Kern County's News Leader kget.com
Today's top stories:Two people needed to be rescued from Kern River at Hart ParkArrest made in mobile home fire that killed woman in OildaleSuspect arrested for homicide after body found in East Bakersfield apartmentAmid ICE raid in San Diego, person with BCHS FFA jacket seen in videoPresident Trump to hold tariff talks with Chinese leadershipTrump threatens California with "large scale fines" after transgender athlete competes in CIF championshipsFairfax Junior Baseball Club begins its seasonStudy: Coffee can help women keep healthy3 Rite Aid stories in Bakersfield to closeFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Kern County Sheriff's Office releases video of 2 incidents where deputies shot at suspects.Pedestrian killed by vehicle in south BakersfieldMan's body located is Isabella Lake after drowningSenate takes on President Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill"Suspect in custody after Colorado attack against Israel supportersWalk For Kids 5K raises money for Ronald McDonald HouseCA Democrats wrap up convention in Anaheim2 Rite Aid stores in Bakersfield to closeFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Brush fire burns in Frazier Park area Group of parents hold prayer vigil for 11-year-old seriously hurt after being struck by vehicleRobert Price: Domestic violence ends life of Bakersfield woman after graduation partyPatrick's Pantry to collect items next week for people in needCOVID-19 variant making its way through US, CaliforniaFederal courts rule on Trump tariffsFrontier High School student with serious medical condition graduatesHigh school student to travel to Africa to improve healthImmigration officials say 4-year-old with severe medical condition and her family are not due to be deportedFormer BCSD Superintendent Mark Luque lands new jobFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Brush fire slows down early morning traffic on southbound I-5Homicide investigation underway after deadly stabbing at Monterey St homeBoy on bike severely injured after being struck by vehicle in East Bakersfield4-year-old Bakersfield girl could die if she gets deported and misses life-saving treatmentsCalifornia could face annual multi-billion dollar deficits for years, report saysLawmakers weigh possibility of oil companies leaving CaliforniaMulti-sport athlete makes history for Kern Valley High SchoolFederal court strikes down most of President Trump's tariffsEx-deputy to take stand in sexual misconduct trialBakersfield College, Bakersfield CIty School District leaders unexpectedly leave rolesFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:2 people found shot to death in East BakersfieldNeighbors rattled after young couple found dead in Oildale apartmentFBI offers reward for information leading to arrest of 1999 Shafter murder suspectWind-driven fire near Meadows Field now under controlCA lawmakers call out Gov. Newsom over budget that would cut women's health servicesCity of Malibu to hire security company to patrol burn areas Bakersfield Museum of Art to debut latest exhibitionsKern High School District graduation ceremonies to beginBakersfield girl with life-threatening condition faces deportationMoving company data shows people are moving out of Bakersfield, but it's just one data pointFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Accused DUI driver said he was looking at GPS system before fatal crash near DelanoBakersfield high speed chase suspect allegedly tried to rob convenience store in Frazier Park before arrestSome safety systems were not working at time of San Diego plane crash: NTSBUkraine-Russia war continues as Trump bashes leaders of both countriesWorld War II veteran receives replacement high school ring Convicted former Arkansas police chief escapes prisonCalifornia legislators weigh multiple bills to boost housing constructionFairfax Junior Baseball Club is community effortFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Person wounded in Ming Ave shooting, shooter on the looseFirefighters continue progress on Jaw Fire, Democrat Fire containmentBluff Fire comes close to homes in NE BakersfieldKern Secret Witness offers reward for woman who has been missing for over a yearThousand Flags event at the Park at River Walk honors fallen soldiersMemorial Day remembrance ceremonies take place throughout Kern CountyBakersfield Fire Department credits dog for saving family from fireBakersfield city spray parks openFentanyl overdoses drop in Kern CountyFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Jaw Fire, largest wildfire in CA, burns in Kern County Man arrested for assault at downtown Bakersfield McDonald'sCoroner identifies motorcyclist killed in Hwy 43 crashOfficials urge caution