Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Kaiser Permanente Nor Cal hospitals recognized as “high performing” for treating complex medical conditions and procedures

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Graphics source: U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report’s annual study rates Kaiser hospitals among nation’s best for providing high-quality, specialized care

Antioch, Richmond ranked Best Regional Hospitals and among best in state

By Elissa Harrington, Senior Media Relations & Public Relations Representative, Kaiser Permanente Northern California

OAKLAND, CA – Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s hospitals are nationally recognized as “high performing” for treating complex medical conditions and procedures including congestive heart failure, pneumonia, and stroke.

U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Hospitals annual study rates Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals as among the top 30% of hospitals in the nation for at least one of the 37 measures evaluated.

Approximately 4,500 hospitals participated in the study, which analyzes performance in 14 specialty care areas and 23 procedures and conditions. The “high performing” designation honors those hospitals that deliver high-quality care when treating complex medical conditions, including congestive heart failure, pneumonia, colorectal cancer surgery, stroke, and diabetes.

Kaiser Permanente hospitals are consistently recognized as among the top hospitals in the nation for providing high-quality, safe patient care that leads to improved health outcomes.

“Kaiser Permanente continues to be a national leader in preventing disease, providing world-class treatment, and using evidence-based research to help our patients and members live longer and healthy lives,” said Mike Bowers, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region. “Our clinicians and staff are delivering exceptional care to our patients every day getting them the right care when they need it.”

Top hospitals in California

Eight Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals are designated by U.S. News & World Report as “Best Regional Hospitals” and are ranked among the best in the state: Antioch, Richmond, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Clara, Roseville and South Sacramento.

Three Kaiser Permanente hospitals are also ranked among the top 50 in the nation for providing high-quality specialty care:

  • San Francisco is ranked 34th for cardiology, heart and vascular surgery
  • Santa Clara is ranked 42nd for cardiology, heart and vascular surgery
  • Vallejo is ranked 45th for rehabilitation

Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa is also rated high-performing nationally for its geriatric care.

“Everything we do is centered around making sure our patients receive high-quality and high-value care,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, chief executive officer and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “This recognition underscores the strength of our integrated model and the dedication of our physicians, nurses, and care teams, who provide compassionate, evidence-based care for our members and patients every day.”

In its hospital analysis, U.S. News & World Report uses publicly available data such as volume, mortality rates, infection rates, staffing levels, and patient satisfaction rates, among other factors.

The annual ratings and rankings are designed to help patients make informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.9 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.

Pinole man sentenced to 50 years to life for 2024 murder of ex-girlfriend, mother of their son

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Brittany Elizabeth Ligdis in a photo posted on her Facebook page May 23, 2023, and Jeffrey Kendall’s arrest photo in 2024. Source: Pinole PD

By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office

Martinez, California — Today, a Contra Costa Superior Court judge sentenced a Pinole man to 50 years to life in prison for murdering a woman just 10 days after she ended their relationship.

On May 7, 2026, a jury found 39-year-old Jeffery Kendall guilty of first-degree murder in the killing of 30-year-old Brittany Elizabeth Ligdis on February 16, 2024. Jurors also convicted him of child endangerment for placing the couple’s young son in a situation that threatened his safety. Before trial, the defense successfully petitioned the court to try a separate charge — possession of an assault weapon — before a judge rather than a jury.

The homicide

A 911 call captured the murder as it unfolded on the morning of February 16th. The victim, Brittany Ligdis, told dispatchers that Jeffery Kendall had broken into her home and that she was hiding in the laundry room with her son. About 90 seconds into the call, Kendall entered the room. Brittany pleaded, “Let go of me” and “You’re scaring him,” before screaming, “Stop it.” Kendall then shot Brittany in the head. The couple’s four-year-old son cried “Momma” and fled the room; Kendall fled the scene shortly after. Responding officers found the victim dead of a gunshot wound to the head.

