UPDATE: The victim in Friday’s homicide has been identified as Savannah Gideon, age 32, from Portland. The suspect in this case, Christopher Fisher, age 42, is also from Portland. 

Based on initial information, investigators do not believe this was a random shooting. 

Ms. Gideon’s family has been notified of her death, and they are asking for privacy from the media.

If you saw or heard anything Friday evening that may be relevant to the investigation and you have not already given a statement to police, please email tips@tigard-or.gov. 

###

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (8 September 2026) – On Saturday, September 5, 2026, at approximately 8:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 200 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Honda two-door sedan, operated Elias Keyin Sorenson (21) of Eugene, was traveling northbound on Highway 97 when, for unknown reasons, it crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a white Volvo semi-truck hauling a 53-foot trailer. The Volvo was operated by Jose Luis Sotelo-Monge (64) of Tulare, CA.

The operator of the Honda (Sorenson) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the Volvo (Sotelo-Monge) sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. 

Highway 97 was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Chemult Rural Fire Protection District, Crescent Fire District, and Oregon Department of Transportation.     

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Gresham, Ore.— The suspect in a Gresham homicide has been arrested.  On September 7^th, Portland Police Bureau officers assigned to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office Transit Police conducted a traffic stop in east Portland. They identified one of the occupants of the vehicle as 28-year-old Marcell Trotter. 

Trotter was wanted for the murder of 25-year-old D’Angelo Adams.  Adams was killed June 29^th, 2026, at the Rockwood Village Apartments, 783 SE 185^th Ave in Gresham.  The East County Major Crimes Team is leading the investigation.  Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact Detective Hibbs at isaac.hibbs@greshamoregon.gov or Detective Pick at justin.pick@greshamoregon.gov. 

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank our partners with the Portland Police Bureau and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.  

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9. An Executive Session is scheduled immediately following the board meeting. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel. 

The board’s business agenda includes:

• Fire season update
• Agency Request Budget 2027-29
• Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan Performance Measures

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

The Executive Session will be closed to the public, except for members of the press who are permitted to attend by law. This Executive Session is held pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2)(f) to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection as well as pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(h) to consult with legal counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed.

Signing up for live testimony is required. Instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Learn more about the board.

Case: 24CR59385                                                                                                             September 3, 2026

Portland, OR - Eric Douglas Alexander, 43-years-old, will spend 20 years and 10 months in prison for starting a fire that did significant damage at a Portland area home, in an attempt to kill a family they believed was connected to an ex-girlfriend.

The father discovered the fire in the early morning hours and got his family out safely.

Alexander pleaded guilty to the following charges on March 3, 2026, and the court accepted guilty pleas for all 19 counts:

Five counts of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree;

Four counts of Arson in the First Degree;

Criminal Mischief in the First Degree;

Two counts of Stalking;

Two counts of Telephonic Harassment;

Menacing Constituting Domestic Violence;

Four counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person.

Multnomah County Deputy District Attorney Mackenzie Ludwig prosecuted the case for the state.

After the sentencing on September 3, 2026 by Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Eric Dahlin, Ludwig said:

“This case is unlike any other case encountered by this office. The Court was presented with a plethora of complex legal and factual information. After significant briefing, testimony of experts, and impact statements, the Court imposed a just sentence in weighing the gravity of the months’ long conduct and the severity of Mx. Alexander’s mental health.”

The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank Officer Huntley Miller, and Lt. Jason Andersen, for their dedication and tremendous work on this case. Also, thanks to and Amber Kinney, an attorney who represented the victims and was helpful during the case. Additionally, MCDA would like to say thank you to the wonderful victims who continue to be incredibly resilient despite all the trauma they’ve endured.

The Facts:

Information provided during sentencing showed Defendant, Eric Alexander lived in California and had an extensive history of mental illness over the last two decades. The domestic victim told police she previously dated Alexander for a year and half and that they’d broken up in July of 2024.The victim moved to Oregon in July and learned in late September of 2024 that Alexander followed her to Portland. She said they met up twice but then she made it clear that she did not want any further contact from Alexander.

Alexander began posting videos on social media and sending her messages with graphic threats on how they would kill her and others. During a state of psychosis, Alexander believed that the intended victim was connected to a Portland area family and began sending threatening emails to the family, targeting the woman and children of the home.

Just after midnight on November 7, 2024, Alexander threw an incendiary device at the house which landed on the front porch of the family’s home and set the house on fire.

Investigators tracked Alexander down at Unity Hospital where they had voluntarily admitted themself for a mental health emergency and Alexander quickly confessed to the officers.

                                                              ###MCDA###

HARNEY COUNTY, Ore. (8 September 2026) – On Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 78 near milepost 36 in Harney County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a yellow Kawasaki Teryx (UTV), operated by Rae Jean Marie Neumann (71) of Burns, was traveling southbound along the shoulder when it attempted to cut across the highway to enter a driveway. A southbound silver Mercedes E350, operated by Timothy John Dudzik (86) of Carefree, Arizona, was unable to avoid the UTV and struck it on the driver’s side before leaving the roadway on the northbound shoulder. The operator of the UTV was thrown from the vehicle.

The operator of the UTV (Neumann) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Mercedes (Dudzik) was reportedly not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 30 minutes during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Harney County Sheriff’s Office, Burns Police Department, and Harney District Hospital Emergency Medical Services.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

September 8, 2026

Media Contact: Amber Shoebridge, 503-931-9586, er.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov

New facility expands secure inpatient behavioral health care capacity for Oregon youth by a third

EUGENE, Ore. -Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has partnered with Nexus Family Healing to open a new 12-bed secure inpatient treatment facility in Eugene, significantly increasing Oregon’s capacity to serve youth who need care.

The facility expands Oregon’s capacity of secure inpatient program (SIP) beds for youth by roughly one third. The 12 new beds build the state’s total SIP beds for youth to 44, adding to the 20 beds in Corvallis, for youth 10-17, and the 12 beds in Portland, for youth 5-11.  

Youth who need this setting will have had treatment at lower levels of care and need more intensive services and support. The average stay at this level of care is six to nine months.

"Expanding Oregon’s secure residential infrastructure is vital to ensuring that young people with complex behavioral health challenges receive the right level of care in a safe, therapeutic environment," said Jessie Eagan, OHA child and family behavioral health manager.

The Nexus project is among a wave of new facilities for youth behavioral health treatment statewide that started in 2024 and will continue through 2027.

OHA invested $6.8 million for the development of two private residential treatment facilities (PRTF) for youth through House Bill 5024 (2021):

• Madrona Recovery Center Inc., Washington County, 18 beds, $2.2 million, completed in February 2024.
• Community Counseling Solutions, Morrow County, 14 beds, $4.6 million, anticipated to open in October or November 2027.

Two additional facilities for youth are in development:

• Looking Glass is receiving a total of $11.5 million from OHA to complete projects in Lane County for youth. Of that total, $5.2 million from House Bill 5025 (2025) and $1.5 million from House Bill 5030 (2025) is for the development of a 12-bed SIP facility. The remaining funds will help move and renovate their youth Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Network (BHRN) program. Anticipated completion is July 2027.
• Live. Grow. Share. is receiving $2.1 million from House Bill 5030 (2025) for the development of a 10-bed children's psychiatric residential treatment home. Anticipated project completion is December 2028.

Oregon will exceed its goal for a total of 268 youth psychiatric treatment facility beds in 2026 and expects to reach a total of 311 by December 2027. This increased capacity provides more timely and appropriate help and support to youth who need psychiatric residential treatment.

The Nexus project was funded through a $3 million grant as part of House Bill 5024 (2021).

“The opening of this campus is a testament to the dedication of the many individuals who worked tirelessly to bring this project to life,” said Toni Miller, executive director at Nexus. “For the youth we serve, healing requires more than treatment alone. Every aspect of this environment was intentionally designed to support healing, learning, growth, and long-term stability. This campus reflects our commitment to partnering with the state to restore hope and help reshape the futures of Oregon’s youth.”

Like other SIP programs, access to the Nexus facility will be managed by OHA. Nexus began accepting youth ages 10-17 on Sept. 2.

The increase in youth behavioral health capacity is happening at a time when the adult system is also experiencing significant growth, adding 1,660 licensed residential treatment beds to Oregon's continuum of care – a more than 45% increase in capacity. Of those, 1,067 are already open and serving Oregonians today, with 593 more scheduled to open within the next two and a half years. The state was the primary investor in 960 of the beds.

About Nexus

Nexus Family Healing operates specialized residential and community-based mental health services for youth and families in Portland and Eugene.

About OHA

Oregon Health Authority works to improve the lifelong health and well-being of all people in Oregon by expanding access to quality health care, strengthening behavioral health services, advancing public health, and reducing health inequities.

For behavioral health resources and information on OHA’s child and family initiatives, visit https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/Pages/index.aspx

###

The Multnomah Education Service District Board Policy Committee will meet at 12:00 p.m. on September 11, 2026. 
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.

https://multnomahesd-org.zoom.us/j/89217434552?pwd=7wJAp4yef3UwzYa7BZIu3N7MdXd2uB.1
Passcode:974408

VANCOUVER, Wash. – Re-Imagined Radio continues its experimental soundscapes Workshops series this month with “In Progress,” premiering at 1 p.m. on Sept. 21.  
 
This installment invites listeners to become active participants, creating their own stories and meanings from a carefully curated collection of sounds gathered from North America and beyond. The episode weaves together recordings of industry, weather, travel, technology and everyday life, from the clanging of a pile driver on a waterfront pier in Victoria, Canada, to the strange, melodic sounds of electromagnetic radiation captured by spacecraft exploring our solar system. 
 
Part of Re-Imagined Radio’s ongoing Workshop series, the episode encourages active listening and explores how sound alone can inspire imagination, reflection and storytelling. Listeners are invited on an auditory journey designed to inspire, refresh and spark new ways of hearing the world around them. 

The theme and title for the episode was inspired by the work and philosophy of avant-garde composer John Cage, whose famous composition “4:33” challenged audiences to listen more closely to the sounds around them and consider everyday noise as part of the listening experience. 
 
“The performer is instructed to sit at an instrument without playing a single intentional note for the duration of the piece,” said John F. Barber, producer of Re-Imagined Radio and faculty member in the digital technology and culture program at Washington State University Vancouver. “The ‘music’ of the performance is the ambient, accidental sounds occurring in the room at the time of the ‘performance.’” 
 
As with the previous Workshop episode, Barber begins with an imagined scene designed to spark listeners' creativity. He describes townspeople gathering at sunrise in a festival tent for a shared meal before inviting audiences to continue the story themselves through the sounds that follow. The episode encourages listeners to imagine their own narratives and discover meaning within a rich tapestry of sounds from distant places, everyday environments and unexpected sources. 
 
About Re-Imagined Radio 

Created in 2013 by Barber, Re-Imagined Radio explores sound-based storytelling across genres including drama, comedy, documentary and sound art. Through performances, broadcasts, streaming, podcasts and social media, the program reimagines radio storytelling for contemporary audiences. 

New episodes premiere on the third Monday of each month. Re-Imagined Radio episodes air on KXRW-FM (99.9) in Vancouver, KXRY-FM (91.1 and 107.1) in Portland, and KNOM-AM (780) in Nome, Alaska. Listening links and an archive of past episodes are available at reimaginedradio.fm, which also features Re-Imagined Radio EXTRA, offering additional sound-based storytelling between monthly episodes. 

About WSU Vancouver 

WSU Vancouver is one of six campuses of Washington State University and the only four-year research university in Southwest Washington. The campus offers undergraduate and graduate programs that support workforce development, innovation and economic growth through strong partnerships with businesses, industries and community organizations. 

# # # 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Sept. 8, 2026) ~As students head back to school and face new academic, social and personal pressures, Kaiser Permanente is reminding parents and caregivers to be aware of how young people may cope with stress, including turning to substances that can be easy to access and are often marketed in ways that make them appear harmless.

Health care teams are increasingly concerned about kratom and concentrated kratom-derived products, as well as vaping and nicotine products and sweetened, ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages. Colorful packaging, appealing flavors, social media marketing and wellness-focused branding can make these products especially attractive to kids, teens and young adults while obscuring the risks of addiction and other health consequences. Some young people may also turn to substances as a way to manage anxiety or stress, potentially delaying appropriate treatment and worsening symptoms.

“Many of these products don't look like what we traditionally think of as an addictive substance,” said Dr. Sudheer Earanky, addiction medicine specialist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “They may look like a colorful drink, a wellness product or something that will help you relax after a stressful day. Young people and their parents need to understand that the way a product is marketed doesn't tell you whether it is safe. If someone is using a substance to manage anxiety or stress, that's an important signal that they may need support for the underlying issue.”

Kratom products, including highly concentrated products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, can have opioid-like effects and may lead to dependence and withdrawal. They can be sold as shots, gummies, tablets and drink mixes and may be available at convenience stores, gas stations and smoke shops. Doctors recommend that parents talk openly with young people about products they see or use, look beyond “natural” or wellness claims, and pay attention to whether a substance is being used to cope with anxiety, stress or sleep problems. Changes in mood, sleep, school performance or social behavior can also be signs that a young person is struggling.

Interviews available:

Dr. Earanky is available for interviews via Zoom on Wednesday, Sept. 9 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.9 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.

Explore history through a modern-day lens

Vancouver, WA-- The Historic Trust Speakers Series presented by University Village will begin a series of three public talks on Thursday, September 24.

This year’s speakers are part of the Humanities Washington Speakers Bureau, and their topics showcase three fascinating talks at the intersection of history, fashion, and technology.

