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Thief steals rental truck with gear for state speech and debate tournament

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:29:12 -0700

A thief in Newark made off with a rental truck full of equipment for a high school speech and debate tournament in Union City that draws over a thousand students from across the state.

"It's just emotional exhaustion, the what-ifs: if I had just placed it here, if I had checked on it then," Mikendra McCoy, president of the California High School Speech Association said.

Rental truck with gear stolen from Newark hotel

McCoy, who traveled from Carlsbad (San Diego County) said a U-Haul truck filled with gear was stolen from her hotel in Newark either late Wednesday night or early Thursday, just as students and organizers were preparing for a speech and debate tournament being held this weekend at James Logan High School in Union City.

Staff at the volunteer group moved quickly to buy replacement gear from Target and Amazon.

"I mean, instantaneously you do the things right, you jump into action and find a way to fix it because you have students depending on us, and this tournament is too important to let the excellence of what we do be hindered by the choices of one," McCoy said.

Newark police documented the theft of the 20-foot truck from the Residence Inn.

Inside the truck was $10,000 in equipment for the tournament, which draws 1,500 students. The stolen items included technical equipment, risers, printers, signs, even 500 "Cali the Cado" mascot stuffies.

But also taken were donated business wear and ties for students unable to bring the professional clothing that they need to deliver their speeches in front of judges.

"They have a clothing emergency at the tournament, or maybe they get here, and they go, 'Oh gosh, my best that I was able to get, isn't quite as good as everybody else," tournament director Angelique Ronald said. "We have new and gently used beautiful clothes that they can just take."

Truck found empty

Alameda County sheriff's deputies found the truck abandoned and empty at an apartment complex near Hayward. A lock was found broken.

"Then I said, 'Is there anything in the truck, can you just tell me if anything's in the truck?'" McCoy said. "And he said, 'Ma'am, I'm sorry, you'd be disappointed, there's nothing.'"

Noah Martinez, captain of the speech and debate team at James Logan High, had this message for whoever stole the truck.

"You always have to think about who's on the other end of the stuff you're doing, because, you know, you stole a van, and it really affects the entire speech and debate community in California," Martinez said.

Henry Lee is a KTVU crime reporter. E-mail Henry at Henry.Lee@fox.com and follow him on X @henrykleeKTVU and www.facebook.com/henrykleefan

Fatal Chinatown crash leads to arrest of elderly driver

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:09:08 -0700

A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and speeding following a crash in San Francisco’s Chinatown that killed a man working in the area.

Zhuo Ming Lu, 76, is accused in the March 27 crash that left 49-year-old Cutberto Zamora-Martinez, of San Joaquin County, dead.

Suspect was trying to park

Authorities said Lu was attempting to park near Grant Avenue and Jackson Street when his vehicle jumped the sidewalk and crashed into the landmark New Lung Ting Café, also known as the Pork Chop House. The vehicle also struck two pedestrians, including Zamora-Martinez.

Zamora-Martinez died from his injuries.

He had been working in the area, according to a GoFundMe page. A San Francisco Police Department source close to the investigation told KTVU the victims were carpet installers arriving for work.

The fundraising page described Zamora-Martinez as a husband and father who was the sole provider for his family and "a humble man who wanted the best for his family."

Before his arrest, Lu had been cooperating with investigators. Authorities have not confirmed what caused the crash.

Some residents questioned whether the driver’s age or a possible confusion between the brake and gas pedals may have been factors.

"Maybe if people hit a certain age, you got to get retested for your driver’s license is something I was thinking about," said Keith Hong, who works next door to the crash site.

Another case involving an elderly driver

In an unrelated case, Mary Fong Lau, 80, was sentenced to probation after killing a family of four, two parents and their young children. in March 2024. Authorities said Lau struck the victims as they waited at a Muni stop on their way to the zoo.

Lau pleaded no contest to four felony counts of vehicular manslaughter, and a judge accepted the plea. A Superior Court judge cited her age, remorse and lack of criminal history in the sentencing decision.

She was placed on probation for two years, banned from driving for three years and ordered to complete 200 hours of community service.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk rides closed due to power outage

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:27:37 -0700

The rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk were closed for the remainder of Friday after a power outage.

Widespread outage

The Boardwalk's website posted a notice that said the rides are closed. A widespread power outage had impacted the area.

Rides started shutting down some time before 4 p.m.

TV-station KSBW reported at its height, nearly 19,000 PG&E customers were without power. The utility told the station the outage was linked to a Santa Cruz substation. KTVU reached out to the utility for more information.

A Boardwalk spokesperson told KTVU that since the power went out close to their scheduled closing time, they decided to close the rides and outdoor attractions.

Power has since been restored and indoor arcade games and miniature golf are open.

A photographer posted a video on social media from the X account: @NativeSantaCruz just before 4 p.m. He said people were being evacuated from rides. His video shows some people still on the rides, but none were in operation.

This interruption happened on the same day a section of the 100-year-old wharf is hosting its soft opening after a two-year closure for reconstruction. The wharf's south end had collapsed during winter storms in 2024.

The Boardwalk spokesperson said operations should be back to normal on Saturday.

Indigenous remains found at UC Berkeley construction site

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:38:10 -0700

Skeletal remains discovered Wednesday at a University of California, Berkeley construction site belong to an Indigenous person, university officials confirmed.

The remains were found at an undisclosed campus-owned construction site, according to the university’s Strategic Communications team.

Coroner investigation

Following the discovery, the Alameda County Coroner’s Office conducted an investigation to determine the origin of the remains.

"The Alameda County Coroner's Office determined the remains were likely historical Native American remains, and not connected to any crime," the university said in a statement.

The university’s Governmental and Community Relations office, which manages issues regarding Indigenous remains, is now coordinating with the California Native American Heritage Commission to ensure respectful and appropriate next steps.

Man charged in John Beam killing found mentally incompetent for trial: judge

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:30:00 -0700

An Alameda County Superior Court Judge has found the man accused of fatally shooting beloved Oakland football coach John Beam mentally incompetent to stand trial on a murder charge, KTVU has confirmed.

Case remains suspended

Coach Beam, 66, who spent more than two decades leading Laney College's football program after earlier coaching at Skyline High School, was shot and wounded on the Laney College campus at the Field House on Nov. 13. He would later die from his wounds.

The judge cited psychiatric evaluations of the suspect, Cedric Irving Jr., 27, in his decision to side with the Alameda County public defenders.

The criminal case was suspended in January pending Irving's psychological evaluation. The case remains suspended.

