By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
On Saturday, May 31, 2025, at approximately 9:09 p.m., Sheriff’s Dispatch received multiple calls stating a female may have been murdered at a residence in the 12000 block of Sisar Road in the unincorporated area of Santa Paula. When Fillmore deputies arrived, they confirmed there was a deceased female in the residence and evidence at the scene indicated she was a victim of a homicide. Investigators with the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau assumed responsibility for the investigation and quickly identified Christian Hillairet as a person of interest. On June 4, 2025, the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau sent a contingent of investigators and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agent to the San Ysidro border crossing. Mexican authorities released custody of Hillairet into the control of the U.S. Marshals Service who in turn released Hillairet to Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Investigators. Prepared by: Detective Michael Marco *** Ojai Handyman Charged with Two Ventura County Murders VENTURA, Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Christian Alexandre Hillairet (DOB 09/02/99), of Ojai, has been charged with two counts of murder for the May 2025 killing of Carolyn Nino De Rivera and the 2023 death of William Thompson, a City of Ventura resident. Prosecutors have filed several special allegations against Hillairet, including commission of more than one murder, use of a deadly weapon, and a strike prior. On May 31, 2025, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a residence in the unincorporated area of Santa Paula following multiple reports of a possible homicide. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a deceased woman inside the home and determined she was the victim of a homicide. Sheriff’s Office detectives quickly identified Christian Hillairet as a person of interest in the case. On June 1, 2025, they learned he had crossed into Mexico through the San Ysidro border. With help from federal agencies, he was found and arrested the next day in Rosarito, Baja California. On June 4, 2025, Ventura County detectives and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent met Mexican authorities at the San Ysidro border, where Hillairet was transferred to the custody of the During the investigation, detectives with the Sheriff’s Office and the Ventura Police Department obtained information that linked Hillairet to a second alleged murder involving the death of William Thompson, in the City of Ventura on November 3, 2023. Thompson was allegedly bludgeoned to death with a weapon. “The defendant’s alleged actions reflect a chilling pattern of violence and cruelty,” District Attorney Nasarenko said. “Our office is committed to securing justice for these victims and prosecuting Hillairet to the fullest extent of the law.” Senior Deputy District Attorney Theresa Pollara, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Major Crimes Homicide Unit, is prosecuting the case. Hillairet is scheduled to make his first appearance in on Friday June 6, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 13 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He remains in custody without the possibility for bail. Case: 2025013878 |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
![]() On Friday, June 6th, around 1:30 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Ventura County Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a vehicle vs. E-bike collision at Domino’s Pizza. The biker sustained minor injuries; no hospital transportations were made. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo ![]() On Thursday, June 5th, at 9:23 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a car vs. E-Bike incident in the 200 block of Central Avenue. The rider was taken to a local hospital; his condition is unknown. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
On 04/15/2025, at about 2:22 P.M., deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 400 block of Mountain View Street in Fillmore reference several individuals fighting. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male suffering from a stab wound. The victim was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for medical care. Additionally, a second victim suffering from a stab wound arrived at the Fillmore Police Station seeking emergency medical assistance. That person was also transported via ambulance to a local hospital for medical care. On 05/29/2025, detectives and patrol personnel contacted and arrested 18-year-old (S) Brayan Alvarez for Penal Code § 664/187 – [Attempt Murder] and Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang] for his involvement with the stabbing. He was transported to the Main Jail, where he was booked pending court proceedings. The District Attorney’s Office opted to charge Alvarez with Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a deadly weapon]. Alvarez remains in custody Shortly after Hernandez’s arrest, detectives located (S) Manuel Rodriguez nearby and arrested him for Penal Code § 32 – [Accessory After the Fact] for his involvement with the stabbing. Both Hernandez and Rodriguez were transported to the Main Jail, where they were booked pending court proceedings. Any person with information regarding the stabbing 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/25-4... or by scanning 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 against 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 *** 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). |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