September 24 - Hidden Layers: Women’s Undergarments and How They’ve Shaped Ladies’ Liberties, with Diane Johnston; Diane Johnston is a theatrical costume designer who has spent the past 35 years creating costumes for a variety of productions throughout the region. She holds an MFA in costume design and is a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees. Diane lives in Stanwood.

October 15 - Doomscrolling Detox: Finding Your Balance in the Digital Age, with T. Andrew Wahl; T. Andrew Wahl has worked in journalism and media communication across Washington state, earning awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, National Federation of Press Women, United Nations, and others. Wahl is tenured faculty at Everett Community College where he teaches journalism, media literacy, and comics studies. Andrew lives in Stanwood.

November 12 - Permanent Ink: Why We Still Love Print in the Digital Age with Geoffrey Turnovsky; Geoffrey Turnovsky is professor of French at the University of Washington. His teaching and research focus on the cultural history of early modern France and Europe, and the history of print, books, authorship, and reading. He is the author of Reading Typographically: Immersed in Print in Early Modern France. Geoffrey lives in Seattle.

These talks are free and open to the public, but reservations are required as seating is limited. Reservations will open approximately one month before the presentation and can be found online in the Historic Trust Events Calendar. Talks will take place at the Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes St. Vancouver, WA 98661 from 6:00pm-8:00pm, and doors open at 5:30pm.

About University Village and Koelsch Senior Communities

Koelsch Communities is a third-generation, family-owned and operated senior living provider. For over 65 years, Koelsch Communities has led the industry in Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care. Known for its first-class service, holistic care model, and an employee-centric company culture, Koelsch provides the finest living and working experiences anywhere as ladies and gentlemen, serving ladies and gentlemen. Koelsch believes in the innovative programs that make aging well possible, and building a strong foundation of safety with the latest in security and technology. The company’s University Village campus in Southwest Washington spans 13 acres and offers a vibrant, lifelong learning lifestyle supported by amenities including a fitness center, resort-style pool, greenhouse, pickleball courts, movie theater and more. Learn more about University Village and their services at: https://koelschseniorcommunities.com/. To learn more about the Fall Speakers Series or to make reservations, please visit: https://www.thehistorictrust.org/calendar/ or call 360-992-1800.

2026 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com and are reviewed on a rolling basis

• One member who is an administrator of a municipality recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the League of Oregon Cities
• One member who is part of a marginalized or historically underrepresented community
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by September 18, 2026.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One non-management corrections officer employed by the DOC
• One public member who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Police Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
• One non-management law enforcement officer
• One non-management law enforcement officer

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing unarmed private security professionals
• One person representing the manufacturing industry
• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing the hospitality industry
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• One currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing a statewide association of public safety communications officers
• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

OREGON CITY – Clackamas Community College contributed $328 million in added income to the Clackamas County economy in fiscal year 2023-24 and supported 3,762 jobs, according to a new economic impact report examining the college’s role in the regional and state economies.

The impact was equal to approximately 1.2% of the county’s gross regional product. Put another way, one out of every 70 jobs in Clackamas County was supported by the college and its students.

The report, prepared by labor market analytics firm Lightcast using fiscal year 2023-24 data, measures the impact of college operations, student spending and the increased earnings of CCC alumni and the businesses that employ them.

“Clackamas Community College changes lives, but its impact extends well beyond our classrooms,” CCC President Tim Cook said. “When our students gain skills, earn degrees and certificates, and work family-wage jobs, not only do local employers gain the skilled workforce they need, but our entire community benefits. This report shows that investing in CCC is an investment in the future of Clackamas County.”

CCC’s total annual impact includes:

• $225.4 million from the increased earnings of CCC alumni and the businesses they work for, supporting 2,513 jobs.
• $88.1 million from college payroll and other operating expenses, supporting 1,028 jobs.
• $14.5 million from the spending of students who relocated to or remained in Clackamas County to attend CCC, supporting 220 jobs.

The report also found a strong return on investment for students, taxpayers and the broader community. For every dollar students invest in their CCC education, they gain $4.50 in higher lifetime earnings. Taxpayers receive $1.20 in added tax revenue and public-sector savings, and society gains $6 in added income and social savings.

At the statewide level, Oregon’s 17 community colleges added $11 billion to the state economy in fiscal year 2023-24, equal to 3.7% of Oregon’s gross state product. Together, they supported 120,140 jobs — one out of every 23 jobs in the state. The colleges served 125,399 credit students and 77,494 noncredit students during the year.

For more information about the results of this study, visit www.clackamas.edu/economic-impact.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Salem to Host First of Three Town Halls on Data Centers: Feedback Sought on Community Priorities
 

Salem, Ore. — The first of three City of Salem town halls focused on data centers and their impact on the community takes place this month. Join the conversation on Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 5-7 p.m. at Broadway Commons or provide your input to the Data Center Task Force anytime at our Data Center Community Survey.

On both Sept. 15 and Oct. 6, town hall participants will be invited to share suggestions for data center water usage, noise, job creation and electricity consumption, as well as other topic areas. Charged with developing a proposal for managing data centers in Salem, the Task Force will present its recommendations to the Salem City Council in December. The town halls serve as an opportunity for Salem’s Data Center Task Force to engage directly with residents and stakeholders to collect feedback and information on how to best manage future data centers in Salem. Input gathered will help shape the Task Force’s understanding of the community’s priorities and guide their recommendations to City Council.

Through Oct. 9, the Task Force is also collecting input through a data center community survey. The survey invites input and ideas for City action on same topical areas discussed at the town halls, allowing community members to provide valuable feedback remotely. The survey is available Spanish as well as English.

At the Oct. 20 town hall, the Task Force will seek community input on its draft recommendations.  

More about Data Center Town Halls:

• Sept. 15, 5-7 p.m.
  • Ideas and input for City action on data centers
  • Broadway Commons
    1300 Broadway St. NE
    Grant/Highland Room
     
• Oct. 6, 3:30-5:30 p.m.
  • Ideas and input for City action on data centers
    Center 50+
    2615 Portland Rd NE
     
• Oct. 20, 5-7 p.m.
  • Input on draft Task Force recommendations
  • Scottish Rite Center
    4090 Commercial St SE

More about Salem’s Data Center Task Force.  Formed at Salem City Council’s direction on July 27, the Task Force is charged with facilitating a minimum of three town hall discussions to engage the community on the topic of data centers. The goal of the Task Force is to develop a principle-driven approach to managing data center growth that balances economic, environmental and community interests. The Task Force will meet to consider community input and draft its recommendations. The Task Force’s proposal will appear on the Dec. 7 Salem City Council meeting agenda.
 

The City of Salem encourages all interested residents and stakeholders to participate in this important conversation about the future of data centers in Salem. More information on the City’s work concerning data centers can be found on the City’s website.

Español a continuación

BENTON COUNTY, Ore.— As children return to classrooms and daycare across Benton County, the Health Department reminds schools and caregivers of declining childhood vaccination rates across the state and county. The Health Department encourages families to follow the recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedule to avoid school exclusion and to help protect students, families, staff, and the community from serious illness.

In June, the Health Department reported a downward trend in school-required vaccination rates across both the State and County and that “more students than ever are attending school without some or all required vaccines.” With schools resuming after the busy months of summer, the department wants to remind folks of the risks associated with this decline.

When vaccine rates decline, the risk of outbreaks of diseases like measles and pertussis (whooping cough) increases. These diseases spread quickly in schools and childcare programs.

“Lots of families travel during the summer, said Luv Paresa, RN, immunization coordinator for Benton County Health Department. “When staff and children return to classrooms and childcare facilities in the fall, it’s not uncommon for illness to spread quickly.”

“Now is a great time to ensure our children and the community is protected by getting kids and teens up to date on recommended and required vaccines,” Paresa said.

Local Risk and School Immunization Rates

According to the Health Department, the current vaccination rates are not high enough to maintain community immunity. Community immunity, sometimes called herd immunity, means that enough people in a group or area have immunity to a germ (for instance, a virus) that it no longer spreads easily.

While most families in Benton County continue to choose vaccination to protect themselves, schools vary in their vaccination rates.

“The most current vaccination rates are not high enough to prevent measles outbreaks,” said Carolina Amador, M.D., health officer and pediatrician for Benton County Health Services. “We encourage families to look at the rates in their schools to better understand person and community risk."

School-specific immunization rates are available through OHA’s School Immunization Data Dashboard.

School Exclusion During an Outbreak

Under Oregon law, students who are not fully vaccinated may be excluded from school or childcare during an outbreak. This helps protect them and prevent the disease from spreading. 

Exclusions can last from several days to several weeks, depending on the disease. For example, during a measles outbreak, students who are not vaccinated must stay home for at least 21 days. Missing school can disrupt learning, activities, and family schedules.

Get Ready for the School Year

The start of the school year is a great time for parents and caregivers to check their children’s vaccine statuses and update their records to avoid school exclusion. Benton County Health Department encourages people to:

• Check which vaccines are required for school and childcare.
• Review child vaccine records.
• Schedule any needed vaccine appointments.

• Ask questions about school vaccine requirements and other recommended vaccines.

If children need vaccines, contact their doctor or call Benton County Health Department at 541-766-6835. Their Public Health Immunization Clinic at 530 NW 27^th Street, Corvallis is open Monday – Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome. The clinic offers longer appointment times and helps locate and update complex vaccine records such as out of state or international records.

For more information, visit Benton County’s immunizations webpage where you can find an easy-to-read, printable flyer of the school-required vaccine schedule in both English and Spanish.

---

Benton County Health Department

The Benton County Health Department is committed to protecting the health and well-being of everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Benton County. The Benton County Health Department focuses on preventing health problems before they occur. Their programs strive to create community conditions that help reduce health disparities, so all people have an equal chance for a long and healthy life.

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Beaverton Police are investigating a series of events that ended with a traffic crash on SW Allen Boulevard and a Beaverton man suffering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The investigation began at approximately 4:28 p.m. on September 5, 2026, when officers responded to a crash on SW Allen Boulevard between SW 141st Avenue and SW Murray Boulevard. Officers located a black 2010 Volkswagen Routan minvan that had left the roadway and struck a tree. The driver, a Beaverton man in his 20s, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition after suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound following the crash.

As officers investigated, they learned the events leading to the crash began earlier that morning. Investigators learned the man had been involved in a domestic disturbance with his significant other at a Beaverton area apartment complex, during which he allegedly pointed a gun at his significant other. Beaverton Police were not called to the disturbance when it occurred, and the two separated afterward.

Later that afternoon, the man was driving the Volkswagen when he was involved in multiple traffic crashes along SW Davis Road and SW Allen Boulevard. The series of crashes ended when the Volkswagen left the roadway on SW Allen Boulevard and struck a tree at approximately 4:28 p.m. Investigators believe alcohol was a contributing factor in the crashes.

After the final crash, investigators determined the man shot himself. Emergency medical personnel transported him to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

SW Allen Boulevard was closed in both directions between SW 141st Avenue and SW Murray Boulevard for several hours yesterday while officers investigated the crash and surrounding circumstances.

The man’s identity is not being released due to the nature and circumstances of the incident. The investigation remains ongoing. No additional information is available for release at this time.

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Vancouver Fire Department Responds to Residential Structure Fire on NE 35th Street

VANCOUVER, Wash. — September 6, 2026 — At approximately 7:32 p.m. Sunday, September 6, Vancouver Fire Department crews were dispatched to a report of a house fire at 15800 NE 35th Street in Vancouver, Washington.

Vancouver Fire responded with 9 apparatus and 25 firefighters. Upon arrival, firefighters found a well-involved fire in a two-story residence, with flames billowing from both the front and back of the home.

Firefighters immediately began an aggressive fire attack while simultaneously searching the residence for potential occupants. Crews were able to bring the fire under control in less than 35 minutes.

Firefighters searched the home and no one was found inside. No injuries were reported.

Vancouver Fire Department Fire Marshals are on scene conducting an investigation to determine the origin and cause of the fire.

Fire Safety Reminder

A working smoke alarm can provide the early warning needed to escape a house fire safely. Vancouver Fire Department reminds residents to:

• Make sure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Test smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries when needed.
• Create and practice a home fire escape plan with everyone in your household. Know two ways out of every room when possible.
• Get outside and stay outside if a fire occurs. Never go back inside a burning home.
• Call 911 immediately from a safe location if you discover a fire.

MYRTLE CREEK, Ore. - On Saturday, September 5, 2026, at approximately 10:40 p.m., deputies with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a reported burglary in progress at a residence located in the 1000-block of North Gazley Road in Myrtle Creek. The caller advised there were two males inside the residence at the location and a female associated with a black 2007 Honda Fit who fled after she was confronted. 

While responding, deputies located the Honda Fit and conducted a traffic stop. Deputies detained the driver, 45-year-old Amber Leigh Cates of Canyonville. She was later taken into custody. 

Upon arrival, deputies contacted the victim who reported that there had been two males were inside the residence. The victim advised that one male had fled on foot while the second was possibly still inside. 

K9 Zoro was deployed inside the residence after numerous announcements were made that the canine would be searching the residence and instructing anyone inside to surrender. There was no response. 

K9 Zoro conducted a search of the residence and did not locate anyone inside. Deputies then began searching the surrounding property for the fleeing suspects. 

K9 Zoro led his handler to a large field and began tracking north. After a short distance, Zoro showed a strong interest in an area of tall grass, indicating the presence of fresh human scent. Zoro continued tracking, eventually turning east. 

After approximately 15 yards, a male later identified as 50-year-old Tommy Coggswell of Canyonville, suddenly stood up from the tall grass with his hands raised. K9 Zoro began barking at Coggswell until deputies took him into custody without further incident. 

Deputies and K9 Zoro continued searching the area for the second male suspect, but he was not located. 

