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.
Klamath Falls to Dedicate Park Honoring John Bellon
Klamath Falls will dedicate a new downtown park in memory of John Bellon, a longtime city employee who spent more than 30 years supporting local parks, trails, and urban forestry. The October 24 ceremony at 39 Main Street will include the unveiling of a large elk statue. The park remains under construction and is not yet open.
West Fork Evans Creek Fire reaches 48% containment as mop-up deepens
Containment on the West Fork Evans Creek Fire has increased to 48% as firefighters continue working deeper into the 283-acre burn area near Sams Valley. Crews are now pushing mop-up operations toward 150 feet from the perimeter while locating remaining heat, removing hazardous trees, and navigating steep, rocky terrain.
Silver Rail Shooting: BPD Offers New Details as Investigation Continues
Bend Police have confirmed that four adults and five children were inside the classroom during the October 15 shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School. As investigators prepare to return the building to the school district, families are recovering belongings, and officials are preparing for students to return to classes Wednesday.
Klamath Falls Structure Fire Complicated by Downed Power Line
A downed power line complicated firefighting efforts at a residence on Morningside Lane in Klamath Falls early Sunday, October 18. Klamath County Fire District 1 and Kingsley Field firefighters worked together to contain the blaze. No firefighter injuries were reported, and the cause remains under investigation.
EDITORIAL: Why JDN Reports the Way We Do
Jefferson Daily News Publisher Brian Gailey explains the standards behind JDN’s reporting, including verification before speed, political neutrality, respect for privacy, editorial restraint, and why earning readers’ trust matters more than being first.
281-acre West Fork Evans Creek Fire 95% lined near Sams Valley
Firefighters have pushed the 281-acre West Fork Evans Creek Fire near Sams Valley to 95% lined and 15% contained after aggressive overnight work. Crews are expanding mop-up operations, reinforcing firelines ahead of stronger winds, and continuing a substantial ground and air response in northern Jackson County.