Regional News Archives for 2015-12

Youth Villages Oregon Planned For Closure

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  A facility for foster children and troubled youth in Lake Oswego is set for closure next year.  Youth Villages Oregon, which is facing the loss of its state license to operate, says it will begin laying off its 74 employees at its Christie Campus in March.  The Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Department of Human Services have said that there's been a lack of sufficient supervision by staff members for the children treated at the center.  DHS told the "Portland Tribune" that the state stopped placing foster children at Youth Villages programs earlier this month and moved the children who were already there to other facilities.  

Woman Hit By Car In Salem Dies

(Salem, OR)  --  Police say a woman who was seriously injured when she was hit by a tow truck in Salem has died.  Officials say 29-year-old Rebecca Schoff died yesterday afternoon from injuries she suffered in the Tuesday evening crash.  Police say Schoff was crossing at the intersection of Mission Street Southeast and Ford Street Southeast when she was hit by the tow truck.  The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police.  

Residents Displaced From 10 Apartments After Fire

(Portland, OR)  --  Residents of ten apartments are unable to go back home after a fire broke out at the Stone Ridge at Cornell complex in the Beaverton area.  Tualatin Fire & Rescue officials say the blaze was reported around 6:30 yesterday evening at the Northwest Cornell Road complex.  No injuries have been reported.  The cause of the fire hasn't been determined.

Area Fuel Prices Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A is reporting a drop in Portland-area gas prices as the new year approaches.  The average for regular is two-37 a gallon, nearly a penny lower than yesterday's average.  Regular gas averaged about two-53 a gallon in Portland at this time last year. 

Sewage Spill Into Fanno Creek

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials are urging residents of the area near Fanno Creek in Southwest Portland to avoid the water, after a broken pipe began leaking sewage into the creek.  The broken sewer pipe was found yesterday as crews were investigating excessive amounts of bacteria in the creek.  The Bureau of Environmental Services says the break happened at a home in the area of Southwest Lowell and 48th Avenue.  Crews are assessing damage and working on repairs. 

More Money Needed For WA To Clear Rape Kit Backlog

(Olympia, WA)  --  Crime-lab managers say they'll need more funding to make any real progress in clearing the backlog of rape kits across Washington.  Governor Jay Inslee signed legislation earlier year, requiring police departments to submit every rape kit for testing within 30 days of being completed.  Officials say staff additions haven't been sufficient to keep up with the volume of rape kits.  DNA database manager Jean Johnston told KIRO-TV there's been about a 72-percent increase in the number of rape kits at all five of Washington's DNA labs. 

Initiative Would Call For Rollback Of High-Court Ruling

(Olympia, WA)  --  Officials say more than enough signatures have been submitted to get an initiative on Washington's statewide ballot regarding a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.  Initiative 735 would put the state on record calling for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution to overturn the "Citizens United" ruling.  The decision overturned a 20-year-old Supreme Court ruling that prohibited corporations from spending unlimited money to support or oppose candidates.  Supporters of the measure say if it gets on the ballot, votes in favor of it would be symbolic but would let Congress know the amendment needs to be considered. 

Woman Killed In Wrong-way Crash In Douglas County

(Rice Hill, OR)  --  Oregon State Police are investigating a wrong-way crash on Interstate 5 that left a woman dead in Douglas County.  Troopers say 35-year-old Deanna Teaven was a passenger in an SUV that was southbound in the northbound lanes of the highway near Rice Hill early yesterday morning.  The SUV collided with a tractor-trailer rig, killing Teaven.  The driver of the SUV, 39-year-old Charles B. Jones, was seriously injured. 

Train-SUV Crash Kills Three In Union County

(Union, OR)  --  Three people are dead, after a train crashed into an SUV in Union County.  Authorities say a Jeep that had turned into the path of the Union Pacific train was hit around three o'clock yesterday afternoon.  All three people in the Jeep were ejected and died at the scene.  The Union County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation.  

State: WA Driver Licenses Don't Meet Federal Standards

(Olympia, WA)  --  State officials say the federal Transportation Security Administration may stop accepting Washington state driver's licenses from airline passengers because they don't comply with federal standards.  Washington state lawmakers passed a law after federal driver's licensing standards changed a decade ago, asking the state Department of Licensing not to comply with the federal changes out of concern that it would make it easier to share users' private information.  If the feds implement a ban, possibly as soon as next year, Washingtonians with enhanced driver's licenses won't be affected.  The ban would apply to holders of standard driver's licenses or other ID cards. 

Investigation Conducted Into Glitch Leading To Premature Prisoner Release

(Tumwater, WA)  --  Governor Jay Inslee's office is leading an investigation into why it's taken so long to remedy a computer glitch that led to more than three-thousand inmates being released from Washington prisons by mistake.  The state Department of Corrections says a repair for the software glitch has been delayed 16 times, and the investigation aims to determine why.  The department says it hopes to have the problem fixed by January 7th.  

Uptick In Gas Prices

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices are slightly higher in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-37 a gallon, a half-cent higher than yesterday.  It's also up three cents from the average of a week ago. 

Couple's Death Investigated As Murder-suicide

(Hood River, OR)  --  The deaths of a woman and man from Hood River County are being investigated as a case of murder-suicide.  Authorities say the body of 48-year-old Wendy Hildreth was found yesterday at the Family Man Staging Area, and the body of her husband, 58-year-old Michael Hildreth, was found at the couple's home.  Police believe Michael Hildreth killed his wife and then killed himself.  Authorities say the couple were in the process of getting a divorce. 

Feds: Too Few OR, WA Students Taking State Exams

(Washington, DC)  --  Federal officials say Oregon and Washington are among 12 states that could be sanctioned unless they get more students to take state exams next spring.  The "Seattle Times" reports the participation rate in Washington is 91 percent, but 95 percent of students are required to take the state reading and math tests.  Oregon Governor Kate Brown signed a bill earlier this year, making it easier for parents to opt their children out of taking state standardized tests, but said educators and state officials should convince parents not to opt out.  The U.S. Department of Education has sent a warning letter to the 12 states, saying if little or nothing is done to raise participation rates, the states could be placed on high-risk status and possibly lose federal education funding. 

Wheeler Files To Run For Portland Mayor

(Portland, OR)  --  State Treasurer Ted Wheeler is officially a candidate for Portland mayor in 2016.  Wheeler filed the necessary paperwork yesterday, more than three months before the filing deadline.  Current Mayor Charlie Hales announced earlier this year he won't seek a second term in office. 

