News and Weather Update

🚛 Semi-Truck Rollover Causes Delays on I-84 On-Ramp

A semi-truck rollover occurred yesterday around 4 p.m. near the I-84 on-ramp at Highway 93. The crash caused closures of the on-ramp and one northbound lane for several hours as crews cleared the scene. No injuries were reported.
(Photo credit: Rico Rodriguez)

Bill Proposes Raising Initiative Threshold to 60%

Rep. Bruce Skaug introduced a bill to increase the approval threshold for statewide initiatives to 60%. The bill heads to a committee hearing, though some question its necessity given past Idaho Supreme Court rulings protecting initiatives as a fundamental right.

State Employees Could Receive $1.55 Hourly Raises

The Change in Employee Compensation Committee voted 7-3 to recommend a $1.55 hourly raise for state employees. The recommendation aligns with Gov. Brad Little’s 5% raise proposal.

Idaho State Police Report Road Rage Shooting on I-90

A woman’s SUV was struck by a bullet near Post Falls on Wednesday. Police arrested a 24-year-old Coeur d’Alene man driving a suspected vehicle.

Kohberger Defense Challenges Prosecution on Evidence

Bryan Kohberger’s attorneys allege they’ve received only five expert reports from the prosecution despite 25 experts being disclosed, with no DNA evidence included. The defense cites complexities in DNA, cellular data, and forensic analysis. Legal experts suggest sanctions could be imposed if evidence has been withheld, potentially removing the death penalty. Kohberger faces charges in the 2022 killings of four University of Idaho students.

Boise State Appeals $4 Million Verdict in Big City Coffee Case

After a $4 million jury verdict for Big City Coffee, Boise State plans to appeal, extending the costly 39-month dispute. Taxpayers are already footing $1.5 million in legal fees, with millions more on the line as the case continues.

New Bill Proposes Misdemeanor for Adult Cannabis Possession

Idaho Rep. Bruce Skaug introduced a bill to penalize adults possessing three ounces or less of cannabis with a misdemeanor and a $300 fine. Minors would be exempt. The measure moves forward for a full hearing.

Former “Power Ranger” Actor Sentenced in Battery Case

Former “Power Ranger” actor Hector David Rivera pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery after pushing an elderly man to the ground in a Nampa parking lot. He was sentenced to 180 days in jail, with 135 days suspended, and will be on probation while completing 100 hours of community service. The incident occurred in July when Rivera, who had parked in a handicapped spot without a placard, was confronted by the 62-year-old victim. Rivera was removed from the 2024 Magic Valley Comic-Con lineup following the charges.

Sports

Girls Basketball Scores

Oakley Lady Hornets defeated Shoshone 47-17, remaining undefeated at 13-0, led by Livee Berlinguet’s 14 points. Oakley plays Grace tomorrow.
Murtaugh 53, Hagerman 34: Kierstley Roseborough scored 20 for Murtaugh.
Raft River 63, Glenns Ferry 36: Brooke Bingham had 18 points and 13 rebounds.

Boys Basketball Scores

6A: Madison 62, Canyon Ridge 43.
5A: Century 69, Burley 67 — Cove Thompson scored 23 for Burley.
4A: Sugar-Salem 63, Kimberly 54 — Broden Anthony had 17 for Kimberly.
3A: Declo 64, North Fremont 46 — Carter Robinson led Declo with 23 points.

State Basketball Media Poll

The latest state basketball media poll highlights multiple Magic Valley teams:

Declo (9-0) leads 3A.
Valley (7-0) is No. 2 in 2A.
Dietrich (9-1) holds the No. 2 spot in 1A.
The Carey Panthers (9-3) dropped a spot in 1A after a loss to Dietrich earlier in the week.

Idaho Vandals Secure Big Sky Road Victory

The Idaho Vandals opened their first road game of Big Sky play with an 80-67 win over Sacramento State. Sophomore Jack Payne led with 23 points, including four 3-pointers. Kristian Gonzalez added 15 points, Tyler Linhardt contributed 13 off the bench, and Tyler Mrus finished with 11 points. Idaho shot 49.1% as a team and controlled the turnover battle. The win moves Idaho to 2-1 in conference play, tied for second place. Next, they face Portland State on Saturday, January 11.

Weather

Today

Increasing clouds with a high near 40°F. East northeast wind around 6 mph.

Tonight

Snow likely, mainly before 11 p.m. Cloudy early, then gradual clearing with a low around 29°F. Light and variable wind becoming west 13 to 18 mph in the evening, with gusts up to 37 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.