Category: kifi-local-news

Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Labor Day Weekend comes to a close today, so it might be crowded on the roads today and possibly tomorrow.

Gas prices are lower, says AAA Idaho, and hotels, airfares, and car rentals are cheaper than they were a year ago. The two-lane roads might be especially crowded because more people will be driving RVs and trailers, which often go slower.

“They’re going a little bit slower and they’re on these two lane roads. Sometimes people get impatient, start weaving in and out of those situations, trying to gain some ground, and that can be dangerous,” said AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director, Matthew Conde.

He also says if drivers are pulling trailers, they need to make sure their chains are snug, but not too tight. If the chains drag on the ground, they could spark a fire.

“You also don’t want to cheat and twist that chain to try to shorten up that length,” Conde said. “And the reason for that is if you get water or any kind of gunk or debris up into those…in between those links, well now you increase the chances of rusting and some other things that could go on there as well.”

Conde reminds drivers to be careful, be patient, and do their part so everyone on the roads can make it to their destinations safely.

Click here to follow the original article.

News Team

UPDATE:

JACKSON, Wyo. (KIFI) — Missing hunter Timothy Hinebaugh has been located safe, Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies confirmed on social media.

“Thank you everyone for sharing and helping look for him,” the Teton County Sheriff’s Office wrote on social media. “Please be safe while out in the backcountry!”

ORIGINAL:

JACKSON, Wyo. (KIFI) — The Teton County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for help in locating a hunter who has been missing since August 23.

Timothy Hinebaugh, 58, was last seen traveling south from Jackson on Highway 89 in a white Ford Fiesta with Maryland license plate 9DH0914.

As the busy Labor Day weekend kicks off hunting season and brings more visitors to the area, authorities are urging everyone to be on the lookout. Hinebaugh is described as being 6 feet tall, weighing approximately 200 pounds, with blonde hair and hazel eyes.

If you have any information about Hinebaugh’s whereabouts, please contact the Teton County Sheriff’s Office at 307-733-2331.

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

BUHL, Idaho (KIFI) — The Buhl Police Department has identified and charged three juvenile suspects after a local skate park was vandalized with “racist and hateful graffiti” last weekend. The suspects were identified following a swift community response to the department’s Facebook post that helped authorities with the investigation.

On the evening of Friday, August 22, the skate park was defaced with racist slurs, hate symbols, and gang markings. The incident sparked outrage and prompted the police department to issue a public statement.

“Acts of hate and destruction have no place in Buhl, and we will continue to hold offenders accountable,” the police department wrote in an updated release.

The three suspects face charges of felony malicious harassment and malicious injury to property. Two are now in custody, though their names will not be released due to their age.

The police department also extended its gratitude to the community for its support, especially those who came forward with information and volunteered to help clean up the offensive symbols.

“Your efforts made a difficult situation better and showed the strength and unity of our city. The pride you take in keeping our parks and public spaces safe and welcoming is greatly appreciated.”

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

SMOOT, Wyo. (KIFI) — Fire crews are making progress on the Willow Creek fire. In a release this morning, Bridger-Teton National Forest rangers confirmed that the fire is now 38% contained.

The fire has only grown to around 65 acres since August 29, reaching 4065 acres today, according to the release.

Today, crews on the north end are working directly on the fire line to put out hot spots and secure the perimeter. On the east side, hoses and sprinklers have been set up near structures, ready to be used if the fire approaches, according to the release.

Evacuation zones remain at a ‘SET’ status, meaning residents should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. The affected areas are from milepost 75 south to Salt Pass and west of Highway 89, from Reeves-Schwab Lane south to Gomm’s Pond. To sign up for notifications, click HERE.

Click here to follow the original article.

News Team

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — Starting this Wednesday, September 3rd, the Rexburg soup kitchen will once again be serving hot, nourishing meals at the VFW building. Whether you need a warm plate of food or some pantry items to take with you, everyone is welcome.

In an effort to restock their shelves for the fall and winter seasons, the organization will host a food donation drive this Saturday, September 6th, from 10 a.m. to noon. The community is encouraged to bring unopened pantry items to the back of the VFW building.

For those interested in volunteering or learning more, additional information can be found at justserve.org or the soup kitchen’s official website at rexburg-soup-kitchen.square.site/.

Click here to follow the original article.

Maile Sipraseuth

UPDATE:

LINCOLN COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — A terrifying new video captures the moment a bridge collapsed inside the Shoshone Ice Caves north of Twin Falls on Sunday night. Three people were injured, including one man who fractured six ribs and had to be airlifted to the hospital.

The video was taken by Jacqueline García, who was inside the caves with her family when the incident occurred. Her family can be heard talking about how they had reached the end of the cave when they fell into the icy water below.

“My first reaction… I was in shock,” said García. “I was worried about my daughter because I knew I had her with me. And I was worried about handing her to my husband.”

She says, once they got out, the reaction from the cave’s owners surprised them.

“Some gentleman hands me a phone, and it was the owner that was on the phone. He was saying, I’m not allowed to call 911, but you can,” said Garcia.

Lincoln County dispatch received a call around 5:47 p.m., with initial reports of up to 20 people trapped. Thankfully, emergency crews quickly accounted for everyone. García tells us she and her daughter suffered whiplash, bruises, and minor leg injuries. Her father, the man who had to be airlifted to the hospital, is facing a few months of recovery.

Shoshone ice caves made a statement via Facebook, thanking first responders and stating that everyone was safe following the incident. The cause of the bridge collapse remains undetermined.

According to a report by KIVI, the co-owner of the ice caves says the people fell about two feet. The owner hopes to have the walkway fixed within a week.