Tualatin Teacher Pleads Guilty To Sex Abuse

(Portland, OR)  --  A Tualatin High School teacher won't get any jail time after pleading guilty to a charge of second-degree sex abuse.  Jonathan Maggiano, who admitted yesterday to having a sexual encounter with a 17-year-old student in July, will be on probation for two years and must register as a sex offender.  Maggiano has also been ordered to complete 160 hours of community service.

Info On Nearly 1,000 Oregon Veterans May Be Compromised

(Salem, OR)  --  The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs says sensitive information on nearly a thousand of the state's veterans may have been compromised.  The department says an investigation shows that an unauthorized party handled documents containing sensitive information and certifies that a soldier has been discharged from active duty.  The department says the documents contain information, such as the names, security numbers, dates of birth, and addresses of 976 veterans.  Officials say there's no evidence that any attempt has been made to misuse the information. 

Ride The Ducks Vehicles Being Road-tested

(Seattle, WA)  --  Nine vehicles that are part of the Ride The Ducks Seattle fleet are being road-tested this week, as the company prepares them for inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard.  It's the first time the amphibious vehicles have taken the road since the September crash on Seattle's Aurora Bridge, which killed five people and injured dozens of others.  Despite reporting more than 400 safety violations by Ride the Ducks of Seattle, state regulators have recommended that the tour company be allowed to begin limited operations if it meets certain conditions. 

Bakery Pays $135K Fine In Gay Wedding-cake Case

(Portland, OR)  --  The Bureau of Labor and Industries says the owners of a Portland-area bakery which denied service to a same-sex couple has paid more than 135-thousand dollars to cover a legally-binding order from the agency.  A bureau spokesman told KOIN-TV that co-owner Aaron Klein made the payment yesterday, which is in addition to seven-thousand collected by the Bureau in December.  Klein and his wife own Sweet Cakes by Melissa.  The couple is appealing the case. 

Fuel Prices Rise Again

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices continue to go up in the Portland metro.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular is two-37 a gallon, up a penny from yesterday.  It's also four cents a gallon above the average of a week ago. 

Woman Accused Of Killing Husband Appears In Court

(Salem, OR)  --  A woman accused of killing her husband is awaiting her next court appearance in Salem.  Marion County authorities say 63-year-old Carolyn DiMatteo called 911 Saturday night after 69-year-old Joseph DiMatteo was shot to death at a trailer near the community of Lyons.  Deputies say Carolyn DiMatteo reported that she had shot her husband.  She made her first court appearance yesterday, and is due back in court on January 20th. 

Portland Woman Reported Missing

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are looking for a 71-year-old Portland woman who's been reported missing.  Authorities say Wanda Kay Faust left her home in the Hosford-Abernathy neighborhood around eight o'clock last night to take a walk.  Family members say Faust has displayed mild confusion in the past and may not be able to find her way home.  Faust is described as white, five-feet-one, 190 pounds, with shoulder-length brown hair and blue eyes, and was last seen wearing a thin, royal blue jacket, black pants, and sandals. 

Street Parking Rate-hike Considered

(Portland, OR)  --  It may soon cost drivers more to park on Portland's west side, as officials seek to create more parking turnover.  The rate hikes are being considered for areas including the Pearl District, South Waterfront, and downtown.  The Portland City Council is slated to vote today on a proposal to raise parking rates from a dollar-60 per hour to two dollars.  The last increase raised rates from a dollar-25 to a dollar-60 six years ago. 

Fuel Prices Climbing

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline continues to rise in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-36 a gallon, which is a half-cent higher than yesterday.  It's also three-and-a-half cents a gallon above the average of a week ago. 

Church Burglarized Between Services

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say a Portland church was burglarized three times within this past month.  The latest break-in at the Good Roots Community Church on Southeast Courtney Road happened between Christmas Eve and Christmas day.  Thieves stole items that included more than six-thousand dollars' worth of sound equipment.  Police haven't identified any suspects. 

Fugitive Injured In Washington County Crash

(Buxton, OR)  --  Authorities say a man who was wanted on a felony warrant was injured in a crash on Highway 47 in Washington County.  Sheriff's deputies say the man lost control last night on the slushy road near Buxton and rolled down an embankment and into a creek.  The man suffered minor injuries.  KOIN-TV reports his passenger was not injured, but a rescue crew had to use a boat to help her get across the creek.  

Pedestrian Hit By MAX Train Expected To Recover

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say a pedestrian who was struck by a MAX train in Portland is expected to recover.  Authorities say the pedestrian was hit around 6:40 Saturday night in the area of Northeast 148th Avenue and Burnside.  Police say the injuries were non-life-threatening.  The collision delayed Blue Line service for about 45 minutes.  

Fallen Tree Leads To Closure Of NE Germantown Road

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland Fire & Rescue says parts of Northwest Germantown Road have been closed because of a fallen tree and an unrelated traffic crash.  Spokesman Terry Foster told "The Oregonian" a tree fell on the stretch between Northwest Skyline Boulevard and U.S. Highway 30, and the western stretch from Cornelius Pass Road to Skyline was closed because of a multi-vehicle wreck.  Police say Northwest Germantown Road at Skyline Boulevard is impassable, and drivers are being urged to avoid the roads if their vehicles aren't properly equipped. 

Woman Who Drove Into Crowd On Strip On Suicide Watch

(Las Vegas, NV)  --  Attorneys for the woman accused of driving into a crowd on the Las Vegas Strip say she's distraught and on suicide watch.  Lakeisha Holloway made her first court appearance today.  She did not enter a plea and waived her right to a 15-day preliminary hearing.  Prosecutors say Holloway intentionally ran over the people on the sidewalk.  Holloway faces charges including murder, leaving the scene of an accident and child abuse in connection with the rundown that killed one person and injured dozens more.  Holloway's next court date is set for January 20th. 

Man Accused Of Prostituting Women With Disabilities

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is accused of forcing women with developmental disabilities to work as prostitutes.  Mark Loinu Paye pleaded not guilty to 34 prostitution-related charges.  The incidents allegedly happened with five different women between April and September 2014.  Paye had reportedly been warned about his alleged illegal activity in the past and was told to stop, but he ignored the warnings.  He's being held on more than one-point-five-million-dollars bail. 

