Category: ktvz-local-news

Harley Coldiron

BEND, ORE. (KTVZ) — Bend’s first observance of Memorial Day began at 7AM, as the Bend Heroes Foundation and volunteers honored Bend’s 112 war dead with a moment of silence and by installing flags bearing veterans’ names at Bend Heroes Memorial in Brooks Park, along Veterans Memorial Bridge,  and downtown Bend.  

Boy Scout Troop 25 had the honor of leading the flag installations, with former Scoutmaster Kelly Reynolds and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Atticus Zmach leading the volunteers. 

Proclamations issued by President Trump and Governor Kotek were read.  

Foundation Chairman Dick Tobiason updated participants on the recently completed Oregon Gold Star Families Memorial Highway across Oregon on the 477 mile US Hwy 30 between Astoria and the Oregon – Idaho border.  That highway honors the families of about 6,000 wartime veterans from Oregon who made the ultimate sacrifice during war from WWI to the present, including Bend’s 112. The Gold Star highway on  US Hwy 30 is the longest highway in Oregon and the 9th  and final veterans highway across Oregon initiated by the Foundation. Photos of Gold Star Family members and highway signs will be shown. 

Tobiason also discussed the National Medal of Honor Highway Act, created by Congress and President Biden last December at his request. That 3,365-mile highway across the USA on US Hwy 20 honors all 3,528 Medal of Honor recipients from all 50 states including 29 recipients connected with Oregon and had its origin in Oregon eight years ago.

The National Medal of Honor Highway is the longest highway in our nation. Tobiason kept his promise to WWII Medal of Honor recipient Bob Maxwell, a director of Bend Heroes Foundation, to honor our nation’s Medal of Honor recipients with the coast-to-coast highway. The original Act signed by Congress and President Biden and a highway map was displayed at 7:00 am. 

Finally, a wreath was placed by Gold Star Families at the granite monument listing the 112 war dead names at Bend Heroes Memorial before 250 flags were installed. 

The Foundation’s Bend Parade of Flags program began 20 years ago, with BSA Troop 25 as the first youth group to be involved. 

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Gregory Deffenbaugh

(Update: Adding video)

UPDATE: Oregon State Police have released new information on Friday’s crash, including the names of the people involved. Below is the press release provided by State Troopers.

Deschutes County, Ore. 25 May 2025- On Friday, May 23, 2025, at 2:22 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 164, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a 2003 Ford Taurus, operated by Marvin Lee Cudd Jr. (76) of Sunriver, was stopped on the northbound shoulder of Highway 97 facing westbound, perpendicular to the roadway. The Ford began to cross the highway and was struck by a northbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Joshua Dale Musick (43) of Christmas Valley, on the driverside door.

The operator of the Ford (Cudd) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Musick) suffered minor injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by LaPine Fire, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, and ODOT.

UPDATE: The scene has been cleared by first responders and the roadway is open in both directions.

La Pine, Ore. – A crash has closed parts of U.S. Highway 97 just north of La Pine, impacting traffic in both directions. As of now, all southbound lanes are closed, while northbound traffic is reduced to a single lane.

Emergency crews are on the scene, and drivers are advised to use caution and expect delays in the area. The Oregon Department of Transportation is assisting with traffic management and cleanup efforts.

For the latest updates, viewers can check the KTVZ app, which provides real-time information through ODOT’s TripCheck system.

Please avoid the area if possible and seek alternate routes.

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KTVZ News Team

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Bowman Museum’s Belknap Exhibit Center is showcasing a new exhibit called “History of Crook County Fire and Rescue.”

Through May 31st, visitors can explore powerful stories, historic artifacts, and courageous moments that have shaped the county’s fire and rescue services.

From vintage gear to first-hand accounts of heroic rescues, the exhibit honors the brave men and women who have protected Crook County for generations.

The Belknap Exhibit Center in Prineville is open Tuesday through Friday, as well as the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month.

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Triton Notary

BEND, Ore. –(KTVZ)– With summer almost here and the weather getting warmer the need for caution dealing with fires is growing. As such. fire restrictions are changing June 1st. Starting then, open fires are prohibited, including campfires, except in designated areas. Chainsaw use is also prohibited between the hours of 1 and 8 p.m. Motorized vehicles are prohibited from unimproved roads. That includes all terrain vehicles as well. To see the whole list of fire restrictions go to the Deschutes County website.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — House Bill 2251, better known as the ‘Cell Phone Bill’, was hotly debated amongst citizens before it went to the Senate for approval. The bill was sponsored by Bend State Representative, Emerson Levy; it proposed that school districts adopt a policy prohibiting students’ use of cell phones and other personal devices while in school. 

