Panhandle Scanner News

It's been a really tough week on the interstate. This is one of the worst that we can recall.   On August 13 in Lincoln County, a semi versus pickup crash near Sutherland occurred where a semi struck a parked Nissan pickup truck on the shoulder. An adult female passenger was killed, and a juvenile passenger was airlifted to Omaha with serious injuries. The driver, Fazali Sharapov, was arrested for motor vehicle homicide.   August 13, that same day, two more accidents. Later, while responding to that fiery accident involving the pickup and semi, a Nebraska State Trooper providing traffic control was rear-ended by a Buick Enclave. Thankfully, the trooper only suffered minor injuries, and the driver was cited for failing to move over an open alcohol container, no registration, and no insurance.   Also on the 13th, a flatbed semi truck merging onto traffic was struck from behind by another semi pulling a cargo van. The impact sparked a massive fire that destroyed the trailer and caused a fatality. The moving semi truck driver was pronounced dead at the scene. That was near the Brady-Maxwell exit.   And just yesterday, on Sunday, a severe four-vehicle crash occurred in the westbound lanes near Mile Marker 422 on I-80. Three people from the same vehicle died, and several others were injured, including two who were transported in critical condition. The collision closed the interstate for several hours, and the crash is under investigation by the Nebraska State Patrol.   A deadly week on I-80. Please use caution.   In other local scanner news, the Sunday Scanner is out. Find it on our Facebook page or on Panhandlescanner.com. 

Sometimes a simple act of generosity can ripple far beyond the original gift, touching lives and strengthening the community in ways that may never be fully measured.   We first met Larry Massie while serving at the Jeremiah House in southeast Scottsbluff. He has a true servant's heart and we are proud to call him a friend. The Oregon Trail Community Foundation shared that 11:13 Ministries has received a $4,000 donation from an anonymous donor through an employer matching gift program.   11:13 Ministries has become a lifeline for many in our community, providing meals, hope, and compassion to those who need it most. 11:13 Ministries is one of the ministries featured on the Horizon Serve website, horizonserve.org. Learn more there.    The 4th annual Prayers at the Pump event is coming up next Saturday. Not this Saturday, but August 22nd. Free $20 worth of gas for the first 130 cars. This is compliments of the folks at First Baptist Church of Scottsbluff. Come if you need prayer. That's happening at the Co-op Plaza Cenex station on the north Beltline and Avenue B, August 22nd at 1pm.   Here's a way you can serve your community. Plan to spend your Labor Day weekend worshiping the King with all of us. But at the same time, if you've got an RV, they're asking for temporary use of it. Horizon Music Fest is in need of a few campers for artist hospitality. It gives our artists and speakers a clean, quiet home base to rest and prepare between sets. Your camper will be secured, treated with care, and returned clean. Please contact Horizon Music Fest or see that post on Panhandle Scanner.    

An outage alert came in from Sheridan County last night during this second round of storms that hit northwest Nebraska. Power companies and law enforcement are warning the public of downed power lines in Sheridan County and also in the Gordon area. There are many broken poles south of Rushville on 310th Lane and south of Gordon along Highway 27. Always use caution around downed power lines.   A 911 call was disconnected in Torrington according to Goshen County Scanner traffic last night. Police were headed to the King's Inn Hotel for a female who had accidentally called 911 and then said she won't be able to talk to officers upon arrival. Interesting. For any follow-up we might receive, check that post today.    Last night around 9 pm there was a structure fire call on K Street in Gering. Lots of smoke from the area and firefighters were on scene for more than an hour. One elderly female was transported to Regional West as a precautionary measure while the other male resident of the home was not transported by ambulance.   Just before 7.30pm scanner traffic indicated a motor vehicle accident on Stonegate Road. 21 year old male having an active seizure. Further traffic changed that address to 3rd Street and Minotier right off Highway 26 and that he was not having an active seizure and there was also another female in the car who may have been injured. Just another case of scanner traffic. It's not always what it starts out to be.

Unfortunately, competition flights are cancelled again for this morning. The U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championships was on hold again this morning and was eventually cancelled. It's a thrill to have the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championships here in our community, but it is a highly weather-dependent activity. And although the balloons won't be up in the air, they can be viewed.   It may look a little strange today with the full solar eclipse happening around the world. Unfortunately, most of us in North America will not see the full eclipse, but do be prepared for some weirdness around lunchtime today.   Megan's Market is out at Staples from eight until noon today. Yes, that's the guy that sells at the mall. Go see Tracy Gifford at Megan's Market. He's the farmer selling the fresh veggies at Staples.   Last night, Fire crews responded to a sparking transformer on West Charles Street in Morrill.   Three Look Who's hiring posts are now featured on our Facebook page. These are free if you're a business and need help getting people to work. We offer free hiring posts. Right now, the Bureau of Land Management, Emerald Court in Scotts Bluff, and Quick Care Services are all hiring. Find those posts on our page at Panhandle Scanner.    Unfortunately, we have heard of multiple motorcycle accidents happening this year at the Sturgis Rally. Not necessarily at the rally, but in conjunction with.   And don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday, whenever available, on PanhandleScanner.com or Panhandle Scanner on Facebook.       

An early morning accident sends one to the hospital. The call came in just before 4 a.m. out on Highway 26, near mile marker 39 between Minatare and Bayard. Nineteen-year-old female bleeding and complaining that her leg is stuck. State Patrol indicated that it was a one-vehicle accident with the nose of the car down on the culvert and the back end sticking up where the tow truck could grab it. Originally, they indicated a rollover, but then the medic who called in stated it was not a rollover and that the car had slid into the ditch. The female experienced prolonged extrication and was transported to Regional West Medical Center with partial trauma team activated.    A motorcycle versus deer accident happened last night on Highway 71 near the 88 Turnoff in Banner County. The two riders, a male and a female, aged 53 and 45, both experienced serious road rash but were alert, conscious, and breathing. Highway 71 was closed down for just a short time while they cleared the scene, and the two were transported to Regional West Medical Center.    Last night, the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championships were canceled due to hot weather, but they're set for this morning. The U.S. National's target location this morning is Mitchell Airfield from 6:45 to 7:30 a.m. Scottsbluff County receives a tremendous amount of national exposure due to the U.S. Nationals being held right here in the Panhandle of Nebraska. Enjoy the beautiful balloons in the sky, but be sure to keep your eyes on the road.    There has been a serious uptick in break-ins, vandalism, and overnight crime by youth. We are respectfully asking the community to step up as parents and know where your kids are at 4 a.m.    

MISSING JUVENILES, two subjects. First is a Mariah E. Poirier Chief Bear, 17 years old, native female, 5'3", 130 pounds, brown hair, brown eyes, nose piercing and glasses, last seen wearing a black hoodie and white shorts.   Second is a Larica Unique Stands, 16-year-old native female, 5'6", 120 pounds, brown hair, brown eyes, last seen wearing a dark colored hoodie, black shorts. No last known locations provided for either subject. Signed, Gering PD.   If you have any information about the whereabouts of these two individuals, please contact your local police department. The Old West Balloon Fest kicked off, so you'll be seeing lots of balloons in the air. Please do not be distracted and keep your eyes on the road.   Last night's scanner traffic included a male subject walking on Highway 385, a smoke check in Gering near Q Street, and an intoxicated female at 5-Below. A thunderstorm and a huge downpour that came through the area caused some power outages, much thanks to Roosevelt Public Power District for keeping on top of that. There was also an assault reported last night on East 17th Street in Scottsbluff.   There was also an interesting call at Lake Minatare yesterday. Scanner traffic indicated an off-duty officer calling in a situation in the southwest corner of the lake where a lady was seen and heard screaming out the window of a gold GMC or Chevy Colorado yelling, help, and to call the police. Last seen southbound on Stonegate Road near County Road G is where we picked up the traffic. At 2.39 PM, NSP was advising a male and female 10-15 or in custody and waiting on the next tow truck. Bumper to bumper responded for that tow while the two were transported to Scotts Bluff County Jail.    