Owl Attacks On Joggers In Salem Resume

(Salem, OR)  --  The owl attacks on joggers in Salem are back.  At the beginning of the year, an owl started attacking joggers in Bush's Pasture Park.  Less than a year later, the angry owls are back.  At least two attacks have been reported around the North Mall Office Building, about a mile-and-a-half north of where they were reported in January.  An animal behavior specialist at Willamette University says this is the right time for owls to become territorial.  To report an owl attack, visit the Owl Attacks Facebook page. 

Multnomah County Sex Offender Arrested In Warrenton

(Warrenton, OR)  --  A convicted sex offender in Multnomah County is facing sexual abuse charges in Warrenton.  Sidney Sean Mecham met the 16-year-old boy at a park last summer and became a family friend of the victim.  The victim told his family about the abuse after the man harassed him in December.  The alleged abuse took place in October but the boy was able to end it in late November.  Mecham was booked into Clatsop County Jail. 

Angry Man Leaves Chickens Inside Dept Of Revenue

(Eugene, OR)  --  Police say a man who was angry with the Oregon Department of Revenue dropped off seven chickens inside the Eugene office.  Authorities were called around 12:20 yesterday afternoon on reports of a flock of chickens in the office.  A Eugene animal welfare officer helped police round up the chickens and take them to a shelter.  The man who left them was cited for trespassing. 

Gas Much Cheaper This Christmas

(Undated)  --  Traveling this Christmas across Portland is much cheaper this year than last year.  Triple-A's Daily Fuel Gauge Report shows the average price of a gallon of regular gas in Portland is two-34 this morning.  That's about 29-cents less than the price of gas last Christmas Eve.  The nation's average price is right at two-bucks. 

Oregon In Top Half In Nation For Gun Ownership

(Undated)  --  Oregon is in the top half of the nation in the rate of gun ownership.  With gun sales on the rise after recent mass shootings, CBS News is ranking the states with the most gun owners based on the most recent official ATF records in 2013.  It found Oregon is tied for 23rd in the nation with eleven-point-four guns for every one-thousand residents.  In the most recent figures, the state had nearly 45-thousand registered firearms. 

Portland Rated Average At Caring For Others

(Undated)  --  When it comes to giving back to others, Portland is just average, according to a new survey.  WalletHub has ranked the "Most Caring Cities In America," and among the top 100 populations, Portland comes in almost right in the middle at 49th.  The Rose City got good marks for its high number of community and social service workers, but was dinged for its poverty and shelter home statistics.  Boise, Idaho, was rated as the most caring city in America. 

Gun Sales Seeing Surge In Portland Before Holidays

(Portland, OR)  --  Guns appear to be among the top items on the Christmas lists for Portland residents.  With a handful of recent high-profile shootings in the national news, KATU is reporting local dealers are seeing a bigger than normal surge in sales.  That's notable since December is already a typically good month for sales with the holidays and hunting season closing.

Oregon Woman Charged With Murder In Vegas Crashes

(Las Vegas, NV)  --  The Portland-native accused of slamming her car into a crowd on the Las Vegas Strip is officially charged with murder.  Lakeisha Holloway is accused of killing one person and injuring dozens of others when she intentionally drove onto a sidewalk on the Strip Sunday night.  She was also charged with leaving the scene of an accident and child abuse because her three-year-old daughter was in the car at the time.  Holloway is being held without bond and is expected to appear in court today. 

Census: Oregon Growth Rate Still High

(Undated)  --  Oregon is one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S., according to new Census Bureau estimates.  In new figures released yesterday, Oregon had the tenth-largest growth rate in population between July 1st, 2014, and July 1st of this year.  The Beaver State saw a population increase of one-point-four-five-percent during that span.  In actual numbers, that's nearly 58-thousand people. 

Oregon Zoo's Tusko Dies

(Portland, OR)  --  One of the oldest and largest and most beloved bull elephants in North America is being mourned after it died on Monday at the Oregon Zoo.  Tusko was put to sleep after animal care could no longer help with mobility issues that were from a decades-old foot injury.  The 45-year-old elephant had developed severe swelling and limited motion in his foot this week.  At one point, the animal was using its trunk to help support his weight.  Tusko leaves behind two offspring and four other elephants at the Oregon Zoo. 

Missing Woman's Car Found

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say they've found a vehicle at Multnomah Falls that belongs to a woman who was reported missing on Saturday.  Multnomah County Search and Rescue crews are being called out to search the trails for Alissa McCran.  She did not show up for work Monday and had been reported missing since Saturday.  She was last known to have come home after a run near the Portland Adventist Medical Center on Saturday morning.  She left her home and hasn't been seen or heard from since.  Her vehicle was recovered yesterday after being found parked at Multnomah Falls. 

Anonymous $12,000 Given To Portland Dad 2nd Job At Subway

(Portland, OR)  --  An anonymous 12-thousand-dollar gift is helping a Southeast Portland family this holiday season.  The donation was received yesterday morning in an online fund set up for Keith Fons and his family.  He's the guy who lost one of his two full-time jobs at Subway last month.  He was working 80 hours a week to provide for his three children and fiancee who cannot work because of multiple sclerosis.  Fons says he's thankful for everyone who has donated because they've made it possible for him to go back to school. 

Bail Set For Man Accused Of Killing His Wife

(Portland, OR)  --  Bail is set for a Portland man who admitted he shot his wife after a judge says it can't be proven that the death was intentional.  John Coffey's lawyer says the suspect called 911 after the killing and told the dispatcher he shot his wife.  Even though he was extremely intoxicated, he was cooperative and followed police instructions to walk out of his apartment with his hands in the air.  His lawyer says the 911 call is clearly a man who's emotionally distraught and so intoxicated he can't give his phone number. 

Man Fatally Stabs Mother's Boyfriend

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A man is facing murder charges after stabbing his mom's boyfriend.  Police say Thomas Wearing was suffering from a stab wound to the abdomen when they responded to an assault call.  He died at a hospital later.  Wearing lived with his girlfriend and her 20-year-old son Timothy Simpkins who fought with the man Monday night.  Simpkins allegedly stabbed Wearing during the argument and was booked into the Washington County Jail. 

New Chipotle E. Coli Outbreak Misses Oregon

(Undated)  --  A second outbreak of a rare strain of E. coli linked to Chipotle restaurants is under investigation, but this time Oregon isn't affected.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says at least five people are sick with a new strain, including three cases in Oklahoma and one each in Kansas and North Dakota.  In the first outbreak, at least 13 people became ill in Oregon in addition to 40 others in eight states. 

December Is Wettest In Portland History

(Portland, OR)  --  December is going down as the wettest final month in Portland history.  Portland International Airport has seen 13-point-five-two-inches of rain through yesterday morning.  That's already broken the record for December, set in 1996. 

