Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:
On July 7, 2026, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Team, assisted by the HCSO Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET) and the Humboldt County Drug Task Force (HCDTF), served a search warrant in the Eureka area as part of an investigation into the possession and sales of firearms.
The search warrant was served on 40-year-old Michael Joseph Brennan and his associated residence. During the search, deputies located a stolen handgun, ammunition, body armor, a flare gun, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and DMT.
Brennan is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. The handgun recovered during the search had been reported stolen out of Redding. The body armor was also determined to be stolen.
At the conclusion of the investigation, Michael Joseph Brennan was arrested and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on the following charges:
PC 30305(a) – Person prohibited from possessing ammunition
PC 29800(a) – Convicted felon in possession of a firearm
HS 11370.1(a)– Possession of a controlled substance while armed
PC 313609a) – Felon in possession of body armor
PC 496(a) – Possession of stolen property
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to addressing narcotics-related crime and improving public safety through proactive enforcement and strong community partnerships.
Anyone with information related to this investigation or other drug-related activity or problem areas associated with criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip Line at (707) 268-2539.
On June 12, 2026, at approximately 12:00 p.m., officers with the Eureka Police Department (EPD), along with
Humboldt Bay Fire and City Ambulance personnel, responded to the intersection of Henderson Street and F
Street for the report of a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel located the pedestrian suffering from a head injury sustained in the
collision. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital before being airlifted to an out-of-area trauma
center for advanced medical care.
The pedestrian has been identified as Margaret Coleman, 77, of Fortuna. She succumbed to her injuries on
June 22, 2026.
Based on witness statements and evidence collected at the scene, investigators determined the collision
occurred at a slow speed when the driver failed to observe the pedestrian as she was crossing within a marked
crosswalk.
At this time, alcohol and drugs do not appear to have been contributing factors in the collision. The driver has
been identified as Tiffany Mulder, 51, of Hydesville.
This case is being forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review on vehicular manslaughter charges.
The investigation remains active investigation anyone who witnessed the collision or has additional
information is encouraged to contact the Eureka Police Department at (707) 441-4300.
The Hoopa Valley Tribe strongly condemns the decision by Humboldt County Superior Court Judge Wilson to temporarily release the juvenile suspects charged in the March 10, 2026 killing of Hoopa Tribal member Dylan Moon for ceremonial purposes.
This decision has caused profound pain and outrage throughout our community. Equally troubling is that the families of the victims were not notified in advance and instead learned of the release only after seeing the suspects present during ceremonial gatherings. No family should be forced to experience such unnecessary trauma.
The Hoopa Valley Tribe recognizes the importance of our ceremonies, traditions, and cultural practices. However, those sacred traditions should never come at the expense of the dignity, safety, or emotional well-being of victims’ families. Justice requires careful consideration of both the rights of the accused and the lasting harm suffered by those whose lives have been forever changed by violent crime.
The release of individuals accused of taking the life of one of our Tribal members undermines public confidence in the justice system and has created understandable fear, anger, and uncertainty throughout the Hoopa Valley and neighboring river communities. Decisions of this magnitude must also account for the safety of the public and the emotional impact on victims, witnesses, and families who continue to grieve.
The Hoopa Valley Tribe stands in unwavering support of Dylan Moon’s family and all those affected by this tragedy. We will continue to advocate for a justice system that honors victims, protects our communities, and recognizes the devastating consequences that these decisions have on Tribal families.
We respectfully call upon the Humboldt County Superior Court and all agencies involved to ensure that future decisions involving the release of individuals accused of violent crimes include meaningful consideration of community safety, transparency, and timely notification to victims and their families.
The Hoopa Valley Tribe remains committed to protecting our people, honoring the memory of Dylan Moon and all victims whose lives have been taken by violence, standing beside the families who continue to grieve, and pursuing justice with integrity, accountability, and unwavering respect for every member of our community affected by these tragic acts.
First 5 Humboldt has launched a new nonprofit, through which it purchased this 1923 Craftsman home at 902 E Street in Eureka.
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Press release from First 5 Humboldt:
Eureka, CA – First 5 Humboldt has created a new nonprofit, the Humboldt Children and Families Foundation, to support their programs as the dedicated state funding for First 5’s continues to dramatically decline. The Foundation broadens fundraising opportunities and is part of a strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability of First 5 Humboldt’s work to promote the well-being of children and families.