The suspect claimed he had killed Coach Beam because of "witchcraft" and that Beam was, "haunting his dreams and messing with his body." However, prosecutors argued his ability to coordinate a legal firearm transaction suggested "preplanning and competence" rather than mental instability.

Investigators said Irving had legally obtained a .22-caliber Walther handgun that was used in the killing. Court documents show he visited Elite Armory in Castro Valley on Oct. 15 to begin the legal transfer process.

A background check of Irving, by the California Department of Justice, showed he had no prior criminal history.

Remembering Coach Beam

Beam, who would serve as the longtime athletic director at Laney College, touched many throughout the community. He was remembered as a trusted mentor to generations of young athletes.

SF Department of Public Health confirms first clade I mpox case

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:20:25 -0700

The San Francisco Department of Public Health on Tuesday confirmed the first case of clade 1 mpox in a city resident.

The case occurred in an unvaccinated adult who has been hospitalized and whose condition is improving. The person reported they had been in close contact with someone who had traveled internationally.

"SFDPH is closely monitoring mpox. While clade I mpox cases remain rare in the United States, clade II mpox cases continue to occur in San Francisco and throughout California," San Francisco Health Officer Dr. Susan Philip said in a press release. "This development reminds us just how important it is to be fully vaccinated against mpox if you are at risk. With summer travel and events quickly approaching, now is a great time to seek the mpox vaccine."

SFDPH, in a release announcing the case, stated the current exposure risk is low for individuals who are not in higher-risk groups.

The department encourages anyone at risk of contracting the virus to receive both doses of the mpox vaccine, which protects against clade I and clade II, which are different strains.

The vaccine is available through healthcare providers and local pharmacies. Residents who are uninsured or have difficulty accessing care can visit locations listed at sf.gov/mpox.

The vaccine is safe for the immunocompromised, including those living with HIV and people taking immune-suppressing medications. People can receive their second dose if it’s been at least 28 days since their first dose. There is no need to restart the two-dose series if it’s been over 28 days since the first dose.

The 2022 mpox outbreak in the United States and California was caused by clade II mpox. In the United States, both strains are spread primarily through close skin-to-skin contact, including during sexual activity.

Both strains cause similar symptoms, which may represent as a flu: fever, swollen lymph nodes, or fatigue. Following that, a rash that looks like pimples or blisters.

Anyone with a rash that looks like mpox should contact their healthcare provider to get tested, talk to their partners, and take steps to prevent the spread of infection.

Anyone is susceptible to mpox, but most reported cases in the United States are among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, as well as transgender persons who have sex with men.

Reported cases in the United States are rare, and public health officials are monitoring to determine if clade I mpox is more severe than clade II.

San Francisco I-80 weekend closure starts tonight: What to expect

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:32:28 -0700

San Francisco is bracing for what officials warn could be the worst traffic congestion the city has seen in decades as a major section of the Bayshore Freeway prepares to shut down for the entire weekend.

Starting Friday at 11 p.m., the eastbound side of Interstate 80 will close between 17th and Fourth streets. The closure, which lasts until 6 a.m. Monday will prevent motorists from traveling eastbound across the Bay Bridge via the standard route.

Crews are scheduled to perform rehabilitation work on the 71-year-old Central and Bayshore Freeway viaducts. According to Caltrans, the project involves replacing bridge joints and repairing the road surface.

A main artery temporarily severed

The shutdown includes the southbound and northbound connector ramps between U.S. Highway 101 and eastbound I-80. Caltrans officials are urging the public to plan ahead, suggesting that weekend traffic could mirror or exceed the gridlock typically seen during weekday rush hours.

"That's the main artery area for many folks that leads up to the Bay Bridge," said Pedro Quintana, Caltrans public affairs manager.

The Bay Bridge, known as the "workhorse" of bridges, carries upward of 270,000 motorists daily. With the annual Cherry Blossom Festival expected to draw large crowds this weekend, the timing has residents and commuters on edge.

"I can't believe they're going to close the freeway for that long," said Travis, a San Francisco resident. "How are people going to get around?"

Transit agencies step up

Transportation officials are pointing to mass transit as the only reliable way to avoid a horrendous mile-and-a-half stretch of gridlock. BART, in particular, is preparing for a surge in passengers.

"When large freeways do close down for the weekend, we do see a bump in ridership, so we’re very much looking forward to that," said Alicia Trost, BART chief spokeswoman.

To manage the overflow on city streets, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency will deploy personnel to the most impacted areas.

"We're going to be sending out SFMTA parking control officers to control the traffic through some of the busier intersections to make sure pedestrians are staying safe," said SFMTA spokesman Michael Roccaforte.

Navigating the detours

For those who must drive, there are a few detour routes to navigate the closure. Drivers arriving from the Peninsula should exit at Ninth Street and travel along Bryant Street before re-entering the freeway at the Fifth Street onramp. Meanwhile, those traveling from Highway 101 are advised to use Folsom Street to reach the Essex Street onramp for bridge access.

Local taxi drivers, like Amid, say they are already planning to stick to lesser-known side streets. "You know I have to use the back roads," he said. "That’s all there is."

The 55-hour closure is expected to conclude in time for the Monday morning commute, leaving behind a smoother road surface but, as many residents fear, a weekend of frayed nerves.

1 killed in San Jose multi-car wreck

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:48:46 -0700

One person was killed in a multi-vehicle crash on Friday morning in San Jose.

Crash details

The crash occurred around 11:56 a.m. near Lucretia Avenue and Story Road. One person died at the scene, according to the San Jose Police Department.

Investigation ongoing

Authorities have not said what led up to the crash, but it involved several vehicles. Witnesses said the crash spanned several blocks and involved five cars, though police have not confirmed the number.

Witnesses described a silver verhicle weaving in and out of traffic, first hitting a Tesla near the enterce to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo before hitting three other cars near Lucretia Avenue.

"One car is coming from back — very high speeds, and crashed into two to three cars," said Mohinder Singh, who saw the crash.

Singh said he saw an elderly man and woman inside one of the involved vehicles.

Road closures

Road closures remained in place for several hours as officers investigated the cause of the crash and who was at fault.

Wintesses also said the intersection where the crash occurred is notoriously busy, located near a Walmart, school, and gas station.

Drop in California school enrollment 7x greater than state expected

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:53:48 -0700

California has long had a problem of declining enrollment; it's been cited as one of the key reasons for budget cuts across many Bay Area school districts, many of which have been forced to close schools.

