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Detectives drop from helicopter to recover remains believed to be Travis Decker, who’s accused of killing 3 daughters

By Holly Yan, Karina Tsui, CNN (CNN) — Months after the bodies of three young sisters were found suffocated and abandoned in the Washington state wilderness, authorities believe they’ve found the remains of the man accused of killing them: their father. Investigators found bone fragments, other human remains and clothes that look similar to what

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Former Island Park Mayor Laurie Augustin advocates for accused in voter fraud case

On Wednesday, Local News 8 spoke with former Island Park Mayor Laurie Augustin, following the initial court appearance of Teara Galbraith, one of the 11 accused. Augustin, who served as mayor from 2000 to 2003, advocated for the individuals arrested.

“I do not believe that anyone on either side of the issue, either for the district or against it, I do not believe those people registered with the intent to defraud anything,” she told reporters.

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Education Secretary Linda McMahon visits Jackson to promote shift of education power to States

Since shuttering portions of the Department of Education, President Trump has tasked United States Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to take the lead on returning several functions of the DOE to the states. Today, Secretary McMahon made her way to the Jackson Hole Classical Academy at K-12 School in Wyoming, highlighting the Trump administration’s plans for education.

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Pocatello Valley Montessori School hosts ‘Human-Powered Rodeo’ with Idaho Walk Bike Alliance Thursday

“I am hoping that this is going to help us increase our revenue in the thrift store,” said Beth Huston, manager of the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store. “In the past, our revenue in the thrift store has been pretty small–enough to pay the bills and payroll and keep the building open–I’m hoping that we can increase the revenue enough to where we can supplement or augment the social services, which we’ve never been able to do.”

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St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store celebrates grand reopening after expansive renovations

“I am hoping that this is going to help us increase our revenue in the thrift store,” said Beth Huston, manager of the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store. “In the past, our revenue in the thrift store has been pretty small–enough to pay the bills and payroll and keep the building open–I’m hoping that we can increase the revenue enough to where we can supplement or augment the social services, which we’ve never been able to do.”

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Utah Valley University students return to class one week after Charlie Kirk was killed on campus

Students are returning to class Wednesday at Utah Valley University just days after prominent conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at an event on campus, thrusting the community into the national spotlight.

Nyasha Paradzai, a UVU junior, said he was lined up in front of Kirk, waiting to debate him at the campus event, when he was killed.

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Solo hiker hospitalized after bear encounter near Yellowstone Lake

A 29-year-old solo hiker is recovering at a local hospital after a bear attack on the Turbid Lake Trail in Yellowstone National Park. The incident, which happened Friday afternoon, marks the first bear-related injury in the park this year.

The man, who has not been identified, was reportedly hiking alone in the Pelican Valley Bear Management Area when he encountered the bear. According to a statement from the National Park Service (NPS), the hiker deployed bear spray as the animal made contact. Despite this, the hiker suffered significant but non-life-threatening injuries to his chest and left arm.

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Read texts police say Kirk shooting suspect and former roommate exchanged, which prosecutors could use as key evidence

By Matt Stiles and Gillian Roberts, CNN (CNN) — Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the September killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, is in court this week for a multiday hearing where Utah prosecutors are expected to preview some of their evidence in the case. Texts that Robinson allegedly sent to his then-roommate the day

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Soda Springs Geyser roars to life after three-month repair

After three months of silence, the famous Soda Springs Geyser is once again erupting. A mechanical failure had sidelined the world-famous man-made geyser, a popular attraction for both residents and visitors.

The geyser, which typically erupts every hour on the hour, stopped working on April 29 due to a pump problem. City officials announced on June 3rd that the issue was more serious than initially thought, requiring a complete replacement of the geyser’s mechanical and valve systems.

