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Major Blackfoot road closure starts Monday: West Bridge Street shut down for sewer upgrade

Drivers in Blackfoot — listen up! A major road closure is coming next week.

Starting Monday, November 10th, a section of West Bridge Street will be shut down to allow crews to upgrade a sewer lift station connecting to the city’s wastewater treatment plant. The closure is expected to last through Thursday, affecting traffic from Parkway Drive, Doud Street, and the frontage road, plus drivers coming into town off Highway 39.

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Fish and Game forced to put down food conditioned bears in Teton County

On Nov. 4, Fish and Game responded to reports of a black bear sow and three cubs that had been frequenting a Teton County neighborhood for over a month. The bears repeatedly received food rewards from unsecured garbage and other attractants, which prompted them to spend much of their time in yards and around homes. Due to their food conditioning and habituation, the decision was made to euthanize these bears in the interest of public safety. 

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NWS confirms EF-0 tornado touched down in Rigby late October

The twister touched down around 1:45 p.m. on October 27th near N 3950 E. The brief but powerful storm path spanned approximately 200 yards long and was about 50 yards wide.

The NWS confirmed the twister remained on the ground for only around five minutes, but in that short time, it caused significant damage to the property. The damage was consistent with 75-85 mph winds, which violently uprooted two large pine trees, flipped a recreation vehicle on its side, significantly damaged an outbuilding, and destroyed a partially constructed sunroom attached to a local home.

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Idaho Falls Regional Airport confirms normal operations despite national flight reductions

Good news for travelers flying out of Idaho Falls, the FAA’s new 10% flight cuts will not impact the Idaho Falls Regional Airport directly.

IDA Leadership confirmed this morning that flights out of the airport will continue as scheduled. However, some connecting airports and flights across the country could see delays or schedule changes as a result.

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Reed’s Dairy invites Idaho Falls to celebrate new production facility after devastating fire

In the difficult months since the fire, the Reed family demonstrated incredible resilience. They continued serving customers by outsourcing the processing of dairy products while spearheading the construction of their state-of-the-art replacement facility.

The reopening will be marked with a special two-day celebration:

Ceremonial Ribbon-Cutting: Friday, November 14th, starting at 2:00 PM.

Public Tours: Friday (3 PM – 6 PM) and Saturday, November 15th (9 AM – 12 PM).

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“Ready for Change”: Pocatello Mayoral candidates reflect on election and city’s future

Following the local elections, Pocatello is guaranteed a new mayor by December 2, 2025. Mark Dahlquist had 40% of the votes, and Greg Cates had 30%.
“I think the city was just ready for change. You know, they made one thing clear last night in the election is that they’re they’re ready for new leadership. And they just want things to change in our city. And I do believe, that over the last 16 years our city has been going backwards instead of forwards,” Cates said.

“What I was hearing really quite often was that people were ready for a change, that they were yearning for a new direction, a new perspective, a new style of leadership,” Dahlquist said.

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Idaho Falls Native and son die in ‘Murder Hornet’ attack while zip-lining in Southeast Asia

An Idaho Falls native and his teenage son died last month after being attacked by a swarm of Asian giant hornets—often dubbed ‘murder hornets’—while zip-lining in Laos, in Southeast Asia.

Daniel Owen, 47, and his 15-year-old son, Cooper, died following the incident on October 15th, as reported by USA Today. The father and son were stung by hundreds of the aggressive insects during their vacation before being rushed to the Phakan Arocavet Clinic for emergency care.

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Island Park mourns unexpected loss of Fire Chief Nathanael Brandemihl at 45

The Island Park community is mourning the unexpected passing of Fire Chief Nathanael Brandemihl, who died at his home on Saturday, November 1st, at the age of 45.

The North Fremont Fire District posted to Facebook: “Our hearts are with the Island Park Fire Department and the family of Fire Chief Nathanael Brandemihl during this incredibly difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences and support as you navigate this loss. The fire service community stands with you in strength, compassion, and remembrance.”

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Idaho Food Banks reach tipping point as unpaid workers, SNAP cuts drive record demand

The ongoing federal government shutdown, on the edge of becoming the longest ever, has created a severe national emergency. Federal workers are going unpaid, SNAP recipients are set to only receive partial benefits this month, and the financial fallout is pushing local food banks to a crisis as they struggle to serve both affected employees and low-income families.

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Madison holds off Boise 17-14 to advance in 6A playoffs

Madison is now moving on in the 6A state playoff after a tight 17-14 victory over the Boise Braves in Rexburg tonight. Brennan Dredge of Madison started things off right for the team, as he took the opening kickoff past mid-field and all the way down into plus territory, setting up the Bobcat offense in great field position. That drive would end in a converted field goal for Madison, and they took an early 3-0 lead.

