Released Murder Suspect Located in Florence
A 26-year-old murder suspect mistakenly released from the Multnomah County Jail earlier this week has been arrested in Florence. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office says Ty Sage was indicted in May on charges of second-degree murder and first-degree robbery in the 2021 killing of Lowgunn Ivey. Sage appeared for a bail hearing September 17th and was mistakenly allowed to post bail, leading to his release September 22nd. He was taken into custody without incident around 1 p.m. yesterday at a gas station off Highway 101 in Florence. A preliminary review shows the sheriff’s office misinterpreted a court order, and a full inquiry is underway. Sage is being held without bail. Sheriff Morrisey O’Donnell apologized, saying Lowgunn’s family “deserved better.”
Military Museum Moves Forward
The Oregon Coast Military Museum has announced the formation of a new board of directors following major changes earlier this month. At a September 19th executive meeting, board members accepted the resignations of Geoff Cannon and Gary Cannon, then dissolved the prior board. Several former officers, employees, and volunteers — including the Cannons, Patrick Ritter and Tabitha Pitts — are no longer associated with the museum. A new board was convened September 23rd, naming William Rose as president, Darrel Haggard vice president, and Kim McDaniel treasurer, with Erin Leonard-Durrant, Brian Barnard, and Larry Gallagher also serving as directors. A secretary will be selected later. The museum remains closed while the new board focuses on repairs and revitalization, with officials promising continued updates and a renewed commitment to preserving military history on the Oregon Coast.
Florence Festival of Books
The 14th annual Florence Festival of Books takes place tomorrow at the Florence Events Center, hosted by the Florence Arts, Culture and Entertainment group. The event begins at 9:30 and runs through 5:30, with keynote speaker and Hawai‘i-based author Toby Neal headlining. Nearly 50 exhibitors, including authors and publishers, will be on hand, along with five workshops focused on publishing and podcasting. Admission is three dollars for the exhibit hall, or five dollars for all-access to workshops and speakers. Students 18 and under get in free.