Regional News Archives for 2015-01

GDP Consumption Strong

On this last trading day of January the S&P 500 faces an uphill battle today to breakeven for the month.

The government says the US economy grew at a 2.6% rate in the fourth quarter of 2014. That is a little lighter than expected.  Consumption was strong and inventories declined on the back of falling prices.   

Contracts to buy previously owned U.S. homes fell more than expected in December as tighter inventory and an increase in house prices discouraged buyers. Compared to December of 2013, contracts were up 6.1%. (Reuters)

The number of people seeking unemployment aid plunged last week to the lowest level in almost 15 years. Weekly applications dropped 43,000 to a seasonally adjusted 265,000. That is the lowest level since April 2000. (AP)

Retirement savers achieved record 401(k) balances in 2014. The average 401(k) balance hit a record high of $91,300 last year, according to Fidelity Investments. Only a tiny fraction of plan participants ever reach the million-dollar mark. About 72,000 workers amassed $1 million or more in their 401(k) retirement plans at the end of 2014. That's nearly twice as many as in 2012 and almost five times as many as a decade ago. (CNBC)

Join us Saturday at 10 for Financial Focus when Troy and Tyler will talk about how to keep your wealth building plans on track with renewed volatility.

Daimler Settles Complaints For $2.4 Million

(Portland, OR)  --  Six former employees of Portland-based Daimler Trucks North America will receive a settlement of two-point-four-million dollars.  The ex-employees filed a civil rights complaint last year against Daimler, alleging violent threats and racism in the workplace.  The complaint was filed last September, claiming that Daimler failed to take appropriate action after the threats were made and the complainants were called racist names.  KGW-TV reports the settlement also includes an installation of a civil-rights complaint hotline for employees.

Ex-OSU Student Accused Of Making Adult Video In Library

(Corvallis, OR)  --  A woman is facing a charge of public indecency after being accused of shooting an adult video of herself at the Valley Library while she was a student at Oregon State University.  OSU officials have confirmed the video was shot at the library and was posted online.  Nineteen-year-old Kendra Jane Sunderland faces as much as a year behind bars if found guilty of the misdemeanor charge.

Kitzhaber To Discuss Ethics Questions About Fiancee

(Portland, OR)  --  Governor John Kitzhaber is scheduled to go before reporters later this morning to address ethics questions about his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes.  The first lady confirmed earlier this week that the Clean Economy Development Center paid her 118-thousand dollars in consulting fees during 2011 and 2012 while she was serving as Kitzhaber's clean energy and economic development adviser.  Hayes also served as CEO of her consulting firm, 3E Strategies.  She came under scrutiny last year after it was revealed she married an Ethiopian national in the early 90s to help him gain U.S. residency status.

Man Accused Of Ramming Patrol Car During Chase

(Tigard, WA)  --  A man who's accused of ramming a patrol car and another vehicle while being chased by police is in custody.  Authorities say the suspect was pursued last night after he fled from a traffic stop in the area of Southwest 71st Avenue and Oak Street in Tigard.  The man reportedly rammed a police patrol car and another vehicle during the chase, but no injuries were reported.  The chase ended in the Embassy Suites parking lot at Washington Square, and Jacob William Strickler was booked on multiple charges.

Oregon, Washington High School Graduation Rates Up

(Salem, OR)  --  State officials say Oregon's four-year high-school graduation rate improved last year to 72 percent.  But "The Oregonian" reports a change in the definition of a high-school graduate accounted tor the improvement from 2013.  Oregon expanded its graduation definition to include special education students who earn modified diplomas and students who defer receiving their diplomas so they can attend a year of community college for free.  Washington's high-school graduation rate rose one-point-two percentage points last year, improving the four-year rate to 77-point-two percent.

Missing Woman, Son Found Safe

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vancouver police say a missing woman and her one-year-old son have been found safe.  Kristine Bousquet was last seen with her child, leaving her home on East Fifth late last week.  There had been concern about the woman's ability to care for the boy.  Police say both the mother and the boy were found safe late last night.

Teacher Accused Of Raping Student Makes Court Appearance

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A teacher at Evergreen High School in Vancouver is facing four counts of child rape after being accused of having sex with a student.  The next court appearance is set for February 11th for Stephanie McCrea, who teaches English and drama at Evergreen.  Prosecutors say McCrea manipulated the student by telling him she might commit suicide, and coached him on what to say to authorities if anyone questioned him about the relationship.  McCrea was ordered not have any contact with the victim or any other minor other than her son.

Man Accused In Attempted Murder-suicide Dies

(Oregon City, OR)  --  Oregon City police say a man who shot and critically wounded his wife during a car chase before shooting himself has died of his wounds.  Authorities say Timothy Moffatt shot his wife, Jan, several times Monday afternoon, then turned the gun on himself.  Timothy Moffatt died yesterday.  Jan Moffatt remains in critical condition.

