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Public SafetyTeen Suspect Arrested in Louisiana Mall Shooting
Louisiana authorities announced Friday that a 17-year-old has been charged with murder and another suspect is being sought after a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge left a teenage girl dead and five others injured. Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse stated that the Thursday shooting was not random, citing 'social media disputes and possibly gang-related issues' as motivations. The incident involved two groups who exchanged words before opening fire, injuring innocent bystanders. Markel Lee, 17, surrendered to authorities and faces charges of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder, and illegal use of a weapon. Louisiana law treats 17-year-olds as adults in the criminal justice system. Governor Jeff Landry vowed to combat gang violence and announced a targeted operation to arrest those linked to the shooting. The victim, identified as 17-year-old Martha Odom from Lafayette, was celebrating 'senior skip day' with friends. Two other students from her school, Ascension Episcopal School, were among the injured. The school described Odom as 'a joyful presence whose kindness and contagious enthusiasm brought light to everyone she knew.' The shooting marks the second high-profile case of gun violence in Louisiana this week, following a separate incident in Shreveport where a father killed eight children, seven of whom were his own, and injured two women in a family attack.
CommunityTree City USA 2025 Reflects McAllen’s Commitment to Sustainability and Quality of Life
The Arbor Day Foundation named the City of McAllen a 2025 Tree City USA in honor of its commitment to plant, grow, and maintain trees to benefit its community.
Public SafetyAlleged Shooter Indicted on Federal Counts After Posting Videos Online
Texas Border Business U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas HOUSTON – A 36-year-old Michigan man known as Allstar JR, who allegedly opened fire at a Houston restaurant, is now in custody for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Jeremy Christopher Ford made his initial appearance in Detroit, Michigan. He remains in custody pending
PoliticsYour District, Your Voice: District 2 Town Hall, April 28th
Texas Border Business McALLEN, Texas – City Commissioner Dist. 2 Joaquin “J.J.” Zamora and The City of McAllen invite residents to attend a public town hall meeting to discuss key community topics, including water supply, infrastructure, transportation, illegal dumping, voter awareness, animal welfare, parks and recreation, and state-level policy concerns. This meeting provides residents the opportunity
PoliticsU.S. to Allow Firing Squads to Expedite Federal Executions
The U.S. Department of Justice will adopt firing squads as a permitted method of execution as part of efforts by former President Donald Trump's administration to intensify and expedite federal death penalty cases, officials announced Friday. The Justice Department is also reinstating the use of single-drug lethal injections with pentobarbital, which were used to carry out 13 executions during Trump's first term—more than under any modern president. President Joe Biden's administration had removed pentobarbital from federal execution protocols over concerns about unnecessary pain and suffering. The measures are part of a broader push to increase and accelerate federal executions following a moratorium during Biden's presidency. Only three inmates remain on federal death row after Biden commuted 37 sentences to life imprisonment, though Trump's administration has authorized seeking death sentences for 44 defendants so far. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, "The previous administration failed in its duty to protect the American people by refusing to seek and carry out the maximum punishment against the most dangerous criminals, including terrorists, child murderers, and cop killers. Under President Trump's leadership, the Department of Justice is once again enforcing the law and standing up for victims." Firing squads had not previously been included in federal execution protocols, according to the nonprofit Death Penalty Information Center. Currently, five states—Idaho, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Utah—permit executions by firing squad. The pentobarbital protocol was introduced by former Attorney General Bill Barr during Trump's first term to replace a three-drug cocktail used in the 2000s, the last time federal executions were carried out before Trump's presidency. In the final days of Biden's administration, then-Attorney General Merrick Garland rescinded the pentobarbital lethal injection policy after a government review of scientific and medical research found "considerable uncertainty" about whether its use causes unnecessary pain and suffering. In 2020, under Barr's direction, the Justice Department published a rule in the Federal Register allowing federal executions by lethal injection or "any other form prescribed by the law of the state where the sentence was imposed." Several states permit alternative execution methods, including electrocution, nitrogen gas inhalation, and firing squads. A report released Friday by Trump's administration criticized Biden's handling of the issue, claiming the previous administration "got the standard and the science wrong." The report argued that Biden's findings failed to address "overwhelming evidence" that pentobarbital causes rapid unconsciousness, preventing the experience of pain. Currently on federal death row are Dylann Roof, who committed the racially motivated murders of nine Black worshippers at Charleston's Mother Emanuel AME Church in 2015; Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, the perpetrator of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing; and Robert Bowers, who killed 11 congregants at Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue in 2018, marking the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.
