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On Monday, February 16, at approximately 9:02 a.m., the Ventura County Fire Department, AMR paramedics, the Ventura County Air Unit, and the California Highway Patrol responded to a two‑vehicle collision on westbound SR‑126 near Pyle Road. When firefighters arrived, they found a Ford work truck and a Tesla involved in the crash.
The Tesla’s driver, a 60‑year‑old man, sustained major injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center. A 61‑year‑old woman from Modesto, who was also in the Tesla, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Ford work truck, a 38‑year‑old man from Simi Valley, suffered minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital.
According to a CHP press release, the pair from Modesto had been traveling eastbound on Highway 126 when, for unknown reasons, their vehicle crossed into the westbound lanes. CHP stated that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to be factors in the crash. It was raining at the time, and the roadway was wet.

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On 02/06/2026, at about 10:37 PM, deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 500 block of Santa Clara Street in Fillmore reference an assault with a deadly weapon.
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.
Detectives are actively investigating this stabbing 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 or Detective Dustin Heersche at (805) 524-2233. 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/26-1... 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 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: 02/12/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
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).
***
Nature of Incident: Fillmore Stabbing Investigation
Report Number: 26-17115
Location: 500 block of Santa Clara Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 02/06/2026, 10:37 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Detective Unita
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence; Age
(V) Adult Male, Fillmore
(S) Unknown, Unknown, Unknown

2025 AP School Honor Roll, earning Silver-level recognition
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Fillmore High School has been named to the 2025 AP School Honor Roll, earning Silver-level recognition for its Advanced Placement program’s strong results and broad student participation.
The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results and broadening participation for students. Schools can earn the Honor Roll recognition annually based on criteria that reflects commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. The AP School Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
“This recognition is a tremendous point of pride for our entire district,” said Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle. “I want to thank our Board of Education for their clear direction and unwavering support, and I am deeply grateful to the teachers and administrative staff at Fillmore High School for their dedication to student success and for always putting students first. Most importantly, I congratulate the students of Fillmore High School—this achievement belongs to you and reflects your hard work, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.”
The recognition reflects Fillmore High School’s sustained commitment to academic rigor, student support, and inclusive practices that prepare graduates for postsecondary success. Through intentional counseling, dedicated instruction, and encouragement of broad participation, the school has created an environment where students are challenged academically and supported in reaching their goals. The achievement also highlights the collaborative efforts of the school and the Fillmore Unified School District in prioritizing college readiness and opportunity for all students.
Fillmore High School had 51% of seniors who took at least one AP Exam during high school, 32% of seniors scoring a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam, and 13% of seniors who took five or more AP Exams. The school currently offers 18 AP courses across 23 sections, taught by 16 dedicated teachers.
College Board’s Advanced Placement Program (AP) enables students to pursue college-level studies—with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both—while still in high school. Through AP courses in 40 subjects, each culminating in a challenging exam, students learn to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue—skills that prepare them for college and beyond. Taking AP courses demonstrates to college admissions officers that students have sought the most challenging curriculum available to them, and research indicates that students who score a 3 or higher on an AP Exam typically experience greater academic success in college and are more likely to earn a college degree than non-AP students.

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On Saturday, February 14, at approximately 2:00 a.m., a Fillmore patrol deputy advised dispatch that the unit was attempting to stop a black Nissan Altima. The vehicle failed to yield, and the deputy initiated a pursuit on First Street at A Street. The Altima continued northbound on A Street before coming to a stop at Third Street and Fernglen Circle. The driver was taken into custody and arrested for Stolen Vehicle-PC 496(a), VC 10851(a), and VC 2800.2(a). The driver was later booked into the Ventura County Main Jail. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.

On Friday, February 13, at approximately 4:12 p.m., the Ventura County Fire Department, AMR paramedics, and the California Highway Patrol were dispatched to a reported two‑vehicle crash at Chambersburg Road and Riverside Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters located two vehicles, one fully engulfed in flames. Crews quickly extinguished the fire, and no injuries were reported. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.

