Public Safety · Sonora, CA
A vegetation fire reported at approximately 1:10 p.m. Sunday near Wigwam Road and Golf Links Road, north of Highway 108 between Sonora and Jamestown, prompted temporary evacuation orders for Twin Pines Mobile Home Park and warnings for nearby residents on Gold Links Road, Mountain Vista Court, and McKibbon Road. Cal Fire Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit deployed a helicopter, two tanker planes, 11 engine crews, and other resources; the fire burned 2.53 acres of vegetation only before being declared contained at 5:49 p.m. No injuries or property damage were reported, and all evacuation warnings were rescinded before 5 p.m. The cause remained under investigation as of Monday. A similar blaze called the Links Fire burned in the same area in July 2024.
Crime · Sonora, CA
Sonora police responded around 9 p.m. Friday to a report that an unknown man entered a residence on Ash Street through a window and cut a woman in the chest with a knife before fleeing. A man initially arrested and booked into Tuolumne County Jail was released after further investigation, with Police Chief Turu VanderWiel stating he is no longer considered a suspect. Officers described the suspect as a white male in his 30s wearing a red long-sleeved shirt or hoodie with writing and denim jeans. The department says there is no threat to the general public and believes the incident was isolated, but continues to seek information from anyone who may have relevant details.
Local Politics · Sonora, CA
Operating Engineers Local No. 3, representing more than 200 Tuolumne County government workers, plans two informational pickets next week amid ongoing contract negotiations with the county. The first is set for 5 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 19, along Washington Street near Courthouse Square in downtown Sonora; the second runs 8 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, outside the County Administration Center at 2 S. Green St., ahead of the Board of Supervisors' 9 a.m. meeting. Workers cite stagnant wages, rising health-insurance costs, proposed benefit changes, and staffing shortages affecting county services. A county workforce report showed 14.9% of nonelected positions vacant, with HR Director Karen McGettigan stating most positions pay 15% to 30% below market rates. The union confirmed the pickets will not involve a strike or work stoppage, and county services are expected to continue as normal.
