Your trusted source for local Pullman, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Pullman selected Sean Wells as its next city administrator, pending confirmation by the City Council on August 26. Wells, currently the public works director, will replace Mike Urban, whose resignation has sparked controversy regarding his termination. Urban was exonerated of accusations in April and is in negotiations with the city to resolve employment disputes.
The Central Cherry Fire near Dusty expanded to nearly 6,600 acres, prompting Level 2 evacuations. Fire crews, local farmers, and air resources are actively working to contain the blaze, which is currently 40% contained. Residents are urged to evacuate if they feel threatened, regardless of official notifications.
Idaho ranks as the safest state with the lowest property crime rate, according to a report by SafeHome.org. Moscow, despite recent tragic events, has the lowest violent crime rate in the state, with 15 incidents per 100,000 people.
Firefighters in Whitman County battle the Central Ferry Fire near Dusty, which has consumed 5,500 acres and remains 0% contained. Level 2 evacuations are underway, and smoke from another fire in Olympic National Park has affected local air quality. Cooler temperatures and rain are expected this weekend, potentially aiding firefighting efforts.
The Pullman City Council authorized negotiations with former City Administrator Mike Urban to resolve employment disputes. Urban was placed on administrative leave in March due to false accusations but was exonerated in April. Interim city administrator Jeff Elbracht is currently filling Urban's role.
Firefighter Justin Shaw, injured by a falling tree last summer, aims to return home this fall after suffering a traumatic brain injury. His family is modifying their home to ensure it is ADA compliant, allowing him greater safety and privacy. Contributions for the home remodel can be made through a fundraising site.
A driver transporting newspapers crashed his semitruck on U.S. Highway 195 near Rosalia early Wednesday morning, injuring 75-year-old Eugene “Pat” Long. He swerved to avoid a deer, causing the truck to roll down an embankment; he was later flown to a Spokane hospital and is expected to recover.
Victor J. Gray, 53, faces federal charges of second-degree murder and firearm use in the death of neighbor Melvin P. Williamson Jr. Gray claims self-defense after Williamson allegedly attacked his significant other. The case, initially dropped by state prosecutors, has moved to Idaho’s U.S. District Court.
A 75-year-old driver crashed his semitruck while transporting newspapers on U.S. Highway 195 near Rosalia, sustaining injuries after swerving to avoid a deer. Eugene "Pat" Long was airlifted to a Spokane hospital, where he is expected to recover. Tribune Editor Nathan Alford emphasized the importance of community support during this incident.
Pullman City Council approved a grant application for a traffic signal at Center Street and Grand Avenue, aiming to improve safety and traffic flow at a busy intersection. The $1.6 million grant from Washington’s Transportation Improvement Board will contribute to a total project cost of $1.8 million. Design work is expected to begin in 2026 if awarded.