Top Solano County News Stories Of 2017

SOLANO COUNTY, CA — As we close the book on 2017, we take a look back at the most-read news stories on Solano County Patch sites Benicia, Suisun City and Dixon, along with nearby Davis in Yolo County. Stories about flaring at the Valero refinery and the Atlas Fire threatening Solano County were widely read, as were many other breaking news items from throughout the year. A story about the new Fairfield-Vacaville train station opening also generated plenty of interest, as did an article about a controversial billboard at Dixon May Fair.

Atlas Fire Threatens Solano County; Evacuations Underway

The massive Atlas Fire burning since Sunday in Napa County crested the ridge at Twin Sisters in Solano County, jumped to Wooden Valley Road and was moving southeast, sheriff's officials said Tuesday evening, Oct. 10, 2017. Solano County authorities have been keeping a close eye on the fire conditions, which has included mandatory evacuations in parts of rural, unincorporated Solano County west of Fairfield.

Valero Refinery Flaring: Shelter-In-Place Lifted At 2 Elementary Schools

At about 6:40 a.m. May 5, 2017 the refinery lost power for about 18 minutes, which resulted in flaring and the release of large plumes of smoke, according to a PG&E spokeswoman.

Suisun City Man Dies In Air Base Parkway Crash

Air Base Parkway was shut down until noon Saturday, Dec. 4, 2017 while investigators collected evidence and documented the scene.

Police Release Sketch of Man Who Allegedly Killed North Bay Pawn Shop Owner

The suspect is a white male, 18 to 20 years old with a thin build, blond hair and eyebrows and blue eyes.

Napa Limo Driver Was Fairfield Homicide Suspect Shot, Killed In I-80 Pursuit, Standoff

A man who died Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017 after reportedly exchanging gunfire with Fairfield and Richmond police officers on Interstate Highway 80 in Emeryville has been identified as 45-year-old Demilo Hodge. The Bay Area native owned and managed Executive Excursion Limousine Service, offering wine tours in the Napa area.

Coroner Identifies Neon Driver Killed In Collision With Big-Rig Near Dixon

The 20-year-old Elk Grove man died at the scene at 10:32 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2017 according to the Solano County coroner's office.

14 Arrested in Bay Area Human Trafficking, Prostitution Sting

Detectives in Solano County used the internet to pose as customers and contact alleged prostitutes who appeared to be underage.

UC Davis Researchers: The Potential To Block Cancer Growth May Have Been Found

Newly published UC Davis research says that specific mechanisms involved in the formation new blood vessels could block cancer growth.

Historic Benicia Home Built In 1899 Hits Market For First Time

WOW! House: Harold "Harry" Wassmann was born in the Victorian home his grandfather built on East 2nd Street.

2 Dead In Solano Co. Plane Crash: Sheriff's Office

The plane was headed from Buchanan Field in Concord to Arcata-Eureka Airport, a spokesman for the FAA said.

Solano Co. Man Admits Killing Girlfriend, Son In Arson Fire: DA

Darrylone Shuemake Sr. of Vallejo pleaded guilty Friday to the fatal events of May 22, 2016, the Solano County DA's Office says.

Benicia Man Accused Of Raping Girl, 15, He Met As Church Youth Volunteer: Police

Benicia police arrested the 21-year-old man on rape and other allegations.

Bikini Model, Term 'Midget' Axed From Dixon Fairgrounds Billboard After Complaints

Dixon May Fair officials cite complaints about "objectionable content."

Service From Fairfield-Vacaville Train Station Begins

Here's what you need to know about the new station, as well as changes to the Capitol Corridor schedule.

Dad Abandons Baby In Parking Lot, Crashes, Arrested With Cocaine: Police

The 16-day-old infant in a baby carrier was found by barber shop employees in a shopping center parking lot, police say.

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