The bill passed in the House with bipartisan support on April 15th, fueling supporters’ optimism. But, when it went to the Senate on Thursday, it failed. 

Our ‘Problem Solvers’ story on the bill revealed public opinion was split. Many supporters of the ban claim cell phones can cause academic interference and negative mental health effects.

“We actually did a survey of over 1000 families in Bend La Pine last year about tech use in schools and phones specifically, and over 93% of respondents supported phone free schools,” said Ami Formica, parent and founder of Well Wired. 

Those opposed raised concern about communication during emergencies and government overreach in regard to student responsibility. Tiffany Johnson, a parent who responded to KTVZ’s poll on social media, said in-part, “With all the crazy situations that have happened across the nation and locally, I 100% want my kids to have access to call home just in case…”

Representative Levy expressed her disappointment about the bill’s failure in a social media post, simply saying, “A year of work and the cell phone bill died in Senate education today.” KTVZ reached out to Levy for further comment and received the following statement: 

“I strongly believe this legislation would have been one of the most impactful actions we could take to support youth mental health—especially among young women, who are disproportionately affected by cyberbullying and the pressures of social media. While I am disappointed it did not move forward this session, I remain committed to the effort and look forward to working with the governor on potential next steps.”

You may not have seen the end of the bill just yet, though… as suggested in Levy’s statement, Governor Kotek is said to share Levy’s sentiment. Kotek is said to be actively exploring options in taking executive action to keep the concept alive.

We will be monitoring the situation and will keep you informed of any updates.

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Jillian Fortner

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Cascade Relay’s Big Butte Challenge is back.

Hikers have from Memorial Day weekend to October 1st to hike 10 local buttes. After each climb, you can head to a local brewery and enjoy a free pint on the house.

Jillian Fortner was live at Bend Brewing Co. for the Big Butte Challenge launch party.

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Triton Notary

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ)– If you are wondering what musical acts will be making their way to Central Oregon for this year’s Deschutes County fair, wait no longer. Below is a full list of the 2025 headliners.

2025 Headliner Lineup

Wednesday, July 30 – Brothers OsborneGrammy-winning country duo Brothers Osborne will kick off the series with their signature blend of soulful harmonies and powerful performances. Recognized with a Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, Brothers Osborne has also claimed six Country Music Association Awards, including Vocal Duo of the Year, and four Academy of Country Music Awards. Fans can look forward to hits like “Stay a Little Longer,” “It Ain’t My Fault,” and “Skeletons.”

Thursday, July 31 – AWOLNATIONKnown for their electrifying alternative rock sound, AWOLNATION takes the stage on Thursday. Fronted by Aaron Bruno, the band achieved global success with their diamond-certified single “Sail,” which has sold over 10 million units. Their music has earned nominations for the Teen Choice Awards and the iHeartRadio Music Awards, and they continue to captivate audiences with hits like “Run,” and “The Best.”

Friday, August 1 – DiploInternationally renowned DJ and producer Diplo brings his genre-blending style to the fair. With three Grammy Awards to his name, including wins for Best Dance Recording and Best Dance/Electronic Album, Diplo is celebrated for his versatility. In addition to his EDM hits, he has successfully ventured into country music with collaborations under his Thomas Wesley moniker, working with stars like Morgan Wallen and Thomas Rhett. Fans can expect an energetic set featuring a mix of his iconic tracks like “Heartless,” “Wish,” and “Don’t Forget My Love.”

Saturday, August 2 – TygaMulti-platinum hip-hop artist Tyga is set to ignite the stage on Saturday night. Known for his West Coast sound and infectious energy, Tyga’s accolades include a Grammy nomination for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration and a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Reggaeton Performance. With hit singles like “Taste,” “Rack City,” and “Loco Contigo,” Tyga’s performance is sure to be a highlight of the concert series.

Sunday, August 3 – La Original Banda El LimónClosing the concert series, La Original Banda El Limón brings their iconic regional Mexican sound to the fair, celebrating Central Oregon’s diverse cultural heritage. With a career spanning over five decades, the band has earned two Latin Grammy Awards and a Grammy nomination for Best Banda Album. Known for timeless hits like “El Mejor Perfume” and “Qué Se Te Olvidó,” their performance will be a highlight of the fair’s Cultural Celebration Day, which showcases the music, dance, and cuisine of the region’s diverse communities.

