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NationalTrump announces that the U.S. killed the leader of Tren de Aragua, 'El Niño Guerrero'
The United States killed the alleged leader of the criminal organization Tren de Aragua, Héctor Rusthenford Guerrero Flores, known as 'El Niño Guerrero,' President Donald Trump announced on Friday. 'Under my orders, U.S. Southern Command carried out a swift and lethal kinetic strike to successfully neutralize 'Niño Guerrero,' the infamous leader of Tren de Aragua, one of the most bloodthirsty terrorist organizations on the planet,' Trump stated on the social media platform Truth Social. 'This action was closely coordinated with our friends in Venezuela, with whom we are working very well. As a result, the terrorists of Tren de Aragua no longer have a safe haven in Venezuela or anywhere else,' he added.
NationalNaval Research Laboratory and Space Force Join Forces to Boost Defense Antenna Capabilities
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory has received a transportable satellite tracking antenna system from Space Systems Command to enhance its capabilities at the Blossom Point Tracking Facility in Welcome, Maryland. This new system will improve tracking, telemetry, and command operations for emerging space technologies, allowing for more flexible experimentation and long-term monitoring. The facility has a history of supporting satellite command and control and communications research. The integration of this system aims to bolster joint testing and training efforts, ultimately aiding the Space Force's mission to create realistic training environments and improve operational readiness.
Public SafetyRio Grande Valley Troopers Among Those Honored for Bravery by Texas DPS
At a recent meeting in Austin, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) honored several officers for their bravery and service. Among the recipients were Troopers Dustin Ponce and Brandon Palmer from Edinburg and Laredo, who executed a high-risk hoist rescue during catastrophic flooding in the Rio Grande Valley. They, along with Lieutenant Eric Herrera, successfully saved a stranded individual from a flooded canal. Other awards included the Javier Arana Jr. Top Trooper Awards and the Adolph Thomas Distinguished Service Awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to public safety and community service by various DPS personnel.
NationalTreasury Expands Rules for Banks on Data Sharing Related to Immigration Status
The U.S. Department of the Treasury took steps on Friday to engage the country's banks more deeply in President Donald Trump's crackdown on immigration, including issuing new guidelines that allow banks to quickly share information about suspicious customers and a notice directing them to flag indications that one of their clients may lack legal immigration status. These changes are part of the government's push to remove undocumented workers from the banking system without explicitly ordering banks to do so. To encourage bank participation, the government has framed these actions as a crackdown on fraud and crime, rather than explicitly on immigration. 'The information at your disposal can help stop a cartel financier, dismantle a money laundering network, uncover labor exploitation, or protect taxpayers from fraud,' asserted Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in prepared remarks for a banking conference in Houston. Bessent's statements and the new Treasury guidelines stem from an executive order signed by Trump in May that requires banks to closely examine the citizenship of their clients, in addition to instructing banking regulators and government departments to look for signs that individuals without legal status are opening accounts or obtaining loans or credit cards. However, that executive order did not include an explicit mandate for banks to collect citizenship information, something the sector has lobbied against for months. Banks have been able to share information about their customers with other banks under the Patriot Act program when they suspect money laundering or fraud, as part of post-September 11, 2001 efforts to combat terrorism and other crimes.