McAllen Public Library Prepares to Celebrate Family, Culture and Literacy, April 26th
McAllen Public Library (MPL) invites families to its annual El Día de los Niños / El Día de los Libros celebration on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Main Library, 4001 N. 23rd St. The post McAllen Public Library Prepares to Celebrate Family, Culture and Literacy, April 26th appeared first on Texas Border Business.
Public SafetyDoctor Accused of Removing Wrong Organ Leading to Patient's Death Was Driving Lyft When Arrested
A Florida surgeon accused of causing a patient’s death by removing the liver instead of the spleen during surgery was arrested while driving for Lyft in a dramatic confrontation, as shown in body camera footage obtained by NBC News. The video reveals Walton County Sheriff’s deputies approaching Dr. Thomas Shaknovsky’s Mitsubishi SUV with guns drawn on April 13. Shaknovsky, 44, appeared confused as officers handcuffed him at a busy intersection in Miramar Beach, Florida, while passengers sat in the back seat. The arrest stemmed from a second-degree manslaughter charge related to the death of 70-year-old William Bryan during a laparoscopic surgery on August 21, 2024. Shaknovsky’s medical license was suspended shortly after the incident, and he faces additional lawsuits for alleged medical negligence. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison. Lyft has not commented on the matter.
PoliticsDeaths of U.S. Agents in Anti-Drug Operation Stir Debate Over U.S. Involvement in Mexico
MEXICO CITY – The deaths of two U.S. agents and two Mexican nationals during an anti-drug operation in the state of Chihuahua have reignited debate over the presence of U.S. agents operating in Mexican territory. President Claudia Sheinbaum defended national sovereignty and strict adherence to legal frameworks on Friday. Diplomatic tensions have escalated in recent days, with Sheinbaum demanding an explanation from Washington regarding the participation of U.S. agents in the operation in Chihuahua, a state bordering the U.S. Security analyst David Saucedo noted that the incident highlights a growing trend of unilateral actions by U.S. agencies without prior notification to Mexico’s federal government, driven by concerns over potential information leaks to criminal organizations. Saucedo explained that agencies like the CIA, FBI, and DEA have long conducted intelligence, investigative, and tactical support operations in Mexico, often under discreet coordination with Mexican authorities. However, in recent years, Washington has reduced intelligence sharing with Mexico’s federal government, citing risks of information falling into the hands of organized crime. Information obtained from extradited cartel leaders, particularly those linked to the Sinaloa Cartel, has enabled U.S. agencies to identify clandestine labs, trafficking routes, and institutional protection networks without fully sharing data with Mexico. Sheinbaum reiterated her stance on Friday, emphasizing that foreign agents must operate within Mexico’s constitutional and legal frameworks. She stated, 'Sovereignty is non-negotiable. Cooperation and coordination must always adhere to our laws.' She also stressed that any collaboration with foreign agencies must be authorized by the Foreign Affairs Ministry and reported to the federal Security Cabinet. Saucedo noted that Sheinbaum’s position has political implications, bolstering her nationalist rhetoric and public support. However, he predicted that the institutional demands would not fundamentally alter the practical cooperation between the two nations. He argued that bilateral security relations are driven more by pragmatism than formal legal agreements, and covert U.S. operations in Mexico are likely to continue despite the public debate over sovereignty and legality. While he dismissed the likelihood of a major diplomatic crisis, Saucedo acknowledged that the incident adds to existing tensions between the two governments on issues like migration, security, and trade.
EducationSTC Convenes Regional Leaders for “Rebuilding Futures” Event on April 28th in McAllen
Texas Border Business McALLEN, Texas – On Tuesday, April 28, South Texas College, in collaboration with public sector leaders, higher education and community partners, will host “Rebuilding Futures: Advancing Second Chances through Policy, Partnership and Purpose.” The event, which includes remarks by Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, focuses on advancing second chances for those impacted
EducationSTC Launches Targeted Initiative to Bolster Support for Student Parents
Texas Border Business By Amanda Sotelo Like many South Texas College students, Eileen Diaz is a parenting student, raising two children, 4 and 14, while completing her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership, and thanks to STC parenting student initiatives and resources, she’s found success. “Times are tough. Inflation is making it harder for students like
CommunityMonarch Fest Celebrates Nature, Community, and Conservation, April 25th
Monarch Fest: A Party for the Planet is a vibrant, family-friendly celebration and part of the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge, led by the National Wildlife Federation to support pollinators and promote environmental awareness.
PoliticsTexas Approves SB4 Allowing Arrests for Illegal Entry
HOUSTON – Texas achieved a significant victory on Friday with the implementation of SB4, one of the nation's strictest immigration laws. After a lengthy legal battle, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the law can take effect. SB4 classifies illegal entry and reentry into the United States as state-level crimes and grants police the authority to arrest individuals suspected of violating federal immigration laws. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton shared the news on the social media platform X, stating, 'My office has secured another major victory for Texas by defending SB4 before the Fifth Circuit.' Paxton emphasized that the decision strengthens public safety and law enforcement in the state. The ruling marks a new chapter in the legal debate over state authority in immigration matters and could set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country.
