Regional News Archives for 2015-02

Body Found Near Burnside Bridge

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are investigating after a man's body was found near the Burnside Bridge.  Officials say the body was found under a drain pipe on the banks of the Willamette River yesterday morning.  Investigators say it's possible the man was inside the drain pipe and was pushed out by rainwater.  An autopsy is being conducted.
 

Hayes Sues Newspaper Over Emails

(Salem, OR)  --  Former Governor John Kitzhaber's fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, is suing "The Oregonian" in an effort to block the release of her emails.  Hayes contends the emails aren't a matter of public record, and says she's asserting her constitutional right against self-incrimination by not releasing them.  She filed the lawsuit against the newspaper yesterday in Marion County Circuit Court.  Hayes and Kitzhaber are under investigation in an alleged influence-peddling scandal.
 

Man Accused In Kelso Shooting Turns Self In

(Kelso, WA)  --  Cowlitz County authorities say 41-year-old Christopher Lee Yourkwitz, who's accused of shooting his roommate during an argument, has surrendered to authorities.  The shooting happened at a house on Veys Avenue in Kelso Wednesday night, and deputies had been searching for him since.  Yourkwitz contacted the sheriff's office last night and told them he was on his way to turn himself in.  He's been booked on charges of third-degree assault and felon in possession of a firearm.
 

Washington, Oregon Reached Record Export Levels In 2014

(Washington, DC)  --  Federal officials say Washington was one of 26 states that set records in goods exports last year.  The U.S. Department of Commerce says the Evergreen State exported 90-point-six-billion dollars' worth of goods in 2014.  Oregon also set a record, exporting nearly 21-billion dollars in goods.  The Commerce Department says total merchandise exports from all 50 states helped the U.S. achieve the fifth consecutive record-setting year of goods-and-services exports.
 

Arrest Made In Deadly DUII Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is in police custody after he was accused in a DUII crash that killed another man in Portland.  Authorities say 25-year-old Joshua James Vann crashed Wednesday into a car driven by 55-year-old Dale Edward McConachie [[ muh-KONN-uh-kee ]] at the intersection of Northeast 33rd Avenue and Columbia Boulevard.  McConachie was killed when his vehicle slammed into a concrete structure.  Vann was treated at a hospital, then was booked on charges of first-degree manslaughter, DUII, second-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and reckless endangerment.
 

Police: Woman Died During Medical Emergency

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a woman who was found lying on the ground near the Steel Bridge died during some kind of medical emergency.  An autopsy is being conducted on the woman, who was found yesterday afternoon south of the bridge along the Eastbank Esplanade.  Her name hasn't been released.
 

FBI, IRS Involved In Kitzhaber Investigation

(Salem, OR)  --  State officials say the FBI and the IRS are partnering in a federal investigation of former Governor John Kitzhaber and his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes.  KOIN-TV reports Oregon Chief Operating Officer Michael Jordan was questioned two weeks ago by representatives of both federal agencies.  The day after the interviews, Kitzhaber announced his resignation.  The ex-governor and Hayes are being investigated following allegations of influence-peddling.

Police: Man Who Shot At Officers Took Own Life

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say a man who shot at officers and then shot himself to death was a known gang member and a federal fugitive.  Authorities say 26-year-old Quintrell Holiman was wanted for escape on the original charge of felon in possession of a firearm.  Officials say Holiman left Shimmers Bar and Grill near Southeast 80th and Foster early Wednesday morning and fired a couple of shots at two officers who were chasing him on foot.  Police say Holiman apparently shot himself as officers tried to engage him at a Raymond Street residence, where he was found hiding.

Portland Among Cities With Fastest-rising Rents

(Undated)  --  A new survey from Zillow shows Portland has among the fastest-rising rents in the nation.  The survey places Portland at Number five, with the average rent increase at seven-point-two percent from January 2014 to January of this year.  The median amount renters are paying is more than 15-hundred dollars a month.  In the top spot is San Francisco, with an increase of nearly 15 percent and a median rent of more than three-thousand dollars.

Teachers At Wilson H.S. Investigated For Hazing Incident

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland school district says three Wilson High School teachers are being investigated following allegations of hazing.  Officials say a leadership teacher and two health teachers are on leave and substitutes have been appointed to take their place during the investigation.  There's been no information released on the nature of the hazing.

One Killed, One Injured In Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  One person is dead and another injured, following a two-vehicle crash in Portland.  Police say the wreck happened around 4:30 p.m. yesterday at Northeast Columbia Boulevard and 33rd Avenue.  One driver died at the scene and the other was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.  No names have been released.