during the '100 deadliest days' of the summerSix people killed in San Diego plane crashFormer deputy mayor of Los Angeles pleads guilty to making bomb threatCHP begins Memorial Day holiday Maximum Enforcement PeriodMore than 3 milliion drivers expected on the road during Memorial Day weekendBakersfield home prices rise ahead of busy home buying seasonThousand Flags event to take place at the Park at River WalkFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Two Israeli Embassy staffers killed in shooting in Washington DCMan arrested in Bakersfield allegedly in possession of cache of weaponsInmate at Kern Valley State Prison dies after attack by two other inmates: CDCRGang member stabbed 2 people then led officers on pursuit: court documentsJaw Fire at 60% containment, Firefighters continue work on containment of Democrat FireKern County Public Health encourages water safety for young childrenCounty and SEIU come to tentative agreement on new contractHouse of Representatives passes Trump budget billCentennial High School student awarded Mayor's TrophyBakersfield substitute teacher honored with Golden Apple awardFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Pursuit ends in crash that injured multiple people in OildaleMcFarland school district responds to alleged threat against school campusCoroner identifies pedestrian killed by driver in east BakersfieldRepublicans continue progress on budget billProtesters hold mock funeral procession urging Rep. Valadao to vote against health cutsPresident Trump announces Golden Dome defense systemCassie Ventura testifies in Sean 'Diddy' Combs trialLightning in a Bottle Festival begins Wednesday at Lake Buena VistaWonderful Company discussing housing development plans in ShafterBakersfield PD warns against 'courier' scams against elderlyWitness describes scene after Palm Springs fetility clinic bombingSouthern California state Senator cited for DUICorbin Burnes set for start against Dodgers at Dodger StadiumFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Democrat Fire burns 895 acres in Kern River near Upper Richbar Picnic AreaStandoff suspect arrested after allegedly starting fire at SW Bakersfield homeTrial begins for ex-KCSO deputy accused of sexual misconductPresident Trump goes to Capitol Hill to pitch his budget billPresident Trump says peace talks between Russia and Ukraine to begin 'immediately'Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial continues with testimony including physical abuseSan Diego Humane Society cares for young bear cubBakersfield Animal Care Center seeks short-term foster caregivers for dogsThousand Flags returns to the Park at River Walk this weekendFor more local stories, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Democrat Fire burns in Kern River Canyon, forces closure of Hwy 178Former President Biden diagnosed with prostate cancer2 killed in Mexican naval ship accident in New York CityTornadoes tear through MidwestSurvey shows parents increasingly concerned over their kids' mental health during summer breakSuspect killed in Palm Springs fertility clinic bombingLos Angeles barber shop plays 'Baby Shark' to keep homeless people awayFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Commencement ceremonies to take place at CSU BakersfieldCollege graduate overcomes surprising diagnosisCoroner identifies Taft woman killed in crashSouthern California authorities arrest Bakersfield robbery suspect after pursuitPeace Officers Memorial honors fallen law enforcementBattle of the Badges to take place tonightFinancial expert discusses tips for paying off student loans, budgeting Rick Bentley speaks with creator of 'Acoustic Rooster' on PBS KidsFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:More details revealed in EBT fraud case investigationNew crosswalk in place where 8-year-old boy was struck and killedHouchin Community Blood Bank blood drive going on today outside KGET studios in downtown BakersfieldGive Big Kern raises $1.7 million for area nonprofitsLaw enforcement memorial ceremonies take place in Bakersfield Thursday morningCSU Bakersfield commencement ceremonies take place FridayDisneyland readies to celebrate its 70th anniversaryUp to 20,000 people expected for Luke Bryan concert in ShafterFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Man killed in grisly Westside Parkway crash identified, had criminal historyMan accused of stabbing Tory Lanez in Tehachapi prison is convicted murderer: CDCRSEIU county workers announce they intend to strikeCounty faces major budget shortfallCALM unveils new habitat for its coyotesBakersfield teacher gets classroom surpriseMenendez brothers resentenced to 50 years to lifeSean 'Diddy' Combs trial continues WednesdayKern County law enforcement