Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Deer Valley High School graduates 382 in Class of 2026 during 30th year

Tuesday, June 9th, 2026
The Deer Valley High School Class of 2026 graduates toss their caps into the air in celebration inside Wolverines Stadium Saturday morning, June 6, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton

By Allen D. Payton

The 382 graduates of the Deer Valley High School Class of 2026 celebrated with their faculty, family and friends during the school’s 30th year, Saturday morning, June 6th.

The class entered Wolverines Stadium to the traditional sounds of Pomp and Circumstance by the Deer Valley High School Band, led by Music Director Ryan Carr. The Deer Valley Jr. ROTC Cadets, under the leadership of U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Ronnie McGee, provided the Presentation of Colors.

The DVHS Jr. ROTC Presented the Colors and the Divine Voices performed the National Anthem.

The National Anthem was then performed by the Divine Voices, led by Choral Director Alivia Logan and Salutatorian Natalie Hill then asked her classmates to be seated.

DVHS Class of 2026 Salutatorian Natalie Hill speaks during the ceremony as district and school officials look on and with her U.S. Marine Corps scholarship ceremonial check and certificate following the school’s Awards Ceremony earlier this year. Right photo courtesy of Stephanie Hill

House 2 Vice Principal Mike Green, once again, served as Master of Ceremonies. He mentioned that Hill “will attend UCLA in the fall on a full-ride scholarship to study political science. She plans to participate in the ROTC and become a military officer upon graduation.”

Earlier this year, Hill received a $180,000 college scholarship from the U.S. Marine Corps.

DVHS Vice Principal Mike Green, Principal Robert Bowers and Trustee Antonio Hernandez speak to the graduates of the Class of 2026 Saturday morning.

Green mentioned the Antioch Unified School District officials in attendance for the ceremony. They included Trustees Antonio Hernandez, Mary Rocha, Dee Brown and Olga Cobos Smith who each later handed out the diplomas. Also, in attendance was Dr. Camille Johnson, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources.

Many of the graduates decorated their caps with personal messages.

Green then introduced Principal Robert Bowers who spoke to the graduates saying, “You’re a special class. Over the past four years you’ve accomplished amazing things. You’ve created memories that have built a culture that will be remembered long after today.”

“This year marks the 30th anniversary of DVHS,” he continued. “I’ve been incredibly impressed by your kindness, resilience. The world you are entering needs exactly what you have to offer. Believe in yourselves the way I believe in you. Dream big, work hard, take chances and make a difference. Go change the world.”

Trustee Hernandez then shared about his own experience growing up in Antioch, graduating from Dozier Libbey Medical High School, going on to college and now, in med school.

DVHS Senior Class President Amanda Brown (left) and Valedictorian Emma Canales (center) speak to the graduates. AUSD Associate Superintendent Dr. Camille Johnson (right) accepts the Class of 2026.

Green introduced Senior Class President Amanda Brown saying, “She will attend (Cal State) Fullerton in the fall and study early childhood development. She has also been awarded the City of Antioch’s 2025 Youth of the Year.”

She then spoke about her and her fellow graduates’ time in school and compared it to a garden of flowers referring to a poem she quoted.

“We used it to grow. Every challenge made us stronger, and every supporter gave us life,” she stated. “To our parents and teachers, thank you. Thank you for helping water our garden.”

To her classmates she concluded, “My encouragement to you is to keep building your garden.”

Green introduced Valedictorian Emma Canales saying, “She will attend U.C. Berkeley on a full-ride scholarship in the fall to study electrical and computer engineering.”

She offered thanks to her family, “who have pushed me past my limits. To everyone else, friends, teachers and mentors…who have encouraged me to become the person I am today.”

Canales then spoke of “The multiverse” and mentioned her own upbringing including the fact, “the doctor gave me to the wrong mother. My grandmother advocated for me.”

