Category: ktvz-local-news

Barney Lerten

(Update: Details of arraignment, crime, suspect’s history of mental illness)

 PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Prineville man was arrested Monday evening on attempted murder, burglary and assault charges, accused of attacking and severely injuring another man in an “unprovoked attack’ at a northeast Prineville apartment.

Lindley Drew Purrington, 26, was being held without bail at the Crook County Jail. He was set to make an initial court appearance Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of second-degree attempted murder, first-degree burglary and second-degree assault.

An initial court filing identified the alleged victim as Steven Wayne Wilson.

More details of the crime came to light during Purrington’s arraignment before Crook County Circuit Judge Wade Whiting, who set his bail at $250,000. He scheduled Purrington’s arraignment next Monday on an expected formal indictment.

Deputy District Attorney Paxton Deuel told the judge that Purrington “has a history of mental illness” and civil commitments.

“He believes he is a (Star Wars) Jedi and attacked the victim because the victim was a Sith,” Deuel said of Purrington, who asked the judge to refer to him by his Jedi name of “Atlas.”

The prosecutor said Purrington told police of assaulting his neighbor: “I did it to end the war between the Jedi and the Sith.”

He said Purrington went to his neighbor’s apartment, pulled him out of his room and struck and beat him “repeatedly with his fists,” also recording the assault and posting it on social media.

PRINEVILLE POLICE NEWS RELEASEFrom Police Chief Jeff Profio:

On June 30, 2025, at approximately 5:09 p.m., Prineville dispatch received a 911 call reporting an assault in the 800 block of NE 3rd Street.  Prineville Police and the Crook County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.  They located a male victim suffering from major facial and head injuries.  The suspect was also located at the scene and quickly taken into custody.  

The initial investigation revealed that this was a completely unprovoked attack by the suspect.  Prineville Police arrested Lindley Drew Purrington, age 26, at the scene.  He was lodged in the Crook County Jail and charged with Attempted Murder in the second degree, Assault in the second degree, and Burglary in the first degree.  

The Prineville Police Department is aware of a video that was posted on social media of this heinous attack.  They have asked that the video be removed.       

Prineville Police believe they have all the parties involved in the incident accounted for and there is no ongoing threat to the community.  

The investigation is ongoing and there are no further details that can be released at this time.  If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Prineville Police Department at 541-447-4168.  The investigator is Officer Kelson Stewart and he can be reached at Kstewart@PrinevillePD.org.

—

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Isabella Warren

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– The legislative session officially ended Friday, and transportation funding failed to pass.

Democrats presented the package just last month, sending legislators across the aisle into a frenzy to ensure funding could be passed. Without that funding, the Oregon Department of Transportation says up to 1,000 jobs could be cut. 

However, bipartisan support could not be achieved, and legislators went home two days early.

Governor Tina Kotek has slammed the Legislature for not working to pass a package by Sunday, the legal last day of the session. At a press conference Saturday, she said, “I’m going to point out again, I’m here. Constitutional sine die is tomorrow. And legislators have gone home, and they have not produced anything on transportation that we need right now in the state.”

The Problem Solvers spoke with state Representative Emerson Levy, D-Bend, on Tuesday. She says if the funding did pass, ODOT wouldn’t have seen it for another year.

“The money would not have been realized until a year from now, so I’m not sure about the budget discrepancy that happened between Friday and July 1st, and I’m certainly open to hearing about it. But there would have been no money deposited between those times,” Levy said.

ODOT told the Problem Solvers in a statement that the department had been warning legislators for years about ongoing funding issues.

“ODOT cannot use federal funding for maintenance. State law prevents the agency from using project or transit money to pay for maintenance or agency operations,” the agency told KTVZ in a statement. “ODOT has taken voluntary reductions over the past six years, and no further reductions are available that won’t have consequences for Oregonians.”

The original transportation package was presented around a month ago and would have increased the state’s 40-cent gas tax by 15 cents.

Levy says the tax increases would have had devastating impacts on Oregonians. “The first package I couldn’t support – it was too much for working families. And I know what it’s like to get a big bill that you can’t pay.”