Man Accused Of Robbing Teens Indicted

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused of holding up at least two teens at knife-point in Southeast Portland is under indictment.  A Multnomah County grand jury has handed up the charges against 18-year-old Mulugeta Clarke, who's facing eight counts of robbery and two counts of kidnapping.  Police say Clarke robbed a 15-year-old boy of his phone, wallet, and iPad on January 17th, then pulled a knife on the victim when he demanded the items back.  Clarke is also accused of pulling a knife on another teenager and kidnapping him earlier this month.

Drama Teacher Accused Of Raping Student

(Vancouver, WA)  --  A high-school drama and English teacher in Vancouver is accused of raping a student.  Police say Evergreen High School teacher Stephanie McCrea has been charged with four counts of rape.  School officials say McCrea has been placed on administrative leave.  No information on the age or grade level of the student has been released.

Bill Would Require Cyclists To Pay Fee

(Salem, OR)  --  A measure being considered in the state Legislature would require bicycle riders in Oregon to register and pay a fee.  The measure would require all riders age 17 or older to take a safety test after registering and paying the ten-dollar annual fee.  Under the bill, bike riders who don't comply would be subject to a 250-dollar fine.  Supporters say the bill's purpose is to hold cyclists accountable for safety.

Kitzhaber "Concerned" With Limits On Oregon Home Pot Possession

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor John Kitzhaber says he's "concerned" with the limits on the amount of marijuana an Oregon resident will be allowed to possess at home.  The voter-approved Measure 91 would allow residents 21 and older to possess up to a half-pound of pot at home but only one ounce in public.  The governor says the amount that's allowed to be grown at home appears to exceed the amount someone is allowed to have legally and would be difficult to enforce.  Kitzhaber says he'll send the Oregon Liquor Commission a letter that outlines his general principles regarding marijuana regulation.

Police: Couple Dead As Result Of Murder-suicide Pact

(Beavercreek, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies say a Beavercreek man shot his wife to death and then took his own life as part of a murder-suicide pact.  The two were found dead Monday night in a home in the area of South Butte Road and Jewell Road.  Clackamas County authorities say a note that was left behind stated that both the man in his 80s and the woman in her 70s were terminally ill.  Deputies say the note explained that the couple agreed to die together.

Report: Oregon's High School Graduation Rate Last Among States

(Washington, DC)  --  A new federal report shows Oregon's high-school graduation rate is the lowest of any state in the union.  The U.S. Department of Education says Oregon's rate of four-year graduation in 2013 was 68-point-seven percent, with only Washington, DC trailing.  Iowa had the highest graduation rate at 89-point-seven percent.
 

Teen's Death By Train Ruled Suicide

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Officials say a 17-year-old who was hit and killed by a train in Vancouver committed suicide.  The Clark County Medical Examiner's Office made the ruling yesterday on Joshua J. Develle, who died around 2:42 Monday morning of blunt-force trauma.  Vancouver police say Develle was walking on the tracks that cross Southeast 164th Avenue near Southeast Rivershore Drive when he was killed.
 

Motorcyclist Killed In Milwaukie Crash

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  A motorcyclist is dead, following a crash on Oregon 224 in Milwaukie.  Police say 42-year-old Daniel Graham was eastbound on Southeast Harrison Street near 224 when he was hit by an SUV around 3:30 p.m. yesterday.  Graham died at the scene.  The driver of the SUV, Russell Halverson, remained at the scene and cooperated with police.

Police: Man Shoots Wife, Then Self

(Oregon City, OR)  --  A woman is listed in critical condition after being shot while in her car.  Oregon City police say the woman was hit several times by her husband, who then shot himself.  He's listed in critical but stable condition, as is his wife.  Authorities say the shooting happened around two o'clock yesterday afternoon while the victim was being chased by her husband, who was also in a vehicle.  The chase ended in the area of Glenview Court and Squire Drive.

Man Charged In Deadly Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  Trial is tentatively set for March 9th in the case against Michael Aaron Wyatt Mininger, who's facing charges in the deadly shooting of another man earlier this month.  Mininger is accused of gunning down Randy Alexander Williams on January 8th at the Candalaria Plaza Apartments on Southeast 162nd Avenue in Portland.  The indictment against Mininger says he was previously convicted of third-degree robbery in 2013.  He's being held without bail.

Bicyclist Seriously Injured In Crash

(Oak Grove, OR)  --  Police are investigating a crash that seriously injured an elderly bicyclist in Oak Grove.  Authorities say the 85-year-old man was walking his bike yesterday evening in the median turn lane on 99E near Southeast Silver Springs Road, when he was hit by a pickup truck.  Police say the cyclist was wearing dark clothing and had no reflective material on his bike, and is currently listed in serious condition.  The driver of the pickup cooperated with the investigation.

Man Killed By Train In Vancouver

(Vancouver, WA)  --  An autopsy will be conducted on a man who was hit and killed by a train in Vancouver.  Police say the crash happened around 2:45 this morning near the intersection of Southeast 164th and Rivershore Drive.  A witness told police the man was walking on the tracks when he was hit.  The man's name will be released after his family is notified.

