Glenwood Springs–The No Name man who nearly strangled his estranged wife to death last summer plead guilty to a menacing charge in exchange for having a charge of attempted first degree murder dropped. Daniel Carden could get up to six years in prison when he’s sentenced August 28th.
Grand Junction–Evacuation orders have been lifted for residents of Molina in Mesa County after firefighters were able to make significant progress overnight. Further north however, lightning sparked at least seven wildfires including one that has burned over 700 acres.
Leadville–The Colorado Department of Transportation says part of U.S. 24 is still open after a sinkhole 100 feet deep and 20 feet across opened beside the road, apparently caused by the collapse of an abandoned railroad tunnel far below. The department said Wednesday people who want to visit Camp Hale south of Red Cliff can still get there. The camp was established in 1942 to provide winter and mountain warfare training during World War II. Traffic between Leadville and Red Cliff, 25 miles to the north, must take a detour about 60 miles long. CDOT spokeswoman Ashley Mohr says the railroad tunnel collapsed decades ago but much of the soil above it remained frozen until recently.
Ft. Collins–Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials are considering corporate sponsorships or more oil and gas drilling in state parks to cope with budget cuts. Assistant director Ken Brink says visitors do not want state parks named after corporations, but department officials say they may have no choice. The state already allows oil and gas drilling in St. Vrain State Park near Longmont.
