San Diego, December 16, 2025
San Diego’s 2025 was marked by significant events ranging from a tragic Cessna 550 crash and major political developments to record-breaking philanthropic efforts. The city underwent a modernization of its airport while also seeing large protests and considerable sports achievements. Key events included an ICE raid that sparked controversy, increased fees by the city to address financial challenges, and impressive fundraising results from local universities. The community has seen both triumphs and challenges throughout the year, illustrating its dynamic landscape.
San Diego’s 2025 Highlights: Major Events and Milestones
San Diego experienced a year marked by significant events and achievements across various sectors in 2025. From tragic incidents to record-breaking philanthropic efforts, the city has seen a diverse range of developments.
Tragic Cessna 550 Crash Near Montgomery Field Airport
In May, a Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into military housing near Montgomery Field Airport, resulting in the loss of six lives. This incident was one of the most tragic events in the city’s recent history.
Major ICE Raid at Buona Forchetta Restaurant
In June, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid at Buona Forchetta restaurant in South Park sparked national controversy. The raid led to heightened discussions on immigration policies and their impact on local communities.
Record-Breaking “No Kings” Protest
Also in June, San Diego witnessed its largest-ever protest, with over 80,000 participants in the “No Kings” demonstration. This event highlighted the city’s active engagement in social and political issues.
Financial Challenges and Increased Fees
The city faced financial challenges, leading to a budget deficit. In response, San Diego implemented increased parking and field-use fees, introduced parking charges in Balboa Park, and began charging for trash pickup services.
Proposition 50 Passes, Potentially Shifting Political Landscape
In October, Proposition 50 passed, opening the door for Democrats to potentially flip key Republican-held congressional seats, including that of Republican Representative Darrell Issa in East County. This development could significantly alter the region’s political dynamics.
Continued Use of Flock License Plate Cameras
Despite public concerns, the city council voted to continue using Flock license plate cameras. This decision followed a December meeting where nearly 200 people expressed their opinions on the matter.
San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 Modernization Completed
San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 underwent a $3.8 billion modernization project, completed this fall. The upgraded terminal now features more gates, diverse food options, additional parking, art installations, and modern amenities, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
San Diego FC’s Successful Debut Season
San Diego’s soccer team, San Diego FC, had a successful debut season, reaching the Western Conference final. This achievement marked a significant milestone for the city’s sports community.
Record-Breaking Philanthropy at San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) reported a record-breaking $142.2 million in donations during the fiscal year 2024-25. This generosity propelled SDSU’s endowment past $500 million and surpassed $1 billion in total philanthropic support since President Adela de la Torre’s arrival in 2018. The funds support various initiatives, including scholarships, faculty positions, and campus development projects.
UC San Diego’s High National Ranking
UC San Diego climbed to No. 20 in Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges, marking a one-spot improvement from the previous year. The university also maintained its position as the No. 3 public university for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to delivering exceptional education and fostering student success.
San Diego Film Critics Society Awards 2025
The 30th San Diego Film Critics Society Awards were announced on December 15, 2025. Ryan Coogler’s period supernatural horror film “Sinners” led the nominations with twelve, followed by “One Battle After Another” with eleven and “Hamnet” with nine. “Sinners” also led the winners with a total of four wins, followed by “It Was Just an Accident” and “Weapons” with two each.
USD Men’s Basketball Team’s Recent Victory
The University of San Diego’s men’s basketball team secured a 78-69 home victory over Northern Arizona on December 13, 2025. Junior guard Ty-Laur Johnson led the team with a season-high 23 points, contributing to the Toreros’ fourth win of the season and their first in December.
USD Women’s Volleyball Team’s WCC Awards
San Diego’s women’s volleyball team dominated the 2025 West Coast Conference (WCC) awards, earning four of the league’s five major honors. Head coach Jennifer Petrie was named WCC Coach of the Year, junior outside hitter Nemo Beach received WCC Player of the Year, senior Olivia Bennett was honored as WCC Libero of the Year, and sophomore Kylie Munday was selected as WCC Setter of the Year. The team also achieved a perfect 18-0 record in conference play, marking their 13th WCC Championship and 27th NCAA Tournament bid.
These events and achievements underscore San Diego’s dynamic and evolving landscape in 2025, reflecting both challenges and triumphs across various sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the most tragic event in San Diego in 2025?
In May, a Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into military housing near Montgomery Field Airport, resulting in the loss of six lives. This incident was one of the most tragic events in the city’s recent history.
What significant political development occurred in San Diego in 2025?
In October, Proposition 50 passed, opening the door for Democrats to potentially flip key Republican-held congressional seats, including that of Republican Representative Darrell Issa in East County. This development could significantly alter the region’s political dynamics.