Kitzhaber Email Leak Investigated

(Salem, OR)  --  A criminal investigation is being conducted into the leak of former Governor John Kitzhaber's emails.  KATU-TV reports Oregon chief operating officer Michael Jordan sent an email to staff members, saying he's asked Oregon State Police to conduct the investigation.  The emails in question were leaked to "Willamette Week" reporter Neil Jacquiss, who says they showed Kitzhaber's fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, trying to profit from her relationship with the then-governor.  Jordan says two senior state managers will be duty-stationed at home pending the outcome of a personnel investigation.

Longshore Workers Trying To Erase Backlog

(Portland, OR)  --  The Port of Portland is buzzing with activity again, as Longshore union workers try to catch up on a backlog of shipments.  The containers began to accumulate after a labor dispute began October 31st of last year with waterfront terminal operators and shipping lines.  The dispute affected dozens of West Coast ports as discussions took place between the International Longshore Workers Union and the Pacific Maritime Association.  A tentative agreement was reached Friday, and union workers are scheduled to vote on whether to approve the agreement in the next few weeks.

Police ID Pedestrian Killed On Southeast Tualatin Valley Highway

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  No citations have been issued, following a crash that killed a pedestrian in Hillsboro.  Police say 34-year-old Jamey C. Haines was crossing Southeast Tualatin Valley Highway near Imlay Avenue around eight o'clock Saturday night when she was hit by an eastbound minivan.  Officials say Haines was not in a crosswalk at the time.
 

Democrats To Move Clean-fuels Bill Forward

(Salem, OR)  --  House Democrats say they'll move forward with debate on a Senate-passed bill to extend Oregon's clean-fuels program.  Republican opponents have argued that the measure should be tabled until federal investigators determine whether former Governor John Kitzhaber and his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, were paid by outside groups to push the extension.  House Speaker Tina Kotek says the bill will move to the House floor as planned.  "The Oregonian" reports the bill could be sent to Governor Kate Brown as early as next week.

"Conversion Therapy" Bill Being Considered

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill awaiting action in committee would prevent licensed mental-healthcare providers in Oregon from practicing what's known as "conversion therapy" on LGBT youth under 18.  The goal of such treatments is to change a person's sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual.  Opponents of the practice say it's confusing for young people and can cause lifelong trauma.

Woman Killed, Boy Critical Following Crash

(Oregon City, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies are trying to find out what caused a crash that killed an 18-year-old woman and critically injured a seven-year-old boy near Oregon City.  The crash took place around six p.m. Friday on South Redland Road near Lyons Road.  Deputies say Madison West veered into the oncoming lane and crashed into an oncoming vehicle.  West died later at a hospital, and the seven-year-old who was riding in the second vehicle is listed in critical condition.

Man Posing For Photo Killed By Train

(Kalama, WA)  --  Authorities say a man who was posing for a photo in Cowlitz County was struck and killed by a train.  Sheriff's deputies say the man, who had been driving from Portland to Tacoma, was posing for the picture along railroad tracks in Kalama when he was hit by an Amtrak train around 10:30 Saturday morning.  The man's name hasn't been released.  His female companion, who was taking the photo, was not injured.
 

Vigil Held For West Linn Teens Killed In Crash

(West Linn, OR)  --  Police say speed was a factor in a crash that killed two West Linn teenagers in Skamania County.  A vigil was held last night at West Linn High School for students Antonio Caballero [[ cah-bah-YAIR-oh ]] and Cooper Hill, both juniors and members of the school lacrosse team.  The Washington State Patrol says three cars and six people were involved in the crash, which happened Saturday on Highway 14.  Two other people were injured.
 

Motorcyclist Killed In Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  A motorcyclist is dead, following a crash off Southwest Capitol Highway in Portland.  Police say the crash happened in the parking lot of the Multnomah Arts Center around 1:30 yesterday afternoon.  A woman, who's said to be in her 50s or 60s, was killed.  Police say she was learning to ride a motorcycle and crashed into a parked car.

Kersey's Death Related To Blood Clot

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say former Portland Trail Blazer great Jerome Kersey died after a blood clot traveled to his lungs.  The Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office says the clot broke loose from Kersey's left calf and caused a pulmonary thromboembolism.  Doctor Larry Lewman of the medical examiner's office says he's running tests to determine how long the clot may have been in Kersey's body.  Kersey died Wednesday at Meridian Park Hospital in Tualatin.

Body Found In Park, Death Considered Suspicious

(Portland, OR)  --  An autopsy is will be conducted on a woman whose body was found in the Willamette River at Kelley Point Park.  Authorities say a 22-year-old man called police Wednesday and told them his girlfriend had disappeared while they camped in the park.  The body was found later in the river.  The boyfriend, who police have identified as Nicholas Ross Estrada, has been arrested.

State Senate Votes To Dissolve Cover Oregon

(Salem, OR)  --  Cover Oregon would be abolished under a bill passed by the state Senate.  The measure would also merge the failed medical-insurance exchange into an existing state agency.  Oregon would still operate an insurance exchange under the Affordable Care Act using a federal website.  The bill now moves on to the House for debate.

