JC NEWS by Matt Jarvis

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Sunrise/Sunset, Coos Bay, OR
Coos Bay, OR, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025 – Sunrise: 7:44 a.m., and Sunset: 4:42 p.m., offering eight-hours and 58-minutes of daylight.

Tides, Coos Bay, OR
Tides for the Coos Bay, OR Estuary, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025 – High tide: 1:04 a.m., 5.82 ft.; Low tide: 5:49 a.m., 3.5 ft.; High tide: 11:41 a.m., 7.76 ft.; Low tide: 6:55 ft.

High Wind Warning South Coast
NWS release - High Wind Warning issued December 17 at 3:12PM PST until December 18 at 10:00PM PST by NWS Medford OR. * WHAT...South winds 40 to 50 mph with gusts up to 75 mph expected. * WHERE...Coastal headlands including along Highway 101 and the communities of Port Orford, Bandon, Charleston, and Lakeside. * WHEN...From 7 AM to 10 PM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...High winds may move loose debris, damage property and cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...The highest wind speeds are expected from Thursday evening and night.

Ongoing wind storm causing widespread road impacts across Oregon
ODOT release - Strong winds that began overnight are causing widespread impacts on roads across Oregon, including downed trees, fallen limbs and downed power lines. Conditions are expected to continue and may change or worsen as high winds persist throughout the day. ODOT crews have been out through the night responding statewide, clearing debris and downed trees where conditions allow and working closely with utility companies where power lines are involved. In areas where high winds are continuing and trees are still falling, it is not safe to begin clearing until conditions improve. Power outages may affect traffic signals, highway message signs and TripCheck cameras. Travelers should expect delays to continue throughout the day as cleanup and repairs progress. Road conditions, closures and impacts are changing quickly. Travelers should check Tripcheck.com for the latest information before heading out. Safety tips: Stay away from downed power lines and assume all lines are live. Treat intersections with dark traffic signals as four-way stops. Use extra caution while traveling, as trees and limbs may still be falling in windy conditions. Slow down and watch for crews and equipment working along roadways. Do not drive around closure points. Roads are closed because they are unsafe or impassable. ODOT has received reports of vehicles driving over downed trees and around closures, putting themselves and others at risk. Do not rely on GPS, which may direct drivers onto closed or unsafe roads. Be prepared for unexpected delays or detours. ODOT urges travelers to delay non-essential trips if possible and to plan ahead for changing conditions. Drivers can find the latest road conditions and weather information at TripCheck.com, which provides real-time updates.

Road Problems, No. Coast
ODOT report - ODOT: Valley, No. Coast, Wednesday, Dec. 17th: The coast and the Willamette Valley experienced high winds and heavy rain Tuesday night, Dec. 16th, with reports of downed trees and power lines on multiple highways. These conditions created road hazards and power outages. Drivers should use extra caution if they need to travel and check TripCheck.com before heading out to make sure their route is clear. Closures as of noon, Wednesday, Dec. 17th: OR 99E 2 miles north of Hubbard between mileposts 25 and 27 due to downed power lines. OR 99W in Amity at milepost 44 due to downed power lines. OR 126 starting five miles east of Vida between mileposts 26 and 44 due to downed power lines and trees. U.S. 20 at Shea Viewpoint between mileposts 51 and 71 due to downed trees and high winds. OR 34 at the intersection with U.S. 20 at milepost 58 due to downed power lines. OR 130 4 miles east of the intersection with U.S. 101 at milepost 3 due to downed power lines. OR 219 4 miles north of Newberg between mileposts 15 and 16 due to downed power lines. OR 221 4 miles south of Dayton between mileposts 5 and 7 due to downed power lines. OR 213 near Silver Falls State Park between mileposts 25 and 27 due to downed power lines and trees. More closures are possible as conditions change. Check TripCheck.com for the latest updates.

