Top 10 Must-Read Stories of 2024 – Your Favorites Revealed

In an overview of the most impactful stories of the year, we examine the top 10 most-read articles that captured the interest of our readers.

1. CAFFEINE CRASH

In February, Dutch Bros Coffee scrapped plans for a new location in Maricopa, shortly after announcing its corporate relocation from Grants Pass, Oregon, to Phoenix. The company had submitted application documents in July 2023 for a drive-thru on Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway, but its silence over the following months culminated in the decision to abandon the project. This left local coffee enthusiasts disappointed, as the existing Dutch Bros store opened back in 2019.

2. COACH OF THE YEAR

In June, former Desert Sunrise High School football coach Ryan Portee was arrested following a road rage incident that was publicized by InMaricopa. Video footage revealed Portee, 50, threatening to kill 21-year-old Jordin Amato at an intersection. With a troubling history of traffic violations, including DUI and reckless driving, Portee lost his coaching positions at both Desert Sunrise and Sequoia Pathway Academy. He now faces charges of threatening, intimidating, and disorderly conduct.

3. DEADLIEST CATCH

Leanne Lemman, 45, found herself in dire circumstances in June when, while evading police, she ran a red light and fatally struck 69-year-old cyclist Mark Alexander. Lemman was already under scrutiny for theft from an employer and had evaded arrest for months. Now facing multiple felony charges, she is held in Pinal County jail on a $20,000 bond, with potential for even more charges stemming from her alleged fraud across the state.

4. VAPID TRANSIT

In November, the Pinal Regional Transportation Authority announced the suspension of its operations after nearly ten years of unsuccessful initiatives. The plan to improve State Route 347 was declared “unfeasible,” resulting in the board halting its activities. Although the original funding through a voter-approved sales tax was overturned by the Arizona Supreme Court, a new half-cent local sales tax is being considered to generate future revenue.

5. HIGHS AND LOWE’S

January brought news of an impending hardware superstore in Maricopa, confirmed by Lowe’s Home Improvement. Developed by Thompson Thrift, this 130,000-square-foot store is under construction at South Bridge Marketplace and promises additional retail options in the area. A 30,000-square-foot garden center is part of the project, catering to the demand for goods and services in the region. Phase two includes plans for an Aldi supermarket, further expanding grocery options for residents.

6. TEEN SUICIDE

In September, the community mourned the loss of 19-year-old Zack Born, who died by suicide. Battling autism and depression, Zack had donated his organs after his passing, reminding many of the fragility of mental health. His mother, Patty Born, a psychiatric nurse, has since been advocating for awareness on issues such as bullying, urging parents to engage in open conversations about mental health struggles.

7. FOUGHT THE LAW

October saw the release of video evidence from a tragic motorcycle crash linked to a police pursuit. Demetrius Catus, 29, was killed when he lost control of his bike during a chase initiated by Sgt. Michael Ewald. Catus was traveling at nearly triple the speed limit when he crashed. An investigation is ongoing, examining potential contributing factors, including a history of DUI charges.

8. THROWN FOR A LOOP

The City of Maricopa introduced a feasibility study for a new Green Road loop in November, designed to alleviate congestion on State Route 347. By providing a bypass on the city’s west side, this project hopes to spur development and generate revenue. The proposed plans include new roads, sidewalks, and enhanced landscaping, potentially reshaping local traffic dynamics.

9. MURDER IN THE MEADOWS

In November, a shooting incident claimed the life of 16-year-old Esteban Valenzuela in Maricopa. He was found injured and later confirmed to have died from gunshot wounds. Following a vigil where family members expressed their grief, police arrested two 15-year-olds in connection with the case during a SWAT raid, and a third suspect was later identified.

10. TRAGEDY ON RIGGS ROAD

December concluded with a heartbreaking accident on Riggs Road, closing a significant stretch of roadway. A motorcyclist, identified as 38-year-old Dustin Michael Tappe, was killed in the crash. His widow, Melody Rose Tappe, voiced her anguish over the loss of her husband, seeking clarity on the incident that resulted in his untimely death.

Honorable Mention

SURREAL ESTATE

In June, Maricopa stood out for its unconventional real estate options, featuring unique homes that defy traditional architectural norms. From a beach-themed property to a striking pyramid-shaped residence, creativity flourished within the unincorporated areas. These eclectic designs offer a glimpse into the diverse tastes of homebuyers in the region.