“Push back against every barrier,” she encouraged her fellow graduates. “As you move forward in your journey, take a moment to realize how much you’ve been given and you’ve given to others. I’m confident your resilience and passion you’ve demonstrated will become your best assets. Give yourself grace and humility.”

Associate Superintendent Johnson accepted “the Class of 2026 of Deer Valley High School. I certify that each of you have completed the graduation requirements of the Antioch Unified School District. Henceforth you are to be considered graduates and alumni of Deer Valley High School.”

The Divine Voices then performed, “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” and “Ad Astra” which was followed by the Reading of the Names of the graduates by DVHS Math Department Chair Maria McClain and Math Instructor Jessika Tate.

The Deer Valley Divine Voices perform “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye” during the ceremony Saturday morning.

Class President Brown then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels to officially demonstrate they had graduated, as some tossed their caps in the air in celebration.

The graduates were then led off the field by Green and Bowers during the Recessional to the sounds of the DVHS Band.

Congratulations, Class of 2026 and God bless you in your future endeavors!

Watch the DVHS 2026 graduation video.

Antioch to celebrate Juneteenth Friday, June 19th

Tuesday, June 9th, 2026

Fourth Annual event features live performances, music, food, activities for kids and adults, and more!

By City of Antioch Recreation Department

Celebrate this Juneteenth with the City of Antioch! This free annual city-sponsored Juneteenth Celebration is where we come together as a city to honor freedom, culture and community. Join us Friday, June 19th for a day of reflection that showcases the richness of African American heritage as we embrace the vibrancy and resiliency of Black culture. This event features live performances, music, food, activities for kids and adults, and so much more!

What Is Juneteenth?

Short for June Nineteenth, Juneteenth is a holiday celebrating the 1865 emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States – marking the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to take control of the state and ensure the freedom of all remaining enslaved people. Texas became the first U.S. state to celebrate Juneteenth in 1979. Officially becoming a U.S. federal holiday in June of 2021, the City of Antioch is proud to present our fourth annual Juneteenth Celebration.

Entertainment

The Antioch Juneteenth Celebration music line up is here!

DURTI RYCE Featuring DERON will light up the stage with a tribute to the one and only Frankie Beverly, an icon of soul and R&B!

Oh, we’re not done. We are also excited to welcome powerhouse songstress, MONIQUE RENEE who will grace the stage with a tribute to Lady T, Teena Marie!

Two acts, two unforgettable icons to be honored, one incredible night. Join us for food, games, fun, and memories at this year’s Antioch Juneteenth Celebration.

We’ll see you there!

FRIDAY, JUNE 19th, 2026

4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Williamson Ranch Park, Antioch, CA

For more information visit Juneteenth Celebration | Antioch, CA.

Antioch High graduates 330 in the Class of 2026

Sunday, June 7th, 2026
The Antioch High School Class of 2026 graduates toss their caps into the air to celebrate inside Eells Stadium as the sun sets on Friday night, June 5, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton

Smallest class size in years

By Allen D. Payton

During an evening Commencement Ceremony on Friday, June 5, 2026, the 330 members of the Antioch High School Class of 2026 celebrated with family and friends their four-year accomplishment inside the school’s Eells Stadium.

In the program Principal John Jimno wrote, “It is with great pride that I present to you the Class of 2026. The administration and staff of Antioch High School believe that these young people are well prepared to embark upon the next phase of their lives…what a journey they have ahead of them!

“I hope this occasion, shared with families and friends, will create fond memories to last for many years to come. This presentation is a well-documented rite of passage from childhood to adulthood and is very meaningful to the graduates and their families. This commencement ceremony exemplifies the high standards of Antioch High School and its students, staff and community. Congratulations, Class of 2026!”

Antioch High ASB President Kailani Torres with her diploma. Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams accepts the class.

Following their entrance to the traditional sounds of Pomp and Circumstance and the playing of the National Anthem, known as The Star-Spangled Banner, the classmates and all in attendance were welcomed by ASB President Kailani Torres.

