Bay Point homicide under investigation, Sheriff seeks 35-year-old suspect

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Avery Alexander Gibbs is wanted for the Bay Point homicide on Friday, July 3, 2026. Photo: CCC Sheriff

Transient Avery Alexander Gibbs shot “several individuals”, “should not be approached”; has history of arrests

By Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office

This morning, Friday, July 3, 2026, at about 1:30, Muir Station deputy sheriffs were dispatched to an unknown problem on Olivia Lane in Bay Point. The call was later reported to be ‘shots fired.’

While enroute to the location, deputies were flagged down by several individuals who were injured at the location.

Deputies arrived at the scene and located an unresponsive person who was later transported to a local hospital. The victim was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. He is not being identified pending next of kin notification. One other person was transported to the hospital.

Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit and Crime Lab personnel responded to the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

Detectives have identified the suspect as 35-year-old Avery Alexander Gibbs, a transient. Gibbs should not be approached and anyone seeing him should call 9-1-1.

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact the Investigation Division at (925) 313-2600 or through Sheriff’s Office dispatch at (925) 646-2441. For any tips, email: tips@so.cccounty.us or call (866) 846-3592 to leave an anonymous voice message.

According to localcrimenews.com, Gibbs is Black, from San Pablo and has a history of arrests dating back to at least 2016. He was arrested by multiple agencies for crimes including human trafficking of a victim under 18, derive income from earnings or proceeds of a minor prostitute, pandering: other of a person 16+ and threats of violence.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Rodeo to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day with 4th of July Family 5K Fun Run, more

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Cash awards for winners!

Enjoy live music, dance performances, food and vendor booths

By Hercules-Rodeo-Crockett Rotary Club

It all started in 2021. The Hercules-Rodeo-Crockett Rotary (HRC) Club is reforming. Many members have moved on or retired, and there were less than 10 of us. But with commitment to community service and enthusiasm of our high school students, the first 4th of July Family 5k Fun Run happened. Six years later, we continue the tradition. Please join the fun that includes live music, dance performances, and local food and vendor booths.

Celebrate the 250th year anniversary of our republic at The Waterfront, 13 Pacific Avenue near the Four Fools Winery in Rodeo!

Our 4th of July tradition! The Rodeo Hercules Dynamite 4th of July 5K Run/Walk along the San Francisco Bay Trail!

Race Details

Once again, our race is REVERSED this year! It will start July 4th at 9am. We will run/jog/walk the Northern portion of the San Francisco Bay Trail from Parker Avenue in Rodeo to The Exchange in Hercules and back.

The event will be a chip timed 5K run/walk limited to 250 entrants. Early bird registration is $50 up to 8:30 AM July 4th. Kids 5 and under are FREE!

Race Packet (bib/shirt) pick-up at event from 7:30am-8:30am

Races start 9:00-11:00am

Cash awards around 11:30am – $100, $75 and $50 for top three finishers, male/female.

Rodeo Hercules 2026 4th of July 5K Race route. Source: Hercules/Rodeo/Crockett Rotary Club

For more information visit Hercules/Rodeo/Crockett Rotary Club.

Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day at “Freedom Over Crockett” with fireworks and more

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Honoring America’s Independence • California Heritage • Community Pride

Includes historical walk, live big band music, car show, food and family friendly fun

By Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society & Crockett Museum

Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in the historic waterfront town of Crockett — a full day of live music, local history, patriotic spirit, community gathering, food, family fun, and hometown pride along the beautiful Carquinez Strait.

This exciting community celebration combines history, entertainment, and small-town Americana into one incredible event designed for residents, visitors, families, and history lovers of all ages.

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A HISTORIC YEAR OF CELEBRATION

This year’s celebration proudly commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition, one of the most significant historic journeys in California history.

On July 4, 1776 — the exact same day the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia — the Anza Expedition reached its final destination in what would later become San Francisco.

Along their historic journey through California, the expedition passed directly through Crockett, forever connecting our town to one of the most important migrations and exploration routes in the state’s history.

