The Sacramento Brief

I’m Carol. It’s Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Let’s get to it.

NEWS

Tragedy in Roseville, where police have arrested two suspects in a child abuse case that left a 7-year-old girl dead and a 5-year-old injured.

According to the Roseville Police Department, officers were called to a home on Oahu Court around 7:30 a.m. Monday. Detectives later determined the case to be a homicide involving child abuse.

Two suspects are in custody facing charges including murder and felony child abuse. Two other children were found unharmed.

CITY WATCH

Sacramento County Public Health is expanding its free car seat safety program with a $137,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety.

In partnership with Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center, the program provides no-cost car seats, safety checks, and hands-on education, with a focus on underserved and refugee communities.

Proper car seats can reduce crash deaths by up to 71% for infants. Last year, 400 car seats were distributed countywide.

Appointments are available now: 916-864-5779

🔗 https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/free-car-seat-program-protects-children-.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

Rain likely after 4 p.m., with areas of dense fog before 11 a.m.

High near 60, south-southeast winds 7–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.

Chance of rain 80%, with light accumulation expected.

🔗 https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?textField1=38.52&textField2=-121.44

EVENTS

Quick reminder: Theatre of Lights is still running through Christmas Eve at the Old Sacramento Waterfront.

The free, immersive holiday show retells ’Twas the Night Before Christmas in a Sacramento-style production, presented by the Downtown Sacramento Partnership and sponsored by the Sacramento Kings.

Shows tonight and tomorrow at 6:30 p.m.

Looking ahead to Christmas Day, Vines Cafe at Hyatt Regency Sacramento is hosting a festive Christmas Brunch from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Menu highlights include ham Benedict, challah French toast, made-to-order omelets, pastries, and smoked salmon.

$40 adults | $20 kids | $21 bottomless mimosas. Reservations recommended.

🔗 https://www.hyatt.com/content/dam/hotel/propertysites/assets/regency/sacra/documents/en_us/dining/vines/Vines_Christmas_Menu_2025.pdf

I’m Carol — it’s Monday, December 22, 2025. Let’s get you caught up.

NEWS

• A suspect believed to be connected to a shooting yesterday has been safely detained after a barricaded standoff in South Sacramento. The incident occurred at a home on the 8300 block of Fieldpoppy Circle, where SWAT, K-9, crisis negotiators, and a drone team responded. The suspect is being transported to jail. Authorities say his identity and booking photo will be released after processing.
• Deputies were also active countywide as part of a retail theft enforcement operation. The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office says its Organized Retail Crime Task Force made multiple arrests over three days, including 17 on Day Three at major shopping centers. Officials say the goal is reducing repeat retail theft that impacts businesses and shoppers. Some cases now qualify as felonies under Proposition 36. Enforcement continues through the holiday season.
• Investigators are asking for help in a deadly hit-and-run. A 25-year-old woman was killed Saturday night while crossing Bruceville Road just south of Di Lusso Drive. Authorities say she was struck by a southbound vehicle near the center of the roadway just after 8 p.m. and died at the scene. The suspect vehicle is described as a dark-colored SUV. The driver fled, and the investigation is ongoing.

WEATHER

• Showers today with a high near 58. South-southeast winds 6 to 8 mph. Rain chances at 90%, with up to a half inch possible.

CITY WATCH

• Weather Respite

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/county-activates-weather-respite-beginning-december-11.html#gsc.tab=0

EVENTS

• Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour — a guided waterfront stroll featuring local tastings and Gold Rush history. https://sactownbites.com/product/historic-old-sacramento-walking-food-tour/
• Monday Night Putters Spring League at Tipsy Putt DOCO — partner mini-golf, creative challenges, and prizes. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/monday-night-putters-sacramento-fall-season-tickets-1271629009599
• Prayer in Motion: Pilates & Praise — Mondays at 7 p.m. in Carmichael, blending movement, worship music, and reflection. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prayer-in-motion-pilates-praise-mondays-tickets-1778886199509

Show Notes

NEWS

Man arrested for Sexual Assault against a 13-year-old.

https://x.com/sacsheriff/status/2001808878091280680?s=46&t=PhCR2qG_2J0JHQypV0KFew

CITY WATCH

• Winter solstice (Dec 21) marks the longest night of the year; Sacramento County urges community support during cold, wet weather.
• Donations accepted through Jan 5 at Warren E. Thornton Youth Center. High-need items: blankets, unopened hygiene items, winter clothing, socks, hats, gloves, dog food. Men’s clothing especially needed.
• Separate food and clothing drive runs through Jan 1, 2026 at 700 Franklin Blvd., Suite 200, coordinated with Another Choice Another Chance.
• Adult Protective Services successfully stabilized a Sacramento County senior after more than a year of coordinated care. He moved into assisted living in Feb 2025 and is now safe and thriving.
• More info: https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