Admission & Details

All concerts are FREE with paid fair admission, thanks to the generous support of Kendall Toyota of Bend. DJ Grant Fisher will take the stage at 7:15 PM for the pre-show party nightly, and will return for the post-show party immediately after each main performance.

Once again, all shows remain FREE with paid Fair admission, but for those looking for an elevated experience, a limited number of special VIP tickets are available for each show, starting as low as $10, plus fair admission. These VIP tickets offer premium viewing areas and an unforgettable concert experience.

Early arrival is recommended as general seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information on the fair schedule, attractions, ticketing, and to purchase VIP tickets, please visit www.deschutesfair.com.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement. Mark your calendar for Thursday, May 22, and help us celebrate the Five Best Days of Summer at the Bi-Mart Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo presented by Indian Head Casino, taking place from July 30 to August 3, 2025.

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Kade Linville

CANYON VILLAGE, Wyo. (KTVZ) – 67-year-old Bend resident David Tyler Regnier was convicted by a federal jury on May 21st for assaulting a federal employee with a dangerous weapon.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, on September 18, 2024, two unnamed Yellowstone National Park employees were directing construction traffic near Canyon Junction north of the national park. While the two park employees were controlling the flow of traffic, one of the park workers noticed a Jeep approaching the intersection and driving the wrong way down the road. The man, identified as Regnier, was driving on the inside lane attempting to bypass the traffic. 

The two park employees brought the vehicle to a stop. The first park employee told Regnier that he could not proceed and needed to back up. The second stood in the way of the Jeep with a stop sign. Regnier accelerated, driving into the employee and physically pushing him backwards. The employee jumped out of the Jeep’s path after it struck him.

Park officers responded to the incident and launched an investigation to locate Regnier. Regnier was later stopped by Yellowstone National Park Service law enforcement officers and arrested.

The incident has now been deemed as assault by the courts. Sentencing has been set for August 7, 2025. Regnier faces up to 20 years in federal prison with three years of supervised release along with paying up to a $250,000 fine with an additional $100 special assessment.

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Kade Linville

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – There’s a new garden to check out this memorial day weekend, Bends Orchard park has now planted a hummingbird habitat thanks to the collaboration of Pollinator Pathway Bend, East Cascades Bird Alliance, and Wild Birds Unlimited.

“This garden is more than a beautiful space—it’s a living example of how even small residential gardens can support wildlife when we choose native plants,” said Pollinator Pathways President Gwen Bartonek. 

Bartonek designed the park with help and input from Lisa Sanco and Barb Rumer. The garden uses plants native to the high desert, and is designed to inspire visitors to use native plants in their own yards and gardens. The Orchard Park garden’s plants are sourced locally from Wintercreek Nursery, Great Basin Nursery along with community member Barb Rumer’s personal garden.

The initiative to use local plants to promote the health of native hummingbirds and other pollinator species. Other parks with successful pollinator habitats include Al Moody Park, the Bond/Wall Triangle, Brooks Park and Franklin’s Corner

“We hope that increased awareness of our cause will inspire members of our community to plant native wildflowers in their own gardens and help grow the pollinator pathway” said Barnotek. You can visit the Pollinator Pathways website to learn more about future gardens, and how you can get involved.

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Triton Notary

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — We have much more information for you from the sister’s story we first told you about last night. A Sisters man is under arrest in a guns-drawn traffic stop after he allegedly hit another man with his car. We spoke on Thursday with the man who was allegedly hit.

It started just before 11 a.m. Wednesday in Sisters. Brian Owen says he was walking on the sidewalk along Highway 20 when he heard someone yelling at him from across the street. He could not understand what the person was saying, but the next thing he knew, the man drove his car across the oncoming lane of traffic and headed straight toward him.

Owen says he was flipped over the front of the car and his back smashed the driver’s side mirror. Despite being hit by the car, Brian says he only has some cuts and bruises. He’s left with more questions than injuries.

Owen told KTVZ News: “I would probably ask him like, why? What came about him? What did I do to him to deserve to be ran over? Like what came across his mind to just decide to run somebody over for no reason.”

Eyewitnesses saw the man drive off in a gold-colored sedan. Well, a short time later, sheriff’s deputies were called to the Mainline gas station after a report of a man brandishing a knife during a disagreement. When police got there, they saw the same gold-colored sedan from earlier. The man tried to drive away but was stopped and taken into custody. Neither of these alleged victims had ever met this man before.

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