Man Accused In Southeast Portland Homicide

(Portland, OR)  --  A man suspected in a murder that took place in Portland earlier this month is under indictment.  Authorities say 22-year-old Michael Aaron Wyatt Mininger is facing charges of murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the death of 26-year-old Randy Alexander Williams.  Williams, who was shot to death, was found lying in an apartment complex parking lot on Southeast 162nd Avenue.  Mininger is being held in the Multnomah County Jail.

Gresham Man Killed In Avalanche In Italy

(Gresham, OR)  --  A Gresham man who was considered one of the world's top skiers is dead, following an avalanche on Mount Blanc in Italy.  Dave Rosenbarger, who was known in Europe as "American Dave," was killed in the Friday avalanche.  Rosenbarger grew up in Gresham and was a graduate of Gresham High School and the University of Oregon before making his home in Europe.  
 

Twelve-year-old Boy Stabbed Outside Fred Meyer

(Portland, OR)  --  A 12-year-old boy is being treated for a serious wound after being stabbed outside a Portland Fred Meyer store.  The attack happened yesterday afternoon outside the store on Northeast 102nd Avenue.  Police say the boy described the attacker as an older white man.  The victim, who suffered a stab wound to the chest, is expected to survive.

 

Man Critically Injured In Crash During Police Chase

(Forest Grove, OR)  --  A man who was being chased by police is listed in critical condition, after the pursuit ended with a crash.  Police say 29-year-old James Bogosian ran two stop signs yesterday morning and tried to elude a Forest Grove police officer, who was responding to a report of a reckless driver.  After the chase was broken off for safety reasons, Bogosian was later found unconscious after his truck crashed in the area of Gales Creek Road and Owl Drive west of Forest Grove.  Police say Bogosian, who was critically injured, will face DUII and other charges.
 

State Board Approves Longer School Hours

(Salem, OR)  --  The number of hours per school year will soon increase in Oregon.  The state Board of Education has approved a plan that will increase the number of hours for K-through-eight students to at least 900 per year.   Ninth-through-eleventh-graders will be required to attend school for at least 990 hours per year, and 12th-graders at least 966 hours per year.  Board of Education officials say the plan is a way to better prepare students for college.

Elderly Pedestrian Killed In Washington County

(Cedar Mill, OR)  --  The Washington County Sheriff's Office is investigating, after an 80-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by an SUV.  Deputies say the woman was hit around 7:38 last night at the intersection of Southwest Barnes Road and Southwest Monterey Place in Cedar Mill.  Sandra Glassman was pronounced dead at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, and her 54-year-old daughter suffered minor injuries.  The driver of the SUV cooperated with investigators.

Washington, Oregon Add Jobs In December

(Olympia, WA)  --  Washington's jobless rate is slightly higher.  The state Employment Security Department says the rate rose in December to six-point-three percent, up from six-point-two percent in November.  However, officials say year-over-year employment growth in Washington was the highest since 1997, with December's six-point-three-percent rate comparing to six-point-seven percent in December 2013.  Earlier this week, the Oregon Employment Department reported the December jobless rate slipped to six-point-seven percent, as the state added an estimated 82-hundred jobs last month.

Police ID Pedestrian Killed By Tow Truck

(Tigard, OR)  --  Police say a woman who was struck and killed by a tow truck in Tigard was a resident of West Linn.  Authorities say 31-year-old Krista Nielsen may have stepped out into the northbound traffic lane on 99E at 71st Avenue around 2:20 yesterday morning as the truck approached.  Police say the truck driver didn't have enough time to react.

Suspect In Bank Robberies Arrested

(Gresham, OR)  --  A man suspected of holding up a Chase Bank in Gresham is behind bars.  Police say 29-year-old Roman Rogelio Mendez robbed the bank on Northeast Hogan Drive in Gresham on January 5th.  Investigators believe Mendez also held up the Northwest Priority Credit Union on Southeast Division Street in Portland on January 16th.  He was arrested yesterday at a hotel in Northeast Portland.

Man Wounded In Clackamas County Shooting

(Milwaukie, OR)  --  Clackamas County sheriff's deputies are investigating an early-morning shooting in the Oak Grove neighborhood near Milwaukie.  The sheriff's office got the call around 1:15 this morning of shots fired in the 12-thousand-800 block of Southeast 20th Avenue.  KOIN-TV reports a victim was found with a gunshot wound and was taken to a hospital, but there's no word on his condition.  No arrests have been made.

Portland Man Accused Of Attempted Murder

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is charged with attempted murder after being accused of attacking the mother of his child with a hammer.  Prosecutors say 26-year-old Nathan Smith inflicted injuries on the victim that include fractures to her skull and spine during the weekend attack.  Police say Smith broke into the victim's Southeast 72nd Avenue apartment and chased her into the parking lot, then hit her multiple times with the hammer.  Smith's bail is set at 800-thousand dollars.