Declining enrollment

But new state Department of Education data, analyzed by reporters at the nonprofit news site, Ed Source, shows the largest enrollment drop since the pandemic.

For the 2025-26 school year, enrollment in California public schools from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade fell by 1.3%. While the percentage appears small, it represents a loss of 74,960 students statewide.

The trend is not isolated to the public sector.

Data indicates that K-12 private schools in California saw a 6.6% decrease in enrollment, while the number of children registered for homeschooling declined by 3.7%.

"The big surprise to us was that the state Department of Finance predicted 10,000 students," said Michelle Quinn, executive editor of EdSource, noting that overall, there are 5 million students in the state's public schools. "But it was a 75,000 drop. And that was more than double the decline last year from the prior year. So what we're seeing is an acceleration of the decline."

State officials pointed to several factors driving the population shift.

Fewer children

Long-term demographic trends show families have been having fewer children over the past decade.

However, officials also noted that the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions are factoring into this year's numbers.

Immigration fears

Despite reassurances from local leaders, some immigrant families fear sending their children to school, and the overall number of immigrants moving to California has decreased over the past year.

Parents were concerned about the drop in numbers.

Catherine Tseng, a parent

"It's a big deal," said Catherine Tseng, a parent in Dublin. "Our classes are too big. If we get fewer kids, it just means less funding all around. It's going to be less resources."

And parent Miguel Bendezu said it's not like taxes are dropping either.

"The expenditures are going up, less resources," he said. "That's the most concerning."

Financial implications

The decline carries significant financial implications, as funding for California's public schools is tied to average daily attendance.

With fewer students in the classroom, districts receive less state funding, an outcome that impacts local economies and the communities surrounding the schools.

State officials said they do not expect the downward trend to change in the coming years.

'Made a mistake:' Philz Coffee backtracks, will now keep Pride flags up

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:58:41 -0700

The Pride flags at Philz Coffee are staying up, the company announced in a news release Friday.

‘Made a mistake’

Following a series of "meaningful, in-person" conversations between Philz Coffee CEO Mahesh Sadarangani and San Francisco Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford, the San Francisco-born coffee chain retreated on its earlier decision to take the rainbow flags down from its stores, which was first reported April 9 in the San Francisco Chronicle.

"I made a mistake, and I am sincerely sorry," Sadarangani said in a written statement.

He said he realizes that the Pride flag is a symbol of safety and belonging for the LGBTQIA+ community, and the new policy he wanted to enact of taking them down "failed" his customers and the wider community.

He said any Pride flag that was taken down can be put back up.

Sadarangani never fully explained why he wanted the flags taken down.

In a statement to the Chronicle last week, he would only say that Philz "was working toward creating a more consistent, inclusive experience across all our stores, including removing a variety of flags and other decor." At the time, the company did not answer a list of detailed questions the Chronicle sent to its public relations firm.

But Sadarangani also said that, flags or no flags, the company’s support for the LGBTQIA+ community remains unchanged.

Petition and public

The decision to take the flags drew immediate criticism and an online petition that was reported across the country, from the Today Show to the New York Post.

The company statement said that going forward, each of the company's 82 stores will also feature locally created artwork "shaped by the voices of team members and the neighborhoods they serve, a living expression of the diverse communities Philz is proud to be part of."

In the same statement, Ford applauded the move to reinstall the Pride flags, which she said are especially important now, in a "climate that feels more threatening every day."

Philz Coffee was founded in San Francisco in 2003 and moved its headquarters to Oakland in 2024.

'Car-tastrophe': Avoid the Bay Bridge at all costs this weekend

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:51:09 -0700

Caltrans will fully close an eastbound stretch of Interstate 80 over the weekend beginning on Friday, portending traffic headaches for those looking to traverse the Bay Bridge.

Rehab work

The eastbound side of I-80 between 17th and Fourth streets in San Francisco will be fully closed from April 17 at 11 p.m. until April 20 at 6 a.m. in order to allow crews to perform rehabilitation work on the 71-year-old Central and Bayshore Freeway viaducts, according to Caltrans.

Also closed will be the southbound and northbound connector ramps between Highway 101 and the eastbound side of I-80.

"Performing this work now allows Caltrans to address critical maintenance needs, preserve the existing infrastructure, and ensure continued safety for motorists, commuters, pedestrians, and cyclists traveling through and beneath the structures," the department said.

How to avoid the closures

The department "strongly urged" motorists to avoid the stretch of freeway as the work is completed, and advised travelers to consider public transportation.

A detour for Peninsula drivers looking to cross the Bay Bridge will start at the Ninth Street freeway and will travel along Bryant Street before offering access back onto the freeway at the Fifth Street onramp.

Those driving from Highway 101 were advised to take Folsom Street and enter the freeway at the Essex Street onramp.

Oakland Ice Center mural honors Olympic skaters Alysa Liu, Kristi Yamaguchi

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 06:07:43 -0700

A new mural featuring Olympic figure skaters Alysa Liu and Kristi Yamaguchi was recently completed at the Oakland Ice Center, the training grounds for both athletes.

The mural

Bay Area artist Julie Engelmann spent four weeks working on the piece, which replaced an old sign on a blank wall at the rink.

Engelmann, who is from the Peninsula, said the project was a way to combine her respect for figure skating with her love for art.

"I try to make my work as realistic as possible," Engelmann said. "I hope people feel a lot of pride to be part of the Bay Area and feel inspired that we have two gold medal figures here."

Engelmann reached out to the rink with the idea for the mural after watching Liu’s performances in Milan.

The Oakland Ice Center holds significance for both skaters, as both Liu and Yamaguchi trained at the facility during their careers.

The mural is visible from the classrooms at the Oakland School for the Arts, where Liu attended. Local skaters say the artwork serves as a reminder of where the stars earned their reputations before they were known globally.

‘Amazing’ tribute

"What an amazing tribute, what an amazing work of art," said Kellie Allyn, a former competitive skater. "We’re lucky to have such amazing artists here."

Glenn Martin, the general manager at the Oakland Ice Center, noted that fans have been visiting the rink frequently in hopes of spotting Liu on the ice. Martin said he wanted the mural to stand out among other tributes appearing in the region.

"With all the murals popping up in this area and also in L.A., I wanted to make sure that ours was bigger and brighter and told a better story," Martin said.

Engelmann finished the final touches on the mural Thursday afternoon. The rink management plans to invite both gold medalists back to view the artwork in person.