Unfortunately, we have some breaking news for you this morning coming out of Lake McConaughey. Last night around 8 p.m., emergency crews were seen searching for a missing seven-year-old boy, suspected of drowning. Unfortunately, the young boy drowned. We also learned that a little girl was saved, but they were just too late for the boy. We will gather details and post what information we can secure from the family and law enforcement on this tragic accident last night. At this time, we're simply asking for everyone's prayers.    Speaking of Lake McConaughey, we still have a missing dog. Max is missing. He's a ten-year-old all-black English Cocker field bred hunting dog. He took off after a deer Wednesday morning on the west end of Lake McConaughey. See our missing dog post with that phone number on Panhandle Scanner.    Meanwhile in Gordon, assault leads to shocking arrest. The events leading to the Gordon man's arrest took several unexpected turns before ending with an electrifying conclusion. Authorities say a report of a possible armed altercation escalated into a struggle with deputies that ultimately required taser deployment. 21-year-old Gordon man, Hunter Hagel, was hit with 10 felony and misdemeanor charges.    Are you a nurse looking for work? Bayard Public Schools is hiring a full-time school nurse. Contact Bayard Public Schools.    Panhandle Scanner has also learned that the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau is looking for community members to serve on a brand-new West Nebraska Sports Council. If you are interested in advancing sports in the region, contact the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau.    

The Alliance Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating a juvenile, Laila Boerschig, age 17, was last seen at approximately 1 a.m. on August 5th in the area of the 100 block of South Grand Avenue in Alliance. If you've seen Layla or have any information regarding her whereabouts, please contact the Alliance Police Department.   Here's the scanner traffic with that information again. Laila Boerschig, 17, Indian female, 5'4, 125, brown-brown, last seen wearing blue shirt, gray shorts, black boots, signed Alliance Police Department.    Last night around 10 p.m., scanner traffic indicated a vehicle going eastbound in the westbound lanes. The 911 transfer was out of Wyoming. The vehicle had Wyoming plates and was headed into Nebraska.    If you are in the Lake McConaughey area or know someone who is, please share our recent post from the owners of a missing dog. Max is missing. He's a 10-year-old, all black, English Cocker Field bred hunting dog. They took him for a potty break around 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, and he took off after a deer. Please contact Panhandle Scanner or see the telephone number on the page on Panhandle Scanner referencing the missing dog at Lake McConaughey.    Yesterday, just after 1 p.m., a two-vehicle injury accident was reported in Scottsbluff on Highway 26. Scanner traffic indicated it was near the 21st Avenue intersection, airbags were deployed, and that one male was transported to Regional West Medical Center.  

Just a quick reminder about the road construction on 21st Avenue, or Sugar Factory Road, that will be going on today and tomorrow. According to NPPD, they will be replacing some power poles north of 27th Street. So be aware, Sugar Factory Road, north of 27th Street, closed today and tomorrow for replacement of power poles.    National Night Out was a big hit, I presume all over the country, it certainly was a big hit here in western Nebraska. Cities from all over the panhandle hosted the event, featuring interaction with local police departments.   National Night Out is an annual community building campaign designed to foster police-community partnerships and enhance neighborhood camaraderie, aiming to create safer, more caring environments. Held on the first Tuesday in August for most of the U.S., the event involves millions of participants, fostering positive connections between residents and local public safety officials, including police and firefighters.   Helping bring awareness to missing persons cases is one of our most important jobs here at Panhandle Scanner. With so many runaways and other extenuating circumstances, many people question why or why we do not post particular missing persons cases. If you are interested in what our policies are, or how we handle missing persons cases, visit our website at PanhandleScanner.com, and visit our missing persons section. Every case is different, and we handle it with the utmost caution and compassion possible. And we appreciate everyone who shares our posts and helps with these missing cases.   Don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday, whenever available, now for over 20 counties in Nebraska, all on PanhandleScanner.com. 

In Torrington, Officer Smith and Officer Cross took on a little nope-rope relocation project yesterday after a slithering friend found his way into the community without invitation. Fortunately, he wasn't a dangerous fellow and was safely removed and taken to a more favorable location down by the river.   The heat and dry conditions have a big impact on wildlife. They may be looking for some cool relief or water in places where we don't normally find them. Please keep an eye out, give them space, and give the police a call if you need a hand.   One of the joys of being a police officer is that you never know what adventures you will find in a day's work. By the way, if you can't tell from the photos, Officer Cross loves snakes.    Kimball, Nebraska, will be the site of a training exercise, the Region 1 Behavioral Health Crisis Intervention Team Training. September 14-18 in Kimball, Nebraska, two people were arrested following a traffic stop in Chadron on the evening of July 27th after officers allegedly discovered suspected methamphetamine during the investigation. According to the Chadron Police Department, Officer Colin Deines stopped a vehicle driven by 28-year-old Blaine Rowland after recognizing him and knowing his driver's license was suspended. During the stop, Officer Deines developed suspicion that Rowland may have been under the influence of alcohol.   Following a DUI investigation, Rowland was arrested on suspicion of DUI and driving under suspension. Officer Orsborn and K-9 Sukey assisted with the investigation. Approximately 3 grams of suspected methamphetamine were found allegedly on a passenger identified as 23-year-old Johanna Black Eyes. She was arrested on possession of methamphetamine. Both Rowland and Blackeyes were transported to the Dawes County Jail.

Well, it's fair season. The Scottsbluff County Fair just wrapped up, and it's time for two more.   The Kimball Banner County Fair begins August 9th and goes through the 15th, and it's the Box Butte County Fair starting tomorrow, August 4th through the 9th. And for our followers in the far northeastern portion of the Panhandle, a little bit outside the Panhandle is our Cherry County friends. They're also kicking off their County Fair this week. That started on Saturday and goes through the 9th.   Be sure to stay hydrated, as hot temps baked the region again this past week, with temperatures over 100 all over the Panhandle. 100 in Pine Bluffs, 102 in Alliance and Gordon, 103 in Bridgeport, 104 in Torrington and Scottsbluff, 105 in Gearing, and 106 degrees in Chadron.   There was a train delay yesterday that got some people hot. Multiple different crossings were closed, as 9th Avenue, 5th Avenue, Broadway, Avenue B, 20th Street, and Avenue I were all blocked due to a train that had broken down. BNSF sent a team to address the issue for the three-mile-long iron blockade, while the Nebraska State Patrol helped direct traffic.   The Sunday Scanner is out, and you'll catch all kinds of great stories in that weekly edition of our printable version, similar to a weekly newspaper. Catch it on Panhandlescanner.com or Panhandle Scanner on Facebook. It's the Sunday Scanner Weekly Edition in a newspaper format, complete with that late-night, last-minute, high-speed, well, slow-speed chase through town on Saturday night.

he two adults involved in the Wyatt Reeb murder case have been sentenced, each 16 to 20 years in prison, for their involvement in the death of the 15-year-old back in 2025. Ramon and Dimitri Enriquez each faced separate judges, but received similar sentences of 16 to 20 years in the Nebraska Department of Corrections.   Remember the Katana Wielder from 2024 who was arrested? In Chadron, police arrested 25-year-old Gary Schott following an alleged assault in the early hours of July 27th that left two victims injured and reportedly included threats against their lives. Two Chadron officers were dispatched to the community hospital in reference to a victim of an assault wanting to speak to an officer. They arrived and documented the injuries through photographs and their interview. The officers then left the hospital and interviewed the second assault victim at a residence. Suspect was identified and located in the area, and as a result, 25-year-old Gary Schott was arrested for two counts of terroristic threats and one count of third-degree assault. Schott was transported to the Dawes County Jail in Chadron. In that Katana Wielding incident, Schott was convicted and sentenced to six to eight years in prison in 2024 for his actions, but was released on parole in May.   The Western Nebraska Pioneers have announced that the team will cease operations with the end of the 2026 season. The Nebraska Outlaws will also be relocating to Johnstown, Colorado and remain in the Front Range League.   These stories and more including that land spout up in Mullen and the funny money shopper in Loop City all on panhandlescanner.com. 

On Tuesday, July 28th, officers with the Scottsbluff Police Department received a report of a juvenile who had stolen a vehicle and was believed to be driving within the city. Officers confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen and began searching for the suspect vehicle described as a silver 2011 Ford Fusion.   Officers located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The driver failed to yield to emergency lights and sirens and fled. Due to the driver's known identity, juvenile status, and the initial risk posed by a pursuit, officers elected not to pursue at that time.   Rather than engage in an immediate pursuit, officers established a perimeter around the area where the juvenile repeatedly returned and made several attempts to safely disable the vehicle using tire deflation devices known as stop sticks. During one stop stick deployment, the suspect intentionally drove directly toward a marked patrol vehicle occupied by an officer narrowly avoiding a head-on collision. Officers had strategically positioned additional stop stick deployments in the area, and the suspect vehicle successfully drove over multiple tire deflation devices.   The vehicle continued northbound on 1st Avenue at a high rate of speed. After the tires deflated, the vehicle came to a stop near East 23rd Street and 1st Avenue. The juvenile surrendered without further incident and was taken into custody.   The juvenile was then subsequently transported to a juvenile detention facility and booked on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges.    A lot more going on, including hot weather warnings, our public record, and more. Check our page at Panhandlescanner.com or on Facebook by the same name.    

