Ada County Coroner identified the man found dead along the Boise River Greenbelt early Monday as 25-year-old Jordan Harbst; investigators say the case is active with no public details released yet.
Wastewater testing shows high rotavirus levels in the Boise area, signaling a contagious stomach flu that mainly endangers infants and young children. Common symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, and fever, with dehydration being a major risk that can require hospitalization. There is no specific antiviral treatment; most cases are managed with rest and fluids, though more serious cases may need hospital care. Vaccination is the best prevention, supplemented by thorough handwashing and routine surface disinfection to slow spread. Seek medical care for dehydration, persistent vomiting, high fever, or severe abdominal pain, and be aware of rare complications like intussusception that require urgent attention.
Alaska Airlines will launch three seasonal nonstop routes from Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport starting Nov. 1, linking Santa Rosa to Boise, Phoenix and Salt Lake City through mid‑April 2027. Phoenix flights will operate daily through April 21, 2027, while Boise and Salt Lake City will run daily during peak periods through April 19–21, 2027, with off‑peak schedules varying. The expansion reinforces Alaska’s long‑running presence at the airport and expands options for travelers in the North Bay.
Dirk Kempthorne, a Republican who led Boise as mayor, went on to serve as Idaho governor and later as U.S. Interior secretary under George W. Bush, dying at 74 in Boise after a colon cancer diagnosis; his tenure included the polar bear being listed as a threatened species in 2008.
Health officials warn of a possible measles exposure at Boise Airport after a traveler with the virus passed through on March 29; those who shared flights should watch for fever, runny nose, cough, red or watery eyes, or a rash and consult a healthcare provider about vaccination.
Fairly Reliable Bob’s, a Boise-based used car dealership with a 50-year history, is moving from its Main St. location to a new, larger facility near Eagle Rd. and Fairview Ave. in Meridian to expand its service department and showcase its Corvette collection, aiming for a mid-2023 move. The move is part of the company's growth strategy to better serve its customers and attract new ones, after years of searching for the right property.
Flu cases are rapidly increasing in the Boise area and southern Idaho, with the CDC reporting high activity levels and a predominance of influenza A. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination and preventive measures, as the flu season peaks and severe cases, including hospitalizations and a death, are reported. It is not too late to get vaccinated to reduce severity and prevent complications.
A woman on an Alaska Airlines flight from Portland to Dallas allegedly assaulted two flight attendants, leading to a diversion to Boise and her arrest. Tracy Barkhimer, 61, was restrained and charged with misdemeanor battery, and has been banned from flying with Alaska Airlines. The incident highlights ongoing issues of passenger violence on flights.
Spirit Airlines is discontinuing its Boise service on October 2 due to its ongoing bankruptcy, leaving Alaska and Southwest as the remaining carriers on the route, which will still serve 26 destinations with eight airlines in total.
Boise is closing its Manitou Park pickleball courts due to noise complaints from nearby residents, following a lawsuit and settlement related to noise pollution affecting residents' quality of life. The closure leaves local players frustrated, especially the elderly, who value the social and physical benefits of the sport. The city is reallocating courts to address these concerns, but players feel their needs are being overlooked.
The City of Boise has decided to shut down pickleball courts at Willow Lane and Manitou parks following a lawsuit from neighbors citing noise and offensive language, opting to convert these courts back to tennis courts to focus on community safety and quality of life.
A rabid bat found in downtown Boise has tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to advise residents to avoid handling bats, ensure pets are vaccinated, and bat-proof their homes. People who may have come into contact with the bat should consult a healthcare provider for potential rabies treatment.
Thousands of Idahoans participated in the national 'No Kings' protests in Boise and other cities, expressing opposition to President Trump and his administration amid broader political tensions, including recent acts of political violence and government budget cuts. The protests coincided with a costly military parade in D.C. and global demonstrations, highlighting widespread dissent and calls for cross-party cooperation.
The Department of Homeland Security listed Boise as a sanctuary city despite Idaho law banning them, leading to criticism from Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue, who argued the list lacked transparency and input from local authorities. The list was later removed, highlighting ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement and local government cooperation.
Norway rat populations have been increasing in Boise and Eagle since 2020, with local experts suggesting they are now a permanent presence. These rodents, known for rapid reproduction, pose health risks as they can carry diseases like Hantavirus. The City of Boise is addressing resident concerns by providing resources and encouraging preventive measures such as sealing home openings and removing outdoor food sources. Residents are advised to report sightings to Idaho Fish & Game and take precautions when dealing with potential infestations.