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NationalFormer Honduran President Returns to His Country to Face Justice After Being Pardoned by the U.S.
Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández returned to Honduras on Sunday after being pardoned by the United States. He was welcomed by hundreds at Palmerola International Airport. Hernández, who was extradited to the U.S. four years ago for drug trafficking, plans to face justice in Honduras as well. His family was present to greet him, and he expressed gratitude for his return. Despite being sentenced to 45 years in the U.S., he received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, who claimed Hernández did not receive a fair trial. He is expected to appear in court on August 3 regarding corruption charges linked to the Pandora II case.
WeatherCentral and Southern U.S. Endures Second Consecutive Day of Extreme Heat
The central and southern regions of the United States are experiencing a second consecutive day of extreme heat and high humidity, with no short-term relief in sight. Heat indices are expected to exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit from Memphis to Montana and Las Vegas, with some southwestern areas potentially reaching up to 120 degrees. This oppressive heat is due to a heat dome phenomenon that traps atmospheric heat, prolonging already high temperatures. Experts warn that vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, are at increased risk for severe reactions. Recommendations include seeking air conditioning, staying hydrated, and limiting sun exposure.
BusinessRio South Texas Region Stakeholders Promote Ports, Bridges, Rail and Airports to Mexican Industry
During a meeting on June 11, 2026, the Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) showcased the Rio South Texas region as a vital binational transportation corridor to representatives from the San Luis Potosí automotive industry. The region includes 19 international trade bridges, three seaports, and seven international airports, with a total annual trade operation valued at $15 billion. The Port of Brownsville alone has an economic impact exceeding $3 billion. COSTEP highlighted the potential for logistics and warehousing, emphasizing the region's strategic importance under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. SpaceX's Starbase also contributes an economic impact of $900 million.
WeatherWildfires in France and Spain Force Over 250,000 People to Evacuate
Wildfires in southwestern France have forced the evacuation of 55,000 people, bringing the total to 220,000 in the region as flames approach Bordeaux, known for its wine industry. Spain is also conducting evacuations due to fires on its eastern coast. Strong winds and dry conditions have complicated firefighting efforts. French Interior Minister Laurent Núñez described the situation as extremely unfavorable, with the fire becoming unpredictable and generating its own winds. In response, France has mobilized 1,400 firefighters and deployed military aircraft, while Spain has sent 2,600 personnel to combat two fires near Madrid. The fires have burned over 130,000 hectares in Spain this year, exceeding the annual average.
Public SafetySecond arrest made in Starr County cattle theft investigation
A second suspect, Augustine Becerra, has been arrested in a cattle theft case in Starr County. He allegedly stole cattle from a ranch and sold them at auction, following instructions from Arthur Flores, who faces two counts of cattle theft. The investigation began when the Estate of Ignacia Gutierrez reported missing livestock on February 1. Witnesses saw unauthorized individuals on the property, and game camera footage confirmed the trespass. Becerra admitted to hiring others to help steal cattle, which were sold for over $15,000. He has been charged with theft and criminal trespass, while Flores has been released on bond.
Public SafetyInfluencer is killed by her husband after accusing him of pedophilia on TikTok
Sara Gilson, a 43-year-old social media influencer, was shot and killed by her estranged husband, Jeremiah Duffey, in Owasso, Oklahoma. This incident occurred less than two weeks after Gilson accused Duffey of pedophilia in a TikTok video, where she had over 30,000 followers. She had previously obtained an emergency protective order against him after he was accused of inappropriate conduct with a minor. Police responded to a domestic violence call, finding both Gilson and Duffey dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Their son is now in protective custody. The case is being investigated as a possible murder-suicide.
