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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.
HealthDHR Health Neuroscience Institute Nationally Recognized for Commitment to Excellence in Stroke Care
The DHR Health Neuroscience Institute in Edinburg has been awarded the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus award for its excellence in stroke care. This recognition highlights the institute's dedication to providing timely and appropriate treatment for stroke patients, following nationally recognized guidelines. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., and early intervention is crucial for improving survival rates and reducing disabilities. The program aims to enhance patient care by ensuring adherence to the latest research-based protocols, ultimately helping to save lives and support recovery.
Public SafetyTxDOT: Lane closures at Edinburg intersection due to wire installation
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation is alerting drivers of lane closures happening Thursday in Edinburg. The closures will be in effect at the intersection of State Highway 107 and Richardson Road throughout the day. Lanes will be closed to allow crews to install overhead wire at the intersection and may cause traffic to
HealthA Blood Test Could Help Detect High Alzheimer's Risk in Healthy Individuals
A blood test may predict whether seemingly healthy older adults are likely to develop Alzheimer's symptoms in the next five to ten years, researchers reported on Wednesday. This information could be reassuring or alarming, but for now, it serves as a potential tool to accelerate drug development by helping to identify and enroll high-risk individuals in studies of potential Alzheimer treatments or prevention strategies. Large clinical trials are already testing whether certain medications could prevent or at least delay the disease, and if any prove effective, doctors will need a simple way to determine who should try them. The scientists behind the new study emphasize that it is too early for healthy individuals to seek the p-tau217 test, which is currently used to help diagnose whether those experiencing cognitive issues have Alzheimer's or another disorder.
NationalPaxton Secures $150M Settlement Over 23andMe Data Breach
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has secured a $150 million settlement from 23andMe following a data breach that affected 6.9 million customers in 2023. The settlement, part of a multistate coalition involving 42 states, addresses serious security failures by the genetic testing company. After the breach, which exposed sensitive genetic information, 23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March 2025. Texas will receive $1,266,860 from the settlement, while 23andMe also agreed to a $46.75 million class-action settlement for affected consumers. The agreement includes enhanced data security measures and compliance with state privacy laws.
PoliticsCuellar responds to Trump's criticisms
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, on Tuesday said he's grateful for a pardon by President Trump and brushed off recent criticisms by the president for running for office as a Democrat in South Texas.
BusinessTexas Economy Poised for Continued Growth Over Next Five Years
The Texas economy is expected to experience significant growth over the next five years, despite current challenges. Projections indicate an annual increase in employment of 1.78%, potentially adding nearly 1.4 million jobs by 2030. Texas led the nation in population growth from July 2024 to July 2025, with over 391,000 new residents. The state has also won its 14th consecutive Governor’s Cup for attracting major business projects. Additionally, Texas is becoming a hub for data center developments, which are crucial for supporting the AI industry. While oil prices have surged due to global conflicts, the overall economic outlook remains positive.
CommunityUSS George Washington Recognizes Donna Native as Top Airwing Warfighter
Airman Alma Gutierrez, a native of Donna, Texas, was honored as the Airwing Warfighter of the Week aboard the USS George Washington (CVN 73) on July 1, 2026. This recognition is part of a program where the ship's captain acknowledges outstanding sailors for their achievements. Gutierrez, serving with Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, played a crucial role as an F/A-18 Super Hornet Plane Captain, facilitating 16 aircraft launches and conducting nine inspections, ensuring mission readiness. A 2025 graduate of Phar-San Juan-Alamo Early College High School, she expressed pride in serving her country during her eight months in the Navy.
EducationWeslaco Brothers Redefine Leadership and Education Through STC Dual Credit Program
Jaden Daniel Gutierrez and his younger brother, Jeshua Davian Gutierrez, made history in Weslaco by becoming the first siblings to hold the title of Mr. Weslaco consecutively. This achievement highlights their family's commitment to leadership and community service, as well as the benefits of South Texas College's (STC) Dual Credit Programs. Jaden, a Weslaco High School graduate, earned an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice through STC and is now pursuing a bachelor's degree at UTRGV. Jeshua, inspired by his brother, is also enrolled in STC's program to gain college credits while in high school, emphasizing the importance of education and mutual support in their journey.
CommunityBrownsville Celebrates State Recognition After Sweeping Three TAMI Awards for Media and Marketing
The City of Brownsville's Communications & Marketing Department (CMD) and Brownsville TV (BTV) received three TAMI Awards from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers during the July 7 Commission Meeting. These awards recognize excellence in municipal communications, including video production and public information campaigns. Brownsville was honored for its State of the City Opening Achievements, a new downtown campaign, and the 89th Annual Grand International Parade. City Manager Alan Guard praised the team's dedication to informing residents and promoting civic engagement. The TAMI Awards highlight the city's commitment to effective communication and community storytelling.