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CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2026, 6:30 PM CITY HALL AGENDA
Final Votes:
Item 4: Approval of Agenda - Villasenor motion, Broggie second - passed 5-0
Items 8A-8C: Consent Calendar - Garnica motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
Item 9A: Approval of FY 2026-27 Budget Development Guidelines and Schedule - Garnica motion, Broggie second - passed 5-0
Item 9B: Approval of contract extension with Ventura County Animal Services - Broggie motion, Villasenor - passed 5-0
Item 9C: Authorization of agreement with Arroyo Irrigation to modernize irrigation controllers - Villasenor motion, Broggie second - passed 5-0
Item 9D: Adoption of Ordinance 26-991 to increase City Council salaries - Villasenor motion, Garnica second - passed 5-0
Item 9E: Approval of first amendment to City Manager employment agreement - Garnica motion, Villasenor second - passed 5-0
***
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE 116TH ANNIVERSARY OF SCOUTING AND CUB SCOUT PACK 3406
5.B PROCLAMATION HONORING THE 116TH ANNIVERSARY OF SCOUTING AND SCOUTING AMERICA TROOP 406
5.C PROCLAMATION BLACK HISTORY MONTH
5.D PRESENTATION ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS
5.E UPDATE ON COMMUNICATIONS ENGAGEMENT AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH
SR COMMUNICATION EFFORTS REPORT.PDF
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, COMMENTS, COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDATION FOR ITEM 8.A THROUGH 8.C IS TO APPROVE BY VOICE VOTE.
8.A JANUARY 13, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 13, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.PDF
8.B JANUARY 27, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.PDF
8.C CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-FEBRUARY 10, 2026
CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-FEBRUARY 10, 2026.PDF
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.A FY 2026-27 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES AND SCHEDULE SR -FY 2026-27 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW SCHEDULE FINAL.PDF
9.B APPROVAL OF 2026-2027 SERVICE LEVEL REQUEST AND ONE YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION WITH VENTURA COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES SR 2026 VCAS.PDF
9.C AUTHORIZATION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH ARROYO IRRIGATION TO ASSIST IN THE MODERNIZATION OF IRRIGATION CONTROLLERS CITYWIDE. 
SR - APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH ARROYO IRRIGATION FOR THE IRRIGATION MODERNIZATION PROJECT. FINAL.PDF
9.D ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-991: INCREASING CITY COUNCIL SALARIES
SR - SB 329 SALARY INCREASE 1ST READING(2085829.3).PDF
9.E FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE 2025 CITY MANAGER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF FILLMORE & ERIKA HERRERA FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE 2025 CITY MANAGER EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT.PDF
10. CITY MANAGER
CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT
- WELL 10 UPDATE
- C STREET CLOSURE AND SEWER INFRAESTRUCTURE WORK
- STATUS UPDATE ON ERF GRANT IMPLEMENTATION AND UNHOUSED ASSISTANCE EFFORTS
- TIMELINE FOR CITYWIDE WEED ABATEMENT ACTIVIES
- BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE: HELD MONTLY ON THE FIRST MONDAY
- STREET MAINTENANCE UPDATE
- CITY HALL CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13TH AND MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH.
11. CLOSED SESSION
A. Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation - The City Council will conduct a closed session, pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(1), to confer with legal counsel regarding litigation to which the City is a party. The title of such litigation is as follows: City of Fillmore vs. Jacob Cooper, et al; Case Number 56-2023-00575230-CU-OR-VTA; Ventura County Superior Court.
11.A CLOSED SESSION- FEBRUARY 10, 2026, CLOSED SESSION - FEBRUARY 10, 2026.PDF
12. ADJOURNMENT
MAYOR ALBERT MENDEZ ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 ,2026, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

