Idaho law, Achilles must collect a requisite number of signatures to qualify for the November 2026 ballot. While his campaign has already surpassed the 1,000-signature minimum, Achilles says his strategy is about more than just the paperwork; he is focused on building a presence in all 44 Idaho counties.

For more information on the Achilles campaign and his policy platform, click HERE.

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News Team

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — A 29-year-old Arizona man is in custody following a multi-state investigation into the inappropriate relationships with minors, including Idahoans, online.

Ahren Neil Heineman was arrested on Dec. 23 by Pinal County Sheriff’s deputies in Arizona City. The arrest was the result of a month-long collaborative effort between Arizona authorities and detectives from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in Idaho.

The investigation began in late November after JCSO began an investigation into Heineman’s alleged inappropriate communications with children.

In a statement, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office extended its gratitude to the Pinal County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Division and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for their help in the case.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Thousands of people lose their lives every year to impaired driving, a preventable crisis that has prompted a renewed safety push from AAA and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). 

With New Year’s Eve right around the corner, Public Relations Director for AAA Idaho Matthew Conde announced a partnership with MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) to increase public awareness and reduce fatalities on the roads. 

Conde emphasized that while 93% of Americans acknowledge that driving while impaired is  dangerous, 7% admitted to having done so in the past 30 days, revealing a gap between public understanding and personal action.

“In this age of technology, we’re asking people, please, use the ride hailing app so you can get a ride from somewhere.” said Conde “If you’re hosting a party, please make sure you have a plan for everybody to either get safely home or have a place to stay overnight. The last thing we want to do is to have a situation where someone feels they have to get behind the wheel for any reason, when they might be impaired.”

This renewed focus comes as Idaho itself continues to see significant impact from impaired driving; in the last year alone, the state recorded 1,700 impaired driving crashes and 86 deaths, figures Conde called a tragedy happening in every community. He praised MADD volunteers as powerful storytellers, stemming from the stories being told by people who have been personally affected.

“If you are hosting those parties, you might start with alcohol, and then you might work your way down towards sodas and lots of snacks and things at the end of the party, so that you’re kind of helping people kind of wind it down so that if they do hit the road, they are sober and able to go home safely.” said Conde. 

The average drunk driver operates a vehicle under the influence 80 times before being apprehended for their first DUI, the issue often stems from a deeper, difficult relationship with alcohol for some individuals. 

MADD and AAA stress the importance of improved technology for detecting alcohol on a person before they can start their vehicle. Until then they will continue to spread awareness until drunk driving accidents become only a memory.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — It’s the “most wonderful time of the year,” especially for auto dealers, as exciting commercials featuring new cars with giant bows grace our TV screens, flashing the best deals of the year.

Matthew Conde, Public Affairs Director at AAA Idaho, offers car buying tips as consumers head into the new year.

Conde recommends starting early and taking your time. Getting pre-approval from your financial institution will help you budget effectively.

“There’s depreciation that kicks in the minute you leave the lot. It’s not worth what you paid for it. And that’s just something that’s typical,” Conde said.

Considering the total cost of ownership is another important factor. Depreciation, fuel requirements, higher costs for maintenance and higher insurance premiums should all be factored into the process.

If you plan to take out a car loan, be prepared for mandatory comprehensive insurance. This coverage is typically required by lenders to protect their investment in case the vehicle is damaged. Doing this homework on financing charges and insurance well in advance can save both time and money.

“Keep your options open,” Conde stressed. “Have a few options in mind, rather than having the one and only model, a year and color. Otherwise now you’re sort of captive to what the price is for that vehicle.”

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Danielle Mullenix

Merry Christmas!

The air might feel different this year, as many stepped outside their front doors to discover freshly green grass and temperatures far above freezing this Christmas morning. Navigating the roads in the Snake River Plain this holiday season has been quite smooth, thanks to mild temperatures that have brought rain to many parts of the region. Today, you can expect longer spells of dry weather, interspersed with a few rain showers.

As we approach “Part 2” of the storm system on Friday and Saturday, temperatures will drop, and snow levels will decrease. This means areas such as Stanley, Ketchum, Island Park, and Driggs, along with all our mountain passes, will begin to see snowfall, which could lead to slick travel conditions.

A winter storm warning and advisory was announced this afternoon by the National Weather Service for the Centennial Mountains and Island Park area. Heavy snow is expected, with total snow accumulations ranging from 5 to 10 inches and winds gusting up to 35 mph. This winter weather advisory is in effect from 2 AM on Friday until 5 AM MST on Saturday. Residents should prepare for slippery roads, as hazardous conditions could significantly affect the Friday morning and evening commutes.