Officials: Suspect In Las Vegas Incident Driving On Suspended License

(Las Vegas, NV)  --  Officials in Oregon say the woman who slammed her car through a crowd on the Las Vegas Strip was driving on a suspended license.  Lakeisha Holloway of Portland killed one person and injured over 30 others when she drove onto a sidewalk on the Strip last night.  Las Vegas police say surveillance video makes it clear that Holloway's actions were intentional.  Authorities also described Holloway as stoic when she was arrested.  She is facing charges that include murder and attempted murder. 

Oregon Agrees To Record Settlement In Foster Parent Abuse Case

(Portland, OR)  --  Oregon is agreeing to a record settlement for wrongdoing by a state agency.  The state has resolved a federal lawsuit on behalf of nine children abused by a Salem foster father by agreeing to a record 15-million-dollar statement.  Former foster parent, James Earl Mooney, is now serving 50 years in prison. 

Bike Thief To Spend At Least 18 Months In Prison

(Portland, OR)  --  The man prosecutors say is the city's most notorious bike thief is off the streets for now.  Leroy Parsons, Jr. was sentenced to 30 months in prison yesterday after he was charged, again, for first-degree theft.  He could end up serving only 18 months if he successfully completes a drug treatment program while behind bars.  Parsons was caught up in a bike theft sting set up by the news show "Inside Edition" in an episode that aired November 13th.  He has 25 felony and misdemeanor convictions in Oregon from theft to possession of meth and identity theft. 

House And Corvette Crushed By Wind-Blown Trees

(Forest Grove, OR)  --  A home and Corvette are severely damaged after strong winds knocked trees over yesterday.  A 19-year-old was home with her younger siblings when a tree fell and left a hole in the roof of their living room.  They were all uninjured.  Another tree fell onto a Corvette parked at a home on the west side.  The car was crushed and the owner wasn't home at the time. 

Police Search For Missing Portland Woman

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are searching for a Portland woman who has been missing since Saturday.  Police say Alissa McCran finished a run in the area of Portland Adventist Medical Center Saturday morning before leaving her home in the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood.  She hasn't been seen or heard from since.  She is five-three with black hair and brown eyes.  Her car is a Mazda CX7 and it's also missing.  It has Oregon license plates and a large Portland Timbers "T" sticker on the back window. 

Portland Named Best Food City

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland is considered the number one city for food in America.  Earlier this year, a "Washington Post" restaurant critic set out to rank the top ten food cities in the country.  He said his favorite things are the ingredients like "300 kinds of truffles" and "berries so delicate they don't leave the state."  He did say that Portland doesn't have enough fine-dining establishments, though. 

Mount Tabor Reservoirs Disconnected From Water System

(Portland, OR)  --  The three Mount Tabor reservoirs are now disconnected from Portland's water distribution system.  The "Portland Tribune" reports the action fulfills a commitment made by the city to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to stop supplying open-reservoir water to Portlanders by the end of 2015.  The Portland City Council has agreed to spend four-million-dollars over the next five years to restore the reservoirs to their original conditions.  
 

Missing Gresham Man Considered Endangered

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police are asking for help in finding a man who's been missing for about a week.  Authorities say Quang Nguyen left his care facility in the four-thousand block of Northeast Division Street on December 12th, saying he was going to a nearby store.  Police describe Nguyen as endangered, saying he's unable to take care of himself and needs medication.  He's five-feet-seven, weighs 180 pounds, has long black spiked hair, a black beard and speaks mostly Vietnamese.  

2 Students Arrested For Disrupting Class

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Two teenagers are facing criminal charges after being accused of disrupting class at the 49th Street Academy in Vancouver.  Authorities say the students, ages 14 and 15, were sent out of a locked area yesterday after becoming verbally disruptive in class, but they regained access and started running through the hallways and pounding on walls.  The 15-year-old is charged with assault and harassment, and both students are charged with disturbing school and its activities.  KATU-TV reports both boys were taken to the Clark County Juvenile Detention Center. 

Manslaughter Charge Dropped Against Man Involved In Deadly Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a man who was involved in a deadly crash in Portland is no longer facing a manslaughter charge.  Matthew Tyler Freeman has pleaded guilty to DUI, and has paid a 130-dollar fine after being cited for "violating the basic speed rule."  Police say Freeman struck and killed 27-year-old Nicholas Glenn Horsey on November 1st before crashing into a pole on North Lombard Street.  Police say surveillance video shows that Horsey stepped into the roadway as Freeman was driving by.  

Portland Aquarium Scheduled To Close In February

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  The Portland Aquarium in Milwaukie is set to shut down in February.  Marketing director Susan Elcox says the aquarium has outgrown the building, which is scheduled to be demolished after the aquarium closes on February 15th.  She says it's possible the Portland Aquarium will resurface in another, larger location, which hasn't been determined.  Aquarium director Rober McBee told KOIN-TV most of the animals will be transported to one of the company's aquariums in Austin, Texas.  

Police ID Man Killed In Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  Police continue to investigate a shooting that killed a man in Southeast Portland.  The victim has been identified as 21-year-old Kyle Polk, who was gunned down Wednesday afternoon near a Plaid Pantry store in the area of Southeast 112th and Division Street.  Police are looking for a white SUV that was seen driving south on 112th. 
 

Electrical Fire Cuts Power To SW Portland Traffic Signals

(Portland, OR)  --  Traffic-signal operations are getting back to normal in Southwest Portland, after power to those signals was cut by an electrical fire.  Portland Bureau of Transportation officials say yesterday's outage affected traffic signals on major corridors including Southwest Barbur Boulevard, Macadam Avenue, and Terwilliger Boulevard.  Power went out around 4:30 yesterday evening after an electrical equipment problem sparked the fire on a utility pole. 

Portland-area Fuel Prices Steady

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices in the Portland area remain steady.  Triple-A reports the average of two-32 for a gallon of regular has remained fairly constant over the past week.  The national average for regular is two-dollars a gallon. 

Body Found Under Overpass In Tigard

(Tigard, OR)  --  Police are investigating after the body of a young woman was found beneath the Hall Boulevard overpass in Tigard.  Southbound 217 was shut down last night between Greenburg Road and Pacific Highway after the body was found.  Police are calling the death suspicious.  An autopsy will be conducted.