NationalGermany says attack at Berlin Pride party was Islamic terrorism
In Berlin, a deadly attack during the Pride festival left one person dead and 29 injured. The suspect, Abdul Ballout, a Lebanese-German, was killed by police after a nearly 24-hour manhunt. Authorities believe he drove a van into a crowd and subsequently attacked others with a machete, classifying the incident as Islamic terrorism. Ballout had previously attempted to join ISIS and was sentenced for extremist activities. The attack occurred near the Brandenburg Gate during the festival's closing party, which followed a parade. A memorial was set up, with community members expressing solidarity against hate.
SportsHe is now immortal! Carlos Beltrán inducted into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY
Former Puerto Rican baseball player Carlos Beltrán wrote another historic chapter for Puerto Rican sports this Sunday as he was officially inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. "This is the hard part," Beltrán said as he requested to speak in Spanish to thank his parents for their education, support, and the lessons of perseverance and never giving up. Emotional and with a choked voice, he also addressed his siblings and Puerto Rico. "As one of our best artists says: ‘A hug to mom and dad because they really broke barriers,’" he said at the podium, referencing Bad Bunny's song "La Mudanza." Beltrán, who was selected as part of the Class of 2026 after receiving support from the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA), became the sixth Puerto Rican to be immortalized in the most prestigious baseball hall, following a 20-season career in Major League Baseball. The induction ceremony took place in Cooperstown, where Beltrán was honored alongside Andruw Jones and Jeff Kent, who are also part of the Class of 2026. Throughout his career, the ambidextrous outfielder was selected to nine All-Star Games, won three Gold Gloves, two Silver Sluggers, and was named the American League Rookie of the Year in 1999. He finished his career with 435 home runs, 312 stolen bases, and a World Series championship with the Houston Astros in 2017.
SportsMito Perez signs with the Texas Rangers Organization
Mito Perez, a talented baseball player from the Rio Grande Valley, has signed with the Texas Rangers as an undrafted free agent after not being selected in the MLB Draft. He received the news while playing video games, leading to an emotional celebration with his family, especially his proud mother. His father, Jaime Perez, who is also the head coach at Edinburg Vela, emphasized the collective effort that brought Mito to this moment, highlighting the significance of his achievement for the entire community. Mito expressed his disbelief at signing with the Rangers, a dream for many Texas players, and encouraged young athletes to stay dedicated and work hard.
HealthValley specialist works at same hospital that cared for her as a premature baby
Ruth Frias, a speech pathologist at Valley Regional Medical Center in Brownsville, is dedicated to caring for premature infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Her journey is particularly meaningful as she was born there 36 years ago and spent three weeks in the NICU with her twin sister. Inspired by the care she received, Frias aims to improve the lives of vulnerable babies. She notes significant advancements in NICU care, now involving a team of specialists, which allows more infants to receive treatment locally, alleviating concerns for parents who previously had to travel for care.
Public Safety2 people hospitalized after car crashes into Mission hair salon
A woman was arrested for driving while intoxicated and possession of a controlled substance after crashing her car into a hair salon in Mission. The accident happened on Friday around 11:34 a.m. in the 300 block of North Shary Road, when the driver of a black 2020 Ford Edge collided with EZ Cuts. Both the driver and a customer inside the salon were hospitalized. The police are continuing to investigate the incident.
SportsIn Video: Cameraman Goes Viral for Running Like an Athlete While Filming Race
Kazakh cameraman Ibrai Tulemissov gained viral fame this week after a video of him filming the Kazakhstan Youth Athletics Championship in Shymkent circulated on social media. In the footage, shared by coach Assiya Rabayeva, Tulemissov is seen running ahead of the athletes while capturing the race. Although the tournament took place in late June, the video was posted recently and quickly garnered thousands of likes on Instagram. Rabayeva edited the original video, adding a humorous cartoon segment about sports photographers. Tulemissov, who has been active in sports since childhood, combines his passions for athletics and camerawork in his role at the city's Sports Department.
