Sacramento News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Three Sacramento men just got convicted for a brutal kidnapping in Southern California — they snatched a businessman from his job, taped over his face, and demanded $100K plus jewelry, even threatening his family. The victim was dumped in a remote spot but rescued thanks to his wife spotting the break-in on security cameras. All three now face life in federal prison, with sentencing set for November 5th. Meanwhile, two other Sacramento residents — one who rented the getaway car and another who pleaded guilty to conspiracy — are also locked in this escalating case, with one already serving a 10-year sentence.

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Flock Safety is rolling out major privacy upgrades to its controversial license plate reader network, including mandatory audit tools, a seven-day data retention limit, and case-number linking for all searches — moves hailed by some as a step toward accountability but criticized by civil liberties groups as insufficient. Despite these changes, over fifty agencies have already pulled out, and cameras face vandalism, underscoring the deepening conflict between crime-fighting tech and fundamental privacy rights.

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Garden Valley Elementary just unveiled a $17.8 million state-of-the-art campus—complete with a new cafeteria, auditorium, and admin building—designed to transform the school experience for students and staff alike. After years of overcrowding in two trailers, the upgrade offers spacious, modern facilities that support growing enrollment, deliver better meals and performances, and even feature a welcoming new 2,000-square-foot admin office to strengthen parent-teacher connections.

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A new Consumer Reports investigation, teamed up with Yuka, uncovered alarming levels of additives and contaminants in 40 popular processed foods and drinks—revealing that nearly a third of products contain concerning ingredients, with some companies defending their practices while others admit to working on changes. Experts urge consumers to scrutinize ingredient labels, especially on brightly colored or heavily processed items, as transparency remains lacking and daily consumption can amplify hidden risks.

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Hershey’s iconic Reese’s Halloween pumpkins are back—unchanged and unapologetically oval—after winning a lawsuit over their “faceless” design, sparking a national debate about candy expectations. Now, with the biggest Halloween candy lineup ever, including spooky KitKats and non-chocolate treats, Hershey’s riding the wave of “summerween” as Halloween spending hits record highs.

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A 4.1-magnitude earthquake rattled the East Bay Thursday morning, shaking homes from San Leandro to Walnut Creek and even rattling KRON4’s San Francisco newsroom. While no injuries or damage were reported, BART slowed trains for safety checks—resuming service by 9:08 AM with possible 20-minute delays. Two aftershocks followed, registering 3.0 and 2.8, as crews headed to San Leandro to assess the scene. Thankfully, everyone came out unscathed.

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In a shocking twist four months after a botched jewelry heist in south Sacramento, two suspects are now behind bars. The robbery ended in tragedy when a stolen vehicle slammed into the store and critically injured a 72-year-old employee who later died. Investigators identified 24-year-old Alfredo Colmenero-Martinez as the driver and 35-year-old Jarren Frazier as the mastermind. Both were arrested last Friday — Colmenero-Martinez in Tracy, Frazier in Concord — and charged with murder and attempted robbery. Automated license plate readers helped track the vehicles and connect the dots across multiple jurisdictions. They’re both currently jailed without bail.

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A lucky Illinois gas station buyer just won a staggering $1 billion Powerball jackpot—the largest since May and the eighth-biggest in history. With odds of 1 in 292 million, this $2 ticket could change lives forever, with winners choosing between a 29-year annuity or a $455 million lump sum. Meanwhile, four other states each landed $1 million, and one Massachusetts ticket doubled to $2 million with Power Play. The jackpot resets to $20 million for next Saturday’s draw—proof that dreams, however slim, still pay off.

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That iconic Highway 50 water wheel—gone in an instant after a drunk driver smashed into it on Valentine’s Day—is back, rebuilt and ready for a big Friday morning reveal. After 40 years as a beloved local landmark, the wheel’s return is a community win, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 AM at Naturwood Home Furnishings. It’s more than just a decoration—it’s a piece of Rancho Cordova’s soul, and its resurrection proves how fast people rally to preserve what matters. If you’re nearby, swing by and witness history turning back on its axis.

