Category: kifi-local-news

News Team

KEMMERER, Wyoming (KIFI) — U.S. Senators for Wyoming are applauding the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for officially issuing a construction permit for TerraPower’s “groundbreaking” advanced nuclear reactor. This approval marks the first time in over 40 years that a non-light water reactor has received such approval in the United States.

The permit authorizes TerraPower to build a Natrium reactor, a sodium-cooled advanced design, on a site adjacent to a retiring coal-fired power plant in Kemmerer. This decision represents the first NRC approval for any commercial reactor construction in nearly a decade.

“This is a historic step forward for advanced nuclear energy in the United States and reflects our commitment to delivering timely, predictable decisions grounded in a rigorous and independent safety review,” NRC Chairman Ho Nieh said.

“The Energy Capital of America”

Wyoming’s Congressional delegation praised the move as a dual victory for energy independence and the state’s local economy.

“Wyoming is the energy capital of America. We are also the number one producer of uranium in the country,” said Senator Barrasso (R-WY). “That’s why Wyoming is the right place to build modern nuclear energy infrastructure that provides safe, affordable, and reliable energy. This groundbreaking project is another way to help diversify Wyoming’s already strong energy economy.”

Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) released a statement calling the approval a “landmark day” for Wyoming, linking the project to the Trump Administration’s broader goals of national energy independence.

“Wyoming has long powered this nation, and I’m proud that we are leading the next generation of nuclear energy,” said Lummis. “TerraPower’s advanced reactor will bring economic opportunity to Kemmerer and western Wyoming, while proving that America can build the technologies of the future right here at home.”

Click here to follow the original article.

Par Kermani

CHUBBUCK, Idaho (KIFI)— The wait for the “One Love” in East Idaho is nearly over. Raising Cane’s has officially announced that its newest restaurant will open its doors in Chubbuck on Tuesday, March 31.

Located at 4310 Yellowstone Ave., the restaurant is finally coming to the local community.

“We’re thrilled to bring Raising Cane’s to Chubbuck,” said Restaurant Leader Gavin Allen. “This new restaurant gives us the chance to connect with the Idaho community, share our ‘One Love,’ and create a space where neighbors and families can come together.”

Beyond the food, the restaurant plans to partner with area schools, sports teams, and non-profits through various sponsorships and fundraising opportunities.

To prepare for the March 31 launch, Raising Cane’s is currently looking to hire 135 crewmembers, including cashiers, fry cooks, and customer service associates.

Interested candidates can apply online at jobs.raisingcanes.com to schedule an interview. In-person interviews are being held daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the restaurant site on Yellowstone Avenue through Saturday, March 14.

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) — The young man charged with the fatal shooting of a Blackfoot mother in her home last year will spend up to the next six decades behind bars.

16-year-old Bobby G. Jackson was sentenced to 24 years fixed and 36 years indeterminate for Second Degree Murder in the death of Rebecca Rivera, the Blackfoot Police Department announced today.

On October 23, 2025, prosecutors say Jackson stole a firearm before meeting with and shooting Rivera in the head while at a Blackfoot trailer park. The teen ran on foot, making his way to Chubbuck and eventually to Pocatello, where he was taken into custody without incident late the same night.

RELATED: 16-year-old charged with first-degree murder in shooting death of Blackfoot’s Rebecca Rivera

Last month, Jackson pleaded guilty to second-degree murder as part of a binding agreement with prosecutors.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rebbeca Rivera,” Blackfoot Police stated in a news release. “Incidents of this nature leave lasting pain and grief, and our thoughts remain with all who continue to mourn her loss…The family and friends of Rebbeca remain in our thoughts during this difficult time.”

The Blackfoot Police thanked their regional law enforcement partners for their “swift cooperation and assistance” in apprehending Jackson on the night of the homicide.

Click here to follow the original article.

Bailee Shaw

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — A Boise woman accused of crashing a stolen ambulance into a medical office building and attempting to set it on fire must remain behind bars pending her upcoming trial.

On February 23, Prosecutors say that George stole an ambulance from St. Luke’s Hospital and drove it directly into the Portico North Building, which houses offices for the Department of Homeland Security. Following the crash, George poured gasoline around the area in an alleged attempt to set the building on fire.

RELATED: Boise woman faces federal charges after allegedly ramming stolen ambulance into Meridian office building

During yesterday’s detention hearing, the defense asked for her release with GPS monitoring, arguing that no one was physically hurt in the incident. But prosecutors argued the incident put lives at risk and said she would need round-the-clock supervision.

The judge ruled that 43-year-old Sarah Elizabeth George poses a potential danger to the community and denied her request for pretrial release, citing the severity of the incident and the risk to public safety.

George has pleaded not guilty to charges of Attempted Destruction of Federal Property by Fire and Malicious Destruction of Property Used in or Affecting Interstate Commerce by Fire. If convicted, she faces at least seven years in prison, and possibly much more under federal terrorism sentencing rules.