Sharyland Water Supply Corporation end boil water notice
ALTON, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Sharyland Water Supply Corporation ended its boil water notice on Friday. The public water system issued the notice on Wednesday after a main line was damaged during repairs, posing a risk of contamination in the water. On Thursday, Sharyland WSC said it was waiting on test results to confirm if [...]
'Wonderful update': 2-year-old boy recovering after near-drowning at swimming pool, police say
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Edinburg police provided an update on a near-drowning incident that happened at a swimming pool last month. On March 24, officers responded to a call just after 12 p.m. and found a 2-year-old child unresponsive after being pulled out of a swimming pool. He was immediately taken to a local hospital [...]
PoliticsTexas AG Blocks Federal Gun Sale Rule, Citing Executive Overreach
Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a landmark legal victory for gun owners, preserving an injunction that prevented enforcement of a Biden Administration Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) rule that unlawfully sought to violate Americans’ constitutional right to privately buy and sell firearms.
PoliticsOfficer Positioned Near Showers: Woman Reports Conditions at Migrant Detention Center
Hilda Torres, who has been detained for nearly six months, has raised concerns about hygiene, health issues, and privacy at a migrant detention center. One of her main complaints involves the lack of privacy during showers, where she claims an officer—often male—is stationed nearby, making the experience uncomfortable. Torres has also reported problems with water temperature and stomach issues affecting detainees. Through letters to her family, she has detailed her experiences, including an incident where a guard allegedly stared at her while she showered. Management and Training Corporation, the operator of the facility, responded to TELEMUNDO 40, stating that privacy standards are met with 5-foot shower walls and that officers are not stationed near bathrooms or showers during use. They also claimed the average shower temperature is 102°F and denied hygiene issues, asserting regular cleaning and pest control measures. Activists and Torres' family have called for government intervention, with groups like Brown Berets RGV urging inspections of detention centers. Recently, Congressmen Vicente González and Joaquín Castro visited detention centers in South Texas, documenting conditions and pledging action.
Public SafetyUPDATE: Rodriguez Surrenders to McAllen Police
McAllen Police Officers are asking the public’s assistance in locating Carlos Agusta Rodriguez.
PoliticsAbbott Taps New Members for EMS, Higher-Ed Disability Council, and More
This week, Governor Greg Abbott selected multiple qualified candidates to serve on behalf of Texans. Image for illustration purposes
Public SafetyTexas Identifies Deficiencies at Camp Mystic That Could Delay Summer Opening
The Texas Department of Health and Human Services has sent a letter to Camp Mystic outlining several areas that require attention before the camp can open for the summer season in 2026. According to the document, while the camp meets some criteria, multiple areas fall short of full compliance. One major concern is the absence of official FEMA flood zone maps, which are necessary to determine whether the camp’s facilities and cabins are located within a floodplain. The maps must also clearly define the camp’s property boundaries and the cabins’ proximity to risk-prone areas. Other deficiencies include inadequate communication with parents regarding flood zones, the lack of an evacuation plan for flash flood alerts, and the absence of protocols for handling severe injuries or fatalities. Authorities clarified that the review was based solely on submitted documentation and does not assess the camp’s actual implementation or operational capacity. Camp Mystic has 45 days to address the issues and resubmit its plans to the state health department. The camp’s reopening plans have sparked outrage among families of the victims of the historic July 4th floods, which claimed the lives of 25 campers, two teenage counselors, and co-owner Dick Eastland. In response, Camp Mystic stated it is carefully reviewing the notification from the Texas Department of Health Services and is working collaboratively with the department. “Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our campers, and we look forward to continuing Camp Mystic’s nearly century-long mission and ministry of providing girls with a Christian camp experience that fosters physical, mental, and spiritual growth,” the camp said.
PoliticsAlamo Considers Suspending City Manager in Special Meeting
The City of Alamo has scheduled a special meeting of the Board of Commissioners for Friday, April 24, at 12:00 p.m., at City Hall located at 420 N. Tower Road. According to the official agenda, one of the main items to be discussed is the possible suspension of City Manager Robert L. Salinas. The meeting will include a public comment period, allowing residents to participate by registering in advance to address agenda topics. Officials stated that the Commission may enter into executive session during the meeting, as permitted by state law, to discuss related legal matters and deliberate on the issues presented. No additional details have been released regarding the reasons behind the consideration of the suspension.