Public Safety
Public Safety news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Public SafetyEdinburg police warn residents about phone spoofing scam calls
The Edinburg Police Department has issued a warning to residents regarding a phone spoofing scam. Scammers are using technology to disguise their calls as coming from the police department, soliciting personal or financial information. The police emphasize that they will never request such information over the phone. Residents receiving suspicious calls are encouraged to report them by contacting the Edinburg Police Department at 956-289-7700.
Public SafetyTexas Military Department Joins Forces with Civilian Agencies for SAREX 2026
The Texas Military Department participated in the 2026 Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) held in San Antonio from May 18 to 21. This year marked 12 years of collaboration among various agencies to enhance disaster response readiness. The exercise involved 22 aircraft from 13 agencies, including the Air Force and National Guard units, and featured over 335 participants. Key activities included 275 hoists and 339 personnel movements, simulating real-life disaster scenarios. Officials emphasized the importance of this training for effective coordination during emergencies, aiming to ensure that all aviation resources in Texas are prepared for future disasters.
Public SafetyNevada truck driver charged with 20 counts of human smuggling after South Texas traffic stop
Editor's note: The video above, provided by DPS, is from the May 26 traffic stop. HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — More than a dozen people believed to be in the country illegally were found inside a truck tractor during a traffic stop near Laredo last week, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. DPS identified
Public SafetyEnergy drink distributor denies 'each and every allegation' in Weslaco cheerleader's wrongful death lawsuit
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In its first response since being accused of contributing to the death of a Weslaco cheerleader who, according to attorneys, died from an enlarged heart due to excessive caffeine consumption, an energy drink distributor is denying "each and every allegation" levied against it. Attorneys for Glazer's Beer and Beverage of Texas
Public SafetyMultiple Vehicle Accident at Monte Cristo and Closner Leaves Several Injured in Edinburg
A multi-vehicle accident involving a tractor-trailer caused partial road closures Monday afternoon at the intersection of Monte Cristo and Closner in Edinburg. According to authorities, around 4 p.m., a white tractor-trailer traveling south on Closner entered the intersection and collided with a Toyota Camry, a Ford Bronco, a Nissan, and another tractor-trailer carrying watermelons. Emergency services responded to the scene and reported minor injuries. Several individuals were transported to local hospitals for medical attention. As a result of the accident, northbound lanes on Closner remain closed, and traffic is being diverted through the Cattle Baron area. Only one lane is open for southbound traffic. Authorities noted that Monte Cristo remains open to traffic in both directions while work continues in the area. Drivers are advised to seek alternate routes and expect delays in the vicinity.
Public SafetyDPS Arrests Man for Possession of Hundreds of AI-Generated Images of South Texas Children
Adan Covarrubias, a 31-year-old man from Carrizo Springs, was arrested by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for felony possession of computer-generated child pornography. This arrest follows an investigation involving the FBI and the Dimmitt County Sheriff’s Office, which uncovered over 900 AI-generated pornographic images of children, some of which were manipulated from publicly available school photos. Covarrubias faces charges under Senate Bill 20, aimed at combating child exploitation through technology. Approximately 30 child victims have been identified in this case, highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect children from online threats.
Public SafetyCBP Officers Seize more than $1.1M in Cocaine at the Progreso Port of Entry
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized over $1.1 million in cocaine at the Progreso Port of Entry during Memorial Day weekend. The incident occurred on May 23 when a 22-year-old U.S. citizen driving a 2026 GMC Sierra was referred for a secondary inspection. Using a nonintrusive inspection system, CBP officers found 33 packages containing a total of 88 pounds of cocaine hidden in the vehicle. The estimated street value of the drugs is $1,175,085.
Public SafetyICE Agent Wanted for Shooting in Minnesota Arrested in Cameron County
The federal immigration agent has been identified as 52-year-old Christian Castro, an employee of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to authorities, Castro faces four charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and one charge of falsely reporting a crime, and he remains in custody without bail. The arrest occurred after investigators located the suspect in Texas. The Texas Rangers assisted in the arrest made in Cameron County. The charges are related to an incident that took place on January 14 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where prosecutors allege that Castro shot through the front door of a residence, injuring a Venezuelan man identified as Julio César Sosa-Celis.
Public SafetyWith ventilation and transport rail: drug tunnel found between the US-Mexico border
SAN DIEGO – Mexican authorities discovered a tunnel equipped with lighting, ventilation, and even a transport rail, between the borders of Tijuana and San Diego. The tunnel was found on Saturday during a search warrant at a residence in the Nueva Tijuana neighborhood, according to the Attorney General's Office. The tunnel is approximately 265 meters (about 869 feet) long and 6.30 meters (21 feet) deep, according to officials. The Attorney General's Office indicated that it believes the property likely served as a storage and trafficking center for weapons, explosives, and illegal substances.