Man Who Escaped Custody Still At Large

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are still looking for a man who escaped custody while wearing handcuffs.  Authorities believe 44-year-old Andrew McMichael is still in the Southeast Portland area.  McMichael was arrested Saturday on domestic-violence charges, and was able to run from officers after they took him into custody.  Investigators believe someone may be helping hide McMichael.

Four Oregon Mayors To Attend Conference

(Washington, DC)  --  Four Oregon mayors are attending this year's winter meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, which begins today in the nation's capital.  Charlie Hales of Portland, Denny Doyle of Beaverton, John Cook of Tigard, and Shane Bemis of Gresham are among the nearly 300 mayors engaging with Obama administration officials and congressional leaders during the three-day convention.  Six Washington mayors, including Ed Murray of Seattle and David Condon of Spokane, will also attend.  Discussions will be held on the economic health of America's cities.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Drop

(Portland, OR)  --  Fuel prices in the Portland area continue to fall.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is about two-21 a gallon, nearly two cents below yesterday's average.  It's also about a dime a gallon cheaper than a week ago.

Pedestrian Hit, Killed By Tow Truck

(Tigard, OR)  --  Tigard police are investigating a crash that killed a pedestrian early this morning.  Authorities say a woman was struck and killed by a tow truck around 2:20 a.m. in the area of Southwest Pacific Highway and 71st Avenue.  Paramedics treated the woman at the scene but were unable to save her.  The woman's name hasn't been released.

Six Hospitalized Following Hillsboro Crash

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Six people are being hospitalized, following a head-on collision in Hillsboro.  Police say the wreck happened around 9:35 last night at the intersection of Southwest 185th Avenue and Baseline Street.  Fire officials say all six people sustained injuries that aren't considered life-threatening.  Two adults had to be extricated from one of the two vehicles involved in the crash.

Suspect In Ashley Benson Murder Pleads Not Guilty

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused in the murder of Ashley Benson says he's not guilty.  Tae Bum Yoon entered the plea yesterday in a Multnomah County courtroom to charges of murder and first-degree manslaughter.  Benson was found dead on December 26th at a Northeast Portland hotel.  Investigators say Benson met Yoon through an ad on Backpage.com.

Trial To Begin For 18-year-old Accused Of Killing Dad

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man who's accused of killing his father after eating dinner with his parents is slated to go on trial today.  Eighteen-year-old Jacob James Simon is charged with using two swords, a knife, and a gun to kill 61-year-old Peter Anton Simon in March 2012.  After initially being ruled incompetent to stand trial, the younger Simon was deemed last April to be mentally competent enough to participate in his defense.  The defendant claims he's guilty except for insanity and didn't intend to kill his father.

Stray Bullet Hits Child's Bedroom Window

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating after a stray bullet hit the bedroom window of a one-year-old child in Southeast Portland.  Authorities say the child was not hurt when the bullet struck the window Saturday night.  The Portland Police Gang Enforcement Team responded after multiple shots were fired in the area of the Mount Tabor Presbyterian Church, which is about a mile away from the home.  No injuries were reported.

Two Critically Injured In Crash

(Salem, OR)  --  Two men are being treated for critical injuries, following a collision in Salem.  Marion County sheriff's deputies say the two Salem men collided head-on around 2:30 yesterday afternoon, on Liberty Road South near Bunker Hill Road.  The sheriff's office is trying to determine the cause of the crash.

Man Rescued From Damaged Vehicle Following Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who was pinned inside his vehicle after it overturned is being hospitalized.  The rollover crash happened shortly after one p.m. yesterday on Airport Way at 128th Avenue.  The driver was pinned in the car and was removed by Portland Fire & Rescue personnel.  He's being treated for injuries that are not considered life-threatening.

Three Arrested In Connection With Multiple Robberies

(Portland, OR)  --  Three suspects are in custody, following a string of armed robberies.  Portland police say 18-year-old Patrick Dynell Jenkins and two underage teens each face three counts of first-degree robbery in connection with the armed holdups.  Each of the robberies took place yesterday morning, one in Northeast Portland and two in Southeast Portland.  No one was injured in any of the robberies, but police say two handguns were found in the suspects' vehicle.

Man In Handcuffs Escapes From Custody

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are looking for a man who escaped from custody while wearing handcuffs.  Authorities say the suspect, 44-year-old Andrew Phillip McMichael, had been arrested in connection with a domestic-violence investigation, but he broke free from officers Saturday afternoon in the area of Southeast Stark Street and 157th Avenue.  Police were unsuccessful in tracking McMichael with a K-9 unit, and he's still on the loose

Street Fee Advisory Vote Cancelled

(Portland, OR)  --  An advisory vote on a proposed street fee for Portland residents won't be held in May after all.  Mayor Charlie Hales says he's speaking with Governor John Kitzhaber and House Speaker Tina Kotek about state funding being used to help maintain and improve Portland's streets.  The city agreed last week to place three to six funding options on the May ballot, with the one getting the most "yes" votes to be implemented.  But Governor Kitzhaber says that plan has been scrapped, and he's been assured that transportation funding will be among the top priorities in this year's legislative session.
 

