As 2024 winds down, we’re looking back at the stories that captured the Snoqualmie Valley’s attention.
These ten moments defined the year on Living Snoqualmie, from triumphs to challenges that brought neighbors together. And yes, we’re skipping the traffic reports—this list focuses on the stories that truly mattered in 2024.
10. Remembering Burt ‘Walking’ Mann 1923-2024 01/27/2024
In 2024, North Bend bid farewell to Burt “Walking” Mann, a beloved community figure who lived an extraordinary life of resilience and service. From enduring a difficult childhood on the streets to serving in World War II, Burt’s story is one of strength and kindness.
Retiring to North Bend decades ago, he became a local icon, known for his daily walks and warm interactions. Celebrating his 100th birthday in 2023, Burt’s legacy as “The Walking Mann” lives on as an inspiration to the Snoqualmie Valley.
9. All Aboard for Adventure: Day Out With Thomas Returns to Snoqualmie! 02/25/2024
In February 2024, the beloved Day Out With Thomas event return to Snoqualmie was announced. The event draws families to the Northwest Railway Museum for scenic train rides, bubble-themed activities, and meet-and-greets with Sir Topham Hatt.
While the event delighted young fans and their families, some locals expressed frustration with the accompanying traffic and crowds, a recurring challenge during this popular summer tradition. Despite mixed feelings, the event remained a highlight for Thomas’ enthusiasts and a testament to the valley’s connection to railway history.
8. Multiple Deaths in Fall City: Homicide Investigation Underway 10/21/2024
In October 2024, a tragic homicide investigation unfolded in Fall City’s Lake Alice Road neighborhood, resulting in multiple fatalities. Initially reported as a possible suicide, authorities later confirmed a 15-year-old teen had allegedly committed the crime.
The community grappled with the devastating news, and the Snoqualmie Valley School District offered counseling support to help students and families process the event. While the investigation continued, law enforcement assured the public there was no ongoing threat. This somber story underscored the far-reaching impact of such tragedies on the Snoqualmie Valley community.
7. Stripe Alert! Zebras Turn a Quiet Day Wild in North Bend 04/29/2024
A quiet day in April 2024 took a wild turn in North Bend when four zebras escaped from a transport trailer near I-90. The unusual sight of zebras wandering through the streets amused and baffled residents, sparking a multi-agency rescue effort.
Police, animal control, and a controversial ex-rodeo clown successfully recaptured three animals. At the time of the article, a local animal rescue group had joined the search for the elusive fourth zebra, keeping the community captivated by this unexpected adventure.
6. First New I-90/SR 18 Interchange Ramps to Open During Busy Week Near Snoqualmie 09/06/2024
September 2024 marked a milestone for the I-90/SR 18 interchange project near Snoqualmie, with the first ramps of the diverging diamond interchange opening to traffic. This significant development aimed to improve safety and reduce congestion at one of Washington’s busiest intersections.
The ramp openings came amid a week of nighttime closures and construction activity, signaling progress toward the full interchange’s completion, expected in early 2025. The changes drew the attention of locals and travelers, highlighting the long-awaited upgrades to this critical transportation hub.
5. Updated: Snoqualmie Police Identify Subjects in North Bend Murder-Suicide 02/06/2024
A tragic murder-suicide shocked the North Bend community when authorities discovered the bodies of Judy and David Loewe in their home. Initial findings revealed David Loewe died from a self-inflicted gunshot, while Judy Loewe had been fatally shot and placed in a freezer.
The case, tied to eviction proceedings, also involved the discovery of the couple’s deceased pets. This somber incident brought attention to the challenges of domestic violence and its devastating ripple effects in the Snoqualmie Valley.
4. A Daring Feat and a Tragic End: Charlie Anderson’s Ill-Fated Parachute Jump at Snoqualmie Falls 07/28/2024
Guest poster Deborah Isley, a Snoqualmie Valley Historical Museum volunteer with a master’s in history, shared the dramatic story of Charlie Anderson’s ill-fated parachute jump at Snoqualmie Falls in 1893.
Performing as “Professor Lavonis,” the 20-year-old thrilled over 1,200 spectators with his daring attempt, but tragedy struck when his parachute failed to clear the waterfall, leading to a fatal crash. Deborah’s detailed account highlighted the perilous allure of 19th-century thrill-seeking and offered a poignant look into a unique moment in the valley’s past.
3. Updated: Early Morning Blaze Destroys Snoqualmie Commercial Building 4/14/2024
An early morning fire on April 14, 2024, destroyed a commercial building in downtown Snoqualmie, displacing Chickadee Bake Shop, Snoqualmie Ice Cream, Snoqualmie Pie Co. and Littlest Wishes Photography.
The blaze, discovered by a police officer on routine patrol, drew responses from multiple fire departments. Thankfully, the building was unoccupied but declared a total loss. The fire’s impact rippled through the community, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to support affected businesses.
2. Five Against the Wild: A Gripping Tale of Courage and Survival in Cougar Territory 03/19/2024
In February 2024, five resilient women cycling in the Campbell Global Forest near Fall City faced a life-or-death encounter with two cougars. The group heroically fought off the attacking cougar, protecting their friend Keri Bergere during a harrowing 35-minute ordeal.
Their courage, quick thinking, and teamwork turned a terrifying confrontation into a powerful story of survival. This gripping tale highlighted nature’s unpredictability and the strength of human bonds.
1. Bomb Cyclone to Bring High Winds to the Snoqualmie Valley: Prepare for Gusts Up to 65mph Tuesday Night 11/18/2024
In November 2024, a rare bomb cyclone approached the Snoqualmie Valley, bringing winds up to 60 mph and sparking widespread preparations. Residents were urged to secure property, charge devices, and ready emergency kits as officials warned of potential power outages and fallen trees.
Local authorities, including the City of Snoqualmie’s Emergency Management and Public Works teams, braced for the storm’s impact. The community prepared for what was predicted to be one of the most powerful storms in over a decade.
The windstorm brought peak gusts of 56 mph and caused widespread power outages across the Snoqualmie Valley. Crews cleared debris and addressed fallen trees while working to restore power to affected areas.
As we look back on 2024, these ten stories reflect the resilience, challenges, and unique character of the Snoqualmie Valley. From heartwarming moments and community milestones to unexpected adventures and somber events, they capture the essence of a year that brought people together in myriad ways.
As we step into 2025, these stories remind us of the strength, spirit, and shared experiences that make our valley so unique.