Yesterday, scanner traffic and local police reports indicated two elderly missing females. Thankfully, one has been found.   In Alliance, 71-year-old female was missing, but was safely located in less than 24 hours. The other elderly female we heard about did not provide much information, but we do know a 77-year-old female, white sweatshirt, blue sweatpants, 5 feet 6 inches tall, 120 pounds, is missing from Kimball. So in Kimball, a 77-year-old female, wearing sweats, white sweatshirt, blue sweatpants, 5'6", 120 pounds, beyond the lookout. That's in Kimball.   A rainstorm blew through the area, and several people submitted rain gauge photos to us, several different amounts from zero to several inches throughout the Panhandle. Storm spotters did report storm damage in the Broadwater area, and users sent in a couple of photos. You can see those on our Facebook page at Panhandle Scanner.    Have you visited our website recently, Panhandlescanner.com? Do it via your mobile phone, and you'll get our instant mobile app, that now has a new feature called the Scanner Traffic Logger. If you're a scanner listener, and you want to record what you hear over the scanner to help us out, go to Panhandlescanner.com, click on the red button called Scanner Traffic Logger, and submit anything you hear over scanner traffic. It'd be greatly appreciated. That's Panhandlescanner.com.    And if you want more of the story, it's the Sunday Scanner, every weekend, Sunday morning, by the crack of dawn. Our print formatted recap of the week's events.    

Yesterday, scanner traffic indicated a medical situation in the Lyman area. Trooper 300 from the Nebraska State Patrol had requested an ambulance to meet a patient traveling in a private vehicle on the road on the way to the hospital. The patient and the ambulance met up on South Morrill Road, where they were transferred and transported to Regional West Medical Center.    And speaking of Morrill, there was also a car fire in Morrill last evening. Scanner traffic indicated that the reporting party was complaining of asthma and could not breathe, and the pickup was engulfed in flames. Much thanks to the local fire departments for their response.    Speaking of fire response, the Alliance Nebraska Fire Department is looking for a new fire chief. If you are experienced and have what it takes, apply with the City of Alliance to be the new fire chief.   Two major overnight weather stories, at least an F2, possibly an F3, tornado ripped through Wisconsin causing major damage, and a 7.1 earthquake in Japan has hundreds of people currently trapped inside of a mall, and fears are there will be many deaths.    For the best in breaking local news, follow PanhandleScanner.com or Panhandle Scanner on social media. And don't forget our public record, every Monday through Friday whenever available, now covering over 20 counties in the state of Nebraska.   Speaking of the state of Nebraska, Greater Nebraska Scanner is our scanner page that covers the entire state. Go follow it now, Greater Nebraska Scanner, part of the Panhandle Scanner News Network. 

Well, yesterday must have been our day for hitchhiker alerts.   People listening to Panhandle Scanner Traffic may wonder why we put out an alert that there's a hitchhiker on the highway. These are for safety purposes. We're not trying to get anyone in trouble. In fact, hitchhiking is not illegal in Nebraska unless you're standing in the middle of the roadway, or if there's a city ordinance.    Hitchhikers are fairly common in Nebraska and Wyoming, and we had three last night. Always remember to use caution out on the roadways at night, especially looking for wildlife, livestock, and hitchhikers.   The Sunday Scanner News is out.   It's our weekly printable production. Looks and reads just like the Sunday paper, the Sunday Scanner, with several of those top stories that you heard about this past week, including the WNCC rooftop rescue, Mr. Moose cooling down in the canal, several scattered thunderstorms bringing rain, power outages, and fires, county fairs across Nebraska, a rattlesnake on Omaha Beach, the lettuce recall, several grass fires and car accidents, our ongoing Arthur's Pizza photo contest, a construction update from Torrington along with the pickleball court's notice, an upcoming fire apparatus training, a shout out to all of our newest business followers, and unfortunately, the horrific accident that happened last Thursday night that took the lives of two young people from Bayard, Nebraska. Our prayers and condolences continue for those families.   For all of these stories and more, check out our Sunday Scanner News, available now on Panhandlescanner.com or Panhandle Scanner on Facebook.   That's going to do it for today's Scanner News. Thanks again for listening, and may God bless.   I'm Brian Hale.

Watch out for the rattlesnake on Omaha Beach if you're out at Lake McConaughey. At 5 p.m. last night on July 23rd, there was a snake spotted. Pretty good size. Please be aware of your surroundings while enjoying the lake. They're out and this heat will have them looking for water and cool places as the summer continues.   Muhammad Ali once said, service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. The Hershey Volunteer Fire Department posted that meaningful and timeless message yesterday as a reminder that the recent fires highlights the amazing communities we serve. If you want to give back, contact your local fire department.   There is a construction update in Torrington. The East D Street construction project is in its final stages and there will be some closure changes over the next few days. If you haven't driven through the area lately, East D Street is now open to East 28th Avenue, which provides an easy connection to Main Street.   The Chadron Area 9-1-1 lines were down yesterday. They have been restored after they learned that a fiber optic had been cut at an unknown location. The Mitchell Volunteer Fire Department recently posted that they responded to a grass fire on July 20th in the area of Murphy Road and Highway 29 north of Mitchell and Sioux County. It was likely started from a lightning strike as thunderstorms moved through the area. Luckily, the rain from those storms put out the fire before it could get very big. They did respond with eight trucks and multiple personnel.   The Alliance Fire Department project is complete. They wrote, "she's a beaut, Clark. After a six-month refurbishment project, we're happy to welcome number 342 home." Thank you to Frytech Inc. for all your hard work and taking our vision and making it a reality.

Welcome and congratulations to our two newest exclusive sponsors on Panhandle Scanner!   Probably the toughest name to spell and remember downtown, but the best Ladies Boutique around. It's JeDoubleN's Boutique and Tanning. That's right, J-E-N-N. She has two N's in her name. Her name is JeNN, JeDoubleN's Boutique in Tanning. And also, welcome to Oregon Trail Plumbing. Thank you again to those two great businesses help making Panhandle Scanner possible for the community.    What is an exclusive sponsor, you ask? Well, that's a really good question. Becoming an exclusive sponsor is like becoming king in your category of business. No other business gets to be advertised for the entire year on our platform if you secure one of our exclusive sponsorships. The very best way to get in front of a huge crowd and squeeze out your competition. It's pricey, but well worth it. Welcome again to Oregon Trail Plumbing and Heating and JeDoubleN's Boutique and Tanning.    Last night, Scanner traffic indicated in Gering near Ponderosa Drive, a third party from Colorado had requested a welfare check on her sister in reference to the statements that she made. The female was barricaded in the basement and possibly armed. No further traffic was heard on that incident, so stay tuned today to Panhandle Scanner for a follow-up on that story.    With the drought conditions in Nebraska, any amount of rainfall could cause flash flooding due to the hardness of the ground. Avoid low-lying areas and do not drive through flooded roads.   Don't forget that 17th and D closure in Gering, the intersection of 17th and D Streets.    That's going to do it for today's Scanner News. Thanks again for listening and may God bless.   I'm Brian Hale.  

As a follow-up to yesterday's early morning breaking story from WNCC, on Tuesday morning at approximately 3:42 am, the Scotts Bluff Police Department was dispatched to WNCC as security had located a subject attempting to gain access to parked vehicles. Scottsbluff officers arrived on scene and located a subject wearing a mask and carrying a backpack. The subject said he was going to shoot and kill officers and continued telling officers to shoot him. The male ran from officers and was able to climb onto the roof of the Auto-tech building.    Scottsbluff Police determined the male subject to be in a mental health crisis.   The male then laid down on the roof and refused to comply with officer commands. During the live event, Panhandle Scanner obtained a live streamed video from the subject himself. In the video, he complained that he wasn't getting the help that he needed, and he was making demands to see his kids and get something to eat and drink.   After several hours, the situation was resolved peacefully, and the subject is currently getting the help that he needed. For full details on the story and who it was, visit our news page at Panhandlescanner.com. Our continued prayers for that situation.   There was also some police activity on the EWC campus in Torrington, but don't be alarmed. What started yesterday will continue today as the Torrington Police Department is hosting a regional training event at Eastern Wyoming College focused on law enforcement response to active threat incidents. So yesterday and today, there is a significant law enforcement presence at EWC. Please be aware that this is a training event.   For all these stories and more, be sure to visit our Panhandle Scanner Facebook page and our news page at Panhandlescanner.com. That's going to do it for today's news. 