Man Arrested After Entering School, Picking Up Child

(Forest Grove, OR)  --  Police say they've arrested a man who entered Joseph Gale Elementary School in Forest Grove and picked up a student.  Authorities say 29-year-old Joshua Alan Brown has no known connection to the seven-year-old girl.  Brown was arrested yesterday after he was chased down by school staff, and the girl was unharmed.  Police say it appears Brown was under the influence of a controlled substance.
 

Oregon, Washington Ranked Among Least Church-going States

(Undated)  --  A new Gallup poll shows Oregon is among the states with the lowest rate of residents who attend church on a regular basis.  Oregon ranks 45th and Washington 46th, with 24 percent of those questioned in each state saying they attend church weekly.  Vermont is ranked as having the lowest rate of regular church attendance, at 17 percent.  Utah is ranked first with 51 percent.

Fifteen-dollar Minimum Wage Approved For Portland City Employees, Contractors

(Portland, OR)  --  Under an ordinance approved by the Portland City Council, all full-time city employees and contractors will make a minimum wage of 15 dollars an hour.  The unanimous vote amends Portland's Fair Wage Policy, and allows the city to join Multnomah County and the county housing authority in paying employees a 15-dollar minimum.  Officials say the move will cost the city more than one-point-one-million dollars a year.

Ballot Measure On Impeachment Proposed By Lawmaker

(Salem, OR)  --  A lawmaker is proposing that the Oregon Legislature approve a ballot measure that seeks to establish an executive impeachment process.  Salem Representative Jodi Hack says the system would allow lawmakers to try the governor for serious crimes, much like the authority Congress has to impeach the president.  "The Oregonian" reports Oregon is the only state that has no impeachment process.  In order for the item to be placed on the statewide ballot, it will need a majority vote in both the House and Senate.

Taylor Becomes Acting Secretary Of State

(Salem, OR)  --  The office Kate Brown vacated to become Oregon's new governor is now being filled by her former deputy, Robert Taylor.  "The Oregonian" reports Taylor will manage day-to-day operations in the Secretary of State's Office until Brown appoints a permanent successor.  There's no word on when Brown will announce her permanent replacement.  A spokesperson for the Secretary of State's Office says Taylor spent most of yesterday preparing for the office's annual budget presentation to the Legislature's Joint Ways and Means Committee.

Brown Sworn In As New Oregon Governor

(Salem, OR)  --  Kate Brown is now the governor of Oregon, following the resignation of John Kitzhaber.  The former secretary of state took the oath of office yesterday during a ceremony on the floor of the state House of Representatives.  Brown said she's ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work on the tasks that lie ahead.  She said her first order of business is to "regain the confidence of the people."

Bill To Extend Clean-fuel Standard Advances

(Salem, OR)  --  A measure that would extend Oregon's clean-fuel standard will move to the House after passing by a narrow margin in the Senate.  The measure was approved, despite the argument by Republicans tying the bill to outgoing Governor John Kitzhaber's fiancee, Cylvia Hayes.  The program, designed to combat climate change, sets increasingly lower limits on the carbon "intensity" of vehicle fuels.

Portland Ranked Among Most "Physically Active" U.S. Cities

(Undated)  --  A new report ranks Portland among the U.S. cities considered to be the most physically active.  The report, prepared by BetterDoctor.com, shows Portland at Number Seven, with a score of 70 out of a possible 100.  Rankings are based on health criteria such as physical activity, healthy weight, and access to quality parks.  Seattle ranks fifth in the survey, with Aurora, Colorado, San Francisco, and Oakland occupying the top three spots, respectively.

Death Of UO Student-athlete Investigated

(Eugene, OR)  --  An autopsy is being conducted to determine the cause of death of a University of Oregon student-athlete.  School officials say 18-year-old freshman Lauren Jones, who was a member of the Ducks' acrobatics and tumbling team, died yesterday after requiring medical attention.  Lane County Public Health officials are investigating whether Jones's death was the result of an outbreak of meningococcemia meningitis, which has hospitalized three students at the university.

Colton Man's Death Ruled Suicide By Cop

(Colton, OR)  --  A Colton man who was shot to death by Clackamas County sheriff's deputies is ruled to have committed suicide.  The Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office says 34-year-old Bruce Steward orchestrated the Sunday incident that led to his shooting by refusing to drop a hatchet while approaching the responding deputies.  Authorities say the deputies were dispatched to a home on South Wall Street in Colton after a report of a stabbing.  No stabbing victim was ever found.

Fuel Prices Rise Again

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area gasoline prices are still climbing.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular at two-40 a gallon, up more than two cents from yesterday.  It's also nearly 12 cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is about two-27 a gallon.

