Bennett Houchin found his voice at a Bakersfield riding nonprofit
A non-verbal autism diagnosis led one Bakersfield family to MARE, where horses helped a boy find confidence, calm, and his voice
2026 Kern River Run in Bakersfield to end July 31 after four months of...
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The City of Bakersfield announced that after four months of the Kern River flowing through Bakersfield, the City is ending its 2026 Kern River Run on July 31. “Since April, the City of Bakersfield used its available Kern River supply – beyond what is needed...
City to shut off Kern River at the end of the month
The City of Bakersfield will be shutting off water to the Kern River through town as of July 31, according to a press release issued Wednesday. The city has kept the river flowing to the Park at Riverwalk since April using its river rights above what has been needed for drinking water and other contractural deliveries.
Extreme heat building in Kern’s desert neighborhoods
Good morning! Steady heat continues this week in the valley, but our desert towns will feel a larger warm-up. An Extreme Heat Watch is in effect starting Thursday in the desert. Strong high pressure located over the Four Corners is still impacting our local weather. Typical summer heat is likely...
Evacuation warning issued for area north of Hart Park as South Fire burns
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — An evacuation warning has been issued for an area north of Bakersfield due to a fire Wednesday evening. The Kern County Fire Department said a vegetation fire has broke out in the 24000 block of Round Mountain Road in Bakersfield. GenasysProtect said an evacuation warning...
California’s Displaced Oil and Gas Workers’ Fund Is a Lifeline. Now Advocates Say It’s...
With more industry closures looming, labor leaders are urging lawmakers to expand the safety net that has helped more than 600 workers transition to new careers. This story is part of KQED’s series “Flipping the Switch,” examining California’s transition to clean energy and what it means for you. Find the series and mo
Passenger seriously injured, driver arrested for DUI after crash on Highway 99
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A driver will be arrested for DUI after medical clearance after allegedly crashing into the back of a semi-truck on Highway 99 Monday afternoon, trapping and severely injuring his passenger. The California Highway Patrol said on Monday, July 20, 2026, at around 3:49 p.m., officers...
Bakersfield police search for missing 15-year-old last seen Tuesday morning
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Bakersfield Police Department is asking the community’s help in searching for a missing 15-year-old last seen Tuesday morning. Kaylee Zenaida Fernandez was last seen at 9:45 a.m. in the 1800 block of New Riders Street, according to police. She is considered to be at-risk due to her age
Bakersfield police seek help identify suspect in Rosedale Highway HVAC theft attempt
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The Bakersfield Police Department is asking for the community’s help in identifying a man accused of trying to take out an HVAC unit from a Rosedale Highway business. Police said the incident happened on June 16, 2026, at a business in the 6600 block...
Kern County coroner rules woman’s June death in Truxtun Ave canal as accidental
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KET) — Kern County officials have determined that the cause of death of the woman who was found dead in a Bakersfield canal was an accidental drowning. The Kern County Coroner’s Office announced that the death of 43-year-old Shamika Washington was ruled an accident on Wednesday, weeks after she was

