Landslide Risk Intensifies on Central Coast
OR Dept. of Emergency Management release - SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as landslide hazards increase across western Oregon, particularly in Lincoln County, where a significant landslide event continues to pose serious safety risks. The landslide, which began on December 12, has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The ground remains highly unstable, and the approaching atmospheric river is expected to worsen conditions. Oregon Department of Transportation geologists and engineers have been conducting aerial assessments using LIDAR and drone technology but have not been able to safely enter the site due to ongoing ground movement. Public Safety Warning for Lincoln County: Stay out of the landslide area, including the slope above and surrounding terrain. The ground is still settling and may shift without warning. Do not approach or disturb debris washing ashore along the Siletz River, Siletz Bay, or nearby beaches. It may be unstable and dangerous. If you find debris of a personal nature, please contact local law enforcement via non-emergency lines: Lincoln City Police Department: 541-994-3636; Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office: 541-265-0777. Please follow all evacuation alerts (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!) and know your evacuation routes. Emergency Response Updates: Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners. Highway 229 is closed between Milepost 14 and 15. No detour is available. Travelers should avoid the area and check TripCheck.com for updates. Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon: The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall in Oregon will be Thursday and Friday, then will shift further south during the weekend. Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and debris flows, especially in steep terrain and areas affected by recent wildfires. Debris Flow Safety Tips: Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr. Listen for unusual sounds like cracking trees or rumbling rocks. Watch water sources for sudden changes in flow or color. Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised. Be Prepared: Oregon communities can reduce landslide risks through land use planning and hazard mitigation strategies. Property owners in low lying areas in and around the landslide area may wish to consider purchasing flood insurance, as it is not normally a part of standard renters or homeowners insurance. It is important to note flood insurance applies only in limited cases involving certain debris flows. It generally does not cover landslides. However, officials do expect the atmospheric river to cause flooding in parts of Oregon, and it is a good time to make sure you have insurance coverage for both flooding and landslides. Contact your insurance agent, or connect with an insurance advocate at the Division for Financial Regulation’s.(DFR) Consumer Hotline 1-888-877-4894.

Pacific Power crews respond to outages related to overnight storms
Pacific Power release - PORTLAND, Ore.,— Pacific Power crews responded to widespread outages across Oregon and Washington related to a storm system that brought high winds and rain to the region, impacting roughly 50,000 customers Tuesday night, Dec. 16. Field crews actively worked to restore power in several areas, with the most significant impacts in Clatsop County and the mid-Willamette Valley. Due to severe storm damage, some customers in those areas may still be without power. “Our crews have been working hard around the clock to assess damage and make necessary repairs to get the power back on,” said Erik Brookhouse, vice president of system operations. “We understand losing power can be disruptive and inconvenient and we want to thank customers for their patience as our crews continue their work.” Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to?72 hours?without essential services.?? Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed: Update your contact information?so?we can reach you.?? Sign up to receive outage alerts?by text,?email?or phone.?? Restock?your?outage kit.?? Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.?? Track outages, update contact?info?and do more with?our?free app.? Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.??? Visit?PacificPower.net/Outages?for restoration estimates.?? As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous.?Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines and keep pets far away from those areas.??? Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.?

Oregon State Fire Marshal Warns of Carbon Monoxide Danger During Power Outages
OR State Fire Marshal release - SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon fire service, road crews, and power companies are busy cleaning up after a strong windstorm that swept across the Pacific Northwest. The storm knocked out power to thousands of Oregonians. The Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the danger of carbon monoxide when heating or temporarily powering your home. The deadly gas can build up quickly in your home. “Carbon monoxide is a deadly odorless and tasteless gas produced by generators, propane heaters, and other carbon burning sources,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Having working carbon monoxide alarms in your home and taking a few simple steps can mean the difference between life and death.” Carbon monoxide safety tips: Only use heaters intended for indoor use. Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home. Always use generators outdoors in a well-ventilated space, at least 20 feet from any building or opening. Ensure proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, and dryers. Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and check for any gaps, leaks, or rust. Never leave a car running in the garage. Always use barbecue grills outside away from all doors, windows, vents, and any building openings. Oregonians should also know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion. If you experience these symptoms, leave the area, get to fresh air, and call 9-1-1. First responders see an increase in calls related to carbon monoxide during the winter months. It is important to practice these carbon monoxide tips as more storms are forecasted over the coming week. For more tips, please check out the fire safety section of our website at oregon.gov/osfm or the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association.

Quake off South Coast
A 3.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded off the South Oregon Coast, Wednesday, Dec. 17. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake was located near the outer fault line of the two that run parallel with the Oregon Coast, west to southwest of Port Orford in Curry Co. and at a depth of six-miles.