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Paranormal Investigators probe decommissioned Idaho Falls plane for post-mortem passengers

In the lead-up to Halloween, a team of Paranormal Investigators took a closer look into the strange activity surrounding an old plane at the Idaho Falls airport that’s long been out of service.

For nearly 20 years, Pocatello Paranormal Research (PPR) has established itself as Idaho’s most experienced crew for all things cryptid and creepy. According to the group’s website, the team is known for tackling strange happenings from coast to coast, but their latest case has them looking for residual turbulence in the static air of a grounded jet.

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Museum of Idaho receives a 50k donation and presents “Mummies of the World” exhibit

The Museum of Idaho is excited to announce a generous $50,000 donation from Oklo, an advanced nuclear technology company developing its first commercial Aurora powerhouse in Idaho at Idaho National Laboratory. This partnership marks a major contribution to the region’s cultural and educational fabric, reinforcing Oklo’s deep commitment to the Idaho Falls community.

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Idaho students can still ‘Name that plow’ in ITD contest

There’s still time for Idaho students to help name one of the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD’s) snowplows.

“It is the time of year to start looking out for plows, looking out for slick roads, winter driving yet again. And we are happy to see students getting interested and hope that we can have fewer and fewer plow strikes all winter long, especially in our area and all across Idaho,” said Sky Buffat, PIO for the Idaho Transportation Department.

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No SNAP benefits for November means local food banks bracing for surge in demand

The United States Department of Agriculture recently announced that, due to the government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP benefits (also known as food stamps) will not be issued for November.

The cut in funding means Americans who rely on the system to buy food will have to find alternative means to get the food they need. It also means that unless the government shutdown is ended and funding is restored, food banks around the state are preparing for a large surge in demand over the next few days and weeks.

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The passing of a public servant: Former Idaho U.S. Congressman Richard Stallings passes away at 85

“Richard reminded us that politics at its best is about people, not power. It is about understanding our neighbors’ struggles and standing up for them,” stated Nechocea. “His legacy endures in the leaders he inspired, the communities he strengthened, and the countless Idahoans who saw in him what public service should look like: humble, principled, and tireless in pursuit of the common good. Our hearts are with his family and all who loved him.”

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Idaho Falls Shelter: Pet surrenders aren’t just a -post-holiday problem—The need for help is year-round

According to most reports, animal shelters fill up more during the winter months, most often after Christmas. But for the Idaho Falls animal shelter, they see influxes of animals coming into their shelter throughout the year.

“We do see an influx in dogs and cats after Christmas, when people realize a pet wasn’t a good fit or they just weren’t prepared,” explains Officer Danielle Harker of the Idaho Falls Animal Control. “But we also generally see an increase in the summer months when it gets a little bit warmer, and people are leaving their dogs outside more often; they tend to escape and get out.”

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“Presumption of Innocence”: Judge rules accused Charlie Kirk killer can wear civilian clothes in court

Tyler Robinson, the man accused of killing political activist Charlie Kirk, made his first in-person court appearance last Friday. The closed hearing was requested by his attorney, Kathy Nester, two weeks prior to discuss what Robinson would be permitted to wear during his court appearances.

Attorney Nester filed the motion arguing that forcing Robinson to appear in typical inmate attire or restraints—such as a “suicide robe,” bulletproof vest, or shackles—would unfairly prejudice the jury. She argues that these visible signs of imprisonment lead people to assume he’s guilty, violating his right to a fair and impartial trial.

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National discount retailer Burlington Stores opens in Idaho Falls and donates $5000 to elementary school teachers

To celebrate the Grand Opening of their new store location and highlight their ongoing commitment to education, the retailer will donate $5,000 to a nearby high-needs school through its long-standing partnership with the national nonprofit AdoptAClassroom. The funds will be used to provide students with the classroom materials they need to learn and succeed. The presentation of the donation to the local school community will take place at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. 

“Our goal is to continue to offer area residents tremendous value on brand-name merchandise for the entire family and home,” said Michael O’Sullivan, CEO, Burlington Stores. “We’re continuing to expand our footprint across the country and are excited to be opening a new store in Idaho Falls. We look forward to giving local customers the chance to discover big savings on a wide range of products.” 

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16-year-old charged with first-degree murder in shooting death of Blackfoot’s Rebecca Rivera

The 16-year-old suspect in a Thursday night manhunt appeared in Bingham County Court this morning, charged with first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of a Blackfoot woman.

Bobby G. Jackson of Blackfoot was arraigned today, accused of fatally shooting 30-year-old Rebecca Rivera of Blackfoot in the head on October 23, 2025. He is currently being held on a $1 million bond at the 3B Detention Facility.

Investigators with the Blackfoot Police Department (BPD) have not yet determined the nature of Jackson’s relationship to Rivera. In a press release, the department stated, “Our hearts go out to the Rivera family, our community, and all those affected by this tragic crime.”

