Public Safety
Public Safety news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Public SafetyValleyCentral Weekend Report: Continuing Coverage, deep dive and more
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On this week’s edition of Valley Central Weekend Report, NBC 23 Anchor Rudy Mireles breaks down all the biggest stories from the week. Starting with new updates on the Alton teen who is accused of killing three family members. During a hearing on Monday, we learned new details on the case. Alton police patrol supervisor Osvaldo Miguel Zamora, he
Public SafetyAccident in Edinburg Leaves One Person Injured
Local authorities reported a serious traffic accident that occurred on the afternoon of Friday, July 10, on the 4900 block of South I-69C, which resulted in the overturning of a cargo truck. The incident took place around 5:01 p.m. when a tractor-trailer traveling north changed lanes and struck a Nissan Altima. The impact caused the truck driver to lose control, resulting in the vehicle overturning on its side in the middle of the road. The driver of the Nissan Altima sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital by EMS paramedics. Traffic in the area was temporarily affected while emergency services cleared the vehicles, but authorities confirmed that the highway has since been fully reopened to traffic.
Public SafetyCBP Seizes Firearms and Ammunition in Presidio
On July 8, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Presidio, Texas Port of Entry seized eight firearms and 500 rounds of ammunition from a vehicle heading to Mexico. The 2013 Nissan X-trail contained six rifles, two handguns, 180 magazines, and components for machine guns, all discovered during a physical inspection after non-intrusive technology detected anomalies. The driver, a lawful U.S. permanent resident and Mexican citizen, was arrested and faces charges for smuggling goods and trafficking in firearms. CBP officials emphasized their commitment to preventing illegal arms trafficking across the border.
Public SafetyCBP Officers Seize Almost $11m in Meth at Pharr Port of Entry
On July 6, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Pharr International Bridge seized nearly $11 million worth of methamphetamine during a secondary inspection of a commercial tractor trailer. The shipment, initially declared as 'cabbage,' raised suspicions, leading to a canine inspection that indicated the presence of drugs. A subsequent scan revealed irregularities, and a physical search uncovered 477 packages containing 532.1 kilograms (1,173 lbs.) of meth. CBP seized the narcotics, the tractor, and the trailer, with the meth's street value estimated at $10,787,542, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Public SafetyBrownsville motorist advised of scheduled road closures on Westbound Wild Rose Ln.
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of Brownsville is advising drivers to prepare ahead for its upcoming road closures as part of the Wild Rose Lane Reconstruction Improvements Project. According to a news release from the city of Brownsville, the scheduled road closure is taking place from 8:30 a.m. on Monday, July 13 and will remain
Public SafetyDPS Graduates New K-9 Teams to Protect Texas
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has graduated five new K-9 teams and two certified K-9 Tech Trainers, enhancing public safety across the state. These teams are trained in narcotics and explosives detection, playing a vital role in law enforcement efforts. The K-9s, including breeds like German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, will assist in identifying illegal drugs and potential explosive threats in various environments. The DPS K-9 program is among the nation's best, with extensive training ensuring each team is prepared for high-pressure situations. The graduates include Troopers Issiac Espinoza, Matthew Ochoa, Robert Varner, Levi Wilcox, and Bryan Rutland, along with Trainers Bryan Fife and Jeremy Arizola.
Public SafetyLaredo CBP Officers Apprehend Tennessee Homicide Suspect
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Laredo Port of Entry recently arrested Edgar Beltran, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen, who was wanted for homicide in Tennessee. On July 7, during a secondary inspection at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge, officers used biometric verification to confirm his identity and discovered an active felony warrant issued by the Metro Nashville Police Department. Beltran was taken to Webb County jail to await further legal proceedings. Port Director Alberto Flores emphasized the importance of such apprehensions in maintaining border security and delivering justice for victims.
Public SafetyTeens charged after consuming alcohol at McAllen bar using fake Mexican IDs
Four minors were charged after consuming alcohol at Sala De Despecho bar in McAllen using fake Mexican IDs. Eduardo Cervantes, Diego De Leon, Jorge Richaud, and a female minor faced charges including public intoxication and misrepresentation of age. The incident on July 3 involved a 17-year-old female who was found extremely intoxicated and required medical assistance. McAllen police conducted a check and discovered the minors had ordered multiple alcoholic drinks. Cervantes admitted to using a fake ID to gain entry. All four were taken into custody, and the hospitalized female was later transferred to Driscoll Children's Hospital for observation.
Public SafetyBreaking News: Vehicle Overturns in Alamo
An accident has been reported where a vehicle overturned north of the city of Alamo, on Iowa Street. DPS patrols and the Edinburg Fire Department are on the scene. This is a breaking news story. We will have more information for you shortly. Thank you for choosing TELEMUNDO 40.