This Fourth of July, the community will honor that incredible legacy by inviting guests to literally walk in the footsteps of history during a guided historical walk experience through Crockett.

The celebration also honors another important milestone in Crockett history — the legacy of the iconic C&H Sugar refinery.

Officially beginning operations in 1906, the refinery now celebrates nearly 120 years of industrial and community history in Crockett.

Today, the refinery continues producing approximately 14% of the nation’s cane sugar, making it one of the most historically important and recognizable landmarks in California industry.

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EVENT INFORMATION

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Event Location: Rithet Park – intersection of Rolph & Loring Avenues, Crockett

FREE ADMISSION

ALL AGES WELCOME

FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY EVENT

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POWERFUL HISTORICAL WALK ON THE ANZA EXPEDITION TRAIL

Walk in the Footsteps of History

Step back in time and experience a living piece of California history right here in Crockett.

Led by Madeline of Hatch Services, this immersive guided historical walk will bring the past to life through engaging storytelling, local historical insight, and a meaningful community experience along the trail route connected to the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition.

Historical Walk Activities Begin at 11:00 AM

Guests will gather at Scouts Hall for refreshments and snacks before beginning the historic walking experience.

Participants will walk to and from the bridge while hearing fascinating stories and historical information about:
• The Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition

The settlement and exploration of early California
Crockett’s industrial and waterfront heritage
The development of the Carquinez Strait region
The history and legacy of the C&H Sugar refinery
Historic migration routes and local landmarks

The importance of Crockett in California history

This powerful historical experience is designed to educate, inspire, and connect the community through storytelling, patriotism, and cultural heritage.

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LIVE BIG BAND MUSIC

Following the historical walk, guests will return to Rithet Park for an exciting afternoon of live music and celebration featuring:

Steve Snyder’s Big Band
LIVE from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Enjoy a vibrant Independence Day soundtrack featuring:
Classic Big Band Favorites
Patriotic American Standards
Timeless Jazz Classics
Swing & Dance Favorites
Community Celebration Music

Bring your lawn chairs, relax with family and friends, and enjoy an authentic hometown Fourth of July atmosphere filled with live entertainment and community spirit.

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FOOD • CARS • FAMILY FUN • COMMUNITY

The celebration will feature an exciting lineup of activities and attractions throughout the day including:

Delicious Food Trucks & Local Favorites
Community Car Show Featuring Classic & Specialty Vehicles
Pie Eating Contest – $150 GRAND PRIZE for the Pie Eating Contest Winner-sign up @ crockettchamber@aol.com
Tons of Family-Friendly Activities & Festivities, Bocce court
Beautiful Waterfront & Carquinez Strait Views
Great Photo Opportunities Throughout the Event
Patriotic Community Gathering Areas

Visitors are encouraged to spend the entire day enjoying the festivities, music, food, shopping, and community celebration.

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SHOP AROUND TOWN

Support local businesses during the celebration!

Shops and businesses throughout Crockett will be OPEN and offering SPECIALS during the event.

Guests are encouraged to explore Crockett’s charming downtown businesses, restaurants, local shops, and historic areas while enjoying the Fourth of July festivities.

This celebration is designed not only to honor history and community spirit, but also to help support local businesses and encourage visitors to experience everything Crockett has to offer.

Stop by the Historical Society & Crockett Museum to join in on a time capsule, bring an item and to view the C&H exhibit.

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IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION

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NO ALCOHOL WILL BE SERVED AT THIS EVENT

Guests are encouraged to BRING THEIR OWN COOLERS with beverages and refreshments.

Please BRING YOUR OWN LAWN CHAIRS and picnic seating for comfort during the live music performances and festivities.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for those participating in the historical walk experience.

Sunscreen, hats, and bottled water are also encouraged for daytime activities.

This is a FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY, ALL-AGES EVENT welcoming residents and visitors from throughout Contra Costa County, the East Bay and beyond.