Brown To Be Sworn In As Governor Tomorrow

(Salem, OR)  --  Secretary of State Kate Brown is set to take the oath of office tomorrow as governor as she replaces John Kitzhaber, who's stepping down.  Brown will be sworn in by Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice Thomas Balmer during a ceremony on the House floor.  Brown has already announced the hiring of former aide Brian Shipley as her chief-of-staff.  Shipley is the chief lobbyist at Oregon Health & Science University.
 

Labor Secretary To Get Involved In Port Labor Dispute

(Portland, OR)  --  The secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor hopes to help end the contract dispute that's causing work slowdowns at the Port of Portland and other West Coast ports.  Secretary Tom Perez is expected to meet today with representatives of both sides in an effort to help smooth over differences in contract issues.  Loading and unloading of cargo vessels at all 29 West Coast ports have been on hold since Friday night.  Perez will meet in California to try to re-start stalled labor discussions between shipping companies and the dockworkers' union.

Bend Man Arrested For Death Of Woman In 2009

(Hood River, OR)  --  Police have a Bend man in custody after accusing him of killing a Portland woman who was hiking on a trail in the Columbia River Gorge in 2009.  Forty-year-old Stephen Wagner Nichols was arrested at the San Francisco Airport, and is accused in the death of his girlfriend, 23-year-old Rhonda Kristen Casto.  The "Hood River News" reports that a secret indictment for murder was filed against Nichols in April 2014, ten months before his arrest.  His next appearance in Hood River County court is set for March 3rd.
 

Motorcyclist Thrown Off Salem Bridge

(Salem, OR)  --  A Salem man is being treated for serious injuries after he was thrown off his motorcycle and into the Willamette River.  Police say 73-year-old William Chamberland, Jr. lost control of his motorcycle early yesterday morning and collided with a van, hit a barrier on the south side of the Marion Street Bridge, then went airborne and plunged into the river.  A couple who were in a boat on the river provided aid to Chamberland, who's being treated at Salem Hospital for potentially life-threatening injuries.  The driver of the van stayed at the scene and cooperated with police.
 

Man Killed In Crash Of Maserati

(Portland, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies are investigating a deadly crash in Portland involving an Italian sports car.  Authorities say speed and alcohol are believed to be factors in the wreck that killed the passenger in the Maserati near the intersection of Southeast Jennings Avenue and Southeast Jade Court early yesterday morning.  The driver is hospitalized after being cut out of the damaged sports car.

Brown Prepares To Replace Kitzhaber

(Salem, OR)  --  Secretary of State Kate Brown is continuing preparations to replace John Kitzhaber as governor.  Kitzhaber is scheduled to step down Wednesday after announcing his resignation Friday, in light of state and federal criminal investigations regarding the role of Kitzhaber's fiancee is his administration.  Brown mentioned nothing about the soon-to-be ex-governor Saturday, as she joined former Oregon governors Barbara Roberts and Ted Kulongoski for a celebration of the 156th anniversary of Oregon statehood.

Body Found In Corvallis Park

(Corvallis, OR)  --  Police in Corvallis are conducting a criminal investigation after a body was found in a local park.  The body was found around 10:30 yesterday morning in Alan B. Berg Park.  Police haven't released the name, age, or gender of the body.  KOIN-TV reports the Benton County Sheriff's Office, Oregon State Police, the Philomath Police Department, and the Linn County Sheriff's Office are involved in the investigation.

Clark County Woman Missing

(Woodland, WA)  --  Authorities are looking for a Clark County woman who has suffered multiple strokes.  Sheriff's deputies say 56-year-old Lisa McNair was reported missing on February 11th.  She was last seen walking west on Cedar Creek Road toward Woodland.  McNair, who uses a cane to help her walk, is described as white, about five feet tall, 185 pounds, with short, spiky brownish-gray hair, and was wearing black stretch pants and a light-blue hoodie and carrying a black bag.

Elderly Woman Reported Missing Returns Safely

(Portland, OR)  --  An elderly Northeast Portland woman who had been reported missing is now safe at home.  Police say 81-year-old Ada Lee Little vanished Saturday night after not returning home from a walk.  Authorities say Little, who was considered medically fragile, returned home safely last night.  
 

Oregon Governor Asked To Resign

(Salem, OR)  --  Top Democrats and the state treasurer of Oregon are asking their governor to resign.  Governor John Kitzhaber is the target of a criminal corruption probe into alleged conflict-of-interest.  The investigation involves the role of his fiancee as an unpaid advisor to the governor and consulting contracts she currently holds.  State Treasurer Ted Wheeler says Oregon deserves a governor who is fully focused on the duties of state, and Secretary of State Kate Brown says she's ready to step into the job should Kitzhaber step down.

