Your Daily Briefing – May 8, 2025


🛵 Fatal Motorcycle Crash Near Twin Falls Airport
Two motorcyclists, ages 23 and 25, were killed in a crash last night on Highway 74 at Sommers Street near the Twin Falls airport. Idaho State Police say the men were traveling eastbound when they collided. Both died at the scene. The road was shut down for about three hours.


⚖ Bryan Kohberger Case Updates
Judge Steven Hippler issued several rulings in the Kohberger case:

  • The state may examine Kohberger’s personality but not use personality tests at trial.
  • Prosecutors get more time to disclose expert findings.
  • The defense can’t be in the exam room but may observe by one-way video.
  • Kohberger’s family will be allowed to attend the trial.

🚨 Twin Falls Man Charged With Child Abuse
46-year-old Matthew Brander of Twin Falls faces five counts of lewd conduct with a child under 16. The abuse allegedly happened from 2016 to 2018. He appeared in court and returns May 16 for a preliminary hearing.


🥪 Free Summer Meals for Idaho Kids
With school out, Idaho will provide free meals to kids under 18 through the USDA Summer Food Service Program starting in June. Sites include the Boys and Girls Club of the Magic Valley.


🚂 Historic Train Car Restoration in Burley
The Cassia County Museum is restoring a rare 1800s passenger train car once used for hunting trips and later a freak show. A $300,000 project is underway thanks to a new grant and community donations.


📚 Literacy Gap Between Dietrich and Wendell Schools
Dietrich boasts 84% of K-3 students reading at grade level, compared to just 38% in Wendell. A 2022 state law ties funding to performance, giving Dietrich more funds—though critics say struggling schools are left behind.


🕊 Former Senator Carl Crabtree Dies at 68
Carl Crabtree, ex-Idaho state senator and Grangeville rancher, died of brain cancer. He served from 2016–2022 and supported education reforms like full-day kindergarten and dyslexia screening.


🥎 High School Softball Highlights

  • Burley Bobcats: Heading to state for the first time since 2008 after a 5–4 win over Wood River.
  • Mahri Robins hit a clutch 2-run homer; Ady Olmos went 3-for-3 with two RBIs.
  • Burley faces Jerome at 3:30 today in the Great Basin Conference Championship.
  • Kimberly beat Gooding 8–2 for the 4A Sawtooth title.
  • Malad crushed Declo 12–2 for the 3A Southeast crown.

🎓 College of Southern Idaho Softball Advances
CSI shut out Salt Lake 8–0. Eva Stoddard pitched a four-hit shutout and Ava Howell hit a walk-off homer. CSI plays for the Region 18 Championship today at noon.


🌤 Weather Forecast

  • Today: Sunny, high near 77°F, breezy.
  • Tonight: Mostly clear, low around 49°F.
  • Friday: Sunny, high 84°F.
  • Saturday: Mostly sunny and hot, high near 90°F.
  • Sunday: Slight chance of showers, high 82°F.
  • Monday–Wednesday: Cooler with scattered showers and highs in the 60s.
Terry "Tdub" West
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