Lawmakers tried to pass a smaller bill Friday night, but also failed.

Locally, Cascade East Transit says it’s not currently affected, but added that if legislators continue to fail at passing funding, they could see impacts. 

The package would have increased the payroll tax from .1 to .3 percent, which CET says would have allowed an increase in services in Bend.

Levy said, “I know it’s not what people wanted, and it’s really not what I wanted. But again, I think a pause is the correct move.”

ODOT has been under fire by legislators earlier this year, after the department’s revenue came up $1 billion short. In an audit, ODOT told lawmakers the department’s system did not estimate correctly how much revenue they would receive in 2023-2024.

Below is a statement from ODOT about the layoffs:

For many years, ODOT has informed the Oregon Legislature that a structural revenue issue driven by flattening and declining gas tax revenue, inflation, and statutory restrictions on available funding would eventually force the agency to dramatically reduce its staffing and maintenance service levels if no intervention came forward. For the last three biennia, ODOT has taken progressively larger voluntary cuts to stay within budget.

Since last summer, ODOT has broadly shared that if the legislature did not address this shortfall during this legislative session, deeper cuts would have to start in the 2025-27 biennium.  

On Friday night, the legislature ended the session without passing a transportation package providing ODOT with either new funding, funding flexibility, or even an interim investment to stabilize services for the immediate upcoming biennium. As a result, ODOT will have to make deep and painful cuts starting in the next few weeks. 

ODOT cannot use federal funding for maintenance. State law prevents the agency from using project or transit money to pay for maintenance or agency operations. ODOT has taken voluntary reductions over the past six years, and no further reductions are available that won’t have consequences for Oregonians. The only way to balance the budget and live within available funding is to make deep and severe cuts. These cuts will harm Oregon’s transportation system, Oregon’s travelers, and the operational health of the agency. 

This week, ODOT will begin the layoff process. By the end of July, hundreds of positions will no longer be at ODOT. The agency is using vacancy savings wherever possible in order to minimize the number of layoffs but will still lose hundreds of current, hard-working employees. 

ODOT cannot solve this structural revenue issue on its own, and it won’t fix itself. Each year that passes, the vehicle fleet grows more efficient and uses less gas per mile driven. And with each year, the cost of doing business gets a little higher with inflation, while revenue sources stay flat. The only way out of this problem is for the legislature to dedicate additional funding to maintenance and agency operations or provide greater flexibility in how funds are spent.   

Oregon’s travelers will soon experience a less reliable transportation system. ODOT staff dedicated their professional lives to this agency and to supporting the traveling public. We will continue to do the best we can, with the resources we have, to keep Oregonians safe.

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Tracee Tuesday

REDMOND, Ore. [KTVZ] — Earlier this year, the Redmond City Council discussed a city-wide ban on the usage of 4th of July fireworks. Back then, Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch said, he wasn’t comfortable discussing a ban because organizations had already begun the process of purchasing their permits. 

Fast forward, just days before the 4th of July, City Council scheduled a special meeting on Tuesday, to discuss a city-wide ban on 4th of July fireworks. 

Attached to the City Council agenda were letters submitted to Council Members expressing their concern, especially after a recent blaze in Dry Canyon, which continues to heighten anxiety about dry conditions.  

Jillian Jeppsen, who is a parent and one of the organizers for TNT fireworks, said this special meeting is devastating to the organization. 

“The timing is horrible. While I understand the city wanting to keep our city safe, and we’re all for that, but to have this emergency meeting three days before the 4th of July… we’re in the middle of our sales! It really puts us in a hard place, and as an organization, potentially really being in the red because we’ve shelled out all this money, so it’s a huge financial burden for us.” 

Jeppsen also pointed out that the profits from the sale of fireworks go back to Redmond programs like the Junior Raven Travel Ball Club.  

But Marty, a Redmond resident, wants to put safety first. 

“I really support going to the fairgrounds and watching the fireworks show, and I think that maybe selling fireworks isn’t best for our community. With all the problems with the fires and everything, I just wanted to be safe.” 