Public SafetyPalm tree sparks fire, damages two homes in Donna
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A palm tree that came into contact with a power line started an electrical fire that spread to two homes, according to the Hidalgo County Fire Marshall. At approximately 2:20 a.m. on Thursday, fire officials responded to the 7400 block of Gene Street in Donna in reference to a fire. According to
Public SafetyInvestigation Underway into Mysterious Death of 18-Year-Old Who Disappeared on Boat Trip July 4
A July 4 celebration ended in tragedy this week when a Mississippi teenager on a boating trip with friends went missing, and his body was found on the shore days later, authorities reported. An investigation has been launched into the death of 18-year-old Nolan Xavier Wells, as speculation about the circumstances of the case spreads online. Wells was last seen boating with friends around 3 p.m. on Saturday near Horn Island, a barrier island off the coast of Mississippi accessible only by boat, according to the Jackson County Sheriff's Department. He was wearing blue swim trunks and sunglasses. Wells' mother reported him missing that night after he did not return on the boat with the rest of the group, according to Ben Crump, the prominent civil rights attorney hired by Wells' family.
Public SafetyMan Accused of Mutilating His Genitals and Using Them to Start a Fire in His Mother's House
A man from Indiana faces a felony charge after allegedly cutting off his genitals and using the severed organ to ignite a fire in a garage, authorities reported. Christopher Peden, a 36-year-old from Fort Wayne, Indiana, is charged with arson, a felony, in connection with a fire he allegedly started in his mother's garage on May 6, according to court documents. Fort Wayne firefighters were dispatched to the garage fire around the same time local police received a call about a stabbing, according to court documents. At the scene, Peden initially told authorities he had been stabbed downtown and that someone had threatened him the day before. Later, at the hospital, he told an officer that he entered the garage around 2 a.m. and used a kitchen knife to mutilate his genitals, according to court documents.
Public SafetyMan Loses Hand While Picking Up Fireworks Debris on California Beach
A man lost his hand after an explosive device detonated while he was picking up fireworks debris on Point St. George Beach in Del Norte County, California. Jason Turner and his girlfriend were cleaning the beach when he accidentally activated a cylindrical object that exploded. He was found with severe injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. Investigators have not yet identified the device that caused the explosion. A GoFundMe campaign created by his daughter has raised nearly $90,000 for his medical expenses. Authorities warn the public to avoid handling suspicious objects and to contact law enforcement immediately.
Public SafetyJudge extends restraining order preventing Brownsville midtown bars from closing
A judge has extended a temporary restraining order that protects seven bars in Brownsville's Midtown Entertainment District from closure due to alleged code violations. Initially signed on June 25, 2026, the order now lasts until July 22, 2026, when the next hearing is set. The bars affected include Antrito, Hong Kong, Bar Rio, Clasico, The Jungle, Vida Loca, and Mal Verde. The city had previously shut them down for issues such as serving minors and illegal substances. The extension was granted after the judge withdrew from the case, prompting an emergency motion from the plaintiffs.
Public SafetyFederal agents at scene of deadly ICE shooting in Houston didnt have body cameras, DHS says
A tragic incident in Houston involved the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by an ICE agent, who was not the intended target of the operation. U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia confirmed that Salgado Araujo, a long-time resident and homebuilder, was close to obtaining legal status. The Department of Homeland Security stated that the agents did not wear body cameras during the operation, attributing this to past government shutdowns. An investigation is underway by the Harris County District Attorney's office, and LULAC is offering a $5,000 reward for witness information. Three individuals were detained during the incident.
Public SafetyDonna family of 8 escapes overnight house fire started by palm tree
A family of eight was displaced after a house fire in Donna, caused by a palm tree frond igniting an overhead power line. The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. near Minnesota and Val Verde roads. Firefighters from Donna and Elsa responded to the emergency. Rigoberto Regalado, who spent nearly 15 years building the home, reported hearing what sounded like fireworks before discovering the blaze. Fortunately, all family members, including five children and one grandchild, escaped unharmed. The home is a total loss, and the family is currently staying with relatives while receiving assistance from local services.
Public SafetyDPS Adds Sherman Man to 10 Most Wanted List
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has placed James Lee Kirby from Sherman on its 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List. A reward of up to $7,500 is being offered by Texas Crime Stoppers for information leading to his capture. Kirby, 49, has been wanted since February 2, 2026, for failing to appear in court related to charges of first-degree rape and incest. He also has an outstanding warrant for aggravated sexual assault. Kirby is described as 6'4" and weighing between 250 and 300 pounds, with multiple tattoos. Tips can be submitted anonymously through various methods.
Public SafetyDonna home destroyed after palm tree catches fire
A fire in Donna, Texas, began early Thursday morning when a palm tree came into contact with an electrical power line. The blaze spread to two homes on Gene Street, resulting in one home being declared a total loss. The fire was reported around 2:20 a.m., prompting responses from the Donna and Elsa fire departments. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in the incident, according to the Hidalgo County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Public SafetyForensic Institute classifies immigrant's death during ICE operation as homicide
HOUSTON – The death of Lorenzo Salgado has been classified as a homicide, according to case information released by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. The cause of death is listed as a penetrating gunshot wound to the torso. Meanwhile, community organizations report that the family is trying to recover his body. Community leaders revealed this during a press conference where it was expected that the victim's son, Ronaldo Salgado, would be present; however, LULAC Executive Director Juan Proaño stated that both he and the family are dealing with the recovery of Lorenzo Salgado's body and his belongings. According to Proaño, before Salgado was loaded into the ambulance and taken to the hospital, all of his identification was removed, leaving nothing to identify him, which has apparently caused a series of complications for the family.