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NEWS
SR-167 to close in both directions later this week in Kent, WA
State Route 167 will close overnight in both directions in Kent, Washington, from April 24 to April 25 as part of the WSDOT's Corridor Improvements Project. The closures aim to upgrade toll equipment and add a new lane to enhance traffic flow. Signed detours will be in place to assist drivers during the closure.
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NEWS
Auburn, WA business employee, co-owner speak out after building burns during police search
A fire destroyed Zanadu Studios in Auburn, WA, during a police search for a domestic violence suspect on April 8. Employee DJ Taz shared memories of the vibrant event space, which was popular among musicians and hosted various gatherings. The tragedy also claimed the life of the owner's dog, Tigger, adding to the emotional toll on the business and its staff.
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NEWS
FEMA denies funds to WA for damage caused by 2024 bomb cyclone
Governor Bob Ferguson announced that Washington State will appeal FEMA's denial of disaster relief funds for damage caused by the November 2024 "bomb cyclone." The storm resulted in significant destruction, leading to a preliminary damage estimate of $34 million and two fatalities. Ferguson emphasized the need for federal assistance to support recovery efforts in affected communities.
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NEWS
Police hunt for Kent DV suspect after thinking he died in business fire
A manhunt is underway in Kent, Washington, for Avon Cobb, a 51-year-old man accused of domestic violence who escaped arrest during a fire that engulfed his workplace. Initially believed to be dead, authorities are now actively searching for him as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire. The incident has drawn significant public attention, with witnesses describing the chaotic scene as police attempted to negotiate Cobb's surrender before the blaze erupted.
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NEWS
SAVE Act could disenfranchise millions of voters
A recent report by a Congressman indicates that the SAVE Act could impose a staggering $361 million cost on Washington residents just for voter registration. This law is raising concerns about potential disenfranchisement of millions of voters, suggesting broader implications for electoral participation. The anticipated financial burden has sparked significant debate regarding the law's viability and impact on democracy in the state.
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NEWS
Judge dismisses petitions to recall 2 Kent School Board members
A judge has dismissed petitions aimed at recalling two members of the Kent School Board, Meghin Margel and Tim Clark. The decision reflects the court's assessment of the validity of the petitions, which sought to remove the officials from their positions. This ruling is significant for local governance and community engagement in Kent.
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NEWS
Kent man presumed dead after fire follows domestic violence call
A Kent man is presumed dead following a fire that erupted at a commercial building in Auburn, which was linked to a domestic violence incident reported earlier that day. The fire began at an apartment in Kent and escalated, prompting emergency responses from local authorities. This tragic event underscores ongoing concerns about domestic violence and its potential consequences.
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NEWS
Police Man sets building on fire during Auburn standoff, likely dead
A standoff in Auburn, Washington, involving a 51-year-old domestic assault suspect ended tragically when a fire engulfed the building where he was located, leading to his presumed death. Police had engaged in lengthy negotiations to coax the suspect into surrendering before the fire broke out, forcing officers to retreat. Investigators are currently working to confirm the suspect's fate and determine the fire's cause.
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NEWS
Meeker Middle School teacher receives state award
Neeraj Agnihotri, a science and robotics teacher at Meeker Middle School, received the Washington Education Association Human and Civil Rights Award for Student Involvement on April 4. Recognized for her commitment to creating a culturally responsive learning environment, Agnihotri fosters inclusive STEM opportunities and emphasizes the importance of motivation in her students’ success. Her initiatives, including the Unified Robotics program and plans for a girls' coding club, significantly impact her students and the broader Kent community.
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NEWS
Kent City Council approves Stay Out of Drug Areas zone
The Kent City Council has approved a new ordinance aimed at establishing "Stay Out of Drug Areas" zones in the city, a move that has drawn significant community attention. Despite the council's intentions, nine organizations have expressed opposition, labeling the ordinance as ineffective. The broader implications of this decision may impact local drug policy and community safety in Kent.
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NEWS
Slower is safer Steps to increase traffic safety in South King County
Kent Mayor Dana Ralph emphasized community collaboration for traffic safety at a recent meeting addressing the high collision rates along a critical corridor in South King County. The meeting, attended by families affected by fatal accidents, highlighted the urgent need for safety improvements following tragic incidents involving local residents. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission underscored the importance of community engagement in driving change and reducing fatalities.
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NEWS
Man, 22, gets 20-year prison sentence for 2022 Kent killing
A 22-year-old man has received a 20-year prison sentence for a drive-by shooting incident in Kent, Washington, that resulted in the death of a 29-year-old. The shooting occurred outside a bar on Central Avenue and was part of a violent trend that has concerned local law enforcement. This sentencing underscores the ongoing issues of gun violence and public safety in the area.