Solution Tree recognized Mountain Vista Elementary as a Promising Practices Professional Learning Community for its success in raising student achievement. The district’s commitment to implementing the Professional Learning Community process has been a major contributing factor in making a visible, positive impact on student learning.
Responding to news of the recognition, Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle expressed gratitude to all staff at Mountain Vista for their commitment to raising student achievement and creating a positive school culture. Mountain Vista School is working as a collaborative team and focusing on student learning. We look forward to continued growth and student success.
Professional Learning Communities are schools and districts in which educators recognize that the key to improved learning for students is ongoing, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The three big ideas of a Professional Learning Community call upon educators to focus on learning, build a collaborative culture, and create a results orientation.
Promising Practices schools are recognized for building a strong foundation based on the Professional Learning Community concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least one to two years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture, and submit its application for consideration by the Professional Learning Community Review Committee.

Released via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VCpublicworks/posts/pfbid02Q3F1bqX74BA4iDbXX6i9...
From VCPWA:
“Balcom Canyon Road is officially reopened to the public after being closed since Spring 2024. The Ventura County Public Works Agency (PWA) has completed all necessary repairs and safety improvements, restoring full access for residents, ranching operations, and emergency services. The closure followed significant roadway damage caused by a landslide, requiring extensive assessment, design, and construction to ensure long-term stability. Crews worked through challenging site conditions to rebuild the damaged section, improve drainage, and reinforce the surrounding embankments.
Supervisor Kelly Long’s office and the Ventura County Public Works Agency appreciate the community’s patience throughout the closure and extend their thanks to the construction crews and engineers, whose coordinated efforts made the reopening possible. With repairs now complete, Balcom Canyon Road is once again safe for travel and ready to serve the community for years to come. “The reopening of Balcom Canyon Road restores a critical connection between the Santa Clara Valley, Camarillo, and surrounding communities. This corridor plays an important role in keeping residents, businesses, and emergency services connected. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Ventura County Public Works Agency for their hard work and commitment in repairing this road after significant storm damage and safely reopening it for the community,” said Supervisor Long.”

Pictured top left to right is Michelle Pinedo, Skyla Sandoval, Delilah Cervantez, Sophia Rivera, middle: Tania Vazquez, Sofia Montelongo, Alani Alvarado, Aubree Herrera, kneeling: Naomi Bonilla. Not pictured: Sophia Valdovinos and Annabelle Olaguez. Photo credit Lurdes Bonilla.
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By FHS Girls Head Coach Michael Torres
OXNARD — The Fillmore Flashes girls wrestling team competed at the Citrus Coast League Wrestling Finals on Saturday, February 7, crowning three league champions and placing wrestlers across multiple weight classes at Hueneme High School.
Leading the charge was junior Naomi Bonilla, who captured her second consecutive league championship while earning recognition as the CCL Lower Weight Most Valuable Player. Bonilla, a team captain in her second year of wrestling, has established herself as one of the premier lightweights in the league.
Senior co-captains Skyla Sandoval and Michelle Pinedo joined Bonilla atop the podium. Sandoval successfully defended her title at 135 pounds, becoming a two-time league champion, while Pinedo broke through for her first league championship at 130 pounds. All three captains are second-year wrestlers who have quickly made their mark on the program.
The Flashes’ young talent was on full display throughout the tournament, with seven additional wrestlers earning medals. Freshman Alani Alvarado secured second place at 110 pounds, while classmate Aubree Herrera took third at 115 pounds. Senior Delilah Cervantez added a second-place finish at 120 pounds, and freshman Sophia Valdovinos claimed third at 125 pounds.
The freshman class continued to shine in the upper weights, with Sofia Montelongo placing second at 140 pounds, Sophia Rivera earning third at 155 pounds, and Annabelle Olaguez taking third at 190 pounds. Freshman Tania Vazquez also captured the JV championship at 130 pounds.
All varsity medal winners have qualified to compete in the CIF Individual Championships, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 13-14, at Adelanto High School.
The strong showing by Fillmore’s wrestlers, particularly the impressive freshman contingent, signals a bright future for the program as it continues to build momentum in the Citrus Coast League. “We’ve got something special building here,” said Fillmore head coach Michael Torres, “if our girls all stick with it, I see them fighting for a league team championship in the next couple of seasons.”