to hold events for Peace Officer Memorial DayMovie theater chain offers discounts for movies this summerFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Gov. Newsom urges California cities to clear homeless encampmentsBakersfield, Kern County working on clearing encampments2 teens identified by coroner in deadly Arvin shootingTory Lanez attacked in Tehachapi prisonLos Angeles police officers hurt in high speed chase crashMenendez brothers resentencing hearing to begin Tuesday morningSean 'Diddy' Combs trial beginsStocks soar on announcement of reduction of tariffs against ChinaPresident Trump arrives in Saudi Arabia for talksSchool districts urge against 'Chromebook challenge'For more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top storiesUS, China announce 90-day reduction for tariffs2 dead in Arvin shooting, 2 others woundedPedestrian killed in crash on East California AveCHP unveils specially marked patrol vehicles to combat unsafe drivingPope Leo XIV makes first Sunday address, calls for ceasefire in GazaBlessing Corner hosts annual Mother's Day celebration4 people rescued from Kern River on hot SaturdayBakersfield native Derek Carr retires from NFLFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:U.S.-born Cardinal Robert Prevost elected popeBakersfield residents react to election of first American Pope, Leo IVCA DOJ responds to Asm. Bains' questions over Zack Scrivner investigationPresident Trump announces trade deal with UKHouse passes bill to fully rename Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of AmericaCommunity outraged over video of dog being dumpedRick Bentley interviews cast of "Fight or Flight"For more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Cardinals begin 2nd day of papal conclaveAsm. Dr. Jasmeet Bains questions why no sex abuse charges filed against ScrivnerKern County Animal Services asks for help to identify person who dumped dog in a dumpsterFamilies forced out of their homes following Oildale standoffTransmission tower that may have started Eaton Fire removed for investigationPresident Trump says he'll 'take a look' into possible tariff exemptions for baby productsStory of the Bakersfield 3 in national focus in 3-part Investigation Discover programGas prices in California could eventaully reach $8 per gallon due to refinery closures: reportFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Conclave to select new pope begins TuesdayBakersfield police officer accused of explicit communications with teen girlExperts explain how parents can keep an eye on kids onlineLawmakers agree on provisions to anti-child sex trafficking billREAL ID enforcement begins todayUS Navy fighter jet falls from aircraft shipIndia fires missiles into PakistanPersonal hygiene drive benefiting families at The Open Door Network todayShoes for our Homeless shoe drive continues through May 12Kern County 'Teachers of the Year' honoredSix-figure incomes not enough to live in some California cities: reportFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Law enforcement engaged in standoff with barricaded person in OildaleWorker dies in construction site accident on Stockdale HighwayMan accused in deadly Westside Parkway collision due in court Tuesday afternoonMan accused in EBT thefts pleads no contestCanada's Prime Minister to visit White House TuesdayGov. Newsom says he wants to work with Trump to boost film productionNew program would pay migrants to "self-deport"Give Big Kern takes place TuesdayFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Man arrested in connection to deadly crash on Westside Parkway has lengthy criminal history2 people rescued following ATV crash in Cantil: Kern County FDMan arrested after standoff in TaftPresident Trump says deadline to sell TikTok may be extended againPresident Trump orders reopening of Alcatraz prisonGovernment begins collecting payments to federal student loansFirefighter celebrates final round of chemotherapy cancer treatmentConclave to elect new Pope begins this weekMicrosoft shuts down its Skype video, chat service todayREAL ID enforcement begins WednesdayFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Zach Scrivner case postponed after Thursday hearingPortion of I-5 temporarily shut down near Coalinga after semi-truck crash11 arrested during sex trafficking operation: Bakersfield PDKern County woman still missing after nearly a yearBakersfield man accused of impregnating 16-year-old girlLegislators continue debate on human trafficking billPresident Trump speaks to Univerity of Alabama graduatesMay Day marches take place across the countryRestored race cars on display in ShafterNew state-of-the art milk bottling plant opens in BakersfieldFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Skimming