The case for a harsher sentence

Deputy District Attorney Tylyn Wells described the killing as “an execution in front of a 4-year-old child,” arguing it was not the product of “a mental break” but a familiar pattern in domestic violence cases: a threat that escalates once a victim decides to leave. Citing these factors, Wells asked the court to impose a sentencing enhancement, raising Kendall’s exposure to 50 years to life.

During the bench trial on the weapons charge, Judge Glenn Kim found Kendall guilty of possessing an assault weapon — a 3D-printed pistol capable of semi-automatic fire — and ruled that six aggravating sentencing factors tied to that charge were true.

The sentence

At today’s sentencing hearing, Judge Kim called the case “one of the most difficult” he has experienced. He imposed two consecutive terms of 25 years to life, totaling 50 years to life, and barred Kendall from contacting his son, with limited exceptions subject to court approval, until November 2035, when the boy turns 16.

Kendall remains in county jail awaiting transfer to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to begin serving his sentence.

Case No. 02-24-00229 | The People of the State of California v. Jeffrey Kendall

Live Music on the Corridor in Richmond July 25th

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By Richmond Art Center

Live Music on the Corridor is bringing the Richmond Arts Corridor to life with an afternoon of music, culture, and community.

Join us on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM–3:00 PM at the Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, for a free family-friendly celebration featuring acclaimed percussionist Carlitos Medrano and Sabor de mi Cub.

Presented by Richmond Renaissance, a project of Independent Arts & Media, this event is designed to celebrate the creative spirit of Richmond while connecting neighbors through the universal language of music. Enjoy live performances, meet new people, support local arts, and experience the vibrant energy that continues to shape the Richmond Arts Corridor.

Whether you’re a lifelong Richmond resident or visiting for the first time, come relax, dance, and experience an afternoon filled with rhythm, joy, and community.

Event Highlights:

  • Live music by Carlitos Medrano & Sabor de mi Cub
  • Community connection
  • Food and fun for all ages
  • Free admission with RSVP

Bring your family, invite a friend, and be part of Richmond’s growing arts movement—where creativity, culture, and community come together. We can’t wait to see you there!

Click here for Live Music on the Corridor Tickets, Saturday, July 25  •  1 PM – 3 PM | Eventbrite.

For more information visit Richmond Art Center.

El Cerrito Police Officer honored with MADD Award

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El Cerrito Police Officer Will Sepe (center) is joined by ECPD leadership during the MADD Award ceremony July 9th. Photo: El Cerrito PD

For 27 DUI arrests

By El Cerrito Police Department

Congratulations to Officer Will Sepe, who was recognized at the recent Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Awards for his outstanding efforts to keep our community safe. Officer Sepe made 27 DUI arrests in 2025, demonstrating his commitment to removing impaired drivers from our roadways and helping prevent impaired driving crashes.

He was honored at the 2026 MADD Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremony, held at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, Thursday, July 9.

El Cerrito Police Officer Sepe congratulated at the MADD Award ceremony July 9, 2026, and his plaque. Photos: El Cerrito PD

Each year, MADD honors law enforcement officers for their impaired‑driving arrest achievements, as well as first responders, prosecutors, probation officers and MADD volunteers for their life‑saving contributions. Each has contributed to putting an end to drunk and drugged driving, supporting the victims of these violent crimes, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use. Every impaired driver removed from the road represents a potential life saved.

The 23152 Pin Award is given to sworn officers who make 25 or more DUI arrests in a single year. The pin’s red color symbolizes victims of impaired‑driving crashes and officers killed or injured in such collisions.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his dedication to public safety.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Richmond Police crackdown on illegal fireworks during July 4th Enforcement Operation

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Video screenshot of illegal fireworks in Richmond on July 4th, 2026, an officer extinguishes fireworks and illegal fireworks confiscated. Source: Richmond PD

“Upward of 500 people were blocking roadways and setting off illegal fireworks.”

By Richmond Police Department

Throughout America’s 250th Independence Day on July 4, 2026, the Richmond Police Department had a strong presence across the city, with additional officers dedicated solely to enforcing illegal fireworks violations. Throughout the evening, officers responded to several areas where gatherings of upward of 500 people were blocking roadways and setting off illegal fireworks. These incidents required officers to remain on scene for extended periods to help maintain public safety, keep roadways secure and ensure the gatherings dispersed safely.