Posted on February 04, 2026,
Courtesy https://fillmoreca.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/262
The City is currently upgrading the sewer main along C Street to help ensure the continued reliability and safety of the community’s wastewater system.
Maintaining and improving the City’s sewer infrastructure is essential to protecting public health, preventing system failures, and ensuring wastewater is safely collected and treated. Well-maintained sewer systems help reduce the risk of backups, overflows, main breaks, and contamination, while supporting homes, businesses, and essential services that rely on underground utilities.
This project is a long-term investment that will strengthen the City’s sewer system and help ensure it can meet both current and future community needs.
To complete this work safely and efficiently, Goodenough Road between Old Telegraph Road and Harthorn Lane (3rd Street) will be closed in both directions for approximately two months. In addition, C Street between Old Telegraph Road and Falcon Way will experience occasional closures during construction.
The City of Fillmore appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as this critical infrastructure improvement moves forward to protect public health and maintain essential services for Fillmore residents.

By Head Girls Coach Michael Torres
Oxnard - The Fillmore High School Flashes boys wrestling team, coached by Manuel Ponce, competed at the Citrus Coast League (CCL) Finals on Saturday, February 7, as the Flashes collected two individual CCL Championships. Other schools competing in the event included Channel Islands, Nordhoff, Santa Paula and hosting team Hueneme.
In a tightly contested back and forth finals match that went down to the final seconds, junior captain James Alcantar claimed the CCL title at 132 pounds, by gaining valuable near-fall points in the final period to secure the victory over his Hueneme High School opponent.
At 165 pounds, senior co-captain Gonzalo Landeros not only captured the CCL championship but was also honored by the league with the Upper Weight CCL Most Valuable Player award and finished the season undefeated in the CCL. Landeros is also a three-time CCL Champion having captured titles in his sophomore and junior seasons.
Senior co-captain Tony Lemus (126 lbs.) had the title in hand with an 8-3 lead in the finals but was disqualified due to his Hueneme High School opponent being injured and unable to continue with what was deemed an illegal slam. He along with senior Emiliano Castanon (150 lbs.), and juniors Brendan Morales (175 lbs.) and Valentin Garcia (285 lbs.) each reached their respective finals, finishing as runners-up in hard-fought championship bouts. Senior Eddie Padilla rounded out the varsity scoring with a fourth-place finish at 215 pounds but did not qualify for post-season competition; he will be listed as an alternate.
With the top three finishers in each varsity weight class earning advancement, Fillmore will send six wrestlers to the Northern Division CIF Individual Championships, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 13–14, at Moorpark High School.
In the Junior Varsity competition, freshman Kobe Avila claimed the 215-pound title. Fellow freshman Abraham Castorena also competed in the JV bracket at 144 pounds and placed 3rd.

Residents of Fillmore are invited to come together for a morning of conversation, connection, and community spirit at the upcoming Coffee with Badges event, hosted at Fillmore Starbucks.
This event will take place on Tuesday, February 10th, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, at Fillmore Starbucks, located at 650 Ventura Street, and will feature first responders from the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, and the Ventura County Probation Agency. Community members are encouraged to stop by, enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee, and engage in friendly discussions with the first responders who serve their community every day.
Coffee with Badges is all about building relationships. First responders want people to feel comfortable approaching them, asking questions, and getting to know them beyond the badge.
The informal event offers a welcoming space for residents to share ideas, express concerns, or simply chat with first responders in a casual and friendly setting. No speeches or agendas – just good coffee and good conversation.
Join us in the fight against crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Tech Specialist Jesus Gaytan
News Release Date: February 5th, 2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
***
Nature of Incident: Coffee with Badges
Report Number: N/A
Location: Fillmore Starbucks, 650 Ventura Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: February 10th, 8 am – 9:30 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Police Department

