Public Safety
Public Safety news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Public SafetyImage of Person of Interest Released Following Robbery in Brownsville
The Brownsville Police Department is seeking to identify a man involved in a robbery at a store on the 1200 block of Minnesota Street. According to the police report, the suspect allegedly assaulted an employee during the incident. Details regarding the victim's health and the stolen items have not been disclosed. Authorities released the suspect's image in hopes that local residents can recognize him and provide information to assist in the investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Crime Stoppers hotline at 546-TIPS or submit a tip online at www.p3tips.com.
Public SafetyElderly Edinburg man killed in officer-involved shooting
An elderly man in Edinburg was shot and killed by police after he pointed a firearm at them. Police Chief Jaime Ayala reported that the incident occurred when the man, upset with irrigation workers near his home on Sprague Street, called the police to demand their departure. When officers arrived, he threatened to retrieve a gun if his demands were not met. He then drew a pistol and aimed it at the officers, prompting them to fire back. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, and the Texas Rangers are investigating the incident while an internal review is also underway.
Public SafetyDrug trafficker's former $1.7M Brownsville mansion to be sold at government auction: feds
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A $1.7 million mansion in Brownsville that once belonged to an alleged drug trafficker who was killed in a shootout in Mexico in 2023 will be sold at government auction. The home — located at 300 block of Cowan Terrace in Brownsville — has been civilly forfeited to the United States,
Public SafetyJudge Makes Public Possible Suicide Note of Epstein, Allegedly Found in 2019
A purported suicide note from Jeffrey Epstein, obtained by his former cellmate, was declassified this Wednesday by a federal judge. The handwritten letter on lined paper, which has yet to be authenticated, dates back to what was believed to be Epstein's failed suicide attempt on July 23, 2019, less than two weeks before his death. Epstein was found 'with a piece of orange fabric around his neck' and 'friction marks' on it, according to a report from the Justice Department's Office of the Inspector General. Epstein's cellmate informed authorities that he had attempted to hang himself.
Public SafetyEdinburg police investigating officer-involved shooting
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Edinburg Police Department is investigating an officer-involved shooting. Edinburg police Chief Jaime Ayala will host a press conference on Wednesday afternoon to provide details of the shooting. A livestream of the press conference will be available in this article. This is a developing story.
Public SafetyFirefighters charged after blocking car and pulling guns on victims near Edinburg, sheriff office says
Mark and Jessica Quintanilla, a firefighter and deputy chief from Edinburg, face aggravated assault charges after an incident near Edinburg. On April 26, around 11:51 a.m., they allegedly blocked another vehicle and brandished firearms during a confrontation. The victims reported that Mark made an obscene gesture before stopping aggressively in front of them. He exited his vehicle with a handgun, while Jessica followed and received a firearm from him. Both were arrested and released on a $5,000 bond. Jessica has been suspended indefinitely, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information should contact the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office.
Public SafetyMan, woman accused of threatening victims with gun in rural Edinburg: HCSO
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man and woman were arrested Monday after allegedly threatening victims with a gun in rural Edinburg, according to the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office. Jessica Quintanilla and Mark Quintanilla, both residents of Edinburg, were charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, Hidalgo County jail records show. On Sunday, April 26,
Public SafetyOvernight expressway closures in Brownsville for sign work: TxDOT
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A portion of the expressway in Brownsville will be closed starting Wednesday night for sign work. Crews will be replacing large overhead signs between Ruben Torres and Boca Chica Boulevard, resulting in lane and ramp closures from Wednesday through Friday. The closures are scheduled for the southbound lane of I-69 E,
Public SafetyDPS Scales Up Drone Defense for Global Soccer Fans
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has received approximately $3.2 million in federal funding from FEMA to enhance drone detection and mitigation technology ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This initiative aims to ensure public safety and protect critical infrastructure in Dallas and Houston, the host cities for the event. DPS plans to deploy advanced systems capable of monitoring airspace and managing unauthorized drone activity. Additionally, DPS personnel will undergo specialized training by the FBI to effectively respond to aerial threats. All drone operators are reminded to comply with FAA regulations to ensure safe operations.
Public SafetyEdinburg Police Investigate Shooting Involving Officer
The Edinburg Police Department confirmed that it is responding to this incident. So far, authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the event or whether there are any possible injuries. Police Chief Jaime Ayala stated that a press conference will be held as soon as more information becomes available. This is a developing story; stay informed on TELEMUNDO 40.
