AGP Executive Report

Twin Falls In-N-Out Shooting: Officials identified three people killed in the Aug. 1 attack, including employee Ashley Garibay, and said suspected gunman Chad Williams died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound; investigators are still working to determine motive. Local Heroes: Reports continue to spotlight bystanders and an off-duty Idaho State Police trooper who confronted the shooter, with families and community members rallying around victims. Education Labor Talks: Blaine County School District and the teachers’ union agreed to restart contract negotiations for the 2026-27 school year after mediation stalled, with a public meeting set for Aug. 12. Idaho Nuclear Debate: A new push for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus puts Idaho in the spotlight again, renewing arguments about whether the state should expand nuclear waste storage. Idaho Business/Finance: Idaho Copper reshuffled leadership, naming Robert Scannell executive chairman and Bruce Harmon CFO. Back-to-School Planning: Niche released its 2026 ranking of Idaho’s best public high schools, drawing attention to Treasure Valley schools.

Twin Falls In-N-Out Tragedy: Authorities identified the three people killed in the Aug. 1 shooting at the newly opened Twin Falls In-N-Out: Ashley Garibay (23, Stockton, CA), Christopher “Toph” Claunch (59, Hagerman, ID), and Dale Schultz (66, Salt Lake City, UT). Police say gunman Chad Williams (24) died from a self-inflicted gunshot after armed civilians confronted him, and they’re still not releasing a motive. Community & Safety: Loved ones and witnesses described victims’ lives and the fast actions of bystanders, while police urged the public to avoid misinformation as details continue to emerge. Regional Sports: The Pac-12 and Mountain West finalized a settlement ending their “poaching” and exit-fee litigation, clearing the way for Boise State, Utah State, Colorado State, and others to move forward. Idaho Transportation: ITD announced executive leadership changes, including new chief deputy and chief of administration roles. Local Business: Boise’s Goody’s Soda Fountain and Candy Store marked 30 years in the North End with a weekend celebration.

Idaho Murders: Kaylee Goncalves’ parents, Steve and Kristi, are sharing more of what happened after her death in Netflix’s new “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare,” while her youngest sister, Aubrie, speaks out about keeping her sisters’ memories alive as Bryan Kohberger seeks to withdraw his guilty plea. Twin Falls Shooting: A private citizen, Jordan Salinas, says he saw the gunman aiming at vehicles before confronting him, and police credit the exchange with preventing more deaths as the suspect died by suicide. Local Government: Eagle’s Planning and Zoning Commission sent a proposed fire training and public works facility near the Bike Park back to city staff for changes after public comment. Public Safety & Fire: In the Spokane-area wildfires, a 37-year-old man was arrested and charged with arson tied to the Old Trails Fire. Business & Tech: NewNormal Security launched NewScan, a free local penetration-testing scanner, and NuCube Energy filed a draft SEC registration statement for a proposed merger. Consumer Alert: Bettergoods pistachio nut butter sold at Walmart in Idaho is recalled over possible salmonella contamination.

Twin Falls In-N-Out shooting: Police say 24-year-old Chad Williams acted alone and died by self-inflicted gunshot after killing three and injuring seven at the newly opened restaurant; victims identified online include 23-year-old Ashley Garibay of Stockton, and officials are still working to determine motive while urging the public to stop spreading misinformation. Community response: Caldwell sent officers and firefighters to help Twin Falls and wildfire scenes, and Twin Falls police thanked partner agencies for added patrols as the FBI continues its investigation. Wildfire pressure in the region: Spokane-area fires have destroyed 700+ structures and driven tens of thousands from homes, with evacuations still expanding and air quality worsening. Food safety alert: Walmart shoppers in Idaho are among those affected by a recall of Botticelli Foods’ bettergoods pistachio nut butter due to possible salmonella contamination. Idaho human-interest: An Idaho Falls woman and her Down syndrome uncle went viral with disability-awareness videos, drawing millions of views and spreading positivity.