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League of Women Voters set up shop at ISU for National Voter Registration Day event

The League of Women Voters of Pocatello set up voter registration stations at the Pond Student Union building and Eli M. Oboler Library at Idaho State University in honor of National Voter Registration Day on Tuesday.
“In today’s world, everyone needs to have a voice,” said Susan Carter, member of the League of Women Voters Pocatello. “The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization whose main goal is to educate voters on the choices they have and to make sure that they get out and have their voices heard.”

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Idaho Falls pizza shop says social media blew customer dispute out of proportion, will reopen Thursday

A local pizza shop, Pie Hole, has temporarily closed its doors, citing online threats, after a dispute involving a customer wearing a MAGA hat blew up on social media. Managers of the pizzeria are saying that the situation was blown “out of proportion” online.

The restaurant has issued a statement affirming that in its five years of business, it has “NEVER…refused service to anyone based on their political, religious, or other beliefs.”

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Tyler Robinson virtually appears for a court appearance on September 16, 2025.

Charlie Kirk shooting suspect charged with murder as prosecutors announce they will seek death penalty

Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has been formally charged with aggravated murder, two counts of obstruction of justice and felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, two counts of witness tampering, and commission of a violent offense in the presence of a child. Utah County Attorney Jeff Gray announced the charges at a press conference Tuesday.

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Heads Up, Pocatello: Expect sirens and lights as airport conducts emergency exercise tomorrow

The Pocatello Regional Airport is scheduled to conduct a triennial live emergency exercise tomorrow, September 17th, from 9 AM to noon. This full-scale drill, mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration, is designed to evaluate and enhance the communication, coordination, and response capabilities of various agencies in the event of an aircraft emergency.

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Pocatello horse-based therapy program hosting fundraiser event with celebrity guest Wednesday

Bridle Up Hope, a non-profit equestrian-based therapy and self-esteem building program, is hosting ‘A Night of Hope’ fundraiser event with food, live music, and an appearance from national rodeo star Amberley Snyder on Wednesday, September 17.
“We are looking for support from the community to help girls, women, and horses of Bridle Up Hope,” said Lana Davies, program director for Bridle Up Hope in Pocatello. “Through support of a fundraiser, those funds are going to go into our scholarship fund to help girls and women who can’t afford the program to be able to participate in a life-changing experience.”

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Two Montana residents sentenced for drug trafficking conspiracy

A Montana man and woman have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced the sentencing of Carson Lee Maynard, 49, of Livingston, and Amy Marie Tillman, 43, of Lewiston.

Maynard was sentenced to 15 years (180 months) in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Tillman received a sentence of nearly six years (70 months), followed by three years of supervised release. Both were also ordered to forfeit a residence in Livingston that was used in their drug operation.

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Sage Hill Casino to temporarily close to undergo major renovations

The Sage Hill Casino, located South of Blackfoot, I-15 Exit 89, will be temporarily closed from Sunday, September 21, through Wednesday, October 15, 2025, to complete renovations designed to enhance the guest experience. Sage Hill Casino is currently scheduled to reopen on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

“These upgrades are an investment in our guests,” said Colista Matsaw, CEO. “We appreciate the community’s patience during this short closure and look forward to welcoming everyone back to an improved Sage Hill experience.”

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IFPC files tort claim against Boise School District over restroom encounter

“We will hold Boise High School accountable for the psychological and emotional harm that its actions caused this teenage girl, who was understandably traumatized by the experience,” said Kevin Shupperd, a senior litigating attorney for the IFPC Legal Center. “Students cannot excel academically if they don’t feel safe at school. No girl should be forced to share school restrooms with biological males—full stop.”