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A TRUE HOMETOWN AMERICA CELEBRATION

“Freedom Over Crockett” continues the proud tradition of bringing the community together through music, history, patriotism, local culture, and hometown pride.

Historically supported by the Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society and Crockett Museum, this annual celebration reflects the heart and spirit of Crockett while honoring:

America’s enduring spirit of freedom
The 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition
California’s rich historical and cultural heritage
Crockett’s industrial and waterfront legacy
Community traditions, live music, and family celebration
Community unity, local pride, and historical preservation

Whether you are a long-time resident, a returning visitor or experiencing Crockett for the very first time, this unforgettable Fourth of July celebration promises a full day of history, entertainment, family fun, music, food, and patriotic spirit in one of the East Bay’s most unique and historic waterfront communities.

Celebrate Freedom • Celebrate History • Celebrate Crockett

We would like to also thank our Sponsors Phillips 66 and C&H Sugar, celebrating 120 years making sugar in Crockett.

City of Martinez to conduct virtual wildfire evacuation drill July 11

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By Eve Kearney, Martinez City Manager’s Office

The City of Martinez is continuing to take proactive steps to enhance community safety by hosting a virtual evacuation drill, on July 11, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. This exercise will simulate the evacuation and response to a wildfire emergency.

A virtual evacuation drill is an ideal opportunity for residents to review and practice their personal and family safety plan in the event of an evacuation and ensure they are registered to receive emergency alerts.
The emergency scenario for the Unified Command exercise will be a wildland fire burning into the urban interface on the west edge of the City, north of SR-4. The virtual evacuation and emergency scenario will focus on five evacuation zones: MAR-001, MAR-002, and MAR-003. These zones were chosen due to actual wildfire risk and wildland-urban interface (WUI).

What to Expect During the Drill

The drill will begin at 9:00 am. Live mock messages will be sent to all registered Martinez Alerts users. Messages will be clearly marked as drill-related. Residents in the three evacuation zones will receive additional messages during the drill.

There are up to three ways residents can participate in the Virtual Evacuation Drill.

Ensure expected mock messaging from Martinez Alerts is received.
Residents may practice preparing to evacuate from their residence, including a list of suggestions on our website.
Residents may safely leave their residence and use their identified evacuation route.

The Importance of Evacuation Drills

The City as a whole benefits from this drill, extending beyond the target neighborhoods. It serves as an instructive example for emergency response across the entire City and offers an educational and preparation opportunity for all residents. Additionally, Martinez’s first responders will use this

Drill to conduct a Unified Command exercise, practicing multi‑agency coordination as well as response and management of an emergency scenario.

For more information, visit the evacuation drill webpage at cityofmartinez.org/july11.

For day-of messaging options during the exercise, please sign up for the Martinez Alerts e-notification system at www.martinezalerts.com.

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Photo: NHTSA

By CHP – Golden Gate Division

Every year, thousands of vehicles are stolen across California. July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motor vehicle was stolen every 48 seconds in the United States in 2025.

Use common sense when parking and exiting your vehicle:

Take your vehicle’s key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
Park in well-lit areas if possible.
Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.

Thieves want vehicle parts and valuable items, too.

Radios and wheel covers aren’t the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren’t. Some of the most popular items stolen from vehicles include air bags, GPS units, cell phones, iPads, laptops, and purses. Parts like doors, engines and transmissions are stripped and sold.

While thefts declined last year, prevention starts with simple habits:

Keep valuables out of sight.
Lock your doors and roll up all windows.
Park in well-lit, visible areas.
Install a GPS tracker or recovery system
Use anti-theft tools
(steering wheel locks, alarms)
Always turn off your car and take your keys.

NEVER leave it running unattended.

A few seconds of prevention can save you the time, expense, and frustration of having your vehicle stolen.

