Your trusted source for local El Cajon, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Federal immigration enforcement has intensified its operations in El Cajon, targeting local businesses suspected of employing undocumented workers. This crackdown raises concerns among business owners and community members about the potential impact on the local economy and the lives of employees. The enforcement actions reflect ongoing national debates surrounding immigration policy and enforcement practices.
A babysitter in Kansas discovered a man hiding under a child's bed while checking for "monsters" after the child expressed fear. The suspect, Martin Villalobos Jr., had a protection order against him to stay away from the residence. Following a brief pursuit, he was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated kidnapping and child endangerment.
Kohl's is closing 27 underperforming stores across the U.S., including two locations in San Diego County. The closures, effective March 29, 2025, are part of the company's strategy to focus on profitable operations while offering affected employees severance packages or opportunities for transfer. The decision reflects Kohl's commitment to long-term growth despite some locations not meeting performance expectations.
Federal law enforcement executed a search warrant at a business in El Cajon, targeting employment violations related to undocumented immigrants. The operation, part of a nationwide initiative, resulted in several arrests, including the general manager of the business. Investigators allege that the company knowingly employed individuals using fraudulent documents.
Federal immigration enforcement officials recently conducted a significant operation targeting a business in El Cajon, raising concerns within the local community. The enforcement action is part of a broader initiative aimed at addressing immigration violations across the region. The operation has sparked discussions about the implications for local businesses and immigrant populations.
The San Diego Zoo is inviting the community to participate in naming two sloth bear cubs born in December. The cubs, one male and one female, can be seen alongside their mother, Shala, in their habitat. Voting is open online until April 1, with the winning names announced the following day.
California has introduced updated fire hazard severity maps for San Diego County, marking a significant 26% increase in the area classified as very high hazard. The changes reflect the growing severity of wildfires in the region, as highlighted by California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant. New hazard designations have also been added for cities like Imperial Beach, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, emphasizing the need for residents to take precautions.
NBC 7, Telemundo 20, and Comcast NBCUniversal are accepting applications for the 2025 NBCUniversal Local Impact Grants, offering $227,272 in unrestricted funds to eligible nonprofits in the San Diego area. The program, now in its eighth year, focuses on three grant categories: Youth Education & Empowerment, Next Generation Storytellers, and Community Engagement. Interested organizations can apply between March 11 and April 11, with winners announced later in the year.
El Cajon is set to undergo significant revitalization efforts aimed at transforming its quiet downtown into a vibrant destination. City leaders have partnered with a company known for revitalizing Little Italy, focusing on developing market-rate housing and improving local amenities. Residents express excitement for a more dynamic downtown, envisioning diverse dining options and enhanced community spaces.
Richard Anthony Leyva, 24, has pleaded not guilty to charges including murder after allegedly killing his mother, Jamison Webster, in El Cajon. The incident, which involved police pursuit with Webster's body in the trunk of her car, has drawn significant attention due to the gruesome nature of the crime. Leyva faces a possible sentence of up to life in prison if convicted.