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“This is a Nightmare”: Goncalves Family/Moscow community denounces Lifetime movie based on Idaho Murders

A planned Lifetime movie based on the murders of four University of Idaho college students by Bryan Kohberger has been met with a wave of online backlash. The Idaho community and the victims’ families have strongly denounced the film, arguing it exploits their trauma for commercial gain.

“With everything that our family has been through, it’s hard to fathom that people are now making a movie,” wrote the Gancalves family. “This is a nightmare for us. We do not want Kaylee being portrayed in a slasher film. They are not characters, they are REAL people. It’s heartbreaking. It’s embarrassing, and Kaylee would not want this. I wish people would just stop.”

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Bryan Kohberger ordered to pay additional restitution to victims’ families

Confessed killer Bryan Kohberger has been ordered to pay more than $3,000 in additional restitution to the families of two University of Idaho victims. Kohberger is currently serving consecutive life sentences for the murders.

On Thursday, the third anniversary of the killings, District Judge Steven Hippler issued a ruling requiring Kohberger to pay approximately $1,420 to Kaylee Goncalves’s family and over $1,500 to Madison Mogen’s mother, covering the cost of urns for their daughters.

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Idaho Falls Power secures 20-year contract with BPA, ensuring stable, affordable rates

“Idaho Falls Power is a city-owned utility and a tremendous asset to our community. City elected officials always strive to protect our community from the ups and downs of the energy market,” said Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper. “This contract, paired with our soon to be operational Peaking Plant, gives us the flexibility to adapt to unpredictable energy markets, keep monthly bills low and help meet future energy needs.”

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Idaho State Rep. Lance Clow resigns, citing health concerns

A lengthy career in Idaho politics is coming to an early close. Long-time Twin Falls Republican lawmaker Lance Clow announced Thursday that he will resign from the Idaho House of Representatives at the end of November, citing health issues that have limited his ability to serve.

“This decision comes with the full support of my family and deep appreciation for the citizens of Twin Falls,” Clow wrote in a news release. “You have honored me with your trust and encouragement throughout my career. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I hope I have lived up to your expectations-and perhaps even exceeded them…”

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Local Insurance Expert Answers Questions About Health Insurance

The federal government shutdown is over, but part of the reason for the fight remains—subsidies for the Affordable Care Act. Americans are now being faced with some tough choices about medical insurance.

Lance Kolbet, President of University financial group and an insurance expert, joined Local News 8 in studio, to shed light about the finer details of these health insurance tax credits.

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Idaho Falls Regional Airport soars past all-time passenger record

“This is a remarkable milestone for our airport and for the tremendous community support that brought us to this point. More importantly, we are deeply grateful to our federal partners at TSA who continue to show up for work despite not having received a paycheck in a month,” said Ian Turner, Airport Director of the Idaho Falls Regional Airport. “Given this unfortunate challenge, it didn’t feel right to celebrate at this time.”

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250 Trucks, 50 States: LDS Church to donate an estimated 10 million lbs of food aid for America250

In preparation for the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is kicking off its partnership with America250, the nonpartisan congressional commission preparing the momentous occasion, by launching a massive nationwide service effort.

To symbolize the milestone, the Utah-based faith announced in a news release Thursday that it has designated a fleet of 250 semitrucks to deliver food donations to 250 food banks across all 50 states.

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GoFundMe launched for widow of Idaho man and son killed in tragic ‘murder hornet’ attack

The Idaho community is rallying to support a local family following a devastating tragedy in Southeast Asia, where a Bonners Ferry woman’s husband and young son were attacked and killed by a swarm of what are believed to be Asian giant hornets.
A wave of support has begun in Northern Idaho for Daniel Owen’s widow, Jessica Owen, and her mother, Nancy Wycoff, both natives of Bonners Ferry.

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Idaho’s Mammogram stats among the worst in the Nation, Doctor debunks myths surrounding life-saving screenings

The rate of women receiving mammograms in Idaho is significantly lower than the national average, with some measurements ranking it near last. Considering that approximately 1 in 8 women will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, this concerning trend is prompting Idaho doctors to speak out.

“Idaho has about average incidents of breast cancer, but the number of women who actually decide to have mammograms performed is one of the lowest in the nation. Last year, I think ranked 50th in the nation,” said Dr. Enslow, MD, a lead radiologist.

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Federal Judge dismisses “absurd” and “outlandish” Satanic Temple challenge to Idaho Abortion Law with prejudice

Attorney General Raúl Labrador applauded the decision, hailing it as a significant legal victory for the state.