Oregon Ranked Among "Safest" States For Drivers' Wallets

(Undated)  --  A new survey shows Oregon is among the safest states when it comes to uninsured drivers and insurance requirements.  The WalletHub report ranks Oregon 7th, with the estimated percentage of uninsured drivers at nine percent.  WalletHub ranks Washington 42nd, with more than 16 percent of drivers in the Evergreen State not carrying auto insurance.  Only four-point-seven percent of drivers are uninsured in Maine, which is ranked the safest state for drivers' wallets.
 

Four Teen Pedestrians Injured In Gresham

(Gresham, OR)  --  Police are investigating after three teenage girls were hit by a car near Centennial High School in Gresham.  None of the three pedestrians suffered serious injuries, but all were taken to a hospital after the incident on Southeast 182nd Avenue yesterday morning.  Police say another teen pedestrian was hit in the same spot yesterday afternoon, but the boy wasn't seriously hurt.

Morrison Bridge To Be Closed Tomorrow

(Portland, OR)  --  The Morrison Bridge is to be closed all day tomorrow.  Multnomah County officials say an inspection of the bridge earlier this week revealed significant deterioration of the fiber-reinforced polymer lift span deck panels.  Repairs to the lift panels this weekend are reported to be only a temporary fix, and plans are being developed to replace the entire FRP deck.  Bridge sidewalks will remain open tomorrow, but ramps from the bridge to I-5 and I-84 will be closed.

Gas Prices Continue To Fall

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump are still on the decline in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two cents below yesterday's average, standing at two-27 a gallon.  That's also about eleven cents a gallon cheaper than a week ago.

Man Found Dead In Portland Was Battle Ground Resident

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a 19-year-old man who was found dead in a water feature at a Northwest Portland condo complex wasn't likely the victim of foul play.  The body of Zacharee Standford of Battle Ground was found outside the complex on Northwest Naito Parkway early yesterday morning.  The Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office is awaiting toxicology test results before determining cause of death.
 

Former Portland Mayor Headed To D.C.

(Portland, OR)  --  Former Portland Mayor Sam Adams is headed to the nation's capital.  Adams is leaving to become director of the U.S. Climate Initiatives at the World Resource Institute in Washington, D.C.  Adams has worked as executive director at the City Club of Portland since shortly after completing his term as mayor.  He says his new job will give him "a unique opportunity to help lead national efforts to combat climate change."

Man Accused Of Threatening To Blow Up Deli

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused of threatening to blow up a Portland deli "in the name of Allah" is behind bars.  Nineteen-year-old Abdalah Mohamed is accused of threatening the owner and employees at Ira's Deli in Northeast Portland on July 14th when he was told they couldn't sell him an individual cigarette.  Mohamed has pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree intimidation.
 

Injured Teen Freed From Car Following Crash

(Forest Grove, OR)  --  A teenager who was trapped in a vehicle following a crash near Forest Grove is in a hospital.  The single-vehicle wreck happened yesterday morning on Fernhill Road.  Forest Grove Fire & Rescue crews had to peel off the roof of the car in order to free the 15-year-old boy after the driver and a child were safely pulled from the vehicle.  The teen is being treated for multiple injuries.
 

Beaverton Man Arrested Following Police Chase

(Beaverton, OR)  --  A Beaverton man is in custody following a police chase that ended with a crash.  Sheriff's deputies say there was an arrest warrant out for 36-year-old Michael Peterson, who was pursued after he ran a red light at Northwest Barnes Road and Baltic Avenue last night.  Authorities say after Peterson crashed into landscape boulders in the front yard of a Southwest Woodward Way home, he fled on foot but was apprehended as he tried to jump a fence.  Deputies say they recovered two loaded guns and found a number of what are believed to be stolen items inside the car Peterson was driving.

Teen, Family Help Police Arrest Accused Predator

(St. Helens, OR)  --  Authorities say a 14-year-old girl and her family helped police apprehend a suspected Internet predator.  The suspect, 26-year-old MD Shahidul Islam of Beaverton was arrested Saturday after an officer arranged a meeting with him at a Walmart store in St. Helens.  Police say Islam had carried on an online relationship with the 14-year-old for several months and the teen's father became involved when the relationship turned sexual in nature.  Islam is facing several charges, including online sexual corruption of a child in the first degree and attempted rape in the third degree.

Woman Pulled From Burning Vehicle

(Sweet Home, OR)  --  A woman is being hospitalized after being rescued from her burning vehicle following a crash.  Authorities say the 31-year-old woman was able to escape serious injury after her car overturned early yesterday morning as she tried to elude police following a traffic stop in Sweet Home.  Officials say Holly Marie Craig reached speeds of 100 miles per hour during the pursuit along Highway 20.  Authorities say Craig was trapped as the car caught on fire, but she's expected to recover and will face a DUII charge.