Twin Falls In-N-Out Shooting: Police say the suspect, 24-year-old Chad Williams, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after killing 3 and injuring 7; investigators believe he acted alone, and an off-duty state trooper plus an armed citizen returned fire to help stop the attack. Idaho Nuclear Push: A new nuclear waste and microreactor conversation is heating up nationally, with states seeking help on cleanup and Idaho-linked work continuing as Antares accelerates factory-built military microreactors after testing at Idaho National Laboratory. Local Safety & Resilience: A volunteer cybersecurity effort is pairing experts with rural water utilities to better defend small systems from attacks. Consumer/Health Watch: The FDA’s handling of kratom is again under scrutiny after reports tied the drug to deaths, while a separate legal story highlights how “filial support” laws can force families to pay nursing home bills even without signing contracts. Boise Community: Boise’s week ahead includes National Night Out and fall activity registration, plus more local events.

Twin Falls In-N-Out Shooting: Police say 24-year-old Chad Williams died from a self-inflicted gunshot after killing 3 and injuring 7 at the newly opened restaurant; investigators believe he acted alone, and an off-duty trooper plus an armed citizen returned fire and helped prevent more casualties. Misinformation Warning: Officials urged residents to stop sharing unverified claims online, including false shooter identifications, as families and victims’ supporters ask for patience. Local Fallout: Idaho leaders offered condolences, and a survivor’s family urged the public to avoid rumors while Terry Dudley remains hospitalized after being shot near Tesla chargers. Idaho Weather: A cold front briefly cools temperatures, but warmer conditions and heightened fire-weather risk are expected again midweek. Housing Reform: July housing changes aim to tackle Idaho’s estimated shortage of about 55,000 homes, with federal and state moves focused on reducing regulatory barriers and boosting workforce for construction.

Twin Falls Shooting: A gunman opened fire at a newly opened In-N-Out Burger on Blue Lakes Boulevard, killing three people and injuring seven others, some critically. Police say the suspected shooter was found dead near the scene and that there’s no ongoing threat, while investigators work to confirm identities and motive. Wildfire Watch: Near Weiser, evacuation orders expanded and parts of U.S. 95 were closed as a lightning-sparked wildfire surged, with officials urging residents to follow evacuation guidance and avoid unnecessary calls. Northern Lights: NOAA is forecasting aurora chances for northern-tier states as a geomagnetic storm may bring displays Sunday into Monday. Federal Land Policy: The Bureau of Land Management proposed major changes to grazing rules on public lands, including who can participate in management decisions. Idaho Courts: Bryan Kohberger asked an Idaho court to withdraw his guilty plea in the University of Idaho murders, arguing his lawyers pushed him to plead to avoid the death penalty.

Twin Falls Shooting: A gunman opened fire at a newly opened In-N-Out Burger on Blue Lakes Boulevard North, killing multiple people and injuring others; Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks said the suspected shooter is dead and the threat is over, while officials work to confirm the death toll, identify victims, and determine motive. Public Safety Response: Authorities shut down nearby roads and even the Perrine Bridge area, issued shelter-in-place orders, and interviewed hundreds of witnesses as injured people were taken to St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center. Idaho Politics Watch: With Democrat David Roth stepping aside, Idaho’s U.S. Senate race is set for a head-to-head between GOP Sen. Jim Risch and independent Todd Achilles, and analysts say Washington’s 5th District results could offer clues for how the matchup may play out. Wildfire Brief: In Rathdrum, Kootenai County issued Level 1 “GET READY” evacuations for the Hidden Valley Fire area near Hidden Valley Road and Songbird Lane.

