Arizona Glance
Arizona reports 250 new virus cases, 14 more deaths
PHOENIX — Arizona health officials reported 250 new coronavirus cases on Sunday and 14 more deaths from COVID-19.
The latest numbers from the Arizona Department of Health Services bring the statewide totals to 205,766 cases and 5,221 deaths.
Arizona was a national hot spot in June and July, with cases and deaths trending downward since. Declines in several COVID-19 hospitalization metrics reported by the state have slowed recently.
The number of reported infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.
Virus relief helps bring electricity to Navajo Nation
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – More than 100 homes on the Navajo Nation have been connected to the electric grid, thanks to federal coronavirus relief funding.
The Navajo Nation said Sunday that electric line crews are working to connect more homes to the grid ahead of a December 2020 deadline to use the funds.
The Navajo Tribal Utility Authority plans to extend electricity to 510 families.
Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said in a statement that access to the electric grid can help minimize the impacts of COVID-19 for families.
The utility has been awarded $13.8 million in federal coronavirus relief funds to use for power projects; $24.7 million to increase the capacity of the electrical grid; $20.9 million for cisterns systems; $18.6 million for wastewater systems; and $32.8 million to expand wireless and broadband.
Sheriff: Inmate, 27, found dead inside cell at Tucson jail
TUCSON — An inmate was found dead Sunday in his cell at a Tucson jail.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Office said 27-year-old Hector Medrano was found unresponsive early Sunday morning by correctional officers.
Deputy James Allerton said officers, medical staff and the Tucson Fire Department attempted lifesaving measures but Medrano was declared dead.
Allerton said an investigation was in early stages and more information would be released when available.
Jail records show Medrano was booked on Sept. 2 on outstanding warrants from the sheriff’s department and the city of South Tucson, Allerton said.
Structural concerns force closure of Canyon bridge
GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK — The National Park Service has closed a bridge in the Grand Canyon that hikers use to cross the Colorado River.
The Park Service said Sunday that the Silver Bridge along the Bright Angel Trail would be closed immediately due to concerns about the bridge’s structural safety.
Instead of crossing the bridge near Phantom Ranch, hikers will need to cross the river via the Black Bridge.
Hikers on the Bright Angel Trail will have to travel 1.5 miles more to get to the Black Bridge.
Park officials said there is no estimated time of repair for the bridge and it will remain closed until further notice.