Category: kesq-local-news

City News Service

Update 11/26/25

The coroner’s office identified the person killed in the crash as Steve Law, 68, of Los Angeles.

Original Report 11/17/25

BEAUMONT, Calif. (KESQ) – A motorist was killed today and his passenger injured when a tire dislodged from a passing vehicle on the Moreno Valley (60) Freeway just west of Beaumont and flew into the victim’s windshield, causing him to lose control and crash.

The fatality occurred just after 11 a.m. Monday on the westbound 60 near the exit for Jack Rabbit Trail, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Officer Ricardo Palomera said a 2011 BMW 328i driven by 54-year-old Philip Neil McKeehan of Riverside was traveling at an unconfirmed speed eastbound when his left rear tire “became detached and airborne.”   

“The tire went over the center divider wall and onto Route 60 westbound,” Palomera said.  

A 68-year-old Los Angeles man was driving his 2017 Toyota Sienna in the No. 1 westbound lane when the “BMW’s tire hit the front windshield and roof of the Toyota,” the CHP spokesman said.

The minivan slammed into the center divider then went off the freeway and plowed into an embankment, according to Palomera.   

The BMW came to a stop on the freeway. No other vehicles were involved.   

Riverside County Fire Department paramedics pronounced the Toyota driver, whose identity was not immediately released, dead at the scene. His passenger, identified only as a 54-year-old Santa Ana woman, suffered minor injuries and was taken to Riverside University Medical Center in Moreno Valley for treatment.  

McKeehan was not hurt.   

The crash led to lane closures that were lifted by early afternoon.   

Anyone with information was asked to contact the CHP San Gorgonio office at 951-846-5300.

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Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Plaza Theatre announced Palm Springs Icons, a grand opening celebration honoring the legacy, artistry, and enduring cultural impact of eight extraordinary figures whose work has shaped Palm Springs and beyond.

The one-night-only event takes place Monday, December 8, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., and proceeds will benefit Arts Teach Kids, supporting arts access and education for young people across the Coachella Valley. 

Created exclusively for The Plaza by Scott Coulter’s Spot-On Entertainment and produced in partnership with the Plaza Theatre Foundation, Palm Springs Icons will pay tribute to a remarkable inaugural class of honorees: Lucie Arnaz, Michael Childers, Paul Feig, Michael Holmes (and The Purple Room), Larry Luckinbill, Trixie Mattel, Brian Ray, and Frank Sinatra. 

Designed as a signature annual event, Palm Springs Icons honors individuals whose artistry, innovation, and influence have become woven into the cultural fabric of Palm Springs. This intimate, elegant evening will blend storytelling, video, live musical moments, and special guest appearances, celebrating each honoree’s unique contribution to the city’s identity and creative history. 

The event will be hosted by the renowned Billy Stritch, the acclaimed composer, arranger, vocalist, and jazz pianist. 

Tickets are on sale now and available via palmspringsplazatheatre.com.. Guests are encouraged to secure seats early for this special inaugural event.  

“Palm Springs Icons is exactly the kind of celebration The Plaza Theatre was restored to host,” said John Bolton, SVP, Oak View Group and GM, Plaza Theatre. “This inaugural class represents the heart and soul of Palm Springs: the artists, innovators, storytellers, and trailblazers whose impact reaches far beyond our city. We’re honored to welcome them and thrilled to share an unforgettable evening with our community.” 

2025 HONOREES 

LUCIE ARNAZ 

Lucie Arnaz is an Emmy-winning producer, celebrated actress, and acclaimed musical theatre performer whose career spans television, film, and Broadway. Known for her breakthrough role on Here’s Lucy, she went on to star in Broadway hits including They’re Playing Our Song, Pippin, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, as well as the Golden Globe–nominated film The Jazz Singer. She continues to champion her family’s legacy while building her own remarkable artistic imprint. 