![]() On Thursday, June 5th, Fillmore High School held its 2025 Graduation Ceremony at 7pm. The event began with students riding on buses to the football stadium, where they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. Above is the beginning of the ceremony with all standing for the National Anthem/Pledge of Allegiance. Inset, Fillmore High School Class of 2025 celebrating by throwing streamers in the air. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
![]() On Wednesday, June 4th, Fillmore’s Sierra High and Heritage Valley Independent Study hosted their 2025 Graduation Ceremony at the Fillmore Unified School District Auditorium. From 6pm to 8pm students walked across the stage to get their well-deserved diplomas as their families cheered them on. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
![]() On Monday, June 9th, at 3:25 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a vehicle-bike collision in front of the Fillmore Police Station. The bicyclist was sent to a local hospital in unknown condition. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 2025 AGENDA: All items passed with 5-0 vote. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. PRESENTATIONS 5.A FILLMORE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASEBALL TEAM CIF CHAMPIONSHIP RECOGNITION 5.B FILLMORE MIDDLE SCHOOL 8TH GRADE GIRLS SOCCER TEAM LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP RECOGNITION 5.C PROCLAMATION PROCLAIMING JUNE 2025 AS LGBTQ+PRIDE MONTH 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS 7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, COMMENTS, COMMITEE, COMMISSION AND BOARD REPORTS 8. CONSENT CALENDAR 8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JUNE 10, 2025 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JUNE 10, 2025.PDF 8.B CONSIDERATION OF ACCEPTANCE OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS FOR KB HOME CITRUS GROVE DEVELOPMENT 8.C SECOND READING TO ADOPT ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT 24- 8.D APPROVAL OF CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR 2025-26 8.E FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE FILLMORE FIRE HOUSE ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT WITH SESPE ROOFING COMPANY SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR FILLMORE FIRE HOUSE ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECT. FINAL.PDF 8.F AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE A NEW PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT VEHICLE 8.G CONSIDERATION OF FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE JOINT AGREEMENT FOR OPERATIONAL FUNDING OF THE SPIRIT OF SANTA PAULA HARVARD SHELTER 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.A REINTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 25-985 GRANTING A NONEXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TO CRIMSON PIPELINE, LP FOR EXISTING HYDROCARBON PIPELINE 9.B ADOPTION OF CITY RESOLUTION 25-4078 ESTABLISIHING THE GANN APPROPRIATION LIMIT FOR FY 2025-26 9.C RESOLUTION NO. 25-4077 APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 PROJECT LIST TO BE FUNDED BY THE ROAD REPAIR AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2017 9.D APPROVAL AND AUTHORIZATION OF A CONTRACT SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH SOCAL WATER PRO FOR CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL PROGRAM AND BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLES MANAGEMENT 9.E APPROVAL OF PROPOSED YEAR-END BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR END 2024-25 9.F AUTHORIZE THE ACTING CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE CONTRACTS WITH TWO SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM FOOD SERVICES VENDORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026 10. CITY MANAGER 11. CLOSED SESSION 11.A JUNE 10, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION JUNE 10, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF 12. ADJOURNMENT |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with 7-Eleven, Inc. in the 30th consecutive year of “Operation Chill®.” The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and 7-Eleven want to reward local kids through the company’s community outreach program. This summer, as our deputies patrol neighborhoods, they will keep an eye out for youth doing great things. Some acts include; kids wearing safety helmets while riding a bike or skateboard, kids observing safety rules while crossing the street, kids participating in positive activities, kids holding the door open for someone, kids picking up trash, or kids helping someone in need. If observed, our deputies and professional staff, at any of our stations in the county, will make a positive contact with the youth and issue an Operation Chill coupon. The coupons can be redeemed for a free small Slurpee drink at any participating 7-Eleven®, Speedway®, or Stripes® store. This year, 7-Eleven will issue nearly 640,000 coupons to more than 1,300 participating law enforcement agencies across the country, including the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. “Operation Chill is more than just a free Slurpee drink coupon – it reinforces the power of small gestures to build big relationships,” said Marissa Jarratt, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing & Sustainability Officer at 7-Eleven, Inc The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office looks forward to recognizing the good deeds being done by the youth in our communities daily. We have a lot of great kids in our communities and we have a lot of Slurpee coupons to hand out to keep encouraging them to become great citizens. This program allows us to continue to build trust and relationships with the communities we serve. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Prepared by: Sergeant Thomas Miller |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 13th, 2025