• 85% chance of rain today
• Steadiest rain this afternoon
• High: 57°

EVENTS

• American River Group Walk
  • Fri 8:00 a.m. | Rossmoor Bar River Access
  • 3–4 miles, flat, dogs welcome | Meets M/W/F
  • https://www.meetup.com/these-boots-are-made-for-walking-hiking-skiing-and-more/events/312223668/

• Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op Tour & Lunch
  • Fri 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op
  • Guided shopping + salad lunch | Limited space
  • https://www.meetup.com/sacvegansociety-org/events/312316924/

• Ugly Sweater Dart Shoot
  • Sat 12:00 p.m. | Bike Dog Brewing East Sac
  • $15 entry | Random teams | Prizes
  • https://svda.org/upcoming-event/ugly-sweater-shoot/

• Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
  • Sat 8:45–10:00 p.m. | First United Methodist Church
  • Tickets from $31
  • https://eventvesta.com/events/119871/t/tickets

• Gingerbread House Decorating Party
  • Sun 4:00–6:00 p.m. | The Frederic Rooftop
  • Gingerbread kit, treats, rooftop views
  • https://www.instagram.com/lavishbakingacademy

The Sacramento Brief — Thursday, December 18, 2025

Top Stories

• Sheriff’s North Patrol deputies arrested Mitchell Smith after a brief pursuit ended in a crash. Smith fled a traffic stop for a missing rear license plate, collided with another vehicle, and crashed into a curb. No injuries were reported. Smith had multiple outstanding felony warrants and was on post-release community supervision. He was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail without bail.
• Sacramento Police Department arrested a man Wednesday afternoon following a pursuit involving a child. Officers responding to a welfare check on the 1400 block of 30th Street learned the suspect fled with his child in the car. The pursuit was terminated due to conditions. The child was safely dropped off with a family member. The suspect was later located and arrested on child endangerment and pursuit-related charges.
• Roseville Police Department and California Highway Patrol are investigating after a stolen dump truck crashed on Highway 50 following a multi-mile pursuit. The chase began near Angus Road around 4:30 p.m. The dump truck flipped just before 5 p.m. The investigation remains ongoing.

City Watch Alert

• Sacramento County Public Health reports a spike in local Salmonella cases tied to a statewide outbreak linked to Vega Farms eggs from Dixon.
• Statewide cases: 66 total; Sacramento County: 49 cases.
• 13 hospitalizations reported; no deaths.
• A voluntary recall is in effect. Residents and businesses should not eat, sell, or serve recalled in-shell eggs.
• Consumers should discard recalled eggs or return them for a refund and sanitize affected surfaces.
• Recall details and product photos: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/NR25-025.aspx

Weather

• Wednesday: Sunny, high of 65.
• Thursday: Partly cloudy, high of 58.
• Temperatures trending warmer after an extended stretch of cooler days.

Events

• SacTech Social December Meetup Hop Gardens, 2904 Franklin Blvd | 6–8 p.m. Networking night for Sacramento’s tech community. Apps and pizza provided. RSVP: https://www.meetup.com/sactechsocial/events/311881089/
• D&D n RPGs Game Night Great Escape Games | 6–9 p.m. All RPG systems welcome. Pre-generated characters and dice available. Details: https://www.meetup.com/dndnrpgs/events/312218091/

I’m Carol — it’s Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Let’s get you caught up.

A police chase near Cal Expo Tuesday afternoon ended with two arrests and multiple vehicles damaged, according to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say just after 5 p.m., they attempted to stop a vehicle near Challenge Way and Exposition Boulevard involving known gang members and associates. The driver led deputies on a short pursuit, striking several civilian vehicles.

Authorities say no injuries were reported, but two illegal firearms with extended magazines were recovered. Two suspects were arrested, and one remains outstanding.

And in another case earlier this month, officers with the Sacramento Police Department Problem Oriented Policing unit spotted an RV with expired registration in the 3800 block of Florin Road.

During contact, officers learned the owner was on probation. A probation search uncovered a machine gun with a silencer, ammunition, and a small amount of cocaine.

The RV owner, 63-year-old Gary Elliott of Sacramento, was arrested on weapons and drug-related charges.