Scheme: Millions of dollars stolen from EBT recipientsMother sues Kern County over death of 3-year-oldFamilies of crime victims gather outside KGET studios for justice, peace, unityPresident Trump hails economic success in first 100 days; GDP report says otherwiseAnnual CSUB Barbecue takes place todayNew bike patrols begin soon along Kern River bike pathReport highlights roadblocks in completing California's High Speed Rail projectFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Mothers call for increased steet crossing safety in school areasCalifornia City councilmember indicted over mercury spill at car wash businessDenim Day brings solidarity for victims of sexual assaultHousing advocates rally in Sacramento for rent relief billExperts say product shipments arriving in US could plunge in weeksAmazon says it was not going to list tariffs on product pagesDerek Carr's turbulent offseasonEnd of Vietnam War has longlasting effects felt in Kern CountyShoes for our Homeless drive continues through May 7For more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Family of murder victim speaks out after killer in 2004 case is granted paroleFirst man convicted in Kern County Prop 36 case is sentencedProposed Bakersfield VA clinic clears another hurder toward constructionCanada elects prime minister, gives Liberals control of govermentMassive power outage hits SpainPresident Trump goes to Michigan as he marks 100 days in officeSelf-driving cars causing problems for Southern California city at nightStudy shows having a pet has the same effect as getting marriedKern County sees spike in Valley fever casesFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Kern Valley State Prison officer attacked by inmate previously convicted of murder: CDCRBakersfield PD honors K9 Jango killed during pursuit of suspect1 dead in Florida boat crash100 undocumented immigrants arrested at illegal nightclub in Colorado: officials11 killed after driver rams crowd at Filipino street festival in VancouverVatican prepares for upcoming conclaveUS working on Russia-Ukraine peace dealApproval ratings for President Trump drop‘Fix the Fish' Block Party in downtown Bakersfield aims to repair Trout's signResidents do their part to 'Keep Bakersfield Beautiful'For more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Protesters outside Rep. David Valadao's office urge him to not vote for cuts to healthcare programsAfter calling off proposal for sewer rate hike, City of Bakersfield needs to repair waste water treatment facilityCoroner identifies 5 family members killed in Edwards home fireBakersfield woman who tortured, murdered teen girl in 2004 granted paroleFuneral for Pope Francis to take place SaturdayUnleash Your Love fundraiser takes going on todayCalifornia now the 4th largest economy in the worldFamily presented with Purple Heart for World War I veteranFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:City of Bakersfield to rescind proposed sewer, water rate hikes911 hangup call prompted investigation leading to seizure of firearms in McFarlandStates sue Trump administration over tariffsMarkets react to possibility that tariffs against China may be easedBody of Pope Francis lies in state, worldwide mourners pay respects ahead of funeralAir quality report lists Bakersfield as one of the smoggiest cities in CaliforniaBakersfield Womens Business Conference takes place ThursdayShoes for the Homeless drive beginsPoultry and dairy shows to take place at Kern County FairHighland HS students create PSA against distracted drivingPG&E shows how drones are used for power equipment checksFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Tow truck driver dies while working on school bus17-year-old girl suspected of shooting California City police officer; suspect and officer hospitalizedJailhouse interview with man suspected in kidnapping of 10-year-old Taft girlVatican prepares for funeral of Pope FrancisFDA announces plan to phase out several food dyesUnleash Your Love fundraiser takes place this FridayCelebration of life for Don GaleyWasco Police Department celebrates first year of return to serviceFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Mourning continues around the world for Pope FrancisBakersfield Catholics remember Pope FrancisElk Grove man accused of kidnapping Taft girl appears in courtInvestigators say 2 fires at La Mirage motel are suspiciousKGET to host Crime Victims' Vigil on April 30Kern County runners participate in Boston MarathonFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Pope Francis dies at age 88La Mirage Motel on Union Avenue suffers major damage from fireKCSO busts meth conversion labDefense Secretary Pete Hegseth used Signal to discuss military pans a second time: