Southern Oregon & Northern California News
Latest local news from Southern Oregon and Northern California, covering Medford, Ashland, Grants Pass, Klamath Falls, Jackson County, Josephine County, Klamath County, Siskiyou County, Del Norte County, and communities throughout the region.
Jackson County Fire Districts Expand Services Without Raising Taxes
Jackson County Fire Districts 3 and 5 have signed an expanded agreement to share personnel, equipment, and emergency operations beginning in 2027. The partnership will increase staffing at District 5 stations while maintaining separate tax districts and governance.
Woman Rescued From Domestic Well After Two Hours in Water
A woman was rescued after falling about 20 feet into a domestic well and spending roughly two hours in 12 feet of standing water. Jackson County Fire District 3 and Central Point police brought her to the surface in about 30 to 35 minutes.
New Regional Emergency Radio System Goes Live Across Jackson County
Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon has completed the transition to a new regional public safety radio system serving Jackson County and surrounding areas. The multi-year project includes 20 new or upgraded radio sites and nearly 1,800 mobile and portable radios, replacing aging infrastructure that included components more than 30 years old.
Amazon Delivery Contractor to Close Central Point Operation, 170 Jobs Affected (UPDATED)
Rainforest Routes LLC plans to permanently close its Central Point delivery operation at Amazon’s WOR1 station, eliminating 170 jobs on Dec. 7. The closure affects the contractor, not necessarily Amazon’s recently built Central Point delivery facility, where other delivery partners also operate.
White City Man Dies After Becoming Unresponsive During JCSO Arrest
A 39-year-old White City man died Tuesday night after becoming unresponsive during a Jackson County sheriff’s DUII arrest near Table Rock Road and Orr Drive. Medford Police is leading the outside investigation, while autopsy and toxicology results remain pending.
Jackson County Fair Opens Tuesday in Central Point
The Jackson County Fair opens Tuesday for six days of concerts, carnival rides, bull riding, livestock competitions, exhibits and family entertainment at The Expo in Central Point. Opening-day admission is $2.50, while Sunday admission is free for everyone.
Central Point Woman Dies After Parking Lot Crash in Phoenix
An 81-year-old Central Point woman died Wednesday evening after she was struck by a vehicle in a Phoenix business parking lot. Police said bystanders and first responders attempted life-saving measures, and the driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Elder Mistreatment Report Leads to Animal Neglect Case in Central Point
A Central Point elder mistreatment investigation has led to animal abuse and neglect charges after police say more than 60 cats were found inside a Valley Oak Boulevard home, including several that were deceased. Investigators said hazardous conditions required officers and animal control staff to wear protective suits and respirators.
Jackson County Fair Just Around the Corner
Fair season is getting closer in the Rogue Valley. The 2026 Jackson County Fair returns July 14–19 at The Expo in Central Point with opening night bull riding, four nights of headline entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors and the 4-H and FFA youth activities that remain the heart of the county fair tradition.
Blackwell Fire Prompts Evacuations
Evacuation levels will remain in place overnight for the Blackwell Road fire near rural Central Point, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Forward progression of the grassfire has been stopped, but firefighters remain active in the area, with overnight roadblocks continuing near Tolo Road, Nellis Road and Merita Terrace.
Boomfest 2026 to Mark Final Fireworks Show at Jackson County Expo
The City of Central Point and the Jackson County Expo have announced that Boomfest 2026 will be the final Independence Day fireworks celebration held at the Expo grounds, citing increased development and rising wildfire risk in the area.
Task Force Serves Search Warrant in Child Exploitation Case
A joint child exploitation task force served a search warrant in rural Central Point after CSAM images were traced to a residence. Investigators seized digital devices, and the case remains under active investigation.
Central Point Man Arrested in Child Sex Abuse Case
A Central Point man was arrested late Tuesday night after deputies say he sexually abused a 13-year-old girl he had met on Snapchat. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office says the suspect attempted to flee but was stopped and taken into custody.