Her trial is set for April 20th.

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

PRESTON, Idaho (KIFI) — A 67-year-old Preston man has died from injuries after being hit by a pickup truck while crossing the road over the weekend.

The accident happened around 3:44 p.m. on February 28. The man was using a marked crosswalk to cross South State Street, north of West First Street, when he was hit by a 2003 pickup truck heading south. The driver of the truck has been identified as a 62-year-old male from Nibley, Utah.

Emergency responders rushed the man to a local hospital in critical condition. He succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, March 3. The investigation into the cause of the crash remains ongoing.

Click here to follow the original article.

David Pace

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) – A bill stirring discussion about the potential impacts to Harriman State Park passed the Idaho Senate on Monday.

The legislation’s sponsor, Idaho Senator Doug Okuniewicz, R-Hayden, reached out to Local News 8 today to defend his legislation and share his support for the bill.

“If there were even a remote chance that we thought this could jeopardize a park – let alone Harriman – we wouldn’t do this,” Okuniewicz said.

Senate Bill 1300 proposes that the Governor appoint the directors of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho Fish and Game and Idaho Transportation Department, subject to confirmation by the state Senate every four years.

Okuniewicz said the directors are presently appointed by a board or a commission, whose members are appointed by the Governor.

The Senator believes having political appointees would improve relationships between the Legislature and the agencies.

He acknowledged that he’s received opposition claiming that the proposed law would violate the state of Idaho’s 1961 agreement with the Harriman family that established Harriman State Park.

Section 4(b) of that agreement states: “The People of the State of Idaho acting by and through the Legislature of Idaho will establish pursuant to law a professionally staffed career Park Service whose personnel shall be chosen on the basis of merit alone, and which shall be administered under merit system procedures for personnel administration, and the said Park Service shall, when established, be vested with the control and administration of the Park, subject to the advice and consent of the Governor of Idaho.”

Under Okuniewicz’s new legislation, the Senator said the Governor would still appoint directors to the three agencies based on their merit.

“As I said on the Senate floor, there’s zero risk of this somehow violating an agreement with the Harriman family – particularly to such a degree that it resulted in any kind of repercussions,” Okuniewicz said. “So the bill is perfectly in line with that agreement and can coexist with it quite easily.”

A grandson of one of the park’s original owners, Averrell Harriman Fisk, disagrees, sharing in a statement, “The gift is currently under threat by a bill pending in the Idaho Legislature. For years, Harriman State Park has been enjoyed by our family and millions of visitors. It must be protected from political whims. It must be protected for the people of Idaho.”

Senate Bill 1300 passed the Senate by a vote of 21 to 14 on Monday, and now goes to the Idaho House of Representatives for consideration.

Click here to follow the original article.

Phillip Willis

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFK) — It’s big election year with a May primary election and November general election. Last week was filing week for all candidates, people who could have heavy sway on issues that impact students and educators if they win. Class sizes, programs, and resources are all tied to the purse, and those elected to legislative power will hold those strings.

In the elections, there are rematches, comebacks, rookies, and a few uncontested champions. As races stretch across the state, and campaigning begins, it’s only fitting that we take a look at the one thing that truly matters to education… numbers.

272 candidates filed for the 105 legislative seats

29 are running for seven statewide offices

99 of the 105 incumbents are seeking relection

That’s not a lot of open seats.

There are many more Democrats running this year than in years prior, with twice as many running now than there were in 2022.

There will be 48 Republican primaries and seven Democratic primaries – that is, unless someone drops out. There have been a few cases of that happening, so it’s not without precedent.

Some East Idaho races are drawing attention. The return of past lawmakers Chad Christensen and Julianne Young is making waves – Young lost to Ben Fuhriman of Shelly by only a few votes in the last go-round.

Seven incumbents have no challengers at all, including Representative David Cannon of Blackfoot. He’s set up for another term without a contest.

In statewide races, both the Governor and State Superintendent are facing challengers, but the State Superintendent has no primary challengers for May.

The primary election is on May 19, and the general election is November 3.

You can find further details on these political races and their impact on education by visiting idahoednews.org.

Click here to follow the original article.

David Pace

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) – Rexburg’s Mayor Jerry Merrill touted the city’s economic growth during a State of the City address Tuesday.

New businesses and developments coming to Rexburg include a WinCo, Home Depot, Olive Garden, Zupa’s, Jersey Mike’s, Zeppe’s, Shoe Barn, and Rexburg’s first skybridge between apartment buildings, Merrill said.

Watch Mayor Merrill’s full State of the City Address below:

“Most importantly, our community is defined by you. You are the ones making an impact, growing our university, our local businesses, and our neighborhoods,” he said.

The city, home to Brigham Young University-Idaho, is also experiencing widespread growth.