Well, there's a situation ongoing right now this morning at WNCC where an individual is on the roof of a building demanding to see his kids and to get something to eat and to drink. We'll have more on the situation today on Panhandle Scanner, so stay tuned.   Yesterday evening, a storm rolled through. Most of the panhandle got some pretty decent rain. Over an inch in some parts.   Yesterday morning around 6:40 am, there was a report of a trike bike accident that occurred at the intersection of West 3rd and Highway 385 near the Maverick Station in Alliance. Our prayers for that three-wheeled motorcycle accident in Alliance.    Around 6:23 pm, scanner traffic indicated a robbery in progress. The location was County Road 26 and Highway 26. That's a rural area. The suspects had left the scene, two Hispanic males, one 6 feet, 250 pounds, the other one 5 feet, 8 inches, 160 pounds. If you know anything about this robbery from County Road 26 yesterday, please notify your local authorities.   If you'd like to get some news from more than just the panhandle, we also have Greater Nebraska Scanner, where you'll find that AR-15 road rage incident in York County, Nebraska. A Connecticut man is under arrest for terroristic threats and other charges after a witness says he threatened him with an automatic rifle. For those familiar with weapons, there is no automatic civilian weapon. Therefore, that press release from York County should have read semi-automatic. For these stories and more across the state, follow our Greater Nebraska Scanner.   And of course, for everything in the panhandle, visit panhandlescanner.com or follow us on Facebook. 

It's been hot. We all know that.   Trooper Kleich with the Nebraska State Patrol spotted a moose in the canal near Scottbluff yesterday. He is just cooling down, evidently, from the heat wave that continues to batter the region. If you don't have to be outside in these extreme temperatures, we remind you to stay indoors and stay hydrated.   Also, watch out for livestock and wildlife on the roads, as always. Scanner traffic indicated a car vs deer accident on mile marker 15, Highway 92, Sunday night around 10:30.    There is an important lettuce recall that we want to make you aware of. Taylor Farms has initiated a recall of all iceberg lettuce from Central Mexico, which includes Marketside brands, sold at Walmart. That's a lettuce recall for iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms.    Youth crime seems to be on the rise. Not only were seven teenagers arrested in the recent SWAT operation in Scott's Bluff, Geary, and Bayard. Yesterday, two teens shot each other in Rapid City, South Dakota, where both youth ended up hospitalized and in custody.    The Sunday Scanner News is out. It's our weekly printable publication of all the week's top stories. Over 20 of them, including some important road closures around Gearing, coverage on that SWAT operation, the cannabis smash and grab, Lake Minotaur possible drowning, coverage of both Heritage Days and Minotaur's Tabor Days, as well as a charming story called Tatum's Triumphant Return. All in the Sunday Scanner, our newspaper-like format, recapping the week's top stories. Check it all out on Panhandle Scanner on Facebook or panhandlescanner.com.

Well, there's a weekend heat advisory again. Please remember to stay hydrated and indoors or in the shade whenever possible as temperatures could reach 100 degrees.   One exception, be sure to come out for the Minatare Tabor Days celebration tonight and tomorrow. Have no fear, the Broken Spoke Bar and Grill has air conditioning. The event kicks off tonight at 8pm with live entertainment.       Last night, scanner traffic indicated a situation around the 800 block of Main Street in Bayard. One user reported that it was a false report and that there was no need for an alarm.    We hear a variety of calls over scanner traffic.   One yesterday included a report of a hitchhiker walking westbound on Highway 92 and County Road 32. We always advise folks of those walkers to be sure that they look out for them as they're traveling.    Followers reported that a drone was lost in the Northfield Park area. They were asking for help in trying to locate it. If you find a black drone in the Northfield Park area of Gering, Nebraska, please contact our page at Panhandle Scanner.    There was a situation in Frank Park in Scottsbluff yesterday. We received several reports from multiple parents upset about what occurred, which included reports of a male described as white, slender and bald head, possibly late 30s, attacking teenagers that were in a vehicle parked near Frank Park. We'll have more on that as that story develops.    And there's a search party for a missing dog in Bridgeport, Nebraska. Tatum is six months old. He got out in Bridgeport between H and I streets. He's a Border Collie Red Heeler Mix, nicknamed Tatum Nuggets. There's a search party and a reward for this missing dog in Bridgeport. See our post on Panhandle Scanner.  

Gering, Scottsbluff, Bayard, those were the three cities that were hit. Early on July 15th, SWAT activities were reported in those three cities, in Scotts Bluff and Morrill Counties.   Panhandle Scanner News Team was in close contact with authorities that executed high-profile warrants in Scottsbluff, Bayard, and Gering in the early morning hours of July 15th. Media personnel, Cody Thomas with the Nebraska State Patrol, tells Panhandle Scanner that Sheriff Mark Overman and Sheriff Brown with Scottsbluff County Sheriff's Office took the lead on this warrant execution assignment. Following multiple months of investigation by W.I.N.G. and partner agencies, law enforcement served multiple search and arrest warrants beginning in the early morning hours.   Due to the nature of the crimes and weapons involved, the warrants were served by the Scotts Bluff County SWAT Team, the Nebraska State Patrol SWAT Team, and the U.S. Marshals Metro Fugitive Task Force. All warrants were served without incident. The Scottsbluff and Gering Police Departments, Scottsbluff County Sheriff's Office, and the Nebraska State Patrol, including the Air Wing, Homeland Security Investigators Agents, and Regional West Ambulance Service, also provided personnel for this key operation.   Two adults, Preston Torres-Islas, age 18, and Rochne Gukeisen, age 19, were charged with possession of a machine gun. Five juveniles were arrested, three aged 17, one 15, and one 16. All are in custody.   Dangerous drugs, automatic weapons, and out-of-control youth.    Thank you to the agencies that carried out this operation, keeping our community safe. And don't forget our public record every day for more crime news.

We are thankful to the sponsors and to this radio station, which is not only heard on their flagship station in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, licensed out of Terrytown, but KCMI Radio is also heard in Sidney on 93.5 FM and in Rushville at 99.1. And you can also listen to KCMI on the web, streaming on their website through Live 365 Radio and also on TuneIn.   Speaking of that Sidney area, the Potter Volunteer Fire Department is holding a CPR class where registration for that ends today. That class is July 19th. For more information about that CPR class, contact the Potter Volunteer Fire Department.    A traffic stop on I-80 was initiated when troopers noticed a vehicle matching a Bolo or Be On The Lookout issued from Illinois. Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol working with the United States Marshal Service have arrested three people just outside of Kimball, including a person wanted for attempted homicide in Illinois.    So what do you think? Should daylight savings time be permanent and stop all this changing clocks back and forth? Well, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill making time change permanent, but the bill has to pass the Senate. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Sunshine Protection Act in a bipartisan 308 to 117 vote. The bill must pass the Senate and be signed by the president to become law. Though President Donald Trump has indicated support, the bill faces immediate headwinds in the Senate due to ongoing disagreements about whether permanent standard time or permanent daylight savings time is safer for winter commutes.    Find that post and lots of local opinions on our Facebook page at Panhandle Scanner.   As we were going on the air this morning, we received word of multiple SWAT incidents throughout the panhandle. Stay tuned to Panhandle Scanner throughout the day.