Travis Leeman, who is operating the Discount Fireworks Store, said the sales actually help to uplift the Redmond community by sending many Oregon kids to church camps, through New Seasons Ministries. 

“It’s also disappointing to us here at the Fireworks Store, that the City Council is dropping this on us at the last minute. We’ve already paid the city for licensing and permits, and things that also benefit the community, and most people don’t realize that.” 

Meanwhile, local officials urge anyone planning to use fireworks to take precautions, keep a water source nearby, clear debris from launch areas, and never relight duds. 

They also strongly suggest attending a public display as a safer alternative. 

If you’d like to keep this Redmond 4th of July tradition alive, there is a way to send a message directly to Redmond City Council, the TNT location, sign the petition.  

Also, the Discount Fireworks Superstore, has a QR Code you can scan.  

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video)

La PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver officially broke ground last week on its largest affordable housing development to date: Park View, a 34-home neighborhood located in north La Pine, at the corner of Barron Road and Crescent Creek Drive.

The event marked a major milestone for the organization and the community’s efforts to address the growing need for affordable homeownership in South Deschutes County.

Here’s the rest of their announcement:

Board Chair Scott Asla, joined by Deschutes County commissioners Patti Adair, Phil Chang, and Tony DeBone, shared remarks highlighting the collaborative effort behind the development.

“Habitat makes such a difference. It makes a lifelong difference. If you can build up equity, have a home, your children will graduate from high school. We truly support you so thank you!” said Commissioner Adair.

“I’m really proud that the county has been such a long standing partner to Habitat and to other affordable housing developers, providing a stream of either land donations or land discounts so that we can make this kind of economic opportunity available To all of our families in our community, especially the kinds of working folks who we see end up in habitat housing in the pine so with that, I just want to say congratulations to habitat for making this project happen,” said Commissioner Chang.

“We went through a lot to get here, which is exciting. You know, we’ve got a model of who’s moving here now, people that have resources, maybe selling a house somewhere else and buying one here, but this is for the local folks, being able to get employment, generational wealth, the on ramp for that. So it’s so exciting, the mission of Habitat around the country, but being able to do this here on these four acres is really special for the community. So congrats!” said Commissioner DeBone.

Park View homes will serve income-qualified homebuyers earning 60–80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). All homeowners must qualify for a mortgage, complete homeownership education classes, and contribute sweat equity by helping build their homes and those of their neighbors.

Construction on the first four homes is scheduled to begin in 2026.

For more information about the Park View development or how to support affordable housing efforts in La Pine, visit www.habitatlapinesunriver.org or contact: info@habitatlapinesunriver.org.

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Barney Lerten

(Update: Adding video; cause, four teens cited)

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Four teens were cited late Monday for using legal fireworks that sparked a one-acre brush fire in Redmond’s Dry Canyon Park and prompted Level 3 GO NOW evacuation of 21 threatened homes, Redmond Fire Marshal Tom Mooney said.

The Quartz Fire was reported around 5:20 p.m. north of Quartz Park and Obsidian Avenue and quickly put up smoke visible over a wide area.

Mooney said 911 callers were reporting a fast-moving brush fire spreading to the southeast and threatening homes along SW Canyon Drive.

Due to the wind-fanned spread of the fire, Level 3 GO NOW evacuations were issued by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office for 21 homes on Canyon Drive, between Newberry and Quartz avenues.

“It is human-caused, by legal fireworks,” Redmond Fire Marshal Tom Mooney told KTVZ News. A joint investigation was underway by Redmond Fire and Redmond Police, he added.

Crews protected the threatened homes, and when the fire’s spread was stopped, the Level 3 evacuations were dropped to Level 2 BE SET, then Level 1 BE READY, DCSO Public Information Officer Jason Carr told us.

Forward progress of the fire was stopped before 6 p.m., but Mooney said crews would be on scene until the fire is “mopped up and cold.” Other agencies involved in stopping the fire included crews from Bend, Cloverdale, Sisters-Camp Sherman and the BLM.

A fire investigator arrived on scene and determined the fire to be human-caused due to the intentional use of legal-type fireworks, Mooney said.