Public Hearing on Repealing Rules
OR Dept. of Forestry release - SALEM, Ore. — A virtual rulemaking hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18 to gather public input on repealing rules relating to the administration of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF). Public comment can be made by joining the Teams meeting. The proposed repeal of rules was prompted by statute changes made by House Bill 3940 in the 2025 Regular Session. View the notice of proposed rulemaking for draft repealed rule language. Comments can also be sent to [email protected] until 5 p.m. on Jan. 1. For additional information, please visit ODF’s rulemaking activity webpage.

Hwy. 47 Fatal, Columbia Co.
Columbia County, Ore (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:42 P.M., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 47, near milepost 58, in Columbia County. The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Ram, operated by Todd Alan McCarthy (60) of Vernonia, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck a utility pole and trees before coming to a rest off the roadway. The operator of the Dodge (McCarthy) was declared deceased at the scene. The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Vernonia Police Depertment, Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Vernonia Fire Department, and ODOT.

Hwy. 199 Fatal, Josephine Co.
Josephine County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:53 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 9, in Josephine County. The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Econoline, operated by Dakota Mcleod Palmer (27) of Ashland, lost control of the vehicle, left the roadway, and struck a utility pole. The operator of the vehicle (Palmer) was transported to an area hospital with reported minor injuries. A passenger of the vehicle, Kyle Dewayne King (50) of Elgin (TX), was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital. The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation. OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Rural Metro Fire Department, and ODOT.

Hwy. 97 Fatal, Deschutes Co.
Deschutes County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 5:34 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 127, in Deschutes County. The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler Pacifica, operated by William Longhway Sargent (79) of Bend, crossed into the northbound lanes for unknown reasons and sideswiped a northbound Landrover Range Rover, operated by John Bowman Browning III (18) of Redmond, and a Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Joseph Anthony Russo (25) of Terrebonne, before striking a northbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Johnny Edward Jantzen Jr. (61) of Red Bluff (CA), head-on. The operator of the Chrysler (Sargent) was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the Landrover (Browning III), Chevrolet (Russo), and Freightliner (Jantzen Jr.) were reportedly uninjured. The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

Hwy. 97 Fatal, Klamath Co.
Klamath County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 6:40 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 255, in Klamath County. The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Gordon Travis Gilmer (37) of Sacramento (CA), lost control, entered the northbound lane, and struck a Toyota Hilux, operated by Triston Charles Morrow (26) of Chiloquin, head-on. The operator of the Toyota (Morrow) was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the Chevrolet (Gilmer) and passenger, Christian Octavio Rodriguez (28) of Rosamond (CA), suffered reported minor injuries. A second passenger of the Chevrolet, James Devon Cozart Jr. (19) of Rancho Cordova (CA) was reportedly uninjured. The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation. OSP was assisted by Chiloquin Fire and ODOT.

DUI Overtime Coverage in Lane Co.
Lane Co. SO release - The Lane County Sheriff’s Office does not have a dedicated traffic team or deputy assigned to DUI enforcement due to lack of funding. However, our deputies are committed to the safety of our community, and that includes our roadways. December through January 1st, deputies will be conducting targeted DUI enforcement on state grant-funded overtime, including overtime patrols during and after the UO football game on December 20th. Please don’t be their next traffic stop! Plan your safe ride home ahead of time; If you drink or use drugs, do not drive for any reason; If you know someone has been drinking or using drugs, don't let them drive; If you host a party with alcohol, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver; And please, always wear your seatbelt! Drive safe this holiday season! Last week, deputies arrested two impaired drivers. We hope that’s a sign people are making good choices. On Monday, December 8th just before midnight, a deputy observed a vehicle driving poorly in the area of Highway 126 and Territorial Road, Veneta. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver, Cesar Figuero Mendoza, 47, of Eugene. The deputy observed signs Mendoza was impaired. After additional investigation, Mendoza was arrested for DUI. On December 14th at 8 p.m., deputies responded to a residence on Pheasant Boulevard, Springfield, after a resident observed a vehicle run into his parked car. The driver, Steven Anthony Cvitanovich, 58, of Springfield, was less than polite with the victim and refused to provide him with any information. Cvitanovich went to a nearby residence instead. Deputies contacted Cvitanovich. After additional investigation, he was arrested for DUII and Failure to Perform Duties of a Driver – Property Damage.