Help protect your vehicle and don’t make it an easy target.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Merced man arrested for attempted murder in 2025 Hercules shooting

July 3, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Daniel Avery Glass, Jr. was arrested on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Photo: Hercules PD

By Hercules Police Department

The Hercules Police Department has made an arrest in connection with an August 2025 shooting that endangered a local resident. On August 2, 2025, a man sitting in his parked vehicle near Bayfront Blvd. and Earnest Street was allegedly approached on foot by an armed suspect who concealed his face and opened fire, striking the victim’s vehicle as he fled.

Through the diligent work of our Criminal Investigations Division — including Flock ALPR data, cellular records, surveillance video, and ballistic testing — detectives identified 32-year-old Daniel Avery Glass, Jr. as the primary suspect. On July 1, 2026, Glass was arrested on an attempted murder warrant with bail set at $1.4 million. The case has been forwarded to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

HPD is fully committed to solving crimes and holding accountable those who threaten our community. We extend our sincere gratitude to California Department of Corrections Parole, the FBI, and our neighboring agencies for their invaluable assistance.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the six-foot, three-inch tall, 215-pound Glass was born on Aug. 13, 1993, has a bail amount of $140,000 but his being held in the West County Detention Facility on no bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, July 6 at 8:30 am in Martinez Superior Court.

According to localcrimenews.com, Glass is Black, from Merced and was previously arrested on Feb. 13th by Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Deputies for giving false information to a peace officer and felony parole violation, and in 2014 by Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputies for burglary and drug possession.

Public safety is a shared responsibility. If you see something, say something — report suspicious activity to HPD, or call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips are welcome. Stay alert when parking in dark or rural areas. Whenever possible, park in well-lit locations, keep your doors locked, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Walnut Creek to celebrate America’s 250th, California’s 175th with patriotic concert July 4th

July 2, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By City of Walnut Creek

Spend Independence Day with the Walnut Creek Concert Band!

Join the Walnut Creek Concert Band at Civic Park on Saturday, July 4, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a free evening of patriotic music as we celebrate Independence Day.

This year’s concert is also a wonderful way to commemorate two historic milestones: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 175th anniversary of California.

Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended. Bring your family, pack a picnic and enjoy this beloved community tradition before the evening’s festivities.

Travis Credit Union awards over $40,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors

July 2, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Including 7 Contra Costa recipients

By Kristin Schaeffer, Piccadilly

VACAVILLE, Calif. — Travis Credit Union (TCU) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Community Impact Scholarship. In recognition of their academic achievements and dedication to community service, 20 Northern California graduating high school seniors, with seven in Contra Costa County, will receive a $2,000 scholarship to support their college education.

The TCU Community Impact Scholarship program has awarded more than $677,000 to over 400 students since it was established 22 years ago, reinforcing the credit union’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders through education and civic engagement.

“We are proud to support these outstanding students as they embark on their next chapter,” said Kevin Miller, president and CEO of Travis Credit Union. “Their hard work, resilience and passion for giving back to their communities truly embody the spirit of Travis Credit Union’s Community Impact Scholarship.”

The 2026 winners are:

Contra Costa County

Preet Singh – Hercules High School

Gabrielle Love – Ygnacio Valley High School – Concord

Mia Garcia Arce – Concord High School

Mary Sakshita Reddy Yeruva – California High School – San Ramon

Lola Abdugapparov – Middle College High School – San Pablo

Javier Gutierrez – El Cerrito High School

Saira Trehan – Monte Vista High School – Danville

Solano County

Jamison Abrenica – Dixon High School

Taylor Connelley – Buckingham Collegiate Charter Academy

Anika Jadhav – Benicia High School

Daniel Gonzalez – Fairfield High School

Mary Alyssa Glaiza Nuñez – Will C. Wood High School

Isabella McNelis – Vacaville High School

Jadyn Voorwinden – Vanden High School

Emily Sanchez – Armijo High School

Napa County

Hunter Knight – Napa High School

Yolo County

Aidan Rieger – Davis Senior High School

Mia Borges – Winters High School

Merced County

Colette Collins – El Capitan High School

Owen Reed – Atwater High School

The scholarship program is open to all high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who are credit union members and pursuing higher education. The money may be applied toward tuition, supplies or other costs associated with attending college. Each winner was required to submit a completed application, a certified high school transcript and a written or recorded personal statement describing their background, academic goals and post-college plans.

