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PoliticsGroundbreaking Kicks Off Landmark $1.5M Adams Garden Drainage Project, July 16th
Cameron County will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the Adams Garden Drainage Project on July 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. on Ballenger Road, west of US-77. This $1.5 million initiative, in collaboration with Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 and the Texas General Land Office, aims to enhance stormwater drainage and mitigate flood risks in the Adams Garden area. The project includes building a new pump station and improving drainage infrastructure. Expected to be completed by January 2027, it represents a significant investment in local flood protection, benefiting residents who have faced flooding during heavy rains.
PoliticsJury finds Veronica O’Caña guilty in Mission CISD bribery case
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After a three-day trial, a jury deliberated for less than three hours Wednesday before finding Veronica O’Caña guilty on bribery, money laundering and witness tampering charges. Veronica Inez O’Caña, 50, of Mission accepted bribes on behalf of her sister, former Mission school board President Patricia “Patty” O’Caña-Olivarez. “The deal is quite
Public SafetyBody of man found in Donna, investigation underway
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Police are investigating after the body of a man was found in Donna on Wednesday. The body of a 34-year-old man was found off the 2400 block of Bonita St., according to Donna police Chief Gilbert Guerrero. Donna police say they received a call from the man's parents requesting a welfare
EducationTexas A&M McAllen Taps Former Austin Mayor Will Wynn to Lead Higher Education Center
Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen has appointed Will Wynn, a Texas A&M alumnus and former Austin mayor, as its new executive director, starting July 13, 2026. He takes over from Rick Margo, who has moved to Texas A&M Health's Rio Grande Valley Health Education and Outreach. Wynn, a McAllen resident, brings extensive experience in public leadership and community development. He aims to enhance campus operations and partnerships while fostering a student-centered environment. Wynn expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the university's mission and support local students and industries.
CommunityBrownsville Opens Master Plan Draft to Public Comment
The City of Brownsville is inviting public feedback on its first-ever Downtown Renaissance Master Plan, which aims to guide development over the next 5 to 10 years. Residents can access draft documents and submit comments until July 23, 2026, via the project website. The plan focuses on enhancing land use, infrastructure, and public spaces, with specific proposals for pedestrian-friendly areas, improved mobility, and mixed-use developments. Key projects include the Adams St. Paseo and Plaza Mayor. City officials emphasize community involvement to shape a vibrant downtown that reflects local history and culture.
PoliticsFormer Mission school board president found guilty
MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After a three-day trial, a jury deliberated for less than 3 hours Wednesday before finding Veronica O’Cana guilty on bribery, money laundering and witness tampering charges. Veronica O’Cana, 50, of Mission accepted bribes on behalf of her sister former Mission school board president Patricia “Patty” O’Cana-Olivarez in February and March 2018.
PoliticsSister of former Mission school board president found guilty
Correction: This article has been updated to reflect that Veronica O’Cana, the sister of former Mission school board president Patricia “Patty” O’Cana-Olivarez, has been found guilty of the charges against her. MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After a three-day trial, a jury deliberated for less than 3 hours Wednesday before finding Veronica O’Cana guilty on bribery,
CommunityThe Inspiring Journey of a Turkish STC Alum Turned Texas Cop
Cagri Burak Bicak, a 27-year-old graduate of South Texas College, arrived in the Rio Grande Valley in 2024 with limited English skills and a desire to create a new life. Within 18 months, he graduated from STC's Police Academy and became a licensed peace officer in Texas. Bicak faced numerous challenges, including adapting to a new culture and balancing work with his studies. He credits his success to the support of classmates and instructors, as well as his determination. Now, he aims to serve in local police departments while considering further education in law enforcement.
NationalSheinbaum Calls DEA Director's Statement 'Very Unfortunate'
President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized on Wednesday the statement made by Terry Cole, the director of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), claiming there is a 'deadly connection' between drug cartels and Mexican authorities. She described the comment as 'very unfortunate' and politically motivated. 'I find this statement very unfortunate for several reasons. First, it seems more like a political statement than one based on evidence. What he is saying has no basis. Second, I believe the DEA has a lot of work to do in the United States,' she stated during her daily press conference. Sheinbaum's remarks were in response to Cole's assertion that combating cartels and those facilitating their operations is the DEA's top priority, while also claiming that these criminal networks have ties to Mexican officials.