The Vesper Society, a San Francisco based private foundation, has provided a generous donation of $500,000 to initiate the Foundation’s first endeavor: “The Belonging Project.” The launch of this project includes the purchase of a historic Eureka property [at 902 E Street] that will welcome children and families in a supportive and inclusive space, while also serving as a permanent home for First 5 Humboldt. The Foundation is seeking additional funds to prepare the home and grounds for public use.
“As we enter our tenth year of partnership with First 5 Humboldt, they are poised to create a positive environment where families can practice compassion and kindness, learn about the importance of belonging and connection, and in the process create a vibrant healthy community. First 5 Humboldt was instrumental in raising awareness about Adverse Childhood Experiences and now we are thrilled to support the Belonging Project to further their work in preventing ACEs and promoting resilience.” said Miyoko Oshima, Vesper Society President.
The newly acquired property will provide a warm, family centered environment for services including playgroups, parenting classes, professional trainings, and community gatherings, as well as a permanent home for First 5 Humboldt. The large yard has mature fruit trees with space for outside play, and a planned family-friendly sensory garden. Designed to foster connection, learning, and belonging, the home reflects First 5 Humboldt’s commitment to supporting the whole family and strengthening early childhood systems throughout the county.
“With this new home, we are investing in the future of early childhood in Humboldt County,” said Brian Davis, President of the Humboldt Children and Families Foundation. “We envision a space where families feel welcomed, professionals feel supported, the community can come together in meaningful ways, and First 5 Humboldt has a permanent home.”
“We are so grateful to the Foundation, the Vesper Society, and the community for their support of our work”, said Mary Ann Hansen, First 5 Humboldt Executive Director. “First 5 Humboldt’s core values hold that families are experts on their needs, that they have the strength and insights to be successful, and that often what they most need is to be held and supported in ways that nurture their strengths and connections with each other. The Belonging Project will lay the groundwork for a better future rooted in kindness, connection, and belonging. We are creating a haven that will be here for generations, that purposefully builds a more healthy and caring future.
The Foundation and First 5 Humboldt are currently preparing the space for programming, with community events and open house dates to be announced later this year.
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About First 5 Humboldt
First 5 Humboldt works to improve the health, early learning, and well-being of young children and their families in Humboldt County using evidence-based methods and community engagement.
For more information, go to: www.first5humboldt.org, or call (707) 445-7389
Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:
On July 6, 2026, at approximately 12:16 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a physical assault in the 2300 block of State Highway 96 at the Big Rock Day Use Area in Willow Creek.
While deputies were en route, the Humboldt County Emergency Communications Center received updated information indicating that a male suspect had physically assaulted a male victim near the boat launch.
Upon arrival, deputies contacted the victim and a witness, who reported that the suspect had choked the victim and thrown an ice chest at him. The suspect was identified as 37-year-old Jason Nathaniel Clark of Willow Creek.
Clark, who was known to law enforcement due to prior violent and assaultive behavior toward law enforcement, fled into the Trinity River and climbed onto a large rock in the middle of the river. He refused deputies’ repeated commands to return to shore and surrender. During the incident, Clark made statements threatening to drown deputies if they attempted to approach him.
Additional Sheriff’s deputies, including members of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Division Swiftwater Rescue Team, responded to assist, along with officers from the California Highway Patrol. As Clark’s behavior became increasingly erratic, and he continued to ignore lawful commands, CHP officers deployed less-lethal force using a beanbag shotgun in an effort to gain compliance. While Clark was distracted, members of the Sheriff’s Office Swiftwater Rescue Team safely approached and took him into custody without further incident.
Clark was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, where he was booked on the following charges:
PC 245(a)(1) – Assault with a Deadly Weapon
PC 69(a) – Resisting or Obstructing an Executive Officer
PC 12022.1 – Commission of a Felony While Released on Bail
No serious injuries were reported during the incident.
At the time of his arrest, Clark was out on bail in connection with a separate case involving the assault of a law enforcement officer. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere appreciation to the California Highway Patrol for their assistance in this case.
Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Crime Tip Line at (707) 268-2539.
