A reduced number of participants attended the annual New Year's Day Polar Plunge at Ocean Beach despite the cold and rainy weather, celebrating the event's enduring spirit with a chilly dip in 54-degree water.

A rollover on northbound I-280 near Serramonte Boulevard killed one passenger and closed lanes for hours on New Year’s Day.

Taco Bell Cantina opened Dec. 30 at 333 Jefferson St., bringing boozy slushies and late-night hours to Fisherman's Wharf as part of the waterfront's revival.

Andru Sheldon was arrested for a series of crimes in Palo Alto and East Palo Alto, including robbery and hit-and-run, with a joint press statement released by the local police departments.

Pleasanton police arrested a 26-year-old after tracing a Hertz rental to follow‑home robberies that targeted people leaving a San Leandro dispensary. Authorities say she faces fraud warrants in multiple states.

A pedestrian in his 70s was critically injured in a Santa Rosa hit-and-run accident. The responsible driver, Brigido Pena Villanueva, was arrested after fleeing and later calling police to disclose his location.

Vallejo Police issued an EMA for Tressa Diaz, 46, with dementia, missing since December 31, 2025. She was last seen in a grey sweatshirt and black pants.

Thrive City at Chase Center hosted a family-focused Kwanzaa and "Noon Year’s Eve" celebration Wednesday, mixing Afrobeats, West African dance, crafts and a midday countdown. The outdoor program was moved inside because of rain but kept a festive, community tone.

Novato ended formal talks with residents over the Marin Valley mobile‑home park. The city says offers couldn't guarantee long-term affordability.

Tokyo Central is opening a new store in Emeryville, offering a range of Japanese products and embodying the philosophy of Omotenashi hospitality. The grand opening includes a $10 gift certificate giveaway and other festivities.

Four suspects in a Volkswagen Jetta rammed undercover police cars in San Ramon, leading to a pursuit, an officer's minor injury, and the arrest of two individuals.

Sanofi plans to acquire Dynavax Technologies for $2.2 billion, offering a 39% premium on the latter's shares, which may stimulate further biotech deals in the Bay Area.

Isabella Alcaraz faces a lawsuit for $9,500 in unpaid rent at her former pet shop, despite claiming no outstanding rent. The new owner struggles with the shop's condition and eviction.