Cates and Coggswell were transported to the Douglas County Jail where they were lodged on the following charges: 

Cates: 

• Conspiracy to Commit a Class C Felony
• Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine

Coggswell: 

• Burglary in the Second Degree

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information should call 541-440-4471 referencing case #26-2801. Additional case updates will be released when they become available. 

​The Sheriff's Office was assisted by Officers from the Myrtle Creek and Cow Creek Tribal Police Departments. 

K9 Zoro, a 8-year-old German Shepherd, has been with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office since September 2019. He was purchased by an anonymous donor in the community and gifted to the agency. The Sheriff's Office K9 program, consisting of three Patrol K9 teams and 1 narcotics K9 team, is supported financially by private donations and the Friends of Umpqua Valley Police K9 Programs, a non-profit organization whose mission is to support local police K9 teams. 

Tigard Police are investigating a homicide at an apartment complex where a woman was shot and killed. 
 

At 7:56 PM on Friday, September 4, 2026, officers were dispatched to an assault with a weapon call in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 9000 block of SW Washington Square Road. Witnesses reported seeing a man shoot a woman before leaving the scene on foot. 

Despite lifesaving measures that were attempted at the scene, the victim did not survive. 

A suspect was quickly located nearby and arrested. He has been identified as ​Christopher Fisher, age 42. He was booked into the Washington County Jail on charges of second-degree murder and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Detectives are continuing to investigate, and there is no ongoing threat to the community at this time. The victim is not being identified until next of kin are notified.

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Vancouver, Wash. – On September 4, 2026, at around 4:30 p.m., Vancouver Police responded to the 5000 block of E Fourth Plain Blvd. for the report of a shooting. An employee working at a restaurant in the area was shot by a male near the back of the business, the suspect fled the scene on foot. The victim was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Police are attempting to locate and interview possible witnesses to determine an accurate description of the suspect.

Detectives from the Vancouver Police Department Crime Reduction Unit are continuing the investigation. Nothing further is being released at this time. There is not believed to be any danger to the general public.

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The Umpqua Community College Board of Education will have a regular board meeting on September 9, 2026, at 5:00pm in room 17 of Tapʰòytʰaʼ Hall (TAP). Pertinent meeting information can be found at umpqua.edu/board-meetings.

September 4, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Siletz Bay health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Siletz Bay, located in Lincoln County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 3, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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September 4, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Oceanside Beach health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore.—The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 2, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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OHA issues standing order for updated COVID-19 vaccines enabling broad pharmacy access

Order aligns with West Coast Health Alliance recommendations, allows providers to administer vaccines for 2026-2027 respiratory virus season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has issued a standing order that will allow vaccine providers statewide to begin administering updated COVID-19 vaccines as soon as this weekend.

Oregon’s COVID-19 vaccine standing order, issued today and signed by Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA, aligns with similar protocols in the other three states of the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA)—Washington, California and Hawaii.

Oregon’s standing order is based on data for those at highest risk for severe outcomes, including recommending COVID-19 vaccination for children younger than 2, adults 65 and older, people of any age with underlying medical conditions, pregnant individuals, previously unvaccinated children, those living in congregate settings, and health care workers. The standing order also recommends COVID-19 vaccines be available to all who choose them—including those between ages 2 and 65—as they have been in previous respiratory virus seasons.

The announcement about the standing order follows West Coast Health Alliance recommendations for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. These recommendations are informed by trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and viewablehere.

Immunization is the best protection available against respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Seasonal immunization is also a critical public health tool to reduce serious illness including hospitalization and death, community transmission, and health care systems strain.

“We are delighted that anyone who wants protection can get the COVID-19 vaccine starting this weekend,” Sidelinger said. “I join my public health colleagues in the other West Coast Health Alliance member states in celebrating this important step toward ensuring our communities are well prepared for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season.”

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. They can also search for a clinic by ZIP code by visiting vaccines.gov, or by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org.

About West Coast Health Alliance

The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is a partnership between California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by safety, efficacy, transparency, access and trust. For more information, visit Oregon’s WCHA page.

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Vancouver Fire Responds to Structure Fire on NE 70th Street

VANCOUVER, Wash. — September 4, 2026 — At approximately 2:27 p.m. today, Vancouver Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5619 NE 70th St. in Vancouver, Washington.

Vancouver Fire responded with a total of 10 units and 28 suppression personnel. The fire was out upon crews’ arrival. Firefighters conducted a thorough investigation of the structure to ensure the fire had not extended into the attic or other concealed areas.

Vancouver Fire paramedics and American Medical Response (AMR) provided medical care at the scene to a citizen who sustained minor burns. The individual declined transportation to a hospital.

Clark County Fire District 6 assisted at the scene, responding with an engine and ladder truck.

The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office was also on scene to investigate the incident. The cause of the fire and any additional details related to the incident remain under investigation.

There were no reports of additional injuries.

Media Contact:

Captain Raymond Egan

aymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us">raymond.egan@cityofvancouver.us

Cell 360-869-3914
Vancouver Fire Department
Vancouver, Washington

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: ONA nurses and healthcare professionals, along with NICU doctors, will meet with legislators at the Oregon State Capitol Tuesday, Sept. 8. 

Contact Kevin Mealy at 765-760-2203 or mealy@oregonrn.org to arrange media interviews.   

SALEM, OR - Southern Oregon doctors, nurses and techs are traveling to Salem to speak with state legislators about Asante’s healthcare cuts and closures, repeated violations of Oregon’s hospital safe staffing law, and anti-union spending Tuesday, Sept. 8.

In recent years, executives at Asante–Southern Oregon’s largest healthcare system–have:

• Closed maternity and inpatient services at Ashland’s only hospital 
• Closed multiple outpatient clinics
• Closed a Southern Oregon surgery center it partially owned
• Laid off hundreds of local caregivers including NICU doctors
• Outsourced doctors and healthcare workers
• Accrued nearly $1.5 million in state fines for violating Oregon’s hospital safe staffing law
• Failed to meet its community benefit obligations under Oregon law
• Refused to recognize or bargain with union healthcare professionals
• Spent untold amounts on anti-union consultants in possible violation of federal law

These decisions are negatively impacting Oregonians and can contribute to longer waits, rising costs, staffing shortages, and fewer healthcare options for Southern Oregonians.
 

MEDIA INTERVIEWS AVAILABLE: ONA nurses and healthcare professionals, along with local doctors are available for interviews Tuesday, Sept. 8 from noon - 2:30 p.m. Contact Kevin Mealy at 765-760-2203 or mealy@oregonrn.org to arrange interviews. 

Nearly 1, 200 ONA nurses at Asante’s flagship hospital in Medford–Rogue Regional Medical Center–are actively attempting to reach a fair contract that improves staffing and safety, offers fair wage opportunities, and ensures local frontline healthcare providers have a meaningful voice in their community’s healthcare.

Another 250 ONA healthcare professionals–including local radiologic technologists, licensed practical nurses (LPNs), respiratory therapists, physical therapy assistants, occupational therapy assistants and surgical technicians successfull–are also advocating for a fair contract. Unfortunately, Asante executives have repeatedly refused to recognize and bargain with these healthcare professionals despite a federal order to do so.

ONA nurses and health professionals are being joined by local NICU doctors who were fired by Asante executives after voicing concerns about patient safety and staffing.

Healthcare providers are united and eager to meet with legislators and demand Asante:  

• Puts patients before profits and executive compensation
• Invests in safe staffing and patient care
• Is transparent with Southern Oregon communities
• Respects and includes frontline healthcare professionals in healthcare decisions that impact patient care

By working together, nurses, doctors, healthcare professionals and elected officials can protect the future of healthcare in Southern Oregon and ensure Rogue Regional remains a hospital that puts local patients and families first.

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September 4, 2026  

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, 971-323-3831 Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov

New facility expands secure residential behavioral health bed capacity in Multnomah County

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The Centennial School District Governing Board will meet for their Regular Business Meeting on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 6:30 pm.

The Board and key staff will attend in-person at CSD's District Office - 18135 SE Brooklyn St., Portland, OR  97236.

The public and guests may join in person or virtually via the Zoom app.

To join the meeting, please click on the link below

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89331100906?pwd=aLzrmB9osC9a2I-Fv2QQtLFeeD_YHA.nKxi8i2HpFMKgM3x
Passcode:951959

Or Telephone, dial:

     +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799

Webinar ID: 893 3110 0906
Passcode: 951959

Public comment will be limited to a total of 30 minutes per meeting. Individuals wishing to address the Board will be required to submit their request and topic via the online form at least 24 hours prior to the start of the regular business meeting.  For more information regarding this process, please visit our website at www.csd28j.org.

The full board meeting packet is available for reference on the Centennial School District website at www.csd28j.org and can be found on the School Board page. The meeting agenda may be updated as needed and additional board meeting documents may be added as they become available. 

For information about the agenda email dan@csd28j.org">melissa_grindle@csd28j.org or oard@csd28j.org">board@csd28j.org.

ROSEBURG, Ore. — The Art Gallery at Umpqua Community College will present an exhibition featuring work by UCC visual arts faculty members Jon Hoffman, Greg Price and Brian Willett.

The exhibition will be on display Sept. 14 through Oct. 14 in the Whipple Fine Arts Center at UCC. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The exhibition highlights the creative work of faculty members who bring their experience as practicing artists directly into the classroom.

“All of the faculty in visual arts at Umpqua Community College are active and practicing artists,” said Hoffman. “It is important to show our students that we practice what we teach.”

A public reception and artist talk will take place Thursday, Sept. 24, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Visitors will have an opportunity to view the exhibition, meet the artists and hear more about their work and creative practices.

Admission to the exhibition and reception is free and open to the public.

About The Art Gallery

The UCC Art Gallery is located in the Whipple Fine Arts Building at Umpqua Community College, 1140 Umpqua College Road, Roseburg, OR 97470. The 1,100-square-foot exhibition space presents six exhibitions each year, showcasing a variety of media and work by emerging and established artists.

The primary focus of The Art Gallery is to exhibit high-quality artwork for the educational and cultural benefit of UCC students and residents of Douglas County.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

[Portland, OR September 4, 2026] The American Red Cross is partnering with Portland Fire & Rescue to encourage people to give blood at a special blood drive in memory of those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Now observed as an annual Day of Service and Remembrance, 9/11 provides an opportunity to honor the victims and heroes of that day through acts of service such as donating blood.

WHERE: Portland Fire & Rescue Skidmore Conference Room, 55 Ash Street, Portland

WHEN: Friday, September 11, 2026, from 8:00am to 2:00pm.  Meet Jim Stevenson, one of the Red Cross volunteers who responded to ground zero in 2001, from 9 to 11:00am.

Sign up to donate today by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter the sponsor code: PortlandFire.

Background:  September 11, 2001, marks one of the most devastating days in U.S. history. In the hours following the tragedy, the American Red Cross initiated a relief effort that would last years, involving more than 57,000 Red Crossers, including Jim Stevenson. 

“There was a Marriott Hotel nearby and the Red Cross took over the first five floors, says Jim. “My floor was a huge ballroom with nothing but supplies. It was a full-service canteen site, where a responder can rest, use a computer, take a shower and get a change of clothes. I worked the overnight shift. I would also walk the perimeter of the disaster zone and offer water and other items. It was an honor and privilege to represent the Red Cross on 9/11 in New York City.  It’s a moment in time I will never forget.”

In all, the Red Cross served more than 14 million meals and snacks, opened dozens of shelters for people who were left stranded and connected over 350,000 times with people to provide emotional support and health services.  Through the generosity of our donors, hundreds of millions of dollars in financial assistance were provided to families that lost loved ones, were physically injured, first responders, and workers who lost their jobs.  Hundreds of thousands of people also lined up to give blood and help in any way they could. Today, we are keeping that spirit alive with this memorial blood drive.  

Pics: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/2w5wc7a0w9hvlphximmu3/AIUu-nhPpZDC6_3jX_IPllA?rlkey=0tki7l30tnvyj0oq00tc83ilo&st=8jm4nbtb&dl=0

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, servicing 65 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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 It is with profound sadness that the Southwest Polk Fire District announces the passing of longtime Board President Rod Watson.

Rod served the Southwest Polk Fire District Board of Directors for 32 years, many of those years as President. Few individuals have had a greater or more lasting influence on the direction, culture, and future of our Fire District.

Rod believed deeply in service to his community and in doing things the right way. Throughout his years of leadership, his guidance was consistent: take the high road, do what is right, and always remember who we are here to serve. That philosophy became more than advice; it became part of the standard by which our District operates.

During his tenure, Rod played a key role in many of the District’s most significant accomplishments. His leadership helped bring three new fire stations to the District, strengthen regional fire services, establish ambulance services, and secure funding to hire additional firefighters and staff the Bridgeport Fire Station.

Rod was more than a Board President. He showed up. He attended District events, supported our firefighters and staff, and remained deeply invested in the people and communities we serve. It was a privilege to work alongside him, and his legacy cannot simply be measured by his accomplishments. It lives on in the organization he helped build, the lives he influenced, and the standard of integrity he left for us to follow. 

Outside the Fire District, Rod was the owner of RG Watson Farms, a respected member of the Rickreall community, a husband, a father of four, and the proud grandfather of twenty. His dedication to family, agriculture, community, and public service reflected a life centered on service to others.

The Southwest Polk Fire District extends its deepest condolences to Rod’s family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his friendship and service.

President Watson, thank you for 32 years of extraordinary service, leadership, friendship, and unwavering commitment to this District and its people.

Your watch has ended, but your legacy will remain with us always.

DALLAS (OR) – Mario Mendoza, 56, has been sentenced to serve 24 months in prison after pleading guilty in Polk County Circuit Court to stealing a Ford F-150 pick-up truck in Pasco, Washington approximately two weeks ago.

