Fielder Mountain Mop-Up Continues, 29% Containment
Crews working the 573 acre Fielder Mountain Fire focused on mop-up around the perimeter, while 300 feet of mop-up near homes have been reached. Containment is now at 29%. The Oregon Department of Forestry reports firefighters continued working along the fire's edge, working deeper into the blaze to strengthen the fireline. The constructed line in many areas of the fire is “cupped” to catch rolling debris and reduce the potential of burning material crossing the line. Firefighters remain alert for any fire outside the existing line. Felling of trees and snags is ongoing. Terrain and poor road access limited water delivery for mop-up activities. Firefighters are using water efficiently to extinguish burning material as they methodically grid the area adjacent to the line and have been using helicopters to fill portable tanks for hoselays. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office reports there is a Level 2: BE SET warning in effect for Zone JAC-052, as is a Level 1: BE READY warning for Zone ROR-053.
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GP Police Asking for Help in Assault Investigation-SUSPECT APPREHENDED
On August 14, 2026, at approximately 6:40 PM, Michael Cutts was arrested without incident, less than 24 hours after he was determined to be a person of interest in a major assault that left a victim hospitalized on August 13, 2026. The timeline for this arrest was shortened significantly thanks in large part to ALPR technology and strong partnerships with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon State Police. The Grants Pass Police Department would like to thank our law enforcement partners and all the community members who took an interest in this case.Michael Cutts was lodged at the Josephine County Jail on multiple charges, including Assault II, Burglary I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Contempt of Court.On August 13, 2026, shortly before 8:00 p.m., Grants Pass 911 received an emergency call reporting a major assault that occurred on Southridge Way in Grants Pass. A male victim was reported to be seriously injured and was transported to Three Rivers Community Hospital. Patrol officers and Major Crimes detectives from the Grants Pass Police Department responded to both the scene and the hospital.The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are attempting to contact Michael Brinen Cutts (40) for questioning.The Grants Pass Police Department is seeking assistance from community members who may have information regarding the whereabouts of Mr. Cutts. Please contact the Grants Pass Police Department and request to speak with a detective regarding case number 2026-00027750
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Commissioners Approve 93 Cent Jail Tax for November 3rd Election
A 93 cent five year local option tax for the county jail was passed along to voters this November by the Board of County Commissioners during the Wednesday night Business Session. The 93 cents would fund 185 beds initially and could support juvenile justice. The former local option tax guaranteed 14 beds for juvenile offenders. Commissioner Richardson asserted expanded costs have reached a level where the 93 cents would provide funds for the jail only. Likely about $3 million short which is what the juvenile beds would costs. The general fund will be able to support juvenile justice for a couple of years. Commissioner Martin asserted the Board would find a way to fund the Juvenile Justice System.
The resolution passed unanimously.
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