Public SafetyLa Villa Fire Department receives donation to secure new truck, equipment
LA VILLA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A new fire truck and new equipment are coming to the La Villa Fire Department. The new resources were announced on Tuesday by Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), who secured approximately $919,000 to donate to the La Villa Fire Department. "I'm really proud and happy to be able to do this," Gonzalez
Public SafetySuspect in police custody after making online threat about Homer J. Morris Middle School, district says
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —A person is in police custody after allegedly making an online threat about Homer J. Morris Middle School on Tuesday night, according to the McAllen Independent School District. On Tuesday at 9:54 p.m., McAllen ISD informed parents with students from Homer J. Morris Middle School that the McAllen Police Department was investigating
Public SafetyCrime in Texas: New Details on Deceased Family Linked to Famous Restaurants
HOUSTON, Texas – A tragedy that has shaken Houston and garnered national attention continues to unfold, as family members and close sources have identified the four members of a prominent family who died in what authorities are investigating as a murder-suicide in the affluent neighborhood of River Oaks. Although the Houston Police have not officially confirmed their identities, information has circulated widely in recent hours, increasing pressure on a case that remains shrouded in questions. According to authorities, the crime occurred on the afternoon of Monday, May 4, at a residence located in the 2100 block of Kingston Street in the River Oaks area. The Houston Police reported that a 52-year-old man, a 39-year-old woman, an 8-year-old girl, and a 4-year-old boy were found dead in the home, all with gunshot wounds. Family members and sources close to the family, as well as individuals connected to their businesses, have identified the deceased as Matthew Mitchell, Thy Mitchell, and their two children. However, Telemundo Houston has not been able to independently confirm this information through authorities, as the verification process is still being handled by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. According to investigators, preliminary evidence at the scene suggests that the man shot the woman and the children before taking his own life. Police noted that there were no previous reports of domestic violence at that address. The family was known in the city for owning the restaurants Traveler’s Table and Traveler’s Cart, located in the Montrose area, businesses that have gained recognition within the local and national culinary industry. On social media, a relative of the woman posted a message confirming the deaths of her sister and her nephews, which has been one of the main sources of public identification circulating. Additionally, the official account of the restaurants issued a brief message thanking the community for their support and requesting privacy during this time. Meanwhile, friends, colleagues, and members of the restaurant community have begun leaving flowers and messages in front of the residence, remembering the family as active and cherished figures in Houston. Authorities continue to investigate the case to clarify the timeline of events and a possible motive. If you or someone you know is facing a domestic violence situation, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential assistance.
Public SafetyTexas Man Charged in Shooting of Secret Service Agent in Washington D.C.
TEXAS – Michael Marx, 45, a resident of Midland, Texas, was charged Wednesday in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court related to a shooting that occurred on Monday, May 4, near the Washington Monument in the National Mall, where a civilian bystander was injured by gunfire; this was announced by federal prosecutor Jeanine Ferris Pirro. Marx faces three federal charges: assault on federal agents with a dangerous weapon, using and discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents, on May 4, 2026, around 3:40 p.m., a plainclothes U.S. Secret Service agent observed a man—later identified as Marx—who appeared to be concealing a firearm on the right side of his body near 15th Street and Madison Drive NW. The agent alerted the Secret Service Joint Operations Center and requested uniformed backup. At the same time, Vice President J.D. Vance's convoy was leaving the White House, passing through the area of 15th Street and Independence Avenue SW. Uniformed Secret Service agents responded to the call and located Marx along the route of the vice president's convoy. As the agents approached, Marx walked toward a group of civilians crossing the street. The agents issued verbal commands. Marx fled east on Independence Avenue SW. As the agents pursued him, Marx pulled a firearm from his waistband while running across the crosswalk toward pedestrians. Upon reaching the sidewalk, Marx turned and fired at one of the pursuing agents. A civilian witness behind the agent was struck in the leg. The agents returned fire, injuring Marx in the hand, left arm, and upper abdomen. Marx collapsed at the intersection of 15th Street and Independence Avenue SW, where the agents provided assistance. He was identified using a Texas driver's license found among his belongings. Authorities also identified several aliases, including Patrick Michael and Michael Zavici. Marx was transported to George Washington University Hospital. While in the ambulance, he allegedly made statements to the agents, such as: 'Screw the White House' and 'Kill me, kill me, kill me.' Investigators recovered a Sig Sauer P365 handgun, loaded with 9 mm ammunition, in the area where Marx fell. Authorities confirmed that Marx does not have a permit to carry firearms in the District of Columbia. Marx remained hospitalized Tuesday morning with multiple gunshot wounds, including to his back and leg. According to NBC News police sources, his injuries are not life-threatening. A 15-year-old bystander was struck by gunfire. The teenager suffered a possible superficial grazing injury to the lower body, according to police sources. He walked to an ambulance, where he was treated by paramedics. President Donald Trump was holding a small business event inside the White House when the incident occurred and was not aware that anything had happened at that time. The shooting prompted a brief evacuation of the North Lawn of the White House, according to Monica Alba of NBC News. Members of the press in the lawn were evacuated shortly after 3:40 p.m., when Secret Service officers ran out with drawn rifles and instructed them to run inside to the conference room. Reporters were allowed to come back out about seven minutes later. Streets in the area were closed due to the emergency response and investigation. The White House is located approximately one mile north of the Washington Monument.
