Washington Man Arrested After Being Found Lying Drunk on the Interstate
A Washington man was arrested on July 18 after being found drunk and lying in the middle of Interstate 84 near La Grande. 43 year old Jesse Moore of Mead, was discovered blocking traffic and later found on the interstate’s westbound side. He displayed signs of intoxication and was taken into custody for disorderly conduct, […]
Read MorePilot Escapes Injury in Local Plane Crash
A local pilot escaped injury after an emergency landing near La Grande Airport. The pilot, flying a friend’s Piper Cub, reported engine failure and was unable to reach the runway. After attempting to land in a field obstructed by power lines, he settled in another field where the plane flipped on its back. The pilot, […]
Read MoreLa Grande Man Nabbed After Wild Crime Spree
A La Grande man has been arrested after a crime spree across La Grande and Grant County. 25 year old Storm Mensch’s lawless spree began on July 13 with the theft of a vehicle belonging to his ex-girlfriend. He was identified from surveillance footage and the car was later recovered. On July 18, Mensch was […]
Read MoreLone Rock Fire Now “megafire”
The Lone Rock Fire has escalated to a megafire, prompting evacuation notices across multiple counties. As of today, the blaze, which began in Condon, has rapidly expanded, threatening homes and infrastructure. Firefighters are battling the flames under challenging conditions, with high temperatures and strong winds. Efforts are ongoing to control the fire and prevent further […]
Read MoreAir Quality Alert Issued
An air quality alert is in effect for Crook, Grant, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, and Wheeler counties until Wednesday at 2 p.m. The National Weather Service reports that wildfires and forecasted conditions will push air quality to unhealthy levels. Pollutants from the smoke can irritate eyes, noses, and exacerbate heart and lung conditions. Residents are advised […]
Read MoreCougar Creek Fire Exceeds 8,000 Acres
The Cougar Creek Fire, currently burning north of Wallowa County, had grown to over 8,000 acres as of Monday morning. An evacuation warning remains in effect for the Grouse Flat area as the fire continues to spread west. Officials advise residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders if issued. Meanwhile, Interstate 84, which was […]
Read MoreDetours in Place Due to Wildfires
I-84 eastbound was closed from La Grande to Baker City due to wildfire activity east of Baker City, according to TripCheck. The highway was shut in both directions between Baker City and Ontario. The Oregon Department of Transportation was advising travelers to delay trips or choose alternate routes on main highways. Drivers are cautioned against […]
Read MoreUnion County Enacts Burn Ban
Union County has enacted a county-wide burn ban effective immediately, following a unanimous vote by the Board of Commissioners. The ban, recommended by the Union County Fire Defense Board, prohibits all outdoor fires except for regulated agricultural burning and gas or pellet barbecues. Additionally, forest officials have tightened restrictions on lands managed by the Oregon […]
Read MoreThird Time’s the Charm??
51 year old George Brooks of Spokane Valley, was arrested three times over two days for various offenses in Union County. His first arrest on July 9 involved trespassing at an ODOT weigh station. Later that day, Brooks was linked to a stolen Nissan Altima found near River Bend Youth Authority. On July 10, he […]
Read MoreJohn Collins Chosen As Grand Marshal
The Union County Fair has announced John Collins as the 2024 Grand Marshal. Collins, who moved to La Grande in 1967, has made significant contributions to the community through sports, real estate, and agriculture. Known for his baseball career and role in the Eastern Sports Hall of Fame, Collins has also been a dedicated supporter […]
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