Good morning, Maricopa.

Maricopa fire officials reported that 63-year-old Mike Blunt died after being found unconscious in a backyard when a house fire broke out near Sussex and Porter roads overnight—officials said he may have reentered the home to try and fight the blaze before it spread upward from a trash can.

Arizona law lets a property owner trim branches from a neighbor’s tree that grow into their yard—provided the work stays on their side of the boundary and does not fully remove or harm the tree.

Legal guidelines suggest speaking with the neighbor first, and any trimming costs are the responsibility of the property owner.

A countdown clock was unveiled at Terminal 4 of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport as part of plans for the 2026 Women's Final Four, which will be held at PHX Arena on April 3 & April 5.

Arizona State head coach Molly Miller & NCAA vice president Lynn Holzman witnessed the event, marking a key step in the tournament's preparations.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, Ryan Thompson threw a 21-pitch live batting practice session at Salt River Fields and manager Torey Lovullo said he felt great and is set to face more advanced hitters soon—he may work with a minor league affiliate before returning.

Thompson has been a key member of the bullpen since joining midseason and will test his skills against big-league batters in upcoming games.