KATU News
KATU Morning Minute | Grasshopper Fire prompts Level 3 - Go Now evacuation order in Wasco County
- Title
- KATU Morning Minute | Grasshopper Fire prompts Level 3 - Go Now evacuation order in Wasco County
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Some residents of Wasco County are under Level 3 - Go Now evacuation orders from the Grasshopper Fire burning in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The search for one of the Seattle shooters continues. Details: katu.com
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KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest and most divers...
- Title
- KATU @ 3:30: Wildfires burn 1M+ acres in Oregon, teen linked to Seattle shooting, & more
- Runtime
- 30:18
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this edition of KATU News at 3:30 p.m., we take an in-depth look at the wildfires which continue to grow across the state of Oregon, we have an update from Seattle authorities about the deadly shooting at a food event, two siblings are missing from the Bend area, Vancouver City Council meets on misdemeanor crime enforcement policies, Brian Kohberger wants another trial despite pleading guilty to killing four Idaho college students, and much more.
Catch up on all the day's top headlines here: https://katu.com/
#breakingnews #localnews #oregon #washington #shooting #wildfires #briankohberger #court #crime #fires #portland #oregonnews #katu
- Title
- Seattle officials update on Sunday's shooting near the Space Needle
- Runtime
- 36:52
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A mass shooting during the Bite of Seattle festival at Seattle Center on Sunday evening left three people dead and at least four others injured, including a 2-year-old boy, according to the Seattle police and fire departments.
Investigators said early reports indicate that two suspects exchanged gunfire outside the Seattle Center Armory and bystanders were caught in the crossfire.
In this Monday morning update, police said a 15-year-old suspect was detained. They believe the teen opened fire in the crowd. However, no formal arrests have been made.
Seattle city officials are holding a press conference to share the latest information on Sunday's shooting that left three people dead and several others injured. Details: https://bit.ly/4wjYmw1
- Title
- Vancouver police tell public 'don't hesitate' to report crimes after policy change
- Runtime
- 3:12
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Vancouver city officials, including the police chief, said they could have communicated the rollout of a new policy regarding misdemeanor offenses more effectively to both officers and the public to avoid confusion.
Last week, KATU reported that the city attorney's office issued a memo announcing it is "limiting the types of cases that can be cited into court."
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/vancouver-police-department-union-vancouver-police-officers-guild-misdemeanor-prosecution-cases-dismissed-lack-public-defender-shortage-city-council
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For more ...
- Title
- Level 3 evacuations force Wasco County residents out as Grasshopper Fire hits 15,000 acres
- Runtime
- 4:44
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The Grasshopper Fire continued to burn near Grasshopper Point in the Mount Hood National Forest on Monday, prompting Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for parts of Wasco County as firefighters worked to protect homes and slow the fire's spread.
As of Monday, the fire has grown to about 15,000 acres and remains 0% contained, according to local fire officials. Level 3 evacuation orders remain in effect for Sportsman Park, Pine Hollow and Wamic, while nearby communities remain under lower evacuation levels. A closure order also remains in place for parts of the Mount Hood National Forest.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/level-3-evacuations-wasco-county-grasshopper-fire-15000-acres-mount-hood-national-forest-sportsman-park-pine-hollow-wamic-rock-creek-reservoir
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- Title
- Vancouver, Wash. suspects accused of refusing sale to Black woman, threatening to tase her
- Runtime
- 2:31
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- According to the Vancouver Police Department, two men holding a yard sale allegedly told a Black woman she was not welcome because of her race after she stopped by to shop.
Police said the men then threatened her with a taser. Officers arrested both men on suspicion of malicious harassment (Washington's hate crime law), harassment and displaying a weapon. Police said the woman was not physically injured.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/vancouver-wash-suspects-accused-of-refusing-sale-to-black-woman-threatening-to-tase-her-oregon-portland-washington-southwest-state-candy-wallice-harassment-african-american-police-bias-crime-racial-victim-suspect
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Daily New...
- Title
- Evacuations, closures & smoke as Oregon wildfires grow; fire history lessons & evacuee shares story
- Runtime
- 7:01
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The potential for a severe wildfire season was high following Oregon’s unusually dry winter. Now, those impacts are becoming clear, with more than 1.3 million acres burned in Oregon, according to the state forestry department.
Wildfire crews across Central Oregon were working Monday to strengthen containment lines, protect structures and manage evacuations as multiple large fires continued to burn and impact travel and public access.
