Portland's Camping Ban Resumes Saturday

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The City of Portland will resume enforcement of its camping ban this weekend. It was paused in February due to a lack of shelter space. More than a thousand additional shelter beds have been announced this year. Mayor Keith Wilson set a goal of adding 15-hundred beds by December. Campers will be directed to services and shelter beds, so there is not expected to be a sharp increase in the number of citations.

TriMet Bus Assault

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Three men are charged with attempted murder for an assault on a man in the doorway of a TriMet bus. On October 15th, the three suspects were trying to board a bus near Southeast Stark and 142nd Avenue. When there was a delay getting on board, a 50-year-old man tried to intervene, and the suspects attacked him. Witnesses say they stomped on his face, kicked, slapped and punched the victim while he was on the ground. He was hospitalized with a brain bleed, broken eye socket and broken nose. The three men are charged with trying to kill the man, assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

Wells Fargo Announces Over 440 Oregon Layoffs

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Wells Fargo is laying off more than 440 employees in Oregon. 147 people are being terminated from the company's facility in Salem, 263 people are being cut from the Wells Fargo operation in Hillsboro, and 34 people are being let go at the downtown Portland office. The employees were notified on Tuesday and the cuts will take effect December 26th. Employees will get severance, career assistance, and other services.

Wyden Questions Ballroom Donations

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

 (Washington, D.C.) -- Oregon Senator Ron Wyden is joining other Senators in asking for details about donations to fund President Trump's 300-million-dollar White House ballroom construction project. Donors include Amazon, Meta, and Apple. Last month, YouTube settled a lawsuit by the Trump Administration by making a 22-million-dollar payment to the ballroom project. The senators want to know if the donations are buying favors for their support.

Leaf Day Expands In Portland

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland's leaf collection service starts this Saturday. Thirty-thousand new addresses have been added. The Portland Bureau of Transportation sent brochures to nearly 100-thousand businesses and residences to explain how the program works. Residents need to check the Leaf Day website to find out what day their street will be cleared. Leaves should be raked into the street the day before, leaving one foot at the curb for rain runoff. Residents in Northwest Portland, Goose Hollow or Sullivan's Gulch need to keep vehicles off the street to avoid being towed.

Sunshine Division Increases Access

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The end of SNAP benefits on Saturday has the Portland Sunshine Division increasing its service. Home delivery will increase from 450 to 650 food boxes a week. Their food pantry will expand its hours starting November 8th. Tuesday through Saturday they will be open from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. They're also increasing Thanksgiving and December holiday meal deliveries.

Police Seek Person Seen Near Fire

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police are asking a person who was in the area of a fire that destroyed a city councilor's car to come forward. Last Sunday, fire destroyed Councilor Candance Avalos' car, other vehicles and damaged a building. The fire started near a shed and police say it wasn't directed at Avalos. A person was seen on surveillance video walking in the area before the fire and police want to ask the person if they saw or heard anything. At this time, the person isn't a suspect.

Kotek Issues Climate Protection Executive Order

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek wants to speed up development of climate resilience strategies. She issued an executive order last week that she says will coordinate state agencies and communities to protect from climate threats, like catastrophic wildfires and flooding. The order also directs agencies to streamline programs to help farmers, fishers and foresters to adopt climate-friendly practices, including accelerating permits for land restoration projects.

Kotek Declares Food Emergency

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has directed five million dollars to the state's food bank network because of SNAP funding that's expected to end on Saturday. Kotek is currently on a trade mission in Japan. Republican State Senator and candidate for Governor Christine Drazan criticized Kotek for not taking action sooner.

Troops Briefly Sent To Portland

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon National Guard troops were briefly sent to Portland earlier this month. A trial is underway in federal court to determine whether troops could be deployed. Judge Karin Immergut issued an order on October 4th stopping troops from being deployed. On October 5th, nine soldiers worked one shift at the ICE building. That's the same day Immergut issued a ruling banning all troop deployments. She said they'll discuss later whether the use of troops was contempt of court. The trial could last through Friday.

Oregon Settles With Mortgage Company

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon has reached a settlement with a California-based mortgage company that was accused of unlicensed lending and other state violations. Oregon's Division of Financial Regulation joined Hawaii, Idaho and Texas on the case against E. Mortgage Capital. It imposes fines totaling 669-thousand dollars. Oregon regulators say the company's remote work-from-home plan lacked adequate oversight of Mortgage Loan Originators, allowing unlicensed staff to earn commissions. The states also say E. Mortgage failed to cooperate or respond to requests for information.

Cascadia Innovation

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Despite trade tension between President Trump and Canada, Oregon and Washington state are taking steps to improve their partnerships with British Columbia. Washington and British Columbia having been working together since 2016 and a new agreement adds Oregon to effort. The goal of the Cascadia Innovation Corridor is to collaborate through innovation, housing affordability, sustainability, economic development and high-speed rail.

Voters Urged To Mail Ballots Early

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- November's special election is next Tuesday, and if you haven't mailed your ballot the Oregon Secretary of State says you need to get it into a mailbox today. Changes at the U.S. Postal Service may cause delays in ballots being postmarked by November 4th. You can ask for a manual postmark. You can also put your ballot in an Official Ballot Drop Site before 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

Threat Cancels Wilsonville High Classes

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Wilsonville, OR) -- New details are coming to light regarding a threat written on the boys' bathroom wall at Wilsonville High School that forced the school's closure Wednesday. The threat was found Tuesday night. Police say there was no evidence to suggest the threat was credible. School was cancelled out of an abundance of caution. The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office says the student who was allegedly responsible was located and charged with Disorderly Conduct and booked into the Juvenile Detention Center.

OHSU Could Face Strike

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon Health Sciences University Hospital could face a strike. Nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and certified nurse midwives have voted to strike, if agreement isn't reached on a contract. The Oregon Nurses Association represents 700 workers at OHSU. The main issues are pay and workload. The union would have to give ten days' notice before striking.

ODOT Portland-area Highway Maintenance

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Drivers on Portland area freeways should expect delays today because of ODOT maintenance projects. Crews will be removing graffiti and fixing potholes. Rolling slowdowns and lane closures will be used to complete the work. Projects are planned on I-5, I-405, I-205, I-84, and Highway 217.

Portland Woman Charged In Assault On Federal Officers

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland woman faces federal charges after ICE officers claimed she assaulted them while they were arresting a suspect over the weekend. 40-year-old Temika Gardner is accused of punching officers and pulling off their face mask. Gardner was charged with assaulting a federal officer and was released until her next court proceeding.

Oregon Joins Lawsuit Over SNAP Funding

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is joining other states in a lawsuit to force the federal government to fund SNAP federal food benefits. The USDA says funding will run out on November 1st, but the lawsuit argues Congress created a contingency fund with billions of dollars for this specific purpose. The USDA has also funded other emergency programs during the shutdown. 214-thousand children in Oregon and 130-thousand older adults get help from SNAP buying food every month.

Florida Fugitive Arrested

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Eugene, OR) -- Eugene Police arrested a wanted fugitive from Florida. 47-year-old Steven Whitney was arrested Thursday with the help of SWAT. Police searched his residence and found three guns, about 15 pounds of fresh marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, fake IDs and drug packaging material. In addition to being a fugitive from justice in Florida, detectives believe Whitney is responsible for an armed robbery at a Eugene bar where staff say he tried to get inside with two underage girls.

Oregon Governor Urge SNAP Funding

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and other state leaders have sent a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins urging she use contingency funds to keep federal food benefits going. SNAP helps 757-thousand Oregonians buy food every month. That includes 210-thousand children and 130-thousand older adults. Kotek says the loss of SNAP funding will especially hurt grocery stores in rural parts of Oregon that depend on it to stay in business.

Alaska Airlines Adds Flights At PDX

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Alaska Airlines is adding routes and flights. Starting next spring the airline will offer direct flights from Portland to Baltimore, Philadelphia, St. Louis and Idaho Falls. Alaska says it's also added a second flight from PDX to Newark and service to Kauai is now year-round. Alaska is also adding flights from San Diego and Santa Rosa-Sonoma, in California.

Money Business Owner Pleads Guilty To Money Laundering

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The owner of a money service business with several branches in Oregon and Washington has pleaded guilty to money laundering charges. Brenda Barrera Orantes, from Guatemala and illegally in the U.S., ran a money service business called La Popular. She took drug money and charged ten-percent to move it through branch offices of the business. A search by police seized 316-thousand-dollars in cash. Barrera Orantes will be sentenced in January.

Fatal Apartment Parking Lot Shooting

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- A man was fatally shot in a Vancouver parking lot Sunday morning. Clark County Sheriff's deputies responded to the apartments located on Northeast 19th Avenue near 94th Street after getting several reports of gunfire. Witnesses saw two Black men wearing masks going back and forth between the car that the victim was in and a red Lexus. The suspects fled in the Lexus and were last seen on I-5 in Portland. Deputies found the victim deceased in a car. Detectives are looking for a dark red Lexus ES 350 with a shattered rear window, rear end damage and a broken taillight.

