So This Happened…Week of Dec. 11 through 17, 2023

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Dec. 17, 2023) — Pleasant Hill resident Chunliam Nai Saechao is facing nine felony counts after police say he shot his wife and fired at officers during a three-day standoff.

According to Police Chief Scott Vermillion, the suspect’s social media posts implied he wanted “suicide by cop.” However, Vermillion used time as his asset, and Saechao finally surrendered.

In a message to the public, Mayor Matt Rinn offered his perspective on the incident and the chief’s actions.

New fire initiative: About 30 residents joined Clayton Councilmember Holly Tillman at a Town Hall meeting to discuss creating Firewise communities. Tillman will initially form two communities – one within city limits and the other for the unincorporated areas of Morgan Territory and Marsh Creek Road.

Addressing tenants in the new year: After several hours of public comment, the Concord City Council continued the discussion on a Tenant Protection Ordinance until the Jan. 9 meeting. Mayor Edi Birsan cautioned that the new rules might not appease tenants or landlords.

More stories

Here are some other stories the Pioneer covered recently.

Contra Costa’s new library literacy van rolling to where need lies.

In sports: De La Salle boys soccer team helps local charities feed hundreds of families, and Marathon makes commitment to youth soccer with field renovation, plus Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Brianna Taliva’a of Clayton Valley Charter.

In Concord: City looks to mobile unit, county partnership to address homelessness, and Concord PD report.

Filmmaker travels far from Clayton in new sci-fi flick.

Meals on Wheels serving up longevity with exercise and wellness classes.

Concord Menorah lighting a bright metaphorical message for unity, peace.

Reflections on racial equity and social justice advances.

Chosen families offer love for LGBTQIA+ youth.

Concord Turkey Trot raises $20,000 for Loaves and Fishes.

Enjoy California citrus for the holidays at the Farmers Market.

How TreVista Concord transformed a woman’s assisted living experience.

Walnut Creek artist incorporates art into new life in America.

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