“Through the assistance of multiple witnesses within the area, Redmond Police were able to identify four juveniles ranging in age (from) 15-16 years old who were reported in the area,” he said.

“The juveniles were contacted by Redmond Police, and it was determined that they had used fireworks to cause the fire within the canyon,” Mooney said. “The four juveniles were cited for reckless burning and criminal mischief and released to their parents’ custody.”

The fire occurred five days after another fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in another area of the Dry Canyon, south of Northwest Maple Avenue. It burned about three acres before it was quickly stopped.

And it happened a day before Redmond city councilors are meeting to discuss whether to ban personal-use fireworks in the city over the upcoming Fourth of July weekend.

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Jillian Fortner

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Think Wild invited volunteers to help launch a new habitat restoration project Thursday in Prineville.

The Crooked River Native Plant Stewardship Project, in partnership with Crook County Parks and Recreation, aims to turn a degraded riverside lot into a thriving native garden.

Volunteers assisted with solarization, an eco-friendly, sun-powered method of preparing soil for native planting by laying out tarps over a 20,000-square-foot site adjacent to Crooked River Park.

“We’re getting a good workout in,” said volunteer Kelly Sosa. “Sweaty and tired, but it’s really rewarding seeing it all come together.”

Ecology students from Central Oregon Community College were also there to help out.

“I brought my students out here for a lab to do something engaging with local ecology,” said Dr. Maureen Thompson,  Think Wild’s Beaver Works program manager. “It ended up being a great opportunity because some of these students have never been to Prineville before.”

To volunteer or support the Crooked River Native Plant Stewardship Project, contact Hannah Wuerfel at hannah@thinkwildco.org.

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Harley Coldiron

(Update: Adding video, Suspect arraigned on murder, other charges)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Prineville resident Martin Ray Terry was arraigned Monday on murder, manslaughter, attempted murder and assault after an incident Friday morning in Prineville on NW 10th Street left one person dead and two others seriously injured.

Terry, 36, who is being held without bail at the Crook County Jail, was arraigned Monday afternoon by video before Circuit Judge Wade Whiting on eight initial felony charges filed by District Attorney Kari Hathorn: second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault and four counts of unlawful use of a weapon.

He is due to return to court in a week for arraignment on an expected grand jury indictment.

Hathorn also clarified earlier information and confirmed to NewsChannel 21 that there were only two alleged victims, while the suspect was also treated at the hospital for injuries.

While visiting the scene Monday morning, KTVZ News found balloons, flowers and messages for the alleged murder victim outside their home at Grasshopper Village Apartments on NW 10th Street.

Flowers, balloons, and messages are left on the front porch of an alleged murder victim at Grasshopper Village in Prineville.

The court filing identifies the homicide victim as Robert Winter and the assault victim as Steven Hutchinson. The assault charges indicate a knife and a hammer were used in the killing and injuries.

Martin Ray Terry was arraigned Monday afternoon on murder, other charges before Crook County Circuit Judge Wade Whiting

While KTVZ News was in Prineville, families and friends of both Terry and Winter approached us. They all shared positive memories of both men and said they could not believe how this happened.

Winter and Hutchinson also were well-known by their neighbors, many telling KTVZ News that both were good people, and they were shocked to hear they were involved in a situation like this. The same neighbors said Winter leaves behind four children – and died on his birthday.

KTVZ News also spoke exclusively Monday with the mother of three of his children, who said this all could have been avoided.

“We’ve tried to get him mental health help for years, and the system failed him,” Jerrica Baker told us.

“I mean he got in trouble in 2017, and my husband stood up for him in court and said that he should have strong mental health help, instead of prison – and they put him in prison instead. And I feel like if he would have had that mental health help, this could have been avoided.”

DA Kari Hathorn provided this statement late Monday to KTVZ News:

Released by: Kari Hathorn, Crook County District Attorney

Martin Terry, DOB 4/29/1989, was arrested by the Prineville Police Department on June 28, 2025. Terry was arraigned in the Crook County Circuit Court on June 30, 2025 on charges of Murder in the Second Degree, Manslaughter in the First Degree, Attempted Murder In the Second Degree, Assault in the First Degree and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.