Jimno introduced the dignitaries including four members of the Antioch Unified School District Board of Trustees, Vice President Olga Cobos Smith, Mary Rocha, Dee Brown and Antonio Hernandez, Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams, Director of Educational Services Dr. Lindsay Lopez-Wisely and City Councilmembers Tamisha Torres-Walker and Louie Rocha, the past principal of Antioch High.

Antioch High Class of 2026 Salutatorian McKeyla Feliciano speaks to her fellow graduates as Valedictorian Daniel Fung looks on.

Jimno then introduced Salutatorian McKeyla Feliciano and Valedictorian Daniel Fung who addressed the graduates.

Feliciano spoke of perseverance and shared memories of her high school experience.

“I believe in you all,” she said. “We are young, we are foolish, we have dreams. Hashtag, keep going.”

Valedictorian Fung said, “Thank you for raising a real goat” meaning greatest of all time, to laughter from his classmates.

Antioch High Class of 2026 Valedictorian Daniel Fung speaks to his classmates as Salutatorian McKeyla Feliciano looks on.

“I wanted high school to end before it even started. I wanted to stay at home all day and play video games. I was always dreaming about my future,” he continued. “The future is today for all of us. I was wrong. High school wasn’t so bad. Sometimes I wish it was a little bit longer.”

“I was always afraid of change. Now, I see it is beautiful,” Fung stated. “Thank you, high school for teaching me that.”

“It’s not about how you finish. It’s about how you navigate this world and make this life uniquely yours. Be ambitious. We are dreamers. So, let’s keep dreaming,” he concluded.

Antioch High School Principal John Jimno speaks to the graduates and celebrates with his son, Matthew who graduated Friday night.

Jimno then spoke saying, “This class is special.” He then mentioned that he would be watching his “son Matthew graduate tonight.” To the graduates he said, “I’ve spent the last seven years watching you grow up from little kids to adults. Watching you showcase your talents has been amazing.”

“Carry yourself with confidence, continue to work hard and follow your passion,” Jimno concluded.

AUSD Trustee Mary Rocha speaks to the graduates and celebrates with her granddaughter Miley Fernandez who graduated Friday night.

Trustee Mary Rocha representing the board spoke next. She mentioned Jimno’s son graduating and then said, “I have my granddaughter graduating, here. So, we’re a family. Today, my final family member will graduate, Miley Fernandez.”

Rocha spoke first in Spanish then in English.

“I want to acknowledge the great sacrifice of your parents and family in your academic achievement.
What an exciting time for all and fear for what the future holds,” she continued. “You’ve been given the tools. Congratulations Class of 2026.”

Before officially accepting the class, Dr. Williams said, “You all did it and you did it big. Always question the status quo. The world needs more people to step forward when others step back. The future is not something that happens to you, it is something you come to shape.”

She then accepted “the 2026 Class from Antioch High School…upon the recommendation of the faculty and Board of Trustees.”

The graduates’ names were then read, and their diplomas were presented to them by a few of their teachers, Sandy Bentancourt, Melissa Johnson, Jeff Meeks and Andre TimTim.

Antioch High 2026 Senior Class President Alanna-Joi Sheard with Principal Jimno before offering closing remarks and leading her classmates in the turning of their tassels.

Closing Remarks were offered by Senior Class President Alanna-Joi Sheard who then then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels signifying they had officially graduated.

Many tossed their caps into the air before family and friends joined them on the field to celebrate.

See AHS 2026 graduation video (beginning at the 24:25 mark).

Congratulations, Antioch High Class of 2026! God bless you in your future endeavors.

Cornerstone Christian high school champion basketball teams honored by Antioch City Council, Sports Legends

Saturday, June 6th, 2026
The Cornerstone Christian School championship basketball teams were honored by the Antioch City Council on April 14, 2026. Photo: City of Antioch

By Allen D. Payton

During their meeting on April 14, 2026, the Antioch City Council honored both the Cornerstone Christian School Cougars boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams for their state championships this year. In addition, on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Antioch Sports Legends hosted and honored the teams, in their wing inside the Antioch Historical Museum.