CommunityFan Distribution for Residents of Cameron County
The Salvation Army will distribute 600 fans in Cameron County from July 16 to July 22 in the cities of Brownsville, San Benito, Rio Hondo, and Harlingen. Distribution will be on a first-come, first-served basis until supplies last. •Brownsville: Temple Bethel Church at 2965 Tampico St. on July 16 starting at 10:00 AM. •San Benito: San Benito Community Building at 210 Heywood on July 20 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. •Rio Hondo: 121 N. Arroyo Blvd. on July 21 starting at 10:00 AM. •Harlingen: 201 E. Monroe St. on July 22 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
PoliticsNew Housing Law Features Five De La Cruz Measures Supporting Veterans and Boosting Supply
Last week, five bills introduced by U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz became law as part of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. These provisions aim to assist Texas families in achieving homeownership, enhance housing support for veterans, and increase the overall housing supply. De La Cruz emphasized the importance of these measures in restoring the American dream through bipartisan efforts. Key components include updates to multifamily loan limits, ensuring veterans are informed about their loan benefits, and improving interagency collaboration to maximize housing programs. The new law is seen as a significant step towards affordable housing in Texas.
NationalTrump to Host Bukele Amid Uncertainty Over TPS for Salvadorans
Washington DC (EFE).- U.S. President Donald Trump will meet with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele this Thursday in the Oval Office, just days after the Central American leader paved the way to seek a third consecutive term. The White House confirmed the meeting will take place at 11:00 AM Washington time. This new encounter between Trump and Bukele comes against a backdrop of increasing bilateral cooperation on immigration and the fight against organized crime, which are top priorities for both leaders. The meeting occurs just days before the work permits for thousands of Salvadorans under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are set to expire. Meanwhile, at least 80 lawmakers and the National TPS Alliance have requested an extension of the program, which is set to end for Salvadorans on September 9. Additionally, the meeting comes just three days after Bukele announced his candidacy for a future third consecutive term, following a controversial constitutional reform approved last year by the Legislative Assembly, controlled by his party, Nuevas Ideas. The reform eliminated the limit of two consecutive terms and allowed for indefinite presidential re-election, extended the presidential term from five to six years, and eliminated the runoff election, which critics believe will enable Bukele to perpetuate himself in power and concentrate more authority. Bukele is one of the most popular leaders in Latin America, driven by his hardline policies against gangs, which have been criticized by human rights organizations for the imprisonment of individuals without prior records. El Salvador is among the key regional allies of Trump's government, which has strengthened its ties with right-wing governments in Latin America since his return to the White House in 2025, even publicly supporting candidacies in Honduras and Colombia. Stay tuned to Telemundo for updates on this developing story.
Public SafetyCBP Intercepts Live Parrots at Texas Border
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Gateway to the Americas Bridge in Laredo recently intercepted two live parrots hidden in a container during a wildlife smuggling attempt. The incident occurred on July 8 when a 26-year-old U.S. citizen attempted to enter the country on foot. Following a secondary inspection, the parrots were discovered in her belongings. CBP Agriculture Specialists identified the birds and contacted the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. A criminal investigation was initiated, and the woman was arrested. The parrots were handed over to USDA-VS for care.
PoliticsTexas agencies must cut spending by 3 % under new order from Abbott, Patrick and Burrows
Texas officials, including Governor Greg Abbott, have mandated a 3% budget cut for state agencies, appellate courts, and universities for the next two years. This directive aims to maintain fiscal conservatism and create funds for priorities like property tax reductions. However, public education funding and the new private school voucher program are exempt from these cuts. The state’s current budget, approved in 2025, totals $338 billion, with a significant portion allocated for property tax relief. Abbott, who is campaigning for a fourth term, is also facing proposals from Democratic nominee Gina Hinojosa to utilize the rainy day fund for direct payments to households.
SportsWe have to rebuild: Rio Grande City High School wrestling team increasing fundraising efforts following theft
The Rio Grande City High School wrestling team is increasing fundraising efforts after former booster club president Jose Lino Ruiz allegedly stole over $5,000. Ruiz has been charged with theft and is currently out on bond. The team, facing potential cuts to tournament participation, is now holding a 'Fill the Singlet' fundraiser to raise $10,000 for travel and other expenses. Senior wrestler Dayana Gonzalez emphasized the need for support, stating that the team has raised about 20% of its goal. The school district reassured that student-athletes will still have the necessary resources for competitions despite the theft.
NationalICE should keep making traffic stops despite recent shootings, Trump says
President Donald Trump has expressed his support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to continue conducting traffic stops, despite recent fatal shootings involving federal agents. Following a directive to suspend most vehicle stops, Trump argued that halting these stops would empower criminals. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reiterated that individuals illegally in the U.S. would be arrested and deported. The controversy intensified after three deaths linked to ICE encounters were reported in a week, leading to calls from some lawmakers to cease non-urgent traffic stops. Protests erupted in Maine after the shooting of a Colombian national by ICE officers.
