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Community4Ever Family: Arturo, Abigail, Garett and Alanhi
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS4 works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our “4Ever Family” partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet four siblings, two brothers and two sisters, who are ready to meet their matched forever family. Meet Arturo,
Public Safety11 charged in Texas rail container deaths
Federal prosecutors have charged 11 people in connection with a human smuggling operation that left seven migrants, including a minor, dead inside a sealed shipping container aboard a freight train in Laredo, Texas.
11 indicted in smuggling deaths of 6 migrants in rail cargo container in Texas
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A U.S. attorney announced a federal indictment on Friday against 11 people in the smuggling deaths of six migrants found in a rail cargo container in Texas in May. The six people were found dead in a rail yard shipping container in Laredo, Texas in May. They were from Honduras and
EducationTexas Extends Workforce Pell Grant Application Window to Boost Career Training
Texas has extended the application period for the new Workforce Pell Grant program, allowing more colleges and technical schools to submit eligible short-term training programs. This initiative aims to provide affordable training for high-demand careers in fields such as construction, healthcare, and information technology. Governor Abbott emphasized that the program offers a significant opportunity for Texans to gain industry-recognized credentials, leading to better job prospects and higher wages. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, in collaboration with other state agencies, is overseeing the implementation of this program, which requires eligible programs to meet specific federal performance standards.
Public SafetyPolice seek to identify suspect vehicle involved in Edinburg hit-and-run
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Edinburg Police Department is working to identify a suspect vehicle involved in a hit-and-run that caused property damage on Thursday. Police described the suspect vehicle as a white four-door passenger car, which may have noticeable front-right-side damage. According to police, the car struck and destroyed a wooden fence that covered
SportsLeBron James signing with Philadelphia 76ers
After weeks of speculation, NBA star LeBron James announced he is signing with the Philadelphia 76ers.
EducationLos Fresnos CISD names lone finalist for superintendent
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees named a lone finalist for superintendent during a board meeting on Thursday. According to a news release, Joseph Villarreal was selected after a nationwide search and extensive community input. The selection comes after more than 600 community members participated in a
Public SafetyThird Person Arrested for Homicide in San Juan Parking Lot
San Juan police reported the arrest of a third person allegedly connected to the homicide that occurred in a supermarket parking lot in San Juan. The suspect is a 24-year-old woman identified as Ivory Ruiz. Ruiz faces the following charges: obstruction of arrest, a Class A misdemeanor, with a bond set at $20,000; three counts of assault against a peace officer, second-degree felonies, with a bond of $30,000 for each charge; and resisting arrest or transport, a Class A misdemeanor, with a bond of $20,000. Police noted that two individuals had already been arrested in connection with this case and stated that the investigation remains active. They also indicated that no further information will be released at this time as the case is still under investigation.
HealthCity of Brownsville’s HR Team Honored Nationally for Exceptional Health Plan
The City of Brownsville's Organizational Development & Human Resources Department has been awarded the 2026 Rosie Award and recognized as one of the Top 5 Public Sector Health Plans for 2026 by Health Rosetta. This honor will be celebrated at RosettaFest 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee, where public-sector leaders will discuss strategies for enhancing health plan performance. City Manager Alan Guard emphasized the importance of investing in employee health and well-being through the One City Initiative. The award highlights Brownsville's efforts in healthcare education and collaboration, aiming to create a healthier workforce and improve public service delivery.
PoliticsGov. Abbott Orders State Regulators to Shield Texas Homeowners From Data Center Costs
Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) are implementing measures to shield Texas homeowners from the financial impact of data center expansions. Following his directive from June 10, the agencies are ensuring that data centers cover their own infrastructure costs and do not shift expenses to residential ratepayers. Key actions include requiring data centers to contribute to reducing residential electric bills and prioritizing power for Texas families. Abbott aims to solidify these protections in collaboration with the Legislature in the upcoming session.
Public SafetyBody of Missing Man Found in Combes
The Combes Police Department announced that the search for 74-year-old José Jesús Lara has been concluded. During the investigation, officers received additional information that led them to conduct a new inspection at Lara's residence. With the assistance of local police from Precinct 5 of Cameron County, Eddie Solís, the agents located José Jesús Lara in a concealed area of the home that had not been discovered during the initial search. The police did not disclose the cause of death or whether there is any criminal investigation related to the case.
EducationThe PossAble Dream Receives $150,000 State Grant for Vocational Equipment and Training
The PossAble Dream Adult High School in Pharr, Texas, has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission to enhance vocational training for adult learners. The funding will benefit 22 students pursuing HVAC certifications through South Texas College and medical assistant certifications through Rio Grande Valley College. Commissioner Alberto Treviño III highlighted the importance of collaboration among educators and employers in supporting students' career goals. The school, which opened in August 2025, offers tuition-free education for adults aged 18 to 50, focusing on high-demand fields while providing essential support services to help students succeed.
Public SafetyBuilding linked to the Gulf Cartel scheduled for auction in September
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A building linked to the Gulf Cartel may be sold to the highest bidder in September. The building, which is located on Military Highway in San Benito, belonged to Carlos Favian Martinez, the son-in-law of Gulf Cartel boss Osiel Cardenas Guillen. Martinez pleaded guilty to extorting people who crossed the Free
WeatherTexas Governor Confirms Third Death Due to Flooding
Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported on Friday that a third fatality has been confirmed due to this month's catastrophic flooding, which has prompted over 500 rescue operations, caused damage to homes and businesses, and left some areas inaccessible. Abbott noted that one person was swept away by the current on Monday while attempting to drive through the floodwaters. The governor visited the city of Cotulla, located about 90 miles southwest of San Antonio, to assess the damage caused by the flooding, which he indicated has left some parts of the city still unreachable. The Nueces River reached a critical flood stage at 29 feet but has already surpassed its peak and is expected to continue to decline.
