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PoliticsAfter being indicted, ICE officer makes his first appearance in federal court
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer who shot a Venezuelan immigrant — and allegedly lied about it — made his first appearance in federal court on Friday. ICE Deportation Officer Christian J. Castro, 52, of McAllen shot a Venezuelan man on Jan. 14, 2026, during a major immigration operation in
CommunityForever Family: Sylvia
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS Rio Grande Valley works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our Forever Family partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet Sylvia, a 16-year-old girl who is ready to be matched with her forever family. Sylvia
CommunityMcAllen Gears Up for Fiesta de Palmas October 16–18
Fiesta de Palmas returns to the McAllen Convention Center from October 16 to 18, 2026, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy three days filled with food, music, and cultural activities. The event will feature an expanded carnival with over 30 rides, live music, and interactive attractions. Notable highlights include the Beer Around the World event on October 17, benefiting Hope Family Health Center. Admission is free on October 16, with a $10 fee after 4 p.m. on the following days. The festival promises diverse entertainment, including a mariachi competition, costume contest, and artisan market.
Public SafetyNational Restaurant Association Releases New Public Safety Guide
The National Restaurant Association has introduced a new guide titled "Always Ready: Public Safety" aimed at assisting restaurant owners and staff in handling public safety incidents. This resource covers various risks, including robberies and customer conflicts, and offers actionable steps for identifying vulnerabilities, enhancing security, and training employees. The guide is structured into three phases: preparation, management, and recovery. It emphasizes the importance of having a safety plan to make informed decisions during emergencies. This publication is part of a broader series that includes guidance on various crises affecting the restaurant industry.
Public SafetyTragedy: Traveled to Orlando to Celebrate Wedding Anniversary and Dies in Hit-and-Run
ORLANDO, Florida – A couple who traveled to Orlando from Connecticut to celebrate their anniversary was involved in a traffic accident on International Drive, with the alleged perpetrator fleeing the scene. The man celebrating the anniversary with his partner died from his injuries. Nelson Carrasquillo, 29, succumbed to the crash, while his partner, Julissa Velázquez, 23, remains in critical condition. The accused of causing the accident and fleeing the scene appeared before a judge on Friday. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Carrasquillo was driving south on International Drive when another vehicle allegedly ran a red light and collided with his car. The suspect is Christopher Janiel Laureda, 19.
Public SafetyBreaking News: Fatal Accident Reported in the City of Mission
DPS spokesperson María Hernández confirmed to Telemundo 40 that three vehicles were involved in the accident and reported that one person has died. This is a developing story. We will provide updates as more details become available.
PoliticsICE Agent Pleads Not Guilty After Appearing in Texas Court
MCALLEN, Texas — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Christian Castro appeared in federal court in McAllen, Texas, on Thursday, where he was formally charged and entered a not guilty plea. Castro faces six counts for allegedly making false statements to the FBI regarding a shooting in Minnesota, where he claimed to have been attacked by three men with a broom and a shovel before firing his weapon and injuring a Venezuelan immigrant in the leg, a version that prosecutors say is contradicted by surveillance videos. After the hearing, a federal judge granted him release on a $75,000 bond with strict conditions that include surrendering his passport, continuous monitoring, and mobility restrictions allowing him to travel only to Minnesota for court appointments. His legal team emphasized that the officer voluntarily surrendered upon learning of the charges, indicating he does not pose a flight risk to authorities. Additionally, his attorneys confirmed they will formally take on Castro's defense in the parallel state case he faces in Minnesota for the same incidents. The outcome of this case is expected to define the agent's legal responsibility in both federal and state courts.
BusinessKelly Keel Named President and CEO of Texas Association of Business
Kelly Keel has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, effective October 2, 2026. Currently the executive director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Keel brings 25 years of experience in environmental regulation and infrastructure. She emphasized the importance of a unified voice for Texas employers, especially as the state faces significant economic growth. Jo Betsy Norton, