Category: kesq-local-news

Shay Lawson

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ)  – Update 9/24/2025

In a new statement to News Channel 3, Tamara Wadkins, The Desert Sands Unified School District Public Information Officer, said:

“There were two separate situations involving two different students. Both are being addressed, and the school is working closely with the families to provide care and support. In the instance that occurred off campus, school administration was not informed until several days later, which delayed our ability to respond right away.

Bullying is not tolerated at Thomas Jefferson Middle School or at any of our DSUSD campuses. We are committed to addressing incidents proactively as soon as we become aware of them. When concerns are reported, our staff investigate, conference with students, contact families, and assign appropriate support and consequences. In addition, our team works diligently every day to prevent incidents and to promote positive relationships among students.

If families have an incident to report, we strongly encourage them to reach out directly to their school site as soon as possible so we can respond quickly and effectively. The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our highest priority.”

Original report 9/23/2025

Sarai Cervantes, an Indio mother, is demanding answers after she says her autistic son was beaten by classmates near Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Indio.

“We come from Dr. Carreon, now Thomas Jefferson,” Cervantes said. “He’s been being bullied, targeted by other children because he’s in special ed. He’s autistic. He has ADHD and two different mood disorders.”

She said the violence escalated Monday afternoon when her son, Evan Cervantes, was followed to Pawley Pool, about a 4 minute walk from campus.

“Some kids got him, took him to the restroom and started beating him up,” Sarai said. “They covered his mouth. They told him not to say anything. They hit him several times in his face, upper body, back and his stomach.”

She said she took Evan to urgent care, where a doctor found swelling in his liver and kidneys caused by the assault.

“It makes me feel horrible,” Sarai said. “I sent him to school to learn. It’s already hard enough for him with all his disabilities. And it’s supposed to be his safe spot.”

In a statement to News Channel 3 Tamara Wadkins, The Desert Sands Unified School District Public Information Officer, said:

“There was one incident reported on the Thomas Jefferson Middle School campus. Upon learning of it, school staff took immediate action, investigated thoroughly, and worked directly with the parents of those involved. Appropriate consequences and discipline were administered.

DSUSD is committed to fostering a school culture where all students feel safe, supported, and valued. Our staff work diligently to prevent incidents and to promote positive relationships among students. If families have concerns or questions, we encourage them to reach out directly to their school site.”

“He is not the only one,” Sarai said. “There are several other kids who are being bullied.”

She said she’s filed a police report but has yet to hear from the school principal or district leaders.

“I just want answers,” Sarai said. “Today it was my son, tomorrow it’s going to be someone else’s. There’s no proof. There’s nothing. All there is is bruises, marks, pain and anxiety.”

Now, she’s asking the community for help identifying those involved.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear directly from Evan in the full report at 10 and 11 p.m.

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City News Service

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – A man accused of intentionally setting a fire that fatally injured a 43-year-old Coachella woman must stand trial for first-degree murder and other charges, a judge ruled today.

Richard Michael Carmona, 41, was arrested in December following an extensive investigation into the alleged arson attack that killed Arlene Danielle Avila.

At the end of a preliminary hearing at the Larson Justice Center in Indio Tuesday, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Randolph Rogers found there was sufficient evidence to bound Carmona over for trial on the murder count and a special circumstance allegation of causing death by arson.

The judge scheduled a post-preliminary hearing arraignment for Oct. 8. Carmona is being held without bail at the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning.

According to sheriff’s investigators, shortly after midnight last Oct. 31, the defendant allegedly ignited an outdoor fire in the 51000 block of Cesar Chavez Street, near 51st Street, to which Avila was directly exposed.   

The specific circumstances were not disclosed, including a possible motive.   

Carmona allegedly fled the scene, as witnesses called 911. Patrol deputies and firefighters reached the location within minutes and discovered the victim severely burned and the fire still raging in surrounding brush, authorities said.

The blaze was quickly knocked down, and Avila was airlifted to a regional trauma center, where she lingered in intensive care for weeks before succumbing to her injuries, according to court documents.

Central Homicide Unit detectives gathered sufficient evidence to obtain an arrest warrant for Carmona, who was taken into custody without incident on Christmas Eve.

Background information on the defendant was unavailable.

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Dillon Fuhrman

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) – The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) says Merlon Kidwell, their Watermaster for 50 years, has retired.

Joining IID in 1975, Kidwell ensured “the reliable delivery of water to nearly half a million acres of some of the nation’s most productive farmland, as well as to cities, businesses, and industries in California’s Imperial Valley,” IID said.

“Being the Watermaster can be a great job, but you have to be able to accept the world as not being perfect,” Kidwell said, who also trained and supervised staff in the trade. “If the water is in the banks when you get to work, then a smart Watermaster will take that as a win. As we operate over 1,600 miles of irrigation infrastructure, we are always prepared for any challenges that may come up during the course of a day.”