  Yesterday did have some significant scanner traffic.   On Monday at 10:37 am, traffic indicated a stolen vehicle.  A 2024 Jeep Wrangler with a lift kit. License plate Nebraska 60FEET6. Last known location heading west on Highway 88 from Highway 71.    Based on that license plate number and our experience on the mound and behind the plate, this Jeep may belong to a baseball player.   In any case, Scotts Bluff County has the vehicle in sight and was headed west on Highway 88 towards Wyoming. Once the vehicle hit the state line, both Gering and Scotts Bluff County were no longer in pursuit of the vehicle.   A short time later, it was the Wyoming Highway Patrol posting that the vehicle had been caught.   "Two juvenile suspects are in custody after a high-speed chase that started in Nebraska and ended in Cheyenne."   The Wyoming Highway Patrol was alerted to a chase in progress coming out of Nebraska into Goshen County involving the stolen Jeep Wrangler. Wyoming troopers made contact and joined the pursuit at 11.31am near the Antelope East Cheyenne on the I-80 service road. The pursuit continued at a high rate of speed with the vehicle exiting onto Campstool Road where Cheyenne PD joined the pursuit.   The Jeep then left the road near Sierra Trading Post and attempted to jump the railroad track south of Sun Valley. The suspects fleed, entering a residence in southern Sun Valley where they were taken into custody with the aid of a K-9 unit from the Cheyenne Police Department. Great teamwork with multiple agencies including Scotts Bluff County Sheriff's Department, Gering Police Department, Cheyenne Police Department, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office, and the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

The City of Gering officials would like to inform citizens that Pacific Boulevard from Holly Drive to Beverly Drive will be closed beginning today, July 13th through Friday, the 31st of July. Residents on Pacific Boulevard will have access to their houses. Officials respectfully request that drivers use caution if traveling in this area.    Also, the City of Scottsbluff would like to advise the public that there's going to be some chip and seal work being done on Highway 26 between Avenue I and 21st Avenue. Please use caution on Highway 26.   The Sunday Scanner, our weekly Scanner News printable publication is out. Stories this week included some C-130 training at Western Nebraska Regional Airport, a missing iguana that was found, three arrested for possession, juveniles arrested on e-bikes, Kimball meth and arson arrests, an attempted break-in and assault arrest, Kimball power outage, and the Freedom Truck in Gering were just a few of the stories for this past week. The Sunday Scanner is a printable eight-page, currently, publication, up from four pages from last week, with our goal of bringing you the week's top stories each and every week. That's the Sunday Scanner, and if you want to find it on Facebook, you can use the hashtag, #TheSundayScanner. And currently, the only place it's available is on our Facebook page. We also have plans for email delivery, as well as U.S. mail, if requested. Check it out every Sunday by 4 a.m. The Sunday Scanner from Panhandle Scanner. Learn more about it on Panhandlescanner.com. 

Well, speaking of Gering, that's the place to be this weekend. Thousands have traveled from all over the state and possibly the country to come to Gering, Nebraska's oldest and largest celebration.   That's right, last night, the Oregon Trail Days BBQ kicked off the celebration. Lots of activities planned for today, including that five-mile run and mud volleyball that started early this morning. The Kiddie Parade is at 10 o'clock, followed by Kiddie Games in the Park, and the Panhandle Quilt Guild Regional Show going on all day, the 22nd Annual Rod and Custom Car Show in front of the courthouse, and of course, the 40th Annual Food Fair tonight, and free music from the Gering City Band, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. And of course, lots scheduled for Saturday with Hotel California, the Eagles Tribute Band. Gates open at 5 p.m. for that, and that happens out at Five Rocks Amphitheater.    And remember, if you need a safe ride home, don't drive drunk. Please call 633-6397. If you need a ride, a safe ride home, 633-6397. And don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday, when available.    Hey, everyone. This is Brian Hale. If you've heard this program before, you know I have been offering website help for many years. In fact, we've been in the business for over 20, and we'd love to help you for anything website-related, even if you just need some advice. It's free. Email support at halemultimedia.com or call 940-224-6315. Portfolio, pricing, and contacts all on halemultimedia.com. 

Well, if you're not busy today and you are in the Gering area around 11th and P Streets, if you want to make $100, go out and find that missing iguana! That's right, we have a missing iguana right now. Goncho's owners are offering a $100 reward if you can safely return him. Contact us if you know anything or have found a missing iguana in Gering.   Both Scottsbluff and Gering have road closures to tell you about. Check those on our Panhandle Scanner Facebook page. Two different addresses are listed, one in Scottsbluff and one in Gering.   Last night, there was a strange call at Webber's Furniture. It was just Tom Bodett. He had left the light on. No, actually, an employee called back and let us know. It was accidental. There was no reason for alarm.   A two-vehicle accident happened yesterday around 24th Street and Avenue I in Scottsbluff. No injuries were reported and patients refused transport to the hospital.    Meanwhile, out at Western Nebraska Regional Airport, the military was doing some C-130 training with a maneuver called Touch and Go's.  C-130s are the large military planes that carry army personnel. So don't be alarmed if you see some large planes in the air from time to time.    To listen to Scanner traffic, be sure to visit our website at panhandlescanner.com for not only the live feed, but tons of resources for things around the community.   Don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday when available. We also offer free Look Who's Hiring posts. And our event calendar on diggingdeeper.net is also free. Contact us if you've got something going on!    

More Gering City news, not only do we have the big Oregon Trail Day celebration kicking off on Thursday, but the City put out a message asking residents to voluntarily reduce their water usage. Due to excessive water use, the City's water storage reservoirs are not filling to capacity during the evening and nighttime hours. The request is intended to help avoid the need for mandatory water restrictions. The City is asking people to reduce their water usage by 10%. The City of Terrytown reiterated the message as water is purchased from them and this would probably apply to Minatare as well. It wouldn't hurt to just reduce water usage by 10%.    In weather news, a landspout video was shot by Serdafied Trucking at Pine Bluffs, Wyoming. You can find that on our Facebook page, as well as the results of a torrential rainstorm with some small hail in it in the City of Rushville. They were pummeled last night and had some flash flooding in the streets. But a heads up on the first heat wave warning of the summer. Highs ranging from 95 to possibly 105 degrees and may break some records. Limit your outdoors activities, hydrate, and check on your pets.    Last night, scanner traffic indicated a car versus deer accident with possible injuries. To catch that live scanner traffic as it happens, visit our Panhandle Scanner Facebook page. And for the follow up and longer stories, our website at panhandlescanner.com. Click on the news section.   And just 10 days away, July 18th is that Tabor Day celebration with the parade, pancake feed, and more. July 18th in Minatare, Nebraska, Tabor Days.

Panhandle Scanner News is brought to you by R&C Welding in Gering, Nebraska.   Speaking of Gering, the Horizon Music Fest is coming up Labor Day weekend, September 5th and 6th, giant free concert with national artists at Five Rocks Amphitheater. But before that, we've got Oregon Trail Days kicking off here in a couple of days. Thursday night, July 9th is the kickoff barbecue in downtown Gering.    Now on a serious note, if you enjoy alcoholic beverages, this message is for you. Write this telephone number down, 633-6397, 633-6397. That's your safe ride home. If you drink too much and need a safe ride home from the Gearing festivities, call 633-6397 during Oregon Trail Days. And a special thanks to Lisa Betz-Marquez and the former Gearing Citizen newspaper for starting that program years ago.   The Panhandle was blessed with an amazing light show last night from Mother Nature as lightning lit up the skies. See our Facebook page for some incredible photos from local photographers @rightturnchasers and Troy Bryan.    If you follow our page on social media at Panhandle Scanner, you know that we cover news for a variety of areas. Yes, we are located in the Panhandle, but we produce news for anything significant that happens in the five major categories. Those five major categories are police and crime, fire and rescue, severe weather, missing persons and safety alerts. If there's news across the nation, even, that pertains to these topics, it's possible you'll see it on Panhandle Scanner. Yes, Panhandle Scanner is more than just a local news service. We cover the entire Panhandle and have followers in all 50 states. Be sure to follow at Panhandle Scanner or visit our website.   Special thanks to the amazing photography from local extraordinaire, Troy Bryan.    

Do you miss the fat Sunday paper with lots of stories and coverage from everything that happened throughout the week? There once was a day when the community had a big fat Sunday newspaper.   We understand that especially with the news cycle being so short and news happening every day, that people need a reminder from week to week on what actually happened. We've put together a new weekly publication called the Sunday Scanner. Each week the stories fly by so fast we often forget about them. So here's a recap from this past week.   Weather and fireworks captured a majority of the headlines this week.   News for the week of June 28th through July 4th, 2026   Our top story was the winter storm in July in Northwest Nebraska. This post received over 2 million views within the first 48 hours. The area was pummeled with several inches of hail that caused flooding across roadways.    Other major stories included the wind damage north of the border near South Dakota, as well as at Lake McConaughey where campers were flipped and tossed into the water.    There was an infant death investigation in Alliance and vandalism at the Gering Pool. Earlier in the week, a young female went missing at Lake Minatare near Boy Scout Island, but was found immediately by Scotts Bluff County deputies.   This inaugural issue also includes all of the fire news including the log road fire update and the Scotts Bluff Fire Department's fireworks call response report for 2026.   Thankfully, there were only 2 Fireworks calls this year, both minor.    For all these stories and more catch our new Sunday Scanner, the weekly recap from Panhandle Scanner! 