Public SafetyFBI Found White Substance in Vehicle of Mexican Man Killed During ICE Operation
HOUSTON – The investigation into the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo during an ICE operation in Houston continues to gather new elements. A search warrant presented by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reveals that agents found several bags containing a crystalline white substance inside the deceased man's work truck. According to the affidavit, investigators believed the appearance and packaging of the substance were consistent with methamphetamine. The court document was filed on July 14 and is part of the investigation related to the shooting that occurred on July 7 in the Magnolia Park neighborhood of Houston. The FBI sought evidence related to possible drug offenses. According to the affidavit included in the search warrant, investigators requested authorization to search the truck for evidence linked to potential federal offenses related to possession and alleged distribution of controlled substances. The document states that four people were in the vehicle, including Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was driving the truck at the time of the operation. According to the FBI's account, ICE agents attempted to stop the vehicle around 6:45 a.m. The statement claims that the driver did not stop and crossed a median in an apparent attempt to escape. Investigators assert that, following protocols, agents did not initiate a pursuit. They later located the truck again in the 6800 block of Canal Street, where they attempted a second stop. During that operation, an ICE agent shot Salgado Araujo, who died at the scene. The search warrant indicates that FBI agents visually inspected the vehicle from the outside before entering and observed several plastic bags containing a crystalline white substance. According to the document, three of those bags were on the center console, between the driver's and passenger's seats, while another similar bag was seen on the floor on the passenger's side. Subsequently, the FBI Evidence Response Team photographed the interior of the vehicle before authorities conducted a physical inspection. The search warrant states that investigators believed the appearance of the substance and the way it was packaged were consistent with methamphetamine, a drug classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. The document does not indicate whether there is a laboratory analysis confirming that the substance found is methamphetamine. The search warrant does not determine that a crime was committed. The FBI explained that it requested the court order to ensure that the vehicle search complied with all constitutional and legal requirements, although investigators believed there was already probable cause to inspect it. The document also does not establish that a crime was committed nor does it make conclusions about the criminal responsibility of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. The investigation into the shooting continues. Meanwhile, the investigation into the use of force during the operation remains open. The Department of Homeland Security maintains that the agent acted in self-defense after Salgado Araujo allegedly used the truck to try to run over an agent. This account has been rejected by the three passengers traveling with him. Through their attorney, they claim that ICE vehicles struck the truck first and that no agent was in front of the vehicle or at risk of being hit. They also assert that an agent approached from the passenger side, shouted 'Stop!' and then opened fire, fatally wounding Salgado Araujo. The Harris County District Attorney's Office, in cooperation with the City of Houston, is conducting an independent investigation to determine how the events unfolded. So far, federal authorities have not released videos of the incident. Additionally, it has been reported that the agents involved were not wearing body cameras and that the vehicles used during the operation also did not have dashboard cameras.
Public SafetyInvestigation Underway After Body Found in Donna
The Donna Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a deceased individual on Tuesday. The body was located near Salinas Boulevard. Following the report, law enforcement quickly arrived at the scene to secure the area and begin collecting initial evidence. So far, authorities have kept the victim's identity confidential, and no information regarding their name, age, or gender has been released. Additionally, the cause of death remains undetermined pending the results of the autopsy.
Public SafetyBorder Patrol Agents Catch Individual Using Fraudulent Documents in Laredo
U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Laredo North immigration checkpoint on Interstate 35 apprehended an individual using fraudulent identification documents during a Greyhound bus inspection on July 7. This incident highlights the agency's commitment to border security, as agents utilized advanced technology to identify inconsistencies in the documents. The individual, who was illegally present in the U.S. after crossing from Mexico, was taken into custody along with the fraudulent documents and a cell phone for further investigation. Federal charges are anticipated as the rise in identity fraud and document forgery continues to challenge border security efforts.
EducationTexas Mutual Invests $5,000 in Teach For America RGV to Drive Local Workforce Development
Teach For America (TFA) Rio Grande Valley has received a $5,000 investment from Texas Mutual to enhance the recruitment and retention of educators in the region. This funding aims to alleviate financial challenges for new corps members and strengthen the local teaching workforce. TFA has been active for over 35 years, partnering with schools to improve educational opportunities. Currently, more than 50 corps members and 240 alumni are making a difference in the community. Texas Mutual expressed pride in supporting TFA’s mission, which focuses on transforming education and empowering future leaders in the Rio Grande Valley.