Good morning, Bakersfield.

After Fourth of July fireworks, Bakersfield animal shelters reported a surge in lost dogs, and 40 dogs were euthanized at the Bakersfield Animal Care Center last week to create space—Kern County Animal Services will waive redemption fees for pet owners until July 12.

The action comes as families search for pets that fled during the celebrations.

A police escort and community motorcade from Porterville passed through Bakersfield Monday morning as family, friends, and local veteran advocates accompanied the remains of a fallen U.S. Navy sailor—honoring his service and legacy.

The respectful homecoming united local volunteers in a fitting tribute.

On Sunday, July 6 at 7:23 p.m., CHP responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 65 north of Minneola Avenue when a 55-year-old driver in a Toyota Sienna attempted to pass a truck and veered into oncoming traffic—ejecting a passenger who died as the driver and others were injured and lanes were closed for four hours.

An Arvin man pleaded no contest to sexually assaulting a neighbor’s dog and trespassing and received 15 days in jail plus one year of probation (he must avoid the neighbor’s home and cannot own dogs) (police began the case on Dec.

4 after watching surveillance video).

On July 2, 2025, the California Board of Parole Hearings denied parole to Anthony Cuadras—a convicted sex offender with a long criminal record including a violent riot in 2021—stating he poses a current risk to public safety.

Daniel Landeros, a local activist, was fatally shot at Yokuts Park on September 13 while with a friend, and his sister Lisa Cruz said she believes his murder—allegedly involving 27-year-old Fredi Rivera who shouted homophobic slurs—was planned.

Bakersfield police are asking the community for help in finding 17-year-old Michael Scott Morson, last seen on July 6 at 4:50 p.m. in the 1600 block of Platea Street in the Tyler Ranch community and urging anyone with information to call (661) 327-7111.

The Bakersfield City School District Board of Education named Dr. Karling Aguilera-Fort Interim Superintendent during a July 7 special meeting and he will begin on July 15 while the board searches for a permanent replacement.

He previously served as Deputy Superintendent at San Francisco Unified School District and has focused on equity and social justice—bringing decades of education experience to his new role.

California’s largest wildfire of 2025, the Madre Fire, burned over 80,400 acres in San Luis Obispo County as of Monday—30% contained—and firefighters built containment lines to protect Highway 166.

Crews also worked near Los Padres National Forest to strengthen barriers and control the blaze.

Kern County has filed 822 felony cases in six months under Prop 36 — a law that turns repeat theft and drug charges into felonies.

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer said law enforcement is seeing fewer thefts and more push for treatment, although some defendants missed their drug court dates.

Soccer Camp in Bakersfield

8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Kaiser Permanente Sports Village Soccer Complex — Registration required — Enhance skills with Real Madrid Foundation coaches in a fun and inclusive environment.

Tribute to Café Tacvba by La Chilanga Band

7 PM — Rock & Wings — Tickets available — Experience a vibrant fusion of Latino and pop music with La Chilanga Band.

Bakersfield Train Robbers vs. Monterey Amberjacks

6:30-8 p.m. — Sam Lynn Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Watch the excitement as the local Train Robbers take on the Amberjacks in a thrilling baseball showdown.

Bakersfield Train Robbers vs. Monterey Amberjacks

6:30-8 p.m. — Sam Lynn Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of a live baseball game featuring the local Train Robbers and the Amberjacks.

Millionaires Concert

9:00 – 10:30 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Tickets starting at $24.12 — Dance the night away with Millionaires and Blade Trip rocking the stage!

Back To Black - Amy Winehouse Tribute

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Temblor Brewing Company — Tickets from $21.03 — Celebrate the music of Amy Winehouse with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere.

Nurse-Family Partnership Graduation Ceremony

3:00-5:30 p.m. — Richard Prado Center — Free entry — Celebrate the achievements of graduating Nurse-Family Partnership students and their families in a special ceremony.

Jake Gill Live Performance

11 PM - 4 AM — Krush Bar and Restaurant — Tickets available — Experience a night of country music with the talented Jake Gill, a finalist from NBC’s “The Voice.”

Sensory Friendly Family Swim Day for Autism Families

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — McMurtrey Aquatic Center — Registration required — Enjoy a sensory-friendly swim experience for families with autistic children.