“Idaho’s pro-life laws protect both mothers and unborn children, and this decision confirms those protections are constitutionally sound,” said Attorney General Labrador. “The Satanic Temple’s attempt to manufacture constitutional violations out of disagreement with Idaho’s values has been rejected at every level. We’ve defended Idaho’s laws through every stage of this litigation, and we will continue protecting the right of Idaho’s elected representatives to defend life.”

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Out of state fisherman finds human remains in Lemhi County

The fisherman, who was feeling cold after fishing in the rugged Salmon River Canyon, spotted the remains while climbing up a hillside to warm up. The man then led deputies to a rural portion of the roadway.

Deputies located the remains approximately 60 yards up the hillside, situated along the side of a brushy, rocky ravine. The remains reportedly appeared to have been exposed to the elements for several years.

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ByHeart voluntarily recalls infant formula amid nationwide infant botulism reports

Baby nutrition company ByHeart has voluntarily recalled two batches of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, on November 7, 2025, the FDA informed ByHeart of approximately 83 reported cases of infant botulism across the United States since August 2025. Among these cases, 13 infants had reportedly consumed ByHeart formula at some point. The FDA has not found any direct connection between infant formula and the reported cases, and there is no historical evidence of infant formula being a cause of infant botulism.

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Teton County first responders manage triple emergency, remind drivers to ‘Yield to Emergency Vehicles’

Teton County first responders successfully juggled a series of three simultaneous emergencies Wednesday morning, despite being stretched thin by multiple calls across the region. The chaotic morning began with a serious head-on crash on Highway 33, which quickly escalated as crews were pulled away to handle two urgent medical transfers from Victor and Driggs.

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Rexburg honors veterans with dozens of wreaths at Smith Park Memorial

Locals in Rexburg had the chance to check out a decorative display at Smith Park in Rexburg, the home of the Veterans Freedom Memorial. Dozens of wreaths are hung along the entryway of the memorial site to honor and celebrate local servicemen and women.

“We really want to express our appreciation to those who have served and are currently serving. We appreciate all that you do for us,” said Paul Evans, the Rexburg Area Chamber Board.

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West Idaho man sentenced to 15 years for enticing children online in undercover sting

Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced today that Garrett Ray Vanni, 38, of Boise, was sentenced to up to 15 years in prison for attempting to entice children online.

Vanni’s arrest earlier this year was part of a joint undercover operation targeting individuals who use the internet to entice children, coordinated by the Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children task force.

The 38-year-old was taken into custody on February 27, 2025, as a result of a coordinated two-night undercover operation led by the ICAC task force and the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office. The operation involved law enforcement officers posing as underage children to expose adults seeking to sexually abuse children or share child sexual abuse material over the internet.

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“It’s Warmed My Heart”: Idaho Veteran moved to tears by gift of life-saving furnace

With winter weather on the way, many Idahoans wouldn’t think twice about turning up the heat. But for one veteran in Blackfoot, the simple act of staying warm had become a battle against a failing furnace — until a generous gift of a brand-new heating system brought tears to the stoic soldier’s eyes.

Vietnam War Veteran Frank Perry of Blackfoot lives with only 28% lung capacity, and temperature has a huge impact on his ability to breathe. But his ongoing battle with a nearly 40-year-old furnace hasn’t done him any favors.

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LDS Church reveals site and rendering for Coeur d’Alene Temple

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the location for the new Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, temple.

The new house of worship will be built on just under 11 acres, located at the corner of Hanley Avenue and Coeur Terre Boulevard. Current plans for the site call for a single-story temple encompassing approximately 29,000 square feet. The complex will also include an adjacent meetinghouse and a separate support building.

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“Soaking Wet” pilot on her doorstep: Blackfoot homeowner describes the moments after Sunday night’s plane crash

A Blackfoot woman received the shock of a lifetime Sunday night, after a soaking wet pilot emerged from the frigid Snake River and knocked on the door of her nearby home moments after his small plane crashed into the water. Bobette Brown, who initially mistook the crash sound for a car accident, says she was stunned when the injured man, soaking wet and shaken, appeared on her doorstep.

“We were sitting in the living room and heard the doorbell ring, and there stands a gentleman who is soaking wet,” Brown explained. “You can tell he’s kind of in shock, and he’s got some scratches on his face, and his hand is bleeding and… he’s very cold and shaken up.”

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How veterans' employment compares to the rest of the population

Veterans Day in Southeast Idaho: Honoring service while facing the reality of PTSD

With Veterans Day approaching, the southeast Idaho community takes time to honor the men and women who have served our country. However, with such honorable service also comes significant challenges.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, post-traumatic stress disorder is more common among veterans than civilians. About 7% of veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives. The condition is also more prevalent among female veterans than their male counterparts.