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Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office releases new bodycam/drone video in Shelley officer-involved shooting

The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office has released new video footage, compiled from body camera and drone perspectives, detailing the events of the August 19th shooting death of 35-year-old Talon Sessions.

The newly compiled footage features portions of the 911 calls received by Bingham County Dispatch, in addition to the on-the-ground body camera and aerial drone video. According to Sgt. Bryan Lovell of the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, the video is intended to supplement and provide additional context to the prosecutor’s earlier review of the incident.

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Wandering cow moose captured, relocated from Chubbuck backyard

A large cow moose that took an unexpected detour into a Chubbuck neighborhood was safely captured and relocated Wednesday morning thanks to a joint effort by Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) and City of Chubbuck Animal Control.

Wednesday morning, the massive animal wandered into the backyard of a home on Whitaker Road, in a suburban area of Chubbuck. Fish and Game staff were able to successfully tranquilize the moose at the home. Once sedated, the cow was carefully loaded and transported to a more suitable, remote habitat, far from homes and traffic.

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“Idaho Catholics urge Congress to pass bill protecting foreign-born religious workers”

The Catholic community in Idaho is advocating for Congress to pass a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting foreign-born religious workers from deportation. Currently, the Diocese of Boise hosts 79 active priests, 22% of whom are foreign-born and originate from 15 different countries.

Since January 2025, two priests in Idaho have been forced to leave the U.S. due to expired R-1 visas, and the Diocese of Boise is projected to lose its first parish priest in November 2025. An additional 14 priests are at risk of deportation, with estimates suggesting that over 25% of the clergy in Idaho may face this issue by 2026.

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CEI’s Dr. Jill Kirkham wins Innovative Educator Award

ollege of Eastern Idaho’s Dr. Jill Kirkham is getting statewide recognition for her work in the classroom.

Earlier this week, Dr. Kirkham received the Innovative Educator Award in the Social and Behavioral Ways of Knowing category at the 2025 Idaho General Education Summit. This is the second year in a row that a CEI instructor has earned the award.

“We are so excited to be able to celebrate Dr. Kirkham’s contributions to CEI, especially her innovation that inspires her students to think deeply, at the state level,” said Dr. Dana Cotton, Chair for the Associate of Arts Degree.

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West Yellowstone Mayor McBirnie resigns following controversial Facebook posts

Effective immediately, West Yellowstone Mayor Jeff McBirnie has resigned from his position. The move follows a public outcry over a series of highly controversial posts on his personal Facebook account.

The posts, which were confirmed as authentic by the Montana-based newspaper, The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, included statements such as, “I’m ANTIFA. F Trump and his Nazi followers.”

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Lawyers for Jack Smith rebut claims that investigators ‘wiretapped’ GOP members of Congress in January 6 probe

Attorneys for former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith rebutted claims by Republican lawmakers that investigators in the January 6 election subversion case had “wiretapped” GOP members of Congress.

Senate Republicans in recent weeks accused Smith and the FBI of “political weaponization” after the FBI disclosed 2023 court orders used to obtain phone toll records belonging to eight senators and one House member. The records covered calls over four days surrounding the January 6, 2021, attack by Donald Trump supporters on the Capitol.

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Kohberger defense fights $27K restitution request for victims’ families

New developments in the case of the man who confessed to killing four University of Idaho students in November of 2022. The defense for convicted killer Bryan Kohberger is challenging a state request for an additional $27,330 in financial restitution, arguing that public donations have already covered the travel and hotel costs for the families of victims Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen.

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Rexburg Police Station Bond: Police reveal floor plan for proposed police station

The Rexburg Police Department is trying to educate and answer voter questions ahead of the vote on the new police station bond, which would cover the construction cost for a modern facility.

The department is hosting a special open house next Tuesday, October 28th, from 4 to 6 P.M., to give Rexburg residents a chance to check out and tour the aging building firsthand and get their questions answered by officers and city officials. Attendees will be able to tour the existing station and learn more about the proposed project.

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ACLU/Idaho Democrats denounce ‘military-style’ Wilder raid as DHS and Governor Little defend arrests

Tuesday, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin released a written statement confirming the operation and its focus.

“Over the weekend, ICE dismantled an illegal horse-racing, animal fighting, and a gambling enterprise operation …,” McLaughlin stated. “As part of the operation, ICE law enforcement officers arrested 105 illegal aliens. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, we are dismantling criminal networks in the United States.”

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Government shutdown may hold up November SNAP benefits for 125,000 Idahoans

As a result of the ongoing government shutdown, Idaho SNAP recipients could not receive benefits that were slated to be paid in November.

Local News 8 has learned that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) sent a letter to the states regarding the impact of the shutdown on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. While the letter has not been officially released to the public, Local News 8 has confirmed that copies leaked on social media are authentic.