Portland Police Arrest Three Outside ICE Building

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Three people were arrested outside of the ICE building in South Portland Saturday night. Police say 19-year-old Kevin Beyer and 22-year-old Benjamin Beyer, both from New Jersey, were arrested for blocking the street in front of the building. Police say 46-year-old Gracielle Sobieralski, of Portland, was arrested for pushing a person. Officers also warned people at a make-shift camp to move it off the sidewalk. Police have done this several times during the demonstrations. Demonstrators were also warned they couldn't have open containers of alcohol.

Pressure Increases On Kotek To Sign Transportation Bill

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Pressure is increasing on Governor Tina Kotek to sign the transportation funding bill passed in a special session of the legislature. Two democratic state senators, Janeen Sollman and Jeff Golden, are urging the Governor to sign the bill out of concern the delay will impact the public's trust. The Governor has 30 business days after the session to sign the bill. Republicans want to send it to voters but can't start collecting the 78-thousand signatures needed until the Governor signs the bill. If they collect the signatures, it would stop the bill from taking effect until the November 2026 General election.

Female Jogger Assaulted

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- A woman jogging Sunday morning in Vancouver was sexually assaulted by a man on a bike. The woman was on Southeast 99th Avenue near 10th Street when the suspect rode up from behind, grabbed the woman in a sexual manner and pushed her to the ground. They struggled on the ground and the woman fought off the man. He rode away. He's described as a white male in his late teens or early 20s, about five-feet seven-inches tall wearing black jeans and a gray hoodie.

Oregon E. Coli Case

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- One person from Oregon contracted E. coli eating unpasteurized cheese from Twin Sisters Creamery Farmhouse in Washington state. The Oregon Health Authority tested cheese that was uneaten and it tested positive for the same strain of E. coli. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also tested cheese products from the company in grocery stores and found the same strain. Two people in Washington also contracted E. coli.

Gov. Kotek Faces November 12 Deadline On $4B Oregon Transportation Bill

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Governor Tina Kotek has until November 12th to decide on a new four-billion-dollar transportation package passed by Senate Democrats. The bill would raise gas taxes, vehicle registration fees, and the payroll tax, sparking pushback from Republican lawmakers who want voters to have a say. Republicans can only start collecting signatures for a ballot measure once the governor signs the bill.

Ninth Circuit Pauses Portland Troops

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(San Francisco, CA) -- The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has paused the deployment of National Guard troops in Portland until it decides whether to rehear the case. The administrative stay was issued Friday. A three-judge panel previously approved the use of troops. The pause remains in place until tomorrow when the Court of Appeals will decide whether an 11-judge court should hear the case.

Portland Man Critically Injured In Pedestrian Crash Early Sunday

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland man is seriously hurt after a pedestrian crash early Sunday. Police say it happened just after 4 a.m. at Northeast Lombard and 13th Avenue. The victim was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, while the driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating. Investigators from the Portland Police Traffic Division Major Crash Team are working on the case.

Fire At City Councilor's Home Possibly Arson

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland city councilor woke up to see her house on fire on Sunday. Candace Avalos says the incident is under investigation, including as a possible arson. Neighbors of the councilor told KATU that it's disorienting to see a crime like the fire. No arrests have been made as of Sunday night. Avalos says she's thankful for the quick responds from fire crews.

Gresham Police Investigate Another Shooting At Strip Club Parking Lot

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- Gresham Police are investigating another shooting at a Rockwood strip club parking lot early Saturday morning. Officers say one person was injured and taken to a hospital in a private vehicle, and the victim is expected to survive. Detectives found evidence of gunfire, but the suspect fled before police arrived. This marks the second shooting at the same club this month, after an incident on October 13th that damaged a vehicle and the business but caused no injuries.

Police Investigating Fatal Shooting In SE Portland

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are investigating a shooting that left one dead in the southeast part of Portland on Saturday. Officers responded to the scene on near southeast 142nd Avenue and southeast Division Street around 5:30 p.m. and found one man injured. After being taken to the hospital the man died from his injuries. Anyone with information should contact Portland Police.

Three Arrested Near ICE Facility

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland Police Department says three people were arrested near an ICE facility Saturday night. Kevin and Benjamin Beyer were both charged with disorderly conduct after they allegedly walked into the lanes of traffic several times. Gracielle Sobieralski was also arrested for alleged harassment after pushing another person. 58 people have been arrested near the ICE facility since the night protests began.

Teenager Facing Charges After Shooting Gun Near School

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A 16-year-old boy is facing charges after a shooting left one man injured. Portland police responded to reports of a shooting by southeast 174th Avenue and Southeast Haig Street and found a 19-year-old man with injuries. The next day, the suspect was arrested and authorities seized his handgun. The shooting is still under investigation.

Drazan Appointed To Oregon Senate

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Canby State Representative Christine Drazan will fill the vacant District 26 State Senate Seat. On Thursday, she was voted into the office by Clackamas, Multnomah, Hood River and Wasco County Commissioners. Drazan replaces former Senator Daniel Bonham, of The Dalles, who resigned earlier this month. He has been tapped by the Trump Administration to serve in the Department of Labor under former Oregon Congresswoman and current Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. Drazan will serve out Bonham's Senate term, which runs through January of 2027.

Coast Guard Storm Prep

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Coast Guard is warning mariners about the atmospheric river that will hit the Pacific Northwest this week bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and high seas. The Coast Guard urges coastal communities to stay alert to changing conditions. Mariners should check conditions, carry a working VHF radio and wear a life jacket if headed out on the water. The Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley is expected to see more than three inches of rain over 72 hours.

Bird Flu Warning

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Cases of bird flu have been confirmed in five mixed-species backyard flocks in Deschutes, Malheur and Wallowa counties. All of the farms are now under quarantine, and the birds have been euthanized. None of the animals entered the food supply chain. Oregon's Department of Agriculture says the recent detections are a reminder that fall migration brings an increased risk of bird flu and flock owners should take extra precautions to reduce the spread of the disease, including keeping domestic poultry away from wild birds.

Oregon Youth Authority Lawsuit

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Six more people are suing the Oregon Youth Authority for sexual abuse they say they suffered while at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn. Dr. Edward Gary Edwards is also named in the suit. It's the latest in a growing list of lawsuits against the OYA and Edwards following allegations of abuse, negligence and a four decades-long cover up. The six men were all under 18 when they say the abuse occurred amid what they say was a culture of silence. Their attorneys say many of the plaintiffs didn't know their abuse was part of a larger pattern until media reports earlier this year exposed the cover up.

Kotek Trade Mission

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is leading a trade mission to South Korea and Japan. Kotek says the goal is to promote the state's economic strengths, deepen cultural ties, and expand opportunities for trade. She'll be travelling with First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, representatives from Business Oregon, the Port of Portland, the Oregon Department of Agriculture, and a dozen small businesses. They return October 30th.

Online Retail Settlement

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is part of a multistate settlement with a company that owns several popular fashion brands. TFG Holding owns brands including Just Fab, ShoeDazzle, and FabKids. The company was accused of tricking shoppers into costly memberships that were difficult to cancel. Under the settlement, TFG Holdings will pay one-million-dollars. Dozens of Oregon consumers will get an average of two-thousand-dollars each.

State Police Seek Poachers

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hermiston, OR) -- Oregon State Police need the public's help tracking down the poacher responsible for illegally killing a 6-by-6 bull elk on private property near Hermiston. The elk was killed between September fourth and fifth in the Columbia Basin Unit, adjacent to the Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge. Anyone with information in the case is asked to call OSP's Turn in Poachers TIP line.

Atmospheric River To Hit PNW

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- An atmospheric river will hit the Pacific Northwest tomorrow. The National Weather Service is forecasting up to four inches of rain at the Coast and as much as three-and-a-half inches of rain in the Cascades. Winds at the coast could gust between 30 and 60 miles an hour. Inland, winds could gust 20 to 50 miles an hour. With leaves on trees, that could lead to power outages. Leaves in the streets could clog storm drains and cause localized street flooding.

SNAP Benefits Ending

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Local leaders are calling on President Trump to restore funding for food stamps. The Trump administration announced earlier this week that SNAP benefits will end next month due to the ongoing federal shutdown. A group of elected leaders and advocates in the Portland area want the President to authorize the release of contingency funds to keep SNAP benefits flowing to millions of Americans, including 136-thousand people in Multnomah County. The group says the money is available and can be used at any time to fund the program through November.

Portland Protester Arrested

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Another protester faces federal charges for vandalism to the ICE building in South Portland. 20-year-old Alistair Sidener is accused of damaging cameras on the building on June 12th. He made his first court appearance last Friday. On Tuesday, a 56-year-old woman made her first appearance in federal court on a charge of assaulting a federal officer. Lisa Miyamoto is accused of hitting an agent Sunday outside the ICE building with a wooden tambourine.

National Guard Hearing

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Trump Administration continues to push the courts to allow the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland. Judge Karin Immergut, the federal judge who imposed two temporary restraining orders blocking the deployment, will hold a hearing Friday morning on whether to dissolve the second TRO. The first was overturned by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which is now considering their own new hearing by a larger 11-judge panel.