Former Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell sworn in as Fremont’s top cop

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:35:01 -0700

The city of Fremont officially swore in its new police chief on Thursday, welcoming a familiar face to lead the department. Floyd Mitchell, who served as Oakland’s police chief until last year, has formally stepped into the role.

Mitchell is well-known to Bay Area residents, having served as Oakland’s top cop from May 2024 until October 2025. Despite facing criticism during his tenure in Oakland, Fremont city leaders welcomed him with open arms during the ceremony.

"I’m already ahead of the game because I already know these folks and have established relationships with them," Mitchell said, noting his previous work with former Fremont Police Chief Sean Washington through the Alameda County Chiefs of Police and Sheriffs Association.

Fremont, the fourth-largest city in the Bay Area, is recognized for its low violent crime rate, but it continues to face regional challenges. City Councilmember Kathy Kimberlin noted that the "tri-cities" must work together on issues like homelessness, traffic, and housing.

"The tri-cities, we all work together, and it should go beyond because we’re really all suffering from some of the challenges," Kimberlin said. "It sounds like he’s down for that too."

While leadership expressed confidence, some community members are taking a "wait and see" approach. Salim Mastan, a Fremont resident of 48 years, emphasized that Mitchell still has to prove himself, particularly in how the department handles the unhoused population.

"They are not criminals," Mastan said, adding that he wants to see the chief find ways to tackle homelessness without criminalization to ensure Fremont remains "the happiest city."

Fremont Mayor Raj Salwan underscored the high standards the community holds for its police force, stating that safety is the foundation for everything else in the city.

"We want to make sure that Fremont continues to be one of the safest large cities with a diverse department that is very inclusive and that reflects our community," Salwan said.

As Mitchell begins his new chapter in Fremont, the city of Oakland continues its search for his permanent replacement. Potential candidates for the Oakland vacancy are expected to begin the interview process in late April or early May.

Berkeley paraclimber racing against time, vision loss ahead of World Cup

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:58:23 -0700

A world-class paraclimber from Berkeley is preparing for the international stage, competing not only against the best athletes in the world but against a rare condition that is slowly taking his sight.

Rayaan Hassan Mohammadi, 45, is currently training for the World Climbing Para Series. He is slated to represent the United States at five events across the globe this year, an opportunity he is determined to seize before his vision fades completely.

From the soccer pitch to the peaks

Mohammadi’s journey to the top of the climbing world began with a devastating loss. As a young man in Iran, he was a rising star at a semi-professional soccer academy. Those dreams were cut short in high school when he was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP).

"That was my life, school and soccer, playing all the time," said Mohammadi. "And of course I was depressed for a while."

The disorder causes a progressive loss of vision. Mohammadi describes his current sight as looking through a narrow lens. "Like looking at you right now, looking at your eyes, I can’t see your mouth," he explained.

He eventually turned to mountaineering and climbing, but it wasn't until 2024 that he discovered the world of competitive paraclimbing after walking into a local indoor gym. There, he saw athletes with various disabilities scaling walls, which inspired him to compete.

Climbing for a cause

This year, Mohammadi has already proven he belongs on the podium, securing second-place finishes at both the U.S. National and Canadian National events.

However, competing at a global level carries a heavy price tag. Mohammadi says a full year of training and competing at the World Climbing Para Series' five events costs approximately $50,000.

"My goal is to compete in all of them if I’m able to find sponsors and raise money for them," said Mohammadi.

Beyond the financial strain, Mohammadi faces a significant emotional toll. His family is currently back home in Iran, caught in the middle of the escalating U.S.-Iran war. He is only able to speak to them sparingly on the phone.

"Mom, is everybody alive? Just imagine," Mohammadi said of his calls home. "It’s really tough for me to compete honestly. Like I have to work on myself every day."

A closing window

Mohammadi is acutely aware that his time in the sport is limited. He knows that the visual "puzzles" he solves on the climbing wall will only become more difficult as his condition progresses.

"It’s going to get harder and harder and harder," said Mohammadi. "The things that I see right now, it’s not going to be like that next year."

This weekend, Mohammadi will be in Reno competing in a regional competition as he tunes up for the World Climbing Para Series.

A GoFundMe has been set up to support Rayaan Hassan Mohammadi's efforts to represent the U.S. abroad. It has been established to help with his competition and travel expenses.

Europe's worst energy crisis coming our way

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:35:25 -0700

The International Energy Agency delivered this ominous message: in six weeks, Europe will be out of jet fuel. San Francisco Airport, which has many flights to and from Europe that could be reduced or outright canceled. This politically driven economic disease is sure to spread worldwide.

International jet fuel crisis

"In Europe, we have maybe six weeks or so of jet fuel left. What is happening now is the largest energy crisis we have ever faced in history," said Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency.

Professor Severin Borenstein a preeminent energy and airline economist at UC Berkeley Haas Energy Institute, minces no words since crude oil is just one of several critical petroleum products that pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

"A lot of the jet fuel is produced at the new, massive refineries in the Middle East, and they're not able to get product out. That typically goes to Western Europe and so Western Europe is seeing the biggest shortage," said Professor Borenstein.

Worldwide, 10 airlines have already raised prices, cut service, downsized their fleets, or eliminated many routes altogether. For Europe and really, the rest of the world, this is as serious as it gets because once they go through the last of the crude oil and the reserves that they have to make more, the problem is, after that, they're out, out of fuel. And that means the airlines are essentially out of business.

"If we see the war go on as long as it's already gone on, without the Strait of Hormuz being opened up. At that point, we're gonna start to see many airlines filing for bankruptcy, grounding the majority of their flights and a real disruption in the industry," said Borenstein.

Unaffordable tickets

This could make ticket prices unaffordable everywhere on earth.

"If this continues, jet fuel prices are gonna go even higher and we will see a smaller and smaller industry, which is what you would expect," said the Borenstein.

That is power that dictators and autocrats often only dream of. "The Iranians have clearly discovered in this war that they have much more power over the world economy that they or anyone else thought they would have at this point," said Borenstein.

At San Francisco International Airport, frequent flyers are concerned. "It's a dire situation because six weeks out puts us right at the beginning of the high peak travel season to Europe," said Piero Ferracuti. "I think it would be a real mess. It will be a big detriment to everyone. I think it could be really tense," said French passenger Margarite Ausseau.

She says it may end up that Europeans will rediscover Europe, but without airplanes. "We have a lot of trains and a lot of other means of transportation," said Ausseau.