Mendoza, of Salem, appeared before Circuit Judge pro tem Timothy R. Park and pled guilty to one count of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. He will also be required to serve 12 months of Post Prison Supervision upon his release from custody. Mendoza has an extensive criminal history of fraud and other property crimes dating back over the last 20 years.

According to investigators, when Mendoza was arrested in the parking lot of the West Salem Goodwill, he told police that he had simply been borrowing the truck to pick up a part to fix his bicycle.

The case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Polk County Deputy District Attorney Garrett Lewellen.

September 4, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Mill Beach health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore.  - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Mill Beach, located in Curry County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 3, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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Vancouver, Wash. – Original artwork returns to Vancouver Community Library this fall as the Friends of Vancouver Community Library present the ninth annual Art4Art, a fundraiser featuring one-of-a-kind works created by local artists of all ages and skill levels. The event takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C Street.

“Art4Art makes original art accessible to everyone while celebrating creativity and connection through the library,” said Jennifer Giltrop, Executive Director of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District. “We are deeply grateful to the Friends volunteers, whose year-round dedication and generosity strengthen our libraries in so many ways. Their fundraising makes it possible for the District to expand access, try new ideas, and respond to the evolving needs of the people we serve.”

Local artists are invited to participate by creating an original work on an 8-by-8-inch wood panel. Panels are free and available for pickup at the fifth-floor service desk inside Vancouver Community Library. Completed artwork must be returned by Tuesday, Sept. 15.

At Art4Art, the Friends will sell the completed panels for $30 each, with proceeds supporting art programs and projects at the library. Every piece is sold at the same price, regardless of the artist’s experience or notoriety, making it possible for everyone to take home an original work of art while supporting their local library.

Last year, Art4Art proceeds helped support the library’s Community Reads program.

Thank you to Burgener’s Woodworking, Inc. for donating the wood panels.

Learn more about Art4Art and how to participate. 

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The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Wednesday, September 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:40 p.m. This public meeting will be conducted as a hybrid teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_9_16_2026.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

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UPDATE: Nguyen has been found.

ORIGINAL:

Gresham, Ore.— Gresham Police are asking for help from the public locating 79-year-old Toan Nguyen.  Nguyen was last seen just before 10 a.m. leaving his residence near SE 190^th Ave and SE Division St in Gresham.  Nguyen is 5’9” tall, weighs 150 pounds, and was wearing a white shirt and blue pants.  Police are asking anyone who sees Nguyen to call non-emergency dispatch at 503-823-3333, or their local public safety phone number.

UPDATE: Corrected age for Gail Elizabeth Smith is 74. 

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. (3 September 2026) – On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at approximately 2:50 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 38 near milepost 27 in Douglas County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Honda Ridgeline pickup, operated by Gail Elizabeth Smith (74) of Coburg, was traveling eastbound on Highway 38 when, for unknown reasons, it crossed the center line and entered the westbound lanes. The Honda collided head-on with a westbound yellow Douglas County Public Works International dump truck, operated by Cody James Miller (25) of Winchester Bay.

The operator of the Honda (Smith) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the International (Miller) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Highway 38 was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Elkton Fire Rural Protection District, North Douglas County Fire & EMS, Scottsburg Rural Fire District, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.    

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

State of Oregon v. Jared Tresham

Marion County Circuit Court Case #25CR26443

Keizer Man Sentenced for Domestic Violence

Salem, OR – September 4, 2026 – A Marion County jury convicted Jared Edward Dean Tresham (age 42) of Keizer, Oregon of one count of Unlawful Use of a Weapon Constituting Domestic Violence with a Firearm, one count of Coercion Constituting Domestic Violence, and two counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The Honorable Marion County Circuit Court Judge Natasha Zimmerman sentenced Tresham to 72 months (six years) in the Department of Corrections, followed by two years of supervision after his release.

The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on May 10, 2025, at the Keizer home of the defendant and his wife. In the middle of the night, while their two children slept, the defendant, who was intoxicated from alcohol, entered the couples’ bedroom. He then hit the victim repeatedly with a Bible, striking her in the head, arms, back and neck. The victim attempted to leave the bedroom, but the defendant blocked her path. The defendant went into their bedroom closet and retrieved two firearms: a .45 caliber handgun and an AR 15-style rifle. When the victim heard the slide of the gun “rack” she ran downstairs to call 911.

The defendant followed her down the stairs and pointed the barrel of the handgun at her forehead. Slung over his shoulder was the AR-15 style rifle. She continued to run into the garage which is where she was when officers from Keizer Police Department arrived. Tresham, a convicted felon who was not allowed to be in possession of any firearms, returned into the home with the firearms. Due to concerns about the safety of the children inside, a Marion County Sheriff’s Office crisis negotiator arrived to assist. After approximately three hours, the defendant exited the home and was taken into custody.

"This defendant terrorized his wife with a firearm in their own home while their children slept nearby," said DA-elect Brendan Murphy. "Our Domestic Violence team will continue to prosecute these types of crimes to the fullest extent of the law."

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Braden Wolf. The Marion County DA’s office wishes to thank the Keizer Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication and thorough investigation.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 4, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sam Tenney, Communications Coordinator
sam.tenney@dpsst.oregon.gov
503-931-4069
 

Twenty‑Five Years After 9/11, DPSST Invites Oregonians to Reflect at the September 11 Memorial

SALEM, Ore. — As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) welcomes the public to view the September 11 Memorial at the Oregon Public Safety Academy on Friday, Sept. 11. Visitors are invited to reflect on the lives lost, the extraordinary acts of courage shown that day, and the enduring impact the attacks continue to have on our country.

The academy hosts a permanent display of artifacts from the attacks that claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people, including 343 firefighters, 71 law enforcement officers and 55 military personnel. In addition to the lives lost in the immediate aftermath of the attacks, thousands of first responders have succumbed to illness resulting from their heroic rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero.

The memorial serves as a testament to the courage, service, and selflessness demonstrated on 9/11. It honors those who rushed toward danger without hesitation, those who supported months‑long recovery efforts, and the families and communities who have carried the weight of loss for 25 years. It also provides a meaningful connection for younger generations, helping them understand the significance of the day and the humanity shown in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the memorial on Friday, Sept. 11, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The academy is located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy. SE in Salem. Upon entering academy grounds, signage will direct visitors to the main entry. The memorial display is located in the lobby.

Artifacts on display at the 9/11 Memorial include:

• A floor beam from either 5 or 6 World Trade Center
• A structural beam from the base of the North Tower (1 World Trade Center)
• A support strap from the towers’ mechanical systems
• A smaller floor beam from above the 50th floor of one of the Twin Towers
• A piece of exterior aluminum “skin” from one of the towers
• A limestone façade section from the Pentagon, recovered near the point of impact

The artifacts are accompanied by a video tribute, a painting by artist Ricardo Salazar depicting the attacks, and the flags of New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, displayed in honor of the lives lost in each of those states.

The Oregon Public Safety Academy campus also houses memorials dedicated to Oregon’s fallen law enforcement officers and fire service professionals. The Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial commemorates 199 officers who have died in the line of duty since the 1860s, and the Oregon Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial honors 185 fire service members lost since 1881. DPSST holds annual ceremonies to remember these individuals and their service to Oregon communities.

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About DPSST

The mission of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is to pursue excellence in training and accountability for public safety professionals.

DPSST certifies and licenses police, corrections, and parole and probation officers, as well as regulatory specialists, emergency telecommunicators and medical dispatchers, criminal justice instructors, private security providers, private investigators, fire service professionals, and polygraph examiners in the state of Oregon.

DPSST works with public and private safety agencies around the state to provide basic, leadership and specialized training at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem and regionally throughout the state.

Where Wildlife and Wonder Meet

BEND, OR — Friday, Sept. 4, is National Wildlife Day, but at the High Desert Museum, every day is wildlife day.  From the bobcat that trots through our habitat, to the raptors that call this place home, wildlife is at the heart of what the Museum does through daily programs and the quieter work of care and conservation that happens even when the doors are closed.

This month marks the one-year anniversary of the High Desert Museum receiving its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which is considered the gold standard for animal care and well-being worldwide.
 

Discover the stories of porcupines, skunks, beavers, foxes and more through the voices of our dedicated wildlife team at a wildlife encounter or interpretive talk. Additional stories of care and conservation are available on the Museum’s website.

Meet a North American Porcupine

Meet a North American porcupine (or two!) at the Museum’s porcupine habitat in the Hollern Atrium and fall in love with our slow-moving, quilled friends. The North American porcupine is generally nocturnal but may occasionally be seen at dawn or dusk, making them an elusive animal in the wild. At the Museum you may be able to see one sleeping on a log or snacking on pine needles and manzanita leaves. Want to help find and record porcupine sightings in the wild? Join the iNaturalist community and the Wildlife Watch program and support a community-science research initiative to support our quilled friends in the wild!

Experience Raptors of the Desert Sky
It's the final weekend of the Museum's popular summer program, Raptors of the Desert Sky! Occurring daily at 11:30 am (weather permitting), the flight show features owls, hawks, falcons, vultures and eagles soaring over the audience in a natural amphitheater. Recommended for ages 5 and older.

Desert Dwellers Program

Experience a close-up encounter with some of the animal ambassadors and learn the secrets of their success in this rugged landscape. Daily at 3 pm. Included in admission.

A Shared Mission for Lamprey

In collaboration with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Museum houses Pacific lamprey at the Autzen Otter Exhibit. The exhibit highlights their vital ecological role and their recent drop in population.

Discover the Museum’s Ambassador Species

From beavers and bobcats to rattlesnakes and raptors, the High Desert Museum cares for more than 100 animals who help to educate visitors on their importance in our ecosystem as ambassador species.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

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Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) wants to remind Oregonians that even with the weather shifting, Oregon is still in fire season. Several ODF districts have updated their fire danger level and restrictions recently. However, even with the rain, fuels remain dry and warm weather is expected to return next week.

“Typically, Oregon’s fire season doesn’t end until mid-October, and as we know the weather can change very quickly,” said Michael Curran, ODF Fire Protection Division Chief. “We are still seeing new fire starts throughout the state and fire regulations remain in place.”

Remember that if you are responsible for starting a wildfire in Oregon, you are liable for suppression costs. Remain aware and informed by checking your local fire restrictions and fire danger levels.

Wildfire prevention means:

• Debris burning remains the number one cause of human-caused fires in Oregon and is prohibited during fire season. Cover your pile and wait until fire season is declared over before burning. A dry, covered pile is cleaner and safer to burn in the late fall and winter. Visit beforeyouburn.net for real-time updates on burning regulations and safe burning practices.
• Check local restrictions before lighting a camp or warming fire to see if it is allowed.
• Never leave your campfire or warming fire unattended.
• Make sure your campfire or warming fire is OUT COLD. That means drowning it with water, stirring the ashes, and repeating that process until it is cold to touch. If there is any heat coming off the embers, then it can reignite later.
• Don’t park your car over dried grass, and make sure your vehicle or ATV is regularly serviced.
• Make sure your tow chains are not dragging. The metal hitting asphalt while driving can throw sparks into dry grass on the side of the road.

Visit keeporegongreen.org for more wildfire prevention tips.

The Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) is extending the comment period for proposed changes to administrative rules (OAR 141-083) that guide how easements are issued for uses of the territorial sea.

DSL wants to allow time for more input before the proposed rules are presented to the State Land Board for a decision. This rulemaking seeks to strengthen protections for Oregon’s marine ecosystems, streamline permitting, and ensure fair public compensation for use of the seafloor.

The extended comment period is now open until Monday, September 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (Pacific).

How to Comment

Comments may be submitted in writing by:

• Online form
• emailed to ules@dsl.oregon.gov">dsl.rules@dsl.oregon.gov
• mailed to DSL (Attn: Rules Coordinator) at 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301

Visit the DSL website for all rulemaking materials, including a draft of the proposed rules, all related materials from the rulemaking advisory committee, prior public hearings, and comments DSL received through the original close date of August 3. Comments received during the extended comment period will be available online after the close of public comment on September 21.

What Happens Next?

After the comment period closes and comments are addressed, proposed rules will be presented at an upcoming meeting of the State Land Board for a decision. The public may provide additional testimony at that time.

DSL anticipates presenting these rules at the December 8, 2026 meeting of the Land Board, visit the DSL website for current meeting information and testimony guidance.

If adopted, these proposed rules and fees are anticipated to go into effect in January 2027.

Additional Background

Why are Changes Needed?

For decades, cables have been installed on the bottom of Oregon’s territorial sea—the area of the Pacific Ocean extending from the shoreline to three nautical miles offshore. These cables, often called “undersea” or “submarine” cables, carry global data through optical fibers and are placed on, attached to, or buried beneath the seafloor. In the future, similar infrastructure may also include power transmission cables and pipelines to serve purposes like carrying electricity from offshore wind turbines to shore.

DSL, with approval from the State Land Board, issues easements for use of the territorial sea. DSL is one of several agencies with a regulatory role in the territorial sea, but the administrative rules guiding DSL’s work are out of date.

Oregon’s administrative rules governing these easements have not been comprehensively updated in 25 years. Since then, undersea infrastructure technology has evolved significantly, including the development of SMART cables that support both data transmission and sensors for ocean monitoring. In addition, Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan Part Four was updated in 2023, and Senate Bill 793 now requires DSL to set application and compensation fees for easements associated with water, gas, electric, and communication infrastructure in the territorial sea. These changes in technology, policy, and state law make updates to the rules necessary.