Oregon Zoo License Plate Coming

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon Zoo fans can show their support with a new license plate that'll be available starting next month. Artist Jeremy Nichols designed the plate that features an elephant and a rose. The plates cost 40 dollars extra. 35 dollars from the fee will go to the Oregon Zoo Foundation to support conservation education, species recovery and animal wellbeing. Oregon has several specialty license plates, including Oregon Ducks, OSU Beavers, Trail Blazers, Salmon, and Wine Country.

New Charges Filed Against Shooting Suspect

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- New charges for a suspect in a Salem shooting earlier this week. Police initially responded to reports of gunfire early Monday morning, in the area of Commercial Street and Browning Avenue. 19-year-old Christopher Stone and 22-year-old Alexander Salgado-Maya were arrested that morning on several charges, including resisting arrest. The investigation matched the gun recovered at the scene with casings recovered from a nearby building damaged by gunshots. Salgado-Maya is now also accused of unlawful use of a weapon and criminal mischief.

OHSU Applies for Rural Health Funds

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon Health Sciences University is applying for the Rural Health Transformation Program. President Trump's Big, Beautiful Bill allocated 50-billion-dollars to improve rural health care. The money will be distributed over the next five years. President Trump has denied some funding to sanctuary states and there are concerns that might happen with rural health care funding.

Planned I-5 Closure To Cause Delays

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- ODOT is planning overnight closures of I-5 on four nights in November that will cause major delays. Crews will be installing new RealTime signs over the freeway. On November 4th, 6th, 10th, and 13th, I-5 will be closed in both directions between the Ross Island Bridge and Terwilliger Boulevard from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. I-205 will be the detour for vehicles going north and south of Portland, but local traffic will need to use secondary roads and that will cause significant delays.

Oregon Investment Strategy

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner is calling on the state to adjust its investment strategy. In a letter to the Oregon Investment Council and Beneficiary Advisory Committee, she asked that they use the upcoming asset allocation review to take a new look at the way Public Employee Retirement Service funds are invested. Steiner supports reducing the Treasury's investment in private equity to 20 percent, given rapid changes in the national and global economies.

Fatal UTV Crash

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Lane County, OR) -- One person was killed when a UTV crashed in Lane County this week. Sheriff's deputies say 49-year-old Walter Rogers was driving on a BLM road near Triangle Lake when he rolled the UTV. His passenger died at the scene. Investigators say the passenger may have been wearing a seatbelt but not a helmet. Rogers showed signs of impairment. He was arrested for DUI and may face additional charges.

Oregon Asks Businesses To Help Furloughed Employees

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is asking companies it regulates to give furloughed employees help. There are 30-thousand federal employees in Oregon and most of them haven't gotten paid for three weeks. They have mortgages, insurance payments, and other payments to make. Anyone who can't make a payment should call the institution before missing a payment, because they can often make arrangements to avoid problems.

Klamath River Salmon Return Faster Than Expected

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Klamath Falls, OR) -- After the removal of four dams in the Klamath River, salmon are returning much faster than biologists expected. Two dams remain on the river and salmon have passed fish ladders at the Keno and Link River dams. They've reached the Sprague River. Biologists say the salmon are advancing faster than their tracking program was set to record. They're having to expand the cameras and other monitors on an almost daily basis.

Burnside Bridge Construction Delays

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Construction of a new Burnside Bridge is being delayed. Multnomah County announced that rising costs for labor and materials, along with uncertainty about federal funds are forcing it pause the project. County says the project, which was set to start construction in 2028 is projected to cost up to one-point-eight-billion-dollars. It says design work will continue, so they're ready when they can move forward.

Federal Officers Arrest Protester

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Federal officers arrested a 32-year-old Portland woman outside of the ICE office in South Portland. Elizabeth Leslie allegedly lunged forward and struck an officer in the chest as they were clearing a path for vehicles leaving the facility on Saturday. Around three-dozen people have been charged for federal crimes near the ICE facility on the South Waterfront, while Portland Police have arrested 53 people in that timeframe.

Police Need Surveillance Video For Homicide Investigation

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police are again asking residents in Northwest Portland in the area where a woman was fatally shot in her car to upload surveillance video. So far, only one video has been uploaded. Anyone with a doorbell camera or other surveillance cameras can upload video from October 11th between 5:50 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. The area is from Northwest 19th Avenue to 24th and Glisan to Pettygrove. Police don't think it was a random shooting and that the suspect knew Krystal Pendergraph.

Gas Prices Tumble

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Gas prices in Oregon fell seven cents a gallon over the last week to four dollars and one cent. Triple-A reports the national average declined three cents to three dollars and five cents. Several factors are causing the price of gas to decline. Crude oil is selling for under 60 dollars a barrel, there's weak demand for gas and the winter blend of fuel costs less for refineries to produce.

Suspect Barricaded In Truck Arrested

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Multnomah County Sheriff's deputies forced a barricaded man out of a stolen pickup. The suspect was in the truck and parked at a closed gas station Sunday night. Jacob Mack refused to cooperate and get out of the truck. Deputies used a less-lethal projectile to break the window and Mack was taken into custody. He faces charges for being in a stolen vehicle, theft, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Seven Arrested In Burglary Operation

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Welches, OR) -- A tip from an out-of-state law enforcement agency led to the arrests of seven people in a burglary operation. The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office says the group was living in a vacation home in the Mount Hood community of Welches. They allegedly stole 200-thousand-dollars from a home in Clackamas County. The group apparently ran similar operations in other states. Detectives believe there may be more victims.

Kotek Critical Of Ninth Circuit Court Opinion

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Governor Tina Kotek wants the full Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to review the decision by a three-judge panel that allows the National Guard to be deployed in Portland. Kotek says Oregon remains united in the fight against unwanted, unneeded military intervention in the state. Kotek says the dissenting judge was clear in her opinion that the decision would erode core constitutional principles and should be overturned.

Oregon Attorney General Troop Reaction

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon's Attorney General says the Court of Appeals ruling allowing National Guard troops to be deployed in Portland puts America on a dangerous path. Attorney General Dan Rayfield says, if the ruling is allowed to stand, it would give the president unilateral power to put Oregon soldiers on the streets with almost no justification. Rayfield is urging the full Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to review the case and vacate the majority's order before troops can be deployed.

140 Sex Abuse Charges Against Wood Village Man

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Wood Village, OR) -- A man from Wood Village has been arrested and charged with 140 counts of sex abuse. Detectives believe there may be more victims. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children sent a tip to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force about child sexual abuse material that was being distributed online from a home in Wood Village. Police searched the home and arrested 56-year-old Losif Blashishen. Charges include first-degree sexual abuse and rape.

Second Murder Suspect Arrested

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- The second of three suspects in the murder of 13-year-old Liam Spahnle-Bailey in Gresham has been arrested. U.S. Marshals located Xavier Hirsch in Beaverton where he was taken into custody. Anthony Hunter Jr. was arrested last month. Terrell Coy remains at large. A five-thousand-dollar reward is posted for his arrest. Spahnle-Bailey was asleep in his father's apartment when a bullet went through the wall and killed him.

Missing Mushroom Picker

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oakridge, OR) -- The search continues for a mushroom picker from Oakridge who's been missing since last week. 76-year-old Jean Fritz Pierre Louis was reported missing October 16th, when his car was found on a forest service road off Salmon Creek Road. Search and Rescue teams on horseback, with K-9s and using drones have all, so far, been unsuccessful in their efforts.

Text Message Scam Warning

Posted About Six Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is warning about text message scams. These are the messages where someone you don't know asks things like, "Hello," "Can I speak with you?" and "Are you still at work?" If you reply, the scammer knows they have an active phone and will try to gain your trust. Their ultimate goal is to get your personal or financial information. If you don't know the sender, delete the text message.

DHS Helicopter Noise Complaints

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Department of Homeland Security is using a helicopter to monitor the demonstrations around the ICE building in South Portland and residents in the area are complaining. More than 40 noise complaints have been filed with the Port of Portland and that's four times the normal number of calls. Oregon Representative Suzanne Bonamici, Representative Maxine Dexter and Oregon's two Senators have sent a letter to DHS asking for answers about why and what can be done to reduce the use of the helicopter.

Fatal Corvallis Crash

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Corvallis, OR) -- A pedestrian was killed in a crash Friday evening in Corvallis. Police say a 17-year-old female driver hit two people in a crosswalk. A 20-year-old man died at the scene and a 20-year-old female suffered serious injuries and was hospitalized. The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation, which is ongoing.

Fatal Shooting Investigation

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A man was killed in a shooting Saturday night in the Sellwood neighborhood. Police responded to a shooting at Southeast 17th and Harold Street where they found a man down on the sidewalk. He died at the scene. No arrests were made and police have not released information about a suspect.

Convenience Store Murder Suicide

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hazel Dell, WA) -- An employee of a 7-11 store in Hazel Dell was fatally shot and then the suspect killed himself. Clark County Sheriff's deputies responded to the store Friday afternoon. They found two men with gunshot wounds. They were transported to a hospital where they both died. Investigators say the suspect had no apparent connection with the victim. Detectives are working to learn what led to the shooting.