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Someone in Sacramento just hit five of six Powerball numbers, winning $820,520 at an ARCO ampm on Fair Oaks Boulevard — a life-changing windfall that’s still way bigger than most people ever dream of. While the grand prize of $1.04 billion went to an Illinois winner, this local jackpot opens doors to debt freedom, big investments, or just pure luxury. The winner’s identity remains private for now, as officials give them space to claim their fortune quietly. It’s a reminder that sometimes, a single ticket can rewrite your entire future — and this week, luck is definitely on the move.

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Powerball just hit a jaw-dropping $1 billion jackpot—its eighth-largest ever and the 15th time in U.S. history a lottery has reached that milestone. Winners can take $455 million upfront or opt for 29 years of payments. This Wednesday’s draw was the biggest Powerball jackpot of 2026, following 44 drawings without a winner since the last $20 million win in May. The UK recently joined the game, making it the first time Brits could potentially claim the prize. With odds of 1 in 292 million, it’s a long shot—but someone’s gotta win.

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West Sacramento Grass Fire Under Control | Sacramento News

Sacramento just approved a game-changing $183-acre Natomas development that’s been in the works for over a decade—bringing a major teaching hospital, retail, and parks—all funded by the project’s own revenue, not new taxes. Seen as a lifeline for local small businesses hit by the Kings’ move downtown, this “Natomas Promise” aims to revive the economy, create jobs, and boost healthcare access. Residents like hotel manager Safal Mengi, who grew up in the area, are thrilled to see the land transform into vibrant community life. While construction is still years away, the mayor’s team will now finalize fun...

A Sacramento resident may be holding a $825,520 Powerball prize after matching five winning numbers — while a billion-dollar jackpot in Illinois remains unclaimed. That record-breaking $1.04 billion prize rolled over 43 times before being won, offering the lucky ticket holder either a $450 million lump sum or annuity payments over 29 years. Meanwhile, the Sacramento winner has 180 days to step forward — and if you’re nearby, double-check your ticket. Luck strikes everywhere — keep playing.

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A wildfire called the Talbot Fire erupted near French Meadows Road in Tahoe National Forest, ballooning from 16 to 200 acres in hours—zero percent contained—and triggered evacuation warnings for nearby communities. Officials scramble as aircraft battle flames under dry conditions, with cause still unknown. Stay alert and watch for updates from Cal Fire and Placer County Sheriff’s Office.

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Talbot Fire rages in Tahoe National Forest, prompting Placer County Sheriff’s Office to issue an evacuation warning for residents along French Meadows Road, especially the Cedars community — get ready to leave if conditions worsen. Though only 200 acres burned so far and Truckee remains unaffected, local police are monitoring closely as smoke drifts in. Officials urge proactive planning as the situation evolves — stay alert and prioritize safety.

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Hundreds packed Modesto City Hall to stop a potential giant data center, chanting, rhyming, and dressing up to make their voices heard — even though no official proposal exists. Officials say it’s not on the table, current rules forbid it, and no applications have ever been filed. While they can’t act on unlisted issues, leaders confirmed they’re not drafting new rules or pushing for a moratorium — but residents aren’t backing down.

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Woodland schools are stepping up security with Measure Y—new fencing, single entry points, and upgraded cameras are giving parents peace of mind. Approved in 2020 with $44 million, the initiative also funds ADA upgrades, parking improvements, and fresh paint—all aimed at safer, better facilities for students and staff.

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A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the Bug Fire erupted east of Highway 395 on August 8, exploding from 50 acres to over 66,000 in just days—with most of the burn area in Nevada. Evacuation warnings and orders are in place for Plumas and Lassen counties, including communities like Chilcoot and Vinton, though no injuries or damage have been reported. Crews have achieved just 3% containment as they battle the blaze, believed to be human-caused. Meanwhile, other fires like the Smith and Flat Fires have seen progress halted and some evacuations lifted, as wildfire activity continues to dominate the region.

