U.S. Border Patrol Detains Previously Deported Felon with Child Sex Crime Conviction

On July 4, U.S. Border Patrol agents in Del Rio apprehended Cristobal Cortes-Cartagena, a 39-year-old Honduran man with a history of child sex crimes. During a train check operation, he and two others jumped from a railcar. Cortes-Cartagena was previously convicted in California in 2010 for lewd acts with a child under 14 and served five years in prison. After being deported, he reentered the U.S. illegally in 2017 and faced additional charges for failing to register as a sex offender. He now faces up to 20 years in prison for reentry after deportation, according to federal law.

Convicted Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Unlawful Return to U.S.

Ivan Garcia-Lopez, a 37-year-old Mexican national with a felony record, has been sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the U.S. after being previously deported. He pleaded guilty on April 10, and U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett emphasized the seriousness of his past crimes, which include illegal reentry and aggravated assault. Garcia-Lopez was first deported in 2012 and was found again in Houston on September 8, 2025, after being arrested for evading arrest. Following his prison term, he will be deported again. The case was part of Operation Take Back America, targeting illegal immigration and violent crime.

North Browne Avenue (CR 115) Bridge Replacement Project in Cameron County set to begin July 20

The North Browne Avenue (CR 115) bridge replacement project in Cameron County will close the road between Boca Chica Boulevard and Houston Avenue from July 20 to October 19. During this period, detour signs will guide drivers around the closure using Oklahoma Avenue, Medford Avenue, Houston Avenue, and Haven Road. The existing bridge over a drainage ditch will be demolished and replaced with a new, wider structure featuring two travel lanes and 5-foot shoulders, improving safety and traffic flow in the area.

Temporary Closure of Alamo Rd; Authorities Urge Drivers to Take Alternate Routes

ALAMO, Texas — Drivers traveling through the city of Alamo should take precautions as the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) announced a complete closure of a section of FM 907 (Alamo Road) on the night of Thursday, July 9, 2026. According to the notice, the closure will affect the stretch between Interstate 2 (I-2) and Duranta Avenue, and will be in effect from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Authorities indicated that the closure is temporary, so motorists should use alternate routes to reach their destinations and anticipate possible delays. TxDOT recommends planning trips in advance, adhering to signage in the area, and driving cautiously to ensure the safety of workers and those traveling through the area. Authorities thanked the community for their patience while the scheduled work is carried out. Details of the closure: Location: FM 907 (Alamo Road), between I-2 and Duranta Avenue. Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026. Time: 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Recommendation: Use alternate routes and expect delays.

Video shows daycare worker tossing child in air, dropping him

The boy is still experiencing symptoms from the traumatic brain injury, including loss of hearing, according to the complaint.

Kia Issues Recall for Nearly 500,000 SUVs Due to Fire Risk

Kia is recalling nearly 500,000 SUVs due to a defect that could cause the vehicles to catch fire while on the road or parked, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The issue affects the electric front seat motor, which may overheat due to a stuck switch or improper repairs made during a previous recall. Kia advises owners to park the vehicle outdoors and away from buildings or structures until the repair is completed.

Edinburg man sentenced after sending child porn to a 13-year-old girl he called his girlfriend

McAllen crime rate drops to lowest levels recorded in 40 years, city says

McAllen has reported its lowest crime rates in 40 years, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The 2025 Uniform Crime Reporting data indicates a 21.4% decrease in the overall crime rate compared to 2024, with a 20.4% drop in crime volume. Since 1995, crime has decreased by approximately 81.4%. Notable reductions include a 75% drop in murder, a 42.9% decrease in robbery, and a 56% reduction in auto theft. Mayor Javier Villalobos and Police Chief Victor Rodriguez credited community efforts and collaboration with law enforcement for these significant improvements in public safety.

UPDATE: Missing child found near Weslaco

The missing child was located at home on Tuesday around 6 p.m., as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office. Earlier reports indicated that multiple law enforcement agencies were actively searching for the child near Weslaco. Deputies from the sheriff's office, Texas Department of Public Safety troopers, and game wardens were seen conducting searches on Lantana Drive and Mile 5 North Road, close to Estero Llano Grande State Park. Further details about the incident have not been disclosed.

Palmview Fire Department granted $250K for new truck

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Palmview Fire Department received $250,000 in community project funding to support its efforts. U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced the funding for the Palmview Fire Department on Wednesday at Palmview City Hall. The money will be used to support fire safety and equipment for the Palmview Fire Department and to

San Antonio Leader of Extremist Child Exploitation Network Gets 40-Year Sentence

A member of a Nihilistic Violent Extremist group in San Antonio, Alexis Aldair Chavez, was sentenced to 40 years in prison for his role in child exploitation. Known as Zack8884, the 19-year-old was an administrator of the '8884' network, linked to the 764 network, which promotes social unrest and the downfall of societal norms. Chavez coerced minors into self-harm and sexual acts, including a disturbing incident where he attempted to have a minor overdose on camera. He was arrested in October 2024 and pled guilty to multiple charges, including racketeering and distribution of child pornography.

