Public Safety
Public Safety news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Public SafetyNew Video Released of Suspect Attempting to Breach White House Correspondents’ Dinner
WASHINGTON — Federal prosecutors released a video on Thursday showing the moment a man allegedly attempted to breach the White House Correspondents’ Dinner armed with a weapon, aiming to assassinate President Donald Trump. Jeanine Pirro, the lead federal prosecutor in Washington, shared the footage on social media, stating it depicts Cole Allen Tomas firing at a U.S. Secret Service agent while rushing through the security area toward the gala, which was packed with journalists, administration officials, and other notable figures. Pirro clarified that there is no evidence suggesting the agent was hit by friendly fire. Earlier that same Thursday, Allen agreed to remain in custody while awaiting trial. He did not enter a plea during his brief appearance in federal court, days after allegedly bypassing a metal detector at the Washington Hilton while carrying a long gun, disrupting one of the nation’s most high-profile annual events. Allen was injured during the Saturday night attack but was not shot. A Secret Service agent was struck by gunfire but survived thanks to a bulletproof vest, authorities said.
Public SafetyEscobares police chief arrested on DWI charge
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Escobares police Chief Nelson Martinez was arrested on a DWI charge on Thursday. According to an affidavit obtained by ValleyCentral, at 3:45 a.m., a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper working Operation Lone Star in La Grulla pulled over a 2020 Ford F150 pickup truck that failed to drive in a
Public SafetyCamp Mystic drops summer reopening plan over outrage by families and Texas lawmakers
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Camp Mystic on Thursday halted plans to reopen this summer, backing down after months of intensifying outrage by Texas lawmakers and the families of 27 young campers killed last year when floodwaters swept through the all-girls Christian camp in the middle of the night. The decision, a striking reversal of the
Public Safety17-year-old accused of providing alcohol for minors at McAllen Airbnb party
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Investigators on Wednesday arrested a 17-year-old accused of providing alcohol for minors at a party held at a McAllen Airbnb earlier this month. Devin Davila, 17, of McAllen, was arrested on charges of purchase/furnishing of alcohol for a minor, a Class A misdemeanor; misrepresentation of age by a minor, a Class
Public SafetyMcAllen police arrest man in child vape-related incident
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The McAllen Police Department has arrested a man after a 12-year-old boy was hospitalized after using a vape on a morning school bus ride. Francisco Ariel Cuevas Rivas, 18, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with manufacture or delivery of a substance in penalty group 2, causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree
Public SafetyBritney Spears Accused of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Pop star Britney Spears has been accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) after being stopped by California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers last month on a Southern California freeway. Spears' arraignment hearing was scheduled for Monday morning at the Ventura County Superior Court. She is not required to attend as the charge is considered a misdemeanor. Spears, 44, was arrested on March 4 in the Westlake Village community near the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, northwest of Los Angeles. Authorities told NBC4 Investigates that another driver reported someone driving erratically in the Newbury Park area and called 911.
Public SafetyBorder Report Live: Capture of cartel leader triggers border violence
The recent arrest of a cartel leader has sent the Mexican border state of Tamaulipas into a state of chaos.
Public SafetyCamp Mystic Withdraws License Application for Summer 2026 Season
TEXAS – Camp Mystic, the Christian girls-only camp located along the Guadalupe River in Texas Hill Country, where 25 campers and two counselors tragically lost their lives in a flood in 2025, announced on Thursday to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that it is withdrawing its license application for the 2026 summer camp season. Camp Mystic issued the following statement: 'No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, investigations remain ongoing, and so many Texans still bear the pain of the tragedy that occurred last July. We commend the DSHS for their testimony this week, in which they acknowledged their legal obligations. However, rather than risk defending our rights under Texas law in a way that could unintentionally cause further harm, we have chosen to withdraw our application for the 2026 camp season.' 'Twenty-eight precious lives were lost. We understand that no statement or decision can repair that loss or ease the burden carried daily by parents, siblings, loved ones, survivors, emergency response teams, and our beautiful Kerr County community. We also recognize that over 800 girls wish to return to Camp Mystic Cypress Lake this summer. Our special bond with Camp Mystic families does not change or end with this announcement. We love each and every one of you.' 'This decision aims to dispel any doubt that Camp Mystic has heard the concerns expressed by grieving families, members of the Texas House and Senate investigative committees, and citizens across our state. Respect for those voices requires us to step aside for now.' 'Camp Mystic will continue to fully cooperate with all ongoing investigations, comply with all legal requirements, and support recovery and healing efforts.' 'Today is not about camp operations; it is about respect for families, accountability to the public, and reverence for the memory of the lives lost.'