reportBakersfield Marathon pre-registration ends April 27Wood from former Trout's bar turned into guitarsCalifornia property owners affected by Southern California wildfires sue insurance companiesFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Escaped killer Cesar Hernandez reportedly captured in MexicoDeputies shoot, kill man wanted for attempted murder at Bakersfield parkMan accused of kidnapping Taft girl appears in courtEmotions ran high during hearing in murder caseSuspect arrested after Florida State University mass shootingRick Bentley on "Sneaks"Poll shows former VP Kamala Harris would lead in California governor's raceThe Well Comedy Club gets downtown Bakersfield locationFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Proposal would hike City of Bakersfield water and sewer rates for residentsMan arrested nearly a year after deadly Bakersfield shootingBakersfield physician sanctioned after treatment led to patient's deathKCSO reveals more details in alleged kidnapping of young girlCalifornia sues Trump administration over tariffsMac and Cheese Festival returns this weekendShoplifting suspect that led to massive search, 'deputy-involved shooting,' to appear in courtFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Sen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez visit Bakersfield for 'Fighting Oligarchy' event with 2026 midterms in mindOutside event, President Trump supporters gather in opposition to 'Fighting Oligarchy' rallyKern County deputies open fire during pursuit of beer theft suspect2025 Remarkable Women make trip to HollywoodMeasles cases continue to rise across the USDefendant in murder case of Fresno State student will be tried as adultEBT theft and scam suspect due back in courtPre-registration for 2026 Bakersfield Marathon is openFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Sacramento County man arrested, accused of kidnapping Kern County girlReport details attack of Kern County sheriff's deputy2 more men accused in Kern County EBT theft schemeReward raised to $35,000 for information leading to capture of escaped killer Cesar Hernandez50 years later, evacuation of US Embassy in Vietnam still pains manyYawning too much? It could be a warning signNFL pros return to Bakersfield for football camp2026 election season begins with Democratic hopeful announcing campaign for Rep. David Valadao's seatSen. Bernie Sanders, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez set for Bakersfield rallyMagnitude 5.2 earthquake rattles Southern CaliforniaFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Markets continue to react to tariffsThe Fox Theater unveils latest honor for John EnriquezTuesday is the tax filing deadlineBakersfield police announce results of DUI checkpoint and related patrolsBlue Origin prepares to send all-female spacecrew on historic flightOverdose deaths are declining across the country, data showsBrown rice may not be healthier than white rice2 Bakersfield high schools to add FFA programsFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Neighbors describe what happened as a fire claimed 5 lives in EdwardsA helicopter crashes into Hudson River in New York CityCHP officers conduct enforcement operation along I-5 south of BakersfieldVeterans on Honor Flight 51 return to BakersfieldA special Easter egg hunt for kids with special needsRick Bentley: A preview of a new season of 'Dr. Who' Manhunt for escaped killer Cesar Hernandez escalates after Tijuana shootoutA look into Smith's Bakeries as it celebrates 80 years in BakersfieldFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Multiple people die in overnight at home in eastern Kern CountyKiller who escaped prison custody in Delano reportedly involved in shootout with Mexican authoritiesBakersfield City Council discusses proposal to develop massive industrial developmentVeterans on Honor Flight 51 visits war memorials in Washington D.C.Proposed California law would boost pay for educatorsTrump announces 90-day pause for most tariffsSmith's Bakeries celebrates anniversaryFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Arvin votes to hold special election to fill vacant seatReport on the scope of Border Patrol's Kern County operationMarkets, lawmakers react to tariffsHonor Flight 51 arrives in Washington DCBakersfield kids raise money for Make-a-WishFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:More tariffs against China expected to be put in placeExperts say there's no need to panic buy groceries as tariffs set to beginSome Kern County, Bakersfield food, housing assistance programs see cutsCA legislators debate another homelessness billMenendez brothers set for another hearing on possible resentencingDowntown Bakersfield welcomes new brewery, restaurantNew