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White House requests $58 million in security funding from Congress following Kirk assassination

By Arlette Saenz, Alison Main, Ted Barrett, CNN (CNN) — The White House has requested an additional $58 million in security funding for the executive and judicial branches following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a Republican congressional aide said. The funding request is being “actively processed” in the context of a stopgap funding bill, the

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A TikTok deal has finally been reached with China, the Trump administration says

By David Goldman, CNN (CNN) — A deal has been reached between the Trump administration and China to keep TikTok operational in the United States, administration officials announced Monday, concluding a yearslong effort that began during President Donald Trump’s first term. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that a framework agreement has been reached, and

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Judge dismisses wrongful termination lawsuit against Idaho AG

“Idahoans elected me to protect families, uphold the Constitution, and ensure government follows the law,” said Attorney General Labrador. “The people of Idaho sent a message that they wanted to change the direction of the Attorney General’s office. When I took office, we began advising state agencies on legal compliance and setting our policies in place. While this former employee may have disagreed with our policy directions, the court found no basis for her claims. I will continue protecting Idaho families and ensuring government accountability.”

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75-year-old Ammon man killed in motorcycle crash near Fremont County

A 75-year-old man from Ammon is dead following a motorcycle crash on Saturday morning near Island Park.

According to the Idaho State Police, the crash occurred at approximately 11:04 a.m. on State Highway 47, near milepost 11. Authorities say the man was riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle when he failed to navigate a curve. The motorcycle left the roadway, went off the shoulder, and crashed into a ravine.

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Overturned fuel trailer causes delays on US-91 south of Idaho Falls

An overturned fuel trailer is causing partial traffic delays on U.S. Highway 91, just north of Shelley, near the Bingham and Bonneville County line. The cause of the crash has not been released at this time.

One right lane is currently blocked. ITD is advising drivers to expect delays and seek alternative routes if possible. Emergency crews are working to clear the scene, but there is no immediate timeline for when the highway will be fully reopened.

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Lights, Camera, Science: Local students featured in national science education video

Students at William Thomas Middle School recently had a unique opportunity to showcase their science skills on a national stage. A film crew from Stile Science, an international science education company, visited the school on Tuesday, September 9th to record classroom footage for a promotional video.

“It’s pretty amazing to know that our small town middle school is part of something that will be seen all across the country,” said Thad Lusk, an eighth grader who participated in the astronomy lab.

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“With a little commitment, we can do hard things”: Idaho Falls man finishes 100 marathons

For most people, completing a single marathon is a life-changing accomplishment. For Kalvin Pike of Idaho Falls, it was just the beginning.
On Saturday, September 13, Kalvin crossed the finish line of his 100th marathon at the REVEL Big Cottonwood race in Murray, Utah, marking a milestone that few runners ever achieve. But this journey of a hundred races didn’t start with a personal goal; it began with a supportive husband cheering from the sidelines.

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Dr. Jeff Meldrum, beloved ISU professor and renowned “Bigfoot” expert, dies at 65

Meldrum was a pillar and the longest serving member of the university’s Department of Biological Sciences, where he had taught since 1993. Beyond the classroom, he gained recognition for his fascination and study of the legendary creature known as “Bigfoot” or Sasquatch, collecting one of the world’s largest collections of “Bigfoot” evidence. His work was featured in numerous documentaries and television programs on the legendary creature.

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Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID

“Business Pitch” competition at ISU, with $4,500 Prize

Are you a high school student with a great business idea? Idaho State University’s Business Pitch competition is now open for registration. The competition offers a chance to win a $4,500 scholarship and valuable entrepreneurial experience.

The competition is designed to give young students a platform to showcase their business concepts while also developing essential skills like public speaking and a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship.

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Deputies cleared in Shelley officer-involved shooting, Prosecutor says deadly force was justified

Three Bonneville County and three Bingham County sheriff’s deputies will not face criminal charges for their use of force in the shooting death of 35-year-old Talon Session. Bingham County Prosecutor Ryan Jolley has concluded that the deputies were justified in their actions after a thorough investigation by the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Task Force.

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Pocatello Police warn of rise in AI-powered virtual kidnapping scams

The Pocatello Police Department is urging residents to be on high alert following a recent increase in virtual kidnapping and ransom scams. The department has reportedly received three reports of a scammer using a local phone number to contact victims.

