Former Oaks Christian coach gives emotional testimony in Grossman civil case
Thousand Oaks Acorn
May 7, 2026
It’s one of those stories that feels heavy no matter how much time passes, and this week it returned to the forefront of our community’s conscience. According to the *Thousand Oaks Acorn*, former Oaks Christian baseball coach Royce Clayton took the stand on May 1 in the civil case of *Iskander vs. Grossman*, giving emotional testimony about what he knew regarding the 2020 crash that killed two young brothers from Westlake Village. Clayton, who had been close friends with both drivers for decades, reportedly told police he learned incriminating details from Scott Erickson—the other driver and Rebecca Grossman’s ex-boyfriend—about the night of the tragedy.
For those of us who remember the shock that rippled through our neighborhoods when the Iskander family lost Mark and Jacob, this testimony feels like another raw chapter in a long, painful process. Clayton’s decision to come forward despite a 30-year friendship speaks to the gravity of what happened on that dark road. It’s a reminder that even in a close-knit community like ours—where coaches, parents, and kids cross paths at every Little League game and school event—justice sometimes demands heartbreaking choices. As this civil case moves forward, many of us are watching closely, hoping the Iskanders finally get the answers they deserve.
This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Thousand Oaks Acorn.
City
Thousand OaksSource
Thousand Oaks AcornPublished
May 7, 2026
AI-curated summary from local news sources
Explore Thousand OaksAll Thousand Oaks NewsMore News from Thousand Oaks
Thousand OaksStolen firearm case turns into sweeping weapons investigation
You know how a simple call about a burglary can sometimes crack open something much bigger? That's exactly what happened here in Thousand Oaks. What started in May as a routine response to a residential break-in on the 2900 block turned into a months-long investigation that pulled back the curtain on a serious weapons operation. By the time it was over, deputies had arrested three people and taken more than 20 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammo, and dozens of high-capacity magazines off our streets—plus narcotics that were likely fueling more trouble. This isn't just a headline from the Thousand Oaks Acorn; it's a reminder that our community's safety often depends on the quiet, persistent work of our sheriff's deputies. For neighbors in the area, this kind of news can feel unsettling, but it also shows that when something feels off, reporting it can lead to real change. Let's take a moment to appreciate the teamwork here—and maybe give a little extra thanks to the deputies who keep our streets safer every day.
Thousand OaksCaltrans completes long-awaited fencing project on 118 bridge
Great news for Moorpark commuters and the broader community: Caltrans has wrapped up the SR-118 Arroyo Simi Safety Barrier Project on the Overhead Bridge, adding over 6,400 linear feet of fencing along both sides of the half-mile span. The Thousand Oaks Acorn reported the completion on July 15, marking the end of a long-awaited effort to prevent suicides on the bridge. For those who drive this stretch daily, the change is subtle but deeply meaningful—a quiet safeguard that prioritizes mental health and safety. This project isn't just about infrastructure; it's a reflection of our community's care. The bridge, which carries thousands of vehicles between Moorpark and Thousand Oaks, has been a site of tragedy, and this fencing offers a tangible step toward prevention. It's a reminder that even in our busy lives, we look out for one another. Kudos to Caltrans and local advocates who pushed for this—it's a win for the 805.
Thousand OaksCRPD weighs future uses for newly purchased property
The Conejo Valley Recreation and Park District just sealed the deal on a major piece of local history—the Hillcrest Center for the Arts and the surrounding 61 acres, including the old National Park Service headquarters. For those of us who’ve spent years watching plays, taking classes, or just enjoying the open space around 403 W. Hillcrest, this feels like a homecoming. The district now owns the land it’s been leasing for decades, which means the future of that arts hub and the adjacent grounds is wide open. What happens next? CRPD is asking the community to weigh in on potential uses, from expanding arts programming to adding more recreational trails or even event spaces. It’s a rare chance to shape a beloved landmark—and the Thousand Oaks Acorn will be tracking every public meeting. If you’ve ever wandered the Hillcrest grounds or cheered from the audience, now’s the time to speak up about what this place could become.