Two U.S. Soldiers Confirmed Dead in Jordan; One Missing

Two U.S. soldiers were killed in combat on July 17 while defending Jordan against an Iranian missile and drone attack, with another soldier reported missing, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). The attack's specific location in Jordan has not been disclosed, and further details about the incident remain limited. Additionally, four other U.S. soldiers were evacuated to hospitals in Jordan but have since been released. Those with minor injuries have returned to their duties. CENTCOM stated that the identities of the deceased soldiers will not be released until their families have been notified, which will take 24 hours.

How Did Mauro Menéndez, Son of Aylin Mujica, Die? The Young DJ Passed Away in Barbados

Aylín Mujica and her ex-husband Osamu Menéndez are mourning the unexpected death of their son, Mauro Menéndez, a 33-year-old DJ known as Maahez. He passed away during a trip to Barbados while Mujica was filming Top Chef VIP in Colombia. Although the official cause of death has not been confirmed, reports suggest he suffered complications from pneumonia. Jessica Carrillo from Telemundo's Al Rojo Vivo indicated that Mauro had been ill but chose to travel. After experiencing severe breathing difficulties, he was hospitalized but unfortunately did not survive. Mujica has not yet commented, while Menéndez expressed his devastation on Facebook.

Cowboys pro bowler Kavontae Turpin connects with RGV youth at camp in McAllen

Dallas Cowboys player Kavontae Turpin visited McAllen on Friday to train local youth football players. Partnering with RGV Prime Sports and Events, he engaged in drills with the young athletes, emphasizing the importance of connection and mentorship. Former UTRGV player Eddie Lee Marburger also participated, highlighting the significance of giving back to the community. RGV Prime Sports founder Karla Puente noted how impactful it is for kids to meet athletes in person, inspiring them to pursue their dreams in football. Turpin expressed joy in seeing the kids' excitement and shared his insights to help them improve their game.

IDEA Public Schools teacher loses job due to delay in DACA renewal

A teacher from the Rio Grande Valley lost her job at IDEA Public Schools after her DACA status expired before her renewal was processed. The termination letter was issued on June 30, 2026, citing lapsed work authorization. The teacher, who prefers to remain anonymous, submitted her renewal application in January, but after seven months, she is still waiting. IDEA Public Schools stated they adhere to federal law regarding employment authorization and acknowledged the impact of immigration delays. The teacher, originally from Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas, expressed concern about her immigration status and the fear of leaving her home.

Sullivan City cracks down on cemetery violations affecting over 100 burial plots

Sullivan City is addressing cemetery violations as over 100 burial plots have unauthorized alterations. City Manager Richard Ozuna reported that some families have added items like benches that encroach on adjacent plots. The city has issued 36 warning letters, with 21 families complying. Each plot is restricted to 3.5 feet by 9 feet, including one headstone, and seven concrete plots have also been identified as violations. Families have one week to rectify the issues before facing fines of up to $500. A banner has been placed at the cemetery to remind residents of the regulations. Resident Francisco Garza expressed frustration over encroachments affecting visits to his mother-in-law's grave.

Former teacher remembers Nahomi Rodriguez, whose 2016 death remains unsolved

Former teacher Lali Betancourt recalls Nahomi Rodriguez, who graduated in 2016 and was last seen at a Harlingen McDonald's before her remains were discovered in 2017. The investigation into her death remains unresolved, with Harlingen Police Department's Jacob Perez now leading the case. New technology is being utilized to retest evidence, and District Attorney Luis Saenz expressed optimism about recent developments. Miguel Angel Flores is the only person of interest, currently imprisoned for unrelated charges. A $25,000 reward is offered for information leading to an arrest, as Betancourt hopes Nahomi is remembered for her dreams, not just her tragic end.

Fighting to wake up: Mission family recalls race to bring intubated sister back across the border

Yadira Hernandez, a 35-year-old instructional aide from Mission CISD, is in critical condition at South Texas Health System in McAllen after suffering a medical emergency while visiting family in Chiapas, Mexico. Diagnosed with both COVID-19 and the flu, she was placed in a medically induced coma following seizures. Her family spent 24 hours coordinating her transport back to the U.S., incurring $22,000 in costs for an ambulance and helicopter. Mission CISD expressed support for Hernandez, emphasizing her value to the school community. Her brother, Roman, remains hopeful for her recovery and is thankful for the assistance received during this crisis.

McAllen man survives after 5-foot metal rod pierces his windshield on the expressway

A McAllen resident, John Montemayor, narrowly escaped injury when a 5-foot metal rod pierced his windshield while driving on the expressway near La Feria. Montemayor was traveling at 60 mph when the rod, which had already been struck by two other vehicles, came dangerously close to his face. He managed to pull over safely with only minor cuts from the shattered glass. Montemayor emphasized the importance of securing items while driving, as unsecured loads can lead to serious accidents. The Texas Department of Transportation warns that failing to secure loads can result in fines, especially if injuries occur. Montemayor plans to turn the rod into a cross as a reminder of his close call.

Day 2 highlights from Pony League World Series in McAllen

Houston man killed in Starr County crash

A 67-year-old man from Houston lost his life in a two-vehicle accident in Starr County on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. on FM 755, south of FM 1017, near La Gloria. A silver Dodge Ram towing a trailer was traveling north when a gray Dodge 1500 heading south crossed into the northbound lane. The driver of the Dodge Ram attempted to avoid a collision, but the Dodge 1500 struck the trailer. The passenger in the Dodge 1500, Noelio Garza Peña, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Dodge 1500 sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized, while the Dodge Ram driver did not require medical attention. The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating the incident.