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California’s Senate just passed “Leno’s Law,” a groundbreaking bill easing smog check requirements for classic cars built between 1976 and 1985—mostly show cars, not daily drivers. Starting next year, it’ll roll out gradually by model year over five years. Backed by Jay Leno and championed by senators who see these vintage rides as cultural treasures and economic assets, the law aims to preserve California’s car heritage while sparing owners like a 1984 El Camino enthusiast from costly, recurring emissions tests. Now headed to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, this legislation could soon let cherished classics breathe easy on the road again...

Jay Leno’s pushing for a new California law that would expand smog exemptions for classic cars — potentially changing the future of vintage vehicle ownership. Currently, cars made before 1976 are exempt, but Leno argues it’s getting harder to find places that can test older, rarer vehicles, forcing owners to drive hours just to get their cars checked. This isn’t the first time “Leno’s Law” has been proposed — it stalled last year — but this time, he’s got bipartisan support and a phased-in approach: extending the exemption to cars made before 1981, then adding one model year annually until 2032. The bill...

A deadly stabbing near a homeless encampment by the Yuba River has led to an arrest: 48-year-old Jesse Stewart is now in custody for allegedly killing 46-year-old Akili Lewis, a Black man, using racial slurs during the attack. Authorities are treating it as a potential hate crime, and a knife was recovered from the river with help from drones and divers. The investigation remains active.

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A deadly hate crime in Yuba County leaves one dead and one arrested: 48-year-old Jesse Stewart is behind bars after allegedly stabbing Akili Lewis, a Black man, near a homeless encampment. Witnesses say Stewart used racial slurs before the attack, and a knife recovered from the Yuba River is believed to be the murder weapon. Authorities are treating this as a hate-motivated homicide and continue to investigate.

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Two thrill-seekers in Sacramento County were busted by the California Highway Patrol for street racing at speeds over 120 mph—leading to arrests, impounded cars, and a shocking discovery: a firearm linked to a passenger with an active felony warrant. The CHP is sending a clear message: reckless speeding isn’t worth the risk—and when weapons are involved, it’s a recipe for disaster.

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Bears are turning suburban backyards into their own personal buffet in Placer County, with one mischievous black bear nicknamed “Muffin” even taking a dip in an Auburn pool — just the latest in a string of sightings across cities like Roseville and Rocklin. Experts say it’s all about mating season and hyperphagia: bears are stuffing themselves with calories to survive winter, sometimes gobbling up 24,000 calories a day. Wildlife officials urge residents to secure trash, keep pets indoors, and stay alert — because these hungry critters are venturing farther than usual.

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Wildfire alert in Nevada County: The Yuba Fire is burning near Penn Valley, prompting immediate evacuations for zone NCO-E075 west of Nevada City and south of South Yuba River State Park. Cal Fire crews are on scene, prioritizing structure protection and evacuations. A temporary shelter is set up at the Madelyn Helling Library in Nevada City, with pet/livestock support available at the Nevada County Horseman in Grass Valley. Safety first — heed warnings and get to safety now. Situation evolving.

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E-Bike Rider Dies in Modesto Crash | Sacramento News

Former El Dorado County high school band teacher Paul Varoff has pleaded guilty to multiple child sex crimes, including oral copulation and sexual penetration of minors — charges stemming from offenses that occurred over a span of years, with his arrest in January marking the culmination of a long investigation.

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A Black man, Akili Lewis, 46, was fatally stabbed in Marysville—what witnesses say was a racially motivated attack by a White suspect, Jesse Stewart, 48. Authorities recovered the weapon from the Yuba River and are treating it as a potential hate crime, while the community mourns and confronts deeper societal wounds.