documentary examines 'Bakersfield 3' caseGarces Memorial HS student named state FFA officerFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:KCSO investigating shooting at Wible Road in BakersfieldInmate at Tehachapi prison dies, prompts investigation"Hands Off" protests take place in BakersfieldPresident Trump defends tariffs as markets fallIPhone update brings new emojiPeacock party at Hart ParkWomen in farming on the riseFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:Man accused of threatening Kern County Supervisor speaks with 17 NewsArvin PD employee faces criminal chargeApril is Valley Fever Awareness Month, county health officials renew calls for awarenessDeath toll rises from Southern California wildfiresPacks of coyotes concern Southern California neighborhoodHouchin Community Blood Bank offers upcoming festival tickets for blood donationsMarkets, lawmakers react to President Trump's tariffsFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Today's top stories:A paroled convicted child killer won't be let back into Kern CountyApril is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Kern CountyThe Bakersfield Police Department releases March crime reports statsFederal judge makes a ruling on whether water must be returned to the Kern River in BakersfieldHundreds sign petition for better traffic safety in school zones. The two Big Bear eaglets now have namesRodeo is coming to Bakersfield this weekendFor more local news, visit KGET.com.
Some of today's top storiesNow to an update on a story we brought you yesterday... A suspect is still on the run this morning... following a bizarre officer-involved shooting in northwest Bakersfield Monday night. A sheriff's deputy opened fire after allegedly being assaulted by a man who fled from a traffic stop. 17's Connor Dore reports.From our 17 follow up file. Kern County Sheriff's Office is searching for the gunman in an a deadly Oildale shooting. Investigators are looking for Luis Villachana in connection to the shooting that happened last Thursday on Olympic Drive near Highland elementary school. Deputies responding to the scene found a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. She later died. Homicide detectives are investigating, and have not arrested any suspects. Anyone with information is urged to call 861-3110 or Kern Secret Witness at 322-4040.CHP officers were on maximum enforcement over the Labor Day weekend. During the 72-hour holiday enforcement effort, which began Friday evening, CHP officers made more than 1,100 arrests for driving under the influence and issued more than 27,000 citations. More than 16,000 of those were for speeding. We are saddened to report a World War Two veteran and hard working member of our community has died. Joe Jackson Smith died last Monday at the age of 102.Joe Jackson Smith died last Monday at the age of 102. Smith grew up as the youngest of five on a family farm in Arkansas. During his service, he was one of the first RADAR operators... helping introduce the new technology to ships transporting troops across the North Atlantic and English Channel. Smith met his first wife, Jean Reader when he returned from the war. And they soon moved to Kern County to raise their two daughters. Smith and Jean were married 42 years before she died. He would go on to remarry twice--Birdie Barker, then Rose Jenkins--but he survived them both. Many will fondly remember him as their wedding officiant, a comfort in times of loss and a wise counseling voice. He's remembered as a witty cheerful man who would always show up for dessert--even if he missed the meal.
Some of today's top storiesWe begin with breaking news from overnight. KCSO deputies swarmed a Motel 6 in Northwest Bakersfield after reports of shots fired last night. This is video of the scene on Olive and Knudsen Drives. It happened just before 10. Eyewitness reports say a suspect was pulled over for a regular traffic stop...and allegedly pepper-sprayed a deputy... That's when a deputy started shooting. Those witnesses say three shots were fired. There are currently no reports of any injuries.. 17 News has confirmed the suspect is still on the run.Another downtown Bakersfield landmark is gone this morning. The "Toucan Building"...formerly the home of Thompson's Pet Land, was destroyed by a fire yesterday afternoon. And, the building that started out as a bus stop is just one of many vacant downtown buildings that have burned in the last several years. 17's Rob Hagan has more on the destruction that keeps growing.More than 2 months later, we have positive identification on a June 30th pedestrian fatality involving a train in Old Town Kern. And the victim, it turns out, was a beloved local character.17's Robert Price has the story.