Mission doctor convicted of misdiagnosing thousands of patients seeking to have sentence vacated

Jorge Zamora-Quezada, a rheumatologist from Mission, TX, convicted of misdiagnosing thousands of patients in a $240 million healthcare fraud scheme, is seeking to vacate his sentence. After serving one year of a ten-year sentence, he filed a motion on July 1, arguing that new medical evidence shows the government’s claims were incorrect. He contends that modern diagnostic criteria support his patients' diagnoses of rheumatism and related autoimmune diseases. Additionally, the Texas Medical Board cleared him of wrongdoing. Zamora-Quezada is requesting a new trial if his conviction is not vacated. Prosecutors have 45 days to respond to his motion.

Consumer Reports: Home gym for cheap

Creating a home gym can be a cost-effective way to stay fit without a gym membership. Consumer Reports highlights essential equipment for home workouts, emphasizing adjustable dumbbells as a smart investment. These allow users to easily change weights, saving both money and space. Top-rated options include the NordicTrack 55-pound and Core Home Fitness 50-pound dumbbells, both priced under $400. Resistance bands are another affordable choice, effective for strength training and suitable for various fitness levels, with Whatafit bands recommended at about $28 for five. Additionally, workout headphones like Apple AirPods Pro and Beats Fit Pro are suggested for an enhanced experience, while cautioning against certain HomeProGym bands that may be unsafe.

City of Alamo offering grants up to $15, 000 for new, local businesses

The City of Alamo is providing financial assistance to support the launch of new local businesses. There are two funding options: a start-up grant and a revolving loan fund, both available exclusively to Alamo residents. This season, the Alamo Economic Development Corporation will award five grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 for businesses that have a commercial property. To receive reimbursement, qualifying businesses must submit an invoice. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized the importance of generating sales tax and noted that applications will be reviewed by the EDC's board of directors.

Former Hidalgo County district clerk now in county jail after federal charge dropped

Omar Guerrero, the former Hidalgo County District Clerk, was transferred to county jail after a federal escape charge against him was dropped. This decision was made by a federal judge on July 17, 2026, following a motion from prosecutors citing 'the interest of justice.' Guerrero is currently facing multiple charges, including two counts of sexual assault of a child and three counts of drug possession, with no bond listed. He was previously arrested in June after 13 years on the run, having fled to Mexico shortly after being charged with drug possession and sexual assault in 2013.

Cameron County investigators using new technology on Nahomi Rodriguez case

On July 17, 2026, it will be ten years since Nahomi Rodriguez disappeared after leaving her job at a Harlingen McDonald's. Although no one has been charged, investigators from the Harlingen Police Department and Cameron County Sheriff's Office are revisiting the case using new technology. Surveillance footage from the day she vanished shows her entering a car, marking the last sighting of Rodriguez. The only person of interest, Miguel Angel Flores, is currently incarcerated until 2033. A $25,000 reward is still offered for information leading to an arrest, as authorities continue to seek answers for Rodriguez's family.

Harlingen to repair 71 streets as part of 2027 road improvement program

Harlingen city commissioners have approved a plan to repair 71 streets as part of the 2027 road improvement program. The initiative will cover all five city districts, with work expected to start in October after the completion of this year's projects. City Engineer Roberto Hernandez noted that the city will utilize its own equipment and staff to minimize costs, maintaining a budget of approximately $1.5 million. The funding comes from a fee on utility bills, and streets are selected based on traffic counts and road conditions, focusing on those with significant issues like potholes. The repairs are anticipated to take 8 to 12 months.

SpaceX sets new date for 13th test flight after engines failed to ignite

SpaceX has rescheduled the 13th test flight of its Starship rocket for Monday, July 20, with a launch window opening at 5:45 p.m. This follows a failed attempt on July 16, when the launch was aborted due to two engines not igniting. To ensure a successful flight, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced that the malfunctioning engines will be replaced. The upcoming test flight will see Starship launched from Texas on a mission that will take it halfway around the world.

Mendez Avenue repaving project set to begin in Roma

The city of Roma is set to begin repaving Mendez Avenue, a crucial route for heavy trucks at the port of entry. The existing asphalt is deteriorating due to the increased traffic, which Congressman Henry Cuellar noted has surged by 600%. The city is investing $150,000 and utilizing a nearly $500,000 grant for the project. Cuellar emphasized that the rise in truck traffic correlates with job creation and economic growth. The repaving work is expected to commence within three months and will take approximately six to eight months to finish.

'It came to me as a spear': McAllen man survives bed frame crashing through windshield

PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — What was supposed to be a relaxing weekend trip to South Padre Island turned into a terrifying near-death experience for a McAllen police officer after a steel bed frame flew through his windshield while traveling on the expressway. John Montemayor said he was driving about 65 mph behind a van when,

Saharan dust and dry conditions continue this weekend

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The weekend is finally here, and good news: the forecast shows dry skies with no rain in sight. Also, the weather won’t be getting in the way of any plans. However, if you were hoping the Saharan dust had wrapped up its visit, not quite yet. While a break is on the horizon, we’ll have to wait a bit