NAPA, CA – Crews from Napa city worked diligently last Thursday, February 6, to clear Oxbow Commons of debris left behind by the swollen Napa River. The efforts came after a week of heavy storms, which prompted the county to close the McKinstry Street floodgates. This measure allowed rising river waters to flow into the flood bypass channel, mitigating the risk of further damage to the area.
In a separate development, the Stanly Lane pumpkin patch, a familiar local landmark, has been put up for sale for a staggering $14 million. Despite the sale, the Wilcoxson family, who have owned the property for years, has not ruled out the possibility of reopening the patch this fall, depending on the new owner’s plans.
Meanwhile, the effects of the storm were felt across Napa County, including in more rural areas. A bridge over Conn Creek, located in the unincorporated parts of Napa County, sustained significant damage during the recent weather events. The bridge has been rendered unsafe for use and will require repairs before it can be reopened to traffic.
On the legal front, Porfirio Sanchez was sentenced to six months in jail last Friday for his role in a fatal crash that claimed the lives of Christian and Michelle Deaton in 2023. The crash occurred when Sanchez, while driving a lumber delivery truck, lost control and collided with the Deatons’ vehicle. The sentencing marks the conclusion of a highly publicized case, as the community continues to process the tragic event.
As Napa recovers from the effects of the storms, residents remain resilient, focused on rebuilding and moving forward after the significant disruptions.