Hayes Ordered To Release Emails

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor John Kitzhaber's fiancee is being told to release emails from her personal accounts relating to state business to "The Oregonian."  Under the state public-records law, Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has ordered Cylvia Hayes to turn over the emails.  Rosenblum rejected Hayes' argument that she was an "honorary" first lady and was not duty-bound to produce the emails.  Following the attorney general's order yesterday, Hayes has seven days to comply with The Oregonian's request or file suit to block the emails' release.
 

New High School Set For Beaverton

(Beaverton, OR)  --  A new high school is on the horizon in Beaverton.  The Beaverton School District says it will use a portion of the money from its 2014 bond measure to build a new high school in the South Cooper Mountain area.  Officials say the new school will help alleviate overcrowding at four of Beaverton's five high schools.  The school's opening is tentatively scheduled for September 2017.

More Taxis To Serve Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  The demand is outgrowing the supply, so the go-ahead is being given to bring more taxis to Portland.  There are currently 460 cabs registered to operate in the city, and permits were approved yesterday to increase that number by as much as 60 percent.  Dylan Rivera with the Portland Bureau of Transportation told KOIN-TV that the new taxis will be a great help, especially on weekend nights when demand for taxicabs is highest.
 

Gas Prices Going Up

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices are still heading up in the Portland area.  The latest survey by Triple-A shows the average for regular is about two-32 a gallon, about a penny-and-a-half higher than yesterday's average.  The national average for regular is about two-24 a gallon.
 

Council To Vote On Smoking Ban At Parks

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland City Council is scheduled to vote next week on a proposed smoking ban in city parks and along trails.  The Council held a public hearing on the issue last night.  The ban would include tobacco products, as well as marijuana and e-cigarettes.  If the proposal is passed, it will take effect July 1st.

Vancouver Teacher Accused Of Child Rape Pleads Not Guilty

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A Vancouver high-school teacher accused of having sex with a student is awaiting trial after pleading not guilty.  Evergreen High English and drama teacher Stephanie McCrea is facing counts of third-degree child rape, witness tampering, and sexual misconduct.  McCrea, who was arrested January 27th, is accused of having sex repeatedly with a 15-year-old student, beginning last December.

Albertsons, Safeway Stores To Become Haggen

(Bellingham, WA)  --  Many Albertsons and Safeway supermarkets are about to be rebranded.  Haggen Incorporated, which is based in Bellingham, Washington, has purchased 146 Safeway and Albertsons stores in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, and Arizona.  The conversions are scheduled to take place over the next several months.  A Lake Oswego Albertsons will be the first Portland-area store to become a Haggen when it's rebranded in mid-March.

Estacada Council Votes For Prayer Before Meetings

(Estacada, OR)  --  The Estacada City Council will eventually hold a prayer before each of its public meetings.  The council has voted unanimously to start its public meetings with a prayer.  Mayor Brent Dodrill, who's also pastor of Estacada First Baptist Church, told KOIN-TV that there's been little opposition to the idea.  The city is developing a plan on how to structure invocations.
 

Portland Chef Finishes Second On "Top Chef"

(Portland, OR)  --  Even though he didn't finish first, Portland chef Gregory Gourdet [[ gore-DAY ]] says he had fun.  Gourdet came in second in the just-completed season of "Top Chef" on the Bravo cable channel.  He's the executive chef at Departure, which is located at The Nines hotel.  The winner was Los Angeles chef Mei Lin, who was only the third female winner in the show's history.

Three Winning Powerball Tickets Sold

(Salem, OR)  --  The holders of three winning tickets will split a jackpot that reached more than a half-billion dollars for last night's Powerball drawing.  The tickets were sold in North Carolina, Texas, and Puerto Rico.  Lottery officials say the grand prize grew to 564-million dollars before the drawing was held.  The Powerball jackpot has reset to 40-million dollars for the Saturday night drawing.

Gas Prices Still Climbing

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A is reporting another rise in Portland-area gasoline prices.  The average for a gallon of regular is about two-30, up two cents from yesterday.  It's also about 14 cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Man Wanted In Tigard Murder Arrested

(Tigard, OR)  --  A man being sought in connection with a murder in Tigard is in custody, after being arrested near Tacoma, Washington.  Police say 28-year-old Orlando Pouncey, who was arrested Monday evening, is accused of gunning down 36-year-old Jerry Nguyen [[ nwin ]] on January 30th.  Witnesses had reported seeing Pouncey running from the scene following the shooting.  There's no word on when he'll be returned to Oregon.
 

Man Charged In Attack On Grandparents

(Salem, OR)  --  A Mill Creek man accused of killing his grandmother and seriously injuring his grandfather is facing a murder charge.  Shane Hathaway is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Betty Sorg on January 15th, and with attempted second-degree murder in the attack that left James Sorg injured.  Police say Hathaway has schizophrenia and had threatened his grandparents in the past.  Hathaway's trial is set for March 27th.