Man Found Dead Outside Condo Building

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are investigating the death of a 19-year-old man.  Authorities say the man was found around 1:30 this morning in the water feature outside the Waterfront Pearl complex on Northwest Naito Parkway.  Police say the man was dead when he was pulled from the water.  An autopsy will be conducted

Wilsonville Home Invasion Investigated

(Wilsonville, WA)  --  Clackamas County authorities are investigating a report of a home invasion in Wilsonville.  A woman told deputies she was tied up by three masked men shortly before eight o'clock last night before they robbed her home on Southwest Grahams Ferry Road.  The woman, who wasn't injured, says she was able to call her husband, who wasn't home.  The suspects are described as having Hispanic accents.

Kitzhaber Says He's Unaware Of Any Investigation

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor John Kitzhaber says he's not aware of any law-enforcement agency conducting an investigation into his fiancee's consulting contracts.  "Willamette Week" has reported that the FBI has opened an investigation of Cylvia Hayes and her use of public resources in association with her contracts.  Kitzhaber and Hayes say they have not been in contact with any law-enforcement agency regarding such an investigation.  The governor says he and Hayes have retained attorneys to represent them as they prepare for the Oregon Government Ethics Commission's decision in March on whether to move forward with an investigation.
 

Kitzhaber Sworn In For 4th Time

(Salem, OR)  --  The fourth term in office is underway for Governor John Kitzhaber.  Kitzhaber, who was sworn in yesterday, is the first person to serve as Oregon's governor four times.  His latest term is starting under controversy, following revelations last year that his fiancee, Cylvia Hayes, had previously married an Ethiopian teen to help him gain legal residency in the U.S. and that she and an ex-boyfriend bought land in Washington state with the intention of growing marijuana.  Kitzhaber will have more Democratic allies in the Legislature than he did during his first three terms as governor.

Pedestrian Injured In NE Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  A pedestrian is being treated for head injuries after being hit by a car in Northeast Portland.  Police say the crash happened around 5:30 yesterday evening at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Northeast Morris Street.  Police said the driver of the car, who's in her 80s, left the scene but returned moments later to speak to officers.
 

Two Killed In Crash Near Canby

(Canby, OR)  --  Oregon state troopers say a two-vehicle crash involving a semi truck has left two people dead.  The wreck took place shortly before 10:30 yesterday morning on Highway 99E near Canby.  Police say a southbound sedan carrying two people crossed the center line and slammed into the oncoming semi.  The driver of the car died at the scene and the passenger died later at a hospital.

Woman Killed By Train In Cowlitz County

(Kelso, WA)  --  Cowlitz County sheriff's deputies are investigating after a woman was killed when an Amtrak train hit her car.  Authorities say the collision happened around five o'clock yesterday evening at a railroad crossing about four miles north of Kelso.  The woman's name hasn't been released.

Accused Scammer Jailed For Third Time

(Portland, OR)  --  A man who's accused of scamming people by offering to do repair work and fleeing with the money after doing little or nothing is behind bars again.  Police say 59-year-old Clinton Reany was taken into custody Friday after being arrested on December 31st and January 4th.  Authorities say Reany would offer to repair Portland residents' sidewalks and driveways, receive half the money up front, and leave before the job was done.  Investigators believe Reany has been committing fraudulent acts all over the U.S. for past four decades.

Fuel Prices Continue To Shrink

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area fuel prices are still heading down.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is about two-32 a gallon, nearly two cents below yesterday's average.  It's also about 13 cents a gallon cheaper than at this time last week.

Pedestrian Killed In Corvallis

(Corvallis, OR)  --  A pedestrian is dead, following a crash on Oregon 99W in Corvallis.  Police say a vehicle hit the pedestrian around 5:30 yesterday evening and landed upside down in an embankment.  The driver cooperated with the investigation, and the occupants of the car sustained minor injuries.  No names have been released.

Hammer Attack Still Under Investigation

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are still looking for suspects, after a man was beaten with a hammer during a robbery.  Authorities say the victim and another man left a 7-Eleven store at Northeast 15th Avenue and Killingsworth Street Friday when they were approached by a man with a hammer and another with a gun.  Police say one victim was beaten in the head several times with the hammer, but the other victim wasn't hurt.  Police tried to find the suspects with a K-9 unit, but were unsuccessful.
 

Police: Prescription Fraud Operation Busted

(Gresham, OR)  --  Washington County authorities believe they've stopped a prescription-fraud operation out of Gresham.  Deputies have arrested 20-year-old Sirenna Lynn Guice and say they've seized medicine that has a 15-thousand-dollar value on the black market.  Investigators followed up on a call Saturday morning from a Gresham Walgreens, who reported a potential case of prescription fraud involving promethazine with codeine.  Detectives believe Guice is responsible for prescription fraud at multiple pharmacy locations.
 

Fuel Price Drop Rolls On

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices in the Portland area are still getting cheaper.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular at about two-34 a gallon, which is more than 12 cents below yesterday's average.  It's also nearly 52 cents a gallon cheaper than at this time last month.