NationalTrump to Make First Flight on New AF1 During Event at Mount Rushmore
President Donald Trump is considering making the inaugural flight of the new Air Force One — a gift from Qatar — during his trip to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota next month. This trip is part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States, according to a senior White House official and a source familiar with the plans. Although a final decision has not been made, sources indicated that the months of modifications on this luxury aircraft, valued at $400 million, are nearing completion to serve as the presidential aircraft. They noted that White House officials have been discussing the possibility of Trump’s trip to Mount Rushmore, scheduled for July 3, being his first flight on the new aircraft. The Department of Defense accepted Qatar's donation last year, despite bipartisan criticism and questions about the security and ethics of using the plane for official government matters. Aviation experts estimated that the total refurbishment project could exceed $1 billion due to the installation of multiple high-security systems. The White House has stated that the plane will be delivered to the Trump presidential library foundation at the end of his term in January 2029, which would presumably require the removal of all sensitive government equipment installed on the aircraft. Trump’s presence at Mount Rushmore is one of several highlighted events scheduled around July 4 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The aircraft is undergoing final inspections and flight tests to ensure it is ready to take off for the first time with the president on board next month, according to sources. The Boeing 747 has been painted with a new color scheme — featuring a red, white, and blue design — marking a departure from the current 'Jackie Kennedy' style design characterized by light blue and white. 'Air Force One' is the designation for any aircraft transporting the president; therefore, there are several planes available for this function, according to a U.S. official. This includes two jumbo 747s currently in service, known as VC-25A. Additionally, there is a fleet of C-32A aircraft — modified versions of the 757 model — that can be used by the vice president, as well as other high-ranking government officials and cabinet members. Once the Qatar aircraft — which the Air Force calls VC-25B Bridge — is incorporated into the rotation this summer, the VC-25As will remain part of the executive fleet, and the president could still use them under the designation of Air Force One, the U.S. official indicated. A 'spectacular' fireworks show is expected to take place at Mount Rushmore on the eve of July 4, according to the National Park Service. This note was translated with the help of an artificial intelligence tool. An editor from Telemundo Digital reviewed the translation. This article was originally published in English by Kelly O'Donnell, Mosheh Gains, and Monica Alba for our sister network NBC News.
WeatherLIST: Events canceled across the Valley due to expected rainfall
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Several events that were scheduled to take place across the Valley this weekend may be canceled because of the upcoming severe weather. According to ValleyStormTeam Forecaster Craig Verley, there is a marginal risk of excessive rainfall from Monday into Tuesday. The Weather Prediction Center’s current forecast rainfall estimates for the next seven
BusinessAnnual Address Highlights Port of Brownsville’s Role as Regional Economic Engine
The Port of Brownsville held its annual State of the Port Address on June 11 at the Rancho Viejo Conference Center, celebrating its 90th anniversary. Business leaders, elected officials, and community members gathered to discuss the port's growth and its role as an economic driver in the Rio Grande Valley. BND Vice Chairman Ernesto Gutierrez highlighted over $30 billion in potential investments across various sectors, including energy and aerospace. The event also recognized the 2026 scholarship recipients from the Port of Brownsville Scholarship Program, emphasizing the port's commitment to local education and workforce development.
BusinessAbbott Highlights Financial Milestone as SpaceX Joins Nasdaq and Nasdaq Texas
Governor Greg Abbott praised SpaceX's decision to dual-list on Nasdaq and Nasdaq Texas as part of its initial public offering. He emphasized that this move not only strengthens Texas's economy but also creates high-skill jobs, showcasing the state as a hub for innovation and global capital. SpaceX, which has its headquarters and Starbase in the Rio Grande Valley, will trade under the ticker SPCX. This dual listing is seen as a significant milestone for both SpaceX and Texas, marking the state's growing importance in global capital markets and its commitment to fostering transformative companies.
BusinessRyan Peterson Discusses Rio Grande Valley Growth and Economic Expansion
Ryan Peterson recently discussed the rapid growth and economic expansion of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in an interview with Texas Border Business. He emphasized that the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area is now the fifth-largest in Texas, challenging outdated perceptions of the region as a small town. Peterson highlighted the RGV's strategic position for growth, driven by factors such as its workforce, healthcare expansion, and international trade infrastructure. He noted increasing interest from investors in various sectors, including logistics and healthcare, as the region evolves into a major economic hub. Peterson believes the RGV is already a significant player in commerce and should be recognized as such.