Vancouver No Kings Crash

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- There was a crash on Saturday near the No Kings demonstration in Vancouver. Police say a vehicle on Mill Plain Boulevard rear-ended another vehicle pushing it onto the sidewalk. A pedestrian trying to get out of the way fell and suffered minor injuries. No protesters were hit and no one was hospitalized. The driver that caused the crash had reportedly been driving recklessly and was arrested on suspicion of DUI and Reckless Driving.

No Kings Demonstration

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Tens of thousands of people took part in the No Kings demonstration in Portland on Saturday. Waterfront Park was over-filled, causing Southwest Naito Parkway to close. The group marched for three hours in downtown Portland crossing the Hawthorne and Morrison bridges. No arrests were made. A protest continued Saturday night outside of the ICE building in South Portland. Police arrested three people. The charges included assault, harassment, and bias crime. The FBI didn't report any arrests by federal officers.

Wilson Newsweek Editorial

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Newsweek is running an editorial from Portland Mayor Keith Wilson. He says his visit inside of the ICE building found overflowing dumpsters, loose body armor and crowd control munitions and a broken HVAC system that raised temperatures and tempers in the building. He says the words coming from the Trump Administration are deeply irresponsible, including the threat of the Insurrection Act, a call to use "Full Force" in the city, and the suggestion that Portland could be a training ground for the military. Wilson says he has deep concern for the officers working in the building far from home, overworked, exhausted, and not being paid.

Kaiser Return To Work

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The five-day strike against Kaiser Permanente Northwest is over. Nurses and other health care workers returned to hospitals and medical facilities on Sunday. Contract negotiations resume on Wednesday. Kaiser says the main issue is pay. They're offering a 21-and-a-half percent increase over four years.

Deputy Cleared In Shooting

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office has determined a deputy was justified in shooting an armed suspect last June. Portland Police responded to a call about an armed man near Northeast 116th and Sandy Boulevard who was firing shots. An off-duty Multnomah County deputy was in the area and stopped to help officers. When Luis Cervantes-Santiago pointed a gun at officers the deputy fired. Cervantes-Santiago survived his injury and was charged with attempted murder, unlawful use of a weapon and recklessly endangering.

PBOT Adopt A Drain

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Falling leaves are clogging drains when it rains and the Portland Bureau of Transportation is asking you to adopt-a-drain. Portland has more than 58-thousand storm drains and crews can't clear all of them. PBOT is asking you to use a rake, shovel or broom -- not your hands -- to clear drains. Wear gloves and watch for sharp objects, like a needle, that might be in the debris you put in your recycling bin.

Federal Unemployment Claims Rise

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Unemployment applications from furloughed and laid off federal employees are increasing in Oregon. Federal workers make up less than two percent of Oregon's workforce, so it's not expected to cause problems for the Employment Department. Initial unemployment claims are up 25 percent over the last two weeks. The Employment Department says that's partially due to normal seasonal increases that happen between October and February, plus the federal government shutdown.

SNAP Fraud Sentencing

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A man who was part of a ring to steal SNAP debit card information has been sentenced to federal prison. Giovanni Spirea, who's Italian and was illegally in the U.S., placed credit card skimming devices in stores and stole information from SNAP debit cards. He and other people in the operation used the data to buy more than 120-thousand pounds of goods in Oregon and Washington. They moved it to California in private vehicles and sold it for nearly two-and-a-half-million-dollars. Spirea was sentenced to two years in federal prison.

Moda Center Murals

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Eight new murals from local artists are on display inside of the Moda Center. They're part of the Portland Trail Blazers' Roots to Roses project. You'll see them on the 100-level concourse. Two of the murals represent iconic Portland neighborhoods. The Alberta mural honors the rich legacy of Portland's Black community while the Hawthorne piece is described as paying tribute to the city's food scene and rainy-day charm.

ODOT Needs Applicants For Maintenance Positions

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Transportation may not have enough snowplow drivers this winter because they aren't getting enough applicants for the jobs. ODOT has an unusually high number of open positions, because of a hiring freeze that was put into effect when the agency's funding was in doubt. The Legislature passed a bill that funds the positions, but not enough people are applying. There are positions available across the state. The deadline to apply is this week.

Southern Oregon Drug Bust

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Grants Pass, OR) -- The Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team has made another large drug bust. Officers executed a search warrant on a property and seized 130 pot plants and 50 pounds of processed marijuana, which were all destroyed. They also found a gun, 38 grams of cocaine and a small amount of heroine. Four people were arrested at the illegal grow site.

Surveillance Video Needed In Homicide Investigation

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are asking residents in Northwest Portland to help with the investigation into the murder of Krystal Pendergraph. She was found fatally shot in a car last Saturday near Northwest Kearney Street and 22nd Avenue. People in the area between Northwest 19th and 24th avenues and Glisan to Pettygrove streets are asked to upload all surveillance video from 5:50 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. last Saturday. Police have created a website where the video can be sent.

Officer Involved Shooting

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Eagle Point, OR) -- A suspect was killed and an officer was wounded in a shooting Wednesday in Eagle Creek. Police responded to a domestic disturbance and contacted the suspect near the covered bridge. The suspect was fatally shot. The officer suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. Oregon State Police are leading the investigation.

Judge Extends Order Stopping National Guard In Portland

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The federal judge hearing the lawsuit by the State of Oregon against National Guard troops being used in Portland has extended the temporary restraining orders that stop troop deployment. The two orders were set to expire this week. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is considering a stay from the federal government that could allow the troops to be deployed. The temporary restraining order has been extended to October 31st with the three-day trial set for October 29th. If the Court of Appeals rules against the orders they would be dissolved.

Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Great Shakeout earthquake drill will be held at 10:16 a.m. on Thursday. You're supposed to drop, cover and hold for one minute. If you're at the coast, you're also supposed to practice walking out of the tsunami zone as fast as you can. A Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake could knock out water, electricity and natural gas for several weeks. You're supposed to have enough water and food for at least two weeks. You can register for the drill at Shakeout dot org. The website Ready dot gov has tips on how to prepare.

Oregon Gas Prices Decline

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The price of gas continues to decline in Oregon. Triple-A reports the state's average price for a gallon of regular unleaded fell five cents over the last week to $4.09. The national average dropped a nickel to $3.08. Prices are being pushed down by lower costs for crude oil and weak demand for gas. The price decline is expected to continue.

Doctor's Bail Reduced

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A Clackamas County judge has reduced bail for a doctor who's charged with alleged sex abuse of patients. West Linn Doctor David Farley faces charges involving three female patients. He faces a separate civil lawsuit by over 100 alleged victims that seeks one-billion-dollars in damages. Farley was initially held on 500-thousand-dollars bail. His attorneys argued he couldn't afford 50-thousand-dollars bond and he wasn't a flight risk. The judge reduced bail to 100-thousand-dollars.

Clarinet Playing ICE Protester Charged With Assault

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A woman who was tackled and arrested while playing clarinet outside the ICE building in Portland is being charged with assaulting a federal officer. Federal prosecutors claim 38-year-old Oriana Korol kicked and bit an officer while being detained for allegedly interfering in the arrest of another person. Footage of the arrest obtained by KOIN 6 News shows Korol face-down in the mud with an officer on top of her. Korol and the rest of her brass band were playing the "Ghostbusters" theme outside the facility Sunday when officers rushed in and arrested three people. Meanwhile, police have not yet revealed why Korol was transported across state lines to be held in the Clark County Jail following her arrest.

Oregon Housing Program's Success

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is making progress keeping people from becoming homeless and getting people off the streets and into housing. Oregon Housing and Community Services reports that since 2023, when Governor Tina Kotek declared a homelessness state of emergency, more than 55-hundred households have been rehoused. Sixty-two-hundred shelter beds were funded or created. Nearly 26-thousand families received assistance that kept them from losing their homes. Kotek says it's progress, but the work is not finished.

Fatal Stabbing Suspect Convicted

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A Clackamas County jury has found Chad Westover guilty in the murder of Tristan Thomas. Last year, Thomas was involved in a dispute with some residents of an apartment complex on Sunnyside Road. Westover attacked and killed Thomas. Video recorded the attack. Westover will be sentenced November 17th.

Puffin Plates Coming To Oregon

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon will have a puffin license plate. The Oregon Coast Aquarium organized the effort to create the design that shows a tufted puffin floating on the sea, watching fish swim below. More than three-thousand vouchers had to be purchased to show interest in the plate and that cleared the way for it to happen. The Oregon DMV says it'll be around six months before the plates are available.

28 Arrests During Transit Mission

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- 28 people were arrested last week when police ran a mission aimed at transit centers. A special booking facility was set up at East Precinct, so officers could get back to the mission faster. Most of the arrests were for possession of illegal drugs. Five vehicles were towed and one stolen vehicle was recovered. Officers saw one man using drugs across the street from a pediatric clinic. He collapsed indicating a possible overdose, so officers gave the man Narcan and he was taken to a hospital.