Swearing-in Held For New Portland Police Chief

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland has a new police chief with the new year.  A swearing-in ceremony was held yesterday for Larry O'Dea, who succeeds the retired Mike Reese.  O'Dea has previously said he wants to focus the police bureau more on community policing and establishing relationships between officers and businesses and neighborhoods.  Police Bureau officials say yesterday's ceremony also included promotions of two assistant chiefs, two commanders, five captains, eight sergeants, one detective, and three non-sworn Police Bureau members.

Man Found Unresponsive In Southeast Portland, Later Dies

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are investigating the death of a man who was found in a parking lot.  The man was found unresponsive yesterday morning outside an apartment complex in the 900 block of Southeast 162nd Avenue.  He died later at a hospital, and police are investigating the death as a homicide.  An autopsy will be conducted.
 

WA Couple Accused Of Running Prostitution Ring

(Redmond, WA)  --  Arrest warrants are out for a Lynnwood, Washington couple accused of running a sex-trafficking ring spanning from Washington to Florida.  Forty-eight-year-old David DeLay and 20-year-old Marysa Comer are facing felony charges that include second-degree promotion of prostitution.  Authorities say several victims have come forward and identified the suspects.  Court documents show one of the victims told police she'd been tricked into prostitution with promises of affection, money, and a part in a documentary.

Police: Incendiary Device Report Was False Alarm

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say a report of an incendiary device thrown into a house was a false alarm.  The police bureau had received a call last night about such a device being thrown into a Northeast Portland home with two kids inside.  Authorities say the children told other kids, who then called 911 to report the incident.  Investigators say there was no explosive device, but it appears the family dog chewed on a TV remote and damaged one of the lithium batteries, which began to smoke.

Power Outage Delaying MAX Trains

(Portland, OR)  --  A power outage in the Steel Bridge area is causing delays in MAX service.  The Pacific Power outage, which began around 9:30 last night, is making it necessary for TriMet crews to manually operate switches, leading to the delays.  TriMet officials say all MAX lines may experience delays this morning because of the outage.

Emergency Landing At PDX

(Portland, OR)  --  Port of Portland officials say a 757 cargo plane had to make an emergency landing at Portland International Airport.  KATU-TV reports the plane experienced engine problems after at least five ducks struck the plane as it took off just after 6:30 last night.  The plane turned around and landed on the south runway, which was closed for about an hour as crews effected cleanup.

Bill Would Require More Notice For Rent Hikes



(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that will be introduced in the upcoming session of the Washington State Legislature would require more notice to renters in the event of rent increases.  The measure, sponsored by Senator Jeanne Kohl-Welles of Seattle, would require landlords to give tenants a 90-day notice of plans to raise rent.  State law currently requires 30 days.  The Rental Housing Association of Washington says it will fight the bill.

Gasoline Prices Fall Again

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump are still falling in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is just under two-41 a gallon, more than two cents below yesterday's average.  It's also a dime a gallon cheaper than a week ago.

Death Investigation Conducted In Vancouver

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Vancouver police are investigating a man's death.  "The Oregonian" reports police were dispatched around six o'clock last night to the 24-hundred block of Rossiter Lane after a death involving a vehicle was reported.  The man was found dead at the scene.  His name hasn't been made public.
 

Providence Health Services Nixes Sugary Drinks

(Portland, OR)  --  Providence Health Services will no longer make sugary drinks available at any of its medical facilities in Oregon.  That includes cafeterias, gift shops, and vending machines.  Providence officials say they're trying to lead by example by cutting sugary drinks, which have been linked to medical problems such as obesity and diabetes.  Providence says it will phase out sugary beverages and replace them with healthier alternatives over the next three months.

Hillsboro Man Killed In Crash

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Washington County sheriff's deputies are investigating, following a crash that killed a Hillsboro man.  Authorities say 68-year-old John Kern was trying to pass in a no-passing zone on Bald Peak Road yesterday morning when he clipped the vehicle as he re-entered the travel lane.  Deputies say Kern then lost control and left the roadway, and his vehicle went airborne after hitting a dirt embankment.  No one else was injured.

Police ID Man Found Dead Along I-405



(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say the death of a man whose body was found along I-405 doesn't appear to be the result of foul play.  The man has been identified as 54-year-old Timothy Scott Stoutt, who was a transient.  The Oregon State Medical Examiner is awaiting toxicology test results.  Stoutt's body was found Saturday night along the I-405 southbound on-ramp from Southwest Broadway.
 

Sinkhole Results From Sewer-main Break In Kelso

(Kelso, WA)  --  Kelso city officials say it could take weeks to fix a deep sinkhole that developed following a sewer-main break.  The city says the sinkhole in the 100 block of Mill Street is now about 13 feet deep.  Public Works Superintendent Randy Johnson told KOIN-TV that crews are using a bypass system to divert the sewer away from the damaged line.  A panel of sheet steel is currently covering the sinkhole.

Search Conducted For Missing 82-year-old Man

(Portland, OR)  --  An 82-year-old man who's been missing since Christmas Eve is being sought by Portland police.  Authorities say Jerry Kent Boyer was reported missing after friends checked his Northeast Portland home and found newspapers on the porch and his dogs loose in the back yard.  Boyer is described as white, five-feet-four, 154 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes, and wears glasses.  Anyone with information on his location is asked to call Portland police.
 