ORIGINAL:

LINCOLN COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — Three people are recovering today after a bridge collapsed inside the popular Shoshone Ice Caves north of Twin Falls last night.

Lincoln County dispatch received a call around 5:47 p.m. reporting the collapse. While initial calls indicated as many as 20 people might be trapped, emergency crews on the scene quickly determined everyone was accounted for, though three people had been injured in the collapse.

File: Google Earth

One person reportedly suffered what appeared to be broken ribs, while two others had minor injuries, according to a release by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency responders, including personnel from Lincoln County EMS and Shoshone Fire, provided medical aid on site before the injured were transported for further treatment.

Sheriff René King thanked the first responders, including the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, SIRCOMM, and LifeFlight, for their swift response in the rescue effort.

Click here to follow the original article.

News Release

The following is a news release from the City of Idaho Falls:

IDAHO FALLS (KIFI) — The Idaho Falls City Council has approved the city’s 2025-26 fiscal year budget, resulting in a balanced financial plan that outlines how public funds will be invested in essential services, infrastructure and community growth.

The City’s $389.6 million budget provides authority to fund all services and operations across 11 departments, from daily programs and staffing to major infrastructure and facility improvements. This budget sets the maximum spending limit, and supports essential services including public safety, utilities, the airport, library, parks and recreation and other resources residents rely on. About 16 percent of the budget, or $52 million comes from property taxes, while the remainder is covered by utilities, fees, grants, and other revenue sources. 

“This budget is more than numbers on a page—it is a roadmap for how we will meet the needs of today while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow,” said Mayor Rebecca Casper. “We are committed to fiscal responsibility, supporting our workforce, and ensuring that city residents continue to receive the high-quality services they depend on.”

Key highlights of the approved budget include:

•    A strong emphasis on public safety, with funding to sustain 12 firefighter positions previously supported by a federal SAFER grant, ensuring emergency response levels are maintained even after federal dollars expire. The budget also provides resources for facilities and equipment upgrades to keep pace with a growing population. 

•    Pay and benefit adjustments across all departments to help the city recruit and retain employees in a highly competitive labor market. These investments strengthen Idaho Falls’ ability to reduce turnover and ensure residents are served by experienced, well-trained staff.

•    Investments in technology and infrastructure, with $111.4 million for capital projects across the city, including a major Idaho Falls Regional Airport terminal expansion, utility system upgrades, and facility improvements, along with the replacement of the city’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Together, these investments address current needs, improve efficiency, and position Idaho Falls for long-term growth and resilience.

The budget also reflects community priorities identified in the City Council’s strategic plan. These priorities support investments in power, fiber, water, sanitation, parks, etc. to ensure Idaho Falls continues to grow while meeting the needs residents value most. These plans are informed by the results of the National Community Survey conducted earlier this year. This comprehensive survey of residents was designed to gauge citizen satisfaction with city services and quality of life.

The budget was adopted on Aug. 28 following a public hearing held on Aug. 14, where residents were invited to provide input and feedback.

“Our goal is always to balance the city’s core responsibilities with creative vision for improvement and innovation,” Casper said.

The 2026 Budget Book, a comprehensive financial document that outlines the City’s planned revenues and expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year, is now available online for residents to review. It offers a detailed look at how funds are allocated across city departments, upcoming capital projects, staffing investments and key initiatives that support Idaho Falls’ growth and quality of life.

View the 2026 Annual Budget Book https://www.idahofallsidaho.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/4593

Click here to follow the original article.

News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — In a moving tribute to the heroes of 9/11 and our local first responders, the Idaho Falls Police Department and Anheuser-Busch are hosting their annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb from today through September 11.

Police, firefighters, and Anheuser-Busch employees will honor the 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, and 8 paramedics who lost their lives by climbing 2,071 steps—matching the 110 floors of the Twin Towers.

Donations from the event will support three vital local charities: the Chaplains of Idaho, the Greater Idaho Falls Police Foundation, and the Idaho Falls Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 6 – Officer Wellness Fund.

To pledge your support or make a donation, click HERE.

Click here to follow the original article.

Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Sunday, August 31, is International Overdose Awareness Day, and there will be a community candlelight vigil in Idaho Falls to recognize it.

The vigil will be presided by Brick House Recovery, whose founder, Jason Coombs, says overdose continues to affect families throughout the country.

The event is meant to remember those who were lost to drug overdose, support families who have been affected, and help the public know what resources are available to prevent and recover from overdose.

People are invited to gather at the Greenbelt Stage Pavilion at 7:30 p.m. Candles will be provided.

Click here to follow the original article.

Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho is busy with events and a new exhibit for the public to enjoy.

The museum recently opened its first self-guided audio tour, Make Your Mark: A Celebration of Process, Passion, and Possibility. This exhibit features acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media works by local artists and educators.

Visitors get to put on headphones and hear interviews from the artists about the processes they went through while creating their pieces. The museum hopes visitors will feel encouraged to try their hand at art and create something of their own.

“I would love it if they would go home and get out of pencil and paper and or paint and fiddle around, doodle a little and have some fun with it. It’s really quite fun,” said Artist Gloria Miller Allen.

“The museum is here to celebrate education, empowering people to be creative, enjoy looking at art, contemplating, having a dialog with yourself as you look, and trusting that there’s really no right answers in art. So it’s a lot of fun to just explore,” said Museum Executive Director Alexa Stanger.

Saturday, the museum brought back Rolling on the River, where art was made using a full-sized steamroller as a printing press. Visitors and local artists gathered in the parking lot as large woodblock prints were made. Stanger says the event brings artists and art lovers together in a way that is bold and dynamic.

Click here to follow the original article.