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Articles by Holly Russell
Scottish carers win top awards after bumper year of nominations
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Cal Fire contains mobile home fire that spread to vegetation
Photo Gallery 2 Images CORNING, Calif. -Firefighters contained an early morning fire that started at a mobile home and spread to surrounding vegetation on East Avenue and McLane Avenue in Corning. The fire was reported around 7:40 a.m. Wednesday. Nearly 20 minutes after, crews fully extinguished the vegetation fire. The mobile home was destroyed by the fire. The cause remains under investigation. Firefighters said around 9:37 a.m. the fire was contained.
1 dead after fiery crash in Trinity County
TRINITY COUNTY, Calif. - A deadly crash started a vegetation fire north of Hayfork in Trinity County. California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officers say that on Tuesday at 7:56 p.m. they received a report of a vegetation fire on SR-3 near mile marker 17 miles north of Hayfork. A half-hour later, they say a crew cab pickup was discovered off the roadway in the burn area. After flames were extinguished, CHP officers say it was determined that a deceased person was in the pickup.
Bear Fire: Phase 1 clean-up begins Oct. 5
Photo Gallery 17 Images OROVILLE, Calif. - The Bear Fire, also known as the North Complex West Zone, has burned 84,595 acres and is not expected to grow, according to CAL FIRE. Click here for an interactive map of the current evacuations. A total of 2,342 structures have been destroyed and 113 have been damaged in the Bear Fire. The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) will begin the Phase 1 Assessments of residential properties destroyed on Monday, Oct. 5.
Bear Fire: Containment increases to 60%
Photo Gallery 17 Images Last updated: 9:01 a.m. Tuesday, September 22, 2020 - Fire crews increased containment of the Bear Fire overnight. The Bear Fire is now 81,500 acres and now 60% contained. The entire North Complex is 299,723 acres and is now 74% contained. In a Tuesday morning incident report, CAL FIRE said 1,947 structures have been destroyed and 106 have been damaged. 10,000 structures remain threatened by the Bear Fire.
Air quality warnings issued for Butte, Shasta and Glenn Counties
County health officials in Butte, Shasta, and Glenn Counties have issued warnings about air quality due to smoke from multiple fires in the area, including the August Complex Fires. Posted: Aug 19, 2020 11:28 AM Updated: Aug 19, 2020 12:20 PM Posted By: Holly Russell GLENN, SHASTA & BUTTE COUNTIES, Calif. - County health officials in Butte, Shasta, and Glenn Counties have issued warnings about air quality due to smoke from multiple fires in the area, including theAugust Complex Fires.
PG&E outage affecting 1,000+ customers south of Chico
CHICO, Calif. - A PG&E power outage is affecting 1414 customers south of Chico River Road and west of Highway 99 in Butte County. The outage started around 8:06 a.m. The cause remains unknown and a crew has been assigned to address the outage, the utility said. Action News Now is working to learn more information. Check back here for updates.
Chico Fire battled vegetation fire near apartment building
CHICO, Calif., Fire crews worked to put out flames burning just feet away from an apartment building. Chico Fire responded to reports of a vegetation fire that sparked in a dry creek bed near Highway 32 and 9th Street just after 3 A.M. Before help arrived, neighbors jumped into action and tried to put out the flames themselves, according to police officers on scene. No injuries were reported. Firefighters said the cause of the fire is unknown at this time.
Firefighters contain 12-acre vegetation fire in Lassen County
LASSEN COUNTY, Calif. - Cal Fire crews have contained the Muck Fire that was burning in the area of Highway 299 and Muck Valley Road, south of Nubieber. The vegetation fire was first reported around 11:30 a.m. Monday. Cal Fire said it burned 12 acres of light grass, safe, and juniper. No structures were threatened and the cause is still being investigated.
Local Emergency declared in Modoc County due to the coronavirus
MODOC COUNTY, Calif.- A local emergency has been declared in Modoc County by the Public Health Officer and Director of Emergency Services due to the coronavirus. There are currently no confirmed cases of the virus within the county, according to county officials. However, they said in a press release Thursday that cases are confirmed in neighboring Klamath and Washoe Counties.