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Nuclear submarine USS Idaho hits the water, passes ‘Alpha’ Trials with flying colors

Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Idaho, has reached another major milestone toward joining the U.S. Navy Fleet. The sub, currently undergoing testing in Groton, Connecticut, has completed its initial or “alpha” sea trials with flying colors.

These alpha trials put the submarine through its paces, testing essential functions from maximum speed to critical safety systems, ensuring the Idaho is ready for complex real-world missions.

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Carrie Scheid posthumously named 2025 Cecil D. Andrus Volunteer of the Year

Idaho Falls community leader Carrie Scheid, who passed away late last month, is set to be posthumously honored with the 2025 Cecil D. Andrus Volunteer of the Year Award, one of the state’s highest distinctions for civic and philanthropic service. The Idaho Community Foundation is bestowing the honor in recognition of Scheid’s contributions and unwavering commitment to the Idaho Falls region and beyond.

“Carrie embodied the spirit of volunteerism that Governor Andrus championed—quiet, consistent, and profoundly effective,” said Steve Burns, President and CEO of The Idaho Community Foundation. “She didn’t just give her time; she gave her vision. Idaho is better because Carrie believed in the power of community.”

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ITD seeks public input on long-range transportation plan; Pocatello & Idaho Falls open houses start Mid-November

ITD’s Long-Range Transportation Plan will look at the needs of the transportation network out to 2050 and consider a variety of factors including growth, travel demands, land use, safety, economic development, system reliability and anticipated revenue.  

“This policy document looks at current conditions, existing plans and future trends in Idaho and lays the foundation for ITD to continue to deliver on our mission of safety, mobility and economic opportunity,” said Amy Schroeder, the division administrator for planning. “It’s not necessarily about identifying specific projects. It’s about determining, through data analysis and public input, the best strategy for investing in the transportation system given the variability of future revenue.”

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Bonneville County moves up early voting start for December Runoff

Bonneville County residents are set to head back to the polls sooner than expected as the upcoming runoff elections take shape. On Monday, the Bonneville County Election Office announced a change to the early voting schedule for the upcoming December runoff election.

Originally planned to start on November 17, early voting will now begin later this week on Thursday, November 13, to ensure voters have two full weeks to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.

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Plane removal from Snake River underway following Sunday crash; Pilot is safe after incident

Police and emergency responders are responding to the crash of what appears to be a single-engine plane into the Snake River near the Rose Road bridge in Blackfoot.

Witnesses at the scene reported seeing the plane partially submerged in the water below the bridge. Authorities have not yet released any information regarding the aircraft’s registration, flight number, or the condition of the pilot at this time.

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Local Elections at Crossroads: Idaho GOP plans push to end nonpartisan municipal elections

Roughly three-quarters of American cities hold non-partisan city council and mayoral elections, or, where candidates do not provide a political party affiliation beside their names on the ballot. But in Idaho, that could soon change.

Idaho Republican Party Chairwoman Dorothy Moon says the State GOP is actively pursuing legislation to end the state’s long-standing tradition of nonpartisan municipal elections, saying it’s time to put an “R” or “D” by candidates’ names.

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Dump Truck collision knocks out power in Idaho Falls neighborhood; 20 customers affected

Crews with Idaho Falls Power are responding to a power outage currently affecting 20 customers in the area bordered by Ray Street, Grace Avenue, and Lola Street following an incident involving a dump truck late Friday morning.

According to the energy provider, the truck collided with and knocked down a utility pole on Friday, November 7th, pulling down other poles, primary and secondary lines, as well as transformers in the area.

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Pocatello Regional Airport cancels upcoming flight on Sunday, November 9th due to FAA cuts

The Federal Aviation Administration’s plan to slash airline capacity is already affecting flights in Southeast Idaho.

As of this morning, Delta Airlines has informed Pocatello Regional Airport that Delta Flight 3702 has been canceled. This cancellation is a result of the FAA’s recent decision to reduce air capacity by 10% due to the ongoing government shutdown.

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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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LDS Church names Elder Gérald Caussé to Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The faith officially announced today that Elder Gérald Caussé, a 62-year-old native of Bordeaux, France, will be the newest apostle. He was called on November 6th.

“I’ve always had a testimony of Jesus Christ,” Elder Caussé said Thursday. “He’s always been in the center of my life. I know Jesus Christ lives. And I know He’s our Savior and Redeemer. What a wonderful thing it is to be a witness of Christ. That’s the best responsibility or stewardship we might have in our lives.”

