Day 2 highlights from Pony League World Series in McAllen

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'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

Bridges and a water plant impacted: US completes seventh night of attacks against Iran

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that American forces completed their seventh consecutive night of attacks against Iran, concluding operations at 9:30 PM Eastern Time. The airstrikes targeted Iranian military logistics, surveillance facilities, and maritime capabilities, utilizing fighter jets, drones, and naval vessels. CENTCOM holds Iran responsible for escalating tensions and maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Iranian officials reported significant casualties from the attacks, including damage to bridges and electrical infrastructure in Hormozgan province. Additionally, a tower at Chabahar port was destroyed, which the U.S. claims was used for military surveillance. Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes on U.S. targets in the region.

Man accused of sending intimate photos through dead persons's social media accounts: Police

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man was taken into custody for allegedly sending intimate photos through a deceased person's social media accounts, according to the Donna Police Department. On June 15, Jose Lara Jr. was charged with harassment, two counts of online impersonation, computer security breach and unlawful disclosure of intimate visual material. According to a

CBP officers arrest man wanted in Combes shooting investigation

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers arrested a man with multiple warrants out of Combes. German Tanguma was arrested on Thursday while attempting to enter the U.S. at the Hidalgo International Port of Entry. The Combes Police Department said Tanguma was wanted for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred

Brownsville Police Arrest Suspect in Multiple Downtown Robberies

Brownsville police arrested a man linked to multiple thefts in the downtown area early on July 17, 2026. Officers from the specialized Task Force against Theft apprehended 35-year-old Oscar Leonardo Urbina around 12:14 a.m. after a thorough investigation. Urbina faces seven felony charges for commercial burglary and one charge for residential burglary, which is classified as a second-degree felony. Authorities noted that his arrest is a significant step in addressing property crimes in Brownsville's commercial and historic district, where such incidents have been on the rise. He is now in custody awaiting legal proceedings and bail assignment.

Federal case dropped against former Hidalgo County District Clerk, state charges remain

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Federal charges against former Hidalgo County District Clerk Omar Guerrero have been dropped by the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Texas. According to a criminal complaint, the order of dismissal was submitted on Thursday due to "reasons in the interest of justice." On Friday, the dismissal order was granted, according