Oregon Guard Deploys To Southern Border

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Around 60 members of the Oregon National Guard will go to the southern border to help with security operations. A mobilization ceremony was held Tuesday for members of the 1249th Engineer Battalion. They'll provide logistical support including vehicle recovery, maintenance, refueling and parts distribution. Soldiers will receive training at Fort Bliss, Texas. The mission is being coordinated through the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense.

Backyard Flock Bird Flu Watch

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- It's bird migration season and the Oregon Department of Agriculture is warning owners of backyard flocks to protect them from wild birds that could be carrying the virus. Whether you raise chickens, ducks, turkeys or other birds, ODA wants you to evaluate your biosecurity practices and take action to prevent the spread of bird flu.

33-Year-Old Cold Case Solved

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A 33-year-old cold case in Portland has been solved. Workers clearing brush near the St. Johns Bridge in North Portland found skeletonized human remains. Testing over the years failed to identify the remains until DNA genealogy was conducted. Investigators identified the person they thought might be the brother and a DNA test confirmed the remains were Bryant Deane. He was around 39-years-old when he died. His parents died in 2017 and 2019, not knowing what happened to their son. They left a space for him on their headstone, so he can now be laid to rest with his family.

Timberline Lodge Raising Prices

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Timberline Lodge, OR) -- Timberline Lodge is raising prices and they say Oregon's broken recreational liability system is to blame. Timberline's insurance carrier left the state October 1st and Timberline had to go with a more expensive company. Their liability insurance will increase 166 percent. There will be increases in peak time lift tickets, tier 2 season passes and summer ski products. They're calling on the Legislature to pass reforms that will bring insurance prices down. They say it's affecting the entire recreation industry.

OHA Improves Durable Medical Equipment Access For Medicaid

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Health Authority is making it easier for Medicaid recipients to get motorized wheelchairs and other durable medical equipment. Last year, more than 80 people contacted OHA's Ombuds program about difficulty getting the equipment. Besides electric wheelchairs, it also includes prosthetic limbs, blood sugar monitors and infusion pumps. OHA changed several rules for Coordinated Care Organizations to improve access to the equipment.

McKenzie Pass Closes

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Sisters, OR) -- Time has run out this year to drive through McKenzie Pass. The Oregon Department of Transportation has closed the west side of the pass near the junction with Highway 126 and at the summit by Dee Wright Observatory. East side gates for the scenic route, also known as Highway 242, remain open. The closure near Sisters will happen no later than November sixth. Old McKenzie Pass is a narrow, winding road and is not maintained in the winter.

Kaiser Permanente Nurses To Strike

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Around four-thousand nurses and other healthcare workers at Kaiser Permanente in Oregon and Southwest Washington will hit the picket line Tuesday. They've been negotiating on a new contract since March. They want better pay, staffing conditions, and safer working conditions. It's a limited strike that could last through Sunday. Kaiser says they've been preparing for the strike and hospitals, medical clinics, dental offices and pharmacies will remain open. They're bringing in 76-hundred nurses and clinicians.

Bear Eat-A-Thon Underway

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- A bear eat-a-thon is underway as they fatten up for winter. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says this is the time of year when it's especially important to keep garbage cans locked up, remove outside pet food, birdseed and poultry feed. Bears will spend around 20 hours a day looking for food. Black bears live along the coast, in the Cascades, and in the Blue Mountains. Owners of short-term rentals are reminded to warn their guests about the need to be bear-aware.

Portland Free Trees

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The City of Portland is giving away four-thousand free trees this fall. That's up from three-thousand trees last year. Funding from the Portland Clean Energy Fund paid for the additional trees. The Portland Parks website has details on how to register and the types of trees available. Each address can get up to three trees. Registration fills up fast.

Lane County Arrest

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Florence, OR) -- A fugitive from Indiana was arrested near Florence after trying to run down deputies. Lane County Sheriff's deputies found 41-year-old Tyler Leavitt on a Forest Service road. He tried to escape in his car, nearly hitting a deputy and hitting a patrol car. One deputy fired a shot while the other deputy jumped out of the way. After hitting another patrol car, a deputy used a PIT maneuver to disable Leavitt's vehicle. He was taken into custody and arrested.

West Linn Doctor Indicted

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A former West Linn doctor who's accused of sexually assaulting 170 women and girls who were his patients has been indicted and arrested. In 2022, a Clackamas County grand jury failed to indict David Farley. In 2024, the Clackamas County District Attorney asked the Oregon Justice Department to investigate. They pursued new leads and presented the case to another grand jury that indicted Farley on 11 felony charges involving three victims.

Portland Fugitive Caught

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A man wanted in connection with a homicide in Portland two years ago was arrested Monday in Montana. Twenty-one-year-old Connor O'Brien is accused of stabbing Tiara Atencio in the South Tabor Neighborhood in October of 2023. He was taken into custody in Missoula by the Montana Regional Violent Crimes Task Force and awaits extradition back to Oregon on a murder charge.

Cascades Ski Resorts Hope For More Snow

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Timberline Lodge, OR) -- Snow fell in the Cascades over the weekend and ski resorts hope the cool weather trend continues. Timberline Lodge and Hoodoo received seven inches while Mt. Bachelor had five inches. All of the resorts remain closed. They normally hope for an opening around Thanksgiving weekend.

Burn Bans Lift

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The rainy weather has allowed fire districts around Portland to lift the burn ban. The Oregon Department of Forestry says the risk of wildfire is reduced. The burn ban remained in place longer than usual this year, because of an extended period of warm and sunny weather.

Possible Tornado Damages Three Buildings In Longview

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Longview, WA) -- No injuries are reported after a possible tornado ripped the roof off a building in Longview. The National Weather Service in Portland says at least three buildings suffered significant wind damage in the windstorm just after 3 yesterday afternoon. The agency says it won't know whether it was a tornado until they complete a storm survey but that an eyewitness described seeing some visible rotation in the cloud.

Driver Arrested For DUI In Fatal Crash

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Kelso, WA) -- A driver was arrested for DUI after hitting a pedestrian in Kelso Friday evening. Police say the pedestrian, who was a Kelso resident, died at the scene. 45-year-old Larry Hole, of Kelso, was arrested for Vehicular Homicide, DUI, and Possessing Controlled Substances.

Video Released From Police Use Of Force Incident

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police have released video from officer worn cameras of an incident where a neck hold was used on a suspect who tried to grab an officer's gun during a fight. The suspect had tried to hit cars with a metal pole. As officers were taking 43-year-old Bo Davis into custody, he resisted. A fight with officers lasted over four minutes. Video shows during the fight, Davis tried to grab an officer's gun several times. A Taser was ineffective. The neck hold allowed officers to take Davis into custody. He faces several charges. The use of force investigation continues.

Homicide Investigation

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are investigating the death of a woman in Northwest Portland. Saturday afternoon, officers responded to a welfare check on a woman in a parked car near Northwest 23rd and Kearney had appeared to have been shot. Homicide detectives are investigating. No other information was released.

MAX Construction To Impact Service

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Construction affects the MAX Red line this week. Trains aren't running from Gateway to the Airport through Saturday. Shuttle buses run every 15 minutes and passengers heading to the airport should plan on delays.

Oregon Returns $3.5 Million In Unclaimed Funds

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon State Treasurer's Office is returning three-and-a-half-million-dollars in unclaimed funds to Oregonians this month. Unclaimed funds are in forgotten bank accounts, uncashed payroll checks, and tax refunds, among things. The Checks Without Claims program identifies the lost funds and locates the owner. The total fund has over one-billion-dollars. In many cases, the owner can't be located. You can check to see if you have unclaimed funds in the Unclaimed Property Program on the State Treasurer's website.

Emergency World Naked Bike Ride

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Hundreds of cyclists took part in the Emergency Naked Bike Ride in Portland Sunday afternoon. It was a demonstration against the militarization of Portland after President Trump activated the National Guard. The troop deployment is pending a decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The group started at the Convention Center and held a die-in on the Burnside Bridge before pedaling to the ICE building.

Arrest In Child's Murder

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Coquille, OR) -- A Coos County man is charged with second-degree murder of a nine-year-old. On September 28th, deputies responded to the stabbing of a child at a home in Charleston. It was initially reported as an accident involving a younger sibling, but the Coos County Sheriff's Office says detectives later conducted a search of the home and arrested Levi Higgins-Green who is charged with the child's murder.

Crash Homicide Investigation

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Corvallis, OR) -- The Linn County Sheriff's Office is investigating a crash as a homicide. Early Saturday morning, the Corvallis Fire Department responded to a single vehicle crash. There was one person in the car who had injuries that weren't caused by the crash. The person died at the scene. The Linn County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information about the case to contact them.

Cyclist Hit Suffers Life-Threatening Injuries

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Tigard, OR) -- A cyclist suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash Tuesday morning in Tigard. Police says the 48-year-old rider was southbound on the Highway 99W sidewalk when he moved into the bike lane and then crossed the southbound lanes and hit a northbound car. The man wasn't wearing a helmet. A nurse and responding officers performed CPR until paramedics took him to a hospital. The driver remained at the scene. No citations were issued.