In this video we look at how has wildfire behavior over the years helped forecast these conditions: https://katu.com/news/local/what-oregon-wildfire-history-can-teach-us-about-todays-fire-season-lessons-science-weather-forecasting-community-local-firefighers-dry-winter
We also hear a firsthand experience from a family who was evacuated by the Akawa Fire near Sisters, Oregon: https://katu.com/news/local/sisters-resident-recounts-apocalyptic-scene-as-flames-neared-his-home-oregon-wildfire-season-fire-climate-change-gl...
- Title
- Shuttered Parkrose Grocery Outlet owner fund raising for new store in food desert
- Runtime
- 2:04
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The former owner of a now-shuttered Grocery Outlet in the Parkrose neighborhood is raising money to open a new, locally owned community grocery store in the East Portland food desert.
The grocery store at 10721 NE Sandy Blvd. closed at the end of June, marking the latest in a string of grocery store closures in East Portland.
MORE DETAILS: https://katu.com/news/local/shuttered-parkrose-grocery-outlet-owner-fund-raising-for-new-store-in-food-desert-east-portland-oregon-residents-business-local-low-income-equality-community
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For more information, visit ...
- Title
- Vancouver, Wash. suspects accused of refusing sale to Black woman, threatening to tase her
- Runtime
- 1:00
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- According to the Vancouver Police Department, two men holding a yard sale allegedly told a Black woman she was not welcome because of her race after she stopped by to shop.
Police said the men then threatened her with a taser. Officers arrested both men on suspicion of malicious harassment (Washington's hate crime law), harassment and displaying a weapon. Police said the woman was not physically injured.
Court records also show the defendants told investigators they believed the alleged victim had targeted them because they are white, and they denied that a taser was ever visible or involved in the confrontation.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/vancouver-wash-suspects-accused-of-refusing-sale-to-black-woman-threatening-to-tase-her-oregon-portland-washington-southwest-state-candy-wallice-harassment-african-american-police-bias-crime-racial-victim-suspect
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- Title
- 'Zero tariffs on American made cars' | Trump talks manufacturing in Michigan at GM proving grounds
- Runtime
- 1:25
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- President Donald Trump in Michigan Monday, speaking at the General Motors Proving Grounds in Milford, seeking to present a positive message on manufacturing.
FULL STORY: https://katu.com/news/nation-world/president-donald-trump-in-michigan-to-tout-manufacturing-record-at-gm-proving-grounds
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Daily News Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFtHM_AbvnEUkd_YRTlZpGKkbczT5w062
For more information, visit https://katu.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: newstips@katu.com
Call the Newsroom: 503.231.4222
KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sincl...
- Title
- LIVE UPDATE | 3 people involved in 'gunfight' at Bite of Seattle that killed 3, hurt 4, police say
- Runtime
- 12:04
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A mass shooting during the Bite of Seattle festival at Seattle Center on Sunday evening left three people dead and at least four others injured, including a 2-year-old boy, according to the Seattle police and fire departments.
Court documents released Monday afternoon show there were allegedly three people involved in a "gunfight" that erupted in the middle of the food festival, and one of them died at the scene.
In this press conference update with the mayor and police officials, we learn that one of those killed in the shootout was allegedly one of the shooters.
READ MORE: https://bit.ly/4xaBAqK
- Title
- Coalition of community leaders push to bring grocery store back to East Portland 'food desert'
- Runtime
- 26:02
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- The former owner of a now-shuttered Grocery Outlet in the Parkrose neighborhood is raising money to open a new, locally owned community grocery store in the East Portland food desert.
The grocery store at 10721 NE Sandy Blvd. closed at the end of June, marking the latest in a string of grocery store closures in East Portland.
"We weren't just a grocery store. We provided a lot of social services. We worked with the high school, with Prescott Elementary School, athletic teams, daycare camps, preschools, food banks. We provided not just fresh and affordable groceries but we did also a lot of social services," said Don McKeever, the store's former owner.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/shuttered-parkrose-grocery-outlet-owner-fund-raising-for-new-store-in-food-desert-east-portland-oregon-residents-business-local-low-income-equality-community
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- Title
- Central Oregon wildfire survivor recalls 'apocalyptic' escape from Akawa Butte Fire
- Runtime
- 23:20
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- When the Akawa Butte Fire exploded across Central Oregon, Rian Schermerhorn and his family made the difficult decision to evacuate their home near Sisters before the flames arrived.