Courtesy https://www.instagram.com/p/DUJvKE1EsyC/?img_index=2.
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Graffiti vandalism is an eyesore that directly affects the quality of life in our communities. If left unchecked, graffiti can decrease property values and lead to the deterioration of entire neighborhoods. Graffiti may also be the catalyst for additional, more serious crimes affecting our communities. The removal of graffiti costs homeowners, business owners and taxpayers thousands of dollars each year. 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.
On 01/24/2026, during the early morning hours, suspects committed multiple graffiti vandalisms throughout east Fillmore which included damage to the city of Fillmore, the Fillmore Historical Museum, and private properties. Patrol personnel from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded to the scenes of the crime spree and estimated the damage to be in the thousands of dollars.
Over the course of the investigation, patrol deputies located evidence which led them to identify three vandalism suspects. The suspects were identified as Jason Lizarraga, Axel Martinez and Joel Alonzo. All three suspects are affiliated with a criminal street gang in Fillmore.
Fillmore patrol personnel collaborated with the Fillmore Detective Unit and obtained a search warrant for the suspects and their residences. On 01/29/2026, Fillmore detectives, West County Special Enforcement Unit detectives, and Fillmore patrol personnel executed search warrants at two locations in Fillmore and one location in Piru. As a result, additional evidence linking the suspects to the gang-graffiti vandalisms was located. Additionally, both Jason Lizarraga, a 18-year old Fillmore resident and Axel Martinez, a 18-year old Fillmore resident were arrested for a felonious violations of Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] along with multiple counts of Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang]. They were both booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility pending court proceedings.
On 01/30/2026, during the morning hours, the Fillmore Detective Unit located the third suspect, Joel Alonzo and arrested him for his participation in the vandalisms. Alonzo is affiliated with a criminal street gang and recently discharged parole. He was arrested for a felonious violation of Penal Code § 182.5 – [Criminal Gang Conspiracy] along with multiple counts of Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Graffiti Vandalism] and Penal Code § 186.22(b)(1) – [For the Benefit of the Gang]. He was later booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility pending court proceedings.
The Fillmore Police Department encourages citizens to immediately report suspicious people and vehicles, and to promptly report any graffiti they come across by calling our dispatch center at (805) 654-9511. Following a police investigation, all graffiti should be immediately removed. Anyone with information pertaining to any crimes is urged to contact the Fillmore Police Station at (805) 524-2233 or the listed detectives below. The reporting party may remain anonymous.
Graffiti Removal
The City of Fillmore removes all graffiti in public areas by either painting over it or by using a power washer, depending upon the location of the graffiti. Residents are encouraged to call the city graffiti hotline at (805) 524-1500, prompt number 4, then 3. Additionally, private property owners are encouraged to help combat vandalism by removing any graffiti visible on their properties.
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: 01/30/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Gang Members Arrested
Report Number: 26-10467
Location: Multiple Locations in East Fillmore
Date & Time: 01/24/2026, early morning hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Detective Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent ; City of Residence; Age:
(V) Fillmore Citizens & Businesses, Fillmore, N/A
(S) Jason Lizarraga, Fillmore, 18
(S) Axel Martinez, Fillmore, 18
(S) Joel Alonzo, 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).

