A prohibited Chinese mitten crab was found in the Willamette River near Portland, marking the second confirmed sighting of the invasive species in Oregon this year. ODFW is urging residents to report any suspected mitten crab sightings to help prevent potential environmental damage.

Oregon State Parks is seeking public input on proposed changes to reservations, fee ranges, and Special Access Pass rules as the agency works to address a projected $8 million operational shortfall. A virtual public hearing is scheduled for Dec. 15, with comments accepted through Jan. 15, 2026.

A lithium battery ignited inside a custodians’ workshop at Miller Elementary School in Bend on Sunday night, triggering the fire sprinkler system and limiting damage to the small room. Crews cleared smoke and water from the gym as the district works toward reopening the school safely.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued 10 civil penalties totaling $462,425 in October for violations involving air quality, water protection, stormwater management, and underground fuel tanks across the state.

Medford Police arrested a woman Wednesday morning who investigators believe set multiple arson fires across North Medford, including vehicle fires and a blaze at a local restaurant.

Two Klamath Falls residents were killed Wednesday in a rollover crash on Highway 140E after a passing attempt triggered a collision, according to Oregon State Police.

Medford Police recovered more than $141,000 in stolen radio equipment and arrested a suspect following two burglaries at Medford Fire Department storage facilities. Detectives say the investigation also cleared several additional theft cases throughout Jackson County.

The man injured in a Nov. 23 officer-involved shooting with Medford Police has been released from the hospital and lodged in the Jackson County Jail. Shane Wesley Smith, 30, of Medford, is facing multiple charges as the case heads to a Jackson County Grand Jury for review.

ODOT is urging travelers to prepare for heavy holiday traffic, winter weather, and potential delays as Oregonians hit the roads for Thanksgiving week. Crews will be working throughout the holiday to keep highways clear, but drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, check conditions, and travel with caution.

A wrong-way crash on I-5 near Grants Pass early Saturday left one person dead and two injured, according to Oregon State Police. Northbound traffic was impacted for about four hours during the investigation.

Governor Tina Kotek has declared a statewide state of emergency following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline, which supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon’s transportation fuel. While officials say current fuel supplies remain adequate, the order activates emergency plans and gives the state flexibility to keep fuel moving if conditions change.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has issued several updates ahead of the holiday weekend, including two statewide free fishing days, expanded public access on the restored Klamath River, and a coastwide delay to the commercial Dungeness crab season. Recreational crabbing and clamming remain open in many areas, while winter weather may affect river site access.

Governor Tina Kotek has announced that philanthropic partners in the Oregon Disaster Funders Network have matched the state’s $6 million investment in hunger relief, identifying more than $6.4 million to support food banks, pantries, and community organizations statewide. The partnership expands resources identified through the Governor’s emergency food order.

Medford Police say an early morning crisis call involving an armed suicidal subject led to an officer-involved shooting on Mallard Lane. The individual is in stable condition, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is now overseeing the investigation.

AAA projects a record 81.8 million people will travel for Thanksgiving this year, with the majority hitting the road. Concerns over recent flight cancellations may drive even more travelers to switch from air to car trips. AAA and transportation experts are urging early departures and caution on the roads.

Oregon has enacted emergency rules to prevent the spread of Equine Herpes Virus following outbreaks linked to events in Texas and Oklahoma. In response, the Klamath County Fairgrounds has issued a full suspension of all equine use while awaiting further guidance from state officials.

A multi-agency law enforcement sweep in Shasta County led to 14 arrests as officers conducted parole compliance checks at 22 locations. The Nov. 14 operation, known as Operation Shasta Shield, focused on high-risk supervised individuals, including registered sex offenders.

TriMet has eliminated 68 administrative positions and reduced internal spending by $17.7 million as part of a long-term plan to close a projected $300 million budget shortfall. The agency says more service cuts and additional revenue measures will be needed through 2028.

Students and staff at Chiloquin Junior/Senior High School gathered for a traditional salmon bake and round dance as part of a day dedicated to celebrating Native American Heritage Month. Hosted in partnership with the Klamath Tribes and community organizations, the event highlighted cultural traditions, salmon’s ecological and spiritual importance, and the value of connecting students with their Indigenous heritage.

Transportation agencies across the region are preparing for winter weather and urging the public to plan ahead. Crews are gearing up for snow and ice while reminding travelers to check conditions, carry chains, and use caution on the roads.