Source: CIF

The undefeated boys’ team won the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Boys Division III State Championship defeating the Birmingham Patriots of Lake Balboa, CA, 74-64 at the Golden One Center in Sacramento on March 13th. They ended their season with a 29-8 overall record and 12-0 for first place in league. (See game video)

The boys’ basketball team was also the 2024 North Coast Section (NCS) and Norcal State Champions.

Photo courtesy of Cornerstone Christian School.
Source: MaxPreps
Source: CIF

The undefeated, number one seeded girls’ team won the NorCal Girls Division VI Championship by dominating and defeating the number two seed Redding Christian Lions 48-27 inside the Cornerstone Christian gym on March 11th. They ended the season with a record of 27-7 and 10-0 for first place in league. (See game video)

The girls’ team was also the 2023 NCS and Norcal State Champions.

Photo courtesy of Cornerstone Christian School.
Source: MaxPreps

The City Council’s proclamation reads as follows:

RECOGNITION HONORING CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL’S

2026 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TEAMS

APRIL 2026

WHEREAS, Cornerstone Christian Center and Cornerstone Christian School have long served as valued institutions in the Antioch community, fostering spiritual growth, community engagement,

and a commitment to developing young people of purpose, integrity, and service;

WHEREAS, Cornerstone Christian School has built a strong reputation for providing an education that supports the development of students academically, spiritually, and athletically, while

encouraging excellence, discipline, leadership, and character;

WHEREAS, throughout the 2025–2026 basketball season, both the Cornerstone Christian School Girls and Boys High School Basketball Teams demonstrated extraordinary perseverance, teamwork, sportsmanship, and dedication, representing their school and the City of Antioch with pride and distinction;

WHEREAS, the Cornerstone Christian School Girls Basketball Team achieved an exceptional milestone by winning the 2026 CIF State Division VI Championship, reflecting the team’s resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to excellence;

WHEREAS, the Cornerstone Christian School Boys Basketball Team achieved a historic accomplishment by securing the 2026 CIF State Championship, establishing a new legacy of excellence for the school and bringing great pride to the Antioch community;

WHEREAS, these accomplishments reflect not only the talent and hard work of the student-athletes, but also the invaluable leadership of coaches, the support of families, and the strength of the broader Cornerstone Christian School community; and

WHEREAS, the success of these teams has brought honor to the City of Antioch and serves as an inspiration to future generations to pursue excellence in athletics, academics, and character.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RON BERNAL, Mayor of the City of Antioch, hereby proclaim April 14, 2026, as a day of recognition honoring the Cornerstone Christian School, Girls and Boys Basketball Teams for their 2026 CIF State Championship victories, and extend sincere congratulations to the student-athletes, coaches, school leadership, families, and the entire Cornerstone Christian School community.

APRIL 14, 2026

RON BERNAL, Mayor

(See council meeting video beginning at the 25:08 mark)

Cornerstone Christian, CIF Boys Div. III State Basketball Champions Left to right: Alkeise Boddie, Brian McMurtrie, Pierre Tyson, Benjamin Lukacs, Elijah Longstreth, Marijan Kelly, James Perry, Tom Menasco (ASL Co-Founder), Jaden Taylor-West, Head Coach Michael Thomasson, Anthony Thomasson, Eddie Beaudin (ASL Co-Founder), Amari Woodard, Antonio Coleman, Jacob Williams, Ethan Banks. Not pictured: Ryan Seto, Uriah Wade, Ethan Banks, Brian McMurtrie, Assistant Coaches Thomas Brown, Tyree Murray, Jaden Shyne, Terrell Woodard. Photo: Antioch Sports Legends

Antioch Sports Legends Also Honor Teams

According to a May 29th post on their Facebook page, the “Antioch Sports Legends had the honor of welcoming the Cornerstone Christian High School varsity basketball teams to the museum to celebrate an incredible season!

