Boise Police responded to a reckless driver report on November 28, 2025, leading to a confrontation where the driver, a teenager, fired a weapon and sustained a fatal self-inflicted injury. He was later identified, and a death investigation is ongoing. No officers discharged their weapons during the incident.
Registration for winter and spring recreation activities in Boise opens on December 1, 2025. The city will offer a variety of events spanning outdoor sports, camping, and nature activities. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and promote active lifestyles.
Seasonal closures of the Ridge to Rivers trail system in Boise begin December 1 to prevent damage and protect wildlife habitats. These closures are critical for maintaining the ecological integrity of the foothills during winter.
Boise Police arrested a suspect after a lengthy barricade situation in a travel trailer on Americana Blvd. Officers employed negotiation tactics, drones, and non-lethal devices before taking the suspect into custody without incident. Charges are pending against the suspect.
Boise Police arrested Sharif Bari, 45, for arson following a two-hour standoff where he barricaded himself and started a fire inside his home. Officers evacuated nearby residents and negotiated with Bari, who surrendered without further incident. He was taken to a hospital for medical clearance before being booked into jail.
Boise Police arrested 36-year-old Brian Jones for first-degree murder following a call he made stating he killed his friend. Officers discovered the victim's body at a hotel, where Jones claimed the act was assisted suicide, which is illegal in Idaho. The investigation remains ongoing, with the victim's identity pending notification of next of kin.
Boise Police investigate a fatal vehicle-pedestrian crash that killed a young girl on Harrison Blvd. The driver, Elvin Ramos-Caballero, had an outstanding federal warrant and was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
A young girl died following a vehicle-pedestrian crash in Boise at the intersection of N Harrison Blvd and W Ada St. The incident occurred around 4:42 p.m. when both the driver of a pickup truck and the pedestrian entered the intersection, leading to the tragic collision.
Boise has settled a federal lawsuit over its loitering ordinance, which a judge deemed unconstitutional. The city agreed to a $200,000 settlement with plaintiff Luke Schuchardt, who was arrested under the ordinance. As part of the agreement, the City Council will repeal the ordinance, which has been suspended since the ruling.
Gem County Prosecuting Attorney Erick B. Thomson ruled that the Boise Police officer's actions in the shooting of Gabriel Pope on November 13, 2024, were legally justified. The incident involved Pope, who threatened officers and attacked himself with a knife before lunging at Corporal Martinez, who subsequently shot him. No criminal charges will be filed against Martinez.
Boise Police arrested five suspects, including a 19-year-old and four juveniles, for assaults on vulnerable adults. The incidents involved attempted robbery and physical attacks on two separate victims in October and August. The investigation continues, and police seek additional information from the public.
Boise officials urge residents to keep vehicles parked correctly as cooler weather approaches. Long-term parking of RVs and trailers on public streets raises safety concerns and may lead to citations. Residents should follow city codes to avoid issues with abandoned vehicles.
Boise Police arrested five suspects, including one adult, for multiple charges related to two assaults on vulnerable adults. The incidents occurred on October 12 and August 2, 2025, involving attempted robbery and physical assault. The investigation is ongoing, with additional charges possible.
Zoo Boise will reinstate its popular $3 admission days starting November 5, 2025. This initiative aims to make the zoo more accessible to the community while promoting family-friendly activities.
The City of Boise reported a sanitary sewer overflow on November 1, affecting Thurman Drain near Chinden Boulevard. City crews contained and cleaned the overflow, which posed no risk to drinking water or public health. Officials are investigating to prevent future incidents.
The City of Boise announces the launch of the Acquired Structure Program website on November 3, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance training in asbestos abatement and demolition practices for utility structures. The program is expected to improve safety and efficiency in local construction operations.
Construction has commenced on the Whitney Pool, a $9.5 million facility located at Whitney Elementary School in Boise. Officials anticipate the pool will provide recreational opportunities for local residents and is set to open for the summer 2027 swim season.
Boise Parks and Recreation announced the return of its seasonal dog off-leash program at three city parks, starting November 16. The program allows dogs to run off-leash from sunrise to sunset, with safety reminders for pet owners regarding icy conditions. Owners must clean up after their pets to maintain park cleanliness.
The City of Boise and community partners dedicated improvements to the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial on October 29, enhancing accessibility and security. The $3 million upgrades include wider pathways, new security features, and interpretive kiosks, reflecting Boise's commitment to human rights and community values.
Boise City Council will consider acquiring two properties for public use at their meeting on October 28. A 44-acre foothills parcel, donated by the Satz family, aims to preserve wildlife habitat and enhance outdoor recreation, while a 0.19-acre site from Veolia Water will serve as a new pocket park.
Zoo Boise reopened the Small Animal Kingdom on October 23, featuring new habitats and species. The upgrade enhances animal welfare and guest accessibility, making it a significant improvement for wildlife education. New residents include a prehensile-tailed porcupine named Ozzy and soon a Hoffmann’s two-toed sloth.
Boise officials announced reduced speed limits for Lime micromobility devices to enhance safety along the Boise Greenbelt and downtown. Effective immediately, Lime users can ride at a maximum of 12 mph on the Greenbelt and 10 mph in downtown areas during specific hours. The city also plans to educate e-scooter and e-bike users, whose devices can reach speeds exceeding 30 mph.
Boise families prepare for Halloween with community events and safety reminders from Boise Police. Drivers should remain vigilant, while trick-or-treaters are advised to stay in groups and only visit well-lit homes. Alcohol consumption is discouraged without a safe transport plan.
Boise Mayor Lauren McLean appointed Aaron Hummel as the new Fire Chief, succeeding Mark Niemeyer, who will retire. With nearly three decades of service in various roles within the Boise Fire Department, Hummel's leadership is anticipated to enhance community safety and operational excellence.
