Public Safety
Public Safety news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Public SafetySounding the Alarm Over Suspected Texas Screwworm Case
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has raised concerns over the first suspected case of New World screwworm in Texas, criticizing the USDA for its slow response that allowed the pest to spread from Mexico. He urged President Trump to implement the Screwworm Adult Suppression System (SWASS) to combat the infestation. Miller emphasized the need for immediate action, including funding for SWASS deployment, establishing a U.S.-Mexico task force, and enhancing surveillance efforts. The screwworm poses a significant threat to livestock and wildlife, potentially leading to severe economic impacts for Texas ranchers and the agricultural sector.
Public SafetyDPS Advises Public to Download iWatchTexas Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
As Texas gears up to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is promoting the iWatchTexas program. This initiative allows individuals to report suspicious activities anonymously, enhancing safety during the event. With millions expected to visit, DPS emphasizes that safety is a collective responsibility. Reports can be made via the mobile app, online, or by phone, and are reviewed by law enforcement. The program aims to prevent potential threats by encouraging the public to report concerning behaviors, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.
Public SafetyExplosion at a Warehouse with Four Gas Tanks in Mexico Leaves Injured
MEXICO CITY – An explosion at a warehouse storing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks in the Mexican state of Puebla resulted in three injuries, who are currently receiving hospital care, state governor Alejandro Armenta reported on Thursday. According to available information, the explosion of the four gas tanks occurred at 9:53 local time, but the causes of the accident are currently unknown. "The individuals involved in this incident have already been transferred... I have information here about three injured people. We want them to be treated immediately, and that is being done," the governor stated to the media. So far, authorities have not reported any fatalities.
Public SafetyFord recalls nearly 420,000 vehicles due to seatbelt issue that could cause injury
Ford is recalling nearly 420,000 vehicles due to a seatbelt problem that could lead to injury in the event of a crash. The recall affects certain 2018 to 2022 model year Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The issue involves seatbelts that may inadvertently lock, preventing them from retracting or extending. The NHTSA report states that a seatbelt that does not retract or extend could result in injury during a crash. Individuals could also be injured in some cases if the seatbelt retracts rapidly. This recall replaces and expands upon two previous NHTSA recalls. The report indicates that Ford Motor Co. is aware of two warranty claims and two field reports related to the latest recall. The company is also aware of one injury.
Public SafetyTrial Against Young Man Accused of Killing His Classmate in a Competition in Texas
After a controversial jury selection process that saw the removal of three jurors (African Americans), the trial against 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony has finally begun in Collin County. Anthony admitted to stabbing Justin Metcalf, a fellow high school student in Frisco, in April 2025, and the defense argues that he acted in self-defense. The controversy erupted because, of the 12 jurors, three were African American, like Anthony, and the judge decided to dismiss them because they are educators. This has sparked anger, with many labeling the trial as racially charged. Discussions on social media highlight that the accused is Black and the victim was Anglo-Saxon, and now all jurors are Anglo-Saxon.
Public SafetyAuthorities Seek to Identify Suspect in Home Depot Thefts in Harlingen
Authorities in Harlingen are seeking to identify a suspect linked to multiple thefts at a Home Depot store. The individual is considered a person of interest in an ongoing investigation, though specific details about the stolen items or the dates of the incidents have not been disclosed. Local officials are urging anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information about their whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers. Tips can be submitted by calling 956-425-TIPS (8477) or through the P3 Tips mobile app.
Public SafetyRio Grande City man accused of helping move a body in Peñitas double homicide pleads not guilty
Alejandro Lopez, a 43-year-old man from Rio Grande City, pleaded not guilty to capital murder charges related to a double homicide in Peñitas. He is one of six suspects arrested in connection with the deaths of Mario Morales Jr. and Maria Del Socorro Farias. The victims were found in a burned vehicle on February 3, with autopsy results indicating they died from gunshot wounds. Three other men face similar charges, while two women are charged with tampering with evidence. Lopez allegedly assisted in moving one of the bodies. A hearing for him is scheduled for July 29.