It was a busy night over Scanner traffic, but fortunately, not very many calls for fireworks fires. One call involving fireworks was out at the State Recreation Area in Bridgeport, where a juvenile was cited for fireworks and released to his parents.    If you spotted some black smoke yesterday in the area of Scottsbluff Airport, that was a controlled burn, according to airport personnel.    East Overland and 3rd Avenue in Scottsbluff was the location of a call for a man who was severely scraped up after experiencing a fall and had ETOH (alcohol) on board. That was around 8.40 p.m. He was transported to Regional West.    There was a Gearing medical call just before that at the McDonald's. If you noticed ambulances there, that was a 17-year-old female experiencing a seizure. She was transported to the hospital.    Around 11 p.m., Trooper 483 received a report that an individual in a black Dodge Ram was possibly 10-47 or DUI. The traffic stop occurred around Highway 30, County Road 155, and when it was over, it was one male, 10-15, headed to the Sidney Jail.   For these cases where we don't hear any follow-up, you can always check the public record the next day. You can get to that public record by visiting our website or by going to our Facebook page by the same name. That's the public record. 20-plus different counties across Nebraska every Monday through Friday. If you have something to report, be sure to give us a call or message the page right there on Panhandle Scanner. 

Power has been restored to all services affected by the Tuesday evening storms around Lake McConaughy. Emergency responders were dispatched at around 10:38 pm Tuesday night after reports that multiple campers had been overturned near Beach Area 5. Thankfully, there were no hospitalizations, and all power has been restored.   In Box Butte County, the Sheriff's Office is investigating an infant death that occurred last month. On June 22nd, the Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the Box Butte General Hospital regarding the death of a nine-month-old infant. During the course of the initial investigation, numerous concerns were identified. Those concerns led deputies to conduct an extensive and ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child's death. The investigation remains active, and all parties are innocent until proven guilty. However, as a result of the investigation, Alyssa Parkins has been arrested and charged with intentional child abuse resulting in death, strangulation resulting in death, and two separate counts of intentional child abuse, all felonies. This is the second child that has died in her custody. However, another man was charged with her first daughter's murder four years ago, almost to this day. Our prayers for that situation and everyone involved.   Now, something a little lighter. How about a two-day Tabor Days celebration in Minatare, Nebraska? July 17th and 18th, the first two-day Tabor Days we can remember! Live bands both nights, a parade, emergency services, vendors, food, fun, cheerleaders... you gotta come!   Tabor Days, July 17th and 18th, Minatare, Nebraska. 

Yesterday, shortly before noon, Engine 1 of the Scottsbluff Fire Department had cleared a previous call for service when they observed smoke in the area around South Beltline and 9th Avenue. Crews went to investigate, and upon arrival observed staff members utilizing heavy equipment to remove debris that had accidentally caught on fire after cutting operations. Fire personnel assisted with extinguishing the fire and were able to clear the scene within an hour.   Speaking of fires, last night the high winds associated with a passing thunderstorm compromised the fire line on the northern end of the burn area of the Log Road Fire. The Red Flag Warning is in effect in the area, per Crawford Volunteer Fire Department. The Log Road Fire has burned over 1,200 acres and is estimated at 0% containment.    And those thunderstorms also were in the news last night, with reports of high wind and power outages in the town of Llewellyn, and reports of campers being displaced at Lake McConaughey. We'll have more on that story as it becomes available. And again, remember to always have several different ways to get alerts. Visit PanhandleScanner.com for a series of resources for emergency alerts and other things.    Drone programs are finding some success here recently. The Kearney, Nebraska Police Department had a golden opportunity to display their new drone program capabilities to its fullest. After fleeing from officers, they launched a drone and safely took the suspect into custody within minutes. The drone program enhances officer and community safety by providing real-time aerial support and helping bring incidents like this to a safe conclusion. Drones aren't all bad, unless you're a criminal.

Derived from the Declaration of Independence and legally codified in the U.S. Constitution, American freedom functions as a negative constitution, explicitly dictating what the government cannot do to its citizens. Rather than granting rights, the American system is built on the philosophy that human liberties are inherent, unalienable, and merely protected by the state.   And we do all enjoy our freedoms, especially for those who enjoy blowing off fireworks in the middle of the summer. Our stance is that we generally enjoy freedoms over government restrictions. However, you must feel compassion for the large number of paid and primarily volunteer firefighters that are out there risking their lives to save others.   You may be aware of the fire near Crawford, Nebraska, which is now nearly 1,000 acres and at 0% containment. But did you know there is a series of fires in Colorado and on the Utah border, virtually covering the entire west half of Colorado?    Three firefighters have lost their lives already. Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township. Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona. And Sidney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Alabama.    The firefighters were assigned to the Rifle Heel Attack Crew and were engaged in the initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire when the incident occurred.   Two additional firefighters were injured during the incident and are receiving medical care. That Snyder Fire on the Colorado-Utah border is now over 30,000 acres. Please pray for the families of the victims and for everyone out there fighting these fires.   Hopefully more positive news tomorrow. 

Things that go boom Fireworks and thunderstorms. That's what the news has been lately. People still have questions about when and where fireworks can be discharged, therefore we've put together a comprehensive article of every town's decision that we could obtain and put it into one article for you, it's called panhandle fireworks decisions. You can find it on the web or on our Facebook page Panhandle Scanner. There have been a couple minor fires from fireworks as expected, and as is normal. So far, to our knowledge, one in Gordon and one in Gering. Common sense should prevail, but please follow all local regulations.   A series of thunderstorms have rolled through recently a strong storm system brought between one and a third inches ip to 2.2 inches of rain between June 26th Friday night and early Saturday morning the 27th. Last night some thunderstorms were forming in the northern part of the panhandle, but nothing significant developed.    According to open AI, the National Weather Service in North Platte and local tracking agencies like the Panhandle Scanner tracked the highly active system as it moved through Cherry and Sheridan counties late Sunday night. It's good to see that the search engines and open AI are picking up on our news reports and thank you for following panhandle scanner and other sources for your breaking weather alerts.   Remember, if you have something to report, just click on send message on our page or give us a call on the phone number listed on the page and be sure to follow panhandle scanner for that breaking news and that daily public record.

On June 23rd, the Kimball County Sheriff's Office and Kimball County EMS responded to a one-vehicle rollover on Interstate 80. There were no injuries, unfortunately. Please buckle up and drive safe.   A train derailment was captured south of Cheyenne. Intense winds blew over multiple train cars along the tracks, with hail covering the roadside. A semi-truck also reportedly blew over on southbound I-25. As always, give emergency crews room to work. And move over. It's the law.    The skies were busy again last night, with an active tornado warning in Laramie County, Wyoming, but not including the town of Cheyenne.   And the mail has finally arrived via the National Pony Express Re-ride. Congratulations to all the riders who made the 1,900-plus mile journey.   Don't forget those construction plans on Main Street in Bridgeport. They're working on the bridge north of town right now, but there will be construction beginning in September in downtown Bridgeport.    And there's a new memorial event that has been set up for the late Chance Englebert. July 11th, 2026 at the Fall River County Fairgrounds in Edgemont, South Dakota. Chance lived a life with a fearless spirit, a contagious smile, and a heart that left a lasting mark on everyone he met. Join them as they celebrate the memories, stories, and legacy that he left behind.    And of course, don't forget that public record every Monday through Friday when available.

As many towns and counties are still declaring their preference whether or not to ban or allow fireworks for the 2026 season, weather permitting, Gering's Allred Brothers display will be held at the Five Rocks Amphitheater again this year. That's the Allred Brothers display at Five Rocks.   Meanwhile, the Banner County Fire Chief has declared a burn ban in Banner County until further notice. No burning is allowed of any kind other than those allowed by exception, which are very few. Just don't burn during a burn ban. And that includes fireworks. Check our Facebook page for that burn ban from Banner County and watch out for others that may pop up.  Fortunately, there is some precipitation anticipated between now and the 4th of July.   You may remember the man that doused his father with gasoline and murdered him on 11th Avenue in Scottsbluff last spring. Elijah Cervantes has entered a plea of not guilty by insanity in the death of his 74-year-old father, Anthony. The trial is set to begin in Scotts Bluff County. We'll have more on that case once a verdict is reached.    With the recent precipitation in the Crawford area, there's a new flash flood alert for the burn scar that was caused by the South Fork Fire. With no vegetation in the ground, water tends to run off a lot more. So please use caution in those areas.    For these stories and more, visit Panhandle Scanner or Panhandlescanner.com. Now over 25 million visitors to our website. And don't forget that popular public record every Monday through Friday when available.