Hauser Fire Station Burns

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hauser, OR) -- An investigation is ongoing after a small fire station on the southern Oregon Coast burned to the ground Tuesday morning. North Bend firefighters responded to the Hauser Fire Station to find the building and the trucks engulfed in flames. Firefighters had to cut through metal doors to get inside. No personnel were in the building when the fire started. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

Oregon Teacher Of The Year

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Springfield, OR) -- Oregon's Teacher of the Year is a special education teacher in Springfield. Sally Golden has worked in Springfield Public Schools for 20 years and coordinates the Community Transition Program for young adults with disabilities who have completed high school. She receives a 10-thousand-dollar cash prize as the state's teacher of the year, and her transitions program gets another five-thousand-dollars.

Downtown Albany Crash

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Albany, OR) -- A driver who passed out behind the wheel of a Hummer in downtown Albany caused damage but no injuries last weekend. Albany Police say the man's wife grabbed the wheel to avoid hitting other vehicles. The driver's foot was on the gas, so she steered onto the sidewalk hitting several trees, light poles and utility boxes before coming to a stop after hitting a traffic signal. No pedestrians were hurt and no vehicles were hit. The driver and his wife were taken to a hospital for evaluation.

Fatal Pedestrian Crashes Up

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The number of pedestrians killed in crashes is up across the country, including in Oregon. The website Construction Physics analyzed data and found most pedestrian crashes happen on urban roads at night. In 94 percent of the crashes, driver distraction was not the cause. In 66 percent of the cases, the pedestrian was at fault. From 2014 through 2023 in Oregon, the number of pedestrians killed in crashes doubled to 110. Last month, Portland City Council reaffirmed its Vision Zero plan to reduce pedestrian crashes.

Rip City Reuse Expands To Veterans Memorial Coliseum

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Rose Quarter is expanding the Rip City Reuse Program to Veterans Memorial Coliseum. At the Moda Center, plastic cups that are used for drinks are returned bins to be washed, sanitized, and reused. Starting October 16th with Disney on Ice, the program will be offered at Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Bold Reuse is the business that operates the program. Studies show cleaning and reusing cups have less of an environmental impact than sending single-use cups to a landfill.

Hikers Rescued In Gorge

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Cascade Locks, OR) -- Two hikers were rescued from a dangerous trail in the Columbia River Gorge Tuesday night. The hikers were on the Horsetail Falls trail system when they called 9-1-1 for help around 10:30 p.m. Using their phone to get GPS coordinates, a deputy found they were near the Rock of Ages Trail which is rugged and overgrown since the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. The Multnomah County Sheriff's Green Hornet team reached them around 1 a.m. and helped them return to the trailhead where their car was parked.

ICE Demonstrator Charged With Spitting On Officer

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland man who was demonstrating outside of the ICE building is charged with assaulting a federal officer. Agents were clearing demonstrators from the driveway when 38-year-old Alexander Boyce refused to move and spit on an officer's helmet. Since June 13th, 31 people have been charged with federal crimes for offenses committed at the ICE building. 37 people have been charged locally in Multnomah County Court.

Oregon State Fair Attendance Up 37%

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Despite record-breaking heat, attendance at the Oregon State Fair last month was up 37 percent. The heat during the first five days had attendance down nearly 30 percent, but after the weather cooled crowds turned out in force making up for the slow start. The All-American Rejects' show on opening day of the Fair was the highest attended show of the Columbia Bank Concert Series this year. New features at the fair included the Pirate's Parrot Show and the acrobatic show Roaring Riptides.

Officer Shooting Names

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police have released the names of the suspect and officers involved in a shooting on September 20th. Officers were investigating a man with a gun who threatened people at a gas station in southeast Portland. Officers pulled the suspect over and there was an exchange of gunfire. The suspect, 30-year-old Bryan Velasco-Ruelas was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers Spencer Foster and Sammy Smith Jr. were involved in the shooting and remain on paid administrative leave during the investigation.

Fire Burns Scrap Metal Near Vancouver

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- No injuries are reported after a large pile of scrap metal caught fire near the Port of Vancouver Tuesday evening. More than 40 firefighters worked through the night to put the fire out at Pacific Coast Shredding. 20 firefighters remained on Wednesday as the company's crews work to take the pile apart, so the fire could be extinguished.

Sex Abuse Suspect Flees Mid-Trial

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A sex abuse suspect from Gresham who is on trial has fled. Gresham Police say Sammy Lisero Cardoza cut his GPS monitor and fled following the first day of his trial. A nationwide warrant has been issued for his arrest. Cardoza may have fled to Washington state.

ODOT Hiring For Winter

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Now that ODOT has funding it needs to avoid layoffs, the agency is moving quickly to fill hundreds of job vacancies. ODOT officials say they need to hire winter maintenance staff before the season hits. Typically, those jobs are filled during the summer, but this year's budget uncertainty put the process on hold. In addition, twice as many people left the agency this summer than in a typical year.

20 Oregon Counties Back Marion County's Lawsuit Challenging Sanctuary Law

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Twenty of Oregon's 36 counties are supporting a federal lawsuit filed by Marion County that questions how the state's sanctuary laws interact with federal immigration rules. The lawsuit seeks clarification on whether the county can release parole records of four undocumented immigrants to federal agents after ICE issued subpoenas in August. Marion County argues that Oregon's sanctuary law conflicts with both state public records law and federal law. The counties signed a letter backing the suit but are not joining the litigation. The Oregon State Sheriff's Association has also expressed support, with 34 sheriffs calling for similar legal clarity.

Kaiser Permanente Workers in Oregon, Washington Plan to Strike

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Thousands of Kaiser Permanente employees in Oregon and Washington are preparing to join a nationwide strike next week after their contract expired last month. Roughly 44-thousand health care workers across the country are set to walk out, demanding higher pay and safer working conditions. Locally, workers plan to picket Tuesday at Kaiser Westside in Hillsboro and Wednesday at Kaiser Interstate in North Portland. Kaiser has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Avian Flu Detected in Wallowa County Backyard Flock

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Wallowa County, OR) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock of ducks and chickens in Wallowa County. It's the first confirmed case in the county, with initial testing done at Oregon State University before being verified by the USDA. State veterinarians have quarantined the property and euthanized the birds to prevent further spread. Officials say no affected animals entered the food supply, and properly cooked poultry and eggs remain safe to eat. The Oregon Department of Agriculture is urging flock owners to strengthen biosecurity as wild bird migration increases the risk of infection.

Portland Chef Justin Woodward Dies at 43

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Celebrated Portland chef Justin Woodward, best known for leading the kitchen at the acclaimed restaurant Castagna, has died at the age of 43. Woodward, who passed away October 2 in San Diego, earned multiple James Beard Award nominations and was praised for bringing Michelin-level cuisine to Portland. He became executive chef at Castagna in 2011 and later led its sister restaurant, OK Omens, until 2024. Colleagues described him as a devoted and innovative artist who gave everything to his craft.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Visits Portland Amid National Guard Controversy

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Portland Tuesday to tour the city's ICE facility and meet with Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. The visit comes days after President Trump ordered National Guard troops to Oregon - a move blocked by a federal judge. Kotek again told Noem there's no insurrection in the state and warned against military involvement in local policing. During her visit, Noem demanded increased security around the ICE building, threatening to send more federal officers if city officials don't comply. Protesters and counterprotesters gathered outside during the visit, though no arrests were reported.

In-N-Out Expands Into Portland Market With New Gresham Facility

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- In-N-Out Burger is taking a major step toward expanding in the Portland area with the purchase of a 71-thousand-square-foot industrial building in Gresham. The California-based chain bought the property on Northeast Sandy Boulevard as part of a plan to serve the regional market. The space will support distribution and operations as In-N-Out prepares for future restaurant openings across the metro. Since 2019, the chain has opened locations in Keizer and Ridgefield, Washington, and has filed plans for sites in Beaverton, Vancouver, Hillsboro, and near Portland International Airport.

Blanchet House Begins Renovations on New Women's Shelter in Northwest Portland

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Blanchet House has received approval to begin renovations on its first overnight women's shelter in Northwest Portland. The new facility, called Bethanie's Room, will provide up to 75 beds for women, including those who are transgender or gender expansive, with well-behaved pets allowed. Located in the Slabtown neighborhood, the shelter will offer nighttime accommodations and partner with nearby services like Rose Haven for daytime support. Blanchet House raised three-million dollars to fund the project and hopes to open the shelter before the end of the year.

Portland Police Chief Says City Can Manage ICE Protests Without National Guard

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police Chief Bob Day says Portland officers are capable of handling ongoing demonstrations outside the city's ICE facility without National Guard assistance. His comments came after a federal judge blocked the Trump administration from deploying Guard troops from any state, ruling that attempts to do so violated earlier court orders. Day said local police, in coordination with federal partners, have maintained control of the protests, which he described as confined to a single block in South Waterfront. He acknowledged isolated assaults but said overall activity only escalated after national attention grew.

