Largest Fire In State History; Hands Of Peace: Top CA Stories

CALIFORNIA – It was another busy news week across California. Missed the headlines on Patch? Whether you're looking for breaking or bizarre news, or sweet or silly features, we've rounded up some of the most share-worthy stories from the past week.

Take a look back at the top 12 news stories across the state over the past week. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

1. Mendocino Complex Fire Is Now The Largest In California History

Officials said the fire is nearly the size of Los Angeles.

Also see:

• CA Wildfires Latest: Mechanic Assigned To Carr Fire Dies
• California Wildfires: Trump Says State Needs Water, Fewer Trees

2. Holy Fire At 18,137 Acres: 'We Cannot Get Ahead Of The Fire'

Here is the latest on evacuations, size, containment and more related to the massive Holy Fire.

Also see:

• 26 Incredible Images Of The Holy Fire As Seen From SWR
• Holy Fire Arson Suspect Refuses To Leave His Cell For Arraignment

3. Plane Crash Kills 5, Cessna Registered To San Francisco Company

Five people killed Sunday in an Orange County plane crash were identified Monday, one victim was from Los Angeles & four from the Bay Area.

• Also see: Fund Honors Plane Crash Victims From Danville, Alamo And Diablo

4. Death Of Former Inmate Prompts Push To End Late Night Releases

An advocacy group aims to “end the dangerous practice of late night releases.”

5. Banning Students Return To Class, But Teachers Notably Absent

The Banning Teachers Association is on strike, on the first day of the 2018-2019 school year.

6. Navy Helicopter Crewman Killed In Accident At North Island

Helicopter Aircrewman 1st Class Jonathan Richard Clement died in a fuel tank accident at Naval Air Station North Island, officials said.

• Also see: Camp Pendleton Marine Reported Missing Near Philippines

7. CHP Officer Killed On I-80 Near Fairfield

Solano County California Highway Patrol Officer Kirk Griess died in the collision near Manuel Campos Parkway, according to officials.

8. Calif. Teen Says Postal Worker Saved Her From Sex Trafficking

The South Sacramento postal worker heard 'desperate crying' from behind a tree. That's when he found the 16-year-old girl.

9. 'Brady Bunch' House Mystery Buyer Revealed!

While HGTV celebrates its groovy plans for one of America's most famous homes, losing bidder Lance Bass is crying, 'Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!'

• Also see: Mystery Buyer Outbids Lance Bass for 'Brady Bunch' House

10. Hands Of Peace Brings Together Jewish, Muslim And Christian Teens

Israeli, Palestinian and American teens came together in Carlsbad this summer for dialogue, conflict resolution and leadership training.

FOR THE WEEKEND:

• Jazz Summer Fest; Coaster Campout; Kids Carnival: NorCal Weekend
• Polo Cup; Fiesta Music Festival; Jazz In The Pines: SoCal Weekend

Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images