Our top story of the day comes from last night's Sidney City Council meeting. The Sidney Nebraska City Council voted to allow fireworks this year, from July 1st at 8am to July 5th at 1am.  However, the conversation got very heated and police were called to the scene, despite the fact that the police chief was on scene at the meeting. We were getting live updates when Mr. Balfour stopped by to speak with our reporter outside, to show his appreciation for coverage after the council meeting, when several police cars showed up. We didn't hear of any further action taken, but we'll let you know if anything serious came of it. It was a verbal argument over fireworks.    Subsequently, the Cheyenne County Commissions voted on Wednesday morning, to BAN fireworks in rural areas of the county, with fines of $250, $500, and $1,000 for first, second and third offense.   Speaking of fireworks, there is a discussion on venue change in Gering. The Allred display typically takes place at Five Rocks Amphitheater, but there is discussion this year about moving it to Oregon Trail Park in Gering. Find that post and be sure to comment on our Facebook page.    Little Lake Alice is back! The irrigation water has flowed in and refilled Little Lake Alice. There is a time-lapse video from Troy Bryan on our Facebook page at Panhandle Scanner.   And there'll be a planned outage for the Village of Morrill coming up on the 28th. That's a Sunday, so they wanted to be sure to put out that notice early, and they asked for our help. So, folks in Morrill, be ready for that short electrical outage on Sunday morning the 28th.   Several businesses took damage to their properties around the Panhandle, and one of those was Monument Shadows Golf Course. The storm damaged almost all of the greens. The grounds crew worked all day to repair as much damage as possible. The golf course will be closed at least until noon on Wednesday. The driving range is open, and they thank you for your patience while they get the greens back into shape.     

Unfortunately, natural disasters, and especially hailstorms, can make several people in the community a target. Well, the storms certainly cause damage all throughout the Panhandle, and we feel our job at Panhandle Scanner is to help the community. Over the years, we have acquired major sponsors in several different categories that can be trusted and called upon in emergencies like this.    First of all, we want to make sure to remind you, the number one tip for roof damage is to call your roofing company before you call your insurance company. That tip comes from Valley Roofing and Restoration, and we have several other tips from Kevin Smith on how you can protect yourself from not only being scammed, but by simply making choices in the wrong order.    For insurance companies, we highly recommend American Family Insurance, the Kendall Henderson Agency. He's been a sponsor of the Scanner from year one.   And we're sure there is plenty of fence damage out there. Call Custom-Made Fencing. That's Sean Low. They can help you there.    Three and a half years ago, when we began the Favorite Local Small Business in the Panhandle, it was the third quarter of 2023, and Platte River Glass was overwhelmingly your choice for Favorite Local Small Business. If you need glass repair, contact Platte River Glass, and be sure to have your VIN number handy.   For vehicle damage, we recommend Bumper-to-Bumper Body and Paint. Quality that counts.    And if you need help cleaning up your yard, we recommend Cauyer Glanz from Western Nebraska Landscaping. Give Cauyer a call.    You can find all these great businesses either on Panhandle Search or Panhandle Scanner on the web.  Just click on Just for Fun, and then Sponsors.    Police are still searching for that whitish flatbed involved in the hit and run accident at Maverik on June 9, 2026. Some people have said they noticed that truck in the Mitchell and Morrill areas of the panhandle. Be on the lookout and please call it in.

A lot of excitement over the weekend for possible inclement weather, but thankfully, no tornadoes in Nebraska, at least not in our immediate panhandle. A tornado did touch down, however, in Wyoming, with a video captured by a local sheriff that made it onto national news. It was in a rural area, and there was no damage reported.    The panhandle is certainly in a drought. A drought like this, according to some, has never been experienced like this before here in western Nebraska in our history. It's hard to believe, but Little Lake Alice, completely dry for the first time in memory. Please pray for rain.    Also, we're asking for your prayers for a storm chaser in northeastern Colorado who rolled his vehicle after hydroplaning over the weekend. Big Dog Northeastern Colorado Storm Chasers reported that Abraham, nicknamed Little Dog Five, had his seatbelt on, but unfortunately his vehicle lost control after hydroplaning and it rolled. We do know he's okay with a couple of scrapes, but denies any other injuries. The vehicle is totaled. Please pray for all of our storm chasers out there risking their lives and their property to bring you the news.    And last we heard, Scotts Bluff Police Department are still investigating that hit and run accident at the Maverick Station in Scotts Bluff on June 9th, where a white, older, flatbed work truck backed into another vehicle. You can see that picture and videotape on our Facebook page at Panhandle Scanner.  

The Pony Express rode through yesterday through Gering, Nebraska, and through several parts of the Panhandle. In fact, one of the riders called us from Bridgeport to confirm the transfer location. Michelle Hunter LaTowski was a rider from Scottsbluff, who did several different legs of the re-ride. Find pictures and video from the Pony Express on our page at Panhandle Scanner, and some interesting information, like did you know that the riders switch off every mile? That's why we see them riding like heck away from each stop, but every mile it's a fresh rider and horse, and that leapfrogging happens through all 1,966 miles of the trail.   And a special thanks to Nebraska, writes the National Pony Express. Did you know there are over 505 miles of the Pony Express in Nebraska alone? Special thanks to Nebraska ponies and riders.   And of course, local scanner traffic included the usual calls for motor vehicle accidents, traffic stops, and traffic complaints, but in Grand Island, police arrested Ignacio Contreras for threatening to kill five people with a stick. On Wednesday night, around 7 44 p.m., police received a call at West Phoenix Avenue for a man threatening to kill five people. Contreras was arrested for felony terroristic threats, misdemeanor third-degree assault, and five misdemeanor counts of disturbing the peace.    For these stories and more, be sure to follow us at Panhandle Scanner on Facebook. Also follow PanhandleScanner.com on the web for our full news page with various articles, not just the ones you see on Facebook.   Severe weather is predicted for Saturday, so just a heads up there. We'll have more on Panhandle Scanner, so be sure to follow us.    That's going to do it for today's scanner news.

Scanner traffic indicated a grass fire just around midnight, County Road 26, County Road S, Minatare. Several pages went out including a request for mutual aid from Scotts Bluff Rural Fire Protection District.   Speaking of fires, a lot of cities have made decisions on the fireworks ban for this year, although some cities and counties have not yet posted their decisions. Those we do know about that have said no, for sure, to fireworks this year are Crawford, Hemingford, Harrison, Gordon, Alliance, and Kimball. For sure, at this time, there may be more. Check our Facebook page to find out more as that list grows. Some cities and counties, like Rushville in Sheridan County, have not put out any information yet. We expect to see something from all of the counties very soon.   If you're a fan of the Pony Express, stay tuned to Panhandle Scanner for the exact time in which that rider and pony will be at the Scotts Bluff National Monument in Gearing. Anticipated arrival time is 4 p.m., but there is a GPS tracker live on the horse, and you can track them on their way. Visit our page at Panhandle Scanner and click the tab Resources for that Pony Express tracker.   The Gering City Band will be playing tonight as well at 7.30 p.m. in the Gering City Park. Be sure to go enjoy some relaxing music from the Gering City Band tonight at 7.30 p.m.   Two big events coming up July 17th and 18th, that's Tabor Days July 17th and 18th, and then July 18th, the Cheyenne County Fair begins. Lots on our calendar for the future, so stay tuned to Panhandle Scanner for more.

Well, the talk of the town is definitely the fireworks decisions. Those are really heating up the conversations. A lot of confusion has come between jurisdictions. Rural versus city limits. Statewide rules versus local rules. A fire ban versus a fireworks ban. So much confusion. Red flag warnings, fire bans, and fireworks bans.   What are the differences and how do they relate? Due to the recent confusion in the Scotts Bluff County Commissioner's meeting over whether or not they could actually vote to not allow fireworks has prompted a call to the governor's office. Local businesswoman Lindsey Lewis of Off the Water at Lake Minatare contacted the Governor's office along with Senator Brian Hardin's office about amending the current legislation to include fireworks in the verbiage. We're told through Lindsey that Commissioner Mike Blue, after evaluating the legislative process and the current legislation, stated that they were not actually allowed to vote against the fireworks.   That's why you saw three county commissioners overturning the ban. They claimed that without state legislation changing it would have been a or illegal for them to declare a ban. So much confusion and now it's our job to sort it out. We will be writing an article on Panhandle Scanner for each town and their decision in the Panhandle. In our own online poll, over 4,000 people have voted in the first 24 hours with 89 percent of the public believing that fireworks should be banned for 2026 in the Panhandle of Nebraska. Follow that news story on Panhandlescanner.com or our Facebook page by the same name.