In this extended interview, Schermerhorn shares the emotional story of preparing to lose everything, witnessing what he calls an "apocalyptic" wildfire event, and the overwhelming gratitude he feels after firefighters stopped the blaze just hundreds of yards from his neighborhood.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/sisters-resident-recounts-apocalyptic-scene-as-flames-neared-his-home-oregon-wildfire-season-fire-climate-change-global-warming-fire-mt-mount-hood-oregon-eastern-central-akawa-butte
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- Title
- Mayor Wilson: Teen detained in Bite of Seattle shooting that left 3 dead, more injured
- Runtime
- 0:59
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A mass shooting during the Bite of Seattle festival at Seattle Center on Sunday evening left three people dead and at least four others injured, including a 2-year-old boy, according to the Seattle police and fire departments.
In a Monday morning update, police said a 15-year-old suspect was detained and booked for first-degree assault and firearms violations. The mayor said no one has formally been arrested for investigation of homicide.
Court documents released Monday afternoon show there were allegedly three people involved in a "gunfight" that erupted in the middle of the food festival, and one of them died at the scene.
"Based on the evidence at the scene, investigators believe [the 15-year-old suspect] and one of the deceased engaged in a gunfight with at least one other unknown suspect."
The three victims who died in the shooting were identified as a 19-year-old man, a 44-year-old man, and a 56-year-old woman. It's currently un...
- Title
- Oregon wildfire season tops 1M acres burned as 34 large fires rage statewide
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Oregon wildfires have officially burned more than one million acres this wildfire season, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
As of Sunday afternoon, ODF said there are 34 active large fires in Oregon.
According to ODF public affairs officer Jessica Neujahr, the Akawa Butte Fire near sisters remains the top priority fire. That fire is burning around 27,222 acres with containment around 5%.
The biggest fire currently burning in Oregon is the Big Grass Fire southwest of Jordan Valley. Neujahr said it’s approximately 220,000 acres.
Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration for the 10th time today for the Second Flat Fire Sunday in Harney County, which has has burned around 77,000 acres.
https://katu.com/news/local/oregon-wildfire-season-tops-1-million-acres-burned-as-34-large-fires-rage-statewide-oregon-pacific-northwest-pnw-washington-canada-vancouver-bc-british-columbia-wildfire-smoke-hazard-nat...
- Title
- Mayor: 15-year-old detained in connection to Bite of Seattle shooting that killed 3, hurt 4 Sunday
- Runtime
- 6:35
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A mass shooting during the Bite of Seattle festival at Seattle Center on Sunday evening left three people dead and at least four others injured, including a 2-year-old boy, according to the Seattle police and fire departments.
Investigators said early reports indicate that two suspects exchanged gunfire outside the Seattle Center Armory and bystanders were caught in the crossfire. In a Monday morning update, police said a 15-year-old suspect was detained. They believe the teen opened fire in the crowd. However, no formal arrests have been made.
On Monday morning, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson spoke with the media, here's her full statement. We're tracking updates here: https://bit.ly/4xaBAqK
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- Title
- Oregon wildfire season tops 1M acres burned as 34 large fires rage statewide
- Runtime
- 3:24
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Oregon wildfires have officially burned more than one million acres this wildfire season, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
As of Sunday afternoon, ODF said there are 34 active large fires in Oregon.
According to ODF public affairs officer Jessica Neujahr, the Akawa Butte Fire near sisters remains the top priority fire. That fire is burning around 27,222 acres with containment around 5%.
The biggest fire currently burning in Oregon is the Big Grass Fire southwest of Jordan Valley. Neujahr said it’s approximately 220,000 acres.
Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration for the 10th time today for the Second Flat Fire Sunday in Harney County, which has has burned around 77,000 acres.
Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act three times on Saturday for the Shingle Fire in Grant and Wheeler Counties as well as the Beachcomb and Bench Fires in Jefferson County.
Neujahr said as fi...
- Title
- Three people are dead following a shooting in Seattle near the Space Needle
- Runtime
- 2:58
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In a late press conference Sunday, Seattle police said a mass shooting at Bite of Seattle in Seattle Center left three people dead and at least four others hurt, including a toddler.
One person is in custody, and police said they are searching for a possible second suspect involved. Police did not say how old the apprehended suspect was, just that they were a "young person."
The shooting was initially reported just after 6 p.m. Sunday, and large numbers of police and emergency crews began arriving in the area of Sue Bird Ct & Thomas St. The Seattle Center was evacuated as more police arrived.
The Seattle Police Department (SPD) said at 6:30 p.m., “Police are investigating a shooting. Multiple shooting victims. Shots fired at the Seattle Center. More information to come. Please avoid the area.”
