Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Business closures in Pierce County during 2024 have revealed significant challenges in the retail and manufacturing sectors, impacting numerous employees and customers. Notable companies, including Founders Choice Cabinets and Harbor Custom Development, have ceased operations, highlighting economic instability in the region.
A tragic murder-suicide incident in Oregon claimed the lives of 16-year-old Larissa 'Juniper' Alexander and her 45-year-old father, Nicholas Alexander. Authorities found their bodies during a welfare check after concerns were raised about their well-being. The Hillsboro School District expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a beloved student and is committed to supporting those affected.
Clifford Lee Mahan, a Tacoma man, was arrested for firing a pistol at a school patrol officer in July 2024 during an illegal drug transaction intervention. Mahan narrowly missed the officer, leading to a police investigation that identified him through DNA evidence. He faces charges of assault and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Inflation is significantly affecting Tacoma and Pierce County, leading to higher costs for groceries, gas, and housing. Economist Andrew Monaco explains that the region's desirability and influx of high-income households are driving prices up, while limited housing supply and high construction costs worsen the situation. The article also discusses how global oil prices and state taxes contribute to elevated gas prices in Washington.
An 18-year-old boy testified in the sex-abuse trial of Jacob 'Jake' Jackson, a former Sumner High School basketball coach, detailing how Jackson groomed him and other victims through manipulative communications, escalating from basketball advice to requests for explicit photos. This trial underscores the critical need for safeguarding measures for minors in sports.
Tim Reynon, a former Puyallup Tribal Council member, has been appointed by Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson to lead the Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs in Washington, starting January 15. Reynon aims to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities in the state.
In 2024, Tacoma faced several extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall from atmospheric rivers, geomagnetic storms that revealed the aurora borealis, and a significant heat wave that heightened wildfire risks. These occurrences underscore the community's vulnerability to natural hazards and their impact. The article, edited by McClatchy journalists with AI assistance, offers a thorough overview of these events.
A multi-vehicle collision involving a semi-truck caused significant traffic delays on northbound Interstate 5 in Tacoma on Friday night. The Washington State Patrol reported no major injuries and advised drivers to seek alternate routes until the incident was cleared shortly after.
A multi-vehicle collision on northbound Interstate 5 in Tacoma blocked most lanes on Friday night, causing traffic delays. Fortunately, no major injuries were reported, and the scene was cleared shortly after with no suspicion of impairment among the drivers involved.
Inflation is driving up the cost of living in Tacoma and Pierce County, particularly for housing, groceries, and gas. Economist Andrew Monaco discusses factors such as an influx of wealthy newcomers and potential tariffs from President-elect Trump that could further increase prices, highlighting the complexities of the local economy.