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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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‘Operation Green Light’: Bannock County joins national effort to support veterans

If you’ve been in Pocatello this week, you may have noticed a change in lighting around town. The Bannock County courthouse is lit up in green as part of “Operation Green Light for Veterans,” a nationwide initiative running through Veterans Day next week.

“Veterans don’t always feel seen or appreciated. It’s important for them to know that we support them, always,” said Melissa Hartman, Bannock County Veterans Service Officer.

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Harwood Elementary closure extended through Thursday

Jefferson School District 251 has extended a school closure for Harwood Elementary, after a minor pipe break caused flooding earlier this week.

Although the pipe has been repaired, D251 says they’ll require additional time to ensure the building is safe and fully dry for students and staff. Harwood Elementary School will remain closed tomorrow, Thursday, November 6. Classes are scheduled to resume on Friday, November 7th.

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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 UTV Light Parade spots open Nov. 6th.

Get ready to light up the night! Registration for the Third Annual UTV Holiday Light Parade and Stones KIA Firework Show kicks off this Thursday, November 6th, at 8:00 a.m.
“It has been exciting to watch this event continue to grow each year,” said Mayor Rebecca Casper. “The UTV Holiday Light Parade is such a fun and unique way to celebrate the holidays together. And I deeply appreciate how this event benefits the Idaho Falls Community Food Basket at the time of year when their shelves become depleted. It’s this kind of community spirit that makes Idaho Falls so special. I encourage everyone to incorporate this night of lights, laughter and giving into their holiday celebrations.”

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AG Labrador secures win for Idaho homeowners trapped in predatory 40-year contracts

“Idaho families were tricked into signing contracts that locked them into 40-year obligations with massive penalties if they tried to use a different realtor,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Our lawsuit forced them to void every one of these predatory agreements and leave Idaho for five years, ensuring our families can sell their homes freely without fear of scams designed to exploit them.”

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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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Mayor Blad ousted as candidates Greg Cates & Mark Dahlquist head to runoff election

Pocatello is headed for a high-stakes mayoral runoff on December 2, 2025, guaranteeing that the city will have a new leader in 2026. The final tally from Bannock County confirmed that incumbent Mayor Brian Blad failed to secure a majority, or even a spot in the top two, effectively ending his current term.

Mark Dahlquist led the field, cruising to a first-place finish with 5,135 votes, representing a strong 40.21% of the total. He will face Greg Cates, who secured the second spot with 3,938 votes (30.83%).

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Scott Stufflebeam secures Blackfoot Mayoral Victory; Shoyo takes D55 Trustee post by a whisper

The official results are finalized for the Bingham County 2025 municipal elections, confirming a tight victory for Scott D. Stufflebeam, who narrowly secured the position of Blackfoot Mayor. Stufflebeam won with 55.59% of the local vote.

In a nail-biting contest for the Blackfoot School District 55 Trustee for Zone 1, Taryn J. Shoyo clinched the victory by a razor-thin margin, earning 85 votes to opponent Kevin Callahan’s 83.

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Two drivers walk away after crash in downtown Idaho Falls

Two drivers fortunately walked away without injury after a late-afternoon crash Tuesday at the intersection of Broadway and Park Avenue near the Celt in downtown Idaho Falls.

According to the Idaho Falls Police Department, the incident took place around 5:00 PM. Police say the first driver was traveling westbound on Broadway and attempted to turn left onto Park Avenue but failed to yield to oncoming traffic. The turning vehicle was struck by a car traveling in the opposite direction.

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Two lanes open on I-15 northbound as ITD works on Riverton Road Bridge

As engineers continue to assess the damage and necessary repairs on Riverton Road Bridge, the Idaho Department of Transportation has taken further steps to restore the flow of traffic along Interstate 15 near Blackfoot.

After a tanker truck crash late Thursday night, October 30th, that critically damaged a support pillar, ITD partially reopened the interstate to single-lane traffic underneath the bridge. Now, as of Tuesday, ITD has shifted lanes to provide travelers with two northbound lanes and one southbound lane, separated by a temporary median, spanning I-15 between Exit 89 and Exit 93.

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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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Rexburg Police nab suspected tagger who targeted 35+ local businesses in vandalism spree

After a multi-month tagging spree targeting local businesses, the Rexburg Police Department announced Tuesday morning, November 4th, that the suspected vandal is now in custody.

The alleged tagger was taken into custody on Monday, November 3rd, and has been charged with felony Malicious Injury to Property. The arrest concludes an investigation spanning the last three months, during which the tagger allegedly defaced more than an estimated 35 local businesses, causing significant damage and frustration to property owners.

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