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A man on the U.S. Marshals' 15 Most Wanted Fugitives list was arrested in Redway. He’s accused of a gang-related shooting murder at a Miami nightclub as well as having a role in the kidnapping of a woman who disappeared in Canada. His murder victim was reportedly a rapper and a talent scout for notorious musician Chris Brown. As a significant national and international criminal case came to one of our neck of the redwoods, the news comes directly from the U.S. Marshals after Redheaded Blackbelt reported their presence in Redway with guns drawn. *** RHBB
An accused double murderer who failed additional attempts may finally see a trial. Wesley Starritt, known to Eureka Police for a “pure evil” propensity for gruesome stabbing murders with zero motive, is scheduled for trial soon after years of mental health delays dating back to 2020. Officers noted Wesley confessed to the killings but he also claimed he was Lucifer. Among other charges, he’s additionally accused of attacking guards and throwing poop mixed with another bodily substance on someone. Reportedly, the accused multiple murderer may soon change his plea from guilty to not guilty. *** TS / RHBB (2020)
A viral post detailed someone with a ‘straight pride’ shirt harassing a trans drummer in Eureka. The reports stem from a recent Friday Night Market in Eureka and a show in Old Town featuring a local trans punk band with the satirical name The Groomers. Post contributors also claimed the harasser is associated with a vehicle adorned with a pro-Nazi sticker. “…(He) was (glaring at) our band the entire show, and once our drummer was alone he decided to (harass her) out of nowhere... He was told to leave and kept (antagonizing) the bouncer before he eventually stormed off.” *** Post
Speaking of questionable shirts, another viral post appeared to show a man in Arcata with a shirt celebrated by pedophiles. *** Post
A teen boy and girl are accused of spray-painting racist and offensive slurs on a home and vehicles in Eureka. Social media posts appear to confirm graffiti reading “bitch” and "hoe," as well as misspellings of the N-word and “fuck you." No word yet on the disappointment of their English teachers. It appears the incident is related to a teenage dispute and involves families known to each other. *** RHBB / Loco
An ex-Fortuna High teacher and coach will see a new trial for allegedly groping three underage girls. A jury could not decide if Gary Landergen was guilty or innocent of misdemeanor charges, causing a new trial early next year. A lawyer for the former track coach argued none of the described incidents had evidence of sexual interest, as the prosecutor disagreed. Three Jane Does accuse him of touching their rears and thighs during track practice and a meet. *** TS
The shuttering of Redwood Meat Co. amid a family dispute is stressing our local food system. Accusations of mismanagement, fraud, and embezzlement have shrouded the recent closure of Redwood Meat Co. in Eureka, the only USDA-certified slaughterhouse within 200 miles. Family members are suing each other over the claims as ranchers and farmers are shipping livestock farther for processing. The owners of Redwood Meat also made the news for selling shares to a man accused of felony animal cruelty. *** Loco 1/2
A Eureka City Council candidate is associated with parking preservation efforts. Kenny Carswell recently moved to Ward 2 and looks to face incumbent Kati Moulton. Kenny works for controversial and wealthy businessman Rob Arkley and his company Security National, so he is associated with battles with the City of Eureka to prevent Old Town parking lots from being transformed into affordable housing. Kenny Carswell recently changed his political party from Republican to neutral. Eureka will vote on its parking versus housing issue in November. *** TS / Loco
Humboldt County Supervisors are forming a committee to consider independent oversight of the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff William Honsal opposed the idea, saying additional oversight is unnecessary. We’ll see what the committee decides. *** Loco [The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is also set to appear in the “Cops”-reminiscent show “On Patrol: Live.” - MC]
Officers recovered $10K of stolen construction equipment after a car chase. Citizens helped at first by following the suspect, and eventually, Sheriff’s deputies were led on a chase that ended in a crash near Blue Lake. During the pursuit, a chainsaw, fire extinguisher, and fuel tank, were reportedly thrown or lost from the truck, before it crashed into a fence near Blue Lake going about 30 mph. The so-far unidentified alleged thief and fugitive escaped on foot. *** RHBB
Fortuna’s movie theater remains closed following that big earthquake at the end of 2022. Following water damage related to the quake and the theater’s fire sprinkler system, the Cinema West movie chain has been pondering the cost of repairs. Fortuna and its surrounding communities seem to believe the 1930s-built theater (with the county’s largest screen) is a worthwhile and profitable venture. Should Cinema West reopen the Fortuna Theater? Should they consider selling to a savvy company that can confidently tap Fortuna’s theater potential? Do you know of a good movie theater company worthy of this investment? I passed the idea along to one movie theater chain. Fingers crossed for a cinema future for the Eel River Valley.
Humboldt County cannabis performed highly at the California State Fair. Humboldt County strains earned 16 gold and silver awards at the event, puffing themselves up among over 500 submissions. This recognition affirms Humboldt’s historic and current cannabis legacy, potentially attracting new businesses and investment. The smell of sweet victory was so thick in the air that it was even edible in some cases. Wishing celebratory munchies to the winners of the California cannabis contest. *** NCJ
A local auto repair shop deviated from their typical work to repair a girl’s feeding chair. Struggling to find a local welder, a local woman contacted Quality Body Works in Eureka for recommendations on fixing this chair essential to her daughter’s daily life. They accepted the task, and after a little welding and painting, you should see the smile on this girl’s face. Humboldt Last Week is honored to welcome Quality Body Works as a sponsor. *** Instagram
The menacing mermaid movie “Bad Fish” is out. The mystery thriller was filmed in Crescent City, Smith River, and Brookings in late 2022. Wild Rivers Outpost has the trailer, local showings, and a chat with the director who said he had Brookings in mind when he wrote “Bad Fish.” *** WRO
Construction has begun on a mountain bike park in the Cutten area. Phase 1 of the McKay Community Forest Bike Park near Northridge Road in Cutten will cater to mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels including a pump track, a jump trail, and a beginner loop. Future phases depend on fundraising. The Cutten spot should be an awesome recreational space for residents and visitors looking to get into mountain biking. *** Learn more and get involved [Thanks to friend-of-the-show Tai for peddling this along. -M]
The Summitt in Arcata is an inclusive women’s sports bar. Their lavender building on G Street features rooftop lounging, a fireplace, views, a sports bar, an art gallery, and a creative workspace. It’s LGBTQ+ friendly. The Sumitt in Arcata has been open since the beginning of the year. *** Loco
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