Portland Cracks Top 15 in National Rat Infestation Rankings

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland has been named one of the most rodent-infested cities in America, ranking 11th on Yelp's new list. The West Coast dominated the rankings, with Los Angeles and San Francisco taking the top two spots. Yelp says searches for "rodent" in Portland have surged as cooler weather drives rats indoors. The report urges residents to seal gaps, clear clutter, and schedule regular inspections to keep rodents out.

New Alert System Warns Drivers of Approaching Fire Engines in Tualatin

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Tualatin, OR) -- Firefighters in Tualatin are using new dashboard technology to warn nearby drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching. The system, called HAAS Alert Safety Cloud, sends real-time alerts to car dashboards and navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze when fire crews activate their lights. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue says 18 vehicles are already equipped, with plans to expand the technology to all frontline rigs next year. The system aims to reduce crashes with emergency vehicles and improve safety for both drivers and first responders.

Ohio Man Sentenced for Stealing Elderly Oregon Woman's Life Savings

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- An Ohio man has been sentenced to four years in prison for stealing an elderly Oregon woman's life savings. Prosecutors say 49-year-old Jimi Terell Ward convinced the woman to invest in a fake house-flipping deal, ultimately taking more than 160-thousand dollars. Ward pleaded guilty in 2023 but fled to Ohio before sentencing and was later extradited back to Oregon. The victim, now 78, told the court the theft wiped out her retirement savings. A restitution hearing is scheduled for December 15.

RV Fire in Northeast Portland Knocks Down Power Lines

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Fire crews quickly extinguished an RV fire in Northeast Portland on Monday that also brought down several power lines. The blaze broke out near Northeast 134th Avenue and Halsey Street and spread to a nearby RV before it was contained. No injuries were reported, but the flames damaged utility lines overhead. Fire investigators are still working to determine what caused the fire.

Supreme Court Declines to Hear Project Veritas Challenge to Oregon Recording Law

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, DC) -- The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear a challenge to Oregon's law banning secret audio recordings of in-person conversations, leaving the state's privacy protections intact. The decision upholds a Ninth Circuit ruling that dismissed Project Veritas' lawsuit claiming the law violated First Amendment rights. Oregon's statute requires all parties to consent to in-person recordings, with limited exceptions for emergencies or law enforcement. The Oregon Department of Justice says the ruling reaffirms residents' right to control how their words are shared, while Project Veritas and free speech advocates argue the law restricts investigative journalism.

Oregon Opens Applications for 1.6-Million-Dollar Federal Trail Grant Program

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon officials are now accepting applications for up to one-point-six-million dollars in federal grants to improve public trails statewide. The Recreational Trails Program, managed by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, will fund projects that build or upgrade trails, trailheads, and maintenance equipment. Local governments, tribes, and park districts have until November 15 to apply, with letters of intent due October 15. Applicants must provide a 20 percent match, which can include volunteer labor or donations. The program has supported more than 550 trail projects in Oregon since 1993.

Amazon Opens Largest Fulfillment Center in Pacific Northwest

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Woodburn, OR) -- Oregon officials joined Amazon representatives Monday to open the company's new PDX 8 Fulfillment Center in Woodburn. The half-billion-dollar facility is Amazon's largest in the Pacific Northwest and will employ up to 3,500 people during peak seasons. The site features advanced robotics designed to improve safety and speed up deliveries. Representative Andrea Salinas said the technology is creating new opportunities rather than replacing existing jobs.

Charges Dropped Against Conservative Influencer Arrested at Portland ICE Protest

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Prosecutors have dropped all charges against conservative influencer Nick Sortor after his arrest during protests outside Portland's ICE facility last week. The Multnomah County District Attorney's Office said police had probable cause to arrest Sortor but later determined video evidence did not support a disorderly conduct charge. Officials said Sortor's actions, while provocative, were defensive and protected under state law. Two other people arrested that night still face charges. The Justice Department has since announced an investigation into Sortor's arrest.

Trump Administration Appeals Ruling Blocking National Guard Deployment to Portland

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, DC) -- The Trump administration is asking the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn a judge's order blocking the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland. The move follows a weekend of legal battles after U.S. District Judge Karen Immergut ruled that the administration overstepped its authority by attempting to federalize Oregon's National Guard. The ruling was expanded Sunday to bar the use of Guard units from any state in Oregon. White House officials argue the deployment is needed to protect federal property, while Oregon leaders say the move violates state sovereignty. The Ninth Circuit is expected to decide within days whether to allow the deployment to proceed.

Nearly 12,000 Runners Take Part in Portland Marathon Amid Perfect Weather

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Thousands hit the streets Sunday for the Portland Marathon and half marathon, with nearly 12-thousand participants - about three-thousand more than last year. Organizers credit the jump to a new sponsorship with Nike. Among the highlights, 20-year-old Micah Margason set a course record, while his fiancé, Malia Harvey, ran her first half marathon in honor of her late father. Runners of all ages took part, including 71-year-old Glen Buck, who completed his first half marathon with help from family. The event ran smoothly, with no disturbances reported along the route.

Firefighters Rescue Person from Burning Home in Tualatin

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Tualatin, OR) -- Firefighters rescued an adult from a burning home Monday night on Piute Court near Southwest Martinazzi Avenue. Crews arrived to find the house fully engulfed in flames and located the person in a back corner of the home. The victim was treated at the scene before being taken to a hospital, though their condition has not been released. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue says the blaze was quickly brought under control.

Portland Organizers Plan 'Emergency' Naked Bike Ride to Protest National Guard Deployment

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Organizers of the World Naked Bike Ride are planning an "emergency ride" this Sunday in response to President Trump's push to deploy National Guard troops to Portland. The protest is scheduled for October 12 at 2:30 p.m., with the starting location to be announced Friday. Organizers say the ride is meant to oppose what they call the "militarization of the city." Portland has a long tradition of using nude rides as protest, and organizers note that Oregon law allows for nudity in political demonstrations.

Woman Pleads Guilty To Intimidating Federal Officer

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A woman who threatened federal officers with a knife outside of the Portland ICE facility has pleaded guilty to felony intimidation of a federal officer. In June, 47-year-old Julie Winters was outside of the ICE facility when she swung a knife at officers in an attempt to intimidate them. In August, when Winters reported to Pretrial Services she made forcible contact with a U.S. Deputy Marshal and she was arrested. Winters will be sentenced in December.

Energy Grants Cancelled

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, D.C.) -- The Trump Administration is canceling nearly 500-million-dollars in energy grants to Oregon. The money would have funded work to toughen the grid against wildfires and modernize the grid to handle the demand being created by artificial intelligence and data centers. The cuts also stopped the hydrogen hub project in Washington state that would have included Oregon.

Rowena Fire Hazards

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Rowena, OR) -- Work continues to cleanup following the Rowena fire and it'll affect drivers on I-84 this week. Crews will be removing hazardous trees that were damaged by the fire and could fall. A state contractor will start work Monday on the stretch of highway between Rowena and The Dalles, beginning with the eastbound side. The Rowena Fire burned more than 36-hundred acres, including dozens of homes last June.

Tualatin River Body Identified

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Tualatin, OR) -- Human remains that were found in the Tualatin River last month by a kayaker have been identified. Detectives are investigating the incident as a murder. The Washington County Sheriff's Office used DNA to determine the two pieces discovered August 8th and 9th belonged to 34-year-old Ezequiel Avila-Ruiz, who was known to camp in the area. Detectives are now looking for anyone with information about Avila-Ruiz after he was last seen on the evening of July 31st in Hillsboro.

ICE Protester Arrested

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A woman who allegedly assaulted a federal office at the ICE facility in Portland appeared in court last week. Federal prosecutors say 39-year-old Katherine Vogel was first detained for painting the facility's driveway. They say when agents brought her inside for questioning, she punched one of them in the face. This is the 28th person charged since mid-June in connection with ongoing demonstrations outside the South Portland ICE building.

Elmer Name Oregon State House Republican Leader

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Republican members of the Oregon House have elected a new leader. Representative Lucetta Elmer, of McMinnville, was the deputy leader under Christine Drazan, who wants to be appointed to Senator Daniel Bonham's seat. Bonham announced his plans to resign. Elmer has been a member of the House since 2023.

Wells Fargo Layoffs

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Wells Fargo is laying off 50 people from its downtown Portland office. The employees were notified on September 30th and it will be effective November 28th. Employees will get severance packages based on their length of service and the opportunity to continue health care for a limited time. They will also have access to career transition services.

Driver Identified In Boring Pub Crash

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Boring, OR) -- Oregon State Police have released the name of the driver who was killed in a crash Tuesday morning in Boring. A pickup driven by 77-year-old Anthony Koenig of Lake Oswego went off the road and crashed into the Timber Bar & Grill, causing the roof to partially collapse. An employee of the bar wasn't injured. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Federal Judge Recused Over Trump Administration Request

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR)  --  The federal judge in Portland who's overseeing the city's motion to reverse deployment of National Guard troops has been reassigned at the request of the Trump Administration.  Judge Michael Simon is married to Oregon U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici, who has been outspoken against the deployment.  Federal prosecutors argued it would be a conflict of interest for Judge Simon to hear the motion.  The case was reassigned to Judge Karen Immergut, who was nominated to serve in 2019 by President Trump.  The troop deployment is waiting for the judge's decision after hearing the motion.

