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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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Highland High School in Pocatello, ID

Highland High evacuates after false fire alarm; Incident linked to water pressure loss

Students and staff at Highland High School were forced to evacuate Wednesday afternoon after a blaring fire alarm interrupted classes, an incident that comes seven months after the school broke ground on its massive post-fire reconstruction.

According to Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 (D25), the evacuation was a precautionary measure made out of “an abundance of caution.” A preliminary investigation indicates the alarm system was triggered by a loss of pressure in the school’s water lines.

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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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Advanced nuclear technology company gifts Museum of Idaho $50K for educational programs

“After the groundbreaking for the very first Aurora powerhouse, the team celebrated by giving back to the community: a $50,000 donation to the Museum of Idaho to reflect our commitment and gratitude to Idaho Falls and its cultural institutions,” remarked Bonita Chester, Head of Communications and Media at Oklo. “We’re not just here to build essential infrastructure and deploy advanced nuclear technology. Our mission is to both enrich and improve the communities in which we operate. We couldn’t be more excited to be the newest members of the Idaho Falls community.”

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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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Big Game hunter kills charging grizzly bear in self-defense near Island Park

On the morning of Oct. 18, a big game hunter shot and killed a male grizzly bear in self-defense after it charged him from a short distance away while hunting in the North Antelope flats area of Island Park on the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

The hunter was hiking through thick timber when the grizzly came out of the brush, charging directly toward him. The man used the hunting rifle he was carrying to shoot the bear, killing it before contact was made.

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Nampa man arrested on felony child exploitation charges after swift multi-agency investigation

A Nampa man is now in custody, facing multiple felony charges related to the production and distribution of child pornography.

Tuesday, October 14, investigators with the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, along with officers from multiple local and federal law enforcement agencies, arrested 25-year-old Steven Vasquez of Nampa for alleged sexual exploitation of a child.

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Ex-NFL player Doug Martin struggled with mental health issues before OPD in-custody death: family

“Well, you know, it hasn’t been too long ago he was in rehab and out recently from that. And I think a lot of our hopes were that, you know, maybe some of the personal demons that he was facing was getting behind him,” said Nick Perkins.

Perkins also met Martin in Boise. He says he was a fun-loving, stand-up guy who was very involved with the community and who helped put Boise State on the map nationally for football.

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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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Idaho Falls leaf collection starts October 27th

The City of Idaho Falls Street and Sanitation Divisions will begin the annual leaf collection program on Monday, Oct. 27, with collection continuing through Friday, Nov. 21.

City residents are encouraged to rake their leaves—free of branches, sticks, and other debris—into the street along the curb at least one week before their scheduled collection date. Street Division crews will make one curbside collection to remove and haul away loose leaves. In some neighborhoods, crews may arrive a few days early to remove large piles using heavy equipment before beginning final cleanup with street sweepers.

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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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Local soup spot warms hearts with award-winning flavors

A street soup is being recognized for its award-winning flavors. Last month, they won best in gold for catering, best sandwiches & soups, and silver for their cookies in Greater Idaho Falls.

“It makes us really proud. We work really hard back here, too,” said Chef Libby Hercher. “We try to make everything fresh. We try to do our best. We put out the best product for everybody. We don’t cut corners around here; Everything is handmade. We work hard for it, so we put it out because we love doing it.”

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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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“Guarded by Predators”: From one voice to many: Women speak out on Idaho prison abuse

Editor’s note: The article discusses sexual assault.
In June 2024, Andrea Weiskircher thought her life was over. 

She was sobbing in a jail cell in Boise thinking about what she had just done. Encouraged by a former Idaho Department of Correction case manager, Weiskircher reluctantly filed complaints against the Idaho prison workers who had sexually abused her. It was the right thing to do. But now she faced another prison sentence and, she feared, retaliation for speaking up.

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Boo! It’s Science: ISU’s Haunted Science Laboratory returns October 25th

Now’s your chance to see the not-so-spooky side of science.

Idaho State University Department of Physics and Kiwanis Club of Pocatello’s Haunted Science Laboratory will be open to the public on Saturday, October 25, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Bannock County Event Center, Commercial Building B, just north of the Pocatello Downs Grandstand. The Haunted Science Lab features a Van DeGraaf generator, lasers, and multiple educational and interactive science activities designed to delight, fright, and educate kids of all ages. Some exhibits use the same principles as Disneyland’s Haunted Science Mansion, except they are explained.

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“Gaurded by Predators”: In Idaho women’s prisons, guards get away with sexual abuse and victims are blamed

Editor’s note: The article discusses sexual assault.

If they hadn’t met in prison, none of it would have happened like this. On the outside, Jamie Hamilton would have been polite to Derek Stettler, maybe have had “a conversation,” she’d later tell an investigator. It probably would have ended there. She would have avoided years of trauma. He might still be alive.

