Articles — Keep Newport Safe

FEATURED: The Police Headquarters Debate Is About More Than a Park

Published on: June 23, 2026

Newport Beach residents care deeply about their community. That is why the discussion surrounding a future Newport Beach Police Department headquarters has generated such strong opinions. On one side are organized opponents, including SPON and park preservation advocates, who have raised concerns about locating a future police headquarters near Civic Center Park. Their arguments largely focus on preserving open space, protecting public art installations such as Bunnyhenge, avoiding impacts to the park, and exploring alternative locations. Those concerns are understandable and deserve consideration as part of the public process. Read The Article

Over 400 people arrested during chaos at Newport Beach July 4th celebrations, police say

Published on: June 5, 2026

What began as a Fourth of July celebration turned into widespread chaos in Newport Beach, where fights, illegal fireworks, vandalism, and large crowds overwhelmed police, leading to hundreds of arrests and several injured officers. According to police, the unrest began around 7 p.m. on the Balboa Peninsula after large groups gathered and began lighting illegal fireworks and fighting in the streets. As the evening progressed, the situation escalated, with crowds blocking roadways, damaging property, and creating dangerous conditions for both residents and visitors. Read The Article

Newport Beach firefighters applaud return to full four-firfighter staffing on the Peninsula

Published on: June 1, 2026

Firefighters serving the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach are once again operating with four-person engine companies after city officials restored staffing levels, a move firefighters say will improve emergency response and enhance safety for both crews and the public. The staffing increase follows years of advocacy from firefighters and community leaders who argued that restoring a fourth firefighter to Peninsula engine companies would better align the department with national firefighting standards. Fire officials say four-person crews can perform critical tasks more efficiently during structure fires, medical emergencies, vehicle collisions, and other high-risk incidents. Read The Article

OC City Posts, Then Deletes Amusing Fake ID Arrest Video

Published on: June 1, 2026

A body camera video shared by the Newport Beach Police Department showing the arrest of an underage woman using a fake ID quickly went viral before unexpectedly being removed from the city’s social media accounts. The footage, originally posted as part of the department’s “Not in Newport” campaign, captured an officer questioning two college-aged women outside Mutt Lynch’s on Balboa Peninsula after they were suspected of using fake identification to enter a bar. During the exchange, one woman gave conflicting answers about where she lived and attended school, leading to a conversation that quickly spread online because of her confusing responses. Read The Article

3 arrested for violent home invasion robbery in Newport Beach

Published on: June 28, 2026

Keeping Public Safety at the Heart of Newport Beach

Published on: June 22, 2026

Newport Beach has spent decades building one of the strongest public safety records in California. Residents expect safe neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, thriving business districts, and professional police and fire services. Those expectations have helped shape the city into one of the most desirable communities in the state. As discussions continue regarding a future Newport Beach Police Department headquarters, the focus should remain on what best serves the community over the coming decades. Read The Article

Newport Beach braces for Fourth of July weekend with added safety measures

Published on: June 14, 2026

With the nation preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday, city officials in Newport Beach are rolling out expanded public safety measures ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest Fourth of July weekends in recent memory. Thousands of residents and .visitors are expected to descend on the city’s beaches, harbor, neighborhoods, and waterfront destinations during the holiday weekend. To help maintain a family-friendly atmosphere and prevent the problems seen during previous celebrations, officials are increasing enforcement efforts and expanding safety operations throughout the city. Read The Article

Why the Newport Beach Police Department Continues to Set the Standard in Orange County

Published on: June 12, 2026

When residents talk about what makes Newport Beach one of Southern California's most desirable communities, the conversation often centers on its beaches, schools, parks, and quality of life. Less frequently discussed, but equally important, is the role played by the Newport Beach Police Department in helping maintain that standard. For decades, the department has built a reputation for professionalism, responsiveness, and community engagement, earning recognition as one of Orange County's most respected law enforcement agencies. One measure often cited is response time. According to department data, Newport Beach police officers respond to Priority 1 emergency calls in an average of just over three minutes. In an era when many communities across California are grappling with longer emergency response times, that level of service remains noteworthy. But response time tells only part of the story. Read the Article