What’s Proposed

• Alignment with Oregon’s ocean resource management goals. Proposed updates align DSL’s easement review and authorization processes with Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan Part Four and other applicable state policies governing uses of the seafloor.
• Enhanced application requirements. Applicants would be required to provide additional information during project planning and review, including resource and use inventories, effects evaluations, decommissioning plans, emergency response plans, and information about potential encroachments. Early coordination through pre-application meetings and the Joint Agency Review Team would help identify information needs and potential issues before applications are submitted.
• A cooperative review framework. Updates would support collaboration among applicants, state and federal agencies, Tribal governments, and local communities. Clearer requirements and review procedures would provide greater transparency and predictability throughout the process.
• New fee structure. A new structure for application fees will support sustainable funding for the interagency application review. New compensation fees allow use of Oregon’s territorial sea while compensating Oregonians for the usage of this public resource. Revenues go to the Common School Fund.

See the notice of rules filing and the proposed rules, as well as a summary of proposed fees.

Learn more about the Rulemaking Advisory Committee

A rulemaking advisory committee was convened from February through June 2026 to inform the proposed changes, and a summary of RAC input can be found here.

ROSEBURG, Ore. - A Roseburg man has been arrested and lodged in the Douglas County Jail on multiple sex abuse charges involving a minor. 

On August 26, 2026, Oregon Department of Human Services Child Welfare Division received a report of past sex abuse of a minor. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office was notified and launched an investigation. 
 

Through their investigation, detectives developed probable cause for the arrest of 30-year-old Derikk Ross Killcy of Roseburg. During an interview with detectives on Thursday, September 3, 2026, Killcy admitted to sexually abusing a minor child known to him. At the time the crimes were committed, the child was approximately 4-5 years old. 

Killcy was arrested and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges: 
 

• First Degree Rape (12 counts)
• First Degree Sodomy (12 counts)
• First Degree Sex Abuse (12 counts)
• First Degree Unlawful Sexual Penetration

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at 541-440-4458.

CANYONVILLE, Ore. - A Roseburg man died in a single vehicle crash in Canyonville Tuesday evening. 

On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, shortly before 8:00 p.m., 911 dispatchers received a report of a single vehicle crash in the 7000-block of Tiller Trail Highway outside Canyonville. 

Deputies arrived to locate a 1986 Ford F-150 pickup which had left the roadway and struck a tree. Fire and EMS personnel at the scene determined that the sole occupant, 56-year-old Derek Edward Knuuttila of Roseburg, was deceased at the scene. 

Alcohol is suspected to be a contributing factor in the fatal crash.

The Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office was notified along with next of kin. 

The Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by Days Creek Fire, South Umpqua Fire, Riddle Fire Department and Umpqua Valley Ambulance. 

MEDFORD, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging a Creswell, Oregon, man after allegedly assaulting a federal officer and damaging the federal building in Eugene, Oregon, last January.

Trenton Alexander Van Zoeren, 19, has been charged with assault of a federal officer involving physical contact, aggravated assault on a federal employee causing bodily injury, and willfully injuring or committing any depredation against property of the United States.

According to court documents, on January 14 and 21, 2026, Van Zoeren damaged a window at the Eugene federal building. On January 28, 2026, Van Zoeren assaulted a Federal Protective Service officer.

Van Zoeren made his initial appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on December 7, 2026.

If convicted, Van Zoeren faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI and Federal Protective Service are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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On September 3, 2026, Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) detectives added a first-degree arson charge against a man already in custody following his arrest for a separate brush fire and theft.

The investigation began on August 28, 2026, when CCSO deputies arrested 31-year-old Josue Paredes Merino on multiple charges, including second-degree theft and reckless burning.

At approximately 7:15 p.m., a witness called 911 to report seeing Paredes Merino start a brush fire near the 4000 block of NE 119th Avenue, near the Interstate 205 overpass. The fire burned less than 200 square feet before Clark County Fire District 6 extinguished it. No other property was damaged.

Deputies later located Paredes Merino after he allegedly stole a bicycle from a nearby residence. The victim confronted Paredes Merino and held him at gunpoint near the 2200 block of Brookview Drive until deputies arrived and took him into custody.

Approximately two hours before the brush fire was reported, Clark County Fire District 5 responded to a large fire at Furniture World SW, 7017 NE Saint Johns Road. Multiple people were inside the business when the fire began and were able to safely evacuate. Damage to the business is estimated at more than $640,000.

The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated the Furniture World fire and determined it was intentionally set, identifying two separate areas of origin. Investigators also located surveillance video showing a person matching Paredes Merino’s description near an area where the fire is believed to have started.

Based on the Fire Marshal’s investigation and additional follow-up by detectives with the CCSO Tactical Detective Unit, Paredes Merino was charged on September 3 with first-degree arson (RCW 9A.48.020) in connection with the Furniture World fire.

Paredes Merino is also a person of interest in a third fire that occurred around the same time in an area between the Furniture World fire and the brush fire. That incident remains under investigation.

Paredes Merino remains in custody at the Clark County Jail.

A Joint Release from Douglas County Parks, Oregon State Marine Board and Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Cooper Creek County Park Boat Dock Improvements Completed; Facilities Reopen Friday

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Parks, in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW), are pleased to announce the completion of the Cooper Creek County Park Boat Dock Replacement Project.  The west boat ramp, dock and parking lot will reopen to the public on Friday, September 4, 2026, just in time for the Labor Day weekend.

The project included the replacement of the park’s aging East and West boat docks, parking lot paving and related accessibility improvements.  The upgrades were designed to improve public safety, accessibility and the overall recreational experience for boaters and visitors to Cooper Creek County Park.  Construction began in June with improvements to the East Boat Ramp and continued in July with the closure of the West Boat Ramp to accommodate construction activities. During the project, Douglas County Parks worked closely with its project partners and contractors to maintain public boating access by keeping at least one launch facility available throughout the construction process.  With the reopening of the West Boat Ramp, both the East and West boat ramps and docks will once again be open and available for public use.

“We are excited to have this important project completed and to welcome the public back to the West Boat Ramp in time for Labor Day weekend,” said Douglas County Parks Director, Mark Wall. “These improvements will provide safer, more accessible and better-quality facilities for our community and visitors who enjoy Cooper Creek Reservoir. We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation while this work was underway.”

Douglas County extends its appreciation to Topper Industries I, LLC, which completed the dock replacement work, and JRT Construction, LLC, which completed the paving improvements.  The project was completed on time and under budget.  The County also thanks the Oregon State Marine Board, Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, and the numerous funding partners who helped make these improvements possible.  Project funding was provided through OSMB Boating Facility Grant using funds paid by motorized boaters, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sport Fish Restoration funds administered through ODFW, the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby, the Sutherlin Rotary Club and matching Douglas County Parks revenue funds.

The reopening comes just in time for the Labor Day holiday weekend, providing visitors with full access to the improved boating facilities at the 166-acre Cooper Creek Reservoir.  Douglas County Parks reminds visitors to use caution as they return to the newly improved facilities and to follow all posted signs and park rules.

Cooper Creek County Park is located approximately three miles southeast of Sutherlin and provides recreational access to Cooper Creek Reservoir. Douglas County operates and maintains the facilities at Cooper Creek Reservoir through a long-standing inter-governmental agreement with the Sutherlin Water Control District.  The Douglas County Parks Department was established in 1949 and was the first County Park system in Oregon. Today, the Park system encompasses 70 properties, including 23 boat ramps, 11 campgrounds and 42 day-use parks. 

For more information about Douglas County Parks, visit Douglas County Parks.

For more information about the OSMB visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/pages/index.aspx.

For more information about ODFW visit https://www.dfw.state.or.us/

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Media Contacts:

Tamara Howell | Chief Public Information Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Ashley Massey | Public Information Officer | Business Services Section | Oregon State Marine Board | Office: (503) 378-8587 | Email: ashley.massey@boat.oregon.gov

Meghan Dugan | Public Information Officer | Marine Program & West Region | Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife | Office: (541) 464-2179 | Email: Meghan.C.DUGAN@odfw.oregon.gov.

Attached Photos: K. Rodriguez/Douglas County.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office wants to address a statement released by Redmond Fire regarding the September 2 incident east of Redmond and provide additional information to the community. Redmond Fire stated that “no action was taken by DCSO.” This is not accurate.

A DCSO deputy responded to the fire call and was actively involved in the incident. While fire personnel directed individuals to extinguish prohibited burning, an individual approached the deputy and disclosed an outstanding warrant. The deputy confirmed the warrant and made an arrest on scene while the fire response was underway.

At the same time, deputies were handling two separate priority incidents: one involving a suicidal subject who was reported to be armed, and another involving an alleged person crime. These calls required immediate attention and affected the number of deputies available to respond directly to the fire location.

In addition to the on‑scene arrest, the Sheriff’s Office initiated a criminal investigation into the prohibited fire activity. That investigation remains open, and enforcement decisions will be made once it is complete.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office maintains a strong working relationship with all public safety agencies in the region, including Redmond Fire, and will continue to work collaboratively on incidents of this nature.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man pleaded guilty today for assaulting a federal employee at Pioneer Courthouse.

Jett Avery Thomas, 42, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault on a federal employee causing bodily injury, aggravated assault on a federal employee with a dangerous weapon, and aggravated assault on a federal employee involving physical contact, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

According to court documents, on the morning of July 3, 2023, Thomas threw an object at the Pioneer Federal Courthouse in downtown Portland. After a court security officer attempted to address him, Thomas climbed over the fence and charged up the front steps of the courthouse. The officer retreated into the courthouse and attempted to secure the door behind him. Before he could do so, Thomas grabbed the door, forced it open, and assaulted the officer by punching him in the head. The struggle continued outside the door, where Thomas continued assaulting the officer, striking him with a hard object and placing him in a chokehold. The officer accessed his service weapon and fired two shots into Thomas’ torso.

Thomas was arrested, provided first aid, and transported to a local hospital where he underwent surgery for his injuries. The officer was also transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his injuries and later released.

On August 1, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 3-count indictment charging Thomas with aggravated assault on a federal employee causing bodily injury, aggravated assault on a federal employee with a dangerous weapon, and aggravated assault on a federal employee involving physical contact.

Thomas faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

He will be sentenced on December 16, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service with assistance from the Federal Protective Service and Portland Police Bureau. It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

An earlier version of the Tsunami Vertical Evacuation Structure Guidance included an unclear statement on page 21, which has now been corrected to clarify that the projected survival statistics apply only to people within the tsunami inundation zone, not the entire population of Seaside.

Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR (pictured) has an integrated tsunami vertical evacuation structure built into the building. Photo Credit: Oregon State University.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) announces the publication of Oregon’s Tsunami Vertical Evacuation Structure (VES) Guidance, a new resource designed to help coastal communities reduce loss of life during a locally-generated tsunami.

“Oregon’s coastal communities face some of the most urgent tsunami risks in the nation, and this guidance provides several considerations for tsunami safety that can inform locally driven solutions,” OEM Director Erin McMahon, said. “By combining the latest hazard science with practical planning, design and engagement tools, the Vertical Evacuation Structure Guidance outlines the advantages and disadvantages of options taking into consideration community, geography, and cost to further assist communities in implementing these lifesaving projects. This resource reflects strong collaboration across state, federal and local partners, and we appreciate the expertise and dedication that made it possible.”

Ground shaking during a major Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) earthquake may last three minutes or longer. In as little as ten minutes after the earthquake shaking begins, a tsunami will begin to inundate coastal communities across Oregon, Washington, Northern California and British Columbia. For some communities, even evacuating toward natural high ground as soon as the shaking stops may not be enough—the distance is simply too great.

Strategically placed vertical evacuation structures can shorten the distance to high ground, saving hundreds and potentially even thousands of lives. These engineered facilities—towers, berms, specially designed buildings, or other elevated platforms—provide refuge above anticipated tsunami flooding and can offer critical protection when seconds matter.

The newly released guidance integrates hazard science, evacuation modeling, planning and design considerations, community engagement strategies, funding opportunities, and regulatory requirements to support informed local decision-making. It outlines how to assess need, explore options, and move projects from concept through design and implementation.

Key components of the guidance include:

• Cascadia and tsunami hazard explanation
• Current evacuation timelines, delays and challenges
• Vertical evacuation options such as buildings, towers and berms
• Case studies from existing and emerging VES projects
• Planning and implementation frameworks
• Community engagement tools and approaches
• Funding and financing strategies
• Technical and interdisciplinary expertise needed for VES development
• Regulatory requirements, including tsunami design provisions and Oregon’s Tsunami Hazard Overlay Zone
• Mapping resources and interactive GIS tools

Acknowledgment of Partnership

Development of this guidance was a collaborative effort led by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, with support from NOAA’s National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program and FEMA’s Emergency Management Performance Grant program.

OEM extends its sincere appreciation to the project leads, coordinators, and partner agencies whose expertise, review, and contributions informed this document. Their collective effort and commitment were essential to shaping the recommendations and resources now available to Oregon communities.

24-year-old Grant Lee Goodell (Toledo, OR) was sentenced following his guilty plea to four felony child sex offenses having occurred throughout 2023.

On September 1, 2026, Goodell pled guilty to Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, Luring a Minor, Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, and Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct. Specifically, Goodell admitted he engaged in sexual conversations with a minor on SnapChat and induced that minor to create and send photographs of themself engaging in sexually explicit conduct to Goodell. Goodell also admitted to engaging in a sexual act with that minor and possessing child sex abuse material (CSAM), more commonly referred to as child pornography.  

Goodell was sentenced to a total of 86 months in prison, followed by three years of post-prison supervision. Goodell will also be required to register as a sex offender following his release from prison.  