“The students-athletes had the opportunity to explore the Sports Legends Hall of Fame—many for the very first time.

“We proudly recognized two outstanding teams:

CIF Boys Division III State Champions the Cornerstone Christian HS Boys Team

NorCal Girls Division VI Champions the Cornerstone Christian HS Girls Team

Azariah Wiley, Camille Bartolo, Kayli Bertrand, Tom Menasco (ASL Co-Founder), Coach Ariel Jackson, Eddie Beaudin (ASL Co-Founder), Jada Mayse, Danielle Balogun, Sanaa Boykin, Evalyn Mucio, Alexandrea Hall, Kenenna Amajioyi. Not pictured Laila Alexander, Bre’ah Butler, Bri’elle Phillips, Head Coach Madison Alexander. Photo: Antioch Sports Legends

“A special thank you to Gary Bras and Kris Del Monte for organizing this memorable event, and to Sports Legends co-founders Tom Menasco and Eddie Beaudin for presenting awards to these talented student-athletes.

“Congratulations to Cornerstone Christian High School on a remarkable year—we are proud to celebrate your success and dedication both on and off the court.”

Both teams were presented with plaques bearing the Antioch Sports Legends logo recognizing their accomplishments.

The Antioch Sports Legends is located inside the Antioch Historical Museum at 1500 W. 4th Street. For more information visit www.antiochsportslegends.com.

About Cornerstone Christian High School

Cornerstone Christian School provides a well-rounded academic, extra-curricular, and spiritual experience. The foundational purpose of our facilities, programs, curriculum choices, and most of all our dedicated teachers and staff is to inspire your child in the joy of learning and a love for God and His Son Jesus. We want to partner with you, the parent, to bring about the best in your child. The school is located at 1745 E. 18th Street in Antioch. For more information visit www.cornerstonechristianschool.net.

Contra Costa elections update shows no changes in county races, measures

Friday, June 5th, 2026

But margin of defeat for Measure G’s college district bond narrows

Second place races for 14th Assembly District narrows, 10th Congressional District widens but still too close to call

By Allen D. Payton

According to the Contra Costa Elections Division Update 1, as of Friday, June 5, 2026, at 3:44 PM a total of 267,760 ballots have been counted for a 36.6 percent voter turnout in the county, so far. But the additional ballots have not resulted in any changes to the winners in the four contested countywide races of Superintendent of Schools, Assessor, Auditor-Controller and Clerk-Recorder-Registrar. Nor in the races for the 11th, 15th and 16th Assembly Districts or 8th and 9th Congressional Districts. While Measure A is still passing and Measures B and G are still failing, the margin of defeat for Measure G has narrowed. (See related article)

Contra Costa countywide offices Primary Election Results Update 1 as of Friday, June 5, 2026. Source: CCC Elections Division

Dr. Dana Eaton’s dominating lead over Dr. Jag Lathan for Superintendent has increased from 63,800 votes on Election Night to 92,179. But Eaton’s share of the vote decreased from 73.44% to 72.12%.

Vince Robb’s commanding lead in the Assessor’s race over his two opponents, Nick Spinner and Kismat Kathrani, has increased from 66,516 to 99,549 and from 85,909 to 130,261 votes, respectively. But Robb’s share of the vote decreased slightly from 67.99% to 67.66%. Because he has received more than 50% of the vote, he will not have to face off against the second-place finisher in November.

In the Auditor-Controller’s race, Peter Karumbi’s insurmountable lead increased from 79,449 votes on Election Night to 119,202 over Deepika Naharas. But his share of the vote decreased from 79.23% to 78.87%.

Finally, in the Clerk-Recorder-Registrar’s race, incumbent Kristin Connelly is soundly defeating her opponent, Pratima Sonavne by the widest margin of the four countywide contests by 161,995 votes for 87.08% of the vote. That is a slight increase over the Election Night results of 87.02% of the vote.