For more information about Travis Credit Union and its services, please visit www.traviscu.org.

About Travis Credit Union

Since 1951, Travis Credit Union focuses on improving the lives of our members. As a full-service financial institution, TCU helps members reach financial goals as their trusted local partner throughout their financial journey. Today, TCU is the 12th largest credit union in California, with 270,000 members and $5 billion in assets. We use financial strength to champion financial education and advocacy, earning recognition at the national, state and local levels. This includes being certified as a Great Place to Work in 2025 and 2026, being named one of Newsweek’s Best Regional Credit Unions in 2025, U.S. Air Force Distinguished Credit Union of the Year, and one of Forbes Best-in-State Credit Union.

Brentwood traffic stop leads to fraud, drug charges

July 2, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

Police seized items purchased through fraud, a crack pipe and drugs from the suspects’ vehicle. Photos: Brentwood PD

Three women from Bay Point, Pittsburg, Antioch arrested

By Brentwood Police Department

During a recent proactive patrol, Brentwood Police Day Shift officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle displaying expired registration. The front passenger was known by the officer to be on searchable probation for identity theft-related offenses.

During a probation search of the vehicle, which was determined to belong to the passenger, officers located suspected narcotics and narcotics paraphernalia. Several items in the trunk appeared to have been recently purchased from Home Depot, but the occupants were unable to produce a receipt or provide the credit that was used.

Two occupants were cited for narcotics-related violations and released at the scene.

The investigation did not end there. Officers followed up with Home Depot regarding the recently purchased merchandise and discovered the items had been obtained through fraudulent transactions. Officers later contacted the victim, who confirmed she had not authorized anyone to make purchases using her personal information.

As a result of the investigation, several felony charges related to identity theft and fraudulent purchases are being submitted to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for review.

According to Community Engagement Officer Chris Bollinger, who said, “I am not able to release names at this point but I can tell you the suspects age and location,” those arrested were a 47-year-old female from Bay Point, 31-year-old female from Pittsburg and a 28-year-old female from Antioch.

Great work by our Day Shift officers for their thorough investigation and commitment to protecting our community from fraud and identity theft.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa Superior Court resumes Juvenile Dependency Mediation Program

July 2, 2026 By Publisher Leave a Comment

By Matt J. Malone, PIO, Contra Costa County Superior Court

The Contra Costa County Superior Court is pleased to announce the return of its Juvenile Dependency Mediation Program effective July 1, 2026.

Dependency mediation is a confidential, voluntary process that offers families and other participants an opportunity to resolve issues outside of a contested court hearing. The program is facilitated by specially trained, neutral mediators who do not make decisions or determine case outcomes. Instead, mediators guide productive discussions, help participants identify areas of agreement, and support the development of informed, mutually acceptable resolutions that prioritize the safety, well-being, and best interests of the child while also considering the safety of all family members.

As a program of the Juvenile Court, dependency mediation provides a collaborative forum where parents, child welfare professionals, and other involved parties can openly discuss concerns, explore potential solutions, and work toward agreements. Any agreement reached through mediation is submitted to the judicial officer for review and approval. Once approved, the agreement becomes an enforceable court order.

By encouraging communication and cooperative problem-solving, dependency mediation helps reduce conflict, promotes meaningful participation by all parties, and often resolves matters more efficiently than a contested hearing. The process also minimizes the emotional impact of litigation on children and families by focusing on the family’s strengths and supporting long-term collaboration in addressing the child’s needs.

Click for more information about Juvenile Dependency | Superior Court of California | County of Contra Costa.

Notice: All Contra Costa County Superior Court locations will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of Independence Day. Regular court operations will resume on Monday, July 6, 2026.