Man Accused Of Committing Four Robberies In 90 Minutes

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is facing multiple charges after being accused of committing a 90-minute crime spree.  Portland police say 26-year-old Patrick Miles Gazeley-Romney committed three robberies Monday night at businesses in Portland, Beaverton and Milwaukie.  The spree began at Chico's clothing store on West Burnside, where several shots were fired but no one was injured.  Police say the suspect also tried to rob a woman in Portland, following a crash on Southwest Capitol Highway. 

WA Football Coach Files Federal Complaint Against School District

(Bremerton, WA)  --  The Bremerton, Washington School District is the subject of a federal complaint filed by a Bremerton High assistant football coach who was suspended for praying after games.  Joe Kennedy told Q-13 he's a victim of discrimination because of his religious beliefs.  The complaint was filed by Kennedy's attorneys with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.  Kennedy says he's had offers to coach at other schools but wants to stay in Bremerton.

Portland Man Accused Of $50K Shoplifting Spree

(Portland, OR)  --  A 28-year-old Portland man is in custody after being accused of shoplifting 50-thousand-dollars of high-end merchandise.  "The Oregonian" reports Thomas R. Thompson told investigators he stole repeatedly from Macy's and Champs Sports at Lloyd Center, and from Nordstrom and Abbot & Rinehart Jewelers in downtown Portland, so he could support his heroin habit.  Police say Thompson made off with items ranging from sneakers to Rolex watches.  He's facing charges of aggravated theft and identity theft. 

Fire Damages Basement Of Historic NW Portland Bar

(Portland, OR)  --  No injuries are being reported after a fire broke out in the basement of a historic bar in Northwest Portland.  Fire officials say the blaze was reported around 7:30 last night at Slabtown, a famous dive bar and music venue on Northwest 16th Avenue that closed its doors last year.  Portland Fire & Rescue says firefighters had to battle the flames from outside because holes in the first floor made conditions too dangerous.  Investigators are trying to determine the cause of the two-alarm fire. 

Report: 442 Violations Found Against Ride The Ducks

(Seattle, WA)  --  State regulators say they've found 442 safety violations by tour company Ride the Ducks Seattle following a deadly crash involving one of its amphibious vehicles in September.  Five people were killed and dozens of others were injured in the Aurora Bridge accident, and the company's operations were suspended by the state Utilities and Transportation Commission.  The UTC report, released yesterday, recommends fines of up to one-thousand-dollars for each violation.  The commission will hold a hearing Monday to decide whether to lift the suspension. 

Portland-area Gas Prices Flat

(Portland, OR)  --  There's little change in gas prices from yesterday in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-32 a gallon, which is still more than a penny a gallon below the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-01 a gallon. 

Police ID Truck Driver Killed In Fiery Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  Police continue to investigate a fiery crash involving a semi truck and a parked train in Portland.  Authorities say 41-year-old Andrew Lambert of Vancouver had been driving the semi carrying fuel along Highway 30 near the St. Johns Bridge when the crash happened Sunday morning.  The impact sparked a huge fire that sent up a column of black smoke that could be seen for miles.  Investigators are trying to determine what led to the crash.  
 

Woman Accused Of Biting 11-year-old Son

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say they've arrested a woman who's accused of biting her eleven-year-old son.  Officials say 30-year-old Heidi Lynn Boyum apparently bit her son as he tried to intervene in a fight between his mother and her boyfriend Saturday at a home on Southeast 148th Avenue.  Police say the boy had a large bite mark on his arm and several small cuts and scratches.  Boyum is charged with fourth-degree assault and first-degree criminal mistreatment. 

Seattle-area Suspects Arrested In ID Theft Operation

(West Linn, OR)  --  Five adults and a juvenile girl, all from the Seattle area, are in custody in connection with an identity-theft operation in Oregon.  West Linn police say the six are accused of using credit-card information stolen from over 100 people to buy thousands of dollars' worth of gift cards.  Officials say the group used stolen credit cards to purchase gift cards at a Safeway in West Linn in November 29th, and were spotted attempting similar crimes in Oregon City.  Each of the suspects is facing multiple charges, including first-degree aggravated theft, organized retail theft, and aggravated identity theft. 
 

 

Amber Alert Cancelled After Girls Found Safe

(Pasco, WA)  --  Authorities say two small children who were subjects of an AMBER Alert out of Pasco, Washington have been found safe.  Pasco police say the girls, ages one and three, were in a car that was stolen around 6:45 last night.  The car was later found abandoned more than an hour later, and both children were still in it.  Police haven't released any information on the suspect. 

Man Shot In Southeast Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating a shooting that left a man wounded in Southeast Portland.  Authorities say the shooting was reported in the area of Southeast 122nd Avenue and Stark Street around 10:45 last night.  The victim's injuries are described as non-life-threatening.  Police are looking for a dark-colored SUV that was reported to have left the scene. 

Portland Man Accused Of Bank Robbery, Carjacking

(Sandy, OR)  --  A Portland man is facing multiple charges, following a bank holdup in Sandy.  Bail has been set at a half-million dollars for 21-year-old Aaron Larson, who police say carjacked a woman around noon yesterday, robbed a US Bank branch at gunpoint, and crashed the stolen SUV afterward.  Officials say Larson then fled the SUV on foot and managed to lose a good portion of the money he stole.  He's been booked into the Clackamas County Jail. 
 

Fuel Prices Slightly Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is slightly higher in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-32, up a half-cent from yesterday.  It's still nearly two cents a gallon cheaper than the average of a week ago. 

Fired Washington County Deputy Faces Criminal Charges

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A Washington County sheriff's deputy who was fired is now facing criminal charges.  Jonathan Christensen was being investigated after an anonymous email accused him of misconduct.  He was fired in June after being served with a restraining order.  Christensen was recently indicted on multiple charges, including coercion, official misconduct, and domestic assault. 

One Lane Of NB I-5 Near Woodland Closed Indefinitely

(Woodland, WA)  --  Washington state transportation officials say one northbound lane of Interstate 5 near Woodland will be closed indefinitely.  Two lanes were reopened Thursday after space was cleared from a rock- and mudslide that covered the highway Wednesday.  WSDOT says keeping a single lane closed will keep traffic moving safely while the agency develops the next steps for stabilizing the hillside.  KGW-TV reports concrete barriers are in place to separate the two open lanes of northbound I-5 from the closed lane. 

Hundreds March To End Gun Violence

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland is among several dozen cities nationwide that took part in weekend rallies against gun violence.  Hundreds of people, many wearing orange, gathered in Peninsula Park yesterday for a march.  The rally marked the third anniversary of the Sandy Hook school massacre.  Governor Kate Brown and Portland Mayor Charlie Hales spoke at yesterday's rally.  