3 Arrested In Violent Home Invasion In Newport Beach: Police

Published on: June 11, 2026

Three people have been arrested following a months-long investigation into a violent home invasion robbery at a short-term rental property in Newport Beach, according to police. The incident occurred on March 13 when officers responded to reports of a home invasion involving multiple victims. Investigators determined that two masked suspects armed with handguns entered the residence and demanded money and narcotics from the occupants inside. During the confrontation, several victims were assaulted and suffered injuries that required medical treatment. Authorities said the suspects stole numerous items before fleeing the scene, including cell phones, jewelry, vehicle keys, and other personal property. Detectives spent the following months gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and tracking leads in an effort to identify those responsible. Read The Article

The Public Safety Partnership That Helps Keep Newport Beach Safe

Published on: June 11, 2026

Newport Beach is known for its beaches, harbor, neighborhoods, and high quality of life. But one of the biggest reasons residents and visitors enjoy the city is something that often operates quietly in the background: a strong public safety network. The safety of Newport Beach is built on the daily work of the Newport Beach Police Department, Newport Beach Fire Department, and Newport Beach Lifeguards. Together, these three agencies provide the services that help keep the community safe year-round. For many residents, the Newport Beach Police Department is the most visible part of that effort. Officers patrol neighborhoods, respond to emergency calls, investigate crimes, address traffic concerns, and participate in community events throughout the city. The department is known for its quick response to emergencies and strong connection with the community. Residents regularly see officers at neighborhood meetings, school events, community gatherings, and public safety programs. Read The Article

Massive summer swell brings 20-foot waves to Newport Beach's famous Wedge, prompting warnings

Published on: June 10, 2026

Massive waves are expected to pound Newport Beach this week as forecasters predict what could be some of the biggest surf conditions Southern California has seen so far this year. According to the National Weather Service, a powerful south swell is forecast to build through the middle of the week, generating waves of 8 to 12 feet along parts of the coast and potentially much larger sets at The Wedge. Officials say the swell is expected to strengthen Tuesday before peaking Wednesday and Thursday, creating hazardous conditions for inexperienced swimmers and beachgoers. The Wedge, located at the end of the Balboa Peninsula, is famous for producing massive waves when incoming swell reflects off the harbor jetty and combines with additional wave energy. Read The Article

Summer in Newport Beach: The Public Safety Teams Working Behind the Scenes

Published on: June 9, 2026

As summer activity ramps up across Newport Beach, city officials continue preparing for the busiest months of the year. From crowded beaches and packed harbor channels to major holiday weekends and community events, public safety personnel play a critical role in ensuring residents and visitors can safely enjoy everything the city has to offer. Whether responding to emergencies in the ocean, answering critical 911 calls, or providing lifesaving medical care, the combined efforts of the Newport Beach Police Department, Fire Department, and Lifeguard Division help keep one of Southern California’s most visited coastal communities running smoothly during its busiest season. Read The Article

Motorcycle Rider Killed On PCH In Newport Beach

Published on: June 6, 2026

A motorcyclist was killed following a crash in Newport Beach, prompting an investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal collision. The crash occurred shortly before 6 p.m. near the intersection of Jamboree Road and San Joaquin Hills Road. Newport Beach police officers and firefighters responded to reports of a traffic collision involving a motorcycle and arrived to find the rider suffering from critical injuries. Despite lifesaving efforts at the scene, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead. Authorities said the collision involved a motorcycle and at least one other vehicle. The driver of the other vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Police have not released the identity of the motorcyclist pending notification of family members. Read The Article

Woman, 69, Struck And Killed By Car In Newport Beach: Police

Published on: May 4, 2026

A 69-year-old woman was killed after being struck by a vehicle while walking in Newport Beach, according to police. The collision occurred around 4 p.m. on June 3 in the 3400 block of Irvine Avenue near Bristol Street. Newport Beach police officers responded to reports of a traffic collision involving a pedestrian and arrived to find the woman suffering from fatal injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities identified the victim as MaryAnn White-Calhoun. Police said she was believed to be experiencing homelessness at the time of the collision. Investigators have not released details about what led up to the crash or whether speed, impairment, or any other factors may have contributed to the incident. Read The Article

Dog dies in 2-alarm fire in Newport News, 8 apartment units impacted

Published on: May 30, 2026

Firefighters responded to reports of a structure fire and arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the home. Crews immediately began an aggressive attack on the blaze while working to keep the fire from spreading to neighboring residences. Emergency personnel remained on scene as firefighters searched the home and brought the fire under control. While crews were able to contain the flames, officials said one dog inside the residence was found deceased. No residents or firefighters were injured during the incident, and all occupants were able to safely escape the home. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Fire officials have not yet released an official estimate of the damage, but the home sustained significant fire and smoke damage as a result of the blaze. Read The Article