Public SafetyEscobares Police Chief Arrested for Allegedly Driving While Intoxicated
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.
Public Safety18-Year-Old Faces Charges After Minor Hospitalized Due to Vaping Incident in McAllen
On Friday, the McAllen Police Department announced new charges against Francisco Ariel Cuevas Rivas, 18, in connection with a case that left a 12-year-old boy severely injured after using a vaping device. According to the investigation, Cuevas Rivas was identified as the alleged individual responsible for manufacturing or distributing a controlled substance that caused severe harm to the minor. A judge determined probable cause for his arrest, which was carried out on April 30, and he was booked into the Hidalgo County Jail. Cuevas Rivas now faces multiple charges, including: two counts of manufacturing or distributing a Penalty Group 2 substance causing serious bodily injury, first-degree felonies with bail set at $100,000 each; and two counts of possession of a Penalty Group 2 substance in a drug-free zone, also first-degree felonies with bail set at $30,000 each. The incident occurred on April 22, when authorities responded to a call involving a 12-year-old boy who suffered a medical emergency after allegedly using a vaping device. The boy was found unconscious upon arriving at his school that morning. Authorities stated that the investigation is ongoing with support from state and federal agencies. They also noted that additional individuals could face charges if further evidence emerges during the investigation. The community is encouraged to report any related information to (956) 687-8477.
Public Safety18-Year-Old Arrested After Medical Emergency Involving Minor Allegedly Using Vape in McAllen
McAllen police have arrested Francisco Ariel Cuevas Rivas, 18, for allegedly manufacturing or distributing a Penalty Group 2 substance that caused serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony. The incident occurred on April 22 when authorities responded to a medical emergency involving a 12-year-old who reportedly used a vaping device. According to police, the investigation began after officers found the 12-year-old student unconscious upon arriving at school in the morning. A McAllen Municipal Court magistrate determined there was sufficient probable cause to issue an arrest warrant for Cuevas Rivas, who was taken into custody on April 29. Authorities stated that the investigation is ongoing with support from state and federal agencies. Cuevas Rivas remains in custody and could face additional drug-related charges. Officials also noted that other individuals may face charges if further evidence emerges during the investigation. Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact authorities at (956) 687-8477. Information leading to an arrest may qualify for a cash reward.
Public SafetyMaradona's Last Psychologist Says Former Soccer Star Suffered from Bipolar Disorder
BUENOS AIRES – Carlos Díaz, the last psychologist to treat Diego Armando Maradona, testified on Thursday in the trial surrounding the soccer legend's death, stating that Maradona suffered from bipolar disorder. 'In Maradona, it was necessary to address a comorbid addiction condition. Beyond the addictive spectrum, there was a bipolar disorder and a narcissistic personality disorder to tackle,' Díaz told the court presiding over the trial. During his extensive testimony, Díaz, one of seven healthcare professionals accused in the case, detailed his relationship with the patient and the treatment provided during the 29 days leading up to Maradona's death, which occurred without alcohol or other substances in his bloodstream, according to the autopsy. This marks the second trial regarding the football star's passing.
Public Safety17-Year-Old Arrested for Allegedly Providing Alcohol to Minors
Devin Davila, 17, was arrested on April 29, 2026, for allegedly purchasing or supplying alcohol to a minor. He was taken before the McAllen Municipal Court and later transferred to the Hidalgo County Jail with a personal bond set at $3,000. The arrest is part of an investigation into a report of multiple individuals under the age of 21 found in possession of alcoholic beverages. According to police, the investigation began following an incident reported on April 11, 2026, at a residence located in the 1800 block of Kingsborough Avenue in McAllen, Texas. A magistrate from the McAllen Municipal Court determined there was sufficient probable cause to issue an arrest warrant for Davila, charging him with a Class 'A' misdemeanor. Davila also faces charges for allegedly falsifying his age as a minor, a Class 'C' misdemeanor, as well as possession of alcohol by a minor, another Class 'C' misdemeanor. Authorities stated the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests or charges may follow. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact McAllen Crime Stoppers at 956-687-TIPS (8477). Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward, and anonymous tips can also be submitted via the 'P3 Tips' app. Separately, McAllen police issued 25 citations for alcohol possession by minors after responding to a report of a party at a residence rented through Airbnb.