Election Results from Update 1 as of June 5, 2026. Source: CCC Elections Division

No Changes to Results for Countywide Ballot Measures

In the three countywide ballot measures, no changes occurred due to the additional votes included in Friday’s updated results as Measure A is still passing and Measures B and G still failing.

Measure A, the Urban Limit Line renewal vote is still winning, now by 95,353 votes or 69.81% of the vote, an increase over Election Night results of 67.91%.

Measure B, the County’s 0.625% sales tax increase is now failing by 36,562 votes with 57.91% of the vote against, a slight decrease over Election Night results of 59.04% opposing.

Finally, the updated results for Measure G, the community college district’s bond measure, which requires a 55% vote to pass, show an increase in support. It is now failing by just 4,049 votes or 50.83% to 49.17% of voters in favor, closing the margin of defeat by 6,285 votes. In order to pass, the measure will need over 62% of the remaining votes to be in support.

Election results as of Friday, June 5, 2026. Source: CA Secretary of State

Two Contests Too Close to Call

There are two races in the county listed on the California Secretary of State’s Close Contests webpage.

In the 14th Assembly District, the race for second place to determine who will take on incumbent Democrat Buffy Wicks in November, has narrowed from 2,085 votes on Election Night to just 950 votes. Republican Borgar Solnordal now has 9,357 votes or 10.0% and Green Party candidate Mark Rendon has 8,407 or 9.0% of the vote. That seat includes most of West County and portions of Alameda County.

In the 10th Congressional District, which covers most of Contra Costa County, the current second place finisher, Republican Jeff Frese has expanded his lead over fellow Republican challenger, Katherine Piccinini to 2,956, a total of 112 more votes than on Election Night. Frese now has 24,115 votes or 13.5% to Piccini’s 21,159 or 11.8% of the vote. The winner between the two will determine who will face incumbent Democrat Representative Mark DeSaulnier in November.

Election results as of June 5, 2026. Source: CA Secretary of State

Remaining Ballots, More Arriving

There are currently 55,200 ballots remaining to be processed. But according to Contra Costa County Assistant Registrar Helen Nolan, ballots postmarked by election day can still arrive at the Elections office by next Tuesday, June 9th at 5:00 p.m. So, the total number of remaining ballots is expected to increase.

Following is the breakdown of the estimated number of current unprocessed ballots:

Ballots voted at a voting location – 100

Vote-by-mail ballots received on or before Election Day – 28,500

Vote-by-mail ballots received after Election Day – 24,000

Provisional ballots – 100

Conditional Voter Registration Provisional ballots – 1,000

Other (In Review, Damaged) – 1,500

Total – 55,200 The next results update is expected on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 4:00

Five arrested for retail theft at Antioch Target store

Friday, June 5th, 2026
A woman and man are two of five arrested for retail theft of the Antioch Target store and the gun and stolen items confiscated on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Photos: Antioch PD

One suspect celebrated his 54th birthday in county jail, 30-year-old female accomplice has history of arrests

By Allen D. Payton

The Antioch Police Department shared on Thursday, June 4, 2026, “We teamed up with the Target Corporation for a proactive enforcement operation at our local Target store on Lone Tree Way. The mission was clear: disrupt organized retail crime, stop ongoing theft, and keep our shopping centers safe through proactive surveillance and rapid intervention.

“Thanks to the seamless teamwork between our officers and Target’s asset protection team, the operation successfully removed a dangerous weapon and multiple offenders from our streets.

“The Results:

  • 2 Felony arrests
  • 3 Misdemeanor arrests
  • Approx. $1,000 in stolen merchandise recovered
  • 1 Illegally possessed, loaded handgun seized.

“We deeply value our local business owners and workers. We remain committed to working hand in hand with them to prevent crime, protect their livelihoods, and ensure a safe environment for everyone who lives, works, and shops in Antioch.”