[CITY WATCH]

The holidays are meant to feel joyful, but for many, they bring complicated emotions. Family gatherings can reopen old wounds or deepen the grief of missing someone you love.

If this season feels heavier, that’s okay. Taking pauses, setting gentle boundaries, and allowing yourself to feel can make a difference.

Support is available through Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text 988 — you don’t have to carry it alone.

[WEATHER]

A 70% chance of rain today, with a high near 64 degrees.

[EVENTS]

Tonight in Sacramento — three easy ways to get into the holiday mood.

Book Wreath Making at Teneral Cellars starts at 6:30 p.m. — $45, including materials, instruction, and a glass of wine, at 1050 20th Street.https://teneralcellars.orderport.net/product-details/0224/book-wreath-making-class

Prefer to sit back and enjoy the show? A Christmas Carol, Sam Kebede’s fresh adaptation, runs now through December 28 at 2700 Capitol Avenue.

https://bstreettheatre.org/mainstage/a-christmas-carol-2025/

And wrap the night with free live music — Rusty Sterling performs at 7 p.m. at the Fox & Goose, 1001 R Street. Tips welcome, cozy vibes guaranteed.

https://foxandgoose.com/events/#events

I’m Carol. It’s Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Let’s get you caught up.

NEWS

Officers made an arrest Friday afternoon following a reported brandishing incident near Cedar Ridge Apartments. Just after 3 p.m., police responded to the 4900 block of Mack Road for reports of a suspect displaying a firearm. Officers located the suspect vehicle, conducted a traffic stop, recovered an illegally possessed firearm, and arrested the suspect on related charges.

A Sacramento County judge has ordered a defendant to repay more than $132,000 for felony workers’ compensation fraud. The Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office says Gustavo Cisneros was convicted in 2024 after exaggerating injuries and filing multiple workers’ comp claims using different Social Security numbers and dates of birth. At a December 10 hearing, Judge Kenneth Brody ordered full restitution of $132,023.59.

CITY WATCH

Sacramento Regional Transit has secured $25.8 million in Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities funding — part of $126 million total for the region. The investment delivers new low-floor light rail vehicles, station and signal upgrades, and supports 546 affordable homes, cutting emissions equal to 67,000 cars per year.

https://sgc.ca.gov/grant-programs/ahsc/

WEATHER

A modest warm-up today with a high near 52 this afternoon. Temperatures ease back into the upper 40s tonight, with rain arriving tomorrow and unsettled conditions heading into midweek.

EVENTS

Trivia for a Great Cause: Toys for Tots runs Tuesday, December 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Empress Tavern, beneath the Crest Theatre. Admission is free — bring a new, unwrapped toy as your ticket to play. Teams up to six, prizes for top finishers, food and drinks available, and solo players welcome.

https://www.empresstavern.com/calendar

Swiftie Paint, Sip & Sing: The Era’s Tour hits Tuesday, December 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Shop Midtown. Celebrate every era of Taylor Swift with painting, sing-alongs, themed outfits, and sparkle. Tickets are $65, 21+, and include all supplies, a $20 food and drink voucher, and a surprise gift.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/swiftie-paint-sip-sing-the-eras-tour-tickets-1976378277631

B Street Theatre is enrolling kids and teens in acting classes for Winter and Spring 2026, with Saturday sessions for ages 6 to 17. Classes focus on acting fundamentals through theatre games, improvisation, movement, voice, and performance. Sessions run January 17–March 7 and March 28–May 16. Cost is $350 per session, with $25 off for siblings or multiple enrollments.

https://bstreettheatre.org/education/youth-class-sign-up/kids-classes/

I’m Carol. It’s Monday, December 15, 2025. Let’s get to it.

If you were off the grid this weekend, here’s what you need to know as we roll into Monday.

A pedestrian was killed in a multi-vehicle crash on Stockton Boulevard near Elsie Avenue just after 4 p.m.

Late Saturday night, officers were called to the 3000 block of Marysville Boulevard just before 2 a.m. after reports of gunfire. Investigators located evidence of a shooting, but no injuries were reported. Officers documented the scene, and the investigation remains active.

Earlier that evening, near North B Street and Dos Rios Street, officers contacted a suspect known from a recent drug-sales arrest. During that contact, police located multiple bindles of narcotics and an illegally possessed, loaded firearm. The suspect was arrested on related charges.

And before the night wrapped, officers conducted a bicycle stop near 43rd Street and 4th Avenue. Two individuals were contacted—both were found to have outstanding felony warrants and were arrested.

