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HealthUSDA announces possible case of New World screwworm in South Texas
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investigating a suspected case of New World screwworm in South Texas, which could threaten the state's $15 billion cattle industry. A sample from La Pryor in Zavala County tested positive at the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Officials have activated response teams and are collaborating with local partners to manage the situation. The screwworm, a parasitic fly, has not been seen in the U.S. since the 1960s and poses serious risks to livestock. The USDA is also working with Mexican and Panamanian officials to eradicate the pest using sterile fly techniques.
Public SafetyPlea deal being sought for Edinburg man accused of killing motorcyclist
Kevin Alfredo Gonzalez, a 20-year-old from Edinburg, is facing charges of criminal negligent homicide following a fatal motorcycle accident on January 12, 2024. Prosecutors are offering a plea deal that includes five years of deferred adjudication, a $3,000 fine, and restitution. A hearing is scheduled for July 29 for Gonzalez to decide on the plea. The incident resulted in the death of Isaiah Angelo Torres, who was struck while Gonzalez attempted an unsafe turn on La Homa Road near West Mile 4 Road. Gonzalez was arrested on June 2, 2025, and later released on a $20,000 bond.
SportsGame 1: Spurs and Knicks set to open the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in San Antonio
The San Antonio Spurs will face the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in San Antonio. This marks the Knicks' ninth appearance in the finals, while the Spurs are making their seventh. The Knicks are on an impressive 11-game winning streak, having outscored opponents by 262 points, the largest margin in NBA history. Conversely, the Spurs have never lost a Game 1 in the finals, boasting a perfect 6-0 record. Both teams feature many players making their finals debuts, with Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox emphasizing the importance of maintaining their successful play style.
WeatherExcessive rain fall in the forecast through Friday
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Weather Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk for excessive rainfall across the entire Rio Grande Valley through Friday evening. This outlook is driven by a combination of sea-breeze-induced showers and thunderstorms, along with additional storm development over the Sierra Madre in México. Together, these features create the atmospheric conditions that warrant the advisory. An excessive rainfall outlook indicates an isolated potential for
Public SafetyOvernight lane, ramp closures in Mercedes: TxDOT
MERCEDES, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- Replacements on overhead signs along Interstate 2 will prompt overnight lane and ramp closures in Mercedes. The Texas Department of Transportation will begin replacing the signs on Wednesday night on the westbound Interstate 2 and Vermont Avenue. Maintenance work will prompt closures on nearby entrance and exit ramps, including a right
CommunityFirst responders gather for Blue Mass at San Juan Basilica
SAN JUAN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A mass was held at the Basilica in San Juan on Wednesday to honor the service of all first responders and pray for the ones who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The annual tradition, widely known as Blue Mass, was led by Bishop Daniel Flores of
EducationHidalgo County Judge's Office launches puppet show to educate children about hurricane preparedness
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Hidalgo County Judge's Office on Wednesday partnered up with the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and the Fire Marshal to launch "Storm Safe with Sunny", an interactive puppet show educating children about hurricane preparedness. Families gathered at the free community event at the Pharr Memorial Library to learn about hurricane
Public SafetyValley mother, daughter found guilty of attempted smuggling at Sarita checkpoint
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A federal jury on Wednesday found a Weslaco mother and her daughter guilty of attempting to smuggle a man past the Sarita checkpoint last year. Enedelia Garcia, 55, of Weslaco, and Ashley Garcia, 37, of Brownsville, face up to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors say that on July 22, 2025, the
Public SafetyDriver in custody after evading authorities in Harlingen: DPS
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A driver is in custody on Wednesday afternoon after evading authorities in Harlingen, according to a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety. Several DPS units and EMS were seen at the intersection of the Frontage Road and F. Street at about 4:14 p.m. DPS says a white BMW evaded
HealthFirst Case of Screwworm Confirmed in Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department confirmed the first case of the screwworm (NWS) in Zavala County on June 3. The sample was taken from a three-week-old calf with an umbilical injury and identified by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Iowa. This marks the first detection in Texas since the parasite began moving north from Central America in 2023. Currently, no other cases have been reported in the state. Authorities have established an infested zone and imposed animal movement restrictions. They are also accelerating the release of sterile flies to control the breeding population in the area.