Heat & Fire Weather: A blistering heat dome is pushing record temperatures across the western U.S., with extreme heat warnings in parts of the Southwest and Utah. Northern Lights: NOAA says up to 10 states could see the aurora this weekend, with the best odds in northern Idaho and nearby regions. Idaho Murders Legal Fight: Netflix’s “The Idaho Murders” is reigniting debate as Bryan Kohberger seeks to withdraw his guilty plea, while new claims about his motive and mindset continue to circulate. Public Safety—Wildfire: The Big Rock Fire near Heise has triggered mandatory evacuations and road closures as crews race to contain fast-moving flames. Food Safety: Maple Leaf Foods is recalling imported not-ready-to-eat bacon distributed in Idaho, and a separate public health alert warns of Costco steak burritos with an undeclared egg allergen. Local Spotlight: Idaho State University geosciences professor Glenn Thackray has been sworn in as president of the Geological Society of America.

Idaho Politics: With no Democrat on the ballot, David Roth has exited the U.S. Senate race, setting up a likely showdown between Sen. Jim Risch and independent Todd Achilles. Courts & Sports: A federal judge granted a preliminary injunction giving Class of 2022 college athletes an extra year of eligibility, and Mark Mitchell immediately entered the transfer portal. Local Education: Lake Pend Oreille School District plans to move its alternative high school into portable classrooms, sparking concerns from alumni and parents about support and bullying risks. Wildfire & Public Safety: Evacuations are underway for the Big Rock Fire east of Ririe, with road closures and crews requesting air support. Health: West Nile virus has been found in southern Idaho mosquitoes, and officials urge bite prevention. Consumer Watch: Maple Leaf Foods recalled about 12,036 pounds of not-ready-to-eat bacon imported from Canada without reinspection. Boise Area: A new 43rd St pedestrian crossing on Chinden Blvd is now operational after weather delays. Idaho Economy/Infrastructure: Idaho Transparency Month is underway, with the state controller promoting easier access to public spending and meetings.

Idaho Courts & Justice: Bryan Kohberger’s bid to withdraw his guilty plea in the University of Idaho murders case is back in the spotlight, with Netflix’s “The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare” renewing public attention on the case and the question of what comes next in court. Public Safety & Health: Idaho health officials report the first heat-related deaths of 2026, with three people over 55 dying after temperatures topped 90 degrees—an urgent reminder to watch for heatstroke and heat exhaustion. Local Life & Community: A Treasure Valley “Feel Good Friday” story highlights a man who makes a weekly “garbage route,” returning bins and quietly helping neighbors. Weather & Travel: Northern Lights forecasts say aurora could be visible in parts of Idaho and other northern states this weekend, while wildfire smoke and heat remain concerns for the region. Idaho Economy & Policy: Idaho is listed as a potential host for a new federal “nuclear lifecycle innovation campus,” tied to the broader push to site nuclear waste and expand nuclear-related work in the state.

Nuclear & National Security: Idaho National Laboratory marked a milestone with a modular pilot plant to process antimony ore for a more secure domestic supply chain, aiming to support military-grade production. Local Health Care: Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center’s Burn & Reconstructive Center earned American Burn Association verification, placing it among the nation’s top verified burn centers. Critical Materials & Jobs: The U.S. Department of Energy selected Idaho as a potential host for new nuclear fuel-cycle innovation campuses, alongside Utah, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Louisiana. Politics & Courts: Pocatello’s Lex Developments filed a reconsideration request over a denied conditional use permit for a large-scale AI data center, arguing due process problems in the city’s hearing. Public Safety & Privacy: Flock surveillance cameras are facing renewed backlash, including reports of targeted opposition and contract cancellations across multiple states, with Idaho communities in the spotlight. Heat & Health: Idaho reported its first heat-related deaths of 2026, urging residents to watch for heat illness as temperatures and wildfire smoke strain conditions. Community & Sports: Boise State’s North End Zone nears completion ahead of Banana Ball games in Boise, while Idaho’s youth baseball scene keeps rolling with Kennewick American’s 12U team heading to the Cal Ripken World Series.