Suspect In Hit-and-run Faces Manslaughter Charge

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused of killing a bicyclist in a hit-and-run crash in Northeast Portland is facing a second-degree manslaughter charge.  Authorities say Kenneth Britt Smith, Jr. was arrested hours after the Saturday night crash that killed the 38-year-old cyclist.  Police say the victim died after he was struck from behind in the 42-hundred block of Northeast Portland Highway.  Smith was arrested after officers spotted his vehicle in the area of Northeast 97th and Killingsworth. 

One Dead After Semi Crashes Into Train

(Portland, OR)  --  One person is dead, after a tractor-trailer rig crashed into rail cars parked off Highway 30 near the St. Johns Bridge.  The driver of the rig, which was carrying fuel, was killed when the semi exploded into flames around nine o'clock yesterday morning.  The train cars were carrying liquid asphalt, and also caught fire, sending a large column of black smoke into the air.  Firefighters brought the flames under control in about two hours.  No one else was injured. 

Gasoline Prices Fall

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline continues to drop in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular fell about a half-cent from yesterday, to two-31 a gallon.  It's also two cents a gallon below the average of a week ago.  

Salem Man Shot When He Walks In On Burglar

(Salem, OR)  --  Police say a Salem homeowner was shot after arriving at his house while a burglary was in progress.  Officials say the 64-year-old man arrived at his home around 1:25 yesterday afternoon and saw the burglar, then exchanged gunfire with him.  The homeowner suffered an injury that wasn't life-threatening.  Police say the burglar, described as a 25-to-30-year-old male with a dark complexion, fled the scene on foot and is still at large. 

West Coast Mayors Summit Held In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  Today is the second day of the two-day West Coast Mayors Summit, which is being held in Portland.  Mayor Charlie Hales is the host, and the guest list includes Seattle Mayor Ed Murray, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy, and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.  Officials say the goal of the event is to "exchange information and best practices, develop a joint federal agenda, and identify action items on mutual issues."  Discussions regarding climate change will be on today's agenda.

Northbound I-5 Near Woodland Open Again

(Woodland, WA)  --  The northbound lanes of Interstate 5 near Woodland, Washington are open again.  A rock- and mudslide Wednesday prevented northbound passage along the highway.  Washington state transportation crews had one northbound lane open by six o'clock yesterday evening, and a second lane was open by 9:15.  WSDOT says all lanes should be clear by Sunday night.

Brown Declares State Of Emergency In 13 Counties

(Salem, OR)  --  A state of emergency is in effect in 13 Oregon counties, following a declaration by Governor Kate Brown.  The declaration was made because of severe weather that's caused power outages, damaged homes and businesses, and washed out a number of roads.  The governor says the declaration ensures that state resources, emergency response personnel, and equipment can be activated to respond to communities in need.

Tornado Confirmed In Battle Ground

(Battle Ground, WA)  --  A tornado that ripped through Southwestern Washington is the latest in a series of volatile weather events in the Pacific Northwest.  Three-dozen homes and two businesses sustained damage in Battle Ground, in what has been confirmed by the National Weather Service as an EF1 tornado.  The twister touched down around 11:15 yesterday morning.  No injuries or deaths have been reported. 

Powerball Jackpot Rising

(Salem, OR)  --  The Powerball jackpot is still on the rise.  There were no big jackpot winners resulting from last night's drawing, so the grand prize will move up to an estimated 164-million dollars for the drawing Saturday night.  The cash option will be more than 99-million.

Storm-related Death In Columbia County

(Clatskanie, OR)  --  A woman is dead, after she drowned in high water in Columbia County.  Clatskanie Rural Fire Chief Steve Sharek told KGW-TV that a man drove likely himself and the woman around a road closure sign yesterday near the intersection of Highway 30 and Lost Creek Road.  The car drifted and began sinking, and the man climbed atop the car and was later rescued.  The woman, whose name hasn't been released, died at the scene. 
 

Portland-Vancouver Amtrak Expected To Be Restored Today

(Portland, OR)  --  Amtrak service between Portland and Vancouver is expected to be restored today.  High water over the tracks prompted the service to be suspended earlier this week, and Amtrak Cascades passengers were taken to their destinations by bus.  "The Oregonian" reports Coast Starlight trains will continue to be rerouted over Union Pacific tracks before resuming their regular routes north of the Columbia River.  Empire Builder trains are being rerouted along Union Pacific tracks south of the Columbia River, and then proceed to Spokane. 

Authorities ID Woman Killed By Falling Tree

(Portland, OR)  --  A woman is dead, after a tree fell on her home in Southeast Portland.  Police say 60-year-old Roberta Elleson was killed when the tree fell from her neighbor's property and crashed through the bedroom where she was sleeping.  The incident happened around 3:40 yesterday morning in the nine-thousand block of Southeast Insley Street.  Fire officials say Elleson's husband and brother were able to get out of the house safely. 

Rockslide Forces Closure Of I-5 In Cowlitz County

(Woodland, WA)  --  Drivers are urged to avoid Interstate 5 near Woodland in Cowlitz County, where a rockslide has forced that stretch of the highway to be shut down.  The Washington State Department of Transportation says the highway is blocked with about 100 cubic yards of debris at milepost 22 near Dike Road, and won't be cleared until later today.  Governor Jay Inslee has proclaimed a state of emergency throughout Washington as a result of damaging rainstorms sweeping through the state.  
 

Powerball Drawing For $145-Million Grand Prize

(Salem, OR)  --  A big jackpot is up for grabs in tonight's Powerball drawing.  The grand prize is an estimated 145-million-dollars, the largest Powerball jackpot since a ticket sold in Michigan won 310-million September 30th.  The cash option for tonight's drawing is 88-million-dollars.

Amtrak Service Suspended Between Portland And Vancouver

(Portland, OR)  --  Flooding on the tracks has prompted Amtrak service to be suspended between Portland and Vancouver.  An Amtrak spokeswoman told "The Oregonian" that the BNSF Railway has closed its tracks north of Union Station in Portland until the water recedes.  Officials say passengers on Amtrak's Cascades trains are being taken by bus between Portland and Vancouver.  Coast Starlight and Empire Builder trains are being rerouted over Union Pacific Railroad tracks.

