Puppies Dumped; Singer Murdered; Photos Returned: 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 10 news stories across the state over the past week.

1. 936 DUI Arrests, 40 Killed In CA During New Year's Eve Weekend

The number of people killed was a 38 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

2. California Twins Born In Different Years

One baby was born in 2017, while the other was born in 2018.

• Also see: Baby Dies From Flu In San Diego County

3. 400-Plus CA Marijuana Businesses Receive Temporary Licenses

More than 1,800 applications to sell recreational marijuana have been submitted to the state, officials said.

• Also see: Bill Would Bar Utility Companies From Raising Rates For Fire Cost

California lawmakers introduced a bill that will prohibit electric companies from pushing costs from major disasters onto ratepayers.

4. 2018 Gas Prices Increase Across California

Gas prices are on a continued upswing across the state as Californians deal with the highest gas prices since 2014, and drivers want relief.

5. Murdered Homeless Woman Was 60s Soul Singer

A homeless woman brutally murdered in Santa Ana was a 1960s soul singer. Now, a man is charged with her killing.

6. 'Jeopardy!' Host Alex Trebek Recovering From Brain Surgery

"The prognosis is excellent and I expect to be back in the studio taping more Jeopardy programs very, very soon," Trebek said.

7. Man Molested, Threatened, Held Boys Near Temecula: Gets Life

Authorities say the man, inspired by the show 'Breaking Bad,' tried to have his victims killed.

8. Snapchat Messages Indicate Sexual Assault Of Girl, 11: Police

Santa Rosa police say a man initially caught peeping into the 11-year-old's bedroom exchanged thousands of Snapchat messages with her.

9. Stolen Photos Returned To Orange County Bride's Family

This package was stolen from a RSM porch on Christmas Eve, containing custom wedding photos, was returned in a special New Year re-delivery.

• Also see: San Juan Capistrano Kits 4 Kindness Supports NoCal Fire Victims

10. Puppies Found In San Diego Dumpster

County Animal Services is seeking information on the owner of the abandoned puppies or the identity of the person who committed the crime.

• Also see: Brutally Beaten Pit Bull Puppy Adopted, Sheriff’s Office Says

FOR THE WEEKEND:

• Iceberg Swim|Mushroom Madness|Short Film Tour: NorCal Weekend
• Dinner Cruises|Art Walk|Soap Box Derby Race: SoCal Weekend

Photo via County Animal Services