Your trusted source for local Phoenix, AZ news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Social media influencer Emilie Kiser seeks to block the release of police records related to her 3-year-old son's drowning. Kiser's legal team aims to redact details that explain why police recommended child abuse charges against her husband, despite the Maricopa County Attorney's Office declining to prosecute.
Christina Marie Chapman, a 50-year-old Arizona resident, received over eight years in prison for aiding North Korea in exploiting over 300 U.S. companies, generating more than $17 million. She pleaded guilty to identity theft, wire fraud, and money laundering, as she helped North Korean IT workers secure remote jobs by falsifying identities. Chapman must forfeit nearly $285,000 and pay a judgment of $176,850.
The Trump administration announced the release of over $5 billion in withheld federal funding for public schools, alleviating concerns for Arizona educators. While crucial for programs like migrant education and teacher training, another funding source, the Secure Rural Schools Program, remains unapproved, affecting rural districts.
Sedona customers of the Arizona Water Company will face a 45% increase in their water rates to cover the $6 million cost of burying a new water storage tank. The Arizona Corporation Commission determined that Sedona should bear the higher costs due to local aesthetic preferences. The tank is necessary to meet the region's drinking water and fire flow demands.
Arizona Lottery players can participate in several draw games, including Powerball and Mega Millions, with recent jackpots reaching historic levels. Funds raised support higher education, health services, and environmental conservation in the state. Winners can claim prizes at various lottery offices or through the mail.
Arizona hurdler Freddie Crittenden prepares for the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon, from July 31 to August 3. Despite financial issues with the Grand Slam Track league, he remains focused on achieving a personal best and aiming for a world record in the 110-meter hurdles. Crittenden currently ranks No. 9 in the world and is a strong contender for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.
Two wildfires near the Grand Canyon's North Rim are becoming more contained, with the White Sage Fire at 81% containment and the Dragon Bravo Fire at 26%. U.S. Route 89A has reopened, but Route 67 remains closed as firefighters work to control the blazes that have scorched over 94,000 acres.
A Phoenix streetwear shop, Restock Ave, was burglarized through a smash-and-grab early on July 24, with suspects using a stolen vehicle to gain access. The store's owner, Chris Sotelo, expects repairs to take two to three months, impacting back-to-school sales. Despite the closure, the online store remains operational.
Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and 31st Avenue will close at Loop 101 from July 25 to 28 for construction projects. Drivers should use detour routes and consult az511.gov for real-time traffic updates. No full freeway closures are scheduled in metro Phoenix during this period.
The Trump administration released $110 million in federal education grants for Arizona after bipartisan pressure from congressional Democrats and Republicans. The funding, crucial for public schools, had been frozen, affecting hiring and educational programs just weeks before the new school year. Arizona officials hailed the release as a victory for students and educators.