Newport Beach mother faces possible criminal charges after son's arrest involving illegal e-motorcycle

Published on: May 28, 2026

A Newport Beach mother could face criminal charges after her teenage son was arrested for allegedly fleeing police on an illegal electric motorcycle. According to Newport Beach Police, officers attempted to stop the teen after he allegedly rode recklessly, drove into oncoming traffic, and ran a red light before the pursuit was terminated for public safety reasons. Investigators later identified the rider, served a search warrant at the family's home, arrested the juvenile on felony charges, and seized the e-motorcycle. Police say the case will be referred to the Orange County District Attorney's Office for possible charges against the mother, citing a documented history of prior incidents involving the teen and his parents. The case highlights growing concerns across Orange County about the dangers posed by illegal high-powered e-motorcycles and efforts to hold both riders and parents accountable when minors repeatedly violate the law. Read the Article

6-Car Crash Kills Man When Car Plows Through Intersection In Newport Beach: Police

Published on: May 20, 2026

A man was killed and another person was injured after a violent six-vehicle crash at a busy intersection in Newport Beach, according to police. The collision happened around 4 p.m. on May 19 at the intersection of San Miguel Drive and MacArthur Boulevard. Responding officers found a black Toyota Corlla with severe crash damage after it had plowed into several vehicles that were stopped at a red light. Police immediately began rendering aid to the driver of the Corolla, who was transported to a local hospital by firefighters. Despite lifesaving efforts, the man later died from his injuries. Another driver was taken to the hospital after reporting pain, while the remaining motorists involved were evaluated and treated at the scene. Investigators said the Corolla was traveling westbound on San Miguel Drive when it crashed into multiple vehicles waiting at the red light. The force of the collision pushed an Audi Q5 into the intersection, where it then collided with a Nissan that was making a turn onto MacArthur Boulevard. Read The Article

Wildfire Readiness Panel To Take Place In Newport Beach: What To Know

Published on: May 6, 2026

A wildfire preparedness panel is coming to Newport Beach as local officials and fire safety experts encourage residents to take steps now before the peak fire season arrives. The event is designed to help homeowners better understand wildfire risks, emergency planning, evacuation procedures, and ways to make homes more resistant to fire. Panelists are expected to discuss defensible space, emergency communication systems, home-hardening strategies, and lessons learned from recent Southern California wildfires. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from fire professionals, ask questions, and learn about resources available to help families and neighborhoods prepare for emergencies. Organizers hope the discussion will provide practical information that residents can use to strengthen their preparedness plans before fire conditions worsen during the summer and fall months. Read The Article

Suspect In Violent Kidnapping That Shut Down OC Freeway Arrested: Police

Published on: April 21, 2026

A 42-year-old Anaheim man has been arrested following what police described as a violent kidnapping and assault that began in Fullerton, escalated across multiple cities, and ultimately led to a major freeway shutdown before ending in Newport Beach. According to investigators, the incident began around 4:10 a.m. when a man and woman were sitting inside a vehicle in Anaheim. Police said the suspect, later identified as Charles Hernandez, approached the vehicle and began striking it. The victims attempted to leave the area, but Hernandez allegedly followed them into a cul-de-sac in Fullerton, where he intentionally rammed their vehicle multiple times. Authorities say Hernandez then exited his vehicle and confronted the male victim. During the altercation, he allegedly demanded the victim’s wallet, threatened to retrieve a firearm, and assaulted him with a metal sign. The female victim called 911 and reported that Hernandez was attempting to take her against her will. Read The Article

Newport Beach police arrests BMW driver in road rage incident with bicyclists

Published on: March 26, 2026

A BMW driver accused of intentionally targeting cyclists during a road rage incident in Newport Beach has been arrested following an investigation that gained widespread attention after video of the encounter went viral. The incident occurred on March 21 along Pacific Coast Highway, where video captured a blue BMW driving dangerously close to cyclists riding in a designated bike lane. The footage showed the vehicle swerving toward the riders and forcing them to take evasive action to avoid being struck.