MICHAEL CHILDERS 

Michael Childers is an internationally recognized photographer and producer whose work spans fashion, theatre, film, and fine arts. A founding photographer for Interview and After Dark, he has created more than 200 magazine covers and 150 album covers, with his photography held in prestigious collections including the National Portrait Gallery, Palm Springs Art Museum, LACMA, and the Victoria & Albert Museum. His celebrated retrospectives, award-winning documentary work, and decades-long artistic contributions make him a pillar of Palm Springs cultural history. 

PAUL FEIG 

Paul Feig is a DGA-winning and Emmy-nominated filmmaker, writer, producer, author, and founder of Feigco Entertainment. He most recently directed and produced Another Simple Favor, starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively, which premiered as the opening night film at SXSW Austin and became the #1 film on Prime Video for several weeks. Up next, he directed and produced The Housemaid, based on the bestselling novel by Freida McFadden and starring Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, and Michele Morrone, set for theatrical release by Lionsgate on Christmas Day. His films — including Bridesmaids, Last Christmas, The Heat, Ghostbusters, Spy, and A Simple Favor — have collectively grossed more than one billion dollars worldwide. Feig is also the creator of the award-winning gin brand Artingstall’s and the author of the cocktail book Cocktail Time! published by William Morrow. 

MICHAEL HOLMES & THE PURPLE ROOM 

A beloved entertainer and impresario, Michael Holmes has revitalized the legendary Purple Room, the storied supper club once frequented by the Rat Pack. Known for his long-running hit The Judy Show, Holmes blends musical mastery, comedic brilliance, and improv flair, channeling icons from Judy Garland to Bette Davis. Under his leadership, The Purple Room has become a premier destination for live music, classic Palm Springs glamour, and unforgettable nights out. 

LARRY LUCKINBILL 

Tony-nominee and Emmy winner Larry Luckinbill is a distinguished actor, playwright, and director whose career includes acclaimed performances on Broadway, in film, and on television. Known for his one-man shows portraying figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Clarence Darrow, and Lyndon B. Johnson, as well as his memorable role as Sybok in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier. Also a celebrated journalist, Luckinbill has contributed to The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, American Theatre Magazine and Esquire. 

TRIXIE MATTEL 

Trixie Mattel is a globally recognized drag performer, singer-songwriter, comedian, entrepreneur, and “Skinny Legend.” Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 3, Trixie is a chart-topping recording artist, successful touring act, bestselling author, cosmetics mogul, and half of the massively popular Trixie & Katya comedy duo. Her cultural influence, humor, and artistic reinvention have made her a modern entertainment icon. 

BRIAN RAY 

Brian Ray is an acclaimed guitarist, bassist, singer-songwriter, and musical director who has been a key member of Paul McCartney’s touring band since 2002. Before joining McCartney, he spent 14 years performing with Etta James and went on to collaborate with artists such as Smokey Robinson and Shakira. A solo artist and member of the rock band The Bayonets, Ray also serves on the Board of the Plaza Theatre Foundation. 

FRANK SINATRA 

An undeniable Palm Springs legend, Frank Sinatra’s contributions to music, film, and local community life remain a defining part of the city’s heritage. His presence and legacy continue to shape the cultural identity of Palm Springs, making him an essential inclusion in the inaugural class of Palm Springs Icons. 

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Luis Avila

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – A major route in and out of Palm Springs is shut down this week. North Indian Canyon Drive is closed between Palm Springs Station Road and Garnet Avenue, a closure that began early Monday at 2 a.m. and will continue through Thursday.

For many residents, including Blanca Torres, the closure has created longer and more complicated commutes.

“Right now, it makes it very complicated for us. We need to go around many times to go to work and other places.”

Blanca Torres, North Palm Springs Residents

The project behind the closure will widen the bridge on Indian Canyon Drive and is part of a larger effort to improve the reliability of the corridor, which is frequently shut down due to flooding or blowing sand.

Joel Montalvo, Palm Springs City Engineer, says while the short-term inconvenience is frustrating, the work is necessary.

“We want folks to understand and hopefully be patient with us. These closures are required. We know that folks get really upset when they have to go around. It takes a little bit longer.”