Goodell was recently convicted in Benton County of similar charges involving two additional minors. Goodell was sentenced in Benton County to 70 months prison after pleading guilty to three counts of Attempting to Use Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct, Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree, and Luring a Minor. A portion of this sentence will run concurrently with his sentence in Lincoln County, for a total prison sentence of approximately 10 years (121 months).

Goodell also has prior convictions for Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, and Driving While Suspended from 2021/2022.

Children deserve protection, victims deserve justice, and those who prey upon children will be held accountable. Protecting children from sexual exploitation is one of the highest priorities of the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office. We also encourage parents, caregivers, educators, and members of the community to not only discuss the presence and risks of online predators but also report any suspected child exploitation to law enforcement. A timely report can help protect a child and preserve critical evidence.

PRESS RELEASE

CONTACT: Mo Montgomery

OWF External Communications Manager

mo@myOWF.org

(559) 313-9442

September 3, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wildlife on the Move: Oregon Drivers Urged to “Watch for Wildlife” This Fall

PORTLAND, Ore. — As deer, elk, and other wildlife begin their fall migration, the Oregon Wildlife Foundation reminds drivers to stay alert, helping prevent collisions.

Each year, an estimated 5,000 large animals are struck and killed on Oregon roads, with accidents peaking in October and November as deer and elk migrate to their lower elevation habitat. Collisions not only threaten wildlife but also endanger the safety of motorists.

“Fall is a wonderful time of year in Oregon and a great excuse to slow down, take in the scenery, and look around for wildlife”, said Tim Greseth, Executive Director of Oregon Wildlife Foundation.

Drivers can reduce the risk of a collision by slowing down at dawn and dusk, particularly in areas with wildlife crossing signs, and by avoiding sudden swerves. When an animal is seen trying to cross a road, chances are high that others will follow.

Proceeds from the sale and renewal of the Watch for Wildlife specialty license plate support projects that help animals move between habitat patches, including across Oregon’s highways and roads. Wildlife passage projects have included dedicated undercrossings and overcrossings, as well as modifications to existing bridges and culverts.

“There are almost 80,000 miles of public roads and highways in Oregon. That, coupled with the basic needs all animals have, puts them and us in harm’s way. That’s doubly true during migration season as deer, elk, and other species are moving in greater numbers from their higher elevation summer habitat to lower elevations where they’ll spend the winter,” said Greseth.

Oregonians can order the Watch for Wildlife plate through the DMV or visit myowf.org/watchforwildlife to learn more about how plate sales fund habitat connectivity projects, including wildlife passage efforts across Oregon. 

Happy with your current plate but still want to support habitat connectivity and wildlife passage projects? Consider a donation to Oregon Wildlife Foundation’s Wildlife Migration and Movement Fund (formerly known as the Watch for Wildlife Fund) via Donate Now | Oregon Wildlife Foundation. 

For more information on wildlife movement in Oregon, visit myowf.org/wildlifemoves.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an apolitical operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information, visit www.myowf.org.

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September 3, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Siletz Bay health advisory issued Sept. 3

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Siletz Bay in Lincoln County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff
• Sewer overflows
• Failing septic systems
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Siletz Bay, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

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Bend, Ore.— Oregon State Parks will close a section of the Base Trail on the north side of Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint near Pilot Butte Middle School from Sept. 8 to Oct. 9 to replace the stairs on this steep section of trail.

Visitors can join the base trail to the east of the closure via the Larkspur Trail or west of the closure by Juniper Elementary School.

Oregon State Parks is completing this construction in partnership with Deschutes Trails Coalition. Deschutes Trails Coalition will be leading the project with support from State Park staff to upgrade a stair section of the trail, improving safety and long-term sustainability. Funding comes from a grant awarded through the Bend Sustainability Fund.

The closed section of trail will be fenced off for safety. Please respect the closure area and hike on other parts of the trail.

Boat ramp and water temporarily closed Saturday, September 12 and Sunday September 13 from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

CLATSOP COUNTY, OR — The Columbia Outboard Racing Association will host the Annual ‘Battle at the Sea’ at Cullaby Lake County Park on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, 2026.

The boat ramp and racecourse on Cullaby Lake will be closed to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

The races are free for the public to view from the park, which will also be open for picnicking and other activities. A $5 day-use parking fee applies for County Park entry.

For more information, visit Clatsop County Parks.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of such information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual listed below has been convicted of a sex offense requiring registration with the Oregon State Police. Based on their criminal history, this person has been classified at a level indicating a potential to re-offend.

This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather to support public awareness and safety.

NAME: Xavier Deleon-Carbajal
SID#: 11864013
DOB: 4/15/1977
Current Age: 48
Race: Mixed

Sex: Male
Height: 5’06”
Weight: 220lbs
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown

Residence:

170 17^TH ST SE

SALEM, OR 97301

Supervision Status:

Xavier Deleon-Carbajal is on Post Prison Supervision for the crimes of: Rape I, Sexual Penetration I X2, Sodomy I and Sex Abuse II. Previous sex offense conviction when Deleon-Carbajal was a juvenile: Contributing Sexual Delinquency of a Minor. Xavier Deleon-Carbajal has prior non-sexual convictions.

This person was granted supervision on: 7/14/2025

Supervision expiration date is: 3/13/2037

Victim Information:

Xavier Deleon-Carbajal has two victims, age 13 when he was a juvenile and age 17 as an adult, both were known to him.  

Special Conditions:
☒ No contact with minors
☒ Do not frequent places where minors congregate

☒ No contact with victims

RICHLAND, Wash. — Students and community members seeking jobs or internships will have the opportunity to meet with area employers at the Washington State University Tri-Cities Career and Internship Fair, happening 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 21. The event will be held on the WSU Tri-Cities campus in the Consolidated Information Center. Registration for both employers and participants is now open.

Thanks to the collaboration of WorkSource and Columbia Basin College, local organizations from a wide variety of industries are slated to attend, giving ample opportunity for students and community members to connect with recruiters who are looking to hire. Attendees seeking employment opportunities should come prepared with copies of resumes, as well as other documents they may wish to share.

John Navarro, WSU Tri-Cities Career Center coordinator, said the event is an opportunity to strengthen connections between students, employers and the broader community. “Events like this allow students to build confidence, explore career opportunities and make meaningful connections, while also giving employers an opportunity to see the talent and potential we have here at WSU Tri-Cities and throughout our community,” Navarro said. “It’s about bringing people together, creating connections and helping employers see what’s possible when we work together as a campus and as a community.”

Interested employers that wish to have a booth at the event must register by Oct. 16. For more information regarding the event, including registration links, visit: tricities.wsu.edu/event/fall-2026-career-internship-fair.

Sisters, Ore. -- On Wednesday, September 2, Deschutes County 911 received a Garmin SOS activation near Golden Lake in the Three Sisters Wilderness Area. The reporting party, a 56‑year‑old woman from Silverton, Oregon, stated she was becoming hypothermic and required assistance.

At 12:51 p.m., Search and Rescue volunteers were dispatched. SAR members hiked approximately 6.5 miles through high winds, rain, and snow before locating the woman at 5:42 p.m. Volunteers provided dry clothing and warming blankets, then assisted her in walking back to the trailhead.

The woman was able to drive into town, where she stayed overnight to rest and recover. No injuries other than cold exposure were reported.

The Sheriff's Office commends our SAR volunteers for their commitment and professionalism in bringing this woman to safety under deteriorating weather conditions and a long return hike. SAR encourages all backcountry hikers to check weather forecasts, be prepared, tell someone their plans, and carry a reliable satellite communication device.

###
 

After months of investigation stemming from a CyberTipline Report from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Data System, 29-year-old Jeremy Braden Williams was arrested this morning at his residence in the 800 block of Foothill Ct NE, Keizer.  Mr. Williams was taken into custody without incident at 7:50am.

Mr. Williams is an employee with the Salem-Keizer School District and is employed as an instructional assistant at McNary High School.  The school district is aware of the arrest and questions surrounding his employment should be directed to their Human Resources Department.

Mr. Williams was transported to the Keizer Police Department where detectives interviewed him.  He was then transported to the Marion County Correctional Facility where he was lodged for multiple counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree which is a felony offense.

Bend, Ore -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office’s Central Oregon Partnerships for Youth (COPY) program has released its annual highlights for the 2025–2026 reporting period, reflecting continued growth in volunteer engagement and meaningful support for youth who have a family member involved in the criminal justice system. 

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
 

September is National Preparedness Month and a great reminder to prepare for the unexpected. Disasters and emergencies can strike anytime; sometimes leaving our communities without adequate aid for hours, days, or even weeks. Take time this month to review your emergency plans and supplies.

Due to potential local wildfires, storms, floods, or landslides it is recommended that all Oregonians be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks. For coastal residents, like Lincoln County, it is recommended to be “4 Weeks Cascadia Ready” in preparation for a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. This means your household has enough food, water, medical supplies, sanitation supplies, and other life-sustaining resources to meet your needs for at least four weeks. In a major disaster such as a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, supply chain, responders, and transportation would be disrupted. Our communities need to be prepared to take care of each other until assistance is available.
 

Be Informed

• Know about possible hazards that can occur where you live.
• Be familiar with local evacuation routes.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts through Lincoln Alerts.

Make an Emergency Plan

• Talk with family and friends about what to do, including if you’re not together during an emergency.
• Practice your plan at different times and on different days. What will you do if you are at home, work, school, or at another location?
• Plan to check on your neighbors or vulnerable community members and offer assistance if possible.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Create an emergency kit or update your existing one.
• Some supplies include:
  • at least 4 weeks supply of food and water for each person and any pets. Remember to include water for drinking, sanitation, and preparing meals if needed.
  • battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
  • flashlight
  • first aid kit
  • extra batteries
  • whistle (to signal for help)
  • dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) and face coverings
  • plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
  • moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
  • wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
  • manual can opener (for food)
  • local maps
  • cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

 More preparedness information and resources:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management – Plan and Prepare Resources
• Be Ready – Make a Plan
• Be Ready – Build a Kit
• CDC – Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Red Cross – How to Prepare for Emergencies
• Oregon Emergency Management – 2 Weeks Ready

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

###

September 3, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Mill Beach health advisory issued Sept. 3

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Mill Beach in Curry County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff.
• Sewer overflows.
• Failing septic systems.
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Mill Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

###

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (3 September 2026) – On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at approximately 9:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash on Highway 126W near milepost 48 in Lane County. 

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Toyota Tacoma pickup, operated by Christian Michael McCawley (24) of Elmira, was traveling westbound on Highway 126W when it struck a pedestrian, later identified as Robert Bryan Richardson (52) of Veneta, who was walking westbound in the westbound lane of travel. This portion of roadway is unlit, and Richardson was wearing dark-colored clothing.

The pedestrian (Richardson) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The driver of the Toyota (McCawley) was not injured. 

Highway 126W was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Lane Fire Authority, the Lane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.       
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

COOS COUNTY, Ore. (3 September 2026) – On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at approximately 9:05 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle-versus-pedestrian collision on Highway 241 near Chamberlain Road in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Forest River motorhome, operated by Mary Geen Murphy (76) of Coos Bay, was traveling northbound on Highway 241 when it struck a pedestrian, identified as Robert Andrew Gallagher (61) of Coos Bay, who was in the northbound lane of travel. The area is unlit and witness statements indicated Gallagher was crossing the roadway without reflective clothing or any lighting. 

The pedestrian (Gallagher) was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The operator of the motorhome (Murphy) was not injured. 

Highway 241 was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation. 

OSP was assisted by Coos Bay Fire & Rescue, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.     
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 – FlashAlert announces a new feature for media organizations that may be helpful to your newsroom.

To prevent smaller media outlets from being overwhelmed by out‑of‑area content, FlashAlert allows our client organizations to target their news releases to specific markets - even down to smaller individual cities such as South Lane, Oregon or Chehalis, Washington. When a client chooses only to send their release to those smaller markets, media outlets outside of that market will not receive the release (e.g. a small business serving Troutdale, Oregon could choose to send a release just to Troutdale resulting in Portland media not receiving it even though Troutdale is in the Portland / Vancouver / Salem region).

We’ve now introduced an override option for media outlets that want broader visibility.

Your newsroom can choose to automatically receive all releases sent to any region you select, even if the originating organization did not include your hometown market city when posting. For example, if you want to receive every release sent to the Portland/Vancouver/Salem region - or even every release sent anywhere in Colorado, Oregon or Washington - we can enable that.

If this is of interest, simply send an email to t@flashalert.net">support@flashalert.net and let us know which regions you would like to receive all releases from:

• Bend / Central–Eastern Oregon
• Boise / Southern Idaho
• Colorado Springs / Pueblo
• Columbia (Pendleton / Tri‑Cities / Yakima)
• Eugene / Springfield / Roseburg / Albany / Corvallis
• Medford / Klamath Falls / Grants Pass
• Portland / Vancouver / Salem
• Spokane / Eastern Washington / North Idaho

This feature is completely optional. If your current setup is working well, no changes will be made.

Additionally, we want to hear from YOU:

• What can FlashAlert do to help make your news team more efficient?
• Are there features or capabilities you would like to see added to the FlashAlert network?
• Do you have any other comments or suggestions?

Your feedback is incredibly valuable to the ongoing development of new features and streamlined efficiency.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in the FlashAlert network. We couldn't do what we do without you.

Sincerely,

Eric Jacobson
CEO – FlashAlert / irx, LLC

Police have identified the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run crash that killed Miguel Jimenez.  Jimenez was working as a flagger in Gresham early Monday morning when he was struck by a vehicle travelling through the construction site.  Using surveillance video, including footage captured by city-owned public safety cameras, investigators were able to identify the vehicle involved in the crash.

Early Wednesday afternoon, officers with the Vancouver Police Department located the vehicle at an apartment complex in Vancouver, Washington.  Gresham police officers and criminalists responded to the scene in Vancouver.  The vehicle has been seized as evidence.