On July 6 at approximately 2:30 a.m., Petrolia Fire Engine 6632, Engine 6646, and Rescue 6674 responded to a vehicle accident alongside Cal Fire Engine 1262, Battalion 1213, Southern Humboldt Technical Rescue, Honeydew Fire 6549, the California Highway Patrol, and City Ambulance.
Upon arrival, crews discovered a vehicle that had gone over the embankment and was submerged in the river. Three victims were located alongside the river. Once access to the river was established, firefighters assessed the scene and immediately began CPR on two of the patients while another crew worked to stabilize the third.
When City Ambulance arrived, crews loaded the surviving patient onto a backboard, and firefighters worked together to carry the patient up the steep embankment to the awaiting ambulance. Tragically, the other two patients were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Incidents like this are a sobering reminder of how unforgiving rural mountain roads can be, especially during the late night and early morning hours. Limited visibility, winding roads, steep embankments, and fatigue can quickly turn a routine drive into a life-threatening situation.
Whether you’re heading home after a long day or traveling through unfamiliar areas, slowing down, staying alert, wearing your seat belt, and never driving while impaired or fatigued can make all the difference.
The level of coordination, professionalism, compassion, and care demonstrated by every agency involved during such a tragic incident was truly remarkable. It is an honor to serve alongside dedicated first responders who work tirelessly under the most difficult circumstances. Our thoughts are with the victims, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident.
With the heaviest sorrow we announce that Aaron Ryan Pole started his journey beyond this physical life on May 11th 2026.
Aaron Ryan was a bright, radiant light from the very beginning. He entered this world on January 18, 2005 at 12:15 a.m. to proud parents Paloma and Aaron Pole. He was welcomed by his two older sisters, Ariana and Lelencia, and large families on both sides with loving grandparents, aunties, uncles, and so many cousins.
From the very beginning he was full of rambunctious energy, doing somersaults in his mom’s stomach, putting knots in his umbilical cord, and walking early at eight months old, then running! From toddlerhood on he could often be seen running around barefoot, sporting a bruise on his forehead or scraped knees and elbows from his adventures.
Aaron Ryan was always such a sweet boy, happy-go-lucky with the most distinctive laugh. His dad loved his little giggle so much to the point that he recorded it and set it as a ringtone. From the moment he was brought home his big sisters had an immense love for him, giving him his long-standing nickname of Cháas, meaning little brother in Karuk.
He loved to crawl all over his oldest sister, Ariana. She would get so mad and try and whack him away but at some point it became a game for them, and from then on Ariana always tried her best to keep her little brother in line and make sure he was staying safe. For his big sister Lenci, he was and will forever be her memory keeper.
Beloved by his cousins, he was the bottom of every dogpile at family gatherings, instigator of nerf gun battles, and a piñata candy enthusiast. As a young man, he continued to make time to play with the little ones, and he and the babies shared a mutual love.
Adored by grandparents, aunts, uncles, he was and forever will be all of our baby boy. He was always there to help, from cutting wood for Grandpa, cleaning mushrooms with his uncles, helping his aunties move, preparing for ceremonies and so much more. As for Aaron Ryan, the deep love he had for his parents, sisters, and family was evident, a defining trait, and he was fiercely loyal and protective of them.
He will forever be remembered for his many strengths, interests, quirks, and talents and his sweet, humble nature. Aaron Ryan was an animal lover since childhood, and even bottle-fed his dog Max as a puppy. He never encountered a kitten he didn’t pick up and carry around, including Orleans housing strays, and one of the few times he was seen yelling at a dog to chase it off the road to keep it safe.
Aaron Ryan developed a love for food and cooking from a young age, and he could be seen frying himself an egg at just five years old and sneaking sweet treats any chance he got. As a young adult, he boldly tried new recipes and flavor combinations (not all of them were hits), already had some signature dishes such as his delicious homemade garlic vinaigrette dressing, and possessed some keen knife skills for an amateur home chef. He was always willing to teach these skills to his young cousins or cook things he knew would bring joy to his loved ones. This was especially true for his mom, who he would buy groceries for and prepare special meals that she requested.
Perhaps most poignant was Aaron Ryan’s deep compassion and huge capacity for love, not only for his family and friends, but the world, and he was such a thoughtful mind and deep thinker. As Aaron Ryan grew into teenhood and young adulthood, he retreated more into himself as teenagers often do, but he also expanded his creative life and worldview. He thought very deeply about the world and the people that live in it, and took it upon himself to learn about culture, politics, music, the arts, and more.