In a real sense, this blockage of the strait could create a new kind of world war, a fight for dwindling energy resources. And, you're paying for it.

Sea lion pup rescued in San Francisco's Outer Sunset, now under veterinary care

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:00:23 -0700

A wayward sea lion pup was found early Thursday morning by police in San Francisco's Outer Sunset neighborhood.

A break from the beach

Officials with the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department said park rangers saw the police officers at 48th Avenue and Irving Street. Apparently the pup had wandered from out of the ocean onto the street. The intersection where the sea lion was found is about a block and a half from Ocean Beach.

Officers with the San Francisco Police Department, along with a trained Marine Mammal Center responder and five park rangers succeeded in placing the pup into a crate. The pup was taken to a nearby ranger station and then transferred by mid-morning to the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito for veterinary care.

Receiving medical care

In a social media post, the SF Rec and Park Department said the pup has since been named Irving after the street he was found on.

"As of now, it's unknown why Irving was away from their usual habitat," a Marine Mammal Center spokesperson said in a statement. "The pup will receive an admission exam from our veterinary experts this week to determine sex, evaluate their condition, identify any underlying ailments, and better assess long-term future outlook."

You can find out more about all the animal patients at the Marine Mammal Center on their website, where they say they've rescued more than 27,000 animals to date. Currently their website says they have 19 sea lion patients at their facility.

The center reminds that if you encounter marine mammals that you should keep your distance and call their rescue hotline to report animals in need at 415-289-SEAL (7325).

Healing spaces: Hospital rooms transformed for families at Sutter CPMC once upon a room

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:28:38 -0700

Some families at Sutter’s CPMC hospital in San Francisco experienced a welcome change of scenery Thursday, as ordinary hospital rooms were transformed into colorful, personalized spaces designed to lift spirits.

A mission beyond medicine

Sutter’s CPMC says its mission is to treat the body, mind and spirit of every patient who walks through its doors. Now, a nonprofit group is helping bring that vision to life.

"Once Upon a Room" partnered with hospital staff to turn functional patient rooms into spaces filled with joy, comfort and imagination.

A fragile start, a strong fight

Among the families impacted is Charnea Morris and her daughter, Phoenix.

Phoenix was born at 23 weeks, weighing just over 2 pounds, a frightening experience, even for Morris, who has three other children at home.

"I was kind of already mentally prepared because I’d had the experience before," Morris said. "But nothing really prepares you for being in the hospital until you’re really here."

Thanks to advances in medical care, Phoenix is now thriving, gaining weight and growing stronger each day.

Turning a room into a refuge

Much of that journey has taken place inside a standard hospital room. Now, that space has been transformed into something more personal.

Morris said the decorations, tailored to her preferences, make a meaningful difference.

"They decorated with her favorite color, and they put the stars up like I asked," she said.

She added that the changes bring a sense of comfort during a long and uncertain stay.

"It actually gives me a little bit more light in this room," Morris said. "It helps us on our journey because we spend a lot of time in here."

Creating Joy in difficult moments

Once Upon a Room was founded by Josie Hull, a formerly conjoined twin, and her family. Inspired by their own hospital experience, they set out to create spaces that celebrate the lives of children temporarily calling hospital rooms home.

"You just see them light up," said Lauren Wickham, who works with the organization. "They don’t necessarily get to live the average life that someone their age does. So if we can bring that to them and let them experience that joy, it might help with the healing process."

She added that a positive environment can have a powerful impact: "When you’re surrounded by good energy, it can save lives."

Hospital staff say these transformations align with a broader approach to care.

"It’s the whole body — mind, body, spirit," said Lori Denault, child life director at Sutter CPMC. "We’re really trying to be more inclusive of that by supporting families in that area."

Growing impact nationwide

Once Upon a Room now works in more than 40 hospitals across 16 states and continues to seek volunteers and donations to expand its reach.

For families like Morris’, the effort is already making a difference — turning a clinical space into one filled with hope.

Santa Clara gears up for World Cup with STEM fair and community events

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:04:22 -0700

With just under two months until the World Cup arrives at Levi’s Stadium, the city of Santa Clara is launching a massive effort to welcome both local residents and visitors.

While the World Cup is a region-wide event for the Bay Area, Santa Clara—the actual home of Levi’s Stadium—is working to welcome guests and locals through a series of high-profile community activities.

Putting Santa Clara on the Global Map

The city is currently flying flags along El Camino Real to mark its global importance this year. Following the hosting of Super Bowl LX, the city is preparing for six World Cup matches later this summer. Officials have dubbed the year "Celebrate Santa Clara: Where the Mission Meets the Moment."

"The City of Santa Clara has a mission to foster community engagement," said city spokesperson Janine De la Vega. "We are welcoming thousands of visitors here for the upcoming FIFA matches."

The outreach began in February with a resident event on the field at Levi’s Stadium. The momentum continues through May, June, and July with a series of special "Night Markets." These events will feature DJs, local retailers, and a "Flex Zone" including a car show in May and a FIFA-themed sports zone in June.

Bridging Athletics and Academics: The STEM Behind Sports

This weekend, the focus shifts to education as the city hosts a massive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) event at the Santa Clara Convention Center. Organizers expect up to 10,000 attendees.

"We are bringing in a sports theme—the STEM behind sports," said Rachel Schmidt, youth coordinator for the Santa Clara Library. "We're looking at the physics and the math that goes into it. Because we are hosting FIFA, we wanted to bring that sports theme in."

Tara Eileen Deane, a customer insights associate for Sharks Sports & Entertainment, will serve as a panelist at Sunday’s event. She noted that STEM fields are integral to every aspect of the modern sports organizations and the fan experience.

"Whether it be connecting the data points you see through ticketing, or the actual scans of people into the building, it’s about tying that to the fan experience," Deane said. "It ranges from creating exceptional events to learning the science behind how ice freezes."

Robotics and Real-World Application

The event will also feature heavy hitters in robotics, including a robot dog used by Mission College professor Dr. Clement Lam to illustrate complex concepts.

"I think it will make a big difference because they can see STEM at work," Lam said. "It is not just a lot of theory; the theory is hidden inside the robot. When the robot walks, that involves a lot of science."

Event Details and Location

The STEM event is free and open to the public. It runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Santa Clara Convention Center, located directly across the street from Levi’s Stadium.

City leaders hope these events create a lasting positive impact as Santa Clara continues its year in the worldwide spotlight.

Check your bill: California just released $520M in automatic utility credits

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:24:23 -0700

California is delivering $520 million in utility relief this month as Governor Gavin Newsom announced the latest round of the California Climate Credit.

