The Local News 07/31/26 – Kat Country 106

🚨 Tragic Fall Near Twin Falls Visitor Center
An 18-year-old man has died after falling approximately 150 feet while climbing canyon rocks near the Twin Falls Visitor Center early yesterday morning. Authorities say he was with five others when he slipped. The Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office is reminding everyone to stay on designated trails unless you’re an experienced climber with proper safety equipment. 💙

🏗️ Twin Falls Recommended for Opportunity Zone
Twin Falls, Burley and Jerome have been recommended for Idaho’s next round of federal Opportunity Zones. The proposed Twin Falls area includes downtown, Main Avenue and Shoshone Street, with tax incentives aimed at boosting investment, housing and economic development. Governor Brad Little is expected to make final selections by September 28. 📈

🌡️ Heat Claims Three Idaho Lives
Idaho health officials have confirmed the state’s first heat-related deaths of the year. Three residents over the age of 55 from southern Idaho communities have died due to heat complications. Stay hydrated 💧, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat ☀️, and check on family, friends and neighbors.

✈️ ICE Flights Continue from Magic Valley Airport
A Twin Falls resident says she’s been documenting ICE detainee flights leaving Magic Valley Regional Airport twice a week. City officials say Homeland Security has operated flights from the airport since at least the 1990s.

⚠️ Mudslides Impact Trail Creek Road
Several overnight mudslides have left up to five inches of mud on portions of Trail Creek Road in Blaine County. Road crews are assessing damage, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes if possible. 🚧

📷 Flock Camera Lawsuits Filed
Twin Falls and Idaho Falls are facing tort claims over the use of Flock license plate cameras. The claims allege license plate data was used in ways that violate Idaho privacy laws. Idaho Falls has already approved contract changes, while Twin Falls is reviewing possible updates.

🦠 Measles Cases Continue to Rise
Idaho has now reported 10 measles cases this year as national case numbers reach their highest level in 35 years. Health officials are especially concerned with schools preparing to reopen and declining vaccination rates.

⚖️ New Details Released in Caldwell Murder Case
New court documents allege surveillance video shows 18-year-old Alissa Huerta intentionally striking 19-year-old Jade Ramirez with a vehicle following a planned fight. Investigators also say they recovered a deleted recording discussing the incident. The case continues through the court system.

🏈 SPORTS

🚤 Centennial Park Boat Ramp Closed
The motorized boat launch at Centennial Park is temporarily closed while crews inspect possible ramp damage. Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards can still access the water. Officials will announce when the ramp reopens.

🏆 Twin Falls Honors Athletic Trainer
Twin Falls High School has renamed its athletic training room in honor of longtime trainer Allyn Reynolds, recognizing more than three decades of dedication to Bruin athletes. 👏

🏀 CSI Adds Idaho Basketball Standout
Former Preston High School star Reggie Larsen is joining the College of Southern Idaho men’s basketball team for the 2026-27 season after playing at Salt Lake Community College. 🦅

🥎 Boise State Softball Adds Pitching Talent
The Broncos have signed two standout right-handed pitchers as they prepare for their first season in the Pac-12.

🏈 Idaho State Football Continues Fall Camp
The Bengals completed their second fall practice and return several nationally recognized players as they prepare for their August 29 season opener against VMI.