Some of today's top storiesWe begin with news breaking overnight and a signature issue here at 17... that's pedestrian safety. A person is dead this morning after being hit by a car in south Bakersfield. It happened just after 11 last night. This is on White Lane and South Union Avenue. The victim's identity has not been released. No arrests have been made. We will update you on this story as more information becomes available.Now in your 17 Crime Watch. A man is behind bars this morning on suspicion of shooting and killing a person last month. Rodrigo Lara was arrested for the alleged murder. Officers were dispatched to the area of Lloyd and South Bliss Streets and found a person had been shot. The identity of the victim has not been released. Lara faces charges including: first degree murder, participating in a street gang, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He's due in court later this week.Authorities have identified the driver of a vehicle who was killed after crashing into a concrete wall in Lebec. According to CHP, 63-year-old Robin Scott Stears, of Frazier Park was the driver of a vehicle that collided with a concrete wall near the Lebec Transfer Station Friday morning on Landfill Road. He died at the scene. Authorities are investigating the cause and manner of death. If you have any information call the California Highway Patrol at 661-396-6600.a nationwide strike is underway in israel .. in an effort to pressure prime minister benjamin netanyahu to secure a deal for the remaining hostages being held by hamas. it comes after the israeli military recovered the bodies of 6 hostages ... they say were brutally killed by hamas in gaza. among the victims... an israeli-american from California. rachel menitoff from our sister station ktla has more on the reaction from the southland.
Some of today's top storiesNow to your 17 crime watch. And, new information this morning on a breaking news story we first brought you on 17 news at 5 yesterday. The Kern County Sheriff's Office confirming one person was killed and another wounded in a shooting in Oildale. The incident happened around 4:20 yesterday afternoon in the 2700 block of Olympic Drive near Highland Elementary School. KCSO says homicide detectives are still in the early stages of the investigation and could not say what happened prior to the shooting. However, we're told the surviving victim's wounds are minor. The incident triggered a huge law enforcement response with patrol vehicles seen lining the street. Investigators are still looking for the shooter or shooters.Bakersfield police are investigating a shooting that sent one person to the hospital. Officers were called to the 200 block of Chester Avenue near 2nd street, at 9:30 last night for shots fired. There, they found a male victim with a single gunshot wound, not considered life threatening. BPD says it does not have a suspect description at this time, adding officers are looking for other possible victims. Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call BPD at 327-7111.In your follow-up file this morning... It was a bullying incident, caught on camera, that has now gone viral on the internet. And this morning that victim will receive a special escort as he heads to school. 17's Mikhala Armstrong reports.New details this morning on the death of a local police sergeant. The City of Shafter says Moises {moses} Martinez died of an unknown medical emergency. City officials say there is no evidence of foul play or any suspects associated with Martinez's death, which happened early Wednesday morning at his Oildale home. Several agencies converged on the home to offer support to his family and co-workers. They then led a procession to the Kern County coroner's office. Shafter P-D is asking for privacy for Martinez's family as they navigate their way through this heartbreaking loss.