Despite these challenges, Richmond Police Officers remained focused on their mission. Officers utilized our Drone First Responder (DFR) program to locate illegal fireworks activity, confiscated numerous illegal fireworks, issued six citations for fireworks violations, and recovered a loaded firearm during enforcement operations.

More illegal fireworks and firearm confiscated on July 4th, 2026. Photos: Richmond PD

By collecting video evidence first, Officers were able to focus on specific individuals, also leading to vehicle impounds. Richmond PD is grateful to have access to this outstanding tool which better enables us to safeguard the public and keep your Officers safe. (See video)

The Richmond Police Department will continue to take a proactive approach to illegal fireworks enforcement and criminal activity that threatens the safety of our neighborhoods. Our officers remain committed to protecting the community and using every available resource to keep Richmond safe. We appreciate the many residents who chose to celebrate responsibly and respectfully.

San Pablo Police Officers honored with MADD Award

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San Pablo Police Officers Adam Grabow and Brian Ashley (with plaques) are joined by Chief Brian Bubar (left) and Captain Shawn Ray (right) outside the Blackhawk Museum following the awards ceremony July 9, 2026, and the officers’ plaques and pins. Photo: San Pablo PD

By San Pablo Police Department

Every year, the California Office of Traffic Safety and Mothers Against Drunk Driving recognize law enforcement officers across California for their outstanding efforts in DUI prevention and traffic safety enforcement.

On Thursday, July 9, 2026, SPPD Officer Brian Ashley and Officer Adam Grabow were honored at the MADD Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Recognition Awards Ceremony, held at the Blackhawk Museum in Danville, for their dedication to keeping our roadways safe. This marks Officer Ashley’s second consecutive year receiving recognition from MADD for his commitment to DUI prevention and enforcement.

Over the past year, Officers Ashley and Grabow have helped remove numerous impaired drivers from San Pablo’s streets. Every DUI arrest represents a potential tragedy prevented and lives protected.

Each year, MADD honors law enforcement officers for their impaired‑driving arrest achievements, as well as first responders, prosecutors, probation officers and MADD volunteers for their life‑saving contributions. Each has contributed to putting an end to drunk and drugged driving, supporting the victims of these violent crimes, and preventing underage drinking and other drug use. Every impaired driver removed from the road represents a potential life saved.

The 23152 Pin Award is given to sworn officers who make 25 or more DUI arrests in a single year. The pin’s red color symbolizes victims of impaired‑driving crashes and officers killed or injured in such collisions.

Congratulations, Officers Ashley and Grabow! Thank you for your relentless commitment to the safety of our San Pablo community.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Richmond attempted homicide suspect arrested two days after shooting

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18-year-old Anderson Marroquin of Vallejo

By Richmond Police Department

An attempted homicide suspect has been arrested two days after an incident that occurred on the evening of July 12, 2026, in the 100 block of Harbour Way South.

At approximately 9:41 p.m., Richmond Police officers responded to a report of a traffic collision and a victim suffering from a gunshot wound in the 100 block of Harbour Way South. Officers arrived on scene and found one of the drivers of the traffic collision suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the hospital and is in stable condition.

During the preliminary investigation, officers determined two vehicles were involved in the minor traffic collision. For unknown reasons, an occupant of one of the vehicles involved in the collision shot at the other involved vehicle, striking the driver of the vehicle. The shooter then fled on foot from the scene of the collision. Officers quickly identified 18-year-old Anderson Marroquin as the suspect in this shooting. Officers also determined that Marroquin had an active PC 187-Murder warrant for his arrest out of the city of Vallejo. The Richmond Police Department Homicide Unit responded and assumed responsibility for the investigation.

On July 14, 2026 (two days after the shooting), Detectives learned Marroquin was in the city of Palo Alto. With the assistance of the Palo Alto Police Department, Marroquin was arrested for PC 664/187 -Attempted Homicide and the Vallejo Police Department’s murder case. The Vallejo Police Department took Marroquin into custody and subsequently booked him into the Solano County Jail on an outstanding warrant. The Attempted Homicide case that occurred in the City of Richmond is being forwarded to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for them to review and file charges.