Saturday Oct. 12 Howard Emergency notification
After consulting with the Decker Fire officials the Fremont County Sheriff’s Department has re-instated a PRE-EVACUATION notice as a precaution for Howard residents in zones 1 and 2 as of 11:30 am. An existing spot fire in the southeast corner of the Decker Fire in the wilderness area has become more active. Winds from the West are pushing the fire to the East and residents will see increased smoke and activity in that area today.
Five-acre fire burning in Cottonwood
Firefighters are working to contain a five-acre fire on Bowman Rd. in Cottonwood. One outbuilding and several cars have been destroyed. Crews say air resources are in place. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for the area, caused by low humidity and strong winds. No word yet on how the fire started. Action News Now reporter Spencer Joseph is on scene. We will continue to update you as we learn more.
Car Crashes into fire hydrant on corner of Lassen Avenue
CHICO, Calif. - Cal Water is working to repair a fire hydrant after it was damaged in a car crash. A man drove off the road and hit the fire hydrant on the corner of Lassen Ave. and Cohasset road, causing water to shoot upward. The car continued on before denting a light pole, Chico Police and Fire were on scene. Action News Now spoke to one firefighter who said that no one was injured in the crash.
PG&E power safety shut-offs
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. - PG&E has confirmed that it plans to shut off power to three counties in the Sierra Foothills beginning at 5 p.m. Monday.
Stone Fire: Evacuation Warning Lifted
The Evacuation Warning for areas of Berry Creek caused by the Stone Fire has been lifted by the Butte County Sheriff's Office. Firefighters are working to contain the Stone Fire which threatened homes in Berry Creek, 25 miles northeast of Oroville. An Evacuation Warning is in place for the following areas: -Journey Way & all roads off of Encina Grande Rd. including Bloomer Hill Rd. and Black Bear Rd.
Oroville home known as Wicks Corner destroyed by fire
OROVILLE, Calif.- A Table Mountain home built in the 1940s known as Wicks Corner has been destroyed by a fire. CalFire said around 5:30, a homeowner noticed breakers shutting off, so he turned them off. The homeowner saw smoke and turned off the main breaker, but did not call 911. An hour later around 6:30 a.m., flames were seen in the attic and quickly spread to the roof. He called 911 and the closest CalFire station was 10 minutes away.
Arrest made in connection to video with shooting threat against Las Plumas High School
The Butte County Sheriff's Office says an arrest has been made in connection to a video shooting threat against Las Plumas High School. The video has been circulating on social media. The Sheriff's Office says the arrest was made Tuesday night, and there is no longer a threat to the school. We are working to learn more details this morning.
Butte County Sheriff's Office arrests suspect in 1991 cold case murder
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif.- The Butte County Sheriff's Office has arrested a suspect in the 1991 cold case murder of Tracy Zandstra. Deputies arrested 55-year-old Richard Pyle,of Stockton on the evening of Aug. 15, 2019. The investigation began as a missing person case involving Zandstra, who was 29-years-old. She was reported to have disappeared from her home in Stirling City, in Nov. 1991.
Deputies in Butte County, California arrest suspect in 1991 cold case murder
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. — The Butte County Sheriff's Office has arrested a suspect in the 1991 cold case murder of Tracy Zandstra. Deputies arrested 55-year-old Richard Pyle, of Stockton on the evening of Aug. 15, 2019. The investigation began as a missing person case involving Zandstra, who was 29-years-old. She was reported to have disappeared from her home in Stirling City, in Nov. 1991.
Redding Police arrest man for making threats to his fiancé
REDDING, Calif.- Redding Police arrested a man for making threats to his fiancé, after a chase. Around midnight Thursday, officers received a call from a woman who said her fiance David Winters had threatened to shoot her in a phone call. She told officers Winters also sent her threatening text messages, including pictures of a firearm. Officers checked her neighborhood and broadcasted an alert. An hour later, around 1:00 A.M. officers spotted Winters in his car near his fiance's home.