The program, funded by the state's cap-and-trade system, aims to lower the cost of living by returning carbon-emission revenue directly to residential and small business customers.

Millions of California households with natural gas service will see an automatic credit of approximately $40 on their bills this month.

This is part of a larger $1.4 billion residential relief package for 2026, which includes $894 million earmarked for electric customers and $520 million for natural gas users.

The credits are automatic, requiring no action from consumers, and are funded by companies that pay for greenhouse gas emission allowances through the state’s Cap-and-Invest program.

Gov. Newsom framed the credits as a defensive measure against rising national costs.

"At a time when Donald Trump is making life more expensive for every American — at the pump, in their home, at the grocery store, and virtually everywhere — California is fighting back," he said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: California climate credit: Millions to get average of $137 in credits on April utility bills

He added that the state is "delivering on its promise to put money back in Californians' pockets."

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is scheduled to vote on April 30 regarding a strategic shift in when these credits are distributed.

If approved, electric credits—traditionally issued in April and October—will move to August and September starting in 2026 to help families manage peak summer air conditioning costs.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Chevron warns Newsom’s ‘adversarial’ energy agenda will cripple California economy, send gas prices soaring

Similarly, natural gas credits are slated to shift to February starting in 2027 to address high winter heating bills.

Sister of missing Oakland woman holds on to hope Amy Hillyard is still alive in new video

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:16:35 -0700

The sister of Amy Hillyard, the Oakland coffee-shop owner who went missing more than three weeks ago, released a touching video this week about her sister's disappearance. She said she had a dream about her sister and that it gives her hope she's still out there and still alive.

Desperate for information

"Amy, I had a dream the other night that you're alive and that you're OK. I know that it was just a dream, but it gave me hope," her sister Alexandra said. "I pray that wherever you are, you are safe."

She went on to say that all of her sister's loved ones are desperate for information.

"Myself, Chris, the girls…our whole family and your incredible friends. You have always been by my side. My cool big sister, my maid of honor and beloved auntie to my two young children," said the younger Hillyard. "You have touched every single part of my life, and you have made it better with your wisdom and grace. You are adored by so many people."

The video shows a photo montage of the sisters sharing memories at the wedding, on the beach, and enjoying the outdoors.

"Life is so confusing and so painful without you, and the unknowing is becoming unbearable," said Hillyard.

She then asks if anyone is with or has seen her sister, to please contact them and let them know she is OK. The video closes with her telling her sister she loves her and that she hopes to see her soon.

Search efforts continue

The 52-year-old co-owner of Farley's Coffee went missing on March 25. She is considered at risk due to an undisclosed medical condition. She was last seen on the 500 block of Radnor Road at around 2 p.m.

The Oakland Police Department said there is video footage of Hillyard at Dimond Park later that same day at around 4:30 p.m. She was alone and was wearing a white short-sleeved top, light-colored jeans, and white sneakers with black stripes.

Over the Easter holiday, the family thanked the community for the continued search parties where hundreds of people have combed areas including the Oakland hills along Skyline Boulevard. The OPD has also canvassed the area.

The next high-profile search effort is set for this Saturday, April 18, where Hillyard's husband and volunteers with the Bring Amy Home community will gather at Farley's East coffee shop in Oakland. Volunteers will fan out across neighborhoods as well as trails Amy is known to have hiked along. The coffee shop is located at 33 Grand Avenue in Oakland. Opening remarks will be made at 10 a.m.

"Amy and I always talked about how Farley’s is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. It’s a place for community. I’ve been so grateful for the support of the community in the effort to bring Amy home. It’s only fitting to gather at Farley’s to express my deep appreciation and continue the search for her," Amy's husband Chris Hillyard said.

Last week, Hillyard's husband spoke out in a video about his wife's disappearance.

"Amy's superpower is to bring out the best in people. She made me a better person. She makes most people she comes in contact with a better person," he said at the time. "She's able to bring out everyone's superpowers. Now we need those powers to bring her home."

He spoke of her ability to bring people together and her community involvement.

Hillyard served on nonprofit boards and community projects and is board president of the Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir. Those who know her said she is an avid hiker.

Reward offered

Hillyard's family is offering a $10,000 reward that leads to her safe return home. The family encourages anyone with information to contact OPD's Missing Person's Unit at 510-238-3641.

Grown-ups only: Iconic Bay Area theme park to host party for adults

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:18:07 -0700

An iconic Oakland institution known for its whimsical, storybook offerings for kids is set to kick off its 2026 grown-ups-only events later this month.

Children’s Fairyland said it is celebrating the magic of spring by hosting its first "Happily After Hours" party of the year, designated for those 21 years and older and "curated for the forever young at heart."

With an Alice in Wonderland theme, guests are invited to "tumble down the rabbit hole" for Fairyland’s "Mad Tea Party," an event that transforms the children's play area into a space for adults to experience a memorable night of music, dancing, cocktails, and food from local vendors and food trucks.

Organizers said guests can expect to enjoy a "proper tea party," theatrical surprises, like cabaret performers, as well as a live performance from the Bay Area’s DJ heyLove, who will pump out music with dancers invited to take over a black light dance floor.

Attendees are encouraged to don "imaginative costumes" and dress up for the theme.

Tapping into your inner kid

The event offers a chance for adults to tap into their inner kid’s love for imaginative play and wander and explore the magic of the historic theme park.

"Guests are invited to hop aboard the Jolly Trolly for delightful evening rides, play inside of the Alice in Wonderland tunnel and maze, and explore other storybook sets like the Old West Junction," Fairyland said in a press release. "With 10 acres of lush gardens, attractions, water features, and whimsical structures, there is something magical to discover with every corner turned".

Located on the shores of Lake Merritt, Fairyland has been a part of the community since 1950. It’s considered the country's first ever storybook theme park and is credited for helping Walt Disney imagine and create Disneyland.

This is the fifth year the adults-only events are been held.

Organizers said last year, the series drew more than 900 attendees. This year, the theme park hopes to bring in even more people.

Party details

The Mad Tea Party will be held on Friday, April 24. It will be Fairyland’s first of a series of five adults-only events scheduled for this year.

Tickets are on sale now. The cost is $28 per person and $23 for Fairyland members.

Only those 21 and older will be admitted and guests must present a valid ID for entry.

Already sold out is the special "Gilded Chrysalis Experience," a VIP lounge package.