Aaron Ryan was never afraid to stand up for what was right, or to stand up for others, whether face-to-face or online. He could often be found in his room, with his Palestinian flag hanging on the wall and wearing his keffiyah scarf, arguing with strangers on the internet regarding the genocide of Palestinian people and the horrific events happening around the world. He had a vast and diverse song rotation inspired by his family including his dad and the Pole family, all talented musicians, and his long drives with his Kúut (Grandpa David) where he received many music history and rhythm theory lessons.
Aaron Ryan attended Trinity Valley Elementary and Orleans Elementary Schools, graduating from OES in 2019, then moving onto Hoopa Valley High School, and finally graduating from Captain John High School in 2023. He worked hard throughout to improve his foundational skills (not always without complaint) thanks to the hard work and lasting influence and impact made by the teachers and staff (including his Kíit Grandma Jan at OES and at home) and he formed some friendships that meant a great deal to him.
In his short adult life, Aaron Ryan had few opportunities for professional ventures, but some standouts include his time at the Osprey Cafe in Willow Creek right out of high school thru the DreamQuest Step Up Program where he started out doing dishwashing and cleaning, and then eventually grew to help with food prep as well.
He also worked with his mom at the Trinity River Farms in Willow Creek, and then worked at the Salmon River Outpost store in Somes Bar, doing a little bit of everything. However, his first full-time year-round job, and the one he was most proud of and passionate about, was his current position with the Karuk Tribe working for the K1 Fire Crew. He was proud of his work, and felt honored to be learning skills in both wildland firefighting, as well as prescribed and cultural burning.
He really enjoyed getting to know and spending time with his K1 crew members, and loved that he also got the chance to travel and work in beautiful new places. They made many memories together in just over a year together, from him accidentally ordering too much pizza and then helping him eat it for days on end, to him doing his first fire pack test wearing his signature Crocs. The family is so grateful that his crew members took him under their wing, and shared happy times together in the last year of his much too short life, including taking him eeling and sharing time with him processing traditional foods off work hours, which meant a lot to him and filled him with pride and joy. Yôotva (Thank you).
He was abundantly loved by so many people and left a grand impression on even people he would casually cross paths with. Thank you to every single person that showed him love and care throughout his life. There are so many more things to say, but these are just a few of them…
Aaron Ryan is survived by his loving parents Paloma and Aaron Pole, and sisters Ariana and Lelencia; his maternal grandparents David and Jan Tripp; maternal aunts and uncles Hector Tripp, Levi Tripp (Karrie), Monica Tripp (Joe Hostler), Emilio Tripp (Tanna), Analisa Tripp (Michael Sanchez) and Francisca Tripp (Jacob Ford); his maternal first cousins Ish-Kaysh Tripp, Rebecca Robinson, Hazel Tripp, Levi Tripp, Violet Tripp, Florence Tripp, Quill Tripp, Tey-met-tret Hostler, Mahiitahaan Hostler, Andalin Hostler, Naa-din-nus Hostler, Tahsa Tripp, Aatishipaan Tripp, Axel Tripp, Akúnvaan Sanchez, David Ugarte, Lilia Ugarte and Lynx Ugarte; his paternal grandparents Virgil Pole and Norma McCardie; paternal uncles and aunts Virgil Jr. Pole, Amos Pole (Kimberly), Nathan Pole, Stevie Pole, Spencer Lewis, Oscar Pole, Farron Pole (Jasmin), Mykel Pole; his paternal first cousins Stephanie Pole, Carmen Marshall, Juliana Pole, Virgil Pole III, Johnny Pole, Margaret Pole, Sequoia Hauck, Damien Scott, Natia Pole, Makailee Scott, Syliss Pole, Makenzie Scott, Lizzy Pole, Kahlil David, Keget Banning, K’oo’y Banning, Kini’ Banning, Collin Pole, and Viola Pole. There are far too many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and loved ones to name but know that he held everyone close to his heart.
As we continue to learn how to live without him in this physical, we hold close our memories of our precious boy, our gentle and kind and strong young man. Our lives are forever changed because of him and our loss of him. xa’gya’ne’; Safe travels, Aaron Ryan. ithváaykam ip’áhooti; Keep Moving Forward.
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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Aaron Ryan Pole’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.
