Top stories: Bear spotted on Herndon; City Council endorsements; Costco love after lawsuit
The Fresno Bee covered a range of top stories Thursday, including a wildlife sighting, city council endorsements, a major retail development and a public safety concern affecting local children. Here’s a roundup of the day’s headlines.
We assemble this list each evening, so you can get caught up on the top Fresno Bee stories of the day
Bear spotted in northwest Fresno neighborhood
A bear was seen early Thursday morning on Isla Avenue near Herndon and West avenues in northwest Fresno, prompting Councilman Mike Karbassi to alert residents during a council meeting. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife responded but could not locate the animal. Residents who encounter large wildlife should call 559-649-1125. Click here for full story.
Editorial board endorses fresh faces in city council races
The Fresno Bee Editorial Board issued endorsements in four historic city council primaries for districts 1, 3, 5 and 7, favoring candidates with new perspectives and leadership experience. Only one incumbent, Brandon Vang, is running among the 20 candidates. Key issues shaping the endorsements include the anti-camping ordinance, High-Speed Rail and a proposed downtown soccer stadium. Click here for full story.
Costco’s northwest Fresno store nears approval
Fresno’s Planning Commission approved revised plans Wednesday for a new Costco at Herndon Avenue and Riverside Drive, with the City Council set to consider the project May 21. Officials warn the wholesale club could relocate to Madera County, costing Fresno an estimated $15 million annually in taxes. The 219,000-square-foot store would replace the aging Shaw Avenue location. Click here for full story.
E-bike and e-scooter injuries surge among children
E-bike and e-scooter-related injuries at Valley Children’s Hospital climbed from 11 in 2023 to 41 in 2025, with 22 already recorded in the first four months of 2026. A 13-year-old was killed and a 12-year-old critically injured last week in a motorized scooter collision with a truck. Officials warn that some vehicles marketed as e-bikes can reach 60 mph and are not street legal. Click here for full story.
Original stories by Liliana Fannin, Erik Galicia and B.J. Anteola.
This report was produced with the assistance of a proprietary tool powered by artificial intelligence based on our own originally reported, written and published content. Before publishing, journalists reviewed this content in compliance with McClatchy Media’s AI policy.
This story was originally published May 7, 2026 at 7:59 PM.
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