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Public SafetyBrownsville police investigating two shooting incidents
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Brownsville Police Department is investigating two separate shooting incidents that took place Sunday evening. According to a news release from Brownsville police, officers responded to the area of Crestview Drive, where a vehicle driving through the neighborhood had fired multiple shots into the air before leaving the area. Officers responded to
SportsHidalgo County judge to wear UTSA gear after Vaqueros loss
The UTRGV Vaqueros faced off against UTSA in San Antonio on Saturday, losing 45-16 in their first game against an FBS opponent. This outcome resulted in a friendly wager between Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez and Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, where the losing judge must wear the winning school's apparel at their next meeting. Judge Cortez will don UTSA gear at the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court meeting on September 15. He congratulated UTSA on their victory and expressed pride in the Vaqueros' performance, despite the loss. This was UTRGV's second game of the season, following a 44-0 win against UT Permian Basin.
Public SafetySmall Plane Disappears During Flight from Bahamas to Miami; Hispanic Family on Board
Authorities have launched an intense search and rescue operation after an aircraft with four people on board lost communication while en route from the Bahamas to South Florida. So far, officials have not confirmed the identities of the occupants, but preliminary reports from the family indicate that it includes a Hispanic couple and their two grandchildren. They have been identified as 80-year-old Mario Lamar, 79-year-old Lili Lamar, 28-year-old Sofía Sosa, and 22-year-old Christian Sosa. The family had spent the weekend at their second home in Great Harbour Cay and were returning to South Florida on Monday. The Bahamas Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) reported that it is investigating an incident involving a Piper PA-34 aircraft with U.S. registration N212ML. According to authorities, the aircraft took off from Great Harbour Cay Airport at 10:12 a.m. bound for Miami Executive Airport but lost contact with Miami Air Traffic Control during the flight. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed on social media that it is collaborating with Bahamian authorities in the search for the aircraft, which may have gone down approximately 15 miles from Andros Island. Mario Lamar, an experienced pilot with over 40 years of flying experience, was piloting the aircraft with his wife, Lili, and their grandchildren, Christian and Sofi, on board. The last recorded contact occurred around 11:04 a.m., near the western side of Andros Island, according to the family. In a video sent to Telemundo 51 by Silvia Larrieu, Mario Lamar's niece, the family is asking for help from aircraft or boats that can assist in the search and urges anyone who may have seen something to inform the authorities. Just before takeoff, the mother of the two young adults received a text message from her daughter. However, as time passed without any notice of their landing, and seeing that the message did not even finish sending, the family began to alert the authorities. The last known position of the plane was over waters west of North Andros, Bahamas. Initial searches conducted by the Coast Guard in that area have not yielded results so far. An HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircraft is participating in the rescue efforts. The AAIA stated that the investigation is ongoing and more details will be released as the search and rescue operations progress.
Public SafetyAmazon Plane Crash in Miami Collided with Van Carrying 7 Passengers
An Amazon cargo plane crashed at Miami International Airport on Sunday, resulting in five fatalities. The aircraft, a Boeing 767-300 operated by 21 Air, collided with two vehicles after veering off the runway, including a van carrying seven passengers. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy confirmed the details during a press conference, stating that the recovery of the victims is the priority. The plane, which had just arrived from San Juan, Puerto Rico, was on its third flight of the day. Investigators will examine various factors, including the flight's history and weather conditions, to determine the cause of the accident.
Public SafetyAuthorities Investigate Two Shootings in Brownsville
The Brownsville Police Department is investigating two shootings that occurred Sunday night in the Crestview Drive and Orange Street areas. In Crestview Drive, officers responded to reports of a vehicle driving through the neighborhood and firing multiple shots into the air before fleeing the scene. Meanwhile, in the Orange Street area, a group of individuals was reported to be firing shots near an apartment complex, with one building struck by a stray bullet. No injuries have been reported so far, and both incidents are under investigation. Police emphasized that discharging firearms in residential areas poses a serious threat to community safety.