Washington Among States That Love Dogs Most

(Undated)  --  A new survey shows Washington dog owners are among the most loving to their pets.  The Milk Bone Doggy Love Index ranks the Evergreen State third in the U.S., based on a survey of "dog parents" who say they often show love to their dog by buying treats, allowing them to share a bed, and just saying "I love you."  California was ranked as the top dog-loving state.

Police: SE Portland Raid Yields Guns, Stolen IDs, Meth

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say five people were arrested after a raid in Southeast Portland turned up methamphetamine, guns, and stolen driver's licenses.  The raid was conducted early yesterday morning at a home on Southeast 131st Avenue.  Authorities detained five of the seven people who came out of the house after police arrived.  The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Unit and Portland Police Bureau SERT personnel conducted the raid.

Bill Would Outlaw Posting Intimate Images Of "Exes" Online

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill being considered in the Oregon Legislature would make it illegal to post intimate images of "exes" online without their consent.  Under Senate Bill 188, a first offense would be a misdemeanor, and repeat offenders would be charged with felony crimes.  Penalties would include up to five years in prison and fines of up to 125-thousand dollars.  The bill is awaiting action in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

AG Launches Investigation Of Kitzhaber, Hayes

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon's attorney general says she's opened an investigation into allegations of criminal wrongdoing by Governor John Kitzhaber and his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes.  A.G. Ellen Rosenblum says the investigation authorizes her to request records, subpoena witnesses, and bring charges against Kitzhaber and Hayes, if warranted.  Rosenblum made the announcement yesterday, about two hours after the governor requested she conduct a "full and independent factual review" of allegations regarding contracts involving Hayes.  Rosenblum says she had already begun her investigation Friday.

Trees Toppled Around Portland Area

(Portland, OR)  --  Today's weather forecast will be much improved after high winds and rain blew through metro Portland yesterday.  Fallen trees were reported in the region, resulting in damage to homes in Southwest Portland and West Linn.  A tree fell onto Oatfield Road in Milwaukie, and power lines were reported down on Highway 34 near Lebanon.

Crackdown On "Vaping" Being Considered



(Portland, OR)  --  This week, the Multnomah County Commission will take up a proposal regarding regulation of the sale and use of e-cigarettes.  The county health department is scheduled tomorrow to go before the Portland City Council with a preview of the proposal, which would ban minors from buying and using e-cigarettes and ban "vaping" where smoking tobacco is currently outlawed.  Health officials say more than ten percent of high-school students in the county have tried e-cigarettes.
 

Remains Of Kelso Woman Identified

(Kelso, WA)  --  The death of a Kelso woman, whose remains were found in February 2013, is being investigated as "suspicious."  Police say the remains were recently identified as those of 44-year-old Molly Waddington, who was last seen alive on March 14th, 2012.  Her incomplete, skeletal remains were found near the Columbia River west of Cathlamet, Washington.  Waddington had last been seen walking in a Kelso neighborhood, about five miles from her home.

Man Seriously Injured In I-84 Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is being treated for potentially life-threatening injuries, following a crash on I-84 in Portland.  Police say the man, who was westbound on the highway yesterday morning, struck an abandoned car near 122nd Avenue, causing his vehicle to overturn.  A third vehicle was damaged in the crash, but there were no other injuries.  The 29-year-old man was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
 

Port Operations To Resume Today

(Portland, OR)  --  Shipping operations are expected to resume today at the Port of Portland.  Ports along the West Coast were temporarily shut down over the weekend, as contract negotiations continue between the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union.  The association has accused the union of intentionally slowing down work for the past several months, but the union says the PMA has reduced night shifts and has refused requests to add more workers to get ships loaded and unloaded.
 

Man Killed By Truck In Hazel Dell

(Hazel Dell, WA)  --  Clark County sheriff's deputies are investigating a crash that killed a pedestrian in Hazel Dell during a heavy rain.  Authorities say the crash happened Saturday evening as the pedestrian was walking along Highway 99 near Northeast 102nd Street.  The man, who had no identification, was hit by a pickup truck.  The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police.

Murder Suspect Still On The Loose

(Tigard, OR)  --  A man who's accused of a homicide in Tigard is still being sought by police.  A murder warrant is out for 29-year-old Orlando Pouncey, who's accused of gunning down Jerry Nguyen.  Nguyen was shot January 30th while trying to pick up his child outside his ex-wife's home near 107th and Canterbury Lane in Tigard.  Anyone with information helpful to the investigation is asked to call the Tigard Police Department.

