Above is evidence recovered by police during their investigation. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Above is evidence recovered by police during their investigation. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
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On 06/12/2026, (S) Patrick Hollowell, of Homeland, age 46, was found to be in possession of a controlled substance for sales and two loaded firearms. He was arrested for several felony weapons and drug related offenses.
On 06/11/2026, during the early morning hours, patrol deputies from the Fillmore station responded to the Lake Piru Campground located at 4780 Piru Canyon Road reference a domestic disturbance. This area is in the quiet, unincorporated community east of Fillmore known as Piru. Ultimately, deputies contacted parties involved and were unable to establish a crime.
The Fillmore detectives were briefed on the incident and opened an investigation into the parties involved in the disturbance. As a result of their investigation, a search warrant was obtained for the parties, which included (S) Patrick Hollowell, a 46-year-old resident of Homeland California, his girlfriend, and their motorhome.
On 06/12/2026, at about 7:55 AM, deputies from Fillmore patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, and Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit executed the search warrant at the motorhome which was parked at the Lake Piru Campground. The search resulted in the seizure of a loaded shotgun, loaded .45 caliber handgun, and over a quarter of a pound of methamphetamine.
Ultimately, Hollowell was arrested for felony violations of Health & Safety Code § 11370.1(a) – [Possession of a Controlled Substance While Armed with a Firearm], Penal Code § 27545 – [Unlawful Firearm Transfer], Penal Code § 23900 – [Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number], Health & Safety Code § 11378 – [Possession for Sales of a Controlled Substance].
Hollowell was transported to the Sheriff’s Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked pending court proceedings.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 06/12/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Subject Arrested for Firearm & Drug Related Offenses
Report Number: 26-74603
Location: Lake Piru Campground
Date & Time: 06/12/2026 @ 7:55 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age
(S) Patrick Hollowell, Homeland, 46

 


 
On Tuesday, June 16, at 1:56 p.m., the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Ventura County Fire Department were dispatched to reported smoke showing in the area of Ventura Street at Riverside Avenue in the Bardsdale. Arriving firefighters found a pile of slow burning mulch and were able to set up containment. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Tuesday, June 16, at 1:56 p.m., the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Ventura County Fire Department were dispatched to reported smoke showing in the area of Ventura Street at Riverside Avenue in the Bardsdale. Arriving firefighters found a pile of slow burning mulch and were able to set up containment. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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Any person with information regarding the incident is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the QR code above.
Any person with information regarding the incident is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the QR code above.

On 06/15/2026, at about 12:01 PM, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 700 block of Balden Lane in Fillmore reference a domestic disturbance.
Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male suffering from head injuries. Over the course of the investigation, it was determined (S) Gonzalo Miranda, a 25-year-old Fillmore resident and gang member, assaulted the 21-year-old Fillmore victim causing serious bodily injury. The victim was transported and treated at a local hospital.
As a result of the investigation, Miranda was arrested for violations of Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon] and Penal Code § 243(d) – [Battery with Serious Bodily Injury]. He was transported to the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked pending court proceedings.
Detectives are actively investigating this felonious assault and are asking for the public’s assistance for any information regarding the incident. Anyone with information about the stabbing is asked to contact Detective Axel Morales at (805) 477-7011. Tips can also be submitted through Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477), where callers can remain anonymous.
Any person with information regarding the incident is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the link or QR code provided below to download and submit any video footage of the incident.
https://venturasheriffca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26-7... or by scanning the following QR code pictured right.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 06/16/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO 1
***
Nature of Incident: Felony Assault Investigation
Report Number: 26-76682
Location: 700 block of Balden Lane, Fillmore
Date & Time: 06/15/2026, 12:01 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age
(V) Adult Male, Fillmore, 21
(S) Gonzalo Miranda, Fillmore, 25
***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

 


 