According to localcrimenews.com, the five-feet, five-inch tall, 220-pound Marroquin is Hispanic.

This arrest highlights the outstanding work and collaboration between the Richmond Police Department, Palo Alto Police Department, and Vallejo Police Department in quickly bringing a violent offender into custody.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Richmond Police Department Investigations Bureau at (510) 621-1288.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Police investigate shooting of two in Richmond

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By Richmond Police Department

As of Wednesday night, July 15, 2026, at 9:00 p.m., Richmond Police Officers are investigating a shooting in the 400 block of Wilson Avenue.

At this time, there are two victims. One victim has been airlifted to a local trauma center for medical treatment.

If you witnessed the incident or have any information that may assist investigators, please contact the Richmond Police Department at (510) 233-1214.

Updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Contra Costa businesses receive support from Alameda County Board of Supervisors for ultra-light rail freight and transit system, underground utility “SuperGrid”

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Renderings source: CyberTran International, Inc.

Richmond’s CyberTran International, Inc., EarthGrid, UC Berkeley’s PATH, San Ramon’s Manex announce major achievement signaling new era of freight rail innovation and development, East Bay job creation

Richmond, CA – The Alameda County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, officially and unanimously adopted a resolution in support of moving freight through the county using Richmond-based CyberTran International’s Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit (ULRF&T) system. The ULRF&T system is planned to operate from Oakland to the Central Valley via underground tunnels, and create a next-generation SuperGrid for underground utilities.

The development partnership includes CyberTran International, Richmond-based EarthGrid, U.C. Berkeley Partners in Advanced Transportation Technology (PATH), located at the Richmond Field Station, and the San Ramon-based Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence (Manex).

“Adoption…demonstrates…support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region.” – Supervisor Nate Miley

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley has been a leading advocate for this effort. According to his staff report for the agenda item, #46, “The proposed ULRF&T system is intended to provide a lower-cost, zero-carbon alternative to conventional freight and transit rail systems while reducing truck traffic along the heavily congested Interstate 580 corridor. EarthGrid’s proposed underground SuperGrid technology would provide tunnel infrastructure capable of supporting both freight transportation and modernized utility corridors, while PATH contributes expertise in autonomous vehicle technology. MANEX would assist CyberTran in establishing a manufacturing facility within Alameda County, creating local jobs and supporting advanced manufacturing in the East Bay. As part of this initiative, CyberTran and its partners are also proposing the development of an Inland Port in eastern Alameda County to facilitate the movement of goods between the Port of Oakland and California’s Central Valley.”

“Adoption of the attached resolution demonstrates the County’s support for continued exploration and development of the Ultra-Light Rail Freight and Transit system, associated underground infrastructure improvements, and the establishment of advanced manufacturing and Inland Port facilities that could provide long-term transportation, environmental, and economic benefits to the East Bay region,” the staff report concludes.

Miley made the motion to adopt the resolution, Board President David Haubert seconded the motion, and it passed on a vote of 5-0. (See AlCo BOS CyberTran Resolution 071426)

“Automobiles have evolved, aviation has evolved, aerospace has evolved, it’s time for rail to evolve. Plus, roving blackouts and wildfires along with tomorrow’s energy and water needs dictate that it’s time to upgrade our outdated utility grid,” said Dexter Vizinau, CEO of CyberTran International.

Key Highlights of the Resolution

  • The initiative seeks to establish a Public Private Partnership Pilot Project.
  • The project will focus on developing and deploying an innovative autonomous rail system designed to efficiently transport freight, reduce costs, and decrease travel times compared to traditional trucking methods.
  • The County’s resolution also supports UC Berkeley PATH’s work to research, develop, and implement an autonomous ULRF&T system.
  • EarthGrid’s plasma boring technology is endorsed for tunnel construction, which will form a SuperGrid for utilities and facilitate the ULRF&T transit network.
  • Manex is supported in creating a CyberTran factory in Alameda County to manufacture and distribute ULRF&T systems globally.
  • This initiative is expected to reduce traffic congestion, particularly along the Highway 580 Corridor.
  • Thousands of well-paying jobs are anticipated for Alameda County residents because of the project.
  • By lessening truck traffic and congestion, the county aims to reduce negative environmental impacts.