Idaho Opportunity Zones: Idaho’s Economic Advisory Council has submitted 25 recommended areas for the revamped federal Opportunity Zone program, with Boise’s downtown and Main Street areas leading the top picks; Gov. Brad Little will make the final call, due to the U.S. Treasury by Sept. 28. Treasure Valley ACA update: A new KFF look at ACA Marketplace “effectuated” enrollment shows 19.2 million people kept coverage in 2026, down from 21.8 million in 2025—about 2.6 million fewer—highlighting the real hit from subsidy changes. Nuclear push with Idaho in the mix: The DOE’s Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campuses program is moving forward with memorandums of understanding signed by Louisiana, Utah, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Idaho, exploring sites for the nuclear fuel cycle. Boise surveillance debate: Flock Safety cameras have faced growing backlash nationwide, including a reported Idaho incident where a camera was rammed, as cities weigh deactivating or canceling contracts. Local back-to-school health: Lice Clinics of America is back in the Treasure Valley, offering its AirAllé head lice treatment and prevention services ahead of the school season.

Idaho Politics: Democrat David Roth is withdrawing from the Idaho U.S. Senate race, clearing the way for independent Todd Achilles to face GOP Sen. Jim Risch. Wildfire & Weather: East Idaho is dealing with severe thunderstorms and damaging winds/hail, while the region remains under fire-weather watch as smoke lingers into early August. Public Safety Tech: Coeur d’Alene is cracking down on “e-bikes” without pedals, issuing warnings and $100–$150 tickets; meanwhile, Flock license-plate camera use continues to spark privacy controversy in east Idaho. Local Communities: Aid for Friends in Pocatello renamed its building in honor of longtime leader BJ Stensland; a Rigby family hosted a blood drive amid a national blood crisis. Boise State & Sports: Boise State’s nearly finished North End Zone is set to open for fall camp and year-round community events. Idaho Sports: Thomas Ford Jr. kicked off Idaho Vandals fall camp with a message: energy must stay high.

Nuclear Energy Push: Idaho was named a finalist for the DOE’s Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus, joining Utah, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Louisiana, with Idaho officials touting potential high-paying jobs and expanded nuclear fuel-cycle investment. Wildfire Smoke & Heat: A heat dome is driving extreme temperatures and wildfire risk across the West and Midwest, and Idaho air quality has been hit hard, with officials urging residents to limit smoke exposure and use trusted air-quality tools. Idaho Murders Legal Fight: Bryan Kohberger’s latest bid to withdraw his guilty plea has sparked fresh anger from victims’ families, as the Netflix docuseries “Idaho Murders: College Nightmare” continues to draw attention to the case. Public Safety on Teton Pass: A new call for stronger safeguards on Teton Pass follows a deadly head-on crash, with advocates pushing for year-round commercial vehicle inspection and weighing. Local Community Updates: Ketchum is rolling out its restarted police department with a National Night Out meet-and-greet and branding reveal, and the Sun Valley visitor center building was added to Ketchum’s historic list.

Idaho Murders Legal Fight: Bryan Kohberger is trying to withdraw his guilty plea in the University of Idaho killings, arguing coercion and ineffective counsel, while a defense-linked forensic expert questions hair evidence tied to the victims’ home. U.S. Senate Politics: Idaho Democrat David Roth ended his Senate campaign, setting up a Risch vs. Todd Achilles showdown. Education Leadership: Marsh Valley School District named a new interim superintendent, Paul Sweat, aiming to boost student achievement and support teachers. Nuclear Energy Push: Idaho is among states in talks for DOE “nuclear lifecycle innovation” campuses, with possible roles spanning fuel work and waste storage. Public Safety & Health: Medicaid work requirements start next year for tens of thousands of Idahoans; West Nile virus was detected in Ada County mosquitoes and near Twin Falls. Local Governance: Twin Falls residents pressed back on Flock license-plate cameras, with the mayor saying the contract could be modified or ended. Wildfire & Weather: Lightning-driven wildfires and smoke continue across the Northwest, while a flash-flood emergency was issued in Colorado.