The investigation is ongoing.  No arrests have been made at this time. 

The Gresham Police Department would like to thank the community and our partners with the Vancouver Police Department for their assistance with this investigation.     

Sisters, Ore. -- On Wednesday, September 2, at approximately 2:33 p.m., deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to a single‑vehicle crash northeast of Sisters on Wilt Road, east of Fair Mile Lane.

The vehicle involved was a white 2018 Ford F-150 pickup that had been traveling eastbound on Wilt Road when it left the roadway via the northbound shoulder and hit a Ponderosa pine tree. The driver, 82-year-old Frank Halvorsen of Sisters, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

An 81-year-old female passenger sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital by medics from the Sisters–Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Sisters–Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District and the Deschutes County Road Department.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

MEDFORD, Ore. – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) along with the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) served a federal search warrant Wednesday morning in Medford. Investigators served the search warrant after Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) was purchased from a “Darknet” CSAM website. On scene, investigators interviewed potential witnesses and involved parties. Investigators are working to identify the suspect and refer criminal charges to the United States Attorney’s Office.

Federal, State, and local law enforcement served the search warrant Wednesday, September 2 at a residence in the 3000 block of Marilee Street in Medford. The case originated from a CSAM “darknet” investigation where German investigators identified a potential Medford area suspect. During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) for further evidence of child exploitation.

Several local law enforcement agencies assisted with the federal search warrant, including Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Oregon State Police, Medford Police Department (MPD), and the Oregon Department of Justice’s (ODOJ) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.

Investigators continue to examine seized devices and interview witnesses as the investigation moves forward. No further details will be released at this time.

###

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Mexican National, illegally inside the United States, was sentenced to federal prison today for immigration crimes.

Claudia Susana Vargas-Rosas, 39, pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States and was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison and 1 year of supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

According to court documents, Vargas-Rosas was deported in 2018 after serving her sentence in state prison for striking a dependent child with a meat tenderizer.

On September 7, 2023, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents learned that Vargas-Rosas had been arrested and charged with driving under the influence in Washington County, Oregon. Vargas-Rosas’s criminal history includes prior state convictions for Assault IV, possession of a stolen vehicle, and possession of a controlled substance. She has also been arrested for multiple probation violations.

On April 21, 2026, Vargas-Rosas was charged with illegally reentering the United States. Vargas-Rosas made her initial appearance on May 5, 2026, and was detained.

This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

# # #

September 2, 2026

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Kaiser Permanente Mt. Talbert Medical Office is latest measles exposure location

Health officials recommend those who were at location during times, dates consider vaccination if not immune

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Clackamas County health officials are warning the public about a location where people may have been exposed to measles.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following location at this date and time:

• Kaiser Permanente Mt. Talbert Medical Office, first floor, 10100 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, between 10:31 a.m. and 6:07 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29.

People who were at this location during this date and time should check their vaccination records and monitor for signs and symptoms of measles. People born after 1957 who have not had measles and have not been vaccinated against measles should receive an MMR vaccine as soon as possible.

Early administration of MMR should be considered for infants as it offers protection during this time that measles is circulating in Oregon. The first dose of MMR may be given as early as 6–12 months old. Children who receive their first dose of MMR prior to 12 months of age should receive two additional doses separated by at least 28 days after 12 months of age. As the number of measles cases rises, people may reconsider their vaccination decisions and discuss them with their medical providers to make sure they and their family members are adequately protected.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment. Clackamas County residents can schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center. 

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5 years old, adults older than 20 years, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal. The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes).

Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles on OHA’s website.

###

JCSO Case 26-4522

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. –  A high-speed head-on crash seriously injured two drivers Saturday night on West Griffin Creek Road in rural Medford. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested 34-year-old woman for DUII after a trauma blood draw showed a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of .20%, two and a half times the legal limit.

Due to the severity of the crash, the Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team responded to investigate. The preliminary investigation indicates on August 29 at 7:41 PM, the suspect was driving a 2025 Toyota RAV4 at a high rate of speed when she crossed into the oncoming lane for unknown reasons and struck a 2009 Toyota Highlander head-on. Both drivers sustained serious injuries and were trapped inside their vehicles. Medford Fire extricated both patients and Mercy Flights transported them to a local hospital.

To address DUII crashes and other risks of impaired driving, JCSO will join local, state, and regional law enforcement agencies for a Multi-Agency High-Visibility DUII Enforcement Patrol throughout Labor Day Weekend. Additional deputies and officers will be on the road specifically looking for impaired drivers and working to keep our roads safe. The enhanced patrol is supported in part by grant funding from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

If you drive impaired, you risk being stopped and arrested. DUII enforcement remains a priority for JCSO and our law enforcement partners as we work to prevent crashes and save lives on Jackson County roads.

Deputies and officers will be watching for signs of impaired driving, including erratic or reckless driving, speeding, and failing to maintain a lane.

Plan ahead for a safe Labor Day weekend:

Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare or taxi.

If you plan to drink, give your keys to someone sober.

If you’re hosting, make sure your guests have a safe and sober way home.

If you see a suspected impaired driver on the road, call 911.

The STAR Team is a specialized unit dedicated to investigating fatal and complex serious injury collisions. The team operates through a collaborative interagency agreement between JCSO, Medford Police Department, Ashland Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

This enforcement effort is supported in part by grant funding from ODOT and NHTSA.

VALE, OR – Emergency rescue operations begin tomorrow to save wild horses whose health is under immediate threat from severe food and water shortages. The Bureau of Land Management is initiating the lifesaving gather in southeast Oregon, where the animals’ survival is compromised by a lack of resources due to an especially dry winter and recent wildfires.

Currently, there are about 1,200 wild horses in the Sheepshead/Heath Creek Herd Management Area, which can sustainably support roughly 500 to 900 wild horses. Last winter was especially dry, reducing the amount of forage and water available for the oversized herd, and this season’s wildfires exacerbated the situation.

“Ongoing drought has left this herd with only two of the usual 63 water sources available,” said Cassandra Andrews-Fleckenstein, Deputy District Manager for the Vale District. “We are taking this necessary, humane step to prevent widespread suffering and a further decline in the animals’ health.”

The BLM will gather up to 499 horses and transport them to off-range holding facilities, where they will receive veterinary evaluations, appropriate care, high‑quality feed, and continuous access to fresh water. The facilities provide ample space that meets established agency standards. Once they have been evaluated and are ready, some of the horses will be available for adoption through the BLM Online Corral.

The BLM will provide updates about the Sheepshead/Heath Creek Emergency Gather on blm.gov.

Public safety and animal welfare remain top priorities. The Wild Horse and Burro Program is committed to the humane and sustainable management of wild horse populations and their habitats. These drive-trap gather operations are guided by the Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program, which sets handling standards that prioritize the care and well-being of the animals.

Removing these horses from the range will support rangeland health and help the land recover from the recent wildfire, ensuring these areas can continue to provide habitat for wildlife and support multiple land uses. Through collaborative efforts, the program seeks to protect the welfare of wild horses and burros while preserving rangeland ecosystems for future generations.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

A sampling of notable calls for August;

On August 5th, a Milwaukie Motorcycle traffic enforcement officer issued a citation to a female in the Hector Campbell Neighborhod. The Officer later learned the Oregon driver’s license provided by the motorist was reported missing and determined the motorist using the license was not the one identified on it. The Officer located a photo from body worn camera footage and provided it to other officers. On August 7th, a Milwaukie Patrol Officer noticed a female, who bore a strong resemblance to the suspect, driving out of a local apartment complex and observing a traffic violation- stopped the female. The female driver, identified as Hailey Hamby, handed the officer the same fraudulent driver’s license. She was taken into custody and lodged on charges of false information to the police and identity theft. MiPD case 26-4459

On August 7th, Milwaukie Police were dispatched on a 2-vehicle accident in the 2700 block of SE Lake Rd. Officers arrived and found vehicles crashed with one inoperable and both drivers reportedly uninjured. The driver who caused the crash was arrested at the scene on suspicion of DUII. Later at the Milwaukie Police Department, Officers determined the driver had an alleged blood alcohol content of .34, more than four times the legal limit. The driver was too intoxicated for jail, and declined medical transport. The driver was was issued a citation and court date being left in the care of family members. MiPD 26-4473.

On August 21st, A Milwaukie Officer and BHU clinician Trista were transporting a male voluntarily to the clarvida stabilization center on SE McBrod St. Along the way the Officer encountered a male lying in the street across the lane of travel on SE 17th Ave. with as many as 10 vehicles backed up.  When the officer activated the patrol car lights the male got up and got into a verbal altercation with one of the drivers who had stopped to help. The male was found to have a warrant and was taken to jail by another officer. The original Officer of the call and Trista then resumed transport to clarvida and completed intake. BHU and Officers later learned the male transported was successfully transitioned voluntarily to detox by the clarvida staff. Information about the 23-hour stabilization center is located here: https://www.clackamas.us/h3s/stabilization-center

In August, several residents and even non residents received a phone call stating that they missed jury duty and a bond was required to avoid arrest. The caller then instructed those folks to purchase gift card, google play and even bitcoin subsequently asking for those numbers. One victim was defrauded for over $100k. While we do not encourage store employees to intervene in a person’s purchasing matters, over the past week due to aware and concerned retail employees alerting police, three patrons were saved from continuing to pay scammers engaged in this fraud. Shout out to them reaching out for our assistance and stopping further mischief. The Milwaukie Police urges residents to hang up on these fraudsters or take extra precautions such as obtaining call back numbers or calling local authorities to verify suspicious claims like this. If you are unsure about a caller who claims to be law enforcement or the court, verify their agency affiliation (Milwaukie Police, other government enforcement agency..) and request a call back number. If they provide you with one that is not a general or dispatch number, call the general or non-emergency dispatch number for that agency and verify their purpose for the call. Scammers can be very convincing. You will not be called due to missing jury duty and required to pay a fee over the phone, period. Share this message with friends and family you believe may be vulnerable to such foul play.

Tips for avoiding phone scams;

https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/.../telephone_scams.php

Tips for identity theft protection;

https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/departments/police/services/identity_theft_protection_tips.php

Calls for Service : 1817

Full Data:  https://www.milwaukieoregon.gov/departments/police/about/calls_for_service_data.php

Traffic stops: 628

Welfare checks : 89  - total number is initially higher. Officers arrive on a welfare check and the call type is changed to the appropriate disposition based on the situation.

Stabilization Center BHU Referrals – 3

Stabilization Center LEO Referrals – 0

On scene with Police - 20

BHU unique Contacts (Glen/Trista) - TOTAL - 67

Police Report BHU Follow UP –26 encounters

BHU= behavioral health unit

City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website

On Thursday, August 27, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., a juvenile victim ran to the Cornelius Police Department and alerted deputies to an assault that took place near the 1600 block of North Adair Street in Cornelius.

With the information the victim provided, Cornelius and Sheriff’s Office deputies located the suspect, 42-year-old Daniel Le Brun of Cornelius, barricaded within a business at the Plaza Grande business complex. Le Brun was armed with several less-lethal-style guns and knives and refused to surrender.

Responding deputies requested additional support from the Tactical Negotiations Team (TNT), the Crisis Negotiations Unit (CNU), and other crisis-response specialty teams. Using a drone, deputies monitored Le Brun’s movements inside the business complex while negotiators attempted to communicate with him.

At about 1:00 a.m. Friday, TNT members took Le Brun into custody, and deputies transported Le Brun to an area hospital for ingesting a potentially lethal amount of medication. On September 1, Le Brun was discharged from the hospital and taken to the Washington County Jail for the following:

• Attempted murder in the first degree
• Assault in the first degree
• Sex abuse in the first degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon

Further investigation into the crime scene led to the discovery of a concealed room inside the business complex where the crimes occurred. Detectives are concerned that additional victims have not been identified and believe Le Brun had access to children through his affiliation with the memorabilia business.

Detectives want to speak with anyone who witnessed the assault or has information about Le Brun and encourage parents to speak with their children about any contact they have had with him, whether at the store or otherwise. Please contact VCU detectives at 503-846-2500 and reference case number 50-26-12158.

In accordance with Oregon House Bill 3273, the Sheriff’s Office is releasing Le Brun’s booking photo to assist in identifying any additional criminal activity.

September 2, 2026

Media contacts: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Oceanside Beach health advisory issued Sept. 2

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Oceanside Beach in Tillamook County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff.
• Sewer overflows.
• Failing septic systems.
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife.

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Oceanside Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

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SAIF's board of directors has declared a $50 million dividend for policyholders. This marks the 17th consecutive dividend distributed to policyholders and the 29th dividend since 1990. The dividend represents approximately 8.4% of eligible premium. It reflects SAIF's continued financial strength and its commitment to returning value to Oregon employers, when doing so is prudent and consistent with long-term obligations. 

"Our responsibility is to protect the long-term financial strength of the Industrial Accident Fund while supporting Oregon employers and the workers' compensation system they rely on," said Ian Williams, interim president and CEO of SAIF. "This year's dividend declaration reflects a careful evaluation of our financial position, future risks, and economic conditions facing Oregon businesses. We believe this dividend strikes the right balance between returning value today and preserving the financial strength needed to meet our obligations for years to come." 

Workers' compensation insurers must maintain significant financial resources to pay claims that may remain open for decades. As Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurer, SAIF considers many factors when evaluating dividends, including financial performance, capital adequacy, enterprise risks, economic conditions, and long-term obligations to policyholders and injured workers. This year's dividend was supported in part by favorable reserve development recognized in 2025, reflecting a continued decline in claim frequency, among other factors. At the same time, SAIF considered ongoing pressures from rising medical costs, investment uncertainty, and future capital needs.