Public Safety"That's not my dad": Funeral home allegedly cremated a man by mistake, according to family complaint
A Hispanic family in Washington Heights, Manhattan, is devastated after a funeral home mistakenly cremated their father, José Luis Díaz Felipe. The error was discovered when family members opened the casket during the funeral and found a different body. Jacinta Díaz, his daughter, expressed her anguish, stating that they were repeatedly shown the wrong body. The Ortiz Funeral Home, which has a history of similar incidents, previously faced a lawsuit in 2022 after nearly 50 complaints, resulting in a $600,000 settlement. The family is considering legal action but also empathizes with the other affected family. They demand DNA evidence before accepting any actions from the funeral home.
Public SafetyHonda recalls nearly 100,000 vehicles due to airbag issues
Honda is recalling nearly 100,000 vehicles due to airbag issues, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall affects models including the Honda Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Acura MDX and RDX. A defect in the front passenger seat weight sensor may cause airbags to deploy unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury, especially to small occupants. Honda has received 228 warranty claims related to this issue but reports no injuries or fatalities in the U.S. Owners will be notified by mail starting July 6 and should take their vehicles to authorized dealers for repairs.
Public SafetyAlligator sighting in Port Mansfield prompts safety warning
The Port Mansfield Police Department has issued a safety alert following the sighting of an 8-to-10-foot alligator near the South Airboat Ramp in South Bayside. Authorities, including the Texas Game Wardens, are urging the public to exercise caution, particularly wade fishermen and kayakers. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid waterways where the alligator may be present. If anyone encounters the alligator, they should not approach or attempt to feed it, as this could pose a danger to both people and the animal.
Public SafetyTexas school police pepper-sprayed, tackled and tasered students
Recent reports reveal alarming incidents involving police officers in Texas schools using excessive force against students. Following the Uvalde tragedy, school districts have invested billions in police presence, leading to aggressive tactics for minor misbehaviors. Over 2,600 use-of-force incidents were documented from January 2022 to December 2025, with officers often escalating situations. Cases include a 15-year-old boy tackled for throwing food and a 10-year-old boy hogtied for a behavioral issue. Critics argue that the approach to school discipline has shifted dangerously, with many feeling that police are overstepping their roles. The lack of comprehensive oversight raises concerns about accountability.
Public Safety8 to 10 ft. alligator spotted in Port Mansfield: Police
PORT MANSFIELD, Texas (ValleyCentral) — An 8 to 10-foot alligator has been spotted near the South Airboat Ramp, south Bayside, according to the Port Mansfield Police Department. In a social media post, Port Mansfield police stated that the department and the Texas Game Wardens have been notified of the alligator and are advising the public, especially
Public SafetySuspect in deadly Brownsville shooting pleads guilty to manslaughter
Israel Solis, a 36-year-old man, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of 33-year-old Omar Garcia in Brownsville on March 26, 2023. The murder charge against Solis was dismissed as part of his plea deal. Reports indicate that Solis was firing his gun in the air when Garcia approached him to ask him to stop. An altercation ensued, leading Solis to shoot Garcia in the chest. After the incident, Solis attempted to flee but was restrained by Garcia's relatives until police arrived. Sentencing is scheduled for August 3, 2026.
Public SafetyA swarm of bees kills a man while he was clearing land
A 50-year-old man, identified as Javier Cabrera and a resident of Corozal, died after being stung by bees in an incident reported early Saturday on PR-159, near the Nuevo Milenio school in the municipality of Toa Alta. According to preliminary information, the man—who was a truck driver—was clearing land when some movement disturbed the hive, and the swarm attacked him.
Public SafetyBrownsville police confirm hotel deaths were murder-suicide
The Brownsville Police Department has confirmed that the deaths at a Holiday Inn were a murder-suicide. The deceased man, 39-year-old German Navarro Lopez, reportedly shot the female victim before taking his own life. Authorities revealed that Lopez and the woman were in a relationship. The tragic incident was discovered by hotel staff on Thursday, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Public SafetyPolice: Raymondville infant died after mother bathed her in hot water
A 19-year-old woman, Lydia Estrella De La Rosa, faces multiple charges after her 7-month-old daughter died from severe burns following a hot water bath in Raymondville. Police Chief Uvaldo Zamora reported that De La Rosa was arraigned on charges including manslaughter and injury to a child, with no bond granted for the serious charges. The incident occurred Thursday when officers responded to a report of an infant with a high fever. An investigation revealed that 90% of the baby's body had second- and third-degree burns. De La Rosa has a history of violent crime and was on probation at the time of the incident.
Public SafetyCity of Edinburg warns residents of phone call scam
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Officials with the city of Edinburg are alerting residents of a scam concerning callers impersonating the Edinburg Police Department. The city is reporting that the scam callers are asking for personal information. "The Edinburg Police Department will never ask for personal or banking information over the phone," the city stated in