Local Politics · El Dorado County
El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf announced this week he will retire at year's end after a 36-year career, citing a state law change extending sheriffs' terms from four to six years as one factor. The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to discuss selecting his successor at its Oct. 20 meeting; Leikauf plans to recommend Undersheriff Eric Palmberg. Former Sheriff John D'Agostini, who endorsed Leikauf's campaign and plans to run again in 2028, publicly called for Leikauf's resignation and accused him of shifting priorities away from community service—claims Leikauf dismissed as "ridiculous" and "inciting." District Attorney Vern Pierson praised the department and congratulated Leikauf on his decades of service.
Crime · Sacramento, CA
Gurinder Gill was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of murder after burned human remains found in El Dorado County on Oct. 1 were identified as his missing wife, Jasmine Gill, who was last seen at her Sacramento residence on Sept. 30. Gurinder initially told detectives that ICE agents had detained his wife outside their home, but ICE confirmed no enforcement activity occurred there. Investigators noted inconsistencies in his statements and a pending divorce and child custody dispute between the couple. Two residences tied to Gurinder were searched upon arrest, and he is held without bail at Sacramento County Main Jail.
Public Safety · El Dorado County
A new wildfire named the Emigrant Fire was first discovered at 12:30 a.m. on Oct. 18, burning on private land in El Dorado County, California. As of publication, no containment progress had been reported and the cause remained undetermined. The information was sourced from the National Interagency Fire Center.
Public Safety · San Luis Obispo County
Nearly 86,000 PG&E customers across California remained without electricity Friday morning as wildfire-prevention shutoffs entered a third day, with 9,100 affected in San Luis Obispo County. PG&E estimated power would return by Saturday morning or noon in many Sierra Nevada foothill communities, though restoration depends on weather safety and equipment inspections. The utility activated its Emergency Operations Center in Vacaville as offshore winds and dry vegetation continued to pose wildfire risks through the weekend. Community resource centers offering Wi-Fi, charging stations, and supplies are available at pge.com/crc.
Public Safety · El Dorado County
The Rock Fire, first discovered at 2:40 p.m. on Oct. 1 in El Dorado County, California, has been burning for 16 days on federal land managed by the United States Forest Service. As of an Oct. 17 update, no containment information is available and the cause remains undetermined. The status report draws on data from the National Interagency Fire Center.