The SPD said that they currently believe two people were shooting at each other, with attendees not appearing to be targeted.
...
- Title
- KATU Morning Minute | Over a million acres have burned as wildfires continue to grow across Oregon
- Runtime
- 1:02
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Over a million acres of Oregon have burned this wildfire season. The largest fire is burning in Malheur County and firefighters are stretched thin. Three people died yesterday in Seattle after a shooting at an event near the Space Needle. Details: katu.com
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Daily News Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFtHM_AbvnEUkd_YRTlZpGKkbczT5w062
For more information, visit https://katu.com/
Have a news tip? Send it directly to us:
Email us: newstips@katu.com
Call the Newsroom: 503.231.4222
KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, ...
- Title
- Split views on using public funds to renovate Moda Center at townhall
- Runtime
- 1:49
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Portlanders packed into Alberta Abbey on Saturday, July 25, for a town hall about a potential deal to renovate the Moda Center, as government leaders continue negotiating how to pay for upgrades to the home of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Councilors Dan Ryan and Elana Pirtle-Guiney held the joint town hall with City Administrator Raymond Lee from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Alberta Abbey, 126 Northeast Alberta Street. About 70 people attended.
The meeting came as a key decision on the arena’s future remains on hold after Multnomah County commissioners on Thursday delayed a vote on how much the county should commit toward a proposed arena renovation. The county is one of three government partners—along with the city of Portland and the state of Oregon—negotiating a funding package.
City and state leaders urged commissioners to move quickly, warning that delays could increase project costs and slow negotiations. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said pos...
- Title
- Some Central Oregon wildfires have been 100% contained. Which ones remain?
- Runtime
- 3:41
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Firefighters across Central Oregon faced another intense day Saturday as a red flag warning brought gusty winds and low relative humidity expected to fuel rapid fire spread and make blazes harder to control.
Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch reported at 10 a.m. July 25, 2026, that crews responded to 19 additional reported wildfires Friday while continuing suppression efforts on 50 existing fires that started over the prior two days.
Officials warned that additional fires may be identified in the coming days because lightning-struck trees and vegetation can smolder for several days without producing significant smoke.
LEARN MORE: https://katu.com/news/wildfire-season/lightning-and-dry-gusty-weather-drive-dozens-of-new-wildfires-across-central-oregon-oregon-portland-salem-redmond-sisters-oregon-cascades-forecast-weaher-wildfires-climate-change-global-warming-season
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KAT...
- Title
- Smoke from recycling center scrap fire prompts a 'stay-indoors' warning in Longview
- Runtime
- 2:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Firefighters in Longview spent Saturday battling a large scrap pile fire at a recycling center, with officials urging all businesses and residents nearby to stay indoors.
The large fire was reported at PNW Metals, a recycling center in Longview, Washington around 12:30 Saturday afternoon.
The Longview Fire Department and Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue responded to the site.
Residents and businesses in nearby neighborhoods were urged to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid breathing the smoke whenever possible, as crews worked to calm the fire.
People with respiratory conditions, asthma or other health concerns were advised to take extra precautions and remain inside until conditions improve.
LEARN MORE | https://katu.com/news/local/longview-fire-crews-battle-scrap-pile-blaze-at-pnw-metals-oregon-washington-southwest-smoke-hazards-indoors-crews-breaking-news-emergency-harmful-hazard
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S...
- Title
- Wildfire threat increases across central and eastern Oregon as 'Critical Risk' conditions arrive
- Runtime
- 7:00
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Saturday and Sunday will be particularly challenging for firefighters east of the Cascades, as weather conditions will be exceptionally favorable for rapid fire growth.
The Storm Prediction Center says nearly all of central and eastern Oregon is under a Critical Risk for wildfires because of the expected weather conditions. On Sunday, the Critical Risk area will shrink, but an Elevated Risk will remain.
Very low relative humidity, high temperatures and gusty winds will challenge firefighters battling existing blazes, and any new fires that start could spread quickly.
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect through later tonight.
One positive note is that no thunderstorms are in the forecast over the next four days.
West of the Cascades, significantly cooler air will move into the region, bringing mostly cloudy skies. High temperatures will top out in the upper 70s.
Along the Oregon and southwest Washington coast, ...
- Title
- WATCH: Gov. Kotek on Oregon wildfires after touring Akawa Butte fire in Deschutes County
- Runtime
- 29:46
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Firefighters face critical fire weather conditions as they work to contain dozens of wildfires burning across Oregon.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning through Saturday night for much of the central part of the state.