NationalLawmakers Introduce PROMISE Act to Address the Future of Social Security
A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced a bill that would create a formal process for Congress to develop and vote on a long-term plan to protect the financial future of Social Security, as the program faces a deficit that could eventually lead to benefit cuts. The PROMISE Act—short for Protecting Retirement Opportunities and Maintaining Income Security for Everyone—comes as the latest report from the Social Security Trustees warns that the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund could deplete its reserves by 2032. Once those reserves are exhausted, the fund, which pays retirement and survivor benefits, would only be able to cover about 78% of scheduled benefits for approximately 71 million people unless Congress takes action. 'Social Security is on an unsustainable path that will lead to drastic benefit cuts for retirees and growing skepticism among workers contributing to a program on the brink of insolvency,' said Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina and one of the bill's sponsors, in a statement. 'I’m not going to pretend there is consensus on how to solve this problem, but the math is unforgiving: the longer Congress waits to act, the fewer viable options will remain,' he added.
WeatherHot, breezy, mostly dry days ahead
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On tap weather-wise this Wednesday, we'll see near-average highs with many reaching the mid to upper 90s under mostly cloudy skies. As dewpoint temperatures sit in the 70s, not exactly topping out the muggy meter, but it's close, we'll be under a moderate heat risk, plus feels like temps will range
CommunityTexas Shrimp Association Sets Sail with ‘Blessing of the Fleet’
On July 8, the Port of Brownsville hosted the annual Blessing of the Fleet, led by Reverend Joel Flores from Immaculate Conception Cathedral. The event marked the upcoming opening of the commercial shrimp season on July 15. Community members, shrimpers, and local officials gathered to honor those lost in the past year and to pray for a safe and successful season. Challenges facing the shrimp industry include a shortage of work visas and rising fuel prices. To support local shrimpers, Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 823, which mandates labeling for shrimp sold in restaurants, helping consumers choose Texas-caught shrimp.
NationalStarship’s Thirteenth Flight Test Set for July 16th
SpaceX is set to conduct the thirteenth flight test of its Starship on Thursday, July 16, with a launch window opening at 5:45 p.m. CT. The test aims to achieve objectives similar to previous flights, including deploying 20 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites. Modifications have been made to the Super Heavy booster and Starship's propulsion system to enhance reliability after issues were encountered in the twelfth flight. A live webcast will begin 30 minutes prior to launch on X @SpaceX, where updates will also be provided. This flight marks the first time Starship will carry V3 Starlink satellites into space.
PoliticsKen Paxton Campaign Rally Brings Republican Candidates to McAllen
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton led the "Rally in the Valley" on July 14, 2026, at University Draft House Townlake in McAllen. The event featured Republican candidates Eric Flores, running for Texas’ 34th Congressional District, and Tano Tijerina, running for the 28th District, along with National Border Patrol Council President Paul Perez. Speakers emphasized themes of freedom, family, and conservative values, urging attendees to engage in the campaign and vote. They criticized current Democratic representation in South Texas and highlighted Paxton’s efforts against what they termed harmful policies from the Biden administration regarding border security and law enforcement.
NationalTrump says ICE can't give up traffic stops: 'Important and effective'
President Donald Trump on Wednesday said Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should continue utilizing traffic stops, calling the tactic one of the agency's "most important and effective" crime-fighting tools.
SportsLive Updates: Argentina and England Clash in a Semifinal That Promises to Be a Preview of the Final
What you need to know You can watch this match live and in Spanish on Telemundo's open signal or Peacock. The game starts at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT and will take place in Atlanta, Georgia. The winner will secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final and will play against France on Sunday. Argentina and England, two of the top favorites for the title, face off this Wednesday in Atlanta for a ticket to the grand Final of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Follow live updates here.
NationalInteractive Map: Where Shootings and Incidents Involving ICE Agents Have Occurred
The shooting deaths of a Mexican man in Houston and a Colombian man in Maine within a week have renewed national attention on incidents involving agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Using data from The Trace's Gun Violence Data, which tracks information on gun violence, this interactive map highlights some incidents involving ICE agents since June 2025, when the Trump administration launched a large-scale federal immigration operation in Southern California. In response to comments about the incidents over the past year, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated: 'Thanks to the efforts of the Trump administration, federal law enforcement agents are removing violent criminals from their communities and are directly responsible for the lowest homicide rate in 125 years!' The DHS included a January Axios report on the decline in murder rates since 1900. Timeline: Shootings and other force incidents involving ICE since June 2025. Click on a point for more information about the incident.