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Part 1: “Corporal Q”: The Idaho prison guard who preyed on women — and the system that hid his ‘predatory’ conduct

In January 2018, a woman imprisoned at South Idaho Correctional Institution outside Boise was taken to a medical clinic to get abnormal cervical tissue removed. A guard named Ricardo Quiroz — known among inmates as “Corporal Q” — was her only escort, and he let her sit up front in a white van.

Afterward, still in pain and bleeding from the procedure, she and Quiroz walked back to the van. This time, she tells InvestigateWest, Quiroz told her to go all the way to the back. She complied. He followed her, telling her to take off her pants, says the woman, who asked to be referred to by her middle name, Lynn.

“There’s certain times where you fight, and there’s certain times that you don’t, and when you’re an inmate …,” Lynn trails off.

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UPDATE: Rexburg railroad crossing fixed, technicians checking other sites

A malfunctioning railroad crossing at the intersection of 7th Street and Yellowstone Hwy has brought traffic to a standstill in Rexburg.

The Rexburg Police Department has confirmed that officers are currently on the scene, and railroad technicians are en route. Drivers are being directed to take alternate routes and completely avoid the intersection until the issue is resolved.

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Teton Auto Group’s Mario Hernandez nominated for prestigious TIME Dealer of the Year Award

Idaho Falls business leader Mario Hernandez, dealer principal of Teton Toyota and founder of Teton Auto Group, has been nominated for the 2026 TIME Dealer of the Year Award, one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious and highly coveted honors.

“When a customer notices not just the service, but the way our people treat others—and wants to model it in their own business—that’s when you know the culture is working,” Hernandez said. “What we’re doing goes beyond selling cars. We’re shaping how people feel about this industry.”

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California Sheriff’s Lieutenant killed in Idaho hunting accident, fundraiser launched for family

In the wake of the shooting, the Riverside Sheriff’s Association has shared a Help A Hero fundraiser on behalf of Kass’s family. As of Thursday, the fundraiser has raised $11,590 of its $80,000 goal.

The fundraiser states, “He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and loyal friend. Nathan’s character as a protector and mentor strengthened his impact on the many walks of life he encountered.”

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Mountain Home leaders clarify details on Qatar Emiri Air Force training facility

Mountain Home city officials held a press conference Tuesday to address questions about last week’s announcement of a new Qatar Emiri Air Force training facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base.

The U.S. Defense Department announced the establishment of the facility Friday, with Qatar expected to bring 12 jets to Mountain Home under a partnership similar to the existing arrangement with the Singaporean Air Force.

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Honoring History: Brady Chapel to host Veterans Day Open House

“The Brady Chapel has been a part of the Pocatello community for over a century,” said Jim Anglesey, City of Pocatello Long-Range Planner and staff liaison to the HPC. “The open house provides an opportunity for the community to come and celebrate Pocatello’s history, learn more about the Chapel’s significance, and find out what current efforts are being undertaken to preserve this historic edifice.”

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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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Judge Finds Probable Cause: Island Park Voter Fraud Case advances, preliminary hearings for other defendants set for late October

A voter fraud case against Chad Vanderbeek will proceed after a judge ruled today that the prosecution met the burden of proof for probable cause.

Vanderbeek is one of eleven defendants accused of illegally voting in the 2023 Fremont County municipal election by allegedly using an Island Park address. Judge Eddings announced his ruling in a near-empty courtroom, with at least two seats filled by Vanderbeek’s visibly disappointed family.

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Your Health Idaho’s Open Enrollment begins: Insurance premiums set to double for 117,000 as tax credits near expiration

Today, Idaho became the first state in the nation to open Enrollment for 2026 health insurance, but the period is marked by uncertainty due to the potential expiration of Biden-era health insurance tax credits. If Congress does not act before the end of the year, an estimated 117,000 Idahoans who use marketplace plans could see their insurance premiums more than doubled, according to independent researchers.

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Madisonhealth to sell stake in Carriage Cove rehab facility

Madisonhealth has announced its intent to sell its interest in the joint venture of Madison Carriage Cove, a short-stay rehabilitation facility it has co-owned for the past 12 years.

The local community healthcare system is stepping away from direct ownership, but has legally stipulated that the facility must continue to serve the same patient population for a minimum of 10 additional years, ensuring local continuity of care.

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EconoLodge standoff suspect postpones plea agreement

Flores is accused of shooting at Idaho Falls police officers during a standoff at the EconoLodge Motel on Broadway Avenue in Idaho Falls in April 2024. No officers were hit during the incident. They did return fire, injuring Flores.

He was expected to change his plea to guilty today; however. Flores has asked for more time to discuss the details of the plea agreement with his attorney. A status hearing has been scheduled for November 18.

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“A tragic nightmare”: Devastating hunting accident claims life of young Blackfoot woman

A 21-year-old woman from Blackfoot, Kaylanee Orr, tragically died on October 10 following a fatal accident during a hunting trip with relatives.

Fremont County Sheriff Bart Quayle described the situation as “the most tragic nightmare this family (or any family) can imagine.” In a statement sent to Local News 8, Quayle confirmed that emergency personnel and investigators responded swiftly and worked on the scene for several hours.