Commitment to East Bay Community

The companies and organizations involved have a long history of fostering innovation and supporting skilled individuals, organizations, and businesses. Their strong ties to Alameda and Contra Costa County demonstrate their dedication to quality, creativity and integrity. (See related articles here, here and here)

(See 2:01:30 mark of Board meeting video)

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Note: The publisher of the Herald has a financial interest in CyberTran International, Inc.

SFPD’s Violence Reduction Team releases video of multiple arrests in Contra Costa

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Items were seen being tossed from the second suspect vehicle believed to be evidence from the robbery before being stopped. Video screenshots. Source: SFPD

Following gang-related armed jewelry store robbery

By San Francisco Police Department

San Francisco, CA — An investigation by the San Francisco Police Department’s Violence Reduction Team (VRT) into a series of gang-related homicides led to the arrest of multiple suspects and the recovery of firearms after investigators coordinated with regional law enforcement agencies following an alleged armed jewelry store robbery in Contra Costa County.

During June 2026, VRT investigators were conducting surveillance as part of an ongoing investigation into multiple gang-related homicides and efforts to prevent additional acts of violence. During the investigation, officers observed several armed individuals exit a vehicle in San Francisco carrying firearms, including assault-style rifles. Based on their observations, investigators believed the group was preparing to target rival gang members. Detectives continued monitoring the suspects and identified several individuals known to investigators.

On June 28, 2026, investigators observed the group travel to Concord, where they allegedly committed an armed jewelry store robbery inside the Sunvalley mall. As previously reported, according to Concord Police, “Officers arrived on scene and learned that at least four suspects had smashed display cases at the Banter jewelry kiosk and pepper sprayed a patron during the commission of the robbery. The suspects fled the area prior to officers’ arrival.”

Following the robbery, the suspects switched vehicles in an apparent attempt to evade law enforcement. Investigators coordinated a regional enforcement operation to safely apprehend those involved.

The suspect in Richmond fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. Video screenshot. Source: SFPD

In Richmond, California, during the surveillance, one suspect was seen exiting a vehicle and entered a second SUV. When officers attempted to detain him, he fled on foot before being quickly taken into custody. A subsequent search of the SUV resulted in the recovery of a handgun, an assault-style rifle, ammunition, and additional evidence believed to be connected to the investigation.

Meanwhile, investigators continued tracking a second vehicle with the assistance of law enforcement drones. Officers observed occupants allegedly discarding items from the vehicle that investigators believe were evidence from the robbery. The vehicle was ultimately stopped, and officers conducted a felony stop, safely taking the occupants into custody without further incident.

In total, multiple suspects were arrested during the coordinated operation.

As the investigation continued, detectives served search warrants at residences in Richmond and Oakland associated with the suspects, recovering additional evidence.

An assault-style weapon discovered during searches of one of the homes following the arrests. Video screenshot. Source: SFPD

The case was presented to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration on the following arrested individuals, who were charged:

  • Cameron Haynes, 21-year-old, San Francsico
  • Terry Franklin, 29-year-old, San Francisco / Daly City
  • Lavar Kent, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Eric Howard, 18-year-old, San Francisco
  • Teric Howard, 20-year-old, San Francisco

Concord Police posted on their Facebook page, “Once again, the Concord Police Department remains committed to partnering with our allied law enforcement agencies to bring those who come into our community and commit crime to justice. We are thankful for SFPD’s partnership!”

See related video.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the San Francisco Police Department at 415-575-4444 or submit tips anonymously through the SFPD Tip Line at 1-415-575-4444 or by texting TIP411 and beginning the message with “SFPD.”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.