📰 Magic Valley News Update | Thursday, July 23

🚨 Twin Falls & Jerome Police Investigations

A woman is recovering after being shot, while a man was found dead from a gunshot wound inside a home near Twin Falls Wednesday night. Police say the injured woman was found at the front door and transported to a local hospital. The investigation remains ongoing.

🔹 Jerome Police are also investigating what appears to be an accidental shooting on South Birch Street. Officers say there is no ongoing threat to the public. A Jerome man has been detained for questioning, and the victim was taken to St. Luke’s for treatment.

💥 Possible TNT Found in Jerome

Two Jerome homes were evacuated yesterday after a resident discovered an old container labeled “TNT.” Bomb specialists from Twin Falls safely removed the material, and the area has since reopened. Authorities say the situation was handled safely.

🔥 Wildfire Investigations Continue

Investigators have determined the causes of several recent Blaine County wildfires:
🎯 The Ohio Fire was reportedly sparked by ammunition while recreational shooting.
🎆 The Martin Fire was linked to leftover Fourth of July fireworks.
🏕️ The Cabin Creek Fire was caused by an unattended campfire.

💰 Idaho Paychecks Are Growing

Good news for Idaho workers! 📈 New federal data shows the state’s average hourly wage increased nearly 5% in 2025 to $29.41 per hour, ranking Idaho third in the nation for wage growth. Employment also climbed by more than 12,000 jobs over the past year.

🎓 School Spending Increases

Idaho schools are investing more in students this year, with average spending rising about $600 per student to nearly $13,700 statewide. Among larger districts, Twin Falls spends about $10,400 per student.

🍔 In-N-Out Opens Tomorrow!

The wait is almost over! 🎉 In-N-Out Burger officially opens its new Twin Falls location tomorrow on Blue Lakes Boulevard North.

⏰ Doors open at 10:30 a.m.
👥 Around 90 employees
💵 Starting pay: $17.50/hour

🚗 Fatal Crash on I-15

A 31-year-old Pocatello man has died following a crash on Interstate 15 in Oneida County. Idaho State Police say his van struck an unoccupied disabled vehicle before rolling into the median. The driver was ejected and later died at the hospital.

🏅 Sports

🚴 Spudman Turns 40!

One of Southern Idaho’s signature events returns this Saturday! The 40th Annual Spudman Triathlon in Burley has attracted more than 2,500 athletes and continues to raise thousands of dollars each year for local charities and community projects. 💙

🏀 CSI Adds Standout Recruit

The College of Southern Idaho men’s basketball team has signed Cutter Beus, a 6-foot-10 standout from Melba High School. The former Conference Player of the Year returns from his LDS mission to join the Golden Eagles after an incredible prep career.

🎓🏃 Boise State Excels On and Off the Track

Thirteen Boise State student-athletes earned USTFCCCA All-Academic Honors, while both the men’s and women’s teams received All-Academic Team recognition.

🏆 Hall of Fame Honor

Longtime Idaho State coach Brian Janssen will be inducted into the 2026 Idaho State Athletics Hall of Fame after three decades leading Bengals track and cross country.

🏈 Broncos Preparing for 2026

Boise State football is emphasizing accountability, consistency and stronger special teams heading into fall camp. Quarterback Maddux Madsen returns to lead the Broncos into a challenging season opener at Oregon.

🌞 Weather

🥵 Summer heat isn’t letting up!

Today: ☀️ Sunny with a high near 96°. Patchy smoke is possible this morning and again later today.

Friday: 🔥 Hotter with a high near 99° and afternoon wind gusts up to 20 mph.

🌡️ Expect hot, dry conditions to continue through the weekend with highs staying in the upper 90s. Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles. 💧🐶