On June 27, 2025, at approximately 11:45 am, Prineville Police Department responded to the Grasshopper Village Apartments in Prineville, Oregon. Officers located a male, Robert Allen Winter, who was pronounced deceased inside the apartment. A second victim, Steven Hutchinson, was transported to the hospital with serious injuries prior to law enforcement’s arrival at the apartment.

Officers located and arrested the defendant, Martin Terry, inside the apartment. Terry was taken to the hospital, where he was treated for injuries.

There are no additional victims outstanding. There is no ongoing risk to the public. As the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to comment further regarding the specifics of the investigation.

The investigation is led by the Prineville Police Department. Contributing agencies include the Crook County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon State Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police Department, Crook County Medical Examiner, Oregon State Police Forensic Laboratory, Oregon State Medical Examiner, and Crook County Fire and Rescue.

—

KTVZ News earlier learned through public records that Terry’s arrest and charges come just days after he agreed to a conditional release by a Crook County Circuit Court judge for reportedly attacking a Prineville Police Officer and resisting arrest. (Hathorn said at Monday’s arraignment that Terry was released over prosecutors’ objections.)

Records show that 36-year-old Terry has a long history of crimes in Crook County, having been arrested 12 times in Oregon, three this year.

As part of Terry’s conditional release, he was required to attend a mental health and substance abuse treatment program, consume no alcohol or controlled substances and engage in no “violent, tumultuous, threatening behavior.”

FULL PRESS RELEASE FROM PRINEVILLE POLICE:

PRINEVILLE, Ore. — On June 27, 2025 at approximately 11:45 a.m., Prineville dispatch received a 911 call reporting a disturbance in the 800 block of NW 10th Street. The initial report indicated that two victims were involved in a disturbance and had significant injuries. This initial report indicated that a possible third victim was also injured. Prineville Police, Crook County Sheriff’s office, and the Oregon State Police responded. They located the two male victims who were injured. They located a third victim in the residence who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Prineville Police initially ruled this as a suspicious death pending more details.

The Major Investigations Team (MIT) responded to immediately initiate the investigation. The investigation revealed that one of the initial subjects taken to the hospital was the suspect in the death of the third victim. The Prineville Police Department has confirmed that this incident is now being investigated as a homicide.

Martin Ray Terry, age 36, was arrested and booked into the Crook County jail on June 28, 2025. Currently he is being charged with Murder in the second degree, Attempted Murder in the second degree, and Assault in the first degree. Further charges are pending a review by the Crook County District Attorney’s office. The homicide and assault victim names are not being released at this time out of respect for the family.

The Prineville Police Department would like to thank the following partners who assisted with this incident and investigation: Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police and Crime lab, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Police Department, Redmond Police Department, Crook County District Attorney’s Office, State Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Special thanks to the Crook County Fire and Rescue and the City of Prineville Public Works Department.

The investigation is ongoing and there are no further details that can be released at this time. If you have any information regarding this investigation, please contact the Prineville Police Department at 541-447-4168.

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Barney Lerten

(Update: OSP releases name, details of fatal crash)

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon State Police on Tuesday released details of a crash on U.S. Highway 20 west of Sisters Monday morning that killed a 63-year-old St. Helens man.

The single-vehicle crash was reported shortly before 9 a.m. Monday, near milepost 95, about five miles west of Sisters.

Troopers said Randolf Lee Burghart was at the wheel of a blue Subaru Outback heading east on the highway when, for unknown reasons, he left the roadway.

“The vehicle struck a guardrail, bounced off, crossed into the oncoming lane and collided with a tree,” OSP said.

Burghart, alone in the Subaru, died at the scene of the crash, which did not close the highway.

OSP said it was assisted by the Black Butte Fire Department, Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department, Black Butte Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding interview with TNT safety expert, full story, video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Fire season is already in full swing for Central Oregon. With the Alder Springs Fire and numerous other blazes throughout the area fresh in residents’ minds, the use of personal fireworks for the July 4th holiday is up for debate.