Joel Montalvo, Palm Springs City Engineer

Dirk Voss, Desert Hot Springs Council member, emphasizes that the project has significant implications for his community, where most residents depend on the route daily.

“Seventy percent of our workforce leaves the city and goes into Palm Springs or south of the freeway. The fewer times we have to close Indian Canyon because of sand, wind, etc., the better.”

Dirk Voss, Desert Hot Springs Council Member

He noted that limited access points into Desert Hot Springs make reliability on Indian Canyon a matter of both convenience and safety.

Despite weekend rainfall, the city confirms the weather did not affect the project’s timeline.

Drivers traveling between Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs are urged to use alternate routes until the project wraps up later this week.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Gavin Nguyen

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Cathedral City announced Monday morning that Councilmember Mark Carnevale died Sunday.

“The City of Cathedral City is deeply saddened by the passing of Councilmember Mark Carnevale on November 16, 2025. Councilmember Carnevale was a dedicated public servant, beloved family man, and pillar of the Cathedral City community.”

– Cathedral City news release

Carnevale represented District 3 and was first elected to the council in 2014. He served as the city’s mayor twice, in 2019-20, following the passing of Mayor Gregory S. Pettis, and again in 2023-24.

In a release from the city, Mayor Nancy Ross said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend, Mark Carnevale. He contributed so much to our community and was a tireless advocate for Cathedral City. He will be greatly missed.”

City officials said Carnevale was instrumental in the revitalization of Cathedral City’s Downtown Arts & Entertainment District, championing projects including the Cathedral City Community Amphitheater, the Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City, and supporting significant housing and economic development throughout the city. He was a passionate advocate for smart growth and believed deeply in Cathedral City’s potential.

“Mark was a steadfast leader who deeply cared about the people of Cathedral City,” said Interim City Manager Anne Ambrose. “His commitment to his constituents and his collaborative approach to governance made him an invaluable member of our team. Our hearts go out to Rhonda and his entire family during this incredibly difficult time.”

He has been a Coachella Valley resident since 1969. He, along with his wife Rhonda, owned and operated Nicolino’s Italian Restaurant in Cathedral City, which opened in 1985 and closed a few years ago. He had been operating Nick’s Bistro in recent years.

Carnevale is survived by his wife Rhonda; children Karrie and Nick; five grandchildren; and numerous extended family members. Services are pending.

In honor of Carnevale’s service to Cathedral City, flags at City facilities will be lowered to half-staff.

City officials said the city council has 60 days from Nov. 16 to address the vacancy for Carnenale’s District 3 seat.

This is a developing story. Stay with News Channel 3 for the latest.

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Timothy Foster

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) — Heavy rainfall across the Coachella Valley has caused flooding, mudslides, and road closures, prompting safety warnings from law enforcement and emergency officials.

In Palm Springs, major routes such as Indian Canyon Drive, Gene Autry Trail, and parts of Vista Chino often shut down when water collects at the washes. Drivers are commonly detoured to Ramon Road, Dinah Shore Drive, and Highway 111, which remain more accessible during storms.

Flooding and mudslides have also created problems in Cathedral City, especially near Varner Road and Date Palm Drive, where cars have become stuck in thick mud during periods of heavy rain. Crews have used tow equipment and bulldozers to remove trapped vehicles.

Maria Juarez of Desert Hot Springs said her family member became stranded in flood water near Thousand Palms and was unable to move the car. She explained that Highway Patrol stopped incoming traffic for safety. She added that her family relies on GPS for alternate routes and keeps sandbags available during storms.

In Palm Desert, residents have reported flooding inside garages and around homes. Resident Kimberly Valentine said her garage took on water and required several hours of cleanup to move belongings to higher ground.

Some families chose to stay indoors altogether during the rain. Palm Desert resident Marcus Morgan said he avoids adding to traffic during storms and has seen drivers attempt to cross flooded washes with dangerous results. His wife, Diana Morgan, said staying home is often the safest choice and helps prevent becoming trapped in rising water.

