Your trusted source for local Phoenix, AZ news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A federal judge approved the U.S. government's request to force-feed Iranian asylum seeker Mehrad Asadi Eidivand, who is on a hunger strike in ICE detention in Arizona. Eidivand's attorney plans to challenge his detention, citing his fear for his life as a Christian in Iran. His health has deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of acute kidney injury during his first hunger strike.
U.S. Route 191 in eastern Arizona, known as the "Morenci 500," has experienced a surge in dangerous driving incidents, prompting local law enforcement to enhance patrols and enforce a zero-tolerance policy for speeding. In 2024, the highway recorded nearly 60 non-injury collisions and 35 injuries, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures. Sheriff Eric Ellison emphasizes that reckless driving has become a key issue in his campaign.
A teen motorcyclist, Annabel Force, died in a crash near Phoenix, and her family suspects another vehicle may have caused the accident. The 19-year-old's motorcycle went missing from the scene, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Her family is seeking information and witnesses to understand the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Arizona Lottery players can participate in various games, including Mega Millions and Powerball, with recent jackpots reaching historic levels. Proceeds from these games support higher education, health services, and environmental conservation in the state. Winners can claim prizes through designated Arizona Lottery offices or by mail.
Queen Creek Unified School District will launch the My Ride K-12 app for parents in the 2025-26 school year. The app offers live updates on school bus locations, delays, and allows parents to track their child's ridership history. This initiative aims to reduce anxiety related to school transportation.
The Arizona Senate approved a bill on June 19 allowing developers to use water rights from retired farmland for urban housing in Pinal and Maricopa counties. This bipartisan measure aims to reduce overall water usage while supporting urban growth and ensuring water security. Amendments to the bill address previous concerns over groundwater depletion.
The Phoenix City Council rejected a citizen petition aimed at limiting immigration enforcement practices by police, voting 8-1 on June 18. Advocates argued the changes would reduce racial profiling and unnecessary arrests, while city officials cited ongoing police reforms. The proposed amendments included prioritizing citations for nonviolent offenses and eliminating low-level traffic stops.
Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S., is celebrated annually on June 19. Numerous events are planned across Arizona in 2025, including activities in Tempe, Goodyear, Chandler, and Phoenix. These celebrations honor Black history and culture through various community events.
A 23-year-old man, Francis Alcantar-Chavez, died after shooting a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper during a pursuit. He was a suspect in the double homicide of his mother and stepfather in Arizona, whose bodies were discovered on June 15. The trooper sustained minor injuries and is expected to recover.
Arizona lawmakers are negotiating two competing budget proposals, with the Senate's $17.6 billion plan gaining bipartisan support and the House's $17.3 billion plan passing strictly along GOP lines. Key features of the Senate plan include road improvements, public safety enhancements, and increased funding for schools. The final budget must be settled by June 30 to address concerns over a small surplus and potential federal budget cuts.