Rain Wreaking Havoc On Northwest

(Portland, OR)  --  Record amounts of rainfall are causing headaches for drivers across northwestern Oregon and southwestern Washington.  Roads have been washed out, vehicles have been damaged, and businesses and homes have flooded.  A flood emergency is in effect in Cowlitz County, Washington and several landslides have been reported north of Kalama [[ kah-LAM-ah ]] River Road.  A home was hit by a landslide with the occupant trapped inside, but that person was rescued and taken to a hospital.

Section Of Highway 30 Covered By Landslide

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say traffic is slowly getting back to normal on Highway 30 after both lanes were blocked by a landslide yesterday near the St. Johns Bridge.  Crews expect to have both directions cleared later today, but all traffic is currently splitting the westbound side of the highway.  Engineers will be busy this morning assessing the stability of the slope above the roadway.

Gas Prices Steady

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are flat from yesterday in metro Portland.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular is two-33 a gallon, two-cents below the average of a week ago.  At this time last year, the Portland-area average for regular was two-92 a gallon. 

Rafts Used To Rescue Flooded Residents In Milwaukie

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  Police say rafts had to be used to rescue Milwaukie residents who were stranded by floodwaters.  Water levels from yesterday's rainstorms rose so quickly that many people were trapped in their homes.  Officials say 50 people were forced to evacuate in the area of Southeast Lake Road and Rusk Road.  Fire officials told KGW-TV that the area frequently experiences flooding, but normally not to this extent.

U-Haul Driver Killed In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  Investigators are trying to determine what caused a crash that killed a U-Haul driver in Northeast Portland.  Police say the driver lost control of the U-Haul and crashed into a tree near the intersection of Northeast Glisan and 91st Avenue around two o'clock yesterday afternoon.  The driver's name hasn't been released.

Survey Ranks Washington, Oregon Among "Best-run States"

(Undated)  --  Financial news-and-opinion website 24/7 Wall Street ranks Washington and Oregon among the nation's best-run states.  The rankings, which have the Evergreen State ranked ninth, are based on data that include debt per capita, median household income, poverty rate, and unemployment rate.  Oregon ranks 15th in the survey.  North Dakota is ranked as the nation's best-run state, while New Mexico ranks at the bottom. 

Parade Celebrating Timbers' MLS Cup Set For Today

(Portland, OR)  --  Wet weather notwithstanding, fans will be able to help the Portland Timbers celebrate their first-ever MLS Cup, with a downtown parade today.  The procession is set to begin at noon at Southwest Broadway and Stark Street, travel eight blocks, and end at Southwest Broadway and Madison.  A rally is scheduled at six this evening at Providence Park. 

Flooding Hits Metro Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  More wet weather is expected this week in metro Portland, which was hit yesterday with flooding caused by heavy rains.  Bus and light-rail service were interrupted in some areas, as a number of roads were forced to close.  People who live along the Clackamas River in Eagle Creek and Estacada [[ ESS-ta-KAY-dah ]] have been put on notice in case they need to evacuate.  The river is expected to crest this evening at 24 feet. 

Powerball Jackpot Nears $150 Million

(Salem, OR)  --  The jackpot continues to grow in the multi-state Powerball game.  None of the tickets sold for the weekend drawing matched all the numbers pulled, so the grand prize for Wednesday night's drawing will roll over to an estimated 145-million dollars.  The cash option will be 88-million.

Crab Seasons Delayed In Oregon, Washington

(Oregon City, OR)  --  The commercial crab seasons in Oregon and Washington are being delayed.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says unusually large areas of warm water have resulted in dangerous levels of toxin found in the crabs.  NOAA scientists say the combination of warm water and low nutrient levels triggered a massive algae bloom.  Oceanographer Dr. Bill Peterson told KATU-TV he hopes the crab seasons can get going before Christmas, as the ocean is cooling and the area containing the toxin has dissipated.  

Man Dies In Possible Hit-and-run

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vancouver police are investigating the death of a man who was found lying in a roadway.  The body was found early yesterday morning in the six-hundred block of North Blandford Drive.  Police say the man may have been the victim of a hit-and-run.  His name hasn't been released, and there's no word on a suspect vehicle. 

Gasoline Prices Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump are lower in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-33 a gallon, down a half-cent from yesterday.  It's also two-cents a gallon cheaper than the average of a week ago. 
 

Police ID ATV Driver Killed In Crash

(Molalla, OR)  --  The Washington County Sheriff's Office is still investigating an ATV crash that left a man dead.  Deputies say 50-year-old Steven Harmon of Molalla was riding on a rural trail Sunday night with friends when he crashed.  Authorities say the ATV may have rolled on Harmon as he tried to turn the vehicle on a slope.  

One Dead, Several Injured Following Fire

(Portland, OR)  --  One person is dead and several others are injured following a house fire in Northeast Portland.  Officials say the blaze was reported yesterday morning at the home in the 12-thousand-300 block of Northeast Hassalo Street.  An elderly woman was found dead in her bedroom.  Another woman and three young children were able to get out of the house and all were hospitalized with minor injuries. 

Human Skull Found In Washington Forest

(Gold Bar, WA)  --  The Snohomish County, Washington, Medical Examiner's Office is studying a human skull that was found last week between Index and Gold Bar near Highway 2.  A logger contacted the sheriff's office after finding the skull while marking trees on private property.  Deputies say no other human remains were found with the skull.  Detectives are trying to determine how and why the skull came to be in the area.  

Paid Parental Leave Approved For Portland City Employees

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland city employees will become eligible for paid parental leave starting in January.  The City Council has approved six weeks of paid leave following the birth of a child, an adoption, or receiving a foster child.  The new rules apply to both genders.  The city of Portland took the action two months after Multnomah County approved a similar policy. 

Woman Suspected In Vancouver Man's Murder Dies In CA Crash

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Authorities say it's been confirmed that a woman who was suspected of killing a Vancouver man died in a crash in California.  A coroner's report states that 18-year-old Ailiana Siufanua of Des Moines, Washington, was killed in the Tuesday crash on Interstate 5 in Yolo County.  She was suspected in the November 25th shooting death of Bentley Brookes inside Pacific Gold and Precious Metals on North Main Street in Vancouver. 

Officials: Multnomah County Jail Inmate Died Of Natural Causes

(Portland, OR)  --  The Multnomah County Medical Examiner says natural causes led to the death of a county jail inmate in his cell.  Fifty-eight-year-old Gary Steven Davis was found unresponsive during a routine check Tuesday morning, and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.  Davis had been booked the previous Friday on a trespassing charge. 