Felony Suspect Celebrates Birthday in Jail, Female Accomplice Has History of Arrests

According to Antioch PD CitizenRIMS, arrested on Thursday, June 4, 2026, were 54-year-old Robert Jack Murley on his birthday, and 30-year-old Sarah Lynn Garcia, together, as well as 51-year-old Patrick Joseph McCloud and 27-year-old Giovanna Elizabeth Villanueva Vela.

6/10/26 UPDATE: According to Lt. Franco Caesar, the fifth person arrested was Eric Linsey, an 18-year-old Black male from Antioch who stole lotion and cheese. He was charged with a misdemeanor.

The five-foot, eight-inch tall, 165-pound Murley is White and was arrested at 1:31 p.m. for five felonies. His charges include conspiracy to commit a crime (F), carrying a concealed weapon on a person (F), possession of a non-registered firearm (F), felon or addict in possession/etc. of a firearm (F), and petty theft with two or more priors – shoplifting (F).

The five-foot, three-inch tall, 115-pound Garcia is White, was also arrested at 1:31 p.m. for two felonies. She was charged with petty theft with two or more priors – shoplifting (F) and conspiracy to commit a crime (F).

Murley’s and Garcia’s Case Number is 26-5110 and the Incident Number is 2606040140.

The six-foot, three-inch tall, 180-pound McCloud is White and was arrested at 12:39 p.m. and/or 7:00 p.m. for misdemeanor shoplifting. He was issued a summons and cited. His Case Number is 26-5125.

The five-foot, two-inch tall, 135-pound Villanueva Vela is Hispanic and was arrested at 4:38 p.m., also for misdemeanor shoplifting. She was also issued a summons and cited. Her Case Number is 26-5117 and the Incident Number is 2606040140.

According to Antioch PD CitizenRIMS the details of Linsey’s arrest are as follows:

Shoplifting (M)  Crime: 459.5(A) PC  Crime Type: Larceny/theft  Crime Classification: Misdemeanor
Address: 5700 Block of Lone Tree Way, Antioch  Occurred: 6/4/2026 at 4:40 PM
Case Number: 26-5119 Incident Number: 2606040140

No additional information about the suspect could be found in an online search.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, Murley, born 6/4/1972, is Hispanic and being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on no bail.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Garcia, born 3/22/1996, is Hispanic and being held in the Martinez Detention Facility on no bail. She has an out-of-county court date scheduled for June 8th at 1:30 p.m.

According to localcrimenews.com, Garcia is from Antioch and has a history of 11 arrests since 2023, for crimes including vehicle theft, grand theft, receiving stolen property, possession of burglar’s tools, drug possession and on March 24th by Antioch Police for false impersonation of another in his/her private or official capacity for a second time.

According to localcrimenews.com, McCloud lives in Richmond and was arrested Oct. 4, 2025, for possession of a narcotic controlled substance and on March 25, 2026, for warrants or holds only.

Man arrested for breaking Antioch restaurant windows identified

Thursday, June 4th, 2026
Donald Guenther was arrested by Antioch Police on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, for the vandalism at Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Restaurant Bar & Grill on Saturday, May 23rd. Photos by Antioch PD

46-year-old Donald Guenther has history of over 30 arrests

By Antioch Police Department

On May 27, 2026 the Antioch Police Department posted the following: “WTF! We saw your post, recognized your vandal and located him yesterday. He was booked into the Martinez Main Jail on felony vandalism charges.

“Over last weekend an uncouth vandal took aim at the front windows of the WTF restaurant on Hillcrest Avenue with a rock. After seeing the photos of the responsible on video, several officers recognized him. Teams immediately responded to the area and located him several blocks from the crime scene. He was arrested without issue and booked into Jail.

“Thanks for your continued support Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Restaurant Bar & Grill.”