Christine Schieferle, Superintendent of Fillmore Unified School District

Posted February 2, 2026, courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...
Dear FUSD Staff and Families,
We recently became aware of a student-led effort to have middle and high school students walk-out of school, tomorrow, February 3, 2026, to make their voices heard about immigration policies. Planned events such as these are student-led events and not school-sponsored activities.
We respect our students’ First Amendment rights and recognize that advocating for issues they are passionate about can be a valuable learning experience. At the same time, we acknowledge that some students may prefer to remain in class. Our priority is to ensure that all students feel safe and respected, regardless of their choice.
If students choose to participate in a walkout during school hours, the district will respond as follows:
Schools and classes will continue as scheduled.
Whenever possible, school administrators, particularly in middle and high schools, will work with student leaders to provide a safe and supervised on-campus space for those who choose to participate.
We encourage students to remain on campus. Once students leave campus, we cannot assume responsibility for their safety.
All students are expected to follow all school rules and expectations while on campus to maintain a safe and orderly environment.
If a walkout moves off campus, we will coordinate with local law enforcement agencies to support public safety.
Because these walkouts are not school-sponsored activities, we will follow district policies regarding excused and unexcused absences. We encourage you to have conversations with your child about this event, as you see appropriate.
As always, we remain committed to maintaining safe and welcoming schools for all students and families.
Thank you,
Christine Schieferle, Superintendent
Fillmore Unified School District

Soon to be retired from the United States Navy, Phillip C. Diaz of Fillmore.

Pictured is U.S. Navy Senior Chief Phillip C. Diaz with his family, Cynthia, Lily (3) and Hailee (5), Thanksgiving 2025 in Fillmore.
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U.S. Navy Senior Chief (E-8) Information Branch (I-Branch) Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO) Phillip C. Diaz, a 2004 Fillmore High School (FHS) Graduate will retire from the United States Navy on February 28, 2026. In addition to FHS Phillip attended Piru Elementary School and Fillmore Middle School.
Growing up in Fillmore Phillip participated in Fillmore T-Ball, Little League, Fillmore High School Baseball and Football. Phillip was a member of the Piru 4-H Club raising the 1995 Grand Champion Swine named Tomasina, his first year in 4-H! Phillip is the Son of Richard and Carolyn Diaz and Brother to Arron Diaz, Brooke (Diaz) Heinrich and Julia (Diaz) Fitzgibbons. Phillip is the father of two beautiful daughters Hailee and Lily, Uncle to eleven nieces and nephews and has many uncles, aunts and cousins living in the San Diego area.
Despite living in “Padre Country” Phillip remains a Lifelong Dodger Fan! On May 22, 2024, Phillip was selected and honored as the “Dodgers Military Hero of The Game” when the Dodgers hosted the Arizona Diamondbacks. After retirement Phillip and Cynthia, children Hailee (5) and Lily (3) will remain the San Diego area where they have made their home and have lived for the past six years.
Phillip entered the Navy on October 31, 2005, as an Information Technician (IT) and received his approximately 10-week Basic Training and “C” School on the shores of Lake Michigan at the U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command Naval Station Great Lakes near Chicago, Illinois. During Phillip’s just over 20-years of service to his Country he has served on the USS McFaul (DD 74), USS Mt. Whitney (LCC 20) Communications Flagship ported in Gaeta, Italy, USS Russell (DDG 59) an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided missile destroyer and the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Phillip has also been stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, Gaeta, Italy and San Diego.
Phillip has been deployed eight times. His longest deployment was at Bagram Air Base in Parwan Province, Afghanistan where he served for 1-year. There he served as an EOD ESU 2. Bagram Air Base was a frequent target for drone and missile attacks. One of Phillip’s memorable moments at Bagram, and there were many, was when his Nephew Michael O’Neal, an Army “Forward Observer” located Phillip at Bagram Air Base for an unforgettable reunion!
Phillip also was an instructor for both “C” and “F” Schools. Phillip visited many countries during his military service. He twice visited his “Birth Country and City” Busan, South Korea. When Phillip was born in 1986 Busan was known as Pusan. Since 2000 Pusan has been referred to Busan. It wasn’t a name change but a standardization of how Korean sounds are written in English to better reflect the native pronunciation of the English ‘p’ to the Korean softer ‘b’. A mountain near the city is also named Busan.
Phillip’s Family, Coworkers and Friends will witness his ‘Retirement Ceremony’ on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. onboard the USS Midway Museum. The Midway (CV-41) is a floating Aircraft Carrier commissioned in 1945 and docked in San Diego Harbor. The Fillmore Community thanks Senior Chief Phillip C. Diaz for his service and sacrifice to his Country.