A Powell Butte teenager is facing multiple charges after an early morning crash on Highway 97 south of 61st Street. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office says it happened at 4:21 Monday morning, when 18-year-old Seoan Mooney’s 1992 Subaru SVX hit a highway barrier and caught fire. Witnesses reported the vehicle had been speeding southbound before the crash. Mooney was alone and escaped before flames spread. Bend Fire & Rescue put out the fire, while all lanes of traffic were closed for nearly an hour. Mooney was taken to St. Charles–Bend with non-life-threatening injuries and cited for DUII, reckless driving, reckless endangering, and criminal mischief.

Authorities in Warm Springs are investigating after human remains were found Saturday near Indian Health Services on Kotnum Road.

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs say police received a report of possible remains around 10:53 a.m. near the facility. Officers responded, along with FBI agents, and confirmed remains were found during a search of the area.

The FBI is now processing the scene with assistance from Warm Springs police. The investigation remains active, and officials are asking the public to stay away from the area while investigators continue their work.

More details are expected as they become available.

Bend Fire and Rescue is making it easier for residents to prepare for wildfire season with a new online assessment tool.

Homeowners can request a free wildfire risk home assessment through Fire Aside, then receive personalized recommendations for defensible space and home hardening.

The platform also lets residents track completed mitigation work over time. Requests are available at bend Oregon dot gov slash own your zone.

 

 

 

A southwest Bend neighborhood is urged to watch out for a bear cub. It was seen near Wildflower Park on River Rim Drive on Wednesday. Police spotted it before the cub ran away. No other bears have been seen. Oregon’s Department of Fish and Wildlife has been notified. Police ask people to avoid leaving food and garbage out and to keep pets indoors. Anyone who sees the cub should stay away and report it to non-emergency dispatch.

 

Bend Police say a large group of teens on e-motorcycles created traffic concerns Sunday afternoon after gathering at the Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride, then riding through downtown, Galveston Avenue and westside roads. Callers reported more than 30 riders doing wheelies and ignoring traffic laws. Officers attempted a stop, but many rode off. Three juveniles, ages 12, 14 and 15, were cited or referred to Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice for violations including no license, no helmet and riding on the sidewalk. One e-motorcycle was impounded. Police remind families: riders under 16 cannot legally operate e-bikes, and off-road electric motorcycles are not allowed on city streets.