Officials say strong wind gusts, low relative humidity, and hot temperatures can cause fires to spread and grow quickly. The danger will decrease overnight as temps and wind speeds fall.
The nearly 27,300-acre Akawa Butte Fire burning on the Deschutes-Jefferson County line is now considered about 5% contained.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek toured the Akawa Butte Fire on Friday, and later spoke at a press conference about the fire at 1:45 p.m.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/wildfire-season/wildfires-in-oregon-red-flag-warning-for-much-of-central-state-governor-tina-kotek-tours-akawa-butte-rowe-hay-complex-brewer-box-springs-crosswhite-county
- Title
- Controversial proposed ban on hunting, fishing fails ballot bid
- Runtime
- 2:49
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Oregon voters will not decide the future of Initiative Petition 28 this November after the measure failed to gather enough valid signatures to qualify for the 2026 general election ballot.
The Oregon Secretary of State's Elections Division completed its signature verification process and determined the petition did not meet the threshold required to appear before voters. According to supporters, the campaign submitted just over 142,000 signatures. Earlier this month, state election officials said only about 104,000 signatures were determined to be valid — well below the number needed to reach the ballot.
IP-28 sought to significantly expand Oregon's animal cruelty laws. Supporters described it as an effort to better protect animals, while opponents argued it would have effectively banned hunting, fishing, livestock production, animal breeding and some forms of research.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/controversial-proposed-ban-on-hunting-fish...
- Title
- Central Oregon wildfires scorch 275,000 acres in two weeks as Red Flag warnings loom
- Runtime
- 5:46
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Wildfires in central Oregon continue to test containment efforts as extreme fire behavior fuels rapid growth and sparks new fires.
More than 275,000 acres have burned across Jefferson, Deschutes, Wheeler, and Crook counties in less than two weeks. Several fires are still less than 50% contained.
https://katu.com/news/local/central-oregon-wildfires-akawa-butte-brewer-fire-crosswhite-fire-scorch-275000-acres-in-two-weeks-as-red-flag-warnings-loom-oregon-state-fire-marshal-governor-tina-kotek
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Daily News Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFtHM_AbvnEUkd_YRTlZpGKkbczT5w062
For more information, visit https://katu.com/
Ha...
- Title
- Today on ARC PDX | Moda Center renovation talks this week, Vancouver Police memo & more
- Runtime
- 1:04:20
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- This Friday on ARC PDX, we’re going to take a look at all the developments through the week in the Moda Center renovation – from the Portland City Council’s actions to the Multnomah County Commissioners postponing a vote on how much they will pitch in for the project.
Wildfires are still raging across the Pacific Northwest – we speak with state experts on their efforts to contain the flames, and new hurdles that could arise amid a shakeup of the national wildfire agencies.
This week, our team has been diving into a new Vancouver Police policy to not make arrests for some low-level misdemeanors.
The president of Vancouver’s police union claims that they no longer have discretion to arrest or cite for certain crimes, while the city says it isn't true.
ARC PDX is talking with a criminal law professor at University of Washington who reviewed the Vancouver Police chief's internal memo and gave his independent opinion.
- Title
- Lawsuit argues Oregon's closed primary election system violates state constitution
- Runtime
- 2:27
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Oregon's closed primary election system is facing a constitutional challenge that could expand voting access to more than one million unaffiliated voters.
The lawsuit argues Oregon's law governing primary elections violates the state constitution by preventing many registered voters from participating in taxpayer-funded primary elections.
The lawsuit was filed by Clackamas County voter Mark Porter and the nonprofit Our Primary Voice against Secretary of State Tobias Read and the state of Oregon.
At the center of the case is a state law that generally limits participation in Democratic and Republican primary elections to voters registered with those parties.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/election/lawsuit-argues-oregon-closed-primary-election-system-violates-state-constitution-republican-democrat-politics-ballot-independent-voter-elections
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- Title
- What does the Portland Clean Energy Fund pay for? Inside one program funded by PCEF
- Runtime
- 2:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Portland leaders debate whether money from the Portland Clean Energy Fund, or PCEF, should be redirected to other priorities, KATU is taking a closer look at where those tax dollars are going today.