Some light snow is anticipated to reach all valley floors, including the Snake Plain and eastern Magic Valley; however, as indicated in the accompanying graphic, accumulation in these areas is expected to be minimal. Please exercise extra caution when planning travel across the region on Friday and Saturday after Christmas, and check the latest forecasts and road conditions.

Weather conditions are predicted to improve by the weekend, with Sunday expected to bring a pause from rain and snow. While temperatures will gradually cool, the dry weather will provide a much-needed break after several days of unsettled and wet holiday conditions.

Enjoy your holiday, and stay warm!

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — “During the holidays, we do typically see an influx in adoptions, especially before Christmas. People are wanting to get Christmas pets for their families or friends.” said Danyelle Harker, Lead Animal Control Officer at Idaho Falls Animal Control.

Three area shelters agree that “buyer’s remorse” often stems from a lack of research into a pet’s needs before adoption. shelters note that the real issue occurs in the weeks following when pets are surrendered due to unforeseen challenges.

“This is a big commitment. They live 10 to 15 years plus, so you want to make sure that you’re able to care for the pet for the duration of its lifetime,” Harker noted.

The common theme among shelter staff to combat these returns is thorough preparation and research.

“Make sure you  bring your children, your other dogs with you to make sure it will be a good fit for the family dynamics. And of course, take the advice of your adoption counselor at the shelter, who is going to give you great advice on what what pets are going to work best for you.” said Executive Director, Michelle Ziel-Dingman

While young kittens and puppies are often quickly adopted—sometimes within hours of becoming available—shelters report that older animals, like senior cats, are frequently overlooked and wait for months to find a home.

Adopting a pet during the holidays can be a wonderful gift, but only if the family is fully prepared for the dedication and care required long after the ornaments are packed away.

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Stephanie Lucas

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (KIFI) – President Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is currently hospitalized for treatment related to ongoing health complications, according to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“He is receiving expert care and is with loved ones during this Christmas holiday,” the Church said in a statement.

The Church also said President Holland and his family have expressed gratitude for the many prayers offered on his behalf, and extend greetings of faith and peace during this Christmas season.

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Danielle Mullenix

An unsettled wet weather pattern is hovering above the Eastern Idaho and Western Wyoming region this Christmas Eve, with warmer temperatures continuing to create an irregular holiday atmosphere. Expect continued rain showers moving through the valley, with a wintry mix turning to snow in the highland areas this evening.

Another weather front is approaching, bringing rain showers by 3 PM, and may affect Santa’s travel schedule later on this evening. Winter weather advisories are in effect for Teton and Lincoln counties until 5 PM on Christmas Day. Sun Valley is under a winter storm warning, with forecasts predicting up to a foot of snow over the next few days.

Furthermore, a Wind Advisory is in place for the lower Snake River Plain, Magic Valley, and Treasure Valley, where gusts have already exceeded 45 mph in the southern Snake River Plain. Blackfoot and Pocatello recorded wind gusts nearing 50 mph this morning. Today’s high temperatures are expected to reach the 50s, making it the warmest day in this stretch.

Snowfall is not anticipated until late tomorrow evening, Christmas night, and continuing into Friday morning. We can expect light, intermittent snowfall in Idaho Falls, with approximately 1 to 2 inches in Rexburg. Jackson could receive 2 to 4+ inches of snow. Following the second front on Friday, scattered snow showers are likely as colder air moves in, with potential accumulations in the eastern highlands and southeast mountains ranging from 4 to 8 inches.

Furthermore, a foot of snow may fall in Island Park and West Yellowstone, albeit just after the Christmas holiday. Tomorrow will remain relatively mild, with temperatures in the 50s and brisk winds gusting to over 30 mph.

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CNN Newsource

Originally Published: 23 DEC 25 14:53 ET

Updated: 24 DEC 25 12:49 ET

By Josh Campbell, Michelle Watson, CNN

(CNN) — The multi-state hunt for Melodee Buzzard, a missing 9-year-old California girl, came to a close when her remains were discovered in a rural area of southern Utah, authorities announced Tuesday.

Members of the sheriff’s office and the FBI arrested Ashlee Buzzard, Melodee’s mother, Tuesday morning on a charge of first-degree murder, Santa Barbara County Sheriff-Coroner Bill Brown said Tuesday.

Authorities say she deliberately tried to hide her steps, such as backing a rental car into gas stations in an attempt to avoid detection by their surveillance cameras.