(CRAWFORD, Neb.) -- There is some good news up north. Northwest Nebraska is thrilled to announce that Fort Robinson State Park is back open on a limited basis. All fort lodging and camping, the fort restaurant, the trailside museum, the history center and historical buildings, the post playhouse theater, historical tours and fishing at the ponds are all open. There is still active firefighting going on however. Please do not impede response vehicles, monitor conditions and road closures and respect road and trail signs.    (ALLIANCE, Neb.) -- If you haven't heard, there's been a third arrest in the Ebram Sifuentes murder case. Nebraska State Patrol investigators released additional information in the case that led to a third arrest. Last September, investigators arrested Tamara Bingham on multiple charges including first-degree murder related to the homicide of Ebram Sifuentes. He was found deceased in rural Box Butte County. Investigators also arrested Matthew Landreth as an accessory to a felony. Then on June 11th, investigators performed a search warrant at a location in rural Sheridan County and subsequently arrested Ruby Bingham, Tamara's mother, on charges of tampering with physical evidence, unlawful disposal of human remains and accessory to a felony.   (GERING, Neb.) -- In regional news, the Pony Express is off and on their way to Nebraska. Stay tuned for that route information and more on Panhandle Scanner. They should be at the Scotts Bluff National Monument on Thursday around 4 pm.   (EDWARDS AFB, Calif.) -- In national news, a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber disintegrated into nothingness shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in California yesterday. We along with others are finding it hard to believe that there was so little left of that airplane from the video available to the public. For that story and more, you can always visit our news page at panhandlescanner.com or our Facebook page by the same name.

I-80 travelers, please be advised that both eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 80 at Potter will be closed Tuesday, June 16th, for bridge work. Traffic in both directions will be diverted onto the on and off ramps at the Potter Interchange throughout the day. Motorists should expect delays. Please reduce speeds in the work zone and use caution while traveling through the area. That's the Potter Exchange on I-80, closed in both directions Tuesday all day. Detours will be provided.    The winner has been announced for our second quarter 2026 Favorite Local Small Business in the Panhandle. And would you look at that, from the small town of Hay Springs, Nebraska, we present your choice for the second quarter award. Congratulations to Farm to Family Cooperative, a small hometown citizen-owned grocery store in Hay Springs.    On Saturday, Lyman-Kiowa Fire Department responded to a fire at County Road 10 and County Road F. In fact, that's where the scanner call came from originally, but there were multiple fires along the highway there, suspected to be caused by a chain that was dragging and improperly attached. Please remember, in any trailering situation, to secure your chain and your hitch properly.   Around 7.52 p.m., scanner traffic indicated a manhunt for an individual in a wooded area near Bushnell. 23 minutes later, scanner traffic indicated one individual, 10-15, in custody or under arrest.    For all these stories and more, be sure to visit our page at Panhandle Scanner on Facebook or our website by the same name, Panhandlescanner.com. 

At 10 o'clock yesterday morning, Keith County was paged for two children in a raft that had gotten blown into Lake McConaughey between beach axis 13 and 14. Keystone-Lemoyne Fire, Ogallala Fire, Keith County Sheriff's Office, and Keith County EMS all responded. Keystone-Lemoyne Fire Department launched two marine craft and picked up both young men in the raft just southwest of Arthur Bay about the middle of the lake. They were both wearing life jackets and were very glad to see the rescue boat pull up. Both were exhausted and hypothermic.   We had a disturbing call come across scanner traffic yesterday afternoon in Alliance. Scanner traffic indicated a gunshot wound. And around that same time, eyewitnesses were reporting to us that several police vehicles were speeding down Mississippi Avenue. Eventually, they found the individual at 6th and Grand. And unfortunately, the self-inflicted wound was fatal. Our prayers for that situation in Alliance and for all mental health crisis.   Seems there have been quite a few mushroom busts lately. The drug known as psilocybin has been the talk of several departments lately. Lancaster County Sheriff's Deputy Houchin recently gave a press conference on the young man who took some illegally enhanced gummies and ended up in a coma for two days. He didn't say exactly what substance that was in the gummies, but it was likely psilocybin.   Recently, a Scottsbluff business was busted for selling illegal mushrooms. Read more about that story on our Facebook page at Panhandle Scanner or on our news page at PanhandleScanner.com.   And don't forget our brand new Morrill County Scanner page. If you're interested in news for Morrill County, Nebraska, be sure to follow it at Morrill County Scanner.

We do have a few decisions that have been finalized for the fireworks this year. Many people are concerned about that due to the wildfires that are currently raging across Nebraska. But in City Council news, we do know four decisions have been made so far for local towns. Scottsbluff, Gearing, and Morrill have said yes to fireworks, and Potter has said no.   Please see our Facebook page or our news page for those exact times and dates. As you all know, that South Fork fire is raging near Crawford and Harrison. As of this morning, the fire is at 23,000 acres, per the perimeter uploaded to the National Interagency Fire Center.   Evacuations are in order for Fort Robinson State Park in Dawes County and the area west of Dodd Road and south of Cottonwood Road. Those are evacuation orders, with evacuation warnings set for residences south of Highway 20 to Four Mile Road in Sioux County and residents in the city of Crawford. You are under evacuation warning. Be ready to leave at any moment. Evacuees are directed to Chadron, Alliance, and Scotts Bluff. Find more about this story on panhandlescanner.com.    And look for our new Morrill County Scanner. Special thanks to Bridget Lehman for taking over the reins there. Look forward to more uncontrolled media coverage from Morrill County on Morrill County Scanner. Website coming soon. In the meantime, be sure to follow that Facebook page, Morrill County Scanner.    And don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday, when available. All on Panhandle Scanner.

A very busy day yesterday for Panhandle Scanner admins. So much activity that we've hired two new admins.   This is a big announcement for Morrill County. Starting today, you will see a new page on Facebook for Morrill County Scanner. And for more improved local weather and news coverage in the Scottsbluff and Gearing area, we've hired another local reporter.   Welcome to both Bridget and Cody and a big show of appreciation for our primary admin, Tim Mendez. Yesterday, Timothy was very busy tracking the South Fork Fire near Crawford. According to the Watch Duty app, the fire is just under 9,000 acres per the perimeter uploaded to the National Interagency Fire Center or NIFC.   The South Fork Fire has crossed Nebraska Highway 20 and is moving southeast. The highway is currently closed. US 20 between Main Street and Harrison and Nebraska 71 near Crawford is impassable per Nebraska 511.   US Forest Service and local volunteer fire departments began the initial attack on the South Fork Fire yesterday around 4 45 p.m. in the area of Soldier Creek Wilderness in the Nebraska National Forest Pine Ridge Ranger District. And don't forget our public record every Monday through Friday when available. And of course our Look Who's Hiring section and our community calendar all on panhandlescanner.com. For more fire coverage and the rest of our stories, please visit panhandlescanner.com or our Facebook page by the same name.  

Well, our big story overnight was the flooding that occurred north of Bayard on L62A. That's the link that goes from the North Bayard Junction to the Angora Hill Junction, a very vital roadway that is now closed due to major flooding last night.   We issued a flash flood warning at 8.09 p.m., but by just after 10 p.m., a major water rescue was underway on L-62A. According to the Bayard Fire Department, County Road 83 is also closed, as well as Roads 104 and 106 due to one or more bridges out. Many roads north of Highway 26, L-62A, and east of CR-73 are also impassable, or nearly so.   Stay tuned to Panhandle Scanner today for news on that reopening.   In other Scanner traffic, around 8.30 p.m., a two-vehicle accident was reported, with a family of three being transported to Regional West Medical Center with minor injuries.   In the 9 p.m. hour, Nebraska State Patrol and Kimball County Sheriff's Office had one female 10-15 after a 10-6 PC or probable cause search turned up code 3572. For those codes, check our website at panhandlescanner.com under Resources. Her vehicle was towed from the scene, and the Nebraska State Patrol transported one male 10-12, or non-arrested subject, also to the jail.   For all these stories and more, be sure to visit our news page every day at panhandlescanner.com, or our social media accounts by the same name.