The fund, created through a tax on large corporate retailers, was designed to support climate and clean energy projects. The tax generated significantly more revenue than expected. But in recent weeks, some leaders have suggested using some of that money for other city needs, including renovating the Moda Center or hiring more police officers.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/what-does-the-portland-clean-energy-fund-pay-for-inside-one-program-funded-by-pcef-politics-money-programs-green-environment
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- Title
- Some Vancouver business owners fear citation limits could fuel repeat low-level crime
- Runtime
- 2:49
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Vancouver business owners say they are concerned a new police policy limiting citations for some misdemeanor offenses could leave them with fewer options to address repeat problems and make the city more attractive for low-level crime.
The policy comes after city officials said an unfunded Washington Supreme Court mandate limiting public defender caseloads, combined with local budget constraints, has left the city without enough public defenders to handle misdemeanor cases.
Jean-Pierre Parent, owner of Soma Kombucha in Vancouver, said he is frustrated by what he sees as larger budgeting issues behind the policy.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/vancouver-businesses-fear-misdemeanor-citation-limits-could-fuel-repeat-low-level-crime-washington-clark-county-investigation-police-local-community-business
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- Title
- Rural Oregon county passes resolution disavowing state's sanctuary law
- Runtime
- 6:07
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Douglas County's Board of Commissioners on Wednesday passed what appeared to be an impromptu resolution, which was not listed on the meeting agenda, declaring its alignment with the current federal administration, disavowing Oregon's sanctuary law and stating "the county's intention not to be a sanctuary jurisdiction."
The resolution was drafted by Commissioner Chris Boice and introduced following an agenda item listed as a "presentation" by Citizens Coalition, a conservative lobbying group.
The presentation, led by Abbie Malek, asked commissioners to support law enforcement in its efforts to stop illegal activity in the county.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/rural-oregon-county-passes-resolution-disavowing-states-sanctuary-law-douglas-county-trump-administration-immigrant-local-ice-violence-terror-community-sheriff
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- Title
- Oregon health expert discusses recent cyclospora infections, safety tips and more
- Runtime
- 6:54
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Two Oregon residents are confirmed to have contracted Cyclospora infections that may be connected to the now-infamous multistate foodborne illness outbreak that reportedly causes “explosive diarrhea.”
According to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), both people recently traveled to states tied to a nationwide recall of pre-shredded iceberg lettuce linked to the outbreak. Health officials are not releasing details about the two patients.
Public Health Veterinarian and Food Borne Disease Manager at the Oregon Health Authority, Emilio Debess, spoke with KATU News about the cyclospora outbreak, the overall threat level to the state, and what travelers need to know to protect themselves.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/2-oregon-residents-sickened-in-possible-link-to-nationwide-cyclospora-outbreak-diarrhea-lettuce-oha-health-authority-public-infection-local-community-taco-bell-parasite
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- Title
- Kenmore Air seaplane crashes near Sucia Island in Washington; all 11 aboard rescued
- Runtime
- 1:10
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Emergency crews responded Thursday after a Kenmore Air seaplane went down in the water near Sucia Island in San Juan County.
Kenmore Air said its de Havilland DHC-3 Otter, Flight 140, departed Lake Union in Seattle at about 4:30 p.m. Thursday en route to Roche Harbor on San Juan Island.
The aircraft was involved in an accident in Shallow Bay near Sucia Island at about 5:15 p.m., the airline said. The airline also confirmed there were 10 passengers and one pilot on board.
These viewer videos from Monica Scott and Dave Eastman show the crash and aftermath.
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- Title
- Wildfires rage across Oregon, prompt evacuations & smoke concerns; small plane crash in Washington
- Runtime
- 1:16
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- IN YOUR FRIDAY MORNING MINUTE:
Wildfires are burning across the state of Oregon, prompting evacuations and creating smoke concerns for some communities.
Also a small seaplane crashed outside Seattle, Washington.
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KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the...
- Title
- KATU @ 3:30: Wildfires across the state, Moda Center renovation update, Vancouver misdemeanor policy
- Runtime
- 1:32:57
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this edition of KATU News at 3:30 p.m., Multnomah County has postponed a vote on their plan for moving forward with the funding for the Moda Center renovations, several wildfires are growing across Oregon, we take a look at Vancouver, Washington's new policy for enforcing low-level misdemeanor crimes.
- Title
- Businesses step up as Akawa Butte Fire grows in central Oregon
- Runtime
- 5:11
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- As the Akawa Butte Fire continues to burn north of Sisters, businesses across central Oregon are balancing uncertainty with community support.
The wildfire has burned more than 26,000 acres and is 3% contained, according to the latest fire update. Firefighters continue working on the ground and from the air to strengthen control lines around the fire while facing dry conditions and changing winds. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office expanded evacuation orders Thursday as fire activity continued to threaten nearby communities.