The Redmond City Council will be holding a special meeting on Tuesday afternoon to discuss a potential ban of fireworks within Redmond’s city limits.

If the council decides against a ban, or if you live in another area of Central Oregon that does not have one in place, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure you keep your risk of starting a fire as minimal as possible.

KTVZ News spoke Monday with TNT Fireworks’ national safety expert, James Fuller, who is also a former firefighter.

“Stay legal. That’s our No. 1 message to all of our communities,” Fuller told us. “Go with product that’s marked, licensed and prepared for consumers. If it doesn’t have the warning labels or instructions, set it aside. It’s probably not legal product. And if it’s not legal product, we can’t guarantee it’s safe product.”

He suggests you be prepared with a water hose or five-gallon bucket full of water if you plan to use legal fireworks in an area they are allowed. Having a fire extinguisher on hand is also a smart idea.

When it comes to used fireworks, be sure to submerge them in a bag or container full of water.

“I want you to give your fireworks a bath. Let them stay in there a minute or so. Then, put them in a trash bag and set aside for at least 30 minutes before you put it in a proper trash receptacle,” said Fuller.

When lighting fireworks, it is recommended you use a ‘fireworks punk’ — a slow-burning, smoldering stick that allows you to light the firework from a distance to protect your body. Keep in mind that even legal handheld sparklers can burn between 1,700 and 2,500 degrees, meaning their sparks can cause major damage.

You should also only light fireworks on a surface such as concrete, asphalt, or dirt, a safe distance away from any vegetation or structure. It is not a safe option to light fireworks in grass, even if wet. Use sandbags, bricks, or rocks to stabilize fireworks so they do not topple over.

If you come across a ‘dud’ firework that does not light on the first try, do not try to light it again. “If you bought that product at any one of our stores or in any reputable licensed dealership, you just keep that product. Bring it back to next year. We’ll give you a free one, no questions asked,” said Fuller. Set the firework aside, in your sight, for at least 30 minutes before storing it.

For ‘duds’ or unused fireworks, Fuller says they are a stable product that can be safely stored in your home, garage, or storage shed for later use or exchange. Fuller says to ensure they do not pose any significant risk, store them in a low-temperature area, away from anything flammable, and where they aren’t exposed to any flames, appliances, or electrical equipment that is plugged in.

Another thing Fuller wants the public to remember: Keep pets safe. If you have pets and are going to be lighting fireworks, make sure your pets are secured inside and kept in a calm environment. Do your part to keep your neighbors with pets informed — if you are going to be lighting fireworks, notify them so they can be prepared and secure their animals.

Finally, check your local restrictions on fireworks. La Pine, Sunriver, Bend and Sisters all currently have fireworks bans in place within city limits. As mentioned above, the city of Redmond may enforce a ban as well. In Oregon, fireworks are prohibited on Oregon State beaches, parks, campgrounds, and State and Federal forest lands.

If you are caught using fireworks in a prohibited area or using illegal fireworks, you may be charged with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. You can call your local law enforcement’s non-emergency number for assistance in disposing of fireworks or to check legality in your area.

Here’s what the Oregon Office of Emergency Management just shared about fireworks safety, as well as some other summertime fire safety tips:

OEM Encourages Oregonians to Celebrate the July 4 Holiday in a Fire-safe Way!

SALEM, Ore. — The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, filled with fireworks, barbecues, and outdoor fun. But with all the excitement, it’s important to prioritize fire safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone. Eighty-five percent of wildfires are started by humans—many times with fireworks and campfires.

Whether you are celebrating at home or traveling out of the area, know the latest road conditions, check if you are visiting an area near a wildfire, make sure you are signed up for Oregon emergency alerts, activate Federal Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, understand the evacuation levels, and make sure you have an emergency kit in your car—stay safe and don’t be the spark this holiday. 

Fireworks—Keep it Legal. Keep it Safe. 

Fireworks are a staple of Independence Day, but they can also be dangerous. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display organized by professionals. There are plenty of places you can see coastal displays, Portland area displays, the southern Willamette Valley, as well as other parts of Oregon. If you choose to use consumer fireworks, follow these precautions – including: 

Always check local regulations before lighting fireworks in your area. 