Public SafetyReport Reveals Horrific Details About Woman Accused of Killing Her 'Possessed' Children
SAN ANTONIO, Texas – A woman accused of murdering her two children was suffering from delusions and exhibited a strong fixation on religious themes, according to a report from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). The child mortality report released on September 2, 2026, indicated that the accused, Marlene Vidal, had a history of mental health issues. She remains in jail awaiting trial on capital murder charges. The following statements are part of the report released by the state agency. According to the document, authorities received a report on May 13, 2026, from family members expressing concern for the accused's mental state. The report noted that the woman had experienced a psychotic episode in June 2025. In the weeks leading up to the incident, the accused claimed her children were possessed, that people were following her, and that someone was trying to poison her and the minors. Relatives also reported that the woman abruptly left a gathering with her children because she believed they were being pursued. On the day of the report, family members requested a welfare check after the accused left a relative's home with the minors. During a phone call, the woman shouted that the children were possessed and that if anyone was going to harm them, it would be her. The report also indicated that the accused had been hospitalized for mental health issues in 2025 after driving erratically with the minors in the vehicle. After receiving treatment, she was advised to continue therapy and other mental health services, but she did not complete those programs. Two days after the report, DFPS received information that the two minors had been found dead inside a burned vehicle in San Antonio. The investigation determined that both died while in their mother's care. The medical examiner identified multiple stab wounds. Additionally, the report states that the accused told authorities, 'I caused this.' According to the report, an aunt recounted that the woman regularly performed rituals around the children because she believed they were possessed. The investigation concluded that the accused committed physical abuse against both minors, which led to their deaths. The document also reveals that during an investigation in 2025, authorities observed unusual behaviors in the accused. According to DFPS, the woman exhibited delusions, disorganized thoughts, and an intense fixation on religious themes. In that investigation, the agency confirmed an allegation of negligent supervision. However, no evidence was found to support claims of sexual abuse against the father or physical neglect towards the minors. The case originated on May 15, 2026, when a fire was reported between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m. in the parking lot of a warehouse located at 512 Richland Hills Drive in San Antonio. Police information indicated that the victims were two children, later identified as a seven-year-old girl and a five-year-old boy with autism. Police reported that the mother was at the scene during the investigation and allegedly told authorities, 'I am the one you are looking for.' She was subsequently arrested and taken in for questioning. According to authorities, a man walking his dog saw the burning vehicle, while another woman claimed to have called 911 to report the fire. After extinguishing the flames, firefighters found the severely charred bodies of the minors inside the vehicle.
NationalMenéndez Brothers to Have Parole Hearing Sooner; Family Grateful
The Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, received a positive update regarding their parole hearing, which has been rescheduled to an earlier date. Originally set for March 2027, the hearing will now take place due to a provision in California's Proposition 9, allowing for earlier reviews under certain circumstances. The brothers, serving life sentences for the 1989 murders of their parents, were previously denied parole last year. Their family expressed gratitude for the board's decision, highlighting the brothers' personal growth and contributions during their incarceration. Both are currently held at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego.
Public SafetyMan accused in wife's murder after apparent physical fight
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man accused of murdering his wife is pending an arraignment, according to a news release from the Cameron County Sheriff's Office. Aldo Vargas, 45, was charged with murder, a first-degree felony, according to the Cameron County Sheriff's Office. On Sunday, Cameron County deputies responded to a 911 call at the 29000
NationalMexico 'is not a colony of any country'; president reacts to Trump's map
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded strongly to a map shared by former U.S. President Donald Trump, asserting that Mexico is not and will not be a colony or protectorate of any foreign nation. She emphasized Mexico's sovereignty and independence, particularly in September, a month celebrating the country's independence. Trump's map, which labeled the Gulf of Mexico as the 'Gulf of America' and suggested renaming New Mexico to 'New America,' sparked Sheinbaum's remarks. She also highlighted Trump's previous comments about Mexico, which she dismissed as provocations, reaffirming Mexico's status as a free and sovereign nation.
WeatherThe heat takes no holiday as triple digits continue
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Happy Labor Day! This Monday started in the upper 70s to low 80s with dew points sitting in the 70s. While its not exactly topping out the muggy meter, it will absolutely play a role in how we feel later today. Highs will climb above normal for early September normals, between 5
WeatherCategory 3 Hurricane Lowell Threatens Heavy Rain and Flooding in Hawaii Islands
Hurricane Lowell, a Category 3 storm, poses a significant threat to Hawaii, bringing heavy rainfall and potential flooding. As of Monday afternoon, the hurricane was located 325 miles south-southwest of Lihue, with maximum sustained winds of 115 mph, moving north-northwest at 15 mph. A hurricane warning is in effect for Kauai County, including Kauai and Niihau, while a tropical storm warning is active for Oahu. The storm is expected to weaken but could still deliver 6 to 10 inches of rain to Kauai, with isolated totals up to 16 inches. Flash flooding and landslides are possible, particularly in Kauai and Oahu.
NationalMillions in Bitcoins Stolen and Squandered on Luxuries; Scammers Face Justice
A group of young scammers executed one of the largest cryptocurrency thefts in U.S. history, stealing over $240 million in Bitcoin through a sophisticated social engineering scheme. They celebrated their success with extravagant spending, including luxury cars and private jets. Malone Lam, 22, was arrested after spending over $569,000 in a single night at a Los Angeles nightclub. The FBI has charged Lam and 17 others, highlighting a growing trend in cryptocurrency fraud. As investigations continue, the government faces criticism for insufficient regulatory measures against such cybercrimes, which have surged nearly 50% since 2025.