Local agencies continue to urge drivers to avoid entering flooded roadways. Emergency crews handle multiple rescues each rainy season when vehicles become stuck in water or mud.

Several cities, including Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs, provide sandbags for residents preparing their homes for additional storms. Residents who recently experienced flooding say they plan to make use of them if more rain arrives.

Officials encourage the public to monitor changing road conditions, as closures can shift quickly when rain moves through the valley.

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Athena Jreij

BANNING, Calif. (KESQ) — The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the death of an inmate at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning.

Deputies say on Thursday morning they found 61-year-old Michael Dupas of Perris, having a medical emergency in the transportation area of the correctional facility.

Dupas was taken to a local hospital where his health continued to decline. He was pronounced dead the next day.

A cause of death has not been determined and the investigation remains ongoing.

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Shay Lawson

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – The AMVETS ONE suicide-prevention bus rolled into Indio on Sunday.

The event drawing veterans, families and community members to American Legion Post 739 for a program aimed at reducing veteran suicides — highlighting the urgent need for mental-health support and continued outreach.

According to AMVETS, an estimated 17.6 veterans die by suicide every day nationwide — a number the organization hopes to drive down through its traveling education and resource program.

Speakers shared information on warning signs, available resources and ways the public can support veterans in crisis.

AMVETS Post 66 presented a $500 donation to support the AMVETS ONE program.

The event was free and open to the public, attracting local leaders, service members and advocates.

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Isaiah Mora

Update 11/17/25

Gene Autry reopened Monday morning. There is no word on when Indian Canyon could be reopened.

Original Report 11/16/25

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – On Sunday morning, Vista Chino reopened at the wash after it was closed due to flooding following Saturday’s heavy rainfall.

The city of Palm Springs is also warning North Indian Canyon Drive and Gene Autry Trail are both closed at the wash due to flooding.

Stay with News Channel 3 to learn when these roads will open back up.

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Kendall Flynn

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors group held a summit Saturday, celebrating the one-year anniversary of reaching a historic $5.9 million settlement with the City of Palm Springs.

People who call themselves the survivors and descendants of Section 14 gathered at the Church of St. Paul in the Desert in Palm Springs for the summit titled “Reflect, Re-imagine and Rebuild.” Speakers from the Section 14 Board, Survivors group, civil rights legal council and other experts discussed how the Section 14 settlement has impacted other cities and what change they’re looking for in the future.

Many speakers said the settlement is on the end, it is the beginning of change in Palm Springs, especially as they look toward numerous reparative implementations in the city.

The settlement will provide direct compensation to the community impacted, and includes a $20 million allocation for affordable housing from the city of Palm Springs and $1 million for business support, with a focus on those impacted by Section 14.

While the summit celebrated the historic settlement, it faced opposition from many who believe it fell short. News Channel 3’s John White breaks down the update and speaks with the community in an I-Team piece.

Stay with News Channel 3 for Section 14 coverage and to hear from those impacted.

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Athena Jreij

Update 11/16/25

Cathedral City confirmed Public Works crews have completed cleanup operations following the mudslide, and Varner Road has now been reopened to traffic.

Original Report 11/15/25

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) –Nearly 30 people were evacuated from their cars at Varner Road and Date Palm Drive after a mudslide trapped them.

Over a dozen cars were stranded in the mud after a heavy downpour in the area.

Bulldozers were called out to tow the cars and clear the area.

Frankie Espinoza says she was on her way to dog sit at a friend’s house when her and her niece got caught in the storm, following several accidents on the road.

“There was one accident behind us. Nobody was hurt in that one, I think it was just a fender bender. But they were able to get their family, towed them out. Then there was this one in front of us. There was another accident that occurred probably a mile behind us. So this road has just been crazy for the past two hours,” Espinoza said.

No injuries were reported, but several people were taken into ambulances to warm up.

Varner Road at Date Palm Drive has been closed due to hazardous conditions, with the closure expected to last through the weekend.

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