For $200, the package covers priority entry for four people. It includes reserved seating at the top of the famed Dragon Slide, a bottle of sparkling wine, and light bites.

A focus on accessibility

Fairyland officials said the ticket costs were lowered from last year, after hearing from community members who advocated for making the theme park accessible for everyone.

"We like to keep these events affordable," said Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Morgan Rothenbaum.

She added that the structure of the adults-only parties was modified to allow organizers to adjust the price.

"We want to make sure we are providing fun for everyone," Rothenbaum said, "Everyone has access to fun."

The money raised from these adults-only events helps support the theme park's programs and its "broader mission," Rothenbaum explained, while also giving grown-ups a chance to experience the magic of this community gem.

"These events contribute to expanding access through programs like Fairyland for All, which provides $5 admission and a pathway to free family membership for qualifying families, and underwriting field trips for local schools," Rothenbaum shared. "More broadly, these events help create the magical, informal learning experiences that make every day at Fairyland special—arts & crafts on weekends, Toddler Storytime on Fridays, and more.

Other adults-only events this year

Four more adults-only events are scheduled for the 2026 season, with varying themes but all focused on community.

The themes and dates are: "Fairyland for Grownups" on Aug. 15, "Drawn Together," on Sept. 25, a Halloween-themed party on Oct. 23, and "Twas the Night" on Dec. 11.

"While each event varies, they've become a meaningful and growing source of support for Fairyland," Rothenbaum said, "allowing us to continue investing in both the guest experience and community access.

For more information and for tickets, click here.

Man charged with murder in fatal SoMa hit-and-run after sidewalk dispute

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:23:13 -0700

A verbal dispute over a blocked sidewalk may have escalated into a deadly hit-and-run Monday afternoon in San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood, according to prosecutors.

Valantino Cash Amil, 30, was charged Thursday with murder and one count of fleeing the scene of an accident. The murder charge includes an allegation that Amil used a deadly weapon to commit the crime, the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office said.

Amil remains in custody without bail.

The collision

The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. near Mission Street and South Van Ness Avenue. Prosecutors said Amil was driving a black 2024 Mercedes-Benz E350 and had just finished filling up at a Chevron station. As he attempted to merge into traffic, his vehicle partially blocked the sidewalk.

Dannielle Spillman, 74, was walking along the sidewalk and seemed to "take exception" to the vehicle blocking her path, the district attorney’s office said in a news release.

Authorities said Amil and Spillman exchanged words as she walked from the driver’s side toward the front of the car. While in front of the vehicle, Spillman allegedly poured liquid from a water bottle onto the hood of the Mercedes.

Amil then accelerated into Spillman, knocking her onto the hood and windshield, prosecutors said. After driving several feet, Amil slowed down, causing Spillman to slide off and land directly in front of the car.

Amil then allegedly drove over her and fled the scene.

Spillman was pronounced dead at the scene 10 minutes later. Amil was arrested nearly two hours after the incident.

Defense attorney blasts charges

Outside court, defense attorney Seth Morris said his client was scared and panicked while trying to protect his wife, 4-month-old son and 10-year-old daughter in the car with him, and that he saw the pedestrian as a threat "who was belligerent, who was trying to reach into the car, trying to hurt them."

Morris says the family was headed to Disneyland to celebrate the birthday of Amil's daughter, who turned 11 while he was in jail.

"By charging him with murder, when he acted in lawful, self-defense, when he panicked, when they're being attacked in the streets, is outrageous, and it needs to be stopped," Morris said.

Remembering Dannielle Spillman

While the medical examiner has not yet publicly identified the victim, those who knew her identified her as Spillman, a transgender woman who had lived in San Francisco for more than 20 years.

Derrick Guerra, a case manager at a San Francisco non-profit that combats isolation among the aging LGBTQ+ population, said Spillman had been his client for nearly a year. He described her as a woman who loved playing guitar and talking about music.

Guerra said that Spillman recently shared that she felt San Francisco was safer for trans women in the 90s than it is today.

"She was telling me recently she was nearly assaulted and that a man had recently tried to hit her," Guerra said.

Spillman’s death marks the eighth pedestrian fatality in San Francisco this year.

Guerra said a vigil is currently being planned in her honor.

Man shot by ICE in California moved 'suddenly' to new jail: attorney

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:11:09 -0700

The man shot by ICE officers in California, and then charged with federal assault, has been "suddenly and unexpectedly" moved to a new jail, more than two hours away from his home, his attorney said Thursday.

Moved to new jail

According to attorney Patrick Kolasinski, 36-year-old Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez was moved from Yuba County Jail to Taft, which makes it harder for his fiancé, Cindy, who lives in Patterson, Calif., and his federal public defender, to meet with him.

Taft is about 250 miles south of Yuba City, and a three-hour drive for his family and attorneys.

"This is outrageous," said Kolasinski. "This man needs to be in a hospital. He's been bounced around from detention center to detention center."

Kolasinski said it remains unclear why his client was moved, adding that Hernandez could have been held in a Sacramento jail facility, but the sheriff refuses to house him there.

Hernandez has a court date Monday in Sacramento's Eastern District Court of Northern California to hear if a judge will release him on a $50,000 bond after the Department of Justice this week charged him with assaulting an officer on April 7, when he was seen on dashcam video, reversing and then driving off on I-5 to evade ICE officers.

Federal assault on officer

In a criminal complaint written by an FBI agent, three ICE officers and one CPB officer had followed Hernandez from his home to arrest him for being in the country illegally.

According to the officers, they had asked Hernandez repeatedly to get out of the car, and then broke windows to his Toyota to get him to comply.

Through his attorney, Hernandez said he drove away because ICE officers fired first at him, and he was taking off out of fear. At least one witness corroborated Hernandez's story, and told the FBI that this week.

When Hernandez was driving away, his Toyota struck an agent, the FBI complaint states, which is where the charge stems from.

Ultimately, Hernandez was shot seven times, including in the face, and has undergone four surgeries. He has been moved to at least three jails this week.

He has been in the custody of the US Marshals, though Kolasinki also said there is an ICE hold on Hernandez as well.

Hernandez does not have legal status in the United States, and is a dual citizen of El Salvador and Mexico, his attorney said.

Former sheriff's deputy pleads "not guilty" to murder in fatal Esparto fireworks explosion

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:43:16 -0700

Six people indicted in connection with the deadly Esparto fireworks warehouse explosion returned to court on Thursday, where several relatives of the seven killed employees tearfully asked the judge for no bail.

