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The arson fire at 400 Chambersburg Road required about 30 units, drones and copters to respond to the Santa Clara Riverbed on Sunday. Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez.
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On 06/21/2026, after an extensive investigation, Fillmore resident – Arturo Amaya, age 40, was arrested for Penal Code § 451(a) – [Arson] and Penal Code § 148(a)(1) – [Resist, Obstruct, or Delay a Peace Officer].
On 06/21/2026, at about 1:16 PM, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the Santa Clara River bottom near Gasaway Drive and the A Street bridge reference a brush fire.
Upon arrival, deputies began evacuating people from the nearby encampments. Engines from Fillmore Fire Department and Ventura County Fire Department responded to the area, began fighting the fire, and coordinated water drops from the Ventura County Aviation Unit. While evacuation efforts took place, patrol resources began to gather information as to the cause of the fire and identified (S) Arturo Amaya as a prime suspect. Amaya is a local resident who frequents the river bottom.
After an extensive investigation by patrol personnel, deputies developed probable cause to arrest Amaya for arson. Ultimately, deputies located, detained, and arrested Amaya for arson and delaying deputies in the performance of their duties.
No structures were lost during the brush fire, and the fire burned about 1.5 acres.
Any person with information regarding the arson is encouraged to contact 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
/26-79398 the following QR code:
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: 06/23/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO 1
***
Nature of Incident: Suspect Arrested for Arson
Report Number: 26-79398
Location: Gasaway Drive @ A Street Bridge (riverbed), Fillmore
Date & Time: 06/21/2026, 1:16 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, Ventura County Aviation Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence, Age
(S) Arturo Amaya, Fillmore, 40
***
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).

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On Monday, June 22, 2026, at approximately 1626 hours, a patrol deputy observed a white Toyota truck parked in front of the police station. The driver, a 32-year-old Fillmore resident, was incoherent and appeared to be under the influence. While attempting to communicate with the driver, the deputy observed the driver begin to operate the truck in an unsafe and reckless manner. To ensure the safety of pedestrians and vehicles in the area, deputies deployed a pursuit prevention device, which punctured and deflated the truck’s front tires.
Once the truck was immobilized, the driver was removed from the vehicle and evaluated by paramedics. The driver appeared to be extremely under the influence and admitted to ingesting narcotics.
Based on the investigation, the driver was arrested for multiple violations, including Vehicle Code section 14601.2(a), driving on a suspended license following a prior DUI conviction; Vehicle Code section 23103(a), reckless driving; Vehicle Code section 23152(c), driving while addicted to a drug; and Vehicle Code section 23152(f), driving under the influence of a drug. The driver was medically cleared at a local hospital and subsequently booked into the Pre-Trial Detention.

Photo credit Angel Esquivel
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On Tuesday, June 23, at approximately 1:24 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics responded to a reported E-bike incident at the intersection of Heritage Valley Parkway and Clearwood Street.
Upon arrival, deputies located a juvenile who had sustained injuries as a result of the incident. AMR paramedics provided medical treatment at the scene before transporting the patient to a local hospital for further evaluation.
Safety Reminder: Riders are encouraged to always wear a properly fitted helmet, obey traffic laws, follow posted road signs, and remain alert while operating bicycles and E-bikes. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of serious injury and keep everyone safer on the road.

CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY, & FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL JOINT MEETING TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026, AT 6:00 PM, FILLMORE CITY HALL AT 250 CENTRAL AVENUE FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA 93015
No action was taken by either board, and no votes were cast. The purpose of the meeting was solely to receive and file the items presented on the agenda.
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Approval of the Agenda
5. Presentations
5.A THE SANTA CLARA RIVER CONSERVANCY
SCRC FILLMORE PRESENTATION
6. Public Comments
7. New Business
7.A STRATEGIC FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT GOALS
LET’S TALK ABOUT FUSD
7.B CITY OF FILLMORE DEVELOPMENT UPDATES
SR - DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
7.C PRESENTATION ON AVAILABLE SOFTWARE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TOOLS
AVAILABLE SOFTWARE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
7.D E-BIKE EFFORTS
E-BIKE EFFORTS
8. City Council and Board of Trustees Reports, Recommendations, and Comments
8.A FUTURE COLLABORATION INITIATIVES
8.B FUTURE AGENDA TOPICS AND MEETING DATES
9. Adjournment
Mayor Albert Mendez adjourns to the next City Council regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2026, at City Hall, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015.

BBQ With Badges, sponsored by One Step A La Vez’s Youth Advisory Council, drew a large crowd who enjoyed the good food, games and each other’s company. Ventura County Search & Rescue Team is comprised of highly skilled operators who are available to respond to various emergencies in Ventura County. Team One Fillmore is an all-volunteer branch of the VC Sheriff’s Office covering all of the county including Frazier Park, Hungry Valley, Mt. Pinos and the 43 miles of coastline. Fillmore Police Department showed up with equipment and full gear to display and educate the community. Pictured far right is Fillmore Chief of Police Eduardo Malagon. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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BBQ with Badges was such a great day! From enjoying delicious food from Santa Paula’s Best BBQ to playing games and spending time with local first responders, it was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community.
A huge thank you to One Step A La Vez for hosting this event and inviting us to be a part of it. We also want to thank the Ventura County Sheriff Search & Rescue Team, Ventura County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Ventura County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad, Fillmore City Fire Department, Santa Paula Police Department, and Ventura County Probation Agency for coming out, sharing what you do, and making the day so much fun for everyone.
We loved seeing families, kids, and community members come together, laugh, learn, and make memories. Thank you to everyone who joined us—we’re already looking forward to next year!

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

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.