IID says Kidwell is one of six people to hold the job title since 1940, and his contributions include “improving the water scheduling system to allow more effective planning, ensuring timely delivery, shorter-duration orders, and reducing inefficiencies.”

“The work of our Water Department is truly fascinating as it involves so many critical moving parts that need to be in sync in order for us to reliably deliver water 24/7,” said IID Board Chairwoman Gina Dockstader. “We are amazed at the expertise this requires, which is exemplified by such dedicated and respected employees as Mr. Kidwell. We truly thank him for all that he has done over the years and remain in a debt of gratitude.”

To learn more about this, click here.

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Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The grand marshals for the 2025 Palm Springs Pride Parade were announced on Tuesday, which includes News Channel 3 anchor Peter Daut.

Peter is joined by Sister Roma, Holly Near, Esther Loewen, Renae Punzalan, and Jasper Price.

Organizers said the grand marshals were chosen for their profound commitment to fostering inclusion and community connection in the Greater Palm Springs area who embody this year’s Pride theme, “Be Heard.”

Douglas Woodmansee and Marshall Pearcy, also known as Dottie and Maude, are recognized as 2025 Pride Royalty.

The Palm Springs Pride Parade will be held on Sunday, November 9.

“Amidst a rising tide of challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community nationwide, from legislative bans on gender-affirming care and curriculum censorship to a surge in anti-trans legislation, the dedication of these Grand Marshals is more crucial than ever,” said Jasmine Sullivan Waits, Executive Director of Palm Springs Pride. “They stand as a powerful force against a coordinated effort to silence LGBTQ+ stories and erase their presence from public life. They remind us that our stories cannot be silenced, and our community will not be erased.”

This year’s Grand Marshals are:

Sister Roma, Grand Marshal: For nearly four decades, Sister Roma has been a globally recognized member of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence in San Francisco. She joined the order in 1987, inspired by their pioneering work in HIV/AIDS education and fundraising. A tireless activist and fundraiser, Roma has raised millions of dollars for charitable causes and helped create impactful social movements, such as the #MyNameIs campaign.

Holly Near, Celebrity Grand Marshal: A renowned singer and storyteller, Holly Near has dedicated over 40 years to creating music that inspires activism and celebrates a more equitable world. Her powerful, consistent voice has made her an outspoken ambassador for peace and justice. Through her music and performances, she connects with audiences who believe in peace, justice, and feminism, a true reflection of humanity’s beautiful spectrum.

Peter Daut, Community Grand Marshal: A six-time Emmy Award-winning journalist for KESQ News Channel 3, Peter is being honored for his commitment to community service and his powerful reporting. A strong believer in giving back, he hosts numerous events to raise funds for worthy causes, including the Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast, and uses his platform to raise awareness for deserving local nonprofits.

Esther Loewen, Marsha P. Johnson Grand Marshal: An Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, educator, and podcast host, Esther is being honored for her work in creating inclusion and celebrating authenticity. She brings a deep understanding of mental health and human connection to her advocacy, sharing her insights through her podcast, Transgender Woman Talking. 

Renae Punzalan, Marsha P. Johnson Grand Marshal: A native Chamorro from Guam, Renae is the Director of Youth Services at the Transgender Health & Wellness Center. She is recognized for her advocacy for transgender rights, a mission she has pursued through her work at the Marsha P. Johnson LGBTQ+ Youth Drop-In Center and by helping organize events like Trans Pride and Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR).

Jasper Price, Marsha P. Johnson Grand Marshal: As the Director of Trans & Gender Expansive Programs at the LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, Jasper works to expand affirming resources and programming throughout the Coachella Valley. With a background in Gender Studies and Social Work, he focuses on mental health and education for both youth and adults, providing brave and affirming spaces where people can explore their identities.

“Dottie and Maude” have been declared Palm Springs Pride Royalty for Life. Together since 1976 and Palm Springs residents since 1980, they have been an integral part of the Pride Parade since 1995. As Les Dames du Soleil, they have helped raise over $2 million for local HIV/AIDS charities, cementing their legacy as pillars of the community.

For more information about the Grand Marshals and the full list of official events, visit pspride.org.

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Kendall Flynn

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Desert Library is embracing Emergency Preparedness Month and bringing it into story time with local families. 

The library is bringing in the city’s public works team to demonstrate how they keep the city safe and clean with their trucks. They’ll also be joining story time for local children, by reading them a couple books before the show and tell.

Workers with Palm Desert Public Works tell News Channel 3 it’s important to tell children about their jobs because they see them on the street but may not know what they are doing. Workers turned on equipment for the families and demonstrated how the machinery is used.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from local workers about the importance of their show and tell today.

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Jesus Reyes

YUCCA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – A 52-year-old Yucca Valley man was arrested following multiple reports of sexual assault involving children between the ages of five and 14 over several years.

Julio Cesar Vega Medina was identified as the suspect in the sexual assaults after the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station received multiple reports.