Redding Police arrested a man suspected of attacking is parents with a pipe
REDDING, Calif.- Redding Police arrested a man suspected of attacking his parents with a metal pipe. This happened Tuesday night around 9 P.M. on Arizona Street. Police responded to a disturbance and saw the parents outside their house. They had fled in fear of their son, 43-year-old Loy Choy Shaechao. Police say Saechao had barricaded himself in the home. Officers entered and found him locked in a bedroom with the metal pipe.
Butte County Sheriff's Office investigating two high-speed chases in Oroville
OROVILLE, Calif.- The Butte County Sheriff's Office is investigating two high-speed chases in Oroville. Deputies say that they assisted the CHP in the second high-speed chase around 6 p.m. Thursday. We are working to learn more details on what started this chase. Earlier in the day, deputies say they were involved in another high-speed chase.
Redding police arrest stabbing suspect
REDDING, Calif.- Redding police arrested a stabbing suspect along the Sacramento River Trail. The incident happened early Thursday morning, around 3 a.m near the dead-end of Bechelli Lane. Police say they spoke to the victim, who identified Margaret Brice, 26, of Redding, as the suspect. When officers found Brice on Churn Creek Road near Mistletoe Lane, they say she had blood on her clothes.
Man arrested on multiple felony charges after standoff with Butte County deputies
UPDATE 10:50 a.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2019 - The Butte County Sheriff's Office has released new information regarding a standoff in Nord Wednesday morning. Authorities said the standoff started around 2 a.m. when a man started making dangerous threats toward his family. He threatened to kill his children and himself, according to investigators. The standoff ended around 7:15 a.m. when the man let his children out of the home.
Chico Police searching for two suspects in attempted break-in
Chico Police are searching for two suspects in an attempted break-in they say was initiated by a social media dating app. Officers say this happened around 2 a.m. Tuesday morning in the 500 block of Pomona Avenue, Chico. Police describe the first suspect as a male, wearing dark clothing and armed with a handgun. The second suspect is described as a heavyset female adult. The suspects are believed to have run away before police arrived. The motive for the robbery is under investigation.
Man dies after car crashes into a fence on Butte College Campus
OROVILLE, Calif. - A man died after crashing into a fence at Butte College before 9 p.m. on Tuesday, according to campus police. Campus police said as of now, it appears the driver had a medical emergency and drove into a fence on Butte College Drive in Oroville. The driver's identity has not been released.
Lumgrey Fire burns 215 acres, evacuation warnings lifted
UPDATE 7:28 a.m. Tuesday, June 18, 2019 - The evacuation warning for Dutch Creek and Empire Creek is no longer in effect. The fire is currently 215 acres with an estimated 65 acres on the south side of the Klamath River. The Forest Service said crews made good progress on the Lumgrey fire overnight, especially on the 150 acres held on the north side of the Klamath River.
Conspiracy theory shuts down Grass Valley Charter School fundrasier
GRASS VALLEY, Calif.- A bizarre conspiracy involving former FBI Director James Comey caused officials at a Grass Valley school to cancel its upcoming fundraiser. The tweet in question, posted by Comey on April 27th, is part of a popular Twitter game, with the hashtag #FiveJobsIveHad.
One killed in Redding house fire
One person is dead following an early morning fire in Redding. Firefighters say the flames sparked on Alfreda way near Hartnell Ave around 4 A.M. Monday morning. Action News Now spoke to neighbors on the scene who say a family lived in the home for decades. They say two people were able to make it out safely, however, a grandmother was unable to escape. However, officials have not confirmed that information. Action News Now is working to learn more.
Redding Police arrest man for violent attacks after crash
REDDING, Calif.- Redding Police arrested a man after they say he violently attacked and bit homeowners and an officer. Wednesday, officers say 24-year-old Tyrone Hill crashed into two cars and a light pole on Vega Street. He then got into a fight with a neighbor and chased the neighbor into their home, kicked the front door in, and attacked him- biting them on the face and forearm. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital and received medical attention.
