Good morning, Yakima.

Jerid Joe Winters pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for stabbing Julius Hill in White Swan in 2022—he will serve 10 years, three months minus credit for time served, leaving Hill’s family to cope with their loss.

Villanueva, a 44-year-old bookkeeper from Toppenish accused of stealing nearly $850,000 from a Yakima law firm, was arrested on charges of theft and identity theft and later released on $50,000 bail—she now faces further court proceedings.

On Sunday night, a man with outstanding warrants sprayed a deputy with lighter fluid—he threw a flaming piece of metal and fled near milepost 6 on State Route 821 before deputies stopped him using tire spikes and a PIT maneuver.

Today, the Yakima City Council voted to delay a long-term license agreement with Yakima Valley Trolleys due to budget shortfalls and reduced service routes.

The council extended the existing contract for one month—allowing trolleys to run through the summer while further discussions refine the future plan.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Benton County plan to fly drones over the lower Yakima River on August 27 or 28 to survey areas needing habitat restoration.

The flight will cover the river from the Prosser City Wastewater Plant to the Yakama Nation Prosser Hatchery and extend further with flights expected to last between two and four hours—weather permitting and following FAA rules.

Researchers found that the brain’s body map remains unchanged after a hand amputation, which may explain why amputees feel phantom pain.

The study suggests that attaching a robotic prosthetic to the nerves could offer better control—offering hope for improved treatments.

Steps to Recovery Walk

Show your support for those on the path to recovery. Join us for a day of hope, resilience, and community. We invite all friends and family members in recovery to join us at this meaningful event and show your support for those who are walking the path of recovery.

Central Washington State Fair

12-2 p.m. — State Fair Park — Admission details not specified — Explore the vibrant festivities at the Central Washington State Fair.

5k Beer Run at Bale Breaker Brewing Company

12-2 p.m. — Bale Breaker Brewing Company — Registration fee required — Experience a fun 5k run followed by local craft beer and festivities.