The fire has already forced evacuations, prompted temporary business closures and displaced residents, while businesses outside the evacuation zones are opening their doors to help.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/black-butte-ranch-sisters-riverhouse-lodge-bend-akawa-butte-fire-grows-in-central-oregon-evacuations
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- Title
- Amid tension, Portland city councilors strike deal on police, fire and labor jobs
- Runtime
- 2:16
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- It took weeks of negotiations, some heated exchanges, and even the mayor breaking a tie for Portland city councilors to reach a deal to restore some of the budget cuts made just last month.
It comes in the form of an ordinance that brings back police and fire funding and restores some of the labor jobs.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/amid-tension-portland-budget-city-councilors-angelita-morillo-olivia-clark-steve-novick-moderates-progressives-strike-deal-on-police-fire-and-labor-jobs-mayor-keith-wilson
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For more information, visit https://katu.com/...
- Title
- Get an inside look at Division 1 basketball training with Portland State
- Runtime
- 2:55
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Training camp is where you create good chemistry and great habits. And for one day KATU's Guillermo Motta shows you what that looks like by training with the Portland State University men's basketball team.
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KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest and most diversified te...
- Title
- Multnomah County Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards interview on delay of vote on Moda Center funding
- Runtime
- 5:28
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A key decision on the future of the Moda Center is on hold after Multnomah County commissioners on Thursday delayed a vote on how much the county should commit toward a proposed arena renovation.
The county is one of three government partners, along with the city of Portland and the state of Oregon, negotiating a funding package for upgrades to the home of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards rejected the idea that a short delay would derail the project.
"I don't think it's going to throw off the entire process. I mean, frankly, the county commission could meet again tomorrow," she said.
She said commissioners should not move forward until they have enough information to make an informed decision.
FULL STORY: https://katu.com/news/local/multnomah-county-delays-moda-center-funding-vote-leaders-seek-information-commissioner-julia-brim-edwards-shannon-singleton-portland-keith-wilson-state-senator-kate-...
- Title
- ARC PDX | July 23, 2026 | Mult. Co. Commissioners vote to fund Moda Center renovations
- Runtime
- 1:06:25
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- ARC PDX | July 23, 2026 | Mult. Co. Commissioners vote to fund Moda Center renovations
- Title
- Multnomah County Commissioner Shannon Singleton interview on delay of vote on Moda Center funding
- Runtime
- 4:36
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A key decision on the future of the Moda Center is on hold after Multnomah County commissioners on Thursday delayed a vote on how much the county should commit toward a proposed arena renovation.
The county is one of three government partners, along with the city of Portland and the state of Oregon, negotiating a funding package for upgrades to the home of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Commissioner Shannon Singleton defends delaying the vote, saying she does not believe it will jeopardize the overall timeline because the Portland City Council is not scheduled to vote until Aug. 12.
FULL STORY: https://katu.com/news/local/multnomah-county-delays-moda-center-funding-vote-leaders-seek-information-commissioner-julia-brim-edwards-shannon-singleton-portland-keith-wilson-state-senator-kate-lieber-trail-blazers-nba
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- Title
- Proposal to create U.S. Wildland Fire Service divides Oregon Congressional lawmakers
- Runtime
- 2:41
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Oregon's congressional Democrats are raising concerns about a Trump Administration proposal to reorganize the nation's federal wildfire response, arguing it could weaken coordination between firefighting and land management even as supporters say it would better support firefighters and improve operations.
The proposal would create a standalone U.S. Wildland Fire Service by consolidating federal wildfire response into a single agency.
About 70% of the federal wildland firefighting workforce is housed within the U.S. Forest Service, and those firefighters have not yet been moved into the new agency.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/trump-proposal-to-create-us-wildland-fire-service-divides-oregon-lawmakers-trump-administration-usfs-wildfire-danger-safety-policy-politics
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- Title
- Expert weighs in on controversial Vancouver Police citation policy change
- Runtime
- 6:37
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A policy change at the Vancouver Police Department continues to spark debate after an internal memo obtained by KATU News outlined new procedures for handling multiple low-level offenses.
According to the memo, effective Friday, officers generally will refer certain misdemeanor cases to the Vancouver City Attorney's Office instead of issuing a physical citation through the TraCS system.
The city of Vancouver said the change was made to help public defenders catch up on cases because of an attorney shortage. According to the Washington State Office of Public Defense, public defender caseloads were limited beginning this year.