Police searching for Redding teen missing, at-risk
RED BLUFF, Calif.- Redding Police are searching for a teenager that is missing and considered at-risk. He is believed to be in the Red Bluff area, last seen near Churn Creek Bottom. He is described as a white male, 5'7" and 150 pounds, with brown hair. Police said he was last seen wearing a black jacket with a gold logo. Anyone with information is asked to call the Redding Police Department at 530-225-4200.
Redding Police investigating man killed by train
Redding Police say a man was killed by a train in the area of Breslauer Lane and State Route 273 in Redding. Officers arrived at the scene around 2 A.M. on Monday morning. They say they found a 60-year-old man dead on the tracks. It is unknown why he was standing on the tracks when he was hit. The Union Pacific Train was traveling south from Dunsmuir to Roseville. Action News Now is working to learn more about the circumstances surrounding the crash, and the victim's identity.
Chico police searching for drive-by shooting suspects
CHICO, Calif.- Chico authorities are searching for suspects in a drive-by shooting on Tuesday night. On Tuesday, around 7 p.m, officers received multiple reports of gunshots on W. 9th Street. When they arrived on the scene, officers say they spoke with witnesses who told them that at least one suspect in a white truck fired at a car with people inside. Witnesses said the truck fled the area before officers arrived. No one was injured. Police say the investigation into this incident is ongoing.
California Senate approves stricter vaccination rules
SACRAMENTO, Calif.- The Senate Health Committee approved tougher vaccination rules Wednesday, despite hearing hours of testimony from opponents. This proposal gives state public health officials the power to decide which children can skip their shots before attending school, instead of local doctors. Committee members decided stronger oversight is needed to prevent unnecessary exemptions sometimes granted by doctors who are paid to excuse students.
Judge approves PG&E's plan to pay $235 million in bonuses
A federal judge has approved PG&E's plan to pay $235 million in employee bonuses this year, despite bankruptcy and thousands of lawsuits from victims of wildfires. The plan was approved at a hearing in San Francisco Tuesday. PG&E stated in a court filing that the money was intended to provide incentives to workers and would not be distributed if the company doesn't meet its safety and financial goals. Governor Gavin Newsom reacted to the plan, saying: "I don't think they deserve it.
PG&E is asking state regulators for another rate hike that would take place in 2020
Advertisement Share Updated: 12:26 PM PDT Apr 23, 2019 pge Advertisement PG&E is asking state regulators for another rate hike that would take place in 2020 Share Updated: 12:26 PM PDT Apr 23, 2019 PG&E is asking state regulators for another rate hike that would take place in 2020.In the face of thousands of wildfire lawsuits, the utility is seeking the funds to improve the safety and reliability of its system.
PG&E requesting another rate hike
PG&E is asking state regulators for another rate hike that would take place in 2020. In the face of thousands of wildfire lawsuits, the utility is seeking the funds to improve the safety and reliability of its system. The California Public Utilities Commission must approve the proposal for it to take effect. Combined with the previous request made in December, this would significantly impact customers, raising monthly rates an average of $22 dollars a month.
Modoc County Sheriff's deputies find children trapped in cages
ALTURAS, Calif.- A couple is behind bars on multiple charges after deputies discovered two young children kept in cages in their Alturas home. The Modoc County Sheriff's Office arrested Ramon Zendejas and Mercadies Williams, both 25 years old, on child endangerment, drug, and weapons charges. In their home County Road 101, deputies say they found children in two modified cribs stacked on top of each other and secured to the wall like dog crates.
78-acre controlled burn planned in Shasta-Trinity National Forest
A controlled burn is planned for Monday in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This will be in the area of Blue Rock Road, about four miles north of Weaverville. The Trinity River Management Unit is planning the burn to remove dead vegetation and reduce the risk of future wildfires. Smoke will be visible for two to three days along China Gulch Road, Little Browns Creek, and Browns mountain. A total of 78 acres may be burned, depending on weather conditions and safety other considerations.