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NEWS
Police arrest woman for investigation of vehicular homicide collision at 94th Ave. S.S. 240th St.
A woman has been arrested for investigation of vehicular homicide following a tragic collision at the intersection of 94th Ave. S. and S. 240th St. in Kent, where a 56-year-old man lost his life. This incident raises concerns about road safety and the implications of vehicular crime in the area. As local authorities investigate, the community is left grappling with the consequences of this incident.
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NEWS
6-year-old boy drowns in pond on Kents East Hill
A tragic incident occurred on March 25 when a 6-year-old boy, reported to have autism, drowned in a pond on Kent’s East Hill. The child was drawn to the water, prompting police involvement in the investigation. This heartbreaking event underscores the need for increased safety measures around water bodies, especially for children with specific vulnerabilities.
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NEWS
Layoffs at Valley Medical Center stem from loss of funding
A recent article highlights significant layoffs at Valley Medical Center in Renton, impacting 101 nonunion employees due to a loss of funding. This development raises concerns about the financial stability of healthcare services in the region, particularly for those reliant on the hospital. The article also touches upon broader implications for healthcare funding and community support.
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NEWS
Kent Police Blotter March 11-23
A series of incidents in Kent, Washington, from March 11 to March 23, 2025, highlights various local issues, including a tragic drowning, layoffs at a medical center, and police activities. The Kent Police Blotter provides an overview of crime and safety concerns in the area, while other key stories address community developments and city governance. These events reflect ongoing challenges and progress within the Kent community.
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NEWS
FBI honors teen girls who helped stop abduction in Kent
Three teenage girls, Bentley Hendrickson, Esme Munguia, and Kylie Love, received commendations from the FBI and the Kent Police for their bravery in preventing the attempted abduction of a 6-year-old girl. Their quick thinking and decisive actions not only protected the child but also aided in the conviction of the offender, Hayder Hasan Albu-Mohammed. The incident occurred during an ice cream truck visit at their apartment complex in July 2024.
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NEWS
Cost-of-living pay hikes approved for Kent mayor, City Council Kent Reporter
The Kent Independent Salary Commission has approved a 3.6% cost-of-living pay increase for Mayor Dana Ralph and the City Council, elevating the mayor's salary to $219,720 and part-time council members to $37,296 annually. This decision, made during a March 23 meeting, reflects the commission's ongoing commitment to reassess compensation based on comparative city salaries. The adjustments position Kent's elected officials competitively within the region's municipal salary landscape.
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NEWS
Riverbend Golf Complex in Kent turns profit for 3rd consecutive year
The Riverbend Golf Complex in Kent is projected to generate approximately $696,000 in profit for 2024, marking its third consecutive profitable year. After experiencing significant losses in previous years, the complex has turned around its financial performance, aided by improvements made with funds from a past sale of a par 3 course. The city anticipates additional revenue from leasing a restaurant space to a new operator, further enhancing the complex's financial outlook.
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NEWS
Board recommends Dow Constantine as new Sound Transit CEO
The King County executive board has recommended Dow Constantine as the new CEO of Sound Transit, a pivotal position that could see him earning an annual salary of $675,000. This appointment comes at a crucial time as the region focuses on expanding public transit and addressing transportation needs. Constantine's extensive experience in local governance positions him as a strong candidate for this role.
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NEWS
Man receives nearly 18-year sentence for Kent hotel murder
Phillip Jonathan Lopez received a nearly 18-year prison sentence for the violent assault of his girlfriend in June 2021 at a Ramada Inn in Kent. The case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic violence in the community. Lopez's sentencing underscores the legal system's response to such serious offenses.
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NEWS
Kents Martin Sortun Elementary receives Special Olympics honor
Kent's Martin Sortun Elementary has been honored as a National Special Olympics Unified Champions School, recognizing its commitment to inclusive sports and community engagement. This accolade reflects the school's dedication to fostering an environment where students of all abilities can participate and thrive together. The recognition underscores the importance of inclusivity in education and sports, benefiting not only the students but the wider community as well.
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NEWS
Kent East Hill Operations Center to open later this year administrative offices to move
The Kent East Hill Operations Center is set to open later this year, prompting a relocation of administrative offices. This development was highlighted by Kent's mayor during the annual address, emphasizing the city's ongoing commitment to improving local facilities. The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance city services and infrastructure.
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NEWS
Kent City Council plans to establish Stay Out of Drug Areas
The Kent City Council is planning to establish designated "Stay Out of Drug Areas" in an effort to combat drug-related activities in the downtown area, particularly along the Meeker Street corridor and near the 104th/240th intersections on East Hill. This initiative aims to enhance community safety and reduce the prevalence of drug use and trafficking. The proposal reflects the city's commitment to addressing pressing social issues and improving the quality of life for its residents.
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