![]() This past weekend HBO MAX began filming their new series “Latitude” in Piru, which has given downtown Piru a makeover. Above are some movie sets which were built/converted for the HBO MAX series. Sets are schedule to be removed starting June 10th-20th. For more information visit https://filminginpiru.com/hbo-latitude-2025/. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
![]() It has become a tradition at Fillmore Unified School District for graduating seniors to return to where their education began and say thank you to their former elementary schools. Students from the graduating Class of 2025 visited San Cayetano Elementary, Piru Elementary, Mountain Vista Elementary, and Rio Vista Elementary. Congratulations Class of 2025 on all of your accomplishments! Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/1/fillmore-high-seniors-elementary-school-flashback. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
![]() On Tuesday, May 27th, at 5:26 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, Ventura County Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics were on-scene investigating multiple vehicle’s involved in a collision at the intersection of Ventura Street and Mountain View Street. Arriving firefighters reported five vehicles involved, including one vehicle on its roof. The driver in the overturned vehicle was arrested for DUI. Minor injuries were reported. The crash scene caused traffic on Ventura Street to back up for several hours. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
![]() On Saturday, May 31th, 2025, Fillmore Flashes Boys Varsity Baseball team won a come-from-behind 7-6 victory in extra innings over the Pioneer High Titans at Blair Field in Long Beach, California. In the bottom of the 8th inning, a successful bunt from Adrian Magana allowed Thomas Alamillo to score the winning run to bring home Flashes Baseball’s 6th CIF Championship! Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/5/31/flashes-baseball-win-2025-cif-championship-extra-innings-game-7-6-celebration-today-may-31-2025-at-central-station-at-3pm. Enlarge Photo |
![]() Pictured above is the Fillmore Fire Academy First Yoga For First Responders® Class of 2025. Back row (l-r): Groeneveld, Caron, Seckman, Martinez, Gomez, and Lisa Hammond (YFFR instructor). Front row (l-r): Wilcox, Arias, McCourt, Medina, and Sheppard. Photo credit Lisa Hammond. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
by Lisa Hammond Ten recruits at Fillmore Fire Academy recently completed a 16-week, research-backed curriculum from YogaShield® Yoga For First Responders® (YFFR), marking the first time this full program has been implemented in a fire academy in Ventura County. YFFR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with instructors worldwide. Meeting most Sundays—and some Saturdays during their 4-month Academy—at 7 a.m., the recruits participated in 16 one-hour sessions focused on processing stress, building resilience, and enhancing performance. Each class consisted of four key components that correspond to traditional yoga practices but are tailored specifically for first responders: tactical breath work, physical drills, neurological reset, and cognitive declarations. “This curriculum gives first responders tools they can use throughout their careers, both on and off duty, from recruitment through retirement,” said Lisa Hammond, the certified YFFR instructor who taught the course. She also oversees YFFR’s Virtual Instructor School. “And the best part—no yoga experience is required to get started.” Grounded in neuroscience, the YFFR program is designed to meet the physical and psychological demands of high-stress careers. It has gained national and international recognition and has been adapted not only for fire service and law enforcement, but also for military personnel, medical professionals—and really, anyone facing stress in their daily lives. For more information about Yoga For First Responders, visit www.yogaforfirstresponders.org or contact Lisa Hammond directly at lisa@yogaforfirstresponders.org. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
On 05/31/25, at approximately 9:09 p.m., Sheriff’s Dispatch received multiple calls stating a female may have been murdered at a residence in the 12000 block of Sisar Road in the unincorporated area of Santa Paula. When deputies arrived, they confirmed there was a deceased female in the residence and evidence at the scene indicated she was a victim of a homicide. Investigators with the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau assumed responsibility for the investigation and are actively investigating the incident as a homicide. The incident appears to be isolated, and a suspect is currently outstanding. Investigators are requesting anyone with information related to the investigation to contact Detective Marco at 805-384-4739. Nature of Incident: Homicide Investigation Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit, Fillmore Police Department, Ojai Police Department, Sheriff’s Crime Scene Investigations Unit, Sheriff’s West County Special Enforcement Unit and Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office (S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent (V) Adult Female Santa Paula 26 Prepared by: Sergeant William Meixner |