Public SafetyIncrease in Fake Insurance Cases in Texas; Be Prepared and Report Them!
Some consumers, in search of the best auto insurance deal, may learn the hard way that the discount was too good to be true. At Ann Nguyen's State Farm office in Arlington, the insurance agent has been receiving calls from consumers with questions about policies Nguyen did not issue. “This is an example of a fraudulent insurance card someone sent us,” Nguyen said, referring to a digital card featuring the State Farm logo. “Part of the formatting is slightly off.” The card includes Nguyen’s name as the agent, but she did not issue the policy—it doesn’t exist. Consumers believed they had purchased liability insurance but paid someone through an unofficial website or social media. Often, they discover the policies are fake after an accident or a traffic stop. “They truly believed they were buying real insurance, and it’s very unfortunate,” Nguyen said. This issue doesn’t just affect Nguyen or State Farm. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) reported an increase in fraud cases involving fake insurance cards. In 2023, there were 38 reports to TDI. By 2025, the number had risen to 126, and 37 fraud reports were recorded in the first three months of this year—a sign the problem isn’t slowing down. Purchasing by Recommendation On the day Nguyen was interviewed, Lisa Hartman from Minnesota called her office. Hartman said she was helping a consumer named Raul Manzano respond to a court citation following a traffic stop. “They thought they had insurance to cover these things, but they don’t; it’s been horrible,” Hartman told NBC 5 Responds. Manzano now has to appear in court for possession of an invalid, altered, or fictitious insurance ID card. He told NBC 5 Responds he was looking for a cheaper policy when he paid $1,500 in cash for what he believed was six months of auto insurance coverage. Manzano, who does not have a U.S. driver’s license, said he relied on a recommendation and paid someone who knew someone selling insurance. He explained he didn’t realize the insurance proof he received indicated liability coverage in Texas, at least four states away from Minnesota. Hartman said they have been unable to contact the person Manzano paid, and it’s unclear where his money went. “He has a work permit and is trying to be here and do everything as legally as possible,” Hartman said. In Texas, Nguyen said she is working to gather information about who sold the fake insurance to consumers: “Who are they calling? Where are they meeting these people?” Nguyen noted that another consumer shared a phone number for someone they contacted. Telemundo 39 Responde reporter Olivia Martinez and NBC 5 Responds reporter Diana Zoga attempted to text and call that number but received no response. Warning Signs to Watch For Nguyen said most reports she receives involve immigrants who purchased fake insurance cards. The TDI warns that anyone can be a target. “Don’t rush to buy insurance. If you see something on social media saying, ‘Hey, there’s a great deal today,’ insurance companies typically don’t offer deals,” said Mistie Hinote of TDI. Hinote explained that this scam impacts all drivers. If an uninsured driver hits you, you may have to file an uninsured motorist claim on your policy—assuming you have that coverage. “That money comes out of the insurance company’s pocket, and they’ll pass it on to insured customers through higher premiums. So, we’re all seeing the effects of insurance fraud through our premiums,” Hinote said. When searching for insurance, TDI recommends ensuring the person selling the policy is licensed in Texas. Verify that the insurance company itself is legitimate. Consumers can call TDI’s helpline at 800-252-3439 for inquiries. Consumers can also report suspected fraud to the helpline. TDI advises against paying premiums in cash or through third-party payment apps. Legitimate insurers may offer online payment options, but only through their official website or app. TDI noted that scammers often rely on external payment platforms. Nguyen pointed out another red flag: anyone offering insurance with minimal questioning. “These scammers probably aren’t asking all the detailed or thorough questions we would need to issue a legitimate policy,” Nguyen said.