Four-year-old Boy Shoots Finger

(Gresham, OR)  --  A four-year-old boy in Gresham is recovering after shooting himself in the finger.  Police say the boy was playing with a gun when it went off around 8:20 Saturday night at a home on Northwest 15th Street.  Police say the parents have cooperated with the investigation and no criminal charges have been filed.
 

"Oregonian" Calling On Kitzhaber To Resign

(Portland, OR)  --  Oregon's largest newspaper is calling on Governor John Kitzhaber to resign.  The editorial board of "The Oregonian" issued the call following what it termed a "disastrous press conference" held by Kitzhaber earlier this week.  During the news conference,  Kitzhaber, who has said he won't step down, mainly deferred questions about the activities of his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, during his time in office.  The Oregonian recently reported that 118-thousand dollars Hayes received from the Clean Economy Development Center was not fully accounted for on her tax forms, which she provided to the newspaper.

Police: Man Tried To Lure Boys

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are looking for a man who reportedly tried to lure two brothers into his car as they were walking to school.  Authorities a white man in his 50s or 60s tried to persuade the boys, ages five and 13, into a white, older-model Ford in the area of Northeast 11th Avenue and Tillamook Street around 8:15 Monday morning.  The kids were walking to Irvington School.  Police say the suspect was described as possibly having a British or Scottish accent.
 

Ex-Yamhill Deputy Sentenced For Beating Child

(McMinnville, OR)  --  A former reserve deputy with the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office is headed to prison.  Michael Abo pleaded guilty yesterday to a charge of first-degree assault in the beating of his girlfriend's four-year-old son, which caused permanent brain damage to the child.  Abo was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years for the assault that took place on New Year's Eve 2013.

Bill To Extend Clean-fuel Standard Advances

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill that would extend Oregon's clean-fuel standard until 2025 is headed to the full Senate.  The Senate environment committee approved the measure on a party-line vote.  Supporters say the measure seeks to reduce carbon emissions by setting an increasingly cleaner standard for fuel distributors.  A Senate floor vote hasn't yet been scheduled.

Man Accused Of Killing Father In Albany

(Albany, OR)  --  A man is facing a murder charge after his father's body was found in Albany.  Police say 26-year-old Martin Ferrero is accused of killing 64-year-old Thomas Ferrero, who was found dead Sunday evening in his home on Carrol Place Southwest.  Police say both men lived in the home.  The Oregon Department of Geology says Thomas Ferrero was recently hired as the assistant director responsible for leading the Mineral Land Regulation & Reclamation Program.
 

Man Found Drowned In Milwaukie Creek

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  Clackamas County sheriff's deputies are investigating, after a man's body was found in Mount Scott Creek in Milwaukie.  Investigators say the man was found yesterday morning, face-down in the creek near Southeast Harmony Road.  The Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office is conducting an autopsy.

Bill Would End Daylight Saving Time In Washington

(Olympia, WA)  --  A House panel will hear a proposal to end Daylight Saving Time in Washington state.  Under the measure, Pacific Standard Time would be in effect for the Evergreen State year-round.  The Washington House Committee on Commerce and Gaming is slated to hear the measure this afternoon.
 

Seattle, Portland Among "Healthiest" Cities

(Undated)  --  A new survey shows Seattle and Portland to be among America's "healthiest" cities.  BetterDoctor.com has compiled a ranking of U.S. cities, based on health criteria such as exercise rates, the percentage of highly-rated doctors, and the number of residents with health insurance.  Seattle is ranked ninth in the nation, scoring 57-point-seven on a scale of one to 100.  Portland ranks eleventh with 56-point-seven, while Boston is in first place with a score of 74-point-five.

Kitzhaber: Fiancee To Have No Role In Policy-making

(Portland, OR)  --  Governor John Kitzhaber says his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, will have no role in making policy during the remainder of his term in office.  In a brief news conference yesterday, Kitzhaber deferred questions about Hayes to his fiancee, including queries about the 118-thousand dollars she was paid for consulting on environmental issues while advising the governor on the same issues.  Hayes was reported to be out of the country and unavailable to answer questions.   
 

Food-cart Owners Facing Charges

(Portland, OR)  --  Two food-cart owners in Portland are accused of trying to buy stolen meat.  Police say Renuka Devi Prasad, who runs Ren's Bubble Tea, and Chop Chop owner Wing Fai Lee are charged with attempted theft by receiving.  Investigators say the meat was stolen from a nearby Safeway by shoplifters who sold it to food-cart owners.  Portland police say black-market sales of meat are becoming an increasing problem.
 

"Person of Interest" In Deadly Sooting Still At Large

(Tigard, OR)  --  A man who's considered a person of interest in the shooting death of another man in Tigard remains on the loose.  Police are searching for 29-year-old Orlando Pouncey, who officials say was seen in the area at the time of the shooting Friday night.  Authorities say 37-year-old Jerry Nguyen of Beaverton was shot to death outside his ex-wife's home in Canterbury Heights.  Police say Nguyen was at the house to pick up his child when he was shot.