Public SafetyHarlingen police arrest man accused of taking pictures of men inside restrooms
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Harlingen police arrested a man accused of taking "numerous photographs" of men inside restrooms, according to a news release from the city police department. Gregorio Ramirez Jr., 39, of Harlingen, was arrested June 2 on an outstanding warrant for invasive visual recording. At approximately 9:20 a.m. on May 11, Harlingen police
WeatherCameron County To Begin Sandbag Distribution June 13th Ahead Of Expected Heavy Rainfall
Cameron County Public Works will start distributing sandbags on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or until supplies last. Residents can obtain up to six sandbags per household, while businesses may receive eight. No proof of residency is needed. The distribution will take place at all county precinct warehouses in anticipation of significant rainfall expected from Monday evening, June 15, through Wednesday, June 17, with forecasts predicting at least 2 inches of rain. Residents are advised to prepare for possible flooding and hazardous weather conditions.
CommunityTelemundo Announces Premiere of the Hit Miniseries 'El Turco,' Starring Can Yaman
Telemundo announced on Friday the premiere of 'El Turco,' the acclaimed Turkish miniseries starring international star Can Yaman (Hasan Balaban), Greta Ferro (Gloria), and Will Kemp (Marco), set to air on Tuesday, July 7, at 10 PM/9C as part of Julio Histórico, a special programming night featuring three of the summer's most anticipated premieres. 'El Turco' is part of a highly anticipated triple premiere night that also includes the U.S. debut of Operación Triunfo and the return of 'El Señor de los Cielos' for its final season, offering unprecedented entertainment for Hispanic audiences. Before its U.S. premiere, 'El Turco' established itself as an international phenomenon, securing distribution in over 20 territories across Europe, America, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. The production has captivated audiences worldwide with its striking blend of action, romance, and period drama. The miniseries tells the story of Hasan Balaban, a warrior betrayed by his own blood. Injured and pursued, he finds refuge in a small village where his presence ignites a spark of hope among those living under a brutal king. When Balaban meets Gloria, a brave and determined woman fighting to protect her people, an intense passion arises between them, capable of challenging the pain of the past and the shadows that haunt him. However, Balaban's greatest enemy is not a stranger: it is Marco, the powerful commander who rules the region... and his own brother. Separated by irreversible decisions and wounds that never healed, Balaban and Marco represent two opposing paths: one guided by honor and the desire for redemption; the other, by ambition and the thirst for power. Amidst betrayals, fragile alliances, and adrenaline-fueled battles, 'El Turco' becomes an epic tale where love blossoms amidst chaos and where two brothers are destined to confront each other, even at the cost of losing everything. Can Yaman and Greta Ferro star in 'El Turco.' Can Yaman is one of the most recognized Turkish stars worldwide, thanks to his leading roles in series like 'Dolunay,' 'Bay Yanlış,' and 'Erkenci Kuş,' the latter of which not only brought him fame but also earned him a Golden Butterfly Award for Best Romantic Comedy Actor. Born in 1989 in Suadiye, Istanbul, he is an only child and the nephew of football coach Fuat Yaman. He studied law and speaks Turkish, Italian, German, English, and Spanish fluently. In 2025, Can Yaman transformed to star in the international series 'Sandokan: The Pirate Prince,' where he portrays the legendary pirate known as 'The Tiger of Malaysia.' The ambitious production, available on streaming platforms, features a grand visual display and presents the iconic character fighting on the island of Mompracem. His role in 'El Turco' was pivotal in securing this lead role, as it is a five-episode series that combines action, romance, and historical drama in an exciting saga about loyalty, sacrifice, family, and the relentless pursuit of justice, which you can enjoy on Telemundo starting July 7. For more information, visit Telemundo.com and follow @Telemundo and @TelemundoSeries on social media using the hashtag #ElTurco.
NationalDo you know what a UFC fight is? It will be part of Trump's birthday celebration
U.S. President Donald Trump will celebrate his 80th birthday on Sunday with an unprecedented evening of mixed martial arts (MMA) fights in the White House gardens, drawing global attention to a sport that has seen remarkable growth in recent years. The event, named UFC Freedom 250 in honor of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, will feature a series of matches, including a lightweight title fight between undefeated Georgian-Hispanic Ilia Topuria and American Justin Gaethje, as well as a heavyweight bout between Brazilian Alex Pereira and Frenchman Ciryl Gane. The fights will take place in a large ring set up in the South Lawn of the White House, making it a historic event for both the UFC and the presidential residence. Outside the White House, a Fan Zone will accommodate around 80,000 people watching the fights on giant screens. The event has sparked controversy, as a civic organization has filed a lawsuit claiming the White House is being used for a private commercial spectacle, citing a potential conflict of interest due to Trump's recent purchase of $50,000 in shares of TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of UFC.