DOJ Economic Justice

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Attorney General's Office has doubled its capacity to help Oregonians. A new Economic Justice Section adds a Working Families unit with several additional attorneys, who will be able to take on more cases and help more families than ever before. They can help people who get scammed, face predatory practices and unfairness in the workplace. The unit is self-funded through its casework.

Veterans Affairs Impacted By Shutdown

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The federal government shutdown is impacting some programs for veterans, but the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs says its services aren't affected. The VA has also said the majority of its federal services for veterans and their families will continue, including VA medical centers, benefits and various hotlines. However, programs that are impacted include agency outreach, maintenance at VA cemeteries, regional offices for VA benefits are closed, along with some call centers.

BOLI Increases Investigations

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- New funding from the Oregon Legislature is allowing the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries to increase investigations of wage theft. In late 2024, BOLI limited those investigations to workers earning less than 25 dollars and 34 cents an hour, in an effort to clear a backlog in the wake of underfunding. The legislature increased the agency's budget by 30 percent this year, allowing investigators to catch up. That additional money also allows BOLI to reopen claims that weren't investigated when the income threshold was in place.

Mayor Wilson Sends Letter To Time

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- TIME has published a letter from Portland Mayor Keith Wilson about federal troops being sent to Portland. Wilson says President Trump's descriptions of Portland being a "hellhole," "war ravaged," and "under siege" couldn't be farther from the truth. Wilson says the federal government is wasting money on troops that could be used to improve schools, bridges and health care. Wilson is demanding to know what the President means by saying he'll bring "full force" to American cities.

Box-spring Boat

Posted About Seven Months Ago by KBND News

(Eugene, OR) -- A homeless man in Eugene who was warned he needed to leave his camp built a make-shift boat and moved onto the river. Patrick Jackson made the boat out of a box-spring mattress and other items in his camp. Jackson was anchored several feet from shore, with an anchor made of rope and plastic bags filled with rocks. Officers used a pitchfork to drag the vessel to dry land and Jackson was arrested on several charges, including possession of illegal drugs.

Oregon Fights Federal Cuts To Crime Victim Services

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is joining 19 states in a lawsuit to block new restrictions on federal funding used to support crime victims, including survivors of domestic violence. New rules take effect October 31st barring states from using federal grant money to provide services to victims who can't prove their legal status in the country. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield argues the policy is unconstitutional and notes many providers don't have the resources necessary to be able to screen victims.

Sanctuary Policies Lawsuit

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The federal government is suing four Oregon counties over sanctuary policies. The lawsuit claims Clackamas, Washington, Multnomah and Marion counties refused to provide information on 10 violent felons after they were released from what the federal government calls lengthy prison sentences for crimes ranging from manslaughter to rape. Immigration authorities sent detainers to local officials prior to the men's release but those requests were not honored. The ten were released from prison between 2022 and this year.

Pentagon Releases Details About Troop's Mission In Portland

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, D.C.) -- The Pentagon has released some details about what Oregon National Guard troops will be doing in Portland. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell issued a statement saying guard members are "preparing to support U-S Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other U.S. Government personnel who are performing federal functions, including the enforcement of federal law, and to protect federal property in Oregon."

Oregon Unemployment For Some Furloughed Federal Employees

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Employment Department is ready to help furloughed federal workers. Some of the workers will be able to apply for unemployment benefits. Guidance on qualifications is available at the unemployment website, and applications can be done through Frances Online. According to the OED, around 30-thousand people in Oregon were on the federal payroll around this time last year and an estimated 10-thousand could be directly impacted by the shutdown.

Portland Naked Bike Ride

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon National Guard troops in Portland could draw a special appearance of the World Naked Bike Ride. Organizers are planning an emergency ride in response to the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland. Thousands of unclothed cyclists have been known to take part in rides through the Rose City. In the past, they've been to protest fossil fuels or other environmental concerns. In an Instagram post Wednesday, the group says an Emergency World Naked Bike Ride will be announced soon - quote - in response to the militarization of our city.

WA Paying $9M To Portland Woman Sexually Abused In Foster Care

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Olympia, WA) -- Washington is paying millions of dollars to a Portland woman who says she was sexually abused under the state's foster care system. The Seattle Times reports the state will pay nine-million dollars to 34-year-old Ashley Miller. Miller says her foster parent's live-in boyfriend raped and abused her from the time she was five-years-old until she was 12. Her lawsuit says the Department of Social and Health Services knew the man was a convicted felon and failed to properly monitor her foster home's conditions. The man, identified as Carlos McFann, pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree rape of a vulnerable adult last year in a separate case.

Trump Posts About Portland

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- President Trump is criticizing Oregon Governor Tina Kotek on Truth Social. Trump wrote yesterday that Kotek must be, quote, "living in a Dream World." He went on to claim Portland is a "never-ending disaster" and said "it is run like a Third World Country." Kotek doesn't manage the city of Portland. That's the mayor's job. In a second post, Trump says the National Guard is "now in place and has been dedicated to restoring law and order." However, no guard members have yet arrived in Portland. Senator Jeff Merkley says their pre-mission training is happening at Camp Rilea, near Astoria.

Sheriff Piloting AI Transcription Software

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- The Washington County Sheriff's Office will run a pilot program to test artificial intelligence software that transcribes officer body camera audio. Axon, the company that makes the video cameras, also makes AI software that turns the audio from the video into text. Deputies can use it for writing reports. The pilot program starts October 1st and will last two months. Deputies can only use it for certain offenses that were approved by the District Attorney's Office.

Phishing Scam Reported In Medford Area

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Medford, OR) -- There's a new phishing scam targeting people in Southern Oregon. It involves Jackson County's emergency alert system. The phishing scheme claims a person's "Jackson Alerts" account will be deleted within 48 hours unless they click on a link to confirm their information. Anyone who gets the message should not click any links. If you are unsure if it's legitimate, contact Jackson County Emergency Management directly, using the phone number available on their official website and don't use the contact details in the email.

Foreign Journalists Could Be At Risk

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, D.C.) -- The Trump Administration is proposing that foreign journalists be required to re-apply for permission to work in the U.S. every few months. Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have sent a letter to Secretary Kristi Noem asking the Department of Homeland Security to drop the proposal. Wyden says it could lead to the Administration kicking out journalists the President doesn't like. Senator Jeff Merkley introduced a resolution calling on the President to commit to free speech consistent with the Constitution and support media independence.

Cyclist Crashes Into Patrol Car

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Authorities say a cyclist crashed into a police car Tuesday morning in Northwest Portland. The incident happened at Northwest 19th and Burnside. The cyclist wasn't seriously injured and was transported to a hospital for evaluation. Police say the bike's brakes failed and the cyclist went through a red light and hit the patrol car.

SNAP Benefits Changing

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- SNAP food benefits will change for some Oregonians. The federal government is modifying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, based on the Big, Beautiful Bill passed earlier this year. The changes will roll out over the next year. Three main groups will be affected: households receiving utility assistance, able-bodied adults ages 18 through 64 with no child under age 14 in their SNAP group, and certain lawfully present immigrants. The State of Oregon is sending notices to households October 15th.

Jefferson County Drought Emergency

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in Jefferson County. The declaration directs state agencies to prioritize help for those impacted, including farmers and businesses in the recreation and tourism sector. According to the U-S Drought Monitor, Jefferson County has experienced moderate drought since mid-July and severe drought from late July through early September. This is Oregon's eighth drought declaration so far this year.

Shooting Suspect Faces More Charges

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Tigard, OR) -- A shooting suspect in Tigard has been linked to more gun-related cases. The shooting happened Saturday afternoon at a Mexican restaurant on Pacific Highway. Police say Victor Gonzales-Osegura shot a customer who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Gonzales-Osegura is also charged in a shooting where no one was hit at the Tigard Plaza Shopping Center and for threatening employees of a store with a gun. Gonzales-Osegura faces ten charges.

National Guard Deploy To Cost $3.8 Million

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- President Trump's deployment of the Oregon National Guard is expected to cost at least three-point-eight-million-dollars. Russell Gibson, with the Oregon Military Department, told Oregon legislators that would be the cost for an 80-day deployment. President Trump ordered 60 days, but it takes extra time at the beginning and the end of the mission. The costs include pay, housing and other expenses. The cost will be paid by the federal government.

Portland's Burn Ban Lifted

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Fire & Rescue has lifted the city's burn ban. They say even though the ban is lifted, it's important to only burn dried cordwood in fire pits with a hose nearby. Flame lengths should be kept under two feet. Used charcoal briquettes need to be disposed in a covered metal container.

Card Skimmer Found In Woodburn

Posted About Seven Months Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Woodburn, OR) -- Another illegal card skimmer has been found at a Dollar Tree store, this time in Woodburn. Over the past month, nearly a dozen skimmers have been recovered from stores around western Oregon, primarily at Dollar Tree locations and mini marts. Skimmers steal the card's information, so accounts can be accessed. Before using a credit card reader, look to see whether it's loose or if it appears to have been tampered with.