CommunityPunch, the monkey who went viral for his stuffed toy, celebrates his first birthday
Punch, a Japanese macaque who gained fame for his plush toy, celebrated his first birthday at the Ichikawa Zoo near Tokyo. Abandoned by his mother at birth, he was raised by zoo staff and given an orangutan plush that became his comfort object. The zoo reported receiving over 2,500 congratulatory cards from around the world, with about 1,000 currently on display. Due to the high turnout despite inclement weather, the zoo plans to extend the exhibition of the cards in two phases, with the second phase starting on August 11. Punch has become a major attraction, boosting zoo attendance significantly.
Public SafetyValleyCentral Weekend Report: ICE crackdowns and floods across Texas
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On this week's edition of ValleyCentral Weekend Report, Anchor Alexia Serrata breaks down all the news of the week. Starting with the biggest stories of the week, in case you missed them. To kick things off, we check in with the Starr County rancher who found the first reported case of the New World Screwworm in the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsSpecial election set for South Padre Island Council seat
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The City of South Padre Island announced that a Special Election has been scheduled to fill the seat for Council Member Place 1. The seat opened up following the death of City Council Member Ken Medders, Jr. As previously reported on ValleyCentral, Medders was first elected to the city council in November 2017
NationalThe White House Wants Veteran Soldiers to Replace Immigrant Truck Drivers
The Trump administration is encouraging military veterans to consider truck driving as a career to fill the gap left by immigrant drivers who lost their licenses this year. A new campaign promotes programs allowing veterans who have operated large military vehicles to bypass the skills test for a commercial driver's license. The GI Bill will cover 100% of the training costs, and some veterans may also receive housing assistance. This initiative is part of a broader effort to help veterans find civilian jobs. Currently, truck drivers earn an average of $70,000 annually due to labor shortages in the industry.
Public SafetyCar Plows Into Crowd, Injuring Several at LGBTQ+ March in Berlin
A van drove into a crowd during Berlin's LGBTQ+ event on Saturday, resulting in one death and at least 15 injuries, prompting police to cancel the celebrations and a concert shortly after they began. Some victims suffered life-threatening injuries, and emergency responders were on-site to assist. The incident occurred in Tiergarten park, where the van struck several people before crashing into a tree. Authorities are actively searching for suspects. The event, known as Christopher Street Day, had drawn hundreds of thousands of attendees celebrating peacefully before the tragic event unfolded, leading to the cancellation of festivities around 10:15 PM.
Public Safety13th Court of Appeals weighs in on Weslaco cheerleader wrongful death lawsuit
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The 13th Court of Appeals on Friday weighed in on the wrongful death lawsuit involving a Weslaco cheerleader. The 13th Court of Appeals sent a letter directing attorneys representing the family of Larissa Rodriguez to respond to Glazer's Beer and Beverage's mandamus and emergency motion for stay in the higher court.
WeatherHeat Dome Expands Across Central U.S. and Puts Millions at Risk
A heat dome is affecting much of the central United States, with temperatures soaring and around 80 million people under heat advisories. Meteorologists predict that the extreme heat will persist into the following week, with nighttime temperatures not dropping enough for relief. Areas from Dallas to North Dakota are expected to experience temperatures 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit above normal. In Nebraska, temperatures could reach 108 degrees Fahrenheit, impacting local businesses. Authorities warn that children, the elderly, and those with health conditions are at high risk for heat-related illnesses. Some relief may come next weekend, but it could be temporary.
NationalTeenager Accused of Killing Four at Georgia School Pleads Guilty
In Winder, Georgia, 16-year-old Colt Gray pleaded guilty to 55 charges, including murder, related to a school shooting at Apalachee High School that occurred on September 4, 2024. The incident resulted in the deaths of two students and two teachers, with several others injured. Gray, who was 14 at the time, was charged as an adult. His father, Colin Gray, was previously convicted of second-degree murder for providing the assault rifle used in the shooting. The court will determine Gray's sentencing, with victims' families urging for life without parole. The hearing resumes Monday, with testimonies expected from mental health professionals.