Fillmore, CA — The City of Fillmore, in partnership with the Fillmore Fire Department, is reminding residents and visitors to celebrate safely and responsibly during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
City of Fillmore Fireworks Show Information:
The City of Fillmore will host a professional fireworks display on Wednesday, July 3, at 9:00 PM. The fireworks display will be launched from the grassy field at Fillmore Middle School, located at 543 A Street, Fillmore, CA. Community members are encouraged to enjoy the show.
Fillmore Fireworks Sales Information:
Fillmore is the only city in Ventura County where the sale and discharge of California State Fire Marshal-approved “Safe & Sane Fireworks” is legal. The sale and discharge of Safe & Sane Fireworks is permitted beginning June 28 at 12:00 PM through July 5 at 12:00 PM. All fireworks purchased must be discharged within the city limits of the City of Fillmore.
Safe & Sane Fireworks may be purchased at fireworks booths located along State Route126. All fireworks booths are operated by local 501(c)(3) registered charitable organizations, helping support community programs and services. The City and Fillmore Fire Department remind the public that illegal fireworks are strictly prohibited. Fireworks commonly known as mortars, aerial shells, firecrackers, M-80s/M-100s, cherry bombs, bottle rockets, and Roman candles are not California State Fire Marshal-approved Safe & Sane Fireworks. These fireworks are illegal to sell, purchase, transport, or discharge in the State of California, including within the City of Fillmore 4th of July Sespe Creek Car Show Information:
On Thursday, July 4, the Sespe Creek Car Club will host the 40th Annual Sespe Creek Fourth of July Car Show from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in Downtown Fillmore. The event will feature a car show, chili cook-off, cornhole and horseshoe tournament, live music, and more. To learn more, follow Sespe Creek at @SespeCreekCarShow on Facebook and Instagram.
Firework Safety Information *IMPORTANT*
To help keep the community safe, residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips:
• Only use California State Fire Marshal-approved Safe & Sane Fireworks.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Do not hold lighted fireworks in your hand.
• Never light fireworks indoors.
• Only use fireworks away from homes, vehicles, people, and flammable material.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Do not ignite fireworks in containers.
• Do not try to re-light or handle or handle malfunctioning fireworks, place in water after 15 minutes.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to soak spent fireworks for disposal or in case of fire.
• Do not put hot fireworks into garbage receptacles.
• All receptacles containing used and spent fireworks should not be located inside garages or touching exterior walls.
• Report any unsafe acts or illegal fireworks activity at 805-524-1500 ext 350
Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow the City of Fillmore on social media for additional updates regarding Fourth of July activities, public safety information, and community reminders.
***
Released: June 12, 2026
Press Release Prepared by: Angel Garcia, Sr. Management Analyst
Follow the City of Fillmore on Instagram @cityoffillmore, Facebook: City of Fillmore.

 
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge, lower left, said, "It was a beautiful afternoon to celebrate our 8th grade promoters at Fillmore Middle School. Thank you to the teachers and staff who make this a wonderful ceremony. Good luck to all of our future Flashes!”
Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge, lower left, said, "It was a beautiful afternoon to celebrate our 8th grade promoters at Fillmore Middle School. Thank you to the teachers and staff who make this a wonderful ceremony. Good luck to all of our future Flashes!”
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Heritage Valley Independent Studies Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Heritage Valley Independent Study proudly celebrated the promotion of 14 outstanding students as they completed their middle school journey and prepared to take the next step into high school. A special thank you to our families, whose support and encouragement have played an important role in our students’ success. We would also like to recognize our dedicated teachers, Ms. Dann and Ms. W, for their commitment to helping students learn and grow. Congratulations to the Heritage Valley Independent Study Promoting Class!”
Heritage Valley Independent Studies Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Heritage Valley Independent Study proudly celebrated the promotion of 14 outstanding students as they completed their middle school journey and prepared to take the next step into high school. A special thank you to our families, whose support and encouragement have played an important role in our students’ success. We would also like to recognize our dedicated teachers, Ms. Dann and Ms. W, for their commitment to helping students learn and grow. Congratulations to the Heritage Valley Independent Study Promoting Class!”
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The 400-pound male black bear who had become a regular visitor to Fillmore in recent months was struck by a car and killed on Friday night, June 5th, 2026. The car received major damage, passengers were unhurt. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
The 400-pound male black bear who had become a regular visitor to Fillmore in recent months was struck by a car and killed on Friday night, June 5th, 2026. The car received major damage, passengers were unhurt. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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At approximately 10 p.m. on Friday, June 5, the California Highway Patrol responded to calls of a bear struck by a vehicle on Highway 126 at Trestle Way, Fillmore.
A Dodge Charger received major damages; the passengers of the vehicle had minor injuries and were not transported.
The black bear was deceased from the crash when the Fillmore Fire Department arrived, according to Chief Keith Gurrola. The bear had a tag and a collar on him, and Gurrola recognized him instantly from his broken jaw.
The older black bear, a male, was “really heavy” and weighed “over 400 pounds” and his body was lying in the middle of eastbound Highway 126, Gurrola said. The bear needed to be moved to let traffic through and was dragged off the road by four firefighters.
The California Department of Transportation arrived and took the bear’s remains to the nearby Fillmore Fish Hatchery belonging to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The bear had visited Fillmore at least four times in the last couple of months, usually leaving on its own, though it had to be tranquilized back on April 1st when it was spotted in the 800 block of 4th Street. He was examined and he was deemed healthy aside from a few missing teeth. The bear was tagged, collared, and released into the hills north of Fillmore, before returning to the Two Rivers Park area a week ago, and finally Highway 126 on Friday night.