NationalNepal Observes Mourning for 1,300 Victims of Floods that Struck the Country
Nepal observed a day of mourning on Monday for the over 1,300 victims of the August 26 floods. Government offices lowered flags, and families engaged in mourning rituals for the deceased, including foreign nationals. In Hindu tradition, mourning lasts 13 days, culminating in prayers for the souls of the departed. Many families held symbolic funerals for missing loved ones, as cremation is a vital final rite. Protests arose in Kathmandu demanding faster rescue efforts for hundreds missing from hydroelectric plants. Rescue teams from India, China, South Korea, and the U.S. are actively searching for survivors among the debris and tunnels.
BusinessSnoop Dogg is Looking to Hire an International Ice Cream Taster
Snoop Dogg's ice cream brand, Dr. Bombay, is looking for an International Ice Cream Taster for a three-month contract that pays $30,000. The selected candidate will travel globally, sampling unique ice creams and desserts, while sharing their findings with the Dr. Bombay team. Ideal applicants should be food enthusiasts, comfortable with social media, and able to tell stories about their experiences. Candidates must speak English, have a valid passport, and be available for the entire contract. Submissions can include videos and social media links. This position also allows the taster to help choose the next ice cream flavor for Snoop's brand.
NationalGas Prices in the U.S. Hit Record High on Labor Day
Gas prices in the U.S. have reached an all-time high as the Labor Day weekend approaches, averaging $4.14 per gallon, nearly a dollar more than last year. This surpasses the previous record of $3.82 set in 2012, according to AAA. Factors contributing to the surge include geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict involving Iran, which has disrupted oil shipments. Diesel prices have also hit a record average of $5.85 per gallon. While typically prices drop after summer travel, current refinery operations and international issues make future price predictions uncertain. Energy Secretary Chris Wright noted efforts to lower prices but acknowledged they are higher than in 2025.
Public SafetyInvestigation Underway into Causes of Amazon Cargo Plane Crash that Left at Least 5 Dead
Federal investigators are working to determine the cause of a cargo plane crash involving an Amazon aircraft at Miami International Airport, which resulted in at least five fatalities and five injuries. The Boeing 767 reportedly landed too late, crashing into vehicles and catching fire. Experts suggest that the investigation will focus on the landing sequence, including whether the pilots should have aborted the landing. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched a team to Miami, and the investigation will also consider weather conditions and the aircraft's mechanical state. The incident caused significant flight disruptions, with over 160 cancellations.
PoliticsProgreso mayor, two candidates face lawsuit over ballot eligibility ahead of November election
In Progreso, a lawsuit has been filed against three candidates for the upcoming November election, including Mayor Hugo Gamboa, candidate Norberto Rangel, and Commissioner Stephanie Alegria. The lawsuit claims that Gamboa and Rangel did not pay the required filing fees when they submitted their applications, violating city regulations. Additionally, it alleges that Alegria failed to include necessary information in her paperwork. Their opponents are requesting that a judge disqualify them from the ballot while the case is pending. A hearing date for the lawsuit has not yet been established.
NationalAt least 5 dead after Amazon cargo plane barreled off runway at Miami airport
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, an Amazon cargo plane crashed at Miami International Airport, resulting in at least five fatalities. The Boeing 767, which had arrived from San Juan, Puerto Rico, overshot the runway around 2 p.m., colliding with vehicles and igniting a fire. Miami-Dade County officials reported three individuals suffered critical injuries, while two others were hospitalized with less severe conditions. Emergency crews faced challenges, including a fuel leak and trapped individuals inside vehicles and the aircraft. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident, with Amazon prioritizing the safety and care of those affected.
NationalTrump administration makes another appeal to the Supreme Court to allow mail ballot restrictions
The Trump administration has once again appealed to the Supreme Court to implement new restrictions on mail ballots ahead of the midterm elections. This appeal follows a ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani, which extended an order against the Postal Service related to Trump's executive order for the November elections. With states already beginning to send out mail ballots, the administration faces a tight timeline for changes. Nearly one-third of U.S. voters utilize mail ballots, and critics argue that the proposed restrictions are unconstitutional and could disenfranchise voters. The ACLU has condemned the rule as chaotic and detrimental to election integrity.
NationalUS tourism groups want to win Canadian visitors back. A testy trade war isnt helping
U.S. tourism organizations are actively trying to attract Canadian visitors back, following a significant decline in travel due to strained relations between the two countries. After President Trump's controversial remarks and the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, many Canadians have opted to avoid traveling to the U.S. In response, states like New York and tourism hotspots like Las Vegas are offering discounts and promotions to entice visitors. Despite some signs of recovery during the summer, Canadian travel to the U.S. remains below pre-2024 levels, with many Canadians choosing alternative destinations like Mexico instead.