Charges Recommended After Dorris Paraquat Spill
CHP has recommended possible charges after a paraquat spill in Dorris shut down Highway 97 and triggered a shelter-in-place order. Investigators say the tank came loose from a truck headed to a spraying job in the Shasta Valley.
Ross Ragland Announces Packed May Lineup
The Ross Ragland Theater has announced a full May lineup featuring Klamath Chorale, Blippi, the Klamath Symphony, Oregon Ballet Theatre, and a summer camp fundraiser supporting local youth programs.
United Way Executive Director Announces Retirement
United Way of the Klamath Basin Executive Director Christine Hess has announced her retirement after nearly four years of service. The nonprofit says it will begin an immediate search for new leadership as it continues programs supporting health, education, housing, and financial stability across the region.
Three Rescued From Two-Story House Fire in Wilderville
Three people were rescued from a two-story house fire in Wilderville after a kitchen blaze trapped occupants upstairs. Firefighters used ladders to reach second-floor windows, while two people were taken to the hospital and several pets were also saved.
Semi Truck Fire Triggers Explosions on I-5 Near Sunny Valley
A semi truck carrying hazardous cargo caught fire on I-5 near Sunny Valley, triggering explosions and spreading into nearby vegetation. Fire crews from multiple agencies responded, and one firefighter was treated for smoke exposure as crews worked to contain the blaze and prevent environmental impact.
Lake County DA Resigns, Citing Severe Funding Crisis
Lake County District Attorney Paul Charas is resigning just over a year into his term, saying chronic underfunding has made it increasingly difficult to prosecute cases. According to Oregon Public Broadcasting, Charas cited staffing shortages, minimal trial resources, and the strain of serving as the county’s only prosecutor.
SOU Raises Tuition as Budget Challenges Continue
Southern Oregon University will increase tuition and fees by nearly 5% next year for in-state undergraduate students, the maximum allowed without additional state approval. According to reporting by Jefferson Public Radio, university leaders say tuition hikes alone will not solve broader financial challenges tied to enrollment declines, rising costs, and limited public funding.
Search Warrant Served in Ashland Child Exploitation Investigation
Investigators served a search warrant in Ashland after identifying child sexual abuse material linked to a residence. Digital evidence was seized, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Prospect Man Arrested on Child Sex Crime Charges
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested a Prospect man on five child sex crime charges, including rape and sexual abuse. The investigation remains ongoing.
Fire Crews Quickly Contain Duplex Fire
Klamath County Fire District #1 crews quickly contained a duplex fire in the Roosevelt area, preventing injuries and likely avoiding displacement of residents. The incident also marked a first working fire for two members of the department.
Bentz Pushes for Local Voice in Water Decisions
A new federal bill introduced by Congressman Cliff Bentz aims to give local water users a stronger voice in decisions that impact water access across the West. The legislation focuses on increasing transparency and participation during Endangered Species Act consultations that often influence agricultural and community water supplies.
Multi-Agency Drug Bust Seizes Meth, Cocaine, Guns, and Cash
A six-week drug investigation led to multiple arrests and the seizure of methamphetamine, cocaine, firearms, and more than $227,000 in cash across Southern Oregon and Northern California.
Crash Sparks Vehicle Fire After Attempted Firewood Theft
A vehicle caught fire after crashing on Robertson Bridge Road near Merlin Tuesday night. Officials say the driver had attempted to leave the area with firewood from private property before the crash occurred.
Vehicle Found After Rollover Crash Near Cave Junction
Emergency crews responded to a rollover crash near Cave Junction but found no occupants at the scene after searching the vehicle and surrounding area. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon on Holland Loop Road.
North Medford Gym Rebuild Moves Forward
Construction is underway on the new North Medford High School gym, with early work completed and major structural progress expected by the start of the next school year. The rebuild follows the collapse of the original facility and aims for full completion by late 2027.
Child Exploitation Investigation Prompts Search Warrant in Eagle Point
A child exploitation investigation in Eagle Point led to a search warrant at a residence after a tip indicated illegal material had been uploaded. Investigators seized digital devices and continue to examine evidence as the multi-agency case remains active.
GP Staffer Arrested in Sex Abuse Case
A Grants Pass school support staff member has been arrested following a grand jury indictment in a sex abuse investigation involving four identified victims. Oregon State Police say the case spans multiple years and includes six counts of sexual abuse in the first degree.
Klamath Falls Schools, Classified Union Reach Tentative Agreement
Klamath Falls City Schools and its classified employees union have reached a tentative agreement following mediated negotiations, with both sides highlighting a collaborative process focused on supporting staff and students. The agreement remains subject to union ratification and school board approval.
Barricaded Suspect Taken Into Custody After Jacksonville Standoff
A barricaded suspect was taken into custody in Jacksonville following a domestic assault involving a knife that left one person injured. The incident prompted a large multi-agency response, including a shelter-in-place alert, specialized resources, and SWAT activation before the situation was resolved without further incident.
ATRIO Health Plans Placed Under State Supervision
ATRIO Health Plans has been placed under state supervision by Oregon regulators due to financial concerns, including operating losses and unpaid provider claims. The action affects more than 35,000 Medicare Advantage enrollees across multiple counties, including parts of Southern Oregon.