 
On Thursday, June 4, at 7pm, Fillmore High School held its 2026 Graduation Ceremony at the FHS Football Stadium. Family and friends filled the bleachers to gather in celebration of this year’s graduates. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Thursday, June 4, at 7pm, Fillmore High School held its 2026 Graduation Ceremony at the FHS Football Stadium. Family and friends filled the bleachers to gather in celebration of this year’s graduates. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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Fillmore High School’s graduating Class of 2026 entered the football field to Pomp and Circumstance (courtesy FHS Band led by Greg Godfrey) on Thursday night, June 4th, to the roar of a packed crowd of family and friends cheering them on. Arch Bearers were in place as they filed into the stadium and took their seats, marking the end of their 4-year journey, joining the ranks of Fillmore High School Alumni since June 1909. Alejandro Rangel thrilled the crowd with his Jimi Hendrix-style National Anthem, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by ASB President Sabrina Galvez. FHS Principal Cinda Francis welcomed the crowd before three personal messages were delivered by Senior Class President Mia Garcia (“Who Will I Become?”), Valedictorian Christine Nguyen (“How to Grow”), and FHS teacher Salvador Lopez (“Today is the Day”). Seated on the dais were Board of Education members Scott Beylik, Tricia Gradias, Sean Morris, Lucy Rangel, and Olivia Palacio. Mariachi Los Rayos played a senior melody of fantastic, crowd stirring music before the Presentation of Awards by FHS Superintendent Christine Schieferle. Then the big moment came when Presentation of Diplomas was led by counselors Amalia Granados and Dena Wyand. The FHS Band played the school’s Alma Mater, ending with Salutatorian Cassandra Mendoza leading the Tassel Ceremony. The audience then exited the bleachers and spilled onto the field to congratulate and celebrate Fillmore High School’s Class of 2026!!
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Stay tuned next week we will share photos from Fillmore Unified’s Elementary, Middle School and Sierra High/Heritage Valley Independent Studies Promotion Ceremonies.

 
Fillmore Adult School Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Fillmore Adult School proudly celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026. It was an evening dedicated to recognizing the hard work, perseverance, and determination of our graduates. A special thank you to our Fillmore Unified School District leadership team, School Board members, staff, families, and community members who joined us in recognizing this important milestone. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Charles Weis for serving as our guest speaker and sharing his words of encouragement and inspiration with our graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026! Your dedication and determination have brought you to this moment, and we look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future!”
Fillmore Adult School Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Fillmore Adult School proudly celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026. It was an evening dedicated to recognizing the hard work, perseverance, and determination of our graduates. A special thank you to our Fillmore Unified School District leadership team, School Board members, staff, families, and community members who joined us in recognizing this important milestone. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Dr. Charles Weis for serving as our guest speaker and sharing his words of encouragement and inspiration with our graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026! Your dedication and determination have brought you to this moment, and we look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future!”
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Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies proudly celebrated the graduation of their senior class surrounded by family, friends, staff, and community leaders. We were honored to have Superintendent Schieferle, Board President Palacios, trustees, and district leadership in attendance as we recognized our graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!”
Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies proudly celebrated the graduation of their senior class surrounded by family, friends, staff, and community leaders. We were honored to have Superintendent Schieferle, Board President Palacios, trustees, and district leadership in attendance as we recognized our graduates. Congratulations Class of 2026!”
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