“Every indication leads us to believe this was a traumatic accident that has devastated this poor family,” Quayle said. “While we perform our due diligence, pursuing the truth and facts, we’re mindful of the extreme grief this family feels.”

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Idaho Falls Standoff Update: Convicted Felon triggers SWAT standoff after pointing replica gun at Police

The Idaho Falls Police Department has released new details regarding a tense, hours-long standoff that unfolded last night, October 13, at an apartment complex near the intersection of Lomax Street and Wabash Avenue.

Police took 56-year-old Wendy Burke of Idaho Falls into custody following the incident. Burke was arrested on two outstanding warrants out of Bingham County—one felony and one misdemeanor—as well as additional charges including Assault on Certain Personnel, Resisting and Obstructing Officers, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

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Five people recovering after crash near Lowe’s in Idaho Falls

Five people are recovering tonight after a crash early Tuesday morning in front of Lowe’s on 17th Street in Idaho Falls.

According to the Idaho Falls Police Department, the crash happened around 8:13 a.m. and involved a grey Ford Expedition traveling west in the inside lane. The SUV was carrying an adult and four children.

At the same time, a white truck was also heading west in the outside lane. Witnesses say the truck suddenly swerved across traffic to attempt a U-turn in order to assist a motorist with a broken-down vehicle.

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A New Era Begins: Former Utah Supreme Court Justice Dallin H. Oaks named President of LDS Church

Today at 1 PM, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is set to host a live broadcast, announcing the reorganization of a new First Presidency – the governing body of the faith made up of the President and two Apostles of the faith who serve as counselors. The announcement comes more than two weeks after the passing of the faith’s 17th President, Russel M. Nelson. He was 101 years old.

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Standoff ends peacefully: Idaho Falls woman in custody after SWAT response

Idaho Falls Police Department (IFPD) is on scene for an active situation near the corner of Lomax Street and Wabash Avenue. Residents in several nearby homes have been evacuated.

Both streets are currently blocked – Lomax Street from N Freeman to Fanning, and Wabash from Gladstone to 1st Street- for the safety of the public and to give officers the space to work. Residents in nearby homes who have not been evacuated are being directed to shelter in place unless told otherwise by officers on scene. IFPD is directing all other members of the Idaho Falls Community to avoid the area.

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Jackson Hole teacher Michelle Roundy named 2026 Wyoming Teacher of the Year

“I am deeply humbled and honored to represent Wyoming as the 2026 Wyoming Teacher of the Year, an opportunity to serve the students and educators of Wyoming in a new capacity,” says Roundy. “Many dedicated educators have supported my journey and modeled the importance of servant leadership for me. It is my wish that I can fill this role in a way that honors them.”

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The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho Launches “Foster the Arts” Program

“Foster families play such a vital role in our community,” said Amy Thompson, Development Director at TAM and former foster parent. Thompson’s family provided foster care for six years, ultimately adopting one of their children through the foster system.

“They are helping children heal, grow, and find their footing again—and we believe art can be an important part of that process. We’re honored to create a space where families can connect, create, and find joy together through art.”

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Stronger than Steel – Israel Garcia’s amazing recovery after being crushed by 900lbs of metal

Israel and Sariah Garcia’s love story began like any other, until tragedy struck just two weeks after their engagement. While moving steel beams at BYU-Idaho, Israel was critically injured when a stack of approximately 900 pounds of steel collapsed onto his head. Rushed to the hospital, he showed no signs of brain activity, and doctors gave little hope for survival. “I was very confident that he wasn’t going to make it,” Sariah recalled.”I just remember, sitting there thinking, like, it was perfect this morning. This can’t be real.”

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“It’s hard to say goodbye”: Idaho Falls water tower tribute block party

“For nearly nine decades, the water tower has served our community and stood as a familiar part of Idaho Falls’ skyline,” said Mayor Rebecca Casper. “While it’s hard to say goodbye to something so familiar, building a new tower was an important step to protect public safety and prepare for the city’s future. This celebration is a chance to honor our history while embracing what’s ahead.”

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Runaway teen located safe

The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office is urgently appealing to the public for help in locating a missing and endangered runaway juvenile, Breklyn Stoltz. The 15-year-old left his home yesterday morning and has since sent messages indicating he is not coming home and may harm himself.

BCSO confirmed that Breklyn Stoltz was last seen yesterday morning, Thursday, October 9th, near his home on Cordell St. He was reportedly heading toward school but never arrived. Breklyn then contacted his home this morning and made statements to his family suggesting self-harm.

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Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter helps open Utah’s first Black-owned bank

It is legendary: the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. helping break ground on not only Utah’s first Black-owned bank, but the first Black-owned bank to open in the western U.S.

Redemption Bank is the only Black bank in the history of the country that’s not physically located within an economically underserved community, and it’s also currently the only one located in the Black-banking desert that stretches from California to Texas.

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