Early-Morning House Fire in Empire District
City of Coos Bay release - December 17, 2025 – Coos Bay firefighters responded to a house fire at 1450 Holloway Mews in the Empire District at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. First-arriving crews found heavy smoke coming from the rear of the structure and flames coming from the roof. As hose lines were deployed to the back of the home, the deck area was fully involved and fire had extended into the main portion of the house. Firefighters quickly achieved an initial knockdown within minutes. Design features of the house created challenges during overhaul, with multiple ceiling voids concealing hot spots that required additional time to fully extinguish. No injuries were reported. Coos Bay Fire was assisted through an automatic aid agreement with Charleston Fire. Bay Cities Ambulance and Pacific Power also assisted at the scene. The cause of the fire was determined to be an electrical failure involving an exterior appliance. Estimated damage to the home and contents is approximately $600,000. If you would like any additional information about this fire, contact the fire department at 541-269-1191.

Arrest Leads to Coos Bay Male Spitting on Deputy
CCSO release - On December 16, 2025, at approximately 5:58 PM, Deputy Z. Smith was patrolling the area of Cape Arago Highway and Robertson Road in Coos Bay when he encountered an individual walking in the middle of the roadway. The individual was later identified as Clifton Walker, age 33. Deputy Smith issued a verbal warning to Walker regarding the hazards of walking in the roadway. During this interaction, North Coos Dispatch informed Deputy Smith of probable cause for Walker's arrest stemming from charges issued by the North Bend Police Department. Deputy Smith informed Walker that he was under arrest for the offenses related to the North Bend charges. Walker resisted arrest on the roadside, leading to a brief struggle on the ground. Deputy Smith successfully placed Walker in handcuffs just as Deputy Converse arrived to assist. Walker was then secured in the rear of the patrol vehicle, where he continued disruptive behavior. He repeatedly kicked the interior of the vehicle's door, resulting in bending and denting at the top. Deputy Smith attempted to de-escalate the situation verbally, but Walker responded by spitting on him. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) evaluated Walker on scene. He was subsequently transported to the Coos County Jail, where he was booked and lodged on the original charges from the North Bend Police Department, as well as additional charges from this incident: Aggravated Harassment, Disorderly Conduct 2, Resisting Arrest, and Criminal Mischief 1. “Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”

UEMV
According to an entry on the MPPD log for Dec. 16, 6:35 a.m., 400 block Willow St., “unlawful entry into MV.”

Disorderly
According to an entry on the CQPD log for Dec. 16, 6 p.m., 600 block No. 10th St., 50-year old Ryan Layton Cox charged with Disorderly Conduct, “Cox transported to CCJ.”

Illegal Camping, NB
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 16, 7:32 a.m., 1900 block McPherson Ave., 62-year old Lisa Robinett & 58-year old Jesse Manzanares both “Ticket.” At 7:39 a.m., 1300 block Sherman Ave., Simpson Park, “illegal camping.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 16, 8:28 a.m., 2300 block Brussells St., 33-year old Natasha Lynn Cummings arrested on NBPD warrant charging FTA on PCS Meth & Felon in Possession of Restricted Weapon, additional warrant for FTA II, “transported CCJ, refer PCS Meth, False Info to LE & Criminal Trespass.”

DUII
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 16, 1:46 p.m., 1600 block Virginia Ave., “medical call,” 38-year old Michelle Renee Leavy charged with DUII>

Disorderly
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 16, 3:53 p.m., 2200 block Newmark St., “intoxicated subject trying to fight people,” 50-year old Ryan Layton Cox charged with Criminal Trespass & Disorderly Conduct II, “transported CCJ.”

Illegal Camping, CB
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 16, 6:08 a.m., 3rd & Anderson, “illegal camping.” At 6:35 a.m., 525 Anderson Ave., CBPL, “illegal camping.” At 6:45 a.m., So. Bayshore Dr., “illegal camping.” At 8:42 a.m., Empire Lakes, “illegal camping.” At 2:42 p.m., Empire Lakes, John Topits Park, “illegal camping.”