According to the Antioch Police CitizenRIMS the incident occurred on Saturday, May 23rd at 1:06 AM. The suspect was identified by Captain Matt Koch on Thursday, June 4th as 46-year-old Donald Guenther of Antioch.

According to localcrimenews.com, Guenther has a history of over 30 arrests dating back to 2014. He was charged with rape, multiple times with vandalism including for over $5,000 a few times, gun and drug crimes, failure to appear, as well as receiving stolen property and unlawful use of willfully obtained personal identifying information.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Dozier-Libbey Medical High School celebrates 150 Class of 2026 graduates

Thursday, June 4th, 2026
Dozier-Libbey Medical High School Class of 2026 graduates toss their caps into the air in celebration Wednesday night, June 3, 2026. Photos by Allen D. Payton

By Allen D. Payton

Antioch’s Dozier-Libbey Medical High School Class of 2026 celebrated their graduation Wednesday evening, June 3, 2026. The 150 graduates were cheered by family and friends inside the Deer Valley High Wolverines Stadium.

The 150 members of the DLMHS Class of 2026 participate in Wednesday night’s Graduation Ceremony.

Following the Presentation of the Colors by the U.S. Navy, the National Anthem was performed by Daniela Edeh and Rachelle Leon. The Pledge of Allegiance was then led by ASB President Bethany Fumar.

Principal Blair Wilkins welcomed everyone and introduced the distinguished guests which included four Antioch Unified School Board Trustees, Antonio Hernandez, Mary Rocha, Olga Cobo Smith and Dee Brown, Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams and Dr. Camille Johnson, Associate Superintendent for Human Resources.

The grads shared on their caps personal messages and the colleges they plan to attend in the fall.

Area 1 Trustee Hernandez, a member of the first DLMHS graduating class, offered opening remarks to the graduates. “It’s always great to be back with the amazing students of Dozier-Libbey Medical High School.” Speaking of his own college education experience he encouraged the Class, “You can always find new ways to reopen doors that people tell you are closed.”

Valedictorian Natalia Cortez speaks as members of the district leadership look on.

The Student Commencement Speakers were Senior Class President Daniela Edeh, who spoke about change and Valedictorian Natalia Cortez, who encouraged her classmates by saying, “The greater the struggle, the greater the triumph.”

The class Salutatorian was Jose Perez, who did not speak during the ceremony.

Before Wilkins presented the Class of 2026 to Superintendent Williams he said, “You are prepared to face all of life’s adversities because you attended and successfully completed Dozier-Libbey Medical High School’s graduation requirements.”

AUSD Superintendent Dr. Darnise Williams offers her Acceptance of the Class of 2026.

Williams then said, “I certify that each of you has completed the graduation requirements set forth by the Antioch Unified School District. I proudly confer upon each of you the high school diploma with all its rights, honors and responsibilities. Henceforth, you are to be considered high school graduates and alumni of Dozier-Libbey Medical High School. Congratulations.”

Trustees Antonio Hernandez (left) and Olga Cobos Smith hand out the diplomas and take photos with the graduates.

Kevin Landski, a teacher at the school, then announced the graduates’ names as they received their diplomas and took photos with the trustees.

Wilkins then certified the graduating class saying, “I certify Dozier-Libbey Medical High School’s Class of 2026” to loud applause from the graduates and audience.

DLMHS Principal Blair Wilkins issues the Certification of the Class of 2026.

Class President Edeh then led her classmates in the turning of their tassels completing the ceremonies. “Congratulations. We are now graduates,” she said, as several of them tossed their caps into the air in celebration.

Senior Class President Daniela Edeh leads her classmates in the turning of their tassels.

Wilkins and Landski then led the graduates off the field to meet their families and friends for further celebration.

The DLMHS Class of 2026 graduates turn their tassels to complete the ceremony.

Congratulations, Dozier-Libbey Class of 2026. God bless you in your future endeavors!

See the Dozier-Libbey 2026 graduation video by DVTV.