Gilbert Daily: Police Appeal, Museum Events, Outdoor Expo
Gilbert, AZ — February 17, 2026 — Police seek tips in assault case, HD SOUTH hosts local history and stargazing events, and Riparian Preserve readies expo.
Gilbert, AZ — February 17, 2026 — Here’s a quick look at what’s happening around town today, from public safety to local history and family events.
Police seek help in drugging, sexual assault case
Gilbert police are asking for the public’s help identifying a man connected to a case in which a woman was reportedly drugged and repeatedly sexually assaulted. Detectives have released surveillance photos of a person of interest and say two other men have already been arrested in connection with the incident.
Anyone who recognizes the man or has information is urged to contact Gilbert police or submit an anonymous tip online, referencing the active case number. Officers emphasize that community tips can be critical in completing the investigation and supporting the victim.
HD SOUTH highlights local history and night-sky viewing
HD SOUTH – Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum – continues its busy February lineup tonight with a free evening program on Arizona’s World War II German prisoner-of-war camps. Local historian Steve Hoza is scheduled to share stories from interviews with former prisoners, guards, and camp staff, offering a detailed look at a lesser-known chapter of state history.
The museum also has a community food drive underway to help restock local food banks after the holidays. Later this week, HD SOUTH partners with the East Valley Astronomy Club for “Party in the Stars,” a star party at the Riparian Preserve’s observatory that will give residents a chance to look through telescopes and learn more about the night sky.
Riparian Preserve prepares for Gilbert Outdoors Expo
Looking ahead to the weekend, the Riparian Preserve is gearing up for the Gilbert Outdoors Expo, a free family event scheduled for Saturday, February 21. The expo is set to feature fishing activities, wildlife presentations, rock climbing and ninja-style obstacle courses, inflatables, outdoor cooking demonstrations, and more.
Organizers encourage families to spend several hours at the preserve, noting that food trucks will be on site and that some activities require closed-toe shoes and signed waivers. Parking will be centered around the Southeast Regional Library, with portions of the preserve lot closed to accommodate the event.
Tonight in arts and classes
Several evening activities are also on tap around Gilbert, including a performance of the Eagles tribute show “Hotel California” at the Higley Center for the Performing Arts and multiple paint-and-sip art sessions at a local studio. Residents can also find childbirth education and other small-group classes hosted by local businesses.
Sources
- https://www.kold.com/2026/02/18/gilbert-police-seeks-person-interest-drugging-sexual-assault-case/
- https://hdsouth.org/calendar/
- https://business.gilbertaz.com/news/details/hd-south-home-of-the-gilbert-historical-museum-february-2026-program-and-events-01-15-2026
- https://www.meetup.com/outdoor-arizona/events/312664656/
- https://allevents.in/gilbert-az/2026-02-16