According to investigators, the confrontation escalated beyond the initial encounter. Cyclists reported that occupants of the BMW and another vehicle allegedly yelled at them, threw objects, and later attempted to block and confront riders farther down the roadway. One cyclist said the group threatened them and attempted to force riders off their bikes. Read The Article

4 rescued after small boat runs aground in Newport Beach

Published on: March 23, 2026

Four people were rescued after a small boat ran aground off the coast of Newport Beach, prompting a coordinated response from lifeguards and fire personnel. According to officials, the vessel experienced mechanical problems Saturday evening and drifted ashore near Ladder Rock. With rough surf conditions pushing the boat toward the coastline, emergency crews were called in to assist the passengers and prevent the situation from becoming more dangerous. Newport Beach lifeguards responded quickly, swimming a line through the surf and securing it to the stranded vessel. Working alongside the lifeguard rescue boat Sea Watch, crews were able to pull the boat back into deeper water and safely remove the passengers from danger. Fire officials later praised the actions of the rescue teams, noting that their quick response helped avert what could have become a much more serious incident. Read The Article

Trash Truck Fire Breaks Out In Newport Beach

Published on: March 3, 2026

A trash truck caught fire while traveling through a neighborhood in Newport Beach Tuesday morning, prompting a response from firefighters and a temporary disruption to traffic in the area. According to the Newport Beach Fire Department, the incident was reported near the intersection of Catalina Drive and Holmwood Drive. When crews arrived, they found smoke coming from the rear cargo area of the truck, indicating that debris inside the vehicle had caught fire. To prevent the flames from spreading and causing more significant damage to the vehicle, firefighters had the truck dump its contents onto the street. Crews then worked to extinguish the burning debris and contain the situation before it could escalate further. Authorities said the fire remained confined to the truck’s cargo area and was successfully brought under control. Read The Article

Victim, 21, ID'd In Fatal DUI Hit-And-Run In Newport Beach

Published on: March 3, 2026

A 21-year-old man has been identified as the victim of a fatal DUI hit-and-run crash that occurred over the weekend in Newport Beach, according to police and court records. The incident has now led to murder and felony hit-and-run charges against the suspected driver. Authorities say officers responded shortly after 2 a.m. to the area of Newport Boulevard and 24th Street after receiving reports that a vehicle had struck two pedestrians. When first responders arrived, one victim was pronounced dead at the scene while a second pedestrian was transported to a hospital for treatment. Investigators later identified the deceased victim as Steven Alcaraz Aguilar, 21, of Laguna Hills. According to police, Aguilar was struck by a Chevrolet Corvette allegedly driven by Jesus Alvarez, 26, of Adelanto. Prosecutors have charged Alvarez with murder and felony hit-and-run causing permanent and serious injury. Read The Article

Newport Beach city leaders vote to crack down on spring break partiers with new fines, more police

Published on: February 10, 2026

Newport Beach officials unanimously approved stronger spring break enforcement measures after residents raised concerns about underage drinking, overcrowding, and large unruly parties. During designated spring break periods in March and April, the city will deploy additional police patrols and impose enhanced penalties in areas such as the Balboa Peninsula and parts of Corona del Mar. City leaders cited nearly 500 arrests during the previous spring break season, many involving visitors from outside the city. Read The Article

Police arrest 3 suspects linked to transnational crime ring behind multiple Orange County burglaries

Published on: January 30, 2026

Three men believed to be connected to a transnational organized crime ring have been arrested following an investigation into a series of residential burglaries targeting upscale neighborhoods throughout Orange County, according to law enforcement officials. The investigation was a joint effort between the Irvine and Newport Beach police departments, which had been tracking a group suspected of targeting hillside homes in affluent communities. Authorities said the suspects allegedly traveled from the Los Angeles area into Orange County to commit the crimes before returning north. Detectives began focusing on the group after identifying a vehicle believed to be connected to several recent burglaries. Investigators said the suspects frequently targeted homes backing up to hillsides, parks, and trails, often entering through rear sliding glass doors, balconies, or other less-visible access points. Read The Article

Three injured in wrong-way crash on 73 Freeway in Newport Beach

Published on: January 23, 2026

Three people suffered major injuries after a wrong-way driver caused a violent crash on the 73 Freeway in Newport Beach, according to the California Highway Patrol. Authorities said the incident began around 8:05 p.m. when CHP received reports of a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of State Route 73 near Greenfield Drive in Laguna Niguel. Witnesses initially reported the vehicle traveling at approximately 45 mph, but subsequent calls indicated the driver reached speeds of nearly 100 mph while continuing in the wrong direction. Just minutes later, the wrong-way vehicle collided with another car south of Bonita Canyon Drive. The impact was so severe that both vehicles sustained catastrophic damage, with reports indicating one vehicle was split apart by the force of the crash. Three people were transported to area hospitals with major injuries. Read The Article