Public SafetyThousands in repair: RGV cities warn residents over wastewater systems clogged by wipes and debris
Cities in the Rio Grande Valley are alerting residents about the costly issue of clogged wastewater systems due to improper disposal of items like wipes and debris. Alamo city crews discovered various materials, including stuffed animals, in lift stations, leading to significant repair costs. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized that the buildup can cause equipment failures, resulting in thousands of dollars in expenses for the city. Residents like Belia Rocha and Esperanza Guadalupe de la Fuente have witnessed firsthand the consequences of littering, urging their neighbors to dispose of trash properly. Alamo has 27 lift stations, with daily checks and plans to expand maintenance resources.
Public SafetyEdcouch man pleads not guilty after allegedly confessing to fatal shooting
Emanuel Ibarra Flores, a 19-year-old from Edcouch, has pleaded not guilty to murder despite allegedly confessing to fatally shooting 45-year-old Randy Luna Herrera on January 3 in Pharr. According to police, officers found Herrera with multiple gunshot wounds at the scene on Chickadee Street. Flores reportedly admitted to shooting Herrera multiple times with a rifle after being warned by a relative about threats made by Herrera. The victim was unarmed at the time of the incident. A hearing for Flores is scheduled for August 17, and he was released on bond on January 30.
Public Safety'Go get a job, don't rob from us': Harlingen RV park residents respond after break-ins
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A series of burglaries at a Harlingen RV park has left residents concerned and prompted neighbors to take extra steps to protect their community. According to the Harlingen Police Department, officers have received about half a dozen reports of break-ins at Encore Paradise Park over the past several weeks. Police say
Public SafetyPlea deal being sought for Edinburg man accused of killing motorcyclist
Kevin Alfredo Gonzalez, a 20-year-old from Edinburg, is facing charges of criminal negligent homicide following a fatal motorcycle accident on January 12, 2024. Prosecutors are offering a plea deal that includes five years of deferred adjudication, a $3,000 fine, and restitution. A hearing is scheduled for July 29 for Gonzalez to decide on the plea. The incident resulted in the death of Isaiah Angelo Torres, who was struck while Gonzalez attempted an unsafe turn on La Homa Road near West Mile 4 Road. Gonzalez was arrested on June 2, 2025, and later released on a $20,000 bond.
Public SafetyOvernight lane, ramp closures in Mercedes: TxDOT
MERCEDES, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Replacements on overhead signs along Interstate 2 will prompt overnight lane and ramp closures in Mercedes. The Texas Department of Transportation will begin replacing the signs on Wednesday night on the westbound Interstate 2 and Vermont Avenue. Maintenance work will prompt closures on nearby entrance and exit ramps, including a right
Public SafetyValley mother, daughter found guilty of attempted smuggling at Sarita checkpoint
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A federal jury on Wednesday found a Weslaco mother and her daughter guilty of attempting to smuggle a man past the Sarita checkpoint last year. Enedelia Garcia, 55, of Weslaco, and Ashley Garcia, 37, of Brownsville, face up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors say that on July 22, 2025, the
Public SafetyDriver in custody after evading authorities in Harlingen: DPS
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A driver is in custody on Wednesday afternoon after evading authorities in Harlingen, according to a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Several DPS units and EMS were seen at the intersection of the Frontage Road and F. Street at about 4:14 p.m. DPS says a white BMW evaded
Public SafetyHorseshoe Bay Child Predator Named Featured Fugitive for June
Victor Ramos Jr., a 19-year-old child predator from Horseshoe Bay, has been named the Featured Fugitive for June by Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders. He is wanted in Llano County for failing to comply with sex offender registration since August 2025, following a conviction for sexual assault of a child. A warrant for his arrest was issued due to a probation violation. A reward of $4,000 is offered for information leading to his capture during June. Ramos has connections to Burnet County, including Cottonwood Shores and Marble Falls. Tips can be submitted anonymously through various methods.