Because of the conflicting interpretations, KATU News sought the perspective of a criminal law expert. David M. N. Garavito, a criminal law professor at the University of Washington, provided his independent legal analysis of the memo.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/expert-weighs-in-on-controversial-vancouver-p...
- Title
- Multnomah County delays Moda Center funding vote as leaders seek more information
- Runtime
- 3:47
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A key decision on the future of the Moda Center is on hold after Multnomah County commissioners on Thursday delayed a vote on how much the county should commit toward a proposed arena renovation.
The county is one of three government partners, along with the city of Portland and the state of Oregon, negotiating a funding package for upgrades to the home of the Portland Trail Blazers.
City and state leaders urged commissioners to move quickly, warning that delays could increase project costs and slow negotiations.
MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/multnomah-county-delays-moda-center-funding-vote-leaders-seek-information-commissioner-julia-brim-edwards-shannon-singleton-portland-keith-wilson-state-senator-kate-lieber-trail-blazers-nba
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- Title
- UW law professor explains Vancouver Police's new low-level crime policy
- Runtime
- 15:28
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- What does Vancouver Police's new policy on low-level crimes actually mean?
In this extended interview, University of Washington criminal law professor David Michael Nolta Garavito breaks down the legal implications of a new Vancouver Police Department policy that changes how officers handle certain misdemeanor offenses.
The policy has sparked debate between the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Police Officers Guild, with questions about whether officers are being directed to scale back enforcement or simply process cases differently.
READ MORE: https://katu.com/news/local/vancouver-police-halts-arrests-for-some-misdemeanors-amid-public-defender-shortage-vancouver-oregon-washington-southwest-pacific-northwest-pnw-police-crime-law-lawyer-defense-state-city
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Sub...
- Title
- Multnomah County commissioners to vote on Moda Center funding proposal
- Runtime
- 4:39:35
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Multnomah County commissioners are set to vote Thursday on a resolution affirming the county's commitment to funding its portion of renovation work at Moda Center, as a debate has started about how much the county should contribute. https://bit.ly/4b3yZGs
The Portland Trail Blazers have said the team agreed to a framework funding proposal with the governor, county chair, and mayor for a $573 million public contribution. The state approved up to $365 million; Portland Mayor Keith Wilson proposed $120 million from the city, and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson proposed $88 million from the county.
The city is set to approve its term sheet outlining its investment on August 12.
The state funding is contingent on a “substantial” contribution from the city and county, though it’s unclear how the state may define substantial.
#politics #modacenter #nba #basketball #trailblazers #portlandfire #wnba #portlandnews #oregon #katu
- Title
- Corn on the Road: Corn-y semi crash spills ears across I-5 ramp near JBLM
- Runtime
- 0:41
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- A semi truck and trailer loaded with ears of corn crashed on an Interstate 5 exit ramp near Lakewood, Washington, according to state troopers: https://bit.ly/3TPvo8U
The semi driver was cited for second-degree negligent driving. No major injuries were reported.
(Live Drive coverage courtesy Mackin's Auto Body)
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- Title
- Lightning hits a tree in Hockinson, Washington, smoke and flames pour from the Douglas fir
- Runtime
- 0:50
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Thunderstorms moved through western Oregon and southwest Washington on July 23, 2026, bringing lots of lightning. One such lighting strike caused a Douglas fir to explode and catch fire. KATU viewer Tanya Oerding caught the aftermath of the blast.
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KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is o...
- Title
- KATU Morning Minute | Lightning sparks new fires across central Oregon after storms roll through
- Runtime
- 1:00
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Lightning started over 30 new fires in central Oregon on Wednesday. Multnomah County commissioners will vote today on a proposal to help fund the Moda Center renovations. Details: katu.com
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KATU is a OR based station and a ABC Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest and most diversified television broadcast...
- Title
- KATU @ 3:30: Oregon prison audit, Moda Center renovations, policing in Vancouver & more
- Runtime
- 2:24:32
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this edition of KATU News at 3:30 p.m., we look at the major decision Multnomah County commissioners will make tomorrow about the future of the Moda Center, a new audit of Oregon’s prison system found conditions at some corrections facilities put people in custody at risk, we check in on the wildfires burning across the Pacific Northwest, new changes will impact policing in Vancouver, and much more.
Catch up on all the day’s top headlines here: https://katu.com/
#live #breaking #localnews #breakingnews #oregon #wildfire #washington #vancouver #portland #poweroutage #crime #fire
