Latest News in El Cajon, CA

Your trusted source for local El Cajon, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Gas going up to 8 a gallon in California?

California faces a potential gas price surge to over $8 per gallon due to the closure of two refineries. State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones warns that regulatory policies are driving refineries out of the state, exacerbating economic hardship for families. Governor Gavin Newsom's office emphasizes ongoing efforts to ensure a reliable gasoline supply.

Airline offers new nonstop flights from San Diego

San Diego International Airport launched its first nonstop flight to Amsterdam, enhancing travel options for local residents. The KLM Royal Dutch Airlines service operates three times weekly, connecting San Diego to over 160 additional European destinations. Officials hailed the route as a boost for the regional economy and tourism.

Man shot several times by San Diego police in Pacific Beach

A man was hospitalized after being shot multiple times by a San Diego police officer in Pacific Beach on Thursday. Officers responded to a disturbance at the Taylor Branch Library, where the man allegedly wielded a hatchet and refused to drop the weapon. He is expected to survive his injuries.

Man pleads not guilty to manslaughter, DUI in deadly I-805 crash

A San Diego man, Markus Turner, pleaded not guilty to felony charges, including manslaughter and DUI, after a five-car crash on Interstate 805 that killed 65-year-old Grasiela Gomez. Prosecutors allege Turner was driving over 100 miles per hour while under the influence of marijuana and alcohol. He remains in custody with bail set at $500,000, pending his next court appearance on May 15.

The Real ID deadline is here. What travelers need to know

Real ID-compliant identification will be mandatory for domestic flights in the U.S. starting May 7, 2025. Travelers aged 18 and over must present a Real ID or an accepted alternative, such as a U.S. passport, to pass through security. The TSA advises those without a Real ID to arrive early for advanced screening to prevent delays.

El Cajon man Pimpin' found guilty of trying to sex traffic 14-year-old girl Prosecutors

Steven Terrell Lewis, 39, was convicted of attempting to recruit a 14-year-old girl into prostitution and coercing a 22-year-old woman to work as a prostitute. He contacted the girl in El Cajon and sent her explicit messages, while the woman was approached through a personals website. Lewis faces further investigation for potential additional victims.

El Cajon condos end ban on children playing in common areas

A settlement has lifted a ban on children playing in common areas of a condo complex in El Cajon, allowing families to breathe easier. The owners will pay $85,000 to a family that filed a fair housing complaint after their grandson was prohibited from playing outside.

Driver who died after car went over La Jolla cliff into ocean identified

David Scott Lapensee, 76, died after his vehicle plunged off a cliff into the ocean in La Jolla. Lifeguards rescued him within 13 minutes, but he was later pronounced dead at Scripps Memorial Hospital. Investigators aim to recover the car's crash recorder to determine the cause of the accident.

San Diego County investigates salmonella outbreak linked to Clairemont restaurant

San Diego County health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café, with 14 confirmed and probable cases reported. Five individuals have been hospitalized, and the café has voluntarily closed while cooperating with health officials. The investigation aims to determine the outbreak's source and ensure there is no ongoing risk before the restaurant can reopen.

Third hidden camera found in El Cajon fire station as city faces complaints over investigation

A third hidden camera was discovered at Fire Station 9 in El Cajon, aggravating existing complaints about the city's investigation into previous camera findings in women's bunkrooms. Four female EMTs filed legal claims against the city and ambulance service provider American Medical Response, alleging inadequate investigation and a lack of communication regarding safety measures. The ongoing investigation has prompted local officials to consider legislative changes to address surveillance issues.

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