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.
Flock Cameras Go Dark in Josephine County
The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has ended its contract with Flock Safety and deactivated all 10 automated license plate reader cameras. Sheriff Dave Daniel cited public privacy concerns, potential Fourth Amendment implications, and recent vandalism.
Motorcyclist Killed in High Speed Crash on US 101 Near Cape Ferrelo
A 36 year old motorcyclist from Sisters was killed Sunday in a three vehicle crash on US 101 near Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint in Curry County. OSP says the motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed before striking a turning SUV.
SWAT Standoff Ends Two-Week Manhunt in Grants Pass
A man wanted following an alleged carjacking, assault, and dangerous pursuit through Grants Pass was arrested Tuesday after barricading himself inside an RV near Cloverlawn. Police say citizen reports helped authorities locate him nearly two weeks after the July 30 incidents.
Mother, Three Children Killed in Eagle Point RV Fire
A mother and three children younger than 10 were killed Sunday in an RV fire in rural Eagle Point. One other family member escaped with minor injuries, and investigators currently believe the fire was a non-criminal accident.
Body Recovered from Rogue River Believed to Be Missing Rafter
A body recovered from the Wild and Scenic section of the Rogue River is believed to be that of 65-year-old Reid Litwack, who disappeared after a rafting accident at Wildcat Rapid. Final identification remains pending.
Three Killed in Separate Highway Crashes in Lake and Curry Counties
Three people were killed and another seriously injured in two separate crashes reported by Oregon State Police in Lake and Curry counties. The crashes occurred on Highway 140 in Lake County and Highway 101 near Langlois.
Evacuations Issued as Crescent Butte Fire Burns Near Gilchrist (UPDATED)
A new wildfire near Crescent and Gilchrist is sending a large smoke column over northern Klamath County and has prompted Level 2 and Level 1 evacuation notices. A temporary evacuation point has been established at La Pine High School.
Dozer Operator Killed While Fighting Wrights Spring Fire
A 47-year-old Klamath Falls man was killed while operating a bulldozer during firefighting operations on the Wrights Spring Fire. Officials say rapid fire growth cut off Jason Ensign’s escape route as crews worked near Yahwee Plateau.
Moenaert Sentenced to 50 Years for Sexually Abusing Two Children
Zach Patrick Moenaert was sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to six felony sex crimes involving two children. Prosecutors said he abused the children over about six years and created numerous recordings documenting the abuse.
Level 1 Evacuations Issued as Wrights Spring Fire Reaches 2,224 Acres
Level 1 Be Ready evacuation notices are in effect south of Sprague River Road as the Wrights Spring Fire reaches 2,224 acres. About 180 personnel are assigned, and Northwest Team 8 will assume command Friday. No road or highway closures are in effect.
Woodrat Fire Reaches 300 Acres, 50% Lined Near Ruch
The Woodrat Fire has grown to approximately 300 acres and is 50% lined near Ruch. Six hand crews, four dozers, engines, water tenders, and falling modules are taking over overnight operations as firefighters work to limit movement toward Sterling Creek Road.
Search Continues for Missing Grants Pass Man Last Seen on Highway 238
Surveillance footage shows missing Grants Pass man David Wright buying water in Murphy before riding his white bicycle outbound on Highway 238 toward Hidden Valley Market. Detectives, search crews, and community members have searched surrounding areas, but his whereabouts remain unknown.
Eight Suspects Arrested in Jackson County Child Exploitation Sweep
Eight local suspects were arrested during a coordinated child exploitation operation involving separate investigations across Southern Oregon. Seven were taken into custody in Jackson County, while a Talent suspect was arrested in Washington. Together, they face 71 felony counts of encouraging child sexual abuse.
Wrights Spring Fire Grows to 2,000 Acres as Crews Make Overnight Progress
The Wrights Spring Fire has grown to approximately 2,000 acres south of Sprague River and east of Chiloquin. Firefighters strengthened lines along the east flank overnight, while heavy timber, dense vegetation, and rugged terrain continue to challenge crews.
Wrights Spring Fire Grows to 1,200 Acres East of Modoc Point
The Wrights Spring Fire has grown to approximately 1,200 acres east of Modoc Point in Klamath County. About 100 firefighters are working through the night, with more resources en route. No evacuations or formal closures are in effect, but the public should avoid nearby forest roads.
Juvenile Detained After Grass Fire Near Highway 62 in White City
A juvenile was detained after motorists reported a grass fire near Highway 62 in White City. Firefighters contained the 40 by 40 foot burn before it could spread, while deputies recovered matches and referred the case for possible charges, including arson.
Truck Driver’s Quick Action Prevents Fire From Spreading Near School
A garbage truck driver helped prevent a larger fire near Manzanita Elementary School by dumping a burning load in an open parking lot. Rural Metro Fire and ODF extinguished the debris during Red Flag conditions.
Driver Killed, Passenger Seriously Injured After Car Strikes Elk on Highway 234
A Grants Pass man was killed and his passenger seriously injured after their car struck a cow elk on Highway 234 near Antioch Road early Saturday. The vehicle continued off the roadway and hit a tree.
Driver Destroys Emigrant Lake Entrance Booth, Flees Scene (UPDATED)
A driver leaving Emigrant Lake Park struck and destroyed the entrance booth at high speed on July 30, then fled before deputies tracked them down. With the booth gone, Jackson County Parks is asking visitors to use the Pay by Phone system or buy an annual pass.
Industrial Fire Restrictions Tighten Across Southern Oregon
Industrial fire restrictions are increasing across Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and Lake counties as extreme heat, dry fuels, low humidity, and gusty winds raise the risk of new fire starts and rapid growth.