Your trusted source for local Portland, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Vancouver Public Schools has announced that charges against Shadbreon Gatson, a teacher at Hudson's Bay High School, have been dropped due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. Gatson had been accused of a sexual relationship with a student in 2013 when she was 16 years old. The school district is continuing its investigation while Gatson remains on leave.
The Columbia County Sheriff's Office is investigating a bomb threat made to the courthouse in St. Helens, Oregon. The courthouse was evacuated and searched, but no suspicious items were found, and it has since reopened. Authorities are working to identify the caller responsible for the threat.
Oregon state veterinarian Dr. Ryan Scholz has reported a rare case of bird flu transmission in a house cat in Washington County, which died after consuming raw turkey cat food. Cat owners are advised to discard specific food products to prevent further risks.
The Portland Japanese Garden has introduced winter decorations for the first time in 44 years, aimed at protecting its trees during the colder months. These decorations involve ropes that lift branches, helping them support the weight of snow and frost, showcasing the garden's commitment to tree preservation.
Portland residents can recycle their Christmas trees by following specific guidelines. It's crucial to remove all decorations before disposal. For detailed recycling instructions based on location, visit Oregon's Metro website.
Two young sisters, aged 1 and 4, were safely found in Portland after being reported missing in an Amber Alert issued by Washington state. Their biological father, Andrew Womack-Eady, was detained by the Portland Police Bureau. Both girls are unharmed, and arrangements are being made for their return home.
West Salem residents are urged to limit water usage due to significant sewer main breaks affecting the local wastewater system. City officials are actively working on repairs and have advised the community to minimize water use to prevent further environmental strain.
The Oregon Department of Forestry is processing $88 million in vendor payments after the record-breaking 2024 wildfire season, which burned 1.9 million acres. State officials stress the urgency of compensating all vendors and firefighters promptly.
On December 27, 2024, a powerline collapse in Vancouver, Washington, caused multiple fires and injuries, leading to a rapid response from the Vancouver Fire Department. During the rescue of a victim, three firefighters were shocked by high voltage. The incident is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal's Office.
Portland is promoting safe New Year's Eve celebrations by offering discounts on rides and free public transit services. The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is providing up to $20 off rides from taxis, Lyft, and Uber, as well as free rides on TriMet, Portland Streetcar, and C-Tran to encourage responsible partying.