Bakersfield
Today
Wednesday, September 17th, 2025
Good morning, Bakersfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of September.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Late Monday night, a car crash on La Mirada Drive in central Bakersfield damaged two homes and caused minor to moderate injuries for four occupants as the driver fled—residents say this marks the third crash in the neighborhood amid concerns over insufficient signage and speeding vehicles. Bakersfield Now
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ California Resource Corporation announced today at 4:46 a.m. its plan to buy longtime Western Kern oil producer Berry Oil in a $717 million deal—this acquisition will add 20,000 barrels per day to CRC's production and combine Berry Oil's acreage from Utah and California to form a larger, more cost-efficient company. KUZZ
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Hundreds gathered at Dignity Health Amphitheater for a candlelight vigil to honor Charlie Kirk—fatally shot last week—and leaders urged an end to political violence during a motor parade from Rosedale Highway to River Walk Park. Bakersfield Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Old Dominion postponed its September 19 concert at Dignity Health Arena in Bakersfield due to drummer Whit Sellers’ severe back pain — the band will perform on December 11 with ERNEST and Redferrin as support acts. Fans are advised to keep their tickets as refunds can be obtained via AXS until October 19. Bakersfield Now
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Students from Mira Monte High School are showcasing summer projects at the Kern County Fair—exhibits range from welding creations to live animal projects that will be auctioned to build business skills in agriculture. Teacher Joshua McKenzie and seniors Aaron Oliveros and Mary Davis shared their challenges and pride in learning while Davis plans to study agriculture education and return to local farming. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Ayanna Tweedy has taken over as Interim Athletic Director at Bakersfield College, replacing Reggie Bolton. She aims to boost student success by improving academic support and sports programs—encouraging community engagement with free game admissions. 23ABC News
- ➤ The Kern High School District and the Blue Zone Project are partnering with students to host a healthy cooking competition at the Kern County Fair on Friday, September 19. Contestants will have 30 minutes to show that everyday meals can be made healthier without losing flavor—organizers say the event will spark more interest in culinary arts—while demonstrating how small changes can boost health. 23ABC News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ On July 26, 2024, US Forest Service crews faced a firestorm that quickly surrounded their work center near Havilah—firefighters worked hard to save the facility under dangerous conditions. More than 59,000 acres burned and 223 structures were destroyed while all crew members made it out safely. 23ABC News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Caltrans, together with Granite Construction, announced a full closure of Highway 166 at the California Aqueduct starting Monday, September 22, for 75 days—drivers should use detours via Highway 33, Taft Highway 119, and Interstate 5 and drive cautiously near construction sites. Bakersfield Now
- ➤ Kern County law now requires each massage parlor to secure an annual operating permit, and Bakersfield Police check unlicensed businesses for signs of illicit services—offenders face citations and referral to the district attorney. A licensed massage therapist explained that proper certification builds trust and ensures safe service. 23ABC News
- ➤ Caltrans announced that emergency power line repairs will force the daytime closure of Highway 178 through Kern Canyon from today through Friday—drivers should prepare for delays. The Bakersfield Californian
- ➤ A Bear Valley Springs gate worker and a Delano teacher were put on leave after posting on social media about Charlie Kirk’s death—sparking protests and a debate over workplace rules. 23ABC News
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
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