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Authorities warn of rising Bitcoin scams in Eastern Idaho

Authorities are warning residents to be cautious as Bitcoin-related scams become more common in the area. Victims are reportedly being tricked into sending money to fake investment sites or scare tactics, often losing thousands of dollars with little chance of getting it back.

“Criminals are calling Idaho seniors pretending to be from a legitimate business or government agency, then directing them to deposit thousands of dollars into cryptocurrency machines at gas stations to supposedly fix computer problems or pay fake fines,” said Attorney General Labrador. “If anyone demands you put cash into a cryptocurrency ATM for any reason, it’s more than likely a scam and you should report it immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

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Traffic stop leads to sizable drug, contraband arrest in Bonneville County

A routine traffic stop in Bonneville County quickly escalated into the arrest of a Jefferson County man on multiple felony drug charges, last Friday.

Rigoberto Avila Mendoza, 19, was taken into custody after a Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) deputy pulled him over just before midnight on Friday, October 17, near the intersection of 15th E. and Iona Rd.

The incident began when Mendoza allegedly ran a stop sign. As deputies approached the vehicle to speak with the teenage driver, they reportedly detected the smell of marijuana. A check also revealed that Mendoza’s driver’s license was suspended.

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Increased ICE raids raises concerns in Eastern Idaho following federal raid in Wilder

A federal immigration raid at an Idaho horse track over the weekend led to the detention of dozens of individuals by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), raising a torrent of online speculation regarding legal and civil rights concerns.

The raid took place while a public horse racing event was in progress, with a large crowd in attendance, according to a report by KIVI. Eyewitnesses reported a significant law enforcement presence, noting that several officers were wearing masks, stating that ICE detained at least 50 more individuals than the FBI during the operation.

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“Operation No Return”: Dozens of convicted undocumented aliens removed from Idaho jails under new initiative

Governor Brad Little today announced a new state-funded initiative, “Operation No Return,” designed to ensure undocumented individuals convicted of crimes in Idaho are transferred directly to federal immigration custody for deportation immediately upon completing their sentences.

The program, funded through the Governor’s Office Emergency Funds, has already led to the removal of dozens of individuals to date. According to the Governor’s Office, these individuals, all determined to be in the United States illegally, will be deported to their country of origin rather than being released back into Idaho communities after serving their time.

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Driver sentenced to 10 years for 2023 DUI crash that killed teen passenger

Marco Dimitri Cuevas was sentenced to 10 years in state prison yesterday after pleading guilty to Felony Vehicular Manslaughter in a 2023 crash that killed his teenage passenger.

The fatal incident took place over two years ago, on the night of October 14, 2023, near Snake River High School. According to initial police reports, Cuevas was driving a GMC pickup truck while under the influence. He reportedly ran a stop sign and collided with another truck. Both Cuevas and his 17-year-old passenger, later identified as Jesus Ortiz, were ejected from the vehicle. Ortiz died from his injuries at a local hospital, while Cuevas and the driver of the other truck were both injured.

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Pocatello man arrested for alleged Idaho Capitol bomb threat

A Pocatello man has been arrested in connection with a bomb threat made earlier this month to a state government building in Boise.

On October 8, 2025, at approximately 10:14 a.m., the Pocatello Police Department responded to a report of a 58-year-old man making multiple threatening phone calls to employees of a property management company in Pocatello. During those calls, he allegedly made statements threatening violence, including threats to “blow them up.”

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Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID

Idaho State University secures $1.2 million grant for scholarships for future STEM educators

“Scholars are engaged in an array of outreach and support activities to learn more about STEM teaching and learning; some of them are volunteering in schools,” said Cory A. Bennett, Ph.D., professor in the Teaching and Educational Studies (TES) Department and a leader of the project. “Some of them are helping out with different kinds of science or engineering fairs, and they’re getting involved with the education community in many different ways before they start taking their formal coursework in education.”

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Madison County Sheriff to parents: Talk to your kids now about online predator risk

Local detectives and patrol officers have investigated multiple incidents involving children from elementary school to high school age. Sheriff Ron Ball warns parents that “no age group is off limits to online predators.” While the exact number of cases remains unspecified, the trend has prompted the Sheriff’s Office to ask parents to take immediate action.

Sheriff Ball took to Facebook to urge parents to have an important conversation with their children about online safety this week, stating: “We’re asking all parents to take a few minutes this week to talk with your kids about their online activity. Know what apps they use, who they’re talking to, and how to report something suspicious.”

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‘It’s a Need, Not a Luxury’: South Fremont High seeks long-awaited auditorium

“This is something that we need to happen for our students. Some people think it’s just going to be more luxurious and more comfortable for us, but the fact is, we haven’t had a performance space for 30 years, and it’s a need for these students to continue to grow their musicality (and) it’s a need for our community to have a space for our arts,” Band and choir director Matt Bennett, said.

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