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.
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 3 Evacuations Issued as Wrights Spring Fire Surges to 8,722 Acres
The Wrights Spring Fire has surged to approximately 8,722 acres east of Chiloquin as Level 3 “GO NOW” evacuations expand around the incident. Oregon has invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, bringing additional structural firefighting resources to Klamath County.
Salt Creek Falls Reopens After Major Visitor Upgrades Along Highway 58
Salt Creek Falls has reopened along Highway 58 after months of construction. New safety railings, a rebuilt restroom, and other improvements give travelers and hikers a safer, more reliable way to experience Oregon’s second-highest single-drop waterfall.
Woodrat Fire 100% Lined Overnight, Mapped at 282 Acres
Firefighters have completed line around 100% of the Woodrat Mountain Fire near Ruch. Updated infrared mapping places the fire at 282 acres, with 60% of the perimeter hose lined as crews continue securing the fire through steep terrain and dense timber.
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.
Tuna Runs Strong as Inland Lakes Warm
Albacore fishing is strong out of Gold Beach and Brookings, while Lost Creek, Applegate, and Howard Prairie remain productive inland. This week’s report also covers Klamath redband restrictions, low water access, algae concerns, and wildlife viewing.
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.
Botulism Returns to Tule Lake as Lower Klamath Wetlands Dry
Thousands of migratory birds have died at Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge as avian botulism spreads through warm, stagnant wetlands. Bird Alliance of Oregon is seeking emergency water, while local leaders, irrigators, and the Klamath Tribes debate how to respond without worsening risks elsewhere in the Basin.
Fire Danger Peaks Across Southern Oregon as I-5 Fire Reaches 23% Containment
Fire danger remains high to extreme across Southern Oregon as crews increase containment on the 100-acre I-5 MM 57 NB Fire near Grants Pass to 23%. Evacuations have eased to Level 1, both northbound lanes are open, and firefighters continue mop-up under Red Flag conditions.
Southern Oregon Lawmakers Join Push to Protect Hunting, Fishing and Farming Rights
Oregon Republican leaders are proposing a constitutional amendment protecting the right to hunt, fish, gather wild foods, and raise animals or crops. If lawmakers approve the proposal during the 2027 session, it could go before Oregon voters in November 2028.
Wildfire Damage or Evacuation? 4 Steps That Can Help Oregonians Recover
Wildfire evacuations and damage can create unexpected costs and difficult insurance decisions. Oregon regulators recommend four practical steps: save receipts, check coverage before filing a claim, document belongings, and confirm comprehensive auto coverage.
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.