Butane torches

Butane torches

Butane torches—sold widely in everyday stores—are being linked to a growing number of explosions, structure fires, and severe burn injuries in Oregon, including burns so deep they can lead to amputations. Investigative reporter Spencer Schacht explains doctors at the Legacy Oregon Burn Center are seeing many cases connected to people using torches to smoke drugs; the biggest danger is the torch’s locking mechanism that can keep the flame on, especially if someone passes out from fentanyl while it’s still burning. The episode (hosted by investigative reporter Ward Jolles with guest Spencer Schacht) highlights proposed solutions: harm-reduction education now, and potential legislation next session to redesign/ban “flame-locking” mechanisms.

Rubicon Fire Restoration

FOX12 reporter Ezra Kaplan and photographer/editor Frank Frenzel discuss their recent story in Rowena following a wildfire, where Team Rubicon volunteers helped residents by cutting down dangerous “hazard trees” that need to be cleared before the rebuilding process can begin. Frank and Ezra reflect on the human impact of returning months after the disaster—how complex, expensive, and emotionally heavy rebuilding is—and why Team Rubicon’s free labor provided real, tangible hope for families who otherwise couldn’t move forward.

Longview chemical spill

FOX 12 Investigative Reporter Ezra Kaplan and FOX 12 Reporter Julia Lopez talk about covering a deadly chemical spill in Longview, Washington.

Health benefits of float therapy

A Northeast Portland woman says that her go-to method for managing chronic pain, stress, and anxiety has been participating in Float Therapy. The process? Sitting alone with your thoughts in a sensory deprivation environment, floating in water so dense that you couldn’t sink even if you tried. In this episode of Beyond the Broadcast, reporter Nora Hart takes the plunge, and talks about what she didn’t expect to experience during her time at Float North. Watch the full Beyond the Broadcast episode exclusively on the FOX 12 Streaming App. Download today on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV or Apple TV.

Challenges to Citizenship

A married couple trying to navigate the U.S. immigration system through legal channels received a deportation notice earlier this year.  In early 2024, the couple filed for an I-130 petition for Andres, a common first step toward permanent residency for immigrants married to U.S. citizens. Two years later, Andres received a notice to appear at a court hearing for deportation. Now the couple is struggling with legal red tape as Andres and Steve’s I-130 petition appointment is scheduled for this spring, ahead of Andres’ deportation hearing set for this summer – leaving the family waiting for answers. https://www.kptv.com/2026/02/23/three-steps-forward-two-steps-back-washington-couple-shares-years-long-immigration-fight/