Some of today's top storiesThis morning... an exclusive update on former Kern County supervisor Zack Scrivner.It has been 128 days since shocking allegations were made that he sexually assaulted a child.He hasn't been charged -- but has remained quiet and his whereabouts have largely been unknown.We now know he's in town....he looks healthy....and he's back out in public. But, as 17's Jenny Huh reports, he doesn't want to talk about the allegations against him or the health reasons that prompted him to resign from office.This is still an ongoing investigation... But we've compiled all this information on our website, KGET dot com. Just scan the Q-R code on your screen for complete coverage of developments in the case, including the full press conference at the KCSO headquarters.A Shafter Police officer who passed away yesterday morning at his Oildale home, is being remembered as a hero. Sergeant Moises {Moses} Martinez was known as a man who served his department and community with "honor and distinction." 17's Mikhala Armstrong has more.We are saddened to report the passing of former Bakersfield news anchor and weatherman The weatherman-turned-newsman died Tuesday at his home in Morro Bay at the age of 76 after a battle with cancer. Rusty Shoop. Shoop started his TV career in his hometown of Eureka in the late 1970s and moved to Bakersfield in 1984 to work for KERO. Over the course of his career here, Shoop worked for all three Bakersfield stations that had daily newscasts, including the first morning show in the area, right here at KGET, from 1991 through the end of that decade. In 2007, he suffered a brain aneurysm, put his television career on hold and finished his novel in progress, Blood Harvest, about a fictitious murder-solving news anchorman. He and wife Diane eventually moved to the Central Coast, where he refined his guitar playing. Rusty Shoop leaves behind his wife Diane, three daughters, one son, nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Services will be a private family affair. Rest in Peace Rusty...you will be missed.17 News is your local election headquarters... With less than 70 days until Election Day, both the Harris-Walz and Trump-Vance campaigns are on the road in full-force. The Democratic ticket will have their first sit-down interview TONIGHT where they're expected to lay out their plan to voters. Meantime, Republican Nominee former President Donald Trump will be in battlegrounds Michigan and Wisconsin. NBC's Alice Barr is in washington this morning with the latest.
Some of today's top storiesTwo teenage boys are under arrest this morning - and facing charges in connection to the alleged bullying of another boy, while he was walking home from school.Video of the incident has been circulating online, with supporters of the victim holding a rally today at Golden Valley High School. 17's Mikhala Armstrong has the details. In your 17 court watch. Sheriff's investigators have resubmitted reports to prosecutors for a decision on whether former Delano police chief Mark DeRosia, will be charged with a crime. DeRosia was arrested in March on suspicion of contacting a minor for sex. Sheriff's officials say DeRosia, who was 68 at the time, contacted a detective in an online sting operation who was posing as a 15-year-old. Officials say their conversation turned sexual and a meeting was arranged. Derosia was arrested in March in the area of Olive and Knudsen drives. In June, prosecutors sent the case back to the sheriff's office for more investigation. The reports were resubmitted August 13 and are under review by the District Attorney's Office.Meantime... California lawmakers are in the final sprint to send their bills to the Governor's desk this week... where they may or may not be signed into law. Kern's lawmakers have had legislative success this year... Some of their bills signed were signed into law. Some even getting national media spotlight for their work, like Senator Shannon Grove's collaboration with celebrity Paris Hilton.. Senate Bill 1043. Meantime, Democratic Assemblywoman Dr. Jasmeet Bains is focused on her UC medical school bill, which awaits a Senate floor vote. Experts say the majority of bills must be passed through both houses by Sunday.
Some of today's top storiesState regulators paid a visit to Bakersfield yesterday, in the aftermath of a June oil spill that contaminated drinking water for dozens of businesses. Regulators examined various sites operated by local oil producer Griffin Resources LLC, which is responsible for that water contamination and is being sued by the City. 17's Jenny Huh reports.The Golden Empire is bracing for a round of layoffs following a major merger. California Resources Corporation announcing it's laying off 69 employees. The layoff notice was sent to county supervisors last Thursday. Those jobs are mostly at the senior level, as well as human resources, legal and engineering positions. An additional 49 employees have already voluntarily ended their employment. The company says this is all part of the reorganization and streamlining process after Aera Energy LLC was acquired by CRC almost two months ago. A notice sent to the county says employees will recieve pay for 60 days after getting the notice, and after that they can sign up for severance pay.17 News is your local election headquarters... The Harris and Trump campaigns return to the campaign trail as the fight for undecided voters heats up from coast to coast. Republican Vice Presidential nominee J-D Vance will be in Michigan, as surrogates for Harris stump across Wisconsin. That as the campaigns keep sparring over details for next month's presidential debate. Nbc's Alice Barr has the latest from washington.