A man believed by law enforcement to be a suspect in the 1983 killing of Teresa Peroni was arrested in Chico on Monday after the cold case investigation was reopened in Josephine County, Oregon.

According to a press release issued Monday by the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, Mark Sanfratello was in a relationship with Peroni at the time of her death. Peroni was last seen in a forested area during a party before going missing.

“During this initial investigation, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office found the disappearance to be suspicious in nature,” the release said. “However, after the investigation with the Josephine County District Attorney’s Office, in was determined that there was not enough probable cause to move forward with criminal prosecution.”

Peroni’s remains weren’t discovered until 1997 when a skull was found at a property adjacent to where she was last seen.

The case initially reopened in February 2024 and DNA was collected that confirmed the skull was Peroni’s. The release said additional interviews were conducted and the investigation ultimately led to the arrest of Sanfratello in Chico after he was questioned regarding the case.

“Sanfratello remains in custody in California and will be extradited back to Josephine County,” the release said.

Burglary

A suspect in a burglary investigation was arrested near the Super 8 Motel in Oroville on Monday after deputies with the Butte County Sheriff’s Office chased him and one other man down.

Jacob Ascheman, 30, of Magalia, was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance while armed, felony burglary and possession of a firearm and ammunition while prohibited. Additionally, deputies arrested Derek Barnett, 35, of Paradise, who authorities say had a warrant from out of the state.

According to a press release issued Tuesday by the Sheriff’s Office, both men ran away once deputies showed up, leading law enforcement on a short chase before the arrest.

A search turned up a firearm that deputies allege was in Ascheman’s waistband.

Fireworks

The city of Chico issued a press release Tuesday informing the public that all fireworks are illegal in city limits. This includes those dubbed Safe and Sane.

“Each year, fireworks pose significant threats to public safety and can result in fires, injuries, and property damage,” the release said. “The Chico Fire Department emphasizes that the use, possession, and sale of all fireworks, including those labeled as Safe and Sane, are strictly prohibited.”