Public SafetyRepeat Offender Receives 84 Month Prison Sentence for Federal Firearms Violations
Raymond Gutierrez, a 55-year-old man from Laredo, has been sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms. He pleaded guilty on July 29, 2025. U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos emphasized the seriousness of Gutierrez's actions, which included holding two individuals at gunpoint and threatening them during a domestic disturbance at his ranch. Law enforcement had previously responded to multiple incidents involving Gutierrez's violent behavior and illegal firearms possession. Following a search warrant executed on February 21, 2025, authorities seized six firearms from his property. Gutierrez, a convicted felon, is prohibited from owning guns.
NationalMore than two dozen states sue Trump over disaster funding conditions
More than two dozen states filed a lawsuit on Thursday against the Donald Trump administration for requiring them to meet election and immigration-related conditions in order to receive billions of dollars in federal disaster relief funds. The lawsuit, filed in Rhode Island and challenging policies from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, claims the government is forcing states to alter their electoral systems and assist the Department of Homeland Security with immigration law enforcement. The conditions would also allow the Department of Homeland Security to cancel grants at any time and for any reason. 'Once again, the Trump administration is threatening public safety by illegally withholding billions in critical funds, and once again, they will not get away with it,' said Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha. 'This government is using the safety of Americans as collateral in an attempt to intimidate states into relinquishing their constitutional right to enact policies and laws that best serve their residents.' The states argue that imposing conditions on funds allocated by Congress violates the Administrative Procedure Act and the spending clause of the national Constitution. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment.
NationalCensus Bureau Releases Latest Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey Data
The U.S. Census Bureau has published new data from the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS), focusing on various aspects such as employment, housing costs, mental health, and social connections. This data, gathered from approximately 136,000 households in March 2026, includes tables and an infographic showcasing U.S. arts and entertainment activities. Users can access detailed information on topics like job loss, employment status, food security, health insurance, and household expenses. HTOPS is conducted bi-monthly to provide timely insights into the socioeconomic conditions affecting American households.
Public SafetyFederal Jury Convicts Mission Resident in Multi-Count Corruption Trial
A 50-year-old resident of Mission, Veronica Inez O’Cana, has been found guilty of conspiracy to commit money laundering, violating the Travel Act, and witness tampering. After a three-day trial and three hours of jury deliberation, O’Cana was convicted for her role in laundering approximately $30,000 intended to benefit a member of the Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board. The scheme aimed to influence the awarding of a $20-25 million energy savings contract. O’Cana faces up to 20 years in prison for the money laundering and witness tampering charges, with sentencing set for October 7. She remains on bond pending the hearing.
Public SafetyMan Arrested in McAllen for Evading Arrest During Traffic Stop
The report was made on Thursday, July 23, around 6 p.m., in the 1000 block of Austin Avenue in McAllen. According to police, when they attempted to pull him over, 34-year-old Alan Michelle Álvarez allegedly fled the scene after an officer initiated the traffic stop. Álvarez now faces a charge of evading arrest, a third-degree felony, and has been set bail at $5,000. The driver was taken into custody without incident and later transported to the Hidalgo County Jail.
Public SafetyWho is Elvia Cabrera and what is happening now in the case of the murder of Gabriela Nicole Pratts?
Elvia Cabrera Rivera was found guilty on Thursday of the first-degree murder of 16-year-old Gabriela Nicole Pratts, a case that has garnered significant public attention both in Puerto Rico and in other parts of the United States. According to the evidence and testimonies presented during the trial, Cabrera allegedly handed the murder weapon to her daughter, Anthonieska Avilés Cabrera, who reportedly stabbed Gabriela Nicole Pratts 11 times. Following the verdict, both the defense and Cabrera's family insisted on her innocence. Meanwhile, prosecutors emphasized that the evidence presented in court was sufficient to prove her guilt of first-degree murder. However, the judicial process is not yet over. Attention now turns to the case of Anthonieska Avilés Cabrera, who is now 18 years old and also faces first-degree murder charges for the teenager's death. Jury selection for her trial began on June 30, although experts anticipate that the process could extend over several weeks due to the notoriety of the case and the challenge of finding an impartial jury. Telemundo PR journalist Walter Soto León, who has closely followed the judicial proceedings, explained that during Elvia Cabrera's trial, jury members were sequestered for several days in a hotel, without access to television, radio, or cell phones, a measure implemented to avoid external influences. Soto León also indicated that one aspect that continues to raise questions is the origin of the conflict that led to the crime. He stated that there was a relationship that was apparently not approved by the family, which caused tensions and multiple confrontations. According to his analysis, Gabriela Nicole Pratts had no direct connection to that initial conflict but ended up being the fatal victim of a series of confrontations that occurred simultaneously. Although the murder weapon has not been recovered, key testimonies presented during the judicial process indicated that Elvia Cabrera had handed a sharp object to her daughter and later stored it in her purse before leaving the scene. Elvia Cabrera's sentencing is scheduled for September 20. If convicted according to the jury's verdict, she could face up to 99 years in prison for first-degree murder.