The attorney for former Yolo County Sheriff's Lieutenant Sam Machado said in court that his client should be allowed bail, saying that the fatal explosion last July 1, 2025 had been an "industrial accident," and that his client was just the "landlord," who lived on the property and would never have allowed an illegal, unpermitted fireworks operation.

Proseuctors told the judge in court that there is evidence in text messages that Machado "door-dashed" explosives to his property, and asked workers to hide the explosives when Machado believed inspectors might visit the property.

Bail remains

Yolo County Superior Court Daniel P. Maguire kept the no bail conditions in place, and reset court schedules for next week. The judge also allowed the hearing to be livestreamed.

Those appearing in court include former Yolo County Sheriff’s Lt. Sam Machado; Craig Cutright, the owner of Blackstar Fireworks and a volunteer firefighter for the Esparto Fire District; Jack Lee, the owner of San Francisco-based Devastating Pyrotechnics; and Douglas Tollefsen, an associate of Devastating Pyrotechnics.

Lee, Machado and Tollefsen remain held without bail in Yolo County custody. Cutright is being held in lieu of $500,000 bail at Yolo County jail. Maguire kept those bail amounts in place until court hearings scheduled for April 22.

At the court hearing on Thursday, Sam Machado, who appeared in custody in a white T-shirt, entered a not guilty plea to a second-degree murder charge.

The DA also charged Chee, Lee, Chan, and Tollefsen with second-degree murder.

Emotional pleas from victims' relatives

Many of the victims' family members spoke in court Thursday in memory of the seven people killed: Christopher Bocog, Neil Justin Li, Joel Melendez, Jesús Ramos, Jhony Ramos Jr.,, Carlos Rodriguez, and Angel Voller.

"I lost my partner Christopher Bocag. Just weeks after the explosion... my son turned six." Maria Soriano, Christopher Bocag's partner, said. "He is growing up without his dad."

Matt Voller, father of Angel Voller, 18, described how his son had just graduated from school before he was killed.

"Every day we hurt. I love my son. I miss him very much. He was a brother, uncle, grandson, boyfriend. He was loved by so many," Voller said.

Syanna Ruiz, Jesus Ramos's partner, just gave birth to their daughter two months ago, and brought the baby to the courtroom.

"You took away the father of my daughter," Ruiz told the defendants, "You need to face the actions and the consequences."

"I am asking that they will not be granted today please. My husband, Carlos Rodriguez, was taken from us in this horrible tragedy and the impact on our family has been something we will carry forever," Tiffany Nolan, widow of Carlos Rodriguez, said.

Maria Melendez also spoke about her husband, saying, "I lost my husband suddenly and violently and now am raising our two sons alone, with our 21-month-oldhaving a recent autism diagnosis. They will grow up without their father and that is what they will have to live with every single day."

Arraignment

Gary Chan Jr., whose name is on the company’s federal license, appeared in court on Thursday afternoon. Chan faces charges of possessing, transporting or conspiring to transport destructive or explosive devices. The judge moved the arraignment to next week, so that Chan could apply for legal counsel from a public defender.

Lee served as the company's longtime operations manager, while Chan is listed on Devastating Pyrotechnics's federal license.

Sam Machado's wife, Tammy Machado, who also worked as a civilian in the sheriff's office, has pleaded not guilty to charges that include mortgage and tax fraud, child endangerment and animal cruelty. She was allowed to post bail.

On Thursday, she appeared with her attorney in court to schedule future matters.

Charges: murder, conspiracy, fraud, child endangerment

In total, eight people were indicted in connection with the explosion, including Kenneth Chee, owner of Devastating Pyrotechnics, and Ronald Botelho III, the latter of whom worked for Cutright.

Charges include murder, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of illegal assault weapons, illegal explosives' possession, insurance fraud, child endangerment and animal cruelty.

The charges stem from the massive explosion that occurred on July 1, 2025, on the Machado family's property in Esparto, about 40 miles northwest of Sacramento.

Seven people – all employees working at the fireworks facility – were killed days before the Fourth of July, and the explosion caused a 78-acre fire.

Seven killed

Those killed were workers at the site. They were: Jesús Ramos, 18; Jhony Ramos, 22; Joel Melendez Jr., 28; Carlos Rodriguez-Mora, 43; Angel Voller, 18; Christopher Bocog, 45; and Neil Li, 41.

Maria Melendez, widow of Joel Melendez, was among the many family members who asked the judge for no bail at the start of the hearing.

According to the Yolo County District Attorney, the site was found to have been storing approximately one million pounds of illegal fireworks at the time of the explosion.

At the Thursday court hearing, Maguire noted that the "tragedy was beyond scale."

California student takes on DHS after losing eye in protest

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:26:59 -0700

Tucker Collins, 18, was using his camera during No Kings Day rallies outside the Federal Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles when he was hit in the eye, seemingly with a less-than-lethal weapon fired by the Department of Homeland Security, according to video and his testimony.

Lost an eye

At a news conference on Wednesday, Collins and his attorneys said that a medic and nurse at the March 28 rally helped get him to a hospital, where doctors removed several fragments, likely fired from an FN 303.

He underwent surgery for two hours and ultimately lost his eye.

Collins, a freshman studying aeronautical engineering at USC, says he was not a threat and was simply documenting what was happening, not being an agitator, which is how DHS is describing people at the protest.

"I was in no way an agitator. I just had my camera… I was recording and the next thing I know, I can’t see," Collins said at the Wednesday press conference, according to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune. "It was some of the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life."

DHS response

In a statement, the DHS said that the First Amendment protects speech and peaceful assembly, but "not rioting." The DHS said that seven warnings were issued before they deployed "crowd control" measures, describing a scene where 1,000 "rioters" surrounded the federal building. The agency said the "rioters" were throwing rocks, bottles and cement blocks at officers.

"DHS is taking appropriate and constitutional measures to uphold the rule of law and protect our officers and the public from dangerous rioters," the statement said.. "Our law enforcement has followed their training and used the minimum amount of force necessary to protect themselves, the public, and federal property."

Less-than-lethal weapons have been the target of court injunctions, specifically barring law enforcement from firing them at close range or targeting a person's head, neck, face, eyes, kidneys or spine.

Federal authorities have obtained stays on some of those injunctions pending litigation, and agencies like DHS continue to use them for crowd control.

Collins' attorney, V. James de Simone, is asking for state and local officials to investigate this and the "other attacks on citizens" by federal authorities. According to the San Gabriel Valley Tribune, they are seeking $100 million from the government in a tort claim.