EducationPSJA ISD Students Recognized for Graduating from Cybersecurity Internship Program
The Pharr City Commission recognized 13 students from PSJA ISD for completing the Methodist Healthcare Ministries Internship Program, aimed at developing future technology professionals. The students received specialized training in cybersecurity and collaborated with city technology staff on community digital literacy projects. IT Director Jose Peña highlighted their hard work, noting that one student earned an associate degree in cybersecurity from South Texas College. Each graduate received a certificate and a laptop, enhancing their readiness for further education and careers in technology. Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez expressed pride in their achievements and the future impact of their skills in cybersecurity.
NationalSpaceX's IPO is set to be the biggest ever and could make Elon Musk a trillionaire
NEW YORK (AP) — SpaceX says it plans to raise up to $75 billion when it goes public this month, setting the stage for the largest-ever stock market debut and putting Elon Musk on course to becoming the world's first trillionaire. The company, formally known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp., said Wednesday it will sell
NationalFeds Issue Final Warning to Colorado’s Jeffco Schools Over Title IX Defiance
The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has issued a warning to Jefferson County Public Schools in Colorado for non-compliance with Title IX. The district has ten days to address violations, which include allowing male students to participate in female sports and use female facilities. An investigation found that the district's policies have displaced female athletes and permitted mixed-gender overnight accommodations for students as young as 11. Despite a proposed resolution from OCR, the district has not taken action. Failure to comply may lead to the loss of federal education funding.
Public SafetyHorseshoe Bay Child Predator Named Featured Fugitive for June
Victor Ramos Jr., a 19-year-old child predator from Horseshoe Bay, has been named the Featured Fugitive for June by Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders. He is wanted in Llano County for failing to comply with sex offender registration since August 2025, following a conviction for sexual assault of a child. A warrant for his arrest was issued due to a probation violation. A reward of $4,000 is offered for information leading to his capture during June. Ramos has connections to Burnet County, including Cottonwood Shores and Marble Falls. Tips can be submitted anonymously through various methods.
Public SafetyTeen charged with murder in connection with Pharr shooting pleads not guilty
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A teen charged with murder in connection with a deadly Pharr shooting pleaded not guilty on Wednesday, according to the Hidalgo County 430th District Court. Emanuel Flores, 19, was charged with murder, a first-degree felony, in January. On Jan. 3, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Pharr police responded to a home on the
NationalWestern District of Texas Logs 350 New Immigration Cases in May
Between May 22 and May 28, federal prosecutors in the Western District of Texas initiated 350 new immigration and immigration-related criminal cases. The charges primarily target human smugglers and undocumented individuals with previous convictions for offenses such as DWI, violent crimes, and burglary. These cases were supported by various federal law enforcement agencies, including ICE and the FBI, as well as local authorities. The Western District of Texas covers 68 counties and includes major cities like San Antonio and El Paso. This effort is part of Operation Take Back America, aimed at combating illegal immigration and organized crime.
CommunityWhy Alamo’s Historic Transformation is a Must-Read Story
The City of Alamo is undergoing a significant transformation under Mayor J.R. Garza, who took office in late 2023. After decades of stagnation, Alamo is now focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and economic development, with over $100 million in projects currently underway. This revitalization aims to reshape the city’s future through strategic growth and modernization. The efforts are a collective mission involving city commissioners and municipal staff, emphasizing teamwork in advancing essential services and projects. The ongoing changes are expected to have a lasting impact on the community and the broader Rio Grande Valley.
HealthUSDA announces possible New World screwworm infection in South Texas
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on social media that a case of the New World screwworm (NWS) may have been detected in south Texas.
PoliticsMayor J.R. Garza Pushes Historic Transformation in Alamo
Mayor J.R. Garza of Alamo is spearheading significant development efforts aimed at revitalizing the city, which he describes as experiencing its most active growth period in decades. Since taking office in November 2023, Garza has prioritized infrastructure upgrades, public safety investments, and economic planning, with over $100 million in projects underway. Notable initiatives include a new public safety building, a $4 million all-inclusive park, and drainage improvements. Garza emphasizes community engagement and transparency in decision-making, aiming to attract businesses and enhance the quality of life for residents. The city’s strategic location and ongoing projects position it for sustainable growth.
PoliticsMission city leaders discussing replacing historic preservation commission
Mission city leaders are considering reviving the historic preservation commission by repealing its existing ordinance. During a workshop on Tuesday, council members agreed to discuss replacing the commission with a new appointed committee at the next city council meeting. The current commission has not met in three years and has failed to enforce preservation standards for historic buildings. Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza emphasized the need for compliance with city regulations. Local preservationist Gabriel Ozuna expressed concerns about the risks to historic sites, as Mission holds 10 of the 23 historically listed properties in Hidalgo County, including La Lomita Chapel and the Border Theater.