Rio Grande City taking new steps to monitor New World screwworm threat

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- One city in Rio Grande Valley is now taking new steps to prepare for the possible threat of the new world screwworm. Rio Grande City announced that all of its animal control officers are now certified New World screwworm inspectors. The certification allows the officers to inspect livestock and

Registered Sex Offender Gets 15 Years After Nearly 10K Explicit Images of Children Found

Wesley Joseph Slanina, a 71-year-old man from Bacliff, has been sentenced to 186 months in federal prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. This is his second conviction for similar offenses. Slanina was found with over 7,000 explicit images and videos of children, including infants, on his devices. He will also serve 10 years of supervised release post-incarceration, during which he must adhere to strict regulations. Additionally, he has been ordered to pay $71,000 in restitution to the victims. The investigation began in June 2019 when he was discovered sharing illegal files online.

Living Among Trash and 39 Animals: Two Minors Found; Parents Arrested

Two parents were arrested after authorities discovered their two children, a 5-year-old and an 8-month-old, living in unsanitary conditions alongside 39 animals in a home in northeast Philadelphia. The discovery occurred at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, when FBI agents conducted a court-authorized operation at a house located in the 7100 block of Whittaker Avenue. According to the Philadelphia Police, the investigation that led agents to the residence was not related to the condition of the property. However, once inside the house, investigators reported finding an alarming scene. Authorities stated that the home was filled with trash, waste, empty food boxes and bags, as well as a large amount of accumulated items, posing a risk to those living there. Officers announced that the two children were removed from the location and are being evaluated at a hospital. The Pennsylvania SPCA also responded to the emergency after authorities found 38 cats and one dog inside the scene. The woman in the house, 44-year-old Megan Bach, was arrested at the scene. Shortly after, 43-year-old Thomas Bach arrived and was also detained. Both were identified as the parents of the minors. The two adults face charges of endangering the welfare of a child, recklessly endangering another person, criminal conspiracy, possession of an instrument of crime, and possession of an offensive weapon. Thomas Bach appeared before a judge on Wednesday, July 8. The prosecution had requested bail close to one million dollars for both defendants, but the court set bail at $125,000 for each. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 20. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Police continue to investigate the case.

Intersection Reconstruction at FM 494 (Shary Road)/Mile 4 East in Alton, July 7th – October

A reconstruction project at the intersection of FM 494 (Shary Road) and Mile 4 East in Alton will begin on July 7 and is expected to last until October 2026. The project will affect traffic for about 2000 feet east of the intersection, as the contractor upgrades the crossing with new sidewalks, ramps, and traffic signals. This work may also disrupt bus routes for the upcoming school year. Drivers are encouraged to follow detour signs or find alternative routes during the construction period.

El Paso Border Patrol Warns Rideshare Drivers They’re Being Targeted by Smuggling Cartels

The U.S. Border Patrol's El Paso Sector has issued a warning to rideshare drivers about the risks posed by transnational criminal organizations. Smugglers are using rideshare apps to facilitate illegal activities, often booking rides in remote areas and using third-party accounts. Drivers are advised to be vigilant for signs of smuggling, such as passengers in dirty clothing or groups exceeding vehicle limits. Accepting these rides can lead to detention and felony charges. The Border Patrol urges drivers to prioritize their safety by canceling suspicious rides and reporting any concerns to law enforcement or the Border Patrol hotline.

Mother Who Claimed Her 18-Month-Old Twins Died After Vaccination Charged with Murder

Andrea Shaw, a 23-year-old woman from Idaho, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of her 18-month-old twins. Authorities report that she allegedly suffocated her children in May 2025. Shaw previously claimed that her twins died after receiving vaccinations, which she discussed on a podcast produced by the anti-vaccine group Children’s Health Defense. She was arrested last week and is being held on a $2 million bond. If convicted, she could face life in prison or the death penalty. Her next court appearance is scheduled for July 14.

What Will Happen to the Unstable Skyscraper in Manhattan? What We Know

On Tuesday morning, two structural beams of a skyscraper under construction in Manhattan began to buckle, prompting a large emergency response and mass evacuations. The former Pfizer headquarters at 235 East 42nd Street was being converted into residential apartments when the FDNY received reports of falling bricks. By evening, some residents were allowed to return, although many evacuation orders remained in effect. Officials stated that the building was stabilized, but long-term repairs may be complex and costly. The site is near major landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the United Nations headquarters, raising concerns about safety and structural integrity.

ICE agent fatally shoots Houston man accused of trying to run over officer

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a 52-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico, during a vehicle stop in Houston. The incident occurred when Salgado allegedly attempted to run over the officer, prompting the agent to fire in self-defense. Salgado was transported to Ben Taub Hospital but later died from his injuries. The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are investigating the shooting. Family members claim Salgado was in the process of obtaining a work permit and was on his way to work when the incident occurred. Local officials are calling for a transparent investigation.