According to a press release, a male suspect has been falsely claiming to be part of a criminal cartel. The scammer threatens to have kidnapped a juvenile family member and demands a ransom payment. The department has confirmed that these threats are “entirely false” and no kidnappings have occurred.

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IDWR issues September methodology order, Idaho farmers avoid new water restrictions despite dry summer

Farmers across Idaho can breathe a sigh of relief as the state’s water officials have announced that no new water restrictions are needed this year, despite a dry summer that caused a significant water shortfall.

The Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) announced today that its enforcement efforts on existing water orders have been so successful that they’ve almost completely made up for the deficit. IDWR Director Mathew Weaver initially calculated a shortfall of 63,700 acre-feet for the remainder of the irrigation season, primarily impacting the Twin Falls Canal Co. and the American Falls Reservoir District #2.

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New 9/11 monument revealed in Ammon

On September 11, 2025, the Bonneville County Fire Department, in collaboration with Heroes Defense, unveiled a poignant 9/11 memorial in Ammon, Idaho. The centerpiece of the tribute is a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, positioned between two towers, symbolizing the unity and resilience that emerged in the wake of the tragic events 24 years ago.

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Denver-area high school shooting suspect was ‘radicalized,’ officials say

The suspected shooter who critically wounded two students at Evergreen High School in Colorado during their third week of classes this semester appeared to have been “radicalized by some extreme network,” officials said Thursday.

The suspect, a student at the school, took the school bus that morning and brought with him a significant amount of ammunition, said Jacki Kelley, public information officer for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. He roamed the campus, searching for new targets, as he shot out windows and lockers covering a “huge area” of the school, she said.

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“Truly a community area”: Idaho Fish and Game reminds public how to protect Edson Fichter Nature Area

With more visitors than ever enjoying the Edson Fichter Nature Area, Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) is issuing a reminder to the public on how to best protect and preserve this popular and beloved community nature spot.

“It is truly a community area,” said Jennifer Jackson, Communications Manager for the IDFG Southeast Region. “And so think about that when you come here, what can you do as a member of this community to help, protect, maintain, and really, support this special place.”

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Please Just Stay campaign back for another year to encourage conversations about suicide prevention

The Please Just Stay campaign kicked off September 3, and dozens of signs bearing the slogan have popped up at businesses, city buildings, and homes in the Pocatello area. Organization leader Victoria Byrd said the signs are designed to show support and recognition to people struggling with poor mental health and inspire healthy dialogue about suicide.

“Even just saying the word suicide is really hard for people,” said Byrd. “Our hope is that as people see things that they’ll take a minute to reflect about what their own feelings are about it, and get comfortable being uncomfortable having those conversations. I know that I would much rather have an awkward conversation with my friend or my loved one and ask that really hard question, then to find out that they decided to end their life.”

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“Being promoted on 9/11 is profoundly humbling”: Idaho State Police promotes Air Force veteran Jason Horst to Captain

From 1991 to 2005, Horst served in the United States Air Force, where his career shifted dramatically following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. In the years that followed, he taught anti-terrorism protection, safeguarded Afghanistan’s first democratic election by ensuring ballot security during transport, and flew missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom while stationed in Uzbekistan.

“Those experiences deepened my commitment to service. When I returned home, that same calling led me to the Idaho State Police. Being promoted on 9/11 is profoundly humbling and, in many ways, feels full circle. I see the pinning ceremony as a renewal of my duty to serve,” Captain Jason Horst said.

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A police officer walks in front of a tent bearing the slogan 'The American Comeback Tour'

Shooter still at large after Trump ally and activist Charlie Kirk murdered on Utah campus

CNN By Dalia Faheid, Elise Hammond, Aditi Sangal, Dakin Andone, Maureen Chowdhury, Betsy Klein, Lauren Mascarenhas OREM, Utah – A manhunt is underway for the shooter who killed Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative political activist and supporter of President Donald Trump, Wednesday at an event at Utah Valley University. State and federal officials say they

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New details in Fremont County voter fraud case: FBI’s early involvement confirmed in court docs

New court documents in the ongoing Fremont County voter fraud case reveal that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been involved in the investigation since at least April 2024. This information comes from a probable cause affidavit filed by the Fremont County sheriff’s office for one of the three individuals charged on September 2, 2025.