Wildlife returning to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area after the Carr Fire
Wildlife is returning to Whiskeytown National Recreation Area after the devastation of the Carr Fire. Officials with the National Park Service say that community members are concerned, and have asked them how animals are recovering after the wildfire. Now they say that games cameras are picking up an increase in activity, a clear sign that life is beginning to flourish once again in the burn scar.
Chico police searching for 3 suspects that reportedly beat, robbed pedestrians at gunpoint
CHICO, Calif.- Chico Police are looking for two suspects that authorities said beat and robbed two pedestrians at gunpoint early Wednesday morning. Police said the robbery happened around 1 a.m. Wednesday morning near the corner of W. Sacramento Avenue and Warner Street. Two pedestrians, ages 22 and 23, reported that three black, adult men approached them from behind after exiting a silver 4-door sedan.
Chico Police investigating car found in Sycamore Pool
Chico Police are investigating a car found in Sycamore Pool in Bidwell Park. The car was discovered around 6:30 this morning. Officers say that no one was found in the car. Our reporter Cecile Juliette talked to witnesses who say the car has been in the pool since 1 A.M. Action News Now is working to find out the details.
Redding Police: DUI, Snapchat crash arrest
Redding Police arrested a man after they say he was driving drunk while using Snapchat, when he crashed into a power pole, causing a small fire. Officers say James Knapp hit a power pole on Old Oregon Trail and Rancho Rd. Thursday night around 11:30. The crash brought down powerlines and started a small fire. Knapp was on probation for a prior DUI.
Camp Fire housing bill to be introduced at the State Capitol
Butte County's housing crisis after the Camp Fire is about to get a voice at the state capitol. Assemblyman James Gallagher plans to introduce legislation to help speed up housing projects in Butte County. This will be in the Natural Resources Committee on Monday, April 8th at 2:30 pm in the State Capitol, Room 447. Assemblyman Gallagher is inviting anyone in support of the bill to attend, in hopes of pushing the bill through.
Manhunt underway for Shasta County shooting suspect
ANDERSON, Calif. - Shasta County sheriff's deputies are on the hunt for a shooting suspect. Deputies said the suspect fired shots into a home on Majestic View Drive in Anderson at around 6:30 p.m. Sunday night. Three people who were in the home at the time were not injured. Witnesses saw a car driving away. Authorities are now searching for the suspect, whose identity is unknown. Stay with Action News Now for the latest updates as they become available.
Events happening this weekend in the Northstate
Northern Calif.- Looking ahead to the weekend, here are some events happening in the Northstate. Boys and Girls Club Cook-off The Boys and Girls Club is holding a cook-off to raise money for Camp Fire survivors. Proceeds will go to supporting summer services for kids in Paradise and Magalia. The cook-off will be held Saturday, at Chico Nettleton Gym on Wall Street from 4-7 P.M. Tickets can be bought at the Paradise Teen Center off Skyway.
PG&E makes changes to executive board
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.- PG&E has made changes to its executive board while facing bankruptcy and thousands of lawsuits due to potential liability for the Camp Fire and other disasters. The former head of the Tennessee Valley Authority, Bill Johnson, is the new President. He will be joined by 10 new members on the Board of Directors. Only three current board members will remain.
Mt. Shasta Ski Park closed today due to rain
Mt. Shasta Ski Park will be closed today due to rain. So, if you were planning on having a day on the slopes, you will have to postpone. But, they say conditions are set to clear up by Saturday.
Chico Police say driver hit car, then two dump trucks
Police say a hit and run driver damaged two dump trucks while trying to escape another crash. They say a man driving a white van hit a car on W. Sacramento Avenue around 11:30 last night. Then, police say he tried to take off onto Nord Avenue, where he crashed into two dump trucks at the 76 gas station. No one was injured in the crash, but according to officers, the driver had to be taken out of the van. Police say they are working to learn if the driver was under the influence.
Placer County embezzlement arrest
A woman is now behind bars after the Placer County Sheriff's Office says she wrote checks to herself from an Auburn business. Deputies say that Amber Clark has committed check fraud for several years. An investigation into missing funds led to her arrest. She is now charged with embezzlement.
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