Public SafetyTeen charged with murder in connection with Pharr shooting pleads not guilty
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A teen charged with murder in connection with a deadly Pharr shooting pleaded not guilty on Wednesday, according to the Hidalgo County 430th District Court. Emanuel Flores, 19, was charged with murder, a first-degree felony, in January. On Jan. 3, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Pharr police responded to a home on the
Public SafetyFour Tren de Aragua Members Plead Guilty to 2024 Double Murder
Four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, including Keiber Jaen Martinez, Samuel Gonzalez Castro, Eferson Morillo-Gomez, and Keineyer Ibarra-Mujica, pleaded guilty to multiple murder charges in connection with the May 24, 2024, killings of Claretha LaQuesha Daniels and Justin Lawless in the Bronx, New York. They were also involved in the non-fatal shooting of a third victim. A fifth member, Jarwin Valero-Calderon, previously pleaded guilty to racketeering. The U.S. Department of Justice emphasized the gang's violent history and commitment to dismantling such organizations in the U.S. All eight defendants in this case have been convicted.
Public SafetyHorror: Prominent real estate agent, her daughters, and ex-husband die in apparent murder-suicide
A prominent real estate agent from South Florida, her two young daughters, and the girls' father were identified as the deceased in an apparent murder-suicide case in the city of Doral. Melanie Hyer, 46, was a real estate professional known for her expertise and frequently interviewed by the media about the South Florida real estate market. Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Office officials reported that Hyer was among four people found dead inside a home in the Doral Isles neighborhood during a welfare check on Tuesday night. Hyer's daughters, 11-year-old Savannah Whiten and 8-year-old Sienna Whiten, were also found dead in the home, along with their father, 42-year-old Ryan Charles Whiten. All had stab wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene, which the sheriff's office is treating as a murder-suicide. Although the couple had separated years ago, they shared custody of their daughters and had both remarried, though those relationships also ended. Court records show Hyer was married to another man until March of this year. The last known address for Whiten was an apartment in Doral Isles. The news shocked the community, including Doral Mayor Christi Fraga, who personally knew Hyer. Fraga called it an 'unimaginable tragedy' and added in a statement, 'As a mother, and as someone who personally knew and admired the loving and dedicated mother at the center of this tragedy, this loss feels especially close.' Former NBC6 investigative journalist Willard Shepard, a close friend of Hyer, expressed devastation upon learning of her death. 'She was an extremely generous person in her professional life; she was an expert in estate issues, foreclosures, that sort of thing,' Shepard said. 'I spoke with her probably a month and a half ago, with no signs or indications of anything like this, and obviously, if there had been any signs, I would have said something or taken some action; but there was simply nothing that indicated this could have happened.' Shepard mentioned that neighbors told him the girls had gone biking with Ryan Whiten on Sunday. Parents, teachers, and students at the girls' school, Downtown Doral Elementary, were also mourning on Wednesday, as grief counselors were made available. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, our faculty and staff at our elementary school, where they currently attended, and our high school. Both students were deeply loved by their school, their teachers, and their peers,' said school principal Jeannette Acevedo-Isenberg in an email to parents. The girls were also members of the Doral field hockey team, which remembered them in an Instagram post on Wednesday. 'Our thoughts and sincerest condolences are with their family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by them,' the post read. 'They were an important part of our community and will be remembered for their kindness, friendship, and the positive impact they had on everyone around them.' Local resident Consuelo Paredes expressed being 'super sad, the community where this happened is very quiet.' Detectives are now trying to piece together the hours leading up to the tragedy to determine exactly what occurred inside the home to clarify the motives behind this chilling crime. Authorities continue to process evidence and interview family members and close associates of the victims. So far, they have not revealed who may have committed the attacks or the possible motive behind this tragedy that has left an entire community searching for answers. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
Public SafetyTemporary Water Interruption Scheduled in Several Streets of Edinburg
Residents on Wendy Drive, Zepher Avenue, Ivy Lane, and nearby areas should prepare for a temporary water service interruption this Thursday due to emergency repair work. The city of Edinburg reported that the supply will be suspended approximately from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on June 4. The interruption will allow a contractor to complete urgent repair work on the water system infrastructure. They also recommend that affected families and businesses store enough water to meet their basic needs during the suspension period.