MISSOULA — Here's a look at Western Montana's top news stories for Friday.
On Thursday, Kala Knaus pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide while under the influence for a New Year's Day crash near Bigfork that killed 37-year-old Alyssa Sladek. The woman, accused of crossing the center line on Highway 35, faces 20 years in prison with 10 suspended upon sentencing. (Read the full story)
Missoula transportation officials have finalized a safety plan for Reserve Street following more than 1,600 crashes from 2019 to 2023, including three fatalities. The plan proposes enhanced crossings, roundabouts, traffic signals and improved pedestrian safety — though funding remains a challenge with federal money being difficult to secure. (Read the full story)
A Stevensville man retrofitted an Isuzu truck with a giant orca named Killatrina to "inspire smiles and change" across Western Montana through his Montana Orca Project. Bennetto Fernandez said he built his childhood dream hoping to eventually sell ice cream from the whale's service window while spreading joy on the road. (Read the full story)
Snow showers return Friday with only minor impacts expected. However, some snow-covered roads will be possible around the region to start your day. Highs will be in the 20s to low 30s. Taking a quick look at the weekend, a weak ridge of high pressure looks to build, leading to dry weather with highs in the 30s Saturday, then 30s to mid 40s Sunday. (Read the full story)
Four players scored in double figures and Idaho State evened the season series with the Montana Lady Griz as the Bengals were victorious at Dahlberg Arena, 71-54, on Thursday evening. Piper Carlson led the way with 19 points while Tasia Jordan added 12. Kacey Spink chipped in 11 for the Bengals and added seven assists, while Aspen Caldwell scored 10 points as ISU improved to 18-8 overall and 11-4 in Big Sky Conference play. (Read the full story)