“During the course of the investigation, three victims positively identified Julio Cesar Vega Medina as the individual who sexually assaulted them,” reads a news release from the agency.

Medina was arrested Wednesday morning.

During a search of his residence, deputies located evidence linking Medina to a 2012 sexual assault of a minor in the city of Gardena, authorities said. Detectives later determined Gardena Police Department had an active felony warrant for Medina’s arrest in connection with that case, which was listed under one of his many aliases.

Medina was known to use the aliases Julio Calzada-Vega, Julio Calzada, Julio Vega Calzada, Julio Medina, Julio Cesar Vega, and Julio Cesar Vega Medina.

Authorities said several of the local incidents under investigation are believed to have occurred at a private residence in Yucca Valley where Medina played part in religious gatherings.

Medina was booked into the Morongo Basin jail, where he is being held on $3 million bail. He was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault. He pleaded not guilty to charges on Tuesday.

Gardena Police Department has also placed a hold on him as part of their ongoing lewd acts with a minor sexual, assault of a minor investigation.

Any additional victims or anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Detective Tyler A. Bengard or Detective David Rodriguez of the Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any updates.

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Kendall Flynn

THOUSANDS PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – Jimmy Kimmel Live! is set to return to the airwaves Tuesday night, according to the Walt Disney Company. His return follows a suspension due to comments he made about Charlie Kirks suspected killer.

Now Coachella Valley comedians are discussing their reactions to the suspension and now return. The suspension of the live show also raised questions throughout the country about free speech and the First Amendment. Stay with News Channel 3 to hear from local comedians about their reactions and the suspensions impacts.

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Luis Avila

Idyllwild, Calif. (KESQ) – A therapeutic sanctuary in Idyllwild is working to recover after being severely damaged by a powerful flash flood that tore through the area last week, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

The sudden surge of water inundated the neighborhood, sending torrents of mud and debris through roadways and properties. One of the hardest-hit locations was a local healing space, known as A Human Sanctuary.

Sascha Breuer, who helps run the sanctuary, described the terrifying moments when the floodwaters arrived.

“We have flood gates that we just put in and I opened both, and within seven minutes the whole back of this started piling up with water. We’re talking at this point it was just below my chest… There was a lot of swearing and me rushing forward and backwards. There wasn’t really time to freak out — just frantically unlodging everything.”

Sascha Breuer, Idyllwild Resident

Julie Anne Steiger, who also runs the sanctuary, said the timing couldn’t have been worse. The site had just completed major upgrades, including new fencing and walkways.

“This month we were supposed to launch workshops on the land here. A lot of the spaces that I had curated… were a part of what was swept away. A lot of the materials I had put out internationally and with my heart and a lot prayer are now three feet under soil.”

Julie Anne Steiger, Idyllwild Resident

While the initial mess has largely been cleared, Breuer says the real work is just beginning. In addition to rebuilding the sanctuary grounds, they’re also working on preventive measures to protect against future flooding.

“Clean up — which is the most immediate part, but we also have to build a flood barrier.”

Sascha Breuer, Idyllwild Resident

Despite the loss, the community’s support has been overwhelming. Giving those behind the sanctuary hope that their work will not only continue — but grow stronger.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help with recovery and rebuilding efforts. For more information or to donate, click here.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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María García

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ)- A 48-year-old Los Angeles man was killed in a rollover crash on Interstate 10 in Thousand Palms Tuesday morning.

The crash was reported just before 8 a.m., west of Cook Street.

According to the California Highway Patrol, a red Ford Explorer was traveling on the eastbound lane when “it made an unsafe turning movement to the right, drove off the roadway, and overturned onto the south dirt shoulder. The Ford came to rest on its roof.”

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. He was identified as Christopher Murphy.

The reason for the crash is still under investigation.  Drugs and/or alcohol are not suspected to be a factor, CHP confirmed.

All lanes on the I-10 are back open.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any updates.

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Cynthia White

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) – A 64-year-old woman who went missing from her Twentynine Palms home was located Monday after a search led by Morongo Basin Sheriff’s deputies and their K-9 unit Naji.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to a missing person report after the woman’s daughter discovered her mother, who is diagnosed with dementia, was not at their home on Athol Avenue. The woman was last seen on Saturday, September 20, around 11:00 a.m.

Family and friends had searched the area without success before contacting law enforcement for help.

Deputies launched a search, assisted by K-9 handler Deputy Bakker and K-9 Naji, who tracked the victim’s scent heading north from the home.

During the tracking, deputies recalled seeing a woman matching the description of the victim in the same area. Deputies checked at several local businesses, which confirmed the victim was seen in the local area.

The search expanded into the unincorporated Joshua Tree area. After hours of tracking, at just before 12:30 a.m. Monday, K-9 Naji led deputies to the woman more than 15 miles away, near Twentynine Palms Highway and Sunset Road.

Officials said the victim was found safe but was transported to a local hospital for evaluation as a precaution.

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