How did San Diego State University perform in terms of philanthropy in 2025?
San Diego State University (SDSU) reported a record-breaking $142.2 million in donations during the fiscal year 2024-25. This generosity propelled SDSU’s endowment past $500 million and surpassed $1 billion in total philanthropic support since President Adela de la Torre’s arrival in 2018. The funds support various initiatives, including scholarships, faculty positions, and campus development projects.
What was UC San Diego’s ranking in Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges?
UC San Diego climbed to No. 20 in Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges, marking a one-spot improvement from the previous year. The university also maintained its position as the No. 3 public university for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to delivering exceptional education and fostering student success.
What was the outcome of the 30th San Diego Film Critics Society Awards?
The 30th San Diego Film Critics Society Awards were announced on December 15, 2025. Ryan Coogler’s period supernatural horror film “Sinners” led the nominations with twelve, followed by “One Battle After Another” with eleven and “Hamnet” with nine. “Sinners” also led the winners with a total of four wins, followed by “It Was Just an Accident” and “Weapons” with two each.
Key Features of San Diego’s 2025 Highlights
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Tragic Cessna 550 Crash | In May, a Cessna 550 aircraft crashed into military housing near Montgomery Field Airport, resulting in the loss of six lives. |
| Major ICE Raid at Buona Forchetta Restaurant | In June, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid at Buona Forchetta restaurant in South Park sparked national controversy. |
| Record-Breaking “No Kings” Protest | Also in June, San Diego witnessed its largest-ever protest, with over 80,000 participants in the “No Kings” demonstration. |
| Financial Challenges and Increased Fees | The city faced financial challenges, leading to a budget deficit and the implementation of increased parking and field-use fees, parking charges in Balboa Park, and charges for trash pickup services. |
| Proposition 50 Passes, Potentially Shifting Political Landscape | In October, Proposition 50 passed, opening the door for Democrats to potentially flip key Republican-held congressional seats, including that of Republican Representative Darrell Issa in East County. |
| Continued Use of Flock License Plate Cameras | Despite public concerns, the city council voted to continue using Flock license plate cameras, following a December meeting where nearly 200 people expressed their opinions on the matter. |
| San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 Modernization | The $3.8 billion modernization of Terminal 1 was completed, enhancing passenger experience with more amenities. |
| San Diego FC’s Successful Debut Season | San Diego FC reached the Western Conference final in its inaugural season. |
| Record-Breaking Philanthropy at SDSU | SDSU received a record-breaking $142.2 million in donations during the fiscal year 2024-25. |
| UC San Diego’s National Ranking | UC San Diego ranked No. 20 in Forbes’ 2026 list of America’s Top Colleges. |
| San Diego Film Critics Society Awards | The 30th San Diego Film Critics Society Awards recognized “Sinners” as a major winner. |
| USD Men’s Basketball Team Victory | USD secured a 78-69 victory over Northern Arizona on December 13, 2025. |
| USD Women’s Volleyball Team’s Success | The women’s volleyball team earned multiple major honors and achieved an 18-0 conference record. |
Now Happening on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 15, 2025, 4:47 AM) San Diego News Daily for Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, includes two SDPD officers recovering after being hit by a car in Pacific Beach, an update from the Border Czar on border security measures, and donors helping a Marine veteran recover from a scam. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 11, 2025, 12:29 AM) A teen girl was stabbed in class by a fellow student at San Ysidro High, San Diego City Council approves extending the license plate reader plan in a split vote, and a couple’s Tesla records a parking ticket being rewritten before their spot expired. View on X
- @nbcsandiego (December 10, 2025, 3:15 AM) SDPD is investigating after an infant was found in a portable toilet in Mission Bay, a hidden camera was discovered in a bathroom spooking shoppers, and teachers in South Bay say they’re ready to strike. View on X
- @MayorToddGloria (December 16, 2025, 12:37 AM) Weekly update highlights a new housing initiative for homeownership paths, City Council keeping license plate readers in use to solve crimes, and a 23% drop in downtown property crime under Prop. 36. View on X
- @sdcta (December 15, 2025, 2:29 PM) 2025 was a year of budget woes and increased fees for San Diego, with 2026 projected to see a $23 million deficit and potential parking fees at beaches, repeating the financial challenges. View on X
- @sdcta (December 15, 2025, 2:27 PM) San Diego faced budget woes and fee increases in 2025, and 2026 may continue with a $23 million deficit and council considering beach parking fees. View on X
- @10News (December 10, 2025, 2:00 PM) Morning Streamline newsletter covers SD Unified’s efforts to solve a $47 million budget deficit, a long standoff near Naval Base San Diego, and record high temperatures expected today. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