In other news, the District Attorney’s Office says Daniel Robinson, also known as Aurora Nova, was convicted of multiple felony sex crimes against two children. He now faces up to 162 years to life in prison, with sentencing scheduled for January 23rd.

https://www.sacda.org/2025/12/defendant-convicted-of-sexually-abusing-two-girls/

One busy weekend—investigations ongoing, arrests made, and officers staying proactive as we head into a new week.

[CITY WATCH]

Sacramento has released its weekly homelessness response report. From December 1st through 7th, the City received 583 calls to 311, opening more than 2,100 cases and closing nearly 3,000. Outreach teams enrolled 115 people into services, placed 20 into shelter or navigation centers, and removed more than 91,000 pounds of trash. Shelter space remains limited citywide.

https://sacramentocityexpress.com/2025/12/12/data-report-how-the-city-responded-to-homelessness-dec-1-7/

[WEATHER]

We’re looking at a high near 51 degrees today. Mostly cloudy conditions are expected—no sunshine on the forecast, though we did catch a brief peek yesterday.

[EVENTS]

The Elk Grove Community Concert Band is hosting a free Holiday Concert Monday night at Joseph Kerr Middle School. The concert starts at 7 p.m. and features professional musicians, community members, and students. Admission is free, with donations encouraged.

https://www.elkgrovecommunityband.org

And A Very Sinatra Christmas Special takes over The Citizen Hotel Monday night. Enjoy classic holiday favorites made famous by Frank Sinatra inside the Metropolitan Terrace Ballroom. The show runs from 8:30 to 9:45 p.m. Tickets are $45, with seating assigned on arrival.

https://feverup.com/m/143320

Roseville Police have arrested a carjacking suspect after a coordinated overnight investigation.

Officers responded to Sutter Roseville Medical Center on December 9 after a woman was seriously injured during a carjacking in the parking lot. Police say the suspect asked for a ride, then took the vehicle by force — striking the victim and a parked car as he fled.

The suspect, 30-year-old Christian Somerville of Orangevale, was located and arrested within sixteen hours with help from Folsom Police and the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. He faces multiple felony charges, including carjacking and assault with a deadly weapon.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DSI9YisjIVo/

Sacramento Police will conduct a DUI checkpoint Friday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at an undisclosed location within city limits. Officers remind drivers that alcohol, drugs, and some medications can impair driving. A first DUI can cost more than $13,000. Funding is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety.

https://apps.sacpd.org/Releases/liveview.aspx?reference=20251211-078

Sacramento County’s Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services has been named Clear Impact’s first-ever Social Sector Hero of the Year, recognizing measurable results, transparency, and community impact.

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/department-of-child-family-and-adult-services-awarded-for-commit.html#gsc.tab=0

Weather remains foggy with highs in the mid 40s.

Events:

Tonight at 7, the Winter Wonderland Jazz Concert takes place at the Westlake Clubhouse in Natomas. Carol Manson performs with the Blue Skies Band, featuring saxophonist Byron Colborn.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-jazz-concert-carol-manson-the-blue-skies-band-with-byron-colborn-tickets-1560084648179?aff=oddtdtcreator

Also tonight, comedian Key Lewis performs at Laughs Unlimited with shows at 7:30 and 9:30.

https://www.laughsunlimited.com/events/118111

Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m., Elk Grove Fine Arts Center hosts Working with Transfers 101 with Judy Lim.

https://elkgrovefineartscenter.org/product/december-13-working-with-transfers-101-with-judy-lim/

Sunday morning, enjoy Breakfast with Santa aboard the Delta King.

https://deltaking.ticketspice.com/breakfast-with-santa

From 11 to 1 Sunday, Amazing Dogs Rescue hosts an adoption event at PetSmart on Watt Avenue.

https://amazingdogsrescue.org/event/puppy-rescue-dog-adoption-event-at-sacramento-petsmart-on-12-14-2025/

THE SACRAMENTO BRIEF — December 11, 2025

I’m Carol. Let’s get you caught up.

NEWS

Downtown Homicide Arrest

Sacramento Police have arrested an 18-year-old suspect in a September homicide near 11th & K.

Officers responded just before 11 p.m. on September 2 and found a man with severe blunt-force injuries. He later died at the hospital.

After months of follow-up work, detectives identified Dominick Curtisgreen of Carmichael, who was arrested on December 9 and booked on homicide charges.

The victim’s name will be released after next-of-kin notification.