"Many Oregon employers continue to navigate economic uncertainty, rising costs, and workforce challenges," Williams said. "Returning a measured dividend is one way we can support the businesses that help power Oregon's economy while remaining focused on our mission to make workers' compensation coverage available, affordable, and accessible." 

SAIF remains one of the few insurance providers in Oregon that consistently returns dividends to policyholders. As a not-for-profit company with a public purpose, SAIF is committed to maintaining a healthy and stable workers' compensation system while delivering value to the employers it serves. 

This October, 50,138 eligible policyholders will receive the dividend, which will be calculated based on premium for policies whose terms ended in 2025. 

About SAIF 
SAIF is Oregon's not-for-profit workers' compensation insurance company. For more than 110 years, we've been taking care of injured workers, helping people get back to work, and striving to make Oregon the safest and healthiest place to work. For more information, visit the About SAIF page on saif.com.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED

Salem – Mobile payment apps provide a convenient way to send, receive, and manage money using a smartphone. However, consumers should be aware that scammers are using these services to steal money and gain access to financial accounts. Popular payment apps include Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal. Many mobile payment apps are connected to a consumer’s bank account, debit card, or credit card, making consumers’ accounts a target for fraudsters.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding consumers to be cautious when receiving unexpected payments or when someone contacts them claiming there is a problem with their account.

Beware of “payment sent by mistake” scams

In this scam, a stranger sends money to a consumer through a payment app and then contacts the consumer claiming the payment was sent by mistake. The scammer asks the consumer to send the money back as a new payment. Cybercriminals may use stolen credit card or financial account information to make the initial payment appear legitimate. If the consumer sends the money back, the original fraudulent payment may later be reversed, leaving the consumer responsible for the money they sent to the scammer.

DFR advises consumers:

• Never exchange payments with people you do not know.
• If you receive a payment from someone you do not know, directly contact the payment app’s customer support. Customer support can help determine whether the payment is legitimate and explain how to properly reverse or address the transaction.
• Do not communicate with the person who sent the unexpected payment. Scammers may use emotional stories or pressure tactics to convince consumers to send money.

Watch out for fake payment app representatives

Scammers may also impersonate customer service representatives from payment apps. They may call or text consumers claiming that an unauthorized transaction has occurred or that someone is attempting to access their account. The scammer may say they need to “secure” the account and ask for sensitive information, including a password or a verification code sent to the consumer’s phone.

If you receive a call or message like this:

• Never provide a verification code sent to your phone to anyone.
• Never share your password or other account credentials with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Do not click on links or use phone numbers provided in unsolicited messages.
• Contact the payment app directly using the official app or website to verify whether there is actually a problem with your account.

Legitimate customer service representatives will never ask for a verification code that was sent to the consumer’s phone to authenticate an account. Taking a moment to stop and verify an unexpected payment, phone call, or text can help prevent consumers from losing money to fraud.

Imposter scams

Fraudsters try to replicate a profile picture on a fake account to impersonate your friend, co-worker, potential new employer, landlord, or even a love interest. They pretend to be someone in your social circle and request money.

What to do if this happens to you:

• Contact the real person outside of the payment app to make sure it came from them or call them on the phone number you have. The fraudster may provide you with a new number, but don’t fall for it.
• If you don’t know the person, never give money to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Check the creation date and transaction history. If it’s a brand new account with no transaction history, it might be a scam.

“Payment apps make it easier than ever to move money, but that convenience can also make it easier for scammers to target consumers,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Scammers know how to create a sense of urgency and trust, whether they claim a payment was sent by mistake, pretend to be a customer service representative, or impersonate someone you know. The best protection is to stop, verify who you are dealing with, and never send money until you are certain the request is legitimate.”

If you believe you have been a target of a financial scam, contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 or .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is partnering with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services to provide local assistance when cougars, coyotes, bears, beavers, and other wildlife create problems for residents, property owners and agricultural operations.

The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners approved a cooperative services agreement with USDA Wildlife Services in August. The program is designed to reduce wildlife-related damage and address human health and safety concerns.

Under the agreement, Clatsop County will contribute up to $40,000 for the 2026-27 fiscal year. Federal and state funding will provide an additional $13,776.59, bringing the total value of the Clatsop County program to $53,776.59.

Clatsop County's resources will be combined with funding from Columbia County and federal resources to support a Wildlife Services Specialist serving both counties.

How Wildlife Services Can Help

USDA Wildlife Services provides technical assistance and, when needed, direct wildlife management to address conflicts involving cougars, bears, coyotes, beavers, and other wildlife.

Assistance may include advice, training, and recommendations for property owners. When those steps are not enough, Wildlife Services may take direct action focused on specific problem animals or localized groups.

Methods are selected based on factors including safety, humaneness, effectiveness, and legality.

All activities must comply with applicable state and federal laws, and work on private property requires an agreement with the landowner, lessee, or property administrator.

Residents who need assistance with a wildlife conflict can call 971-495-1482.

More information about the USDA Wildlife Services program is available at the national Wildlife Services website: www.aphis.usda.gov/wildlife-services.

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The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of such information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual listed below has been convicted of a sex offense requiring registration with the Oregon State Police. Based on their criminal history, this person has been classified at a level indicating a potential to re-offend.

This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather to support public awareness and safety.

NAME: Matthew E Waterbury
SID#: 13228216
DOB: 12/23/1981
Current Age: 44
Race: White

Sex: Male
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 180lbs
Hair: Blonde
Eyes: Hazel

Residence:

1880 Center St NE 

Salem, OR 97301

Supervision Status:

Matthew E Waterbury is on Post Prison Supervision for the crimes of: Felon in Possession of a Weapon and Delivery of Heroin

This person was granted supervision on: 02/02/2026

Supervision expiration date is: 02/01/2028

Victim Information:

Waterbury was convicted of Sex Abuse II and his sexual offending history includes an adult female that was unknown to him.

Special Conditions:
☒ No contact with minors
☒ Do not frequent places where minors congregate

☒ No use or possession of intoxicating substances

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of such information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual listed below has been convicted of a sex offense requiring registration with the Oregon State Police. Based on their criminal history, this person has been classified at a level indicating a potential to re-offend.

This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather to support public awareness and safety.

NAME: Steven Anthony Kidd
SID#: 18107825
DOB: 08/27/1992
Current Age: 33
Race: Black
Sex: Male
Height: 6’01”
Weight: 190lbs
Hair: Black
Eyes: Brown

Residence:

395 14TH ST NE

SALEM, OR  97301

Supervision Status:

Steven Anthony Kidd is on Probation for the crime of Strangulation.

This person was granted supervision on: 12/02/2024

Supervision expiration date is: 12/01/2026

Victim Information:

Kidd’s criminal history includes the crime of Sex Trafficking of a Minor.

The Medford Police Department is identifying the two suspects arrested in connection with an armed robbery at Walgreens and a subsequent vehicle pursuit on September 1, 2026.

On August 30, 2026, at approximately 8:45 p.m., MPD responded to a reported armed robbery at the Walgreens on West Main Street. Store employees reported confronting a male and female who were attempting to leave the store with a shopping cart full of unpaid merchandise. During the confrontation, the female suspect allegedly produced a handgun, pointed it at an employee, and threatened to shoot.

The suspects left the area in a white midsize SUV with a black roof rack. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects or vehicle at that time. Security footage corroborated employee statements, and investigators obtained video and still images of the suspects and involved vehicle.

On September 1, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m., an MPD officer located the suspected vehicle near Sage Road and Highway 238. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver fled at a high rate of speed.

Due to the nature of the underlying armed robbery investigation, officers initiated a pursuit. The vehicle traveled through several areas before entering Interstate 5 northbound. MPD officers were assisted by the Oregon State Police and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

The pursuit continued northbound on Interstate 5, where multiple attempts to deploy spike strips were made. Spike strips were successfully deployed near milepost 54, and the suspect vehicle came to a stop. Both occupants were taken into custody. Interstate 5 traffic was significantly slowed during the incident but has since reopened.

After an extensive investigation, including the successful use of Automated License Plate Reader technology, Detectives have lodged Sharlene Elizabeth Paul, 49, and Cody Katcheech, 36, at the Jackson County Jail on charges related to both the August 30 Walgreens robbery and the September 1 vehicle elude.

Sharlene Elizabeth Paul:

• Robbery in the First Degree
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon x 2
• Kidnap in the First Degree
• Elude (Vehicle)
• Reckless Driving
• Theft in the Second Degree

Cody Katcheech:

• Probation Violation
• Felony Driving While Suspended
• Theft in the Second Degree

This case has been referred to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. As this continues to be an ongoing investigation, there will be no further information released at this time.

On August 30^th at approximately 12:45 PM, Milwaukie Officers were called to an unknown if injury accident between a juvenile on an electric motorcycle and a vehicle. Officers arrived and learned an adult driver who was attempting to turn into the Milwaukie pioneer cemetery on SE 17^th Ave. collided with the e-motorcycle. The juvenile was knocked off the motorcycle and was wearing a helmet. The juvenile was alert, walking and speaking and was transported to a local hospital out of an abundance of caution. The driver reported the e-motorcycle was travelling at a perceived higher speed than expected.

While Officers were evaluating the scene along with Clackamas Fire, the e-motorcycle had a malfunction and began to smoke and catch on fire. Police set a safety perimeter while Clackamas Fire crews managed and extinguished the thermal runaway fire.

Video: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/14vUzJpTE3R/

This social media post includes a safety message from Clackamas Fire about lithium ion batteries. 

The investigation is ongoing, at present no citations have been issued in this incident. The Milwaukie Police would remind residents, unregistered e-motor cycles are not permitted on streets, sidewalks or city parks – private property with permission only. Additionally, drivers should be aware many electric mobility devices that are permitted on roadways and paths may be traveling faster than you think. MiPD case #26-4930

Update 9/2/26 at 8:45 a.m.

On 9/1/26 at approximately 8:37 p.m., the suspect in this case, 37-year-old Raul Martinez Guevara, was safely taken into custody by the Vancouver Police Department’s Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Detective Unit (TDU) at a residence in the 3300 block of E. 18th Street in Vancouver, Washington.

Martinez Guevara was booked into the Clark County Jail on multiple charges, including second-degree robbery, second-degree kidnapping, third-degree assault of a child, first-degree custodial interference, fourth-degree assault, and violation of a protection order. He also had prior warrants for second-degree burglary and violation of a protection order.

Update 8/18/26 1:20 PM. 

Infant Marcello Martinez was recovered today after a 3rd party notified his mother that Raul had turned over the child.  Law enforcement met with the 3rd party and recovered the child, who appears to be happy and healthy.

Raul Martinez was not located with the child and is wanted by law enforcement.  CCSO requests anyone with information on his whereabouts to call 911.  CCSO thanks the public's assistance and vigilance, along with help from partner agencies in the efforts to recover Infant Marcello.

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The Washington State Patrol has issued an AMBER Alert on behalf of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for seven-month-old Marcello Martinez, who was taken in the Vancouver area on August 16, 2026. Investigators believe Marcello may be in danger.

On August 16, 2026, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the Hazel Dell area of Vancouver after a victim reported that Raul Martinez, 37, violated a Domestic Violence No Contact Order.

During the incident, Raul allegedly assaulted and robbed the victim. Raul also allegedly assaulted the victim’s seven-month-old baby, Marcello, and took him without permission. Raul is Marcello’s father.

Marcello is 24 inches tall, weighs approximately 16 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last known to be wearing a blue onesie with the words “Grandmas are the best” in neon lettering.

Raul is 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighs approximately 180 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last known to be wearing tight sweatpants, a white shirt, and a blue/green jacket.

Investigators do not have a confirmed associated vehicle at this time.

If you see Raul Martinez or Marcello Martinez, call 9-1-1 immediately. Anyone with information about their whereabouts should contact the Clark County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 360-693-3111 and reference case number 26006104.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate this case. No additional information is available for release at this time.

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 8. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Board Self-Evaluation (Addendum G)

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged in advance of the meeting by emailing oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

Committee members include Ben Deumling, Heath Curtiss, and Liz Agpaoa.

This standing board committee recommends policies (or policy changes) to the board pertaining to governance issues and processes including the oversight and management of the Board Policy Manual, orientation and training of new board members, the evaluation and improvement of the board, the repository of board materials, and oversight of the written conflict of interest policies, procedures, and review of annual or special statements of board members. Learn more about the committee.

Salem, Ore - The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council will meet from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, online via Zoom. This is a public meeting; those who would like to attend should contact Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov. See the agenda below.

Questions or concerns can be addressed to Elke Bruton, Program Manager at 971-375-3509 or elke.bruton@slo.oregon.gov. Sign language interpretation will be provided for the public if requested 48 hours before the meeting; notice 72 hours before the meeting is preferred. Handouts of meeting materials may also be requested in an alternate format 72 hours before the meeting. Requests may be made to Ashley Wilsey at ashley.wilsey@slo.oregon.gov.

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION AND LIBRARY SERVICES
ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, September 8, 2026
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
(Virtual)

• Welcome (Elke Bruton, 5 minutes)
• Public Comment(5 minutes)
• Approval of minutes from 6/9/2026 (5 minutes)
• Advisory Council Member Updates (30 minutes)
• State Librarian update (Wendy Cornelisen, 10 minutes)
• Manager updates (Elke Bruton, 10 minutes)
• Strategic Planning Process Update (Natalie Brant, 10 minutes)
• Meeting review
• Adjournment

Any person may address the Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council on any topic for up to 3 minutes. The Government Information and Library Services Advisory Council does not generally engage in dialog with those making comments but may refer any questions or issues raised to the State Librarian.