Public SafetyFormer Chick-fil-A Employee Accused of Stealing $80,000 Through 'Mac and Cheese' Fraud
DALLAS, Texas – A former Chick-fil-A employee has been accused of stealing over $80,000 through a fraudulent refund scheme, according to Grapevine police. In November 2025, police reported that Keyshun Jones was caught on surveillance video behind the counter of the restaurant, from which he had been fired a month earlier. Authorities stated that Jones allegedly used the restaurant's cash register to process 800 orders of mac and cheese trays and then refunded the amounts to his personal credit cards.
Public SafetySuspect in White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting to Remain in Custody
The accused shooter who allegedly opened fire during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner last weekend will remain in custody. Public defenders for Cole Tomas Allen had pushed for his release, but during a hearing on Thursday, they stated he 'accepted detention for now.' Cole Tomas Allen, a 31-year-old teacher and engineer from California, was charged on Monday with attempting to assassinate the president and other related offenses after allegedly firing shots outside the crowded ballroom of the Washington Hilton, where President Donald Trump and other White House officials had gathered with journalists for the annual dinner. Allen was apprehended after a U.S. Secret Service agent fired multiple shots at him. A criminal complaint notes that Allen fell to the ground and sustained minor injuries but was not struck by gunfire. In a court filing on Wednesday supporting Allen's pretrial release, his public defenders argued that he has no criminal record and was 'stably employed as a tutor' in California. The attorneys stated that Allen 'has the support of family and friends' who would ensure he complied with release conditions. 'As previously noted, Mr. Allen’s background and characteristics favor his release in this case,' the public defenders wrote, describing him as a 'beloved and respected teacher and colleague who has consistently demonstrated kindness, empathy, and compassion, and never violence.'
Public SafetyMother-in-law of slain former beauty queen arrested in Venezuela; allegedly shot her six times
The Mexico City Attorney General's Office has confirmed the arrest in Venezuela of the suspect accused of fatally shooting Carolina Flores, a former beauty queen from Baja California. Flores, 27, was found dead in her home in an upscale neighborhood of Mexico City's Miguel Hidalgo borough. Authorities identified the suspect as Erika María 'N,' the victim's mother-in-law, who fled to Venezuela after allegedly committing the crime that shocked the nation. 'In coordination with authorities from the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Erika María 'N,' the probable perpetrator of the femicide of a 27-year-old woman, was arrested,' the Attorney General's Office announced in a statement on its X account. The suspect remains in custody in Venezuela, awaiting extradition to Mexico, where she could face a prison sentence of 40 to 60 years.
Public SafetyCharges Dismissed Against Alma Garza Accused of Evidence Tampering
According to court documents, charges against Alma Enríquez Garza, who had been accused of tampering or fabricating physical evidence with the intent to affect an investigation, have been dismissed after a judge dropped the case. The judge granted a motion filed by Garza's legal representative to dismiss the charges, citing insufficient evidence to proceed with the case. Alma Enríquez Garza, 58, was arrested on February 2 in connection with a report involving another individual accused of injuring a minor. At the time, Garza had been released on a $15,000 bond. The alleged incident occurred on January 26, 2026, involving daycare employee Brenda Rae Pérez, who is accused of striking a one-year-old child under her care. Pérez was charged with injury to a child and released on a $50,000 bond. Daycare administrator arrested in connection with alleged child abuse incident.
Public SafetyCharges Dropped Against Alma Garza Accused of Evidence Tampering
According to court documents, charges against Alma Enríquez Garza, who had been accused of tampering with or fabricating physical evidence with the intent to affect an investigation, have been dismissed after a judge granted a motion to drop the case. The documents indicate that the judge approved the request made by Garza's legal representative to dismiss the charges. However, the reasons for the dismissal were not publicly disclosed and appear to be based solely on the state's motion. Alma Enríquez Garza, 58, was arrested on February 2 in connection with a report involving another individual accused of causing injuries to a minor. At the time, Garza's bond was set at $15,000. The alleged incident occurred on January 26, 2026, involving daycare employee Brenda Rae Pérez, who is accused of striking a one-year-old child under her care. Pérez was charged with injury to a child and given a $50,000 bond. Daycare administrator arrested in connection with alleged child abuse case.