Public SafetyCouple Charged with Firearm Threats Following Road Altercation
According to a report from the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, around 11:51 a.m., following a call about a terroristic threat in the 6100 block of Barb Mar Lane, in a rural area of Edinburg. The victims, identified as Samantha Rincón and Jonathan García, reported that they were driving on Ingle Road when they were intercepted by the suspects, 39-year-old Mark Quintanilla and 38-year-old Jessica Quintanilla. According to their accounts, Mark Quintanilla passed their vehicle, made an obscene gesture, then blocked their path, exited his car with a firearm, and demanded that one of the occupants get out of the vehicle. During the investigation, Mark Quintanilla admitted to following the victims and confirmed that he had firearms in his vehicle. Jessica also confirmed that she was carrying a weapon during the incident. As a result, both were charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a second-degree felony, and each was given a bond of $5,000. The case is under investigation as authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact 956-383-8114 or anonymously through the Crime Stoppers Line at 956-668-TIPS (8477). AI tools helped convert this news into a digital version, and a journalist from Telemundo Digital edited the article for publication.
Public SafetyMillion-Dollar Mansion in Brownsville Linked to Drug Trafficking to Be Auctioned
The mansion is estimated to be worth approximately $1.7 million, and federal judge Fernando Rodríguez Jr. ordered its seizure, considering it linked to an alleged major cocaine supplier with multiple cartel connections. The federal investigation also revealed that thousands of kilograms of cocaine were reportedly smuggled from Mexico into the United States for distribution in several states, including California, Nevada, North Carolina, Indiana, and Florida. The court document adds that the property features six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and over 6,900 square feet of construction, and that illicit funds were used not only to acquire the home but also to make significant improvements, such as building a pool, an additional house next to it, and complete renovations. With no claims filed against the property, authorities indicated it will be sold at a government auction.
Public SafetyNighttime Road Closures Scheduled for I-69E in Brownsville Area
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has announced nighttime lane closures on I-69E (US 77) in Brownsville for sign replacement work. The closures will take place from Wednesday, May 6, to Friday, May 8, between 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM. Drivers should expect multiple lane closures, as well as closures of entrances and exits between Ruben Torres Boulevard and Boca Chica Boulevard. On May 6, the focus will be on the exit to State Highway 48, while on May 7, work will shift to the exit for Old Alice Road. TxDOT advises drivers to exercise caution and consider alternate routes to avoid delays.
Public SafetyJuvenile remains hospitalized in critical condition following Cameron County hit-and-run crash
A juvenile is in critical condition after a hit-and-run incident in Cameron County early Monday morning. The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that the crash occurred around 2:26 a.m. on State Highway 48, near the Jaime J. Zapata Memorial Boat Ramp. Two juveniles were parked due to car troubles when a vehicle sideswiped them, injuring both. While one juvenile has been released from the hospital, the other requires surgery. Authorities have identified the suspect vehicle and are pursuing an arrest for the female driver who fled the scene.
Public SafetyFormer FedEx driver sentenced to death for killing 7-year-old girl after delivery at her Texas home
A former FedEx driver, Tanner Horner, was sentenced to death for the murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand in Texas. Horner, 34, pleaded guilty to capital murder last month, just as his trial began. The jury heard evidence, including audio from his delivery van, revealing the horrific circumstances of Athena's abduction and murder. Her body was discovered two days after she was reported missing from her home in Paradise. Prosecutors argued that Horner posed a continuing threat to society, and jurors found no reason to consider life imprisonment instead of the death penalty. Athena's family had been expecting a Christmas gift from Horner.