UEMVs
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 16, 3:35 p.m., Wall & Harris, “unlawful entry into MV.” AT 10:28 p.m., 300 block Merchant St., “unlawful entry into MV.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 16, 8:26 p.m., Lakeshore & Seagate, “warrants served,” on 34-year old Terry Justin DeWolf charging OSP warrant for FTA on Felon Possession Restricted Weapon & Carry Concealed Weapon; also, FTA on FTA II; Oregon State Parole Board warrant for Parole Violation; ‘DeWolf was transported to CCJ.”

DUII
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 16, 10:05 p.m., Broadway & Elrod, “traffic stop,” 43-year old Isaac Lous Samsa charged with DUII, “Samsa was cited in lieu of custody.”

WX
A Storm Warning along the South Oregon Coast. Windy today with rain likely, potential for heavy rainfall with highs near 60 and winds out of the South at 20-30 mph. Windy with rain this evening, possibly heavy at times with lows in the upper 40s and winds out of the South to Southwest at 25-35 mph at first, then becoming Northwesterly, decreasing to 10-15 mph. Rain showers on Friday, overcast later in the day with highs in the low 50s and winds from the West at 5-10 mph.

Sports

South Coast Holiday BXB Tournament
The 2025 South Coast Holiday Basketball Tournament gets underway this afternoon with boys and girls’ games at Marshfield High School and Marshfield Junior High. The schedule begins at 4p with North Bend’s boys taking on Crook County at the Junior High, While North Marion and Redmond open at the same time in the Pirate Palace. Second games involve: Coquille girls and Redmond, 5:30p, at the Junior High, and Sutherlin taking on The Dalles at the High School. At 7p, Philomath boys play Hidden Valley at the Junior High, while Sutherlin and Marshfield play in the Pirate Palace. At 8:30p, North Bend girls and Crook Co. in the Junior High, while Marshfield and Mtn. View play at the High School. Games continue on Friday with consolation games in the morning and the championship side of the bracket for both boys’ and girls’ semi-finals in the afternoon and evening.

Prep GBXB Scores
Girls’ prep basketball scores from Wednesday, Dec. 17: 3A – Myrtle Pt. won at Douglas, 43-7.

Prep GBXB Schedules
Prep girls’ basketball schedules for Thursday, Dec. 18: 4A – Tillamook at Banks, 5:30p. Newport at Marist Catholic, 6:30p. Seaside Classic – Seaside vs. Madras, 6:30p. 3A – Neah-Kah-Nie vs. Phoenix Christian, 6p. Brookings-Harbor vs. Creswell, 6:30p. 2A – Bandon at East Linn Christian, 6p. Reedsport at Toledo, 6p. 1A – Powers vs. Wallowa, 3:30p, at Union HS.

Prep BBXB Scores
Prep boys’ basketball scores from Wednesday, Dec. 17: 3A – Douglas beat visiting Myrtle Pt., 58-40.

Prep BBXB Schedules
Prep boys’ basketball schedules for Thursday, Dec. 18: 4A – Tillamook at Banks, 7p. Newport at Creswell, 5p. Elmira at Marist Catholic, 5p. Brookings-Harbor at Cottage Grove, 5p. Junction City vs. Phoenix at Cascade Christian HS, Medford. Seaside vs. Madras, 8p, Seaside Classic. 3A – Ilwaco (WA) at Warrenton, 7:30p. Neah-Kah-Nie vs. ALA West Foothills (AZ), 6p. 2A – Bandon at East Linn Christian, 7:30p. Reedsport at Toledo, 7:30p.

UO MBXB
Oregon’s men’s basketball team beat visiting Portland, 94-69 in a collegiate game at Matthew Knight Arena, Wednesday, Dec. 17. The Ducks (0-2, 6-5) host Gonzaga, Sunday, Dec. 21, 3 p.m., televised on Peacock.

OSU MBXB
Oregon State’s men fell 85-75 to visiting Sam Houston, Wednesday, Dec. 17, Gill Coliseum, Corvallis. The Beavers (6-6) play at Arizona State, Sunday, Dec. 21, noon, televised on ESPN2.

Seahawks
A good NFC West matchup Thursday night with the LA Rams (11-3) visiting the Seattle Seahawks (11-3), Lumen Field, Seattle WA, 5:15 p.m., televised on Amazon Prime.