![]() Pictured (l-r) are Brandy Hollis (Vice Chair of the Fillmore Art and Recreation Commission and Vice President of the Fillmore Women’s Service Club), Danielle Quintana (President of the Fillmore Women’s Service Club), Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez (Chair of the Fillmore Cultural Art and Recreation Commission), and Greg Agostinelli (Fillmore Cultural Arts and Recreation Commissioner). Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
Courtesy Brandy Hollis On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, returning Fillmore Women’s Service Club President Danielle Quintana presented the Fillmore Cultural Arts and Recreation Commission with a check for $600 in sponsorship for the second consecutive year. This sponsorship will help fund the city’s music series, which is set to commence after the Fair for Fun, Family-Friendly Fridays in the Park. The event promises to feature live music and food trucks, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees. For more information, please visit the city website. Fillmore Women’s Service Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the entire community of Fillmore, is actively involved in various activities. For the latest updates and details, follow them on social media. The photo above showcases the attendees, including Brandy Hollis (Vice Chair of the Fillmore Art and Recreation Commission and Vice President of the Fillmore Women’s Service Club), Danielle Quintana (President of the Fillmore Women’s Service Club), Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez (Chair of the Fillmore Cultural Art and Recreation Commission), and Greg Agostinelli (Fillmore Cultural Arts and Recreation Commissioner). |
![]() At last week’s Fillmore Rotary meeting 13 students received scholarships from Fillmore Rotary Club: Destiny Juarez, Ruby Guerrero, Renaldo Tapia, Aerin Garcia, Daniela Curiel, Diana Martinez, Luz Castaneda, Diana Santa Rosa, Jonathan Perez, Presley McLain, Adrian Fuentes, Justin Contreras, and Ignacio Arenas. Photo credit Martha Richardson. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 6th, 2025
The Rotary Club of Fillmore presented scholarships to 13 students amounting to $10,600. The students were: Destiny Juarez, Ruby Guerrero, Renaldo Tapia, Aerin Garcia, Daniela Curiel, Diana Martinez, Luz Castaneda, Diana Santa Rosa, Jonathan Perez, Presley McLain, Adrian Fuentes, Justin Contreras, and Ignacio Arenas. Also, Presley McLain received the Rigo Landeros Scholarship, Diana Martinez received the Ari Larsen Scholarship and Diana Santa Rosa received the Don Gunderson Scholarship. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, May 31st, 2025
![]() Fillmore’s Rite Aid is closing. Rite Aid is in the process of closing stores as part of its second Chapter 11 filing under bankruptcy protection on May 5th, 2025. The company has been closing stores for years and is now planning to wind down operations at many of its remaining locations. This includes selling off assets, including prescription files and inventory, while shutting down distribution centers and store locations. Stores in Santa Barbara and Goleta have been independently purchased and will remain open. Rite Aid has indicated that a majority of its stores will remain open for only a few months. Pharmacy customers will be given a 30 to 45 day notice regarding prescriptions. Photo credit Gazette Staff. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, May 31st, 2025
![]() On Monday, May 26th, 2025, Bardsdale Cemetery held its annual Memorial Day Service. At 11am the public was invited to honor those who sacrificed their lives in service to our country. This year’s speaker was local resident Chris Gurrola, son of local residents Tim and Amy Gurrola. Also, the Rt. Rev. Bishop Ordinary Robert Hammond spoke. Music was provided by local resident Greg Agostinelli and Robin Shelnut. The local VFW Post 9637 and Boy Scouts assisted with the program which started with a fly-over by David Vanoni, David Swett, Kurt Young and Eric Johnson. Taps was performed at the end of the program by board member Bill Morris. Water and cookies were provided after the service. Photo credit Lisa Hammond. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, May 31st, 2025
![]() On Thursday, May 22nd, at 7:01 p.m., Ventura County Sheriff’s, Fillmore City Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics were dispatched to a two-car collision on Old Telegraph Road and Hume Drive. Arriving firefighters reported two vehicles involved with minor injuries. Cause of the crash is under investigation by the Fillmore Police Department. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, May 31st, 2025
![]() At last week’s Fillmore Rotary meeting Rotarian Kelli Couse introduced six Fillmore High School students who will join the military following graduation. She presented military sashes to Destiny Tellez-Air Force, Brandon Castillo-Air Force, James Torres-Marines, Alonso Estrada-Army Reserve, Ian Nunez-Army and Nick Enriquez-Air Force. The students’ parents, grandparents and siblings were there for this special day. Photo credit Martha Richardson. Enlarge Photo |
