Your Daily Briefing – 04/09/2026

MAGIC VALLEY NEWS

LEGISLATURE – Immigration Bills Stall

On the final day of Idaho’s legislative session, frustration surfaced as more than a dozen immigration-related bills failed to advance. Divisions within Republican leadership, along with concerns raised by law enforcement and industry groups, ultimately prevented any of the proposals from reaching the governor’s desk.

MILITARY – Idaho Guard Deployment

The Idaho Air National Guard’s 124th Fighter Wing deployed in late March to U.S. Central Command for Operation EPIC FURY. Officials have not confirmed how many Airmen or aircraft were involved. The move follows a 2025 deployment of more than 300 Guardsmen and A-10 aircraft, as the Air Force continues transitioning to F-16s.

ECONOMY – Gas Prices Climb Despite Oil Drop

Gas prices remain stubbornly high across Idaho even as crude oil prices have dropped nearly $18 per barrel following a U.S.–Iran ceasefire. AAA reports the statewide average at $4.32 per gallon—up more than a dollar from last month—ranking Idaho as the ninth most expensive state. Relief may take time despite falling oil costs.

COMMUNITY – Shoshone Planning the Future

The City of Shoshone is updating its comprehensive plan for the next 20 years and is asking residents to participate. Community input on housing, transportation, and services will help guide future funding decisions. A public spaghetti dinner and survey are scheduled for April 16 at the community center.

COURTS – “Kill List” Trial Underway

The jury trial for Jonathan Daniel Harms and Jolene Lynn Harms is now underway in Ada County. The couple faces more than 120 charges tied to an alleged “kill list” threatening dozens of individuals. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty. The trial is expected to last approximately nine days.

CRIME – Deadly Shooting Investigation

Authorities have identified 63-year-old Richard Todd Forrest of Pocatello as the man shot and killed by police following a deadly incident in Power County. Two victims—Brandon Lee Madden and Amanda Ann Christian—were killed, while others were injured. The investigation remains ongoing, and no motive has been released.

ENVIRONMENT – Mussel Monitoring Increases

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture is ramping up monitoring for quagga mussels on the Snake River as boating season begins. Officials say the affected area decreased by about 50% last year, but stress the importance of cleaning, draining, and drying all watercraft. Hot wash stations are now open in Twin Falls and Shoshone.

SPORTS

BASEBALL – Kimberly Dominates

Kimberly swept Gooding in a doubleheader, winning 8-6 and 19-2. Cash Gardner delivered a strong start with no hits allowed and six strikeouts over four innings. Dillon Chiatovich added a key double to secure the lead.
Other scores: Buhl defeated Filer 5-1, and Glenns Ferry beat Notus 12-1.

SOFTBALL – Busy Day Across the Valley

Wood River split with Mountain Home, losing 6-1 before winning 13-1. Twin Falls swept Canyon Ridge 10-0 and 15-3. Jerome picked up two wins over Minico 10-6 and 15-5, while Kimberly shut out Declo 16-0.

LOCAL SCHEDULE – Packed Slate Today

Baseball: Glenns Ferry hosts Lighthouse Christian at 2:00. Minico travels to Burley at 4:30, and Soda Springs faces Wendell.
Softball: Twin Falls at Burley and Mountain Home at Minico begin at 3:00. Jerome hosts Wood River at 3:30, with additional games at 5:00 and 5:30.

BOISE STATE – Academic Honors

Boise State football placed 11 players on the National Football Foundation Hampshire Honor Society, recognizing excellence in academics and athletics. The program now has 82 all-time selections, ranking eighth in the FBS.

CSI – National Recognition

College of Southern Idaho’s Savannah Stoker was named First Team NJCAA All-American, with Ashley Garner earning Third Team honors. The Golden Eagles finished 29-5 with an Elite Eight appearance.
On the men’s side, Ace Reiser earned First Team All-American honors after leading CSI to a 34-3 record and national runner-up finish.

LEGACY – Coach Rogers Retires

CSI women’s basketball coach Randy Rogers is retiring after 24 seasons. He leaves as the program’s all-time winningest coach with 590 victories, 12 Region 18 titles, and multiple national tournament appearances.

BRONCOS – Winning Streak Continues

Boise State softball swept Utah State 11-6 and 13-2. Marissa Gonzalez led with three home runs and seven RBIs. The Broncos have now won seven straight over the Aggies and will head to Grand Canyon next.