Gas Prices Down Again

(Portland, OR)  --  Gas prices in the Portland area have yet to bottom out.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular at two-43 a gallon, down more than two cents from yesterday's average.  It's also nearly a dime a gallon cheaper than a week ago.

Hillsboro One-way Streets To Become Two-way

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  One-way streets in downtown Hillsboro will soon become two-way.  The Hillsboro City Council has voted to opt for two-way travel, with officials saying it will encourage more shoppers onto downtown streets.  Hillsboro Mayor Jerry Willey broke a three-to-three tie to approve the measure.  Not everyone is on board with the change, as a lawsuit to block the action is pending.

Officials: Aloha Man Killed By Deputies Shot Twice

(Aloha, OR)  --  The sheriff's deputies involved in the deadly shooting of an Aloha man last week remain on paid administrative leave.  The Washington County Sheriff's Office hasn't yet identified the deputies who killed 47-year-old Lewis Lee Lembke while responding last week to a report of a domestic assault.  The state medical examiner's office says Lembke was shot twice.  Authorities say Lembke pointed a semi-automatic handgun at deputies before he was shot.

Gas Prices Still Heading Down

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump in the Portland area keep dropping.  Triple-A reports the average for regular fell about a penny-and-a-half overnight, to just over two-45 a gallon.  That's more than a dime a gallon cheaper than a week ago.

One Dead Following Crash

(Cornelius, OR)  --  One person is dead, following a head-on collision near Cornelius.  Authorities say 22-year-old Maria Martinez of Hillsboro died in the wreck, which happened around 10:30 yesterday morning in the area of Southwest Susbauer Road and Southwest Long Road.  Police say Adam Buchalski [[ buh-SHALL-skee ]] of Cornelius was driving north in the southbound lane as he tried to pass another vehicle in a no-passing zone.  Buchalski and his passenger suffered injuries that aren't considered life-threatening.

Lake Oswego Basketball Coach Fired

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  School district officials say longtime Lake Oswego High School basketball coach Mark Shoff has been fired.  Officials say Shoff was relieved of his duties following an investigation into "concerns" raised at last week's Les Schwab Invitational Tournament.  No details of those concerns have been released.  The school district says Lake Oswego will hire an interim coach for the remainder of this season and will conduct a search for a permanent head coach in the spring.

Body Found On Highway On-ramp

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are investigating the death of a man whose body was found along a highway on-ramp.  Officials say the body was discovered around ten o'clock Saturday night on the I-405 on-ramp from South Broadway.  The on-ramp was closed for several hours as police investigated at the scene.  The man's name hasn't been released.

Police Prevent Man From Jumping Off Bridge

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police say they've arrested a hit-and-run suspect who tried to jump off the Morrison Bridge.  Authorities say 24-year-old Robert Charles Harvey had crashed into several vehicles and hit a pedestrian in the area of Southwest 3rd Avenue and Oak Street around one a.m. yesterday.  Police say Harvey then got out of his vehicle and ran toward the bridge after taking off most of his clothes.  Officers were able to grab Harvey as he dangled off the bridge, and held onto him until they received assistance in pulling him back over the rail.  No one was seriously hurt.

Naked Man Arrested Following Home Burglary

(Keizer, OR)  --  A man is facing charges after police found him naked following a home burglary in Keiser.  Authorities are accusing Guillermo Brambila Lopez of drinking the homeowner's alcohol, using the hot tub, then taking a shower in the master bedroom before he was caught hiding inside another home in the neighborhood.  Police say Lopez was found in the second house shortly before five a.m. yesterday.  Investigators say Lopez had broken into and burglarized the first home, which was located on the same block of Lakefair Place North.

Woman In Wheelchair Killed By Car

(Sheridan, OR)  --  Police are investigating a crash that killed a woman in a wheelchair in Yamhill County.  Oregon State Police say the wreck took place yesterday morning on Highway 18B in Sheridan, leaving 66-year-old Connie Nickeson dead.  Troopers say the 81-year-old driver left the scene of the accident, but was later tracked down and cooperated with the investigation.  Authorities say it appears impairment was not a factor in the crash.

Man Shot By Washington County Deputy Sheriff

(Aloha, OR)  --  Authorities are investigating a shooting involving a Washington County deputy sheriff.  Officials say an armed man was shot early this morning near the intersection of Southwest 209th Avenue and Eggert Way in Aloha.  KOIN-TV reports the man's name hasn't been released and there's no word on his condition.  The Washington County Major Crimes Team is investigating.
 

Two Killed In Linn County Crash

(Linn County, OR)  --  Two people are dead and a seven-year-old boy is injured, following a head-on crash in Linn County.  Oregon State Police say a westbound Camaro crossed the center line of Highway 34 last night and slammed into an eastbound Impala.  The drivers of both vehicles died.  The boy is being treated for serious injuries at a Portland hospital.

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