Never give fireworks to small children and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergencies. 

Light fireworks one at a time and never attempt to relight a dud. 

Maintain a safe distance from fireworks and never point them at people, animals, or structures. 

Remember, all fireworks are banned on public lands. This includes state and federal parks. 

Campfire and Outdoor Fire Safety—Don’t be the Spark. 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department maintains a state parks campfire/flame restrictions in page, the Oregon Department of Forestry maintains one for state lands, and the Bureau of Land management maintains a list for federal land. If your celebration includes a campfire or fire pit, follow these guidelines: 

Check if fires are allowed where you are camping.  

Keep flames small—about knee height—to prevent embers from drifting into trees or dry areas. If the wind picks up embers, put the fire out. 

Use designated fire rings—they’re placed in safe areas with buffers of at least 25 feet away from tents and vegetation. Use outdoor fireplaces and fire pits only in well-ventilated areas. 

Always have water nearby to fully extinguish the fire—douse, stir the embers, and ensure everything is wet. 

Beach fires belong on open sand—keep them away from driftwood and plants. Pour water slowly to avoid spraying hot sand. Never use sand to smother the fire—it traps heat and can cause burns later. 

Propane fire rings require the same precautions as wood fires—rules may vary by location. 

Never leave a fire unattended—many accidents happen when campers step away for just a minute. Ensure everyone, including kids, understands fire safety. 

Grilling Safety 

Backyard barbecues are a great way to celebrate, but they also pose fire hazards. Keep these tips in mind: 

Place your grill away from overhanging branches, siding, or deck railings. 

Never grill indoors and always supervise the grill while in use. 

Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill. 

Use long-handled tools designed for grilling to prevent burns. 

Additional Fire Risks 

Discarded cigarettes – a single lit cigarette tossed carelessly can spark a wildfire.

Equipment malfunctions – sparks from machinery, vehicles, or electrical failures can ignite dry vegetation.

Dragging metal – loose chains or parts dragging on the road can create sparks.

Exhaust system failures – Worn-out catalytic converters and exhaust components can emit hot carbon particles.

Brake pad wear – thin brake pads can cause metal-on-metal contact, generating fire-causing sparks. 

Low tire pressure – driving on exposed rims due to low tire pressure can throw sparks. 

Parking on dry grass – hot exhaust parts can ignite dry vegetation on contact. 

Electrical system failures – faulty wiring or damaged electrical components can lead to vehicle fires. 

Fuel system leaks – gasoline leaks can ignite from heat or sparks. 

By following the above fire safety tips and being aware of all the ways fires can spark, you can enjoy a fun and safe Fourth of July celebration. 

For more fire safety tips, visit FEMA or the U.S. Fire Administration. 

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Isabella Warren

(Update: Adding video, comments from parent, Visit Bend)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– River access in the Old Mill just got a whole lot easier. The Miller’s Landing Park project wrapped up construction last week and is now open to kayakers, swimmers and paddleboarders – just in time for a hot summer week leading up to the Fourth of July.

“It just gives another option for getting in. The water is not as crazy as it seems. And so it’s just a nice place to enter and exit and makes it more accessible for kids, even just to play in the water,” parent Kelly Fleming said Monday. “After seeing it, I’ll definitely come here over some other spots that are a little more crowded. I like multiple areas to get into the water.”

The $1.3 million project provides easier access to kayakers and paddleboarders to get in and out of the water, as well as river-goers with accessibility issues.

Miller’s Landing Park is a 4.5-acre community park and one of 16 Bend Park and Rec District-owned or managed parks along the Deschutes River. The district’s 2021 Deschutes River Access and Habitat Restoration Plan identified a high-priority project at Miller’s Landing Park to improve the existing access points and restore habitat.

Previously, river users needed to navigate the steep, rocky river bed to get into the water.

Zavier Borja, destination stewardship director for Visit Bend, said, “Having something like this redeveloped with those folks in mind is just something that’s really key to our mission. The more visitors that we have, of all types, we’re able to reinvest into really strong, cool projects like this one here.”

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