Public SafetyThe Other Outcome: 19 Arrested and 11 Police Injured as the World Cup Kicks Off in Mexico
MEXICO CITY – The opening day of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City resulted in 19 arrests for various reasons, as well as 11 police officers injured in clashes with protesters near the stadium where Mexico faced South Africa, authorities reported on Friday. In a statement, the city's Citizen Security Secretariat (SSC) highlighted that the special operation for the World Cup opening involved police forces and volunteer groups, who were deployed near the Estadio Ciudad de México (formerly known as Azteca) and in key gathering areas. Prior to Thursday's match, officers arrested four individuals—two men and two women—near the sports venue for carrying 'fake access passes.' In the same area, there were mobilizations and a 'group of masked individuals who threw firecrackers, stones, and other objects at the police,' according to the SSC. 'As a result of these actions, eight people were arrested and presented to the judicial authorities. Additionally, four more individuals were taken before a judge for public disturbance. All were later released,' the statement detailed. Furthermore, 11 police officers were injured, six of whom were transported to hospitals for medical attention due to contusions.
Public SafetyTexas shooting leaves 1 dead and 9 injured as police are in a standoff with a suspect
A shooting in Midland, Texas, on Friday morning resulted in one death and ten injuries. The suspect, 45-year-old Victor Mata Villarreal, had previously shot at police during a chase. After firing at officers and bystanders, he barricaded himself in an abandoned veterinary clinic. Police confirmed Villarreal was found dead inside the building hours later, though the cause of death was not disclosed. Four victims underwent surgery, while five were treated and released. Midland, a city of about 140,000 residents, has a history of gun violence, including a mass shooting in 2019 that left seven dead.
Public SafetyDrivers killed in two-vehicle crash, McAllen police say
A tragic accident in McAllen resulted in the deaths of two individuals early Friday morning. The collision occurred around 5:30 a.m. on the 6400 block of South McColl Road. The victims were identified as 22-year-old Eber Sanchez from Edinburg, who was driving a Chevrolet Silverado, and 41-year-old Cesar Eduardo Martinez Jr., who was behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Tahoe. McAllen police are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
Public SafetyMan wanted for aggravated sexual assault of a child
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - Cameron County Sheriff Manuel Trevino is urging the public to be on the lookout for a man wanted on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child. The man in question is identified at Jesus Estaban Escobar, 39 years old. He is described as being 5`11, 280 lbs. He was last
NationalUSDA Steps Up Support for Ranchers with New Directive to Restore National Forest Grazing
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins has announced a new directive aimed at enhancing support for ranchers by restoring grazing on national forest lands. This initiative is part of the USDA's efforts to implement the Grazing Action Plan and strengthen American ranching. The directive emphasizes the importance of grazing for rural economies and food security, while also addressing bureaucratic challenges that have hindered ranchers. Key actions include expanding access to closed allotments, streamlining permitting processes, and improving communication with ranchers. This move is expected to benefit approximately 23,000 permit holders who depend on public rangelands.
Public SafetyHow to keep your kids safe online this summer break
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With summer break officially underway, children may be spending more time online. Whether they're using the internet for gaming or social media, local law enforcement and government agencies are advising parents to be aware of who their children are talking to and what they're doing online. Common apps parents should be aware
Public SafetyDrivers killed in two-vehicle collision in McAllen
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Two drivers were killed in an early Friday morning collision, according to the McAllen Police Department. At approximately 5:30 a.m., McAllen police responded to the crash on the 6400 block of South McColl Road. Police say two vehicles were involved in the crash: a Chevrolet Colorado and a Chevrolet Tahoe. Police