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Willow Creek Fire almost fully contained; crews begin repair work

After an effort spanning over two and a half weeks, Wyoming firefighters are on the verge of fully containing the Willow Creek Fire. As of Wednesday, September 10, the blaze is 96% contained.

Scattered showers largely missed the area, but according to the US Forest Service – Bridger-Teton National Forest, this allowed crews to continue patrolling the fire’s edge and gain ground on containment. Today, firefighters are monitoring the edge for any hot spots that could threaten the containment line.

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ISU debuts new associate degree program in science

“I think the biggest thing is that we really designed it to be flexible,” said Dr. Shannon Kobs Nawotniak, professor and chair of ISU’s Geosciences Department. “We’ve had things like an associate in physics or in geology or in chemistry, and the problem is, with a two year degree, you’ve got to know so fast and sometimes you don’t; it’s not reasonable to know that fast. That’s why we really designed this one to maximize the flexibility and create pathways for students that then can go into any of these fields and get a foundation that will actually set them up successfully for that.”

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“I’m just so grateful for the donor for this gift.” Idaho Falls woman begins recovery after lung transplant

An Idaho Falls woman who received a life-saving double lung transplant has been released from the hospital and is now one breath closer to a full recovery.

Back in 2018, Audra Burgener was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension. Then, she got COVID twice. In 2020, she was diagnosed with COPD. Her breathing continuously got worse over the course of four years since her COPD diagnosis, and she was placed on the lung transplant list in early July.

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Three more charged in Fremont County voter fraud case, Island Park Mayor denies city involvement in investigation

The voter fraud investigation in Fremont County has expanded. Local News 8 has now confirmed through court records that authorities have charged three more people with voter fraud in a 2023 Island Park election, bringing the total number of accused individuals to ten. Local News 8 first broke news of the voter fraud investigation Sunday Night.

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Madison County lifts burn ban, urges continued caution under drought conditions

Effective immediately, the Madison County Fire Department, in partnership with the Board of County Commissioners of Madison County, has cancelled the temporary open fire ban. The temporary ban began on August 1.

“Madison Fire Department thanks our community members for their efforts to prevent wildfire. The community was very responsive to the burn restrictions issued earlier this summer,” said Chief Corey Child. “Our community members worked diligently to prevent ignition and report any fire in a timely manner. Their efforts directly impacted the amount and size of fire in Madison County.”

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Health Alert: Bat found in Lemhi County tests positive for rabies

EIPH has confirmed that a bat found in Lemhi County has tested positive for rabies. Rabies is a fatal viral illness in humans and other animals. Household pets and other animals can be exposed to the virus by playing with sick bats that can no longer fly normally.

While most bats are harmless and do not carry rabies, they are the only animal in Idaho that is a natural reservoir for the virus. Vaccination against rabies for humans and animals is important to protect against illness.

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Idaho Attorney General warns of of dangerous Crypto ATM scams

Attorney General Raúl Labrador is warning Idaho families about a dangerous surge in cryptocurrency ATM scams, which predominantly target seniors through fake tech support calls and government imposter schemes that have cost victims tens of thousands of dollars.

In just one week, an alert Stinker Store employee prevented two separate seniors from losing over $30,000 to cryptocurrency ATM fraud. The employee unplugged the machine and called Boise Police to help convince the victims they were being scammed.

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Family asks for support and forgiveness after toddler killed in accident

The family of Angela Hansen is asking for lots of love and support as she works through her family’s second major tragedy.

Her 22-month-old daughter, Ada, was struck and killed by a truck while Hansen was cleaning the family minivan at a car wash Friday. In addition to that, she lost her husband, Kyley Hansen, to drowning at a family pool party on the Fourth of July in 2023.

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