Fire Breaks Out Inside Newport Beach Business: NBFD

Published on: January 22, 2026

A fire inside a commercial building prompted a response from firefighters in Newport Beach after smoke was reported coming from a local business. The fire was reported during the afternoon hours, with crews from the Newport Beach Fire Department arriving to find smoke conditions inside the structure. Firefighters quickly entered the building and worked to locate and extinguish the source of the fire before it could spread further. Officials said the blaze was contained to a limited area of the business, helping prevent more extensive damage to the property. Fire crews remained on scene for some time afterward to ensure there were no remaining hot spots and to assist with ventilation efforts. Read The Article

Newport Beach woman found dead at bottom of mountain embankment. Tech CEO husband accused of murder

Published on: January 6, 2026

The estranged husband of a Newport Beach woman whose body was discovered at the bottom of a steep mountain embankment has been arrested and charged with murder months after her death. Authorities announced the arrest of Gordon Abas Goodarzi, 66, in connection with the death of Aryan Papoli, 58, who was found dead in November near the mountain community of Crestline in San Bernardino County. Investigators said Papoli’s body was located roughly 75 feet down a steep embankment after deputies responded to reports of a deceased person in the area. At the time, officials initially noted that Papoli’s injuries appeared consistent with a fall. However, after a more extensive review of the autopsy and evidence gathered during the investigation, the San Bernardino County Coroner ultimately ruled her death a homicide. Detectives continued investigating the case for weeks before identifying and arresting Goodarzi. Read The Article

Search crews continue to scour Newport Beach for fisherman missing since Christmas Eve

Published on: December 31, 2025

Search crews spent days combing the waters and shoreline of Newport Beach after a Nevada man disappeared while fishing near the Wedge on Christmas Eve. Authorities identified the missing fisherman as Lu Thu “Tyler” Tran, 42, an avid fisherman who was visiting family in Garden Grove for the holidays. According to investigators, Tran headed to the west Newport Harbor jetty on the morning of Dec. 24 and remained in contact with family members by cellphone for part of the day before communication suddenly stopped. Concerned relatives later drove to the area and discovered Tran’s vehicle parked nearby. When they searched the jetty, they reportedly found his fishing equipment, including rods, reels, and an ice chest, but found no sign of him. Family members contacted authorities, prompting a large-scale search effort involving lifeguards, harbor patrol personnel, rescue boats, divers, drones, and aircraft. Read The Article

Newport Beach Fire Leaders Earn Top Honors, Reﬂecting Department-Wide Excellence

Published on: December 18, 2025

Several leaders within the Newport Beach Fire Department have received some of the highest honors in California’s fire service profession, recognition that officials say reflects the strength and dedication of the department as a whole. At the California Fire Chiefs Association Conference, Fire Chief Jeff Boyles was presented with the Ronny Jack Coleman Award, one of the state’s most prestigious fire service honors. The award recognizes exceptional leadership, innovation, and long-term contributions to public safety and emergency services. Fire Marshal James Gillespie was also recognized for his impact on the profession, receiving honors for his leadership and service within the California Fire Chiefs Association. His work in fire prevention and safety programs has helped shape standards and best practices used by agencies throughout the state. Read The Article

6-Foot Waves Possible In Newport Beach Starting Friday

Published on: December 3, 2025

Beachgoers in Newport Beach are being urged to use caution as forecasters warn that elevated surf and King Tides could bring waves up to six feet along portions of the Southern California coastline. The National Weather Service issued a Beach Hazard Advisory through Friday morning, warning that a combination of high astronomical tides and above-normal surf may create hazardous conditions near the shoreline. Officials say low-lying beach areas could experience minor flooding during the highest tides, particularly in areas vulnerable to tidal overflow. In addition to the possibility of localized flooding, strong rip currents and larger-than-normal waves are expected to increase the risk for swimmers and anyone entering the water. Weather officials specifically cautioned inexperienced swimmers to stay out of the ocean until conditions improve. Read The Article