Motorcyclist Critically Injured In Crash

(Keizer, OR)  --  A motorcyclist is listed in critical condition after being injured in a crash in Keizer.  Police say Juan Velazquez was northbound on River Road around midnight Saturday when he collided with a car at the intersection with Quinaby Road Northeast.  Velazquez is being treated at OHSU.  The driver of the car was treated at a hospital and released.

Deputies: Pot Contributed To Crash

(Bethany, OR)  --  Washington County sheriff's deputies say marijuana contributed to the cause of a rollover crash near the community of Bethany.  Nineteen-year-old Nickolas Hoffman is facing charges of DUII and reckless driving, in connection with Saturday's crash on Northwest West Union Road near Northwest Bethany Boulevard.  Hoffman suffered minor injuries.

Three Climbers Rescued On Mount Hood

(Mount Hood, OR)  --  Two of the three climbers who were injured in falls on Mount Hood Saturday are Portland residents.  Authorities say 43-year-old Michelle Carlson broke both her ankles in the fall and 39-year-old Brian Carlson suffered a broken leg.  The third climber, who's from Hillsboro, sustained minor injuries.  Officials say a team from Portland Mountain Rescue was in the area to train at the time the incidents occurred and was able to aid the victims immediately.
 

Sauvie Island Plan Hearings Start This Evening

(Portland, OR)  --  Public hearings are set to begin this evening on an update of the Sauvie Island and Multnomah Channel Rural Area Plan.  Discussions will be held on the plan, which concerns land-use and transportation planning issues, and includes ideas and proposals from community committees.  Hearings will also take place on March 2nd and 16th, and each will be held between 6:30 and nine p.m. at Sauvie Island Academy on Northwest Charlton Road.

Archives:

2024-03 | 2024-02 | 2024-01 | 2023-12 | 2023-11 | 2023-10 | 2023-09 | 2023-08 | 2023-07 | 2023-06 | 2023-05 | 2023-04 | 2023-03 | 2023-02 | 2023-01 | 2022-12 | 2022-11 | 2022-10 | 2022-09 | 2022-08 | 2022-07 | 2022-06 | 2022-05 | 2022-04 | 2022-03 | 2022-02 | 2022-01 | 2021-12 | 2021-11 | 2021-10 | 2021-09 | 2021-08 | 2021-07 | 2021-06 | 2021-05 | 2021-04 | 2021-03 | 2021-02 | 2021-01 | 2020-12 | 2020-11 | 2020-10 | 2020-09 | 2020-08 | 2020-07 | 2020-06 | 2020-05 | 2020-04 | 2020-03 | 2020-02 | 2020-01 | 2019-12 | 2019-11 | 2019-10 | 2019-09 | 2019-08 | 2019-07 | 2019-06 | 2019-05 | 2019-04 | 2019-03 | 2019-02 | 2019-01 | 2018-12 | 2018-11 | 2018-10 | 2018-09 | 2018-08 | 2018-07 | 2018-06 | 2018-05 | 2018-04 | 2018-03 | 2018-02 | 2018-01 | 2017-12 | 2017-11 | 2017-10 | 2017-09 | 2017-08 | 2017-07 | 2017-06 | 2017-05 | 2017-04 | 2017-03 | 2017-02 | 2017-01 | 2016-12 | 2016-11 | 2016-10 | 2016-09 | 2016-08 | 2016-07 | 2016-06 | 2016-05 | 2016-04 | 2016-03 | 2016-02 | 2016-01 | 2015-12 | 2015-11 | 2015-10 | 2015-09 | 2015-08 | 2015-07 | 2015-06 | 2015-05 | 2015-04 | 2015-03 | 2015-02 | 2015-01 | 2014-12 | 2014-11 | 2014-10 | 2014-09 | 2014-08 | 2014-07 | 2014-06 | 2014-05 | 2014-04 | 2014-03 | 2014-02 | 2014-01 | 2013-12 | 2013-11 | 2013-10 | 2013-07 | 2013-06 | 2013-05 | 2013-04 | 2013-03 | 2013-02 | 2013-01 | 2012-12 | 2012-11 | 2012-10 | 2012-09 | 2012-08 | 2012-07 | 2012-06 | 2012-05 | 2012-04 | 2012-03 | 2012-02 | 2012-01 | 2011-12 | 2011-11 | 2011-10 | 2011-09 | 2011-08 | 2011-07 | 2011-06 | 2011-05 | 2011-04 | 2011-03 | 2011-02 | 2011-01 | 2010-12 | 2010-11

On Air Now

Lars Larson
Lars Larson
7:00pm - 10:00pm
Lars Larson

FlashAlert

KBND ON FACEBOOK

News Disclaimers