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A thief in Amador County pulled off a brazen heist, stealing thousands in tools and even attempting to snatch a motorcycle — only to be caught thanks to the Flock system alerting cops at a Home Depot. Authorities found stolen gear in his car and even more at his home, including evidence of VIN tampering. Charged with burglary, grand theft, vehicle theft, and felony VIN fraud, he’s now behind bars — a stark reminder that no crime goes unnoticed when the system’s watching.

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Grass Valley PD is shutting down its Flock Safety license plate reader cameras after five years, citing legal uncertainties and an audit revealing outside agencies were using their system more than they were. Despite solving over 100 cases, Chief Gammelgard says the tech’s rapid evolution outpaces safeguards, and he’s pausing until the legal landscape clears — though the department isn’t abandoning the tech for good.

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A shocking unprovoked stabbing at a South Lake Tahoe Whole Foods sent shockwaves through the community — a 15-year-old allegedly attacked a stranger, fled, but was swiftly caught by police within minutes. The victim is stable, witnesses helped save the day, and the teen now faces attempted murder charges without bail. This chilling incident underscores how violence can erupt anywhere — even while grocery shopping — and why community vigilance matters.

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Bears are back in Auburn—mama and two cubs spotted near Lincoln Way and Russell Road. This isn’t the first time this summer; sightings popped up in August too. Stay safe: secure trash, keep pets indoors, and never feed or approach them. If you spot one, give it space—call 911 or Cal Fish & Wildlife only if there’s an immediate threat. Coexistence is key—wild neighbors are here to stay.

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Fire Threatens San Juan Bridge | Sacramento News

Russell Westbrook’s legendary NBA career is officially over — and what a ride it was. The only player to average a triple-double for four seasons, he shattered records with 209 career triple-doubles and became the first guard since Oscar Robertson to lead the league in triple-doubles in a single season. From his roots in Hawthorne, CA, to UCLA and then the NBA, Russ lit up the court with relentless energy, starring alongside Durant and Harden in OKC’s 2011 Finals run before becoming the Thunder’s unstoppable engine. He earned MVP honors in 2017, proving he could carry a team alone. After bouncing...

A San Francisco couple unearthed a 150-pound stone sculpture while doing yard work—possibly by famed artist Ralph Stackpole or one of his students. Now, they’re racing to verify its origin, turning a weekend chore into a potential historical treasure hunt right in their backyard.

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A shocking stabbing erupted at a South Lake Tahoe Whole Foods around 6:35 PM, leaving a 42-year-old man with multiple wounds as bystanders rushed to help. Within minutes, police tracked down and detained a 15-year-old suspect in the Ski Run area — an unprovoked attack between strangers. The teen, now booked into juvenile detention, faces attempted murder charges with no bail eligibility. The victim is stable but injuries remain unclear. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind this sudden, violent act.

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A partial solar eclipse swept across New England and northern states Wednesday, while the real spectacle—total eclipse—lit up Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. But don’t pack your bags just yet: next summer’s total eclipse will deliver a six-minute blackout over Spain, Morocco, and North Africa. For North America, the next total eclipse won’t arrive until 2033 in Alaska, then again in 2044 over western Canada and Montana. The grand finale? A coast-to-coast U.S. eclipse on August 12, 2045, stretching from California to Florida—with over six minutes of darkness. And yes, these cosmic dances happen more often than you think. <...

Get ready for fireworks and baseball—literally! The Sacramento River Cats unveil their 2027 schedule packed with firsts: a Fourth of July game on a Sunday, a Giants preseason showdown in March, and a Father’s Day tilt. They’ll host 39 weekend home games and offer free tickets to next year’s same games if you grab this year’s. Season finale? A five-game series against Las Vegas in September. Don’t miss the action at Sutter Health Park.

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A body found in Tuolumne County waterways has been identified as 40-year-old Jacob Wayne Ramsey of Sonora. Authorities, including deputies and the coroner, are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, which remains unclear. An autopsy is pending and expected to provide critical answers as the case moves forward.

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