Escobares Police Chief Arrested for Allegedly Driving While Intoxicated
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Nelson Martínez, the police chief of Escobares, was arrested after showing signs of intoxication. Reports indicate Martínez struggled to maintain his balance, had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and a strong smell of alcohol emanating from his vehicle. On April 30, 2026, at approximately 3:45 a.m., a Texas Department of Public Safety officer was conducting operations as part of Operation Lone Star in La Grulla, Starr County. The officer observed a 2020 Ford F-150 traveling westbound on US 83, allegedly committing traffic violations, including failing to stay within a single lane and driving on the shoulder where prohibited. After activating emergency lights, the officer initiated a traffic stop. Upon approaching the driver, signs of intoxication were reportedly detected. The officer conducted standardized field sobriety tests. According to the report, Martínez was subsequently arrested. He was read his legal warnings but allegedly refused to provide a breath sample. The suspect was transported to the Starr County Jail, where he was booked without incident.