Washoe County Sheriff's Office

The Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West is officially underway!

The 107th annual Reno Rodeo is kicking off, and as tradition goes, it all begins with the Cattle Drive. After a five-day journey from Winnemucca Ranch, more than 55 riders helped guide 300 head of rodeo steers into the Biggest Little City, marking the start of one of our community’s favorite annual events.

From the sound of hooves on the pavement to crowds lining the streets, the Cattle Drive brings a special energy to Northern Nevada each year. We are proud to be part of this tradition and grateful to our Mounted Horse and Motors Units, who helped keep riders, spectators, and roadways safe as the herd made its way to the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center.

With this year’s theme, “America Loves Rodeo,” and ten days of rodeo action ahead, the excitement is just getting started.

We’ll see y’all at the Reno Rodeo!

Congratulations to the graduates of Northern Nevada Law Enforcement Academy Class 2026-01!

An important milestone was reached as eleven new deputies graduated from the Northern Nevada Law Enforcement Academy and officially joined the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.

They now join a proud tradition of service and become part of a team dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of Washoe County.

“Today marks the beginning of a career built on service and responsibility. To each of our graduates, you have earned the privilege of wearing this badge through determination, discipline, and resilience. As you begin this next chapter, never lose sight of the commitment you have made to the community you serve,” said Sheriff Darin Balaam. “We are proud of what you have accomplished and look forward to watching you grow as deputies and public servants in the years ahead. Welcome to the Washoe County Sheriff's Office family.”

Today, eleven Washoe County Sheriff’s Office deputy recruits from Northern Nevada Law Enforcement Academy Class 2026-01 took part in their swearing-in ceremony, marking an important milestone in their journey to becoming deputy sheriffs.

Over the past several months, these recruits have dedicated themselves to the rigorous training and challenges required to prepare for a career in law enforcement.

These recruits will officially graduate tomorrow and then begin the next phase of their training as they prepare to serve the citizens of Washoe County.

The 6th Annual Washoe County Honorary Deputy Sheriff’s Association Charity Golf Tournament brought together community members, partners, and supporters who share a common commitment to giving back.

The funds raised through this event help support some of our most impactful community programs, including Christmas in July and Shop with the Sheriff. Because of the generosity shown by those who participated, we will be able to continue creating meaningful opportunities and lasting memories for children and families throughout Washoe County.

“The strength of a community is measured by how willing people are to step forward and help their neighbors," said Sheriff Darin Balaam. "Every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter who participated today played a role in making a difference for local families. We are grateful for the continued partnership and generosity that help make these programs possible year after year.”

Thank you to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Honorary Deputy Sheriff’s Association and everyone who helped make this year's tournament a success. Your support extends far beyond the golf course and will have a lasting impact on families across our community.

Update | June 15 | 8:15 a.m.

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue reports the Chimney Fire is 40 percent contained and is expected to reach full containment later this evening.

Please continue to avoid the area while crews continue working the fire.

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Update | June 14 | 9:30 p.m.

Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue, in unified command with the Bureau of Land Management, has stopped the forward progress of the Chimney Fire. Fire crews will remain on scene throughout the night, securing the fire line and mopping up hot spots.

Please continue to avoid the area while crews continue working the fire.

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Public Advisory | June 14 | 8:00 p.m.

Multiple first responder agencies are working a brush fire off of Chimney Drive west of Sun Valley. The fire is estimated at approximately 15 acres. No structures are threatened at this time and no evacuations are in place.

Please avoid the surrounding area and use caution around emergency vehicles responding to the incident.

What a day at the ballpark!

The 3rd Annual Battle of the Badges Charity Softball Tournament brought together law enforcement agencies from across Northern Nevada, Nevada Wolf Pack Football, and community members for a full day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and giving back.

Congratulations to all of the teams that participated, and especially to the Washoe County Sheriff's Office teams, which battled their way to an all-WCSO championship game to cap off an incredible tournament.

While there was plenty of action on the field, the true success of the day was the support raised for Northern Nevada Chapter of COPS and the Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada. These organizations provide critical support to individuals and families during some of life's most difficult moments, and we are honored to help support their missions.

Thank you to Nevada Wolf Pack Football, our regional law enforcement partners, sponsors, volunteers, and everyone who spent the day with us at Peccole Park. Events like this are only possible because of the tremendous support we receive from our community.

We are already looking forward to next year!

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Investigating Drowning at Lake Tahoe

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m., the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a possible drowning on the north shore of Lake Tahoe in Incline Village.

Members of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office and North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District responded to the scene and located an unresponsive adult male who had been moved from the water to the shore by bystanders.

Life-saving measures were attempted by medical personnel. However, the victim was ultimately pronounced deceased.

This incident is currently being investigated as an accidental drowning by the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

We’re having a great time sharing in the fun with our community at this year’s State Fair of Nevada!

The event continues through tomorrow, so there is still time to stop by, enjoy the festivities, and say hello to our deputies and CERT volunteers!