Carjacking Pursuit — Kokomo Drive

Late Tuesday night, officers spotted a recently carjacked vehicle in the 4800 block of Kokomo Drive. When they attempted a stop, the driver fled. Several suspects bailed out on foot after the vehicle slowed.

A perimeter was set, and three individuals were detained and arrested on related charges.

CITY WATCH

Sacramento County Supervisors have approved a multi-year plan to launch a Flexible Housing Pool, creating a coordinated system that links rental assistance, housing navigation, and supportive services for Medi-Cal members at risk of homelessness.

The County will partner with local health plans, and Brilliant Corners will manage subsidies and landlord support.

This positions Sacramento County as a statewide leader ahead of new CalAIM requirements in 2026.

🔗 https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/board-approves-flexible-housing-pool-to-address-homelessness.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

Fogged in again — expect tule fog throughout the day and a high of 46°.

GETTING AROUND TOWN

If you’re heading to SMF, allow extra time. Northbound I-5 has a daytime lane closure from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Caltrans crack-seal work. Delays are expected.

🔗 https://x.com/CaltransDist3/status/1998911168757514400

EVENTS

Jingle Jazz Christmas Concert — 7:30 PM

Their East Coast and L.A. run sold out — and tonight the holiday jazz magic hits Northern California for the first time.

Featuring Gino Rosaria, BK Jackson, and Erin Stevenson, whose resume includes performing with Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Duran Duran.

Doors open at 6:30. Venue: 2700 Capitol Avenue.

🔗 https://bstreettheatre.org/box-office/buy-tickets

West End Blues — Final Concert

For a deeper dive into Sacramento’s jazz legacy, the West End Blues series closes tonight with a journey from the early 1900s to 1970.

Roger Smith (formerly of Tower of Power) joins the Harley White Jr. Orchestra for this special performance.

Doors at 6; music 6:30–8:30 at the Sacramento History Museum, 101 I Street. Tickets $35–$60 and include light appetizers and drinks.

🔗 https://sachistorymuseum.org/events/a-sacramento-jazz-story-west-end-blues/

MUSIC CREDIT

News theme composed by Steven OXEN.

The Sacramento Brief — December 10, 2025

NEWS

SPD & Downtown Commons Open New Bike Unit Office

Sacramento Police and Downtown Commons are launching a new SPD Bike Unit office at 320 K Street, giving officers a dedicated deployment point in the downtown core. The department says it will boost visibility, responsiveness, and community connection. DOCO leaders call it a shared investment in a safer, more vibrant downtown.

The Bike Unit is expected to be fully operational by early 2026.

Vandalism Call Leads to Assault & Foot Pursuit

Elsewhere in the city, officers responding to a vandalism call on Northfield Drive saw the suspect assault the victim on scene. When officers stepped in, the suspect ran — but was caught quickly and booked into Juvenile Hall on multiple charges.

Suspicious Person Stop on Stockton Blvd

Earlier the same morning, officers stopped a suspicious person along 5600 Stockton Boulevard. That individual also tried to flee, but was detained. Officers say the suspect attempted to discard narcotics during the chase; the drugs were recovered, and the suspect was arrested.

CITY WATCH

Weather Respite Activation

Sacramento County is activating a weather respite site as this cold, foggy system lingers.

Starting Thursday at 2 p.m., the Warren E. Thornton Youth Center will offer shelter through Monday morning, with an extension possible.

18+ only. Pets allowed with crates provided. Guests receive meals, cots, showers, restrooms, and device charging.

Before traveling, call 2-1-1 to check capacity. SacRT is offering free rides to support access.

🔗 County details:

https://www.saccounty.gov/us/en/articles/2025-articles/county-activates-weather-respite-beginning-december-11.html#gsc.tab=0

WEATHER

Fog hangs around again today. Expect a chilly start, a high near 46°, and almost no chance of sun.

EVENTS

Wee Wednesday at the Crocker

A playful, interactive gallery adventure for little ones ages 3–5. Two sessions on Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Kids explore art through storytelling and guided engagement that builds confidence and creativity.

Free for members and children; $15 general admission.

Registration recommended; drop-ins welcome when space allows.

🔗 Event link:

https://www.crockerart.org/events/3998/wee-wednesday

ArtMix: Grinchmas at the Crocker

Looking for something festive and grown-up?

The Crocker’s holiday ArtMix: Grinchmas returns Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6–9 p.m.

Expect drag performances, live DJs, holiday mischief, hands-on artmaking, and a cheeky White Elephant exchange.

Free for members; $25 for nonmembers.

🔗 Event link:

https://www.crockerart.org/events/3880/artmix-grinchmas