Police Chase Ends With Car Crashing Into Apartments

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A man is facing multiple charges after he crashed his vehicle into an apartment building in Vancouver.  Authorities say 41-year-old Douglas Atkins fled Tuesday night when officers arrived at the scene of a reported assault on a woman.  Officials say Atkins led officers on a high-speed chase along Grand Boulevard and traveled off the roadway, going airborne and jumping two parked cars, then going down an embankment and hitting the apartment building.  Atkins, who's being treated at a hospital, is facing charges that include eluding police, fourth-degree assault and DUI. 

Wrongfully-Convicted Prisoner Freed After 15 Years

(Clallam Bay, WA)  --  A man who was wrongly convicted of murder in 2002 is now free.  Donovan Allen was 18 when he was found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of his mother in Longview, but newly-discovered DNA evidence has led to a new trial.  Attorneys from the University of Washington Innocence Project were able to facilitate the trial for Allen's cousin, saying the DNA linked him to the crime.  After the new trial was granted, the Cowlitz County District Attorney's Office vacated the murder charge against Allen. 

Gas Prices Cheaper

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices are cheaper today in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is two-34 a gallon, about a penny below yesterday's average.  The national average for regular is two-05 a gallon. 

E. Coli Recall Expanded

(Washington, DC)  --  The federal Food and Drug Administration is expanding its recall of celery that was the source of an E. coli recall linked to Costco stores in a number of Western states.  The recall now covers more than a dozen states and includes products sold at chains including Walmart, Target, Sam's Club, Safeway, Albertsons and 7-Eleven.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 19 people in seven states, including Washington, were infected after eating chicken salad made with celery produced by Taylor Farms of California.  The expanded recall includes 155-thousand items such as salad kits, vegetable trays and other prepared foods. 

Gun Dealer Accused Of Making Silencer

(Albany, OR)  --  A firearms dealer in Albany is accused of making a silencer for someone not legally allowed to own a gun.  Police say a three-week investigation led to the arrest of Jose Morales, who operates GNA Supplies on Southeast 2nd Avenue in Albany.  Investigators say Morales knew the person was not permitted to own a gun.  Morales is facing weapons- and drug-related charges. 

Suspect In Vancouver Murder Identified

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Police say the woman suspected in last week's murder of a Vancouver man may have died in a California crash.  Authorities say 18-year-old Ailiana Siufanua of Des Moines, Washington, is believed to have shot 58-year-old Bentley Brookes to death at Pacific Gold and Precious Metals on North Main Street.  Officials say Siufanua may have died yesterday in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 in Yolo County, California.  A coroner's report is pending. 

 

Search Suspended For Missing Portland Climber

(Wenatchee, WA)  --  Chelan County, Washington authorities say weather conditions have prompted them to suspend the search for a climber from Portland who disappeared in the Colchuck Lake area.  Thirty-three-year-old Adam Ochshorn, who's a music teacher in the Portland area, is said to be an experienced climber who had planned to climb Colchuck Peak last weekend.  Search crews found his vehicle and his campsite, but no sign of Ochshorn.  He teaches piano and drums at CHORDnation in Tigard. 

Two Injured When Car Crashes Into Jack-in-the-Box

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Police are investigating after a car crashed into a Jack-in-the-Box restaurant in Vancouver and injured two people.  Fire officials say the driver of the car may have suffered a medical emergency that led to the crash into the Northeast 117th Avenue restaurant around noon yesterday.  The driver and an employee in the restaurant suffered non-life-threatening injuries.  Witnesses told police the car crossed into oncoming traffic, over a sidewalk and into the restaurant.

Area Gas Prices Flat

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices are unchanged in the Portland metro area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-35 a gallon, which is about a penny a gallon below the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-oh-four a gallon.  

High-Rise Condo Planned For Pearl District

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland developer is planning a high-rise condominium for the Pearl District.  Hoyt Street Properties is proposing construction of a 20-story residential building, to be located next to The Fields Neighborhood Park.  "The Oregonian" reports the condo would have 150 units and accommodate 190 parking spaces.  Boora Architects of Portland is designing the high-rise. 

Stolen Dog Reunited With Family, Suspect Arrested

(Sherwood, OR)  --  Washington County deputies say a dog that was stolen nearly a year ago has been reunited with its family.  The Australian Shepherd, named Pippin, was taken from the front of a store in Beaverton.  Bail is set at ten-thousand-dollars for 54-year-old Penelope Whipple, who's charged with felony first-degree theft of a companion animal.  Pippin is back home and said to be doing fine after being identified through a chip implant.

Climber Dies On Mount Jefferson

(Marion County, OR)  --  Marion County authorities say a 32-year-old Keizer man died when he fell into a crevasse while climbing Mount Jefferson.  Officials say Thomas Fountain was climbing with his wife when he fell into the crevasse Sunday.  The couple was reached yesterday morning by crews from Corvallis Mountain Rescue and Eugene Mountain Rescue.  Efforts to recover Fountain's body in the difficult terrain will resume today. 

Poll: Washington Teacher Shortage At Crisis Level

(Olympia, WA)  --  Principals across Washington say the state's shortage of teachers is at a crisis level.  A survey of 730 principals shows 80-percent who were questioned say they've had to hire under-qualified teachers, while 74-percent say they've had to serve as substitutes for classroom teachers.  The surveys were commissioned by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and Association of Washington School Principals.  Forty-five-percent of principals surveyed say they weren't able to fill all positions with fully certified teachers who met job qualifications.

Fuel Prices Decrease

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump are slightly lower in the Portland area.  Triple-A's latest survey shows a gallon of regular averages two-35 a gallon, a half-cent below yesterday's average.  The national average for regular is two-04 a gallon. 

Sex-abuse Suspect Being Sought

(Woodburn, OR)  --  Police in Woodburn are looking for a man who's accused of sexual abuse and giving meth to a minor.  Authorities say 30-year-old Victor David Lopez Bautista, who's facing multiple charges, is five-feet-ten, weighs 200 pounds, has black hair, brown eyes, and a tattoo of a feather on his neck.  Anyone who has information helpful to investigators is asked to call 503-982-2345. 

Officials Say Four Madison High Fires Connected

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say two fires that led to classes being dismissed early at Madison High School yesterday are related to two other fires at the school last week.  Yesterday's fires were doused quickly after being found in a boys' bathroom and a food-storage room.  A week before, two fires were set in a boys' bathroom.  No one was hurt in any of the fires.  Officials believe the fires were set by one or more students. 

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