The body was discovered by a couple who were taking photos in a remote part of Wayne County, Utah, Brown said. Wayne County authorities say the body was near a road with pieces of evidence nearby.

The remains couldn’t be immediately identified, he said, but “it was apparent that the decedent was a female who had died from gunshot wounds to the head.”

But DNA analysis found it was a familial DNA match to Melodee’s mother, he added.

It took less than 24 hours for a Utah crime lab to connect the body to Melodee’s disappearance, Wayne County Sheriff Micah Gulley said.

“We have recovered a significant amount of evidence that clearly indicates that this heinous crime was committed by Ashlee Buzzard, Melodee’s mother, and the very person upon who she relied upon and trusted the most in this world,” Brown said at a news conference.

CNN is attempting to determine whether Buzzard has an attorney.

Investigators do not have the murder weapon and have not established a motive, adding Buzzard is “uncooperative,” authorities said Tuesday.

Melodee’s paternal grandmother, Lilly Denes, told CNN affiliates KEYT and KSBY earlier Tuesday the sheriff’s office informed her Melodee’s body had been discovered.

“It’s really sad for us, especially that tomorrow is Christmas Eve and, you know, I have the rest of the grandkids coming home,” Denes told KEYT Tuesday.

She said she was the first person notified by police that her “baby was gone.”

“She’s over there with her dad now,” Denes said. Melodee’s father, who is Denes’ son, died in a motorcycle crash when Melodee was an infant.

CNN has reached out to Denes for comment.

Brown went through a timeline Tuesday that explained what led investigators to Melodee’s body.

Melodee was last seen October 9

Buzzard went on a road trip with her 9-year-old daughter on October 7, when surveillance footage captured the girl at a local car rental agency dressed in what seemed to be a disguise, authorities said.

Melodee was wearing a hoodie pulled over her head and “what appears to be a wig that is darker and straighter than her natural hair,” the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office previously said. “Investigators believe the wig may have been used to alter her appearance.”

The rental car traveled through Nebraska, Utah, Arizona, Nevada and Kansas before returning home to Lompoc, about 55 miles northwest of Santa Barbara, authorities said.

At some point along the trip, Buzzard switched the license plates on the vehicle she had rented to a New York plate, Brown said Tuesday.

“Investigators have confirmed that Ashlee was seen returning to her Lompoc residence on October 10, driving the same rental vehicle she departed with on October 7 – but Melodee was not in the car,” the sheriff’s office previously said.

The young girl was last seen on video surveillance with her mother on the Colorado side of the Colorado-Utah border on October 9, according to Brown.

Detectives, Brown said, now believe Melodee was killed shortly after that stop.

Melodee was reported missing days later, on October 14 – not by a family member, but by a school administrator concerned about her long absence.

The next day, October 15, detectives served a search warrant at Buzzard’s home, according to a release from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.

On October 30, sheriff’s detectives, along with the FBI Evidence Response Team, served follow-up search warrants at Buzzard’s home as well as for a storage locker and car she had recently rented, investigators said.

An expended cartridge case was recovered during the search of the home, Brown said, and during the search of the rental car a live round of similar ammunition was located, Brown said.

On December 17, the ATF found that cartridge cases from the Utah crime scene linked to a single cartridge case found at the Buzzard residence, authorities said.

“Cold-blooded and criminally sophisticated premeditation and heartlessness … went into planning” the crime, Brown said.

The “ruthlessness” that went into committing it, he added, was shocking.

“It’s unbelievable just to know that a mother could do this to their child,” Melodee’s aunt Lizabeth Meza said to CNN affiliate KSBY.

This story has been updated with additional information.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2025 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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Par Kermani

AMMON – After several months missing, Tank the dog has been safely reunited with his owner, thanks to efforts by the community, Snake River Animal Shelter, and BCSO Animal Control Officer Bolleurs. The reunion, just days before Christmas, is being hailed as a holiday miracle.

“It is a Christmas miracle,” said Michelle Ziel-Dingman, executive director of the community organization involved in the search. “A dog has been reunited with its owner with the help of the community.”

Tank had been missing for almost three months when his owner first put out a desperate plea for help on Facebook. The community immediately rallied, transforming the search into a full-scale operation.

The breakthrough came when residents began spotting Tank on their home security cameras. These sightings provided crucial information, helping searchers narrow down the dog’s location.

It all went when a team of community members set up a specialized trap and were finally able to safely capture Tank. After months apart, Tank now gets to spend the holiday with his loving owner.

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