“Rexburg has changed a lot in the last century. Today, our population has surpassed 40,000 residents, with internal projections putting us at approximately 46,000,” Merrill said. “We are a young, vibrant city. 85% of our residents are under the age of 30 years old.”

The city will also begin constructing a new park on the banks of the Teton River this year.

A Rexburg Future and Founder’s Day celebration will be held on March 14 at the old Madison Junior High Building on Main Street.

Rexburg will also be commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Teton Dam flood and the 250th birthday of America with special celebrations throughout the year.

Click here to follow the original article.

Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce is warning of a dual threat to local Idaho Falls business leaders, citing a looming state budget deficit and a nationwide “leadership deficit.”

During a recent networking event, Chamber CEO Paul Baker described the current fiscal environment as a “critical moment” for Eastern Idaho. He warned that despite the region being called the best-performing small cities in the country, legislative decisions in Boise are creating a “trickle-down” effect that will soon hit local taxpayers.

“If there is another round of tax cuts, we don’t just have a budget problem… we actually have a revenue problem,” Baker said. “We don’t have the revenue coming in that we can afford to do the things that the state needs to do to operate.”

According to Baker, the warning comes as Idaho faces a projected unconstitutional deficit of between $40 million and $80 million.

Baker noted that these gaps often manifest in higher health insurance premiums as hospitals absorb Medicaid cuts, and increased pressure on local law enforcement and education.

Beyond the balance sheet, Baker identified a second “silent” threat to the private sector: a lack of qualified leaders entering the workforce.

“There’s this other thing that’s kind of quietly happening. It’s called the leadership deficit that’s happening across our country right now,” Baker said. “And what that means is that organizations are just not seeing the quality of people coming up with natural leadership skills. And so we’re having to teach that, and it’s a huge cost. So productivity, revenue, retention, you name it, huge costs in the private sector.”

Citing national data, Baker noted that 77% of organizations report a leadership gap. In Eastern Idaho, the Chamber estimates the resulting loss in productivity and retention costs the local economy approximately $1 billion.

To combat the talent drain, the Chamber is expanding its Young Professionals program, a two-year leadership curriculum for high school seniors. The program aims to provide students with professional skills and “reasons to stay” in Idaho rather than exporting talent to other states.

The Chamber will host a fundraiser gala on March 13 to support the youth leadership initiative economic shifts

Click here to follow the original article.

KIVI Staff

Originally Published: 03 MAR 26 14:57 ET

By Sahana Patel

Click here for updates on this story

    MOUNTAIN HOME, Idaho (KIVI) — A Mountain Home mother is recovering from serious injuries after the family’s foster dog attacked her while she was holding her infant daughter.

Natasha Chapman said the attack happened on Friday, Feb. 20. Her 4-year-old daughter, Atalie, was home from school, and her husband, Nate, was at work in Eagle when the family’s foster dog, Bodie, a Lab Catahoula mix, attacked her while she was holding her 11-month-old baby.

“So I tossed her out of the way and just went back to fighting him off,” Chapman said. “He had bit down on, I think this arm first, and then this arm, and like he had bitten all over and then at one point he had my face and my ear.”

Bodie had been with the family since November. Chapman said they were actively looking to rehome him and that the attack was unexpected.

“It was totally out of character. I would never have a dog that I thought was dangerous,” Chapman said.

While Chapman was being attacked, Atalie ran down the street screaming for help until a neighbor came to their rescue.

“I was sitting on the floor, and the neighbor came in, and she scooped up the baby who was just crawling around. And she immediately started calling everybody for me,” Chapman said.

Mountain Home Police arrived quickly, and four officers stayed for more than two hours caring for the girls.

“Then the cops really took over taking care of the girls. I guess they had them in the cop car and were playing with them,” Chapman said.

The community response extended beyond that day. Friends brought food, others offered furniture — because Chapman now has to sleep upright to restore blood flow to her ear. Plus, a local jiu-jitsu gym offered free classes for Atalie, including purchasing her a gi.

Bodie was euthanized following the attack, a decision Chapman said she is still struggling with.

“I have a lot of guilt because my daughter misses him so much. She tells me every day she misses Bodie. I have all this guilt because it feels like I triggered something. Which logically I know that I didn’t because I wasn’t hurting him,” Chapman said. “Since I’m the one who was attacked, I feel like I had to have done something to set him off, and he was like my daughter’s best friend,” Chapman said.

Chapman said she can currently hear out of her left ear, but there is still limited blood flow, and doctors have told her there is a chance she could lose it. She is also dealing with nerve damage that has left part of her face paralyzed.

Despite her injuries, Chapman said she is grateful for the outpouring of support from her neighbors.

“They just embraced my family and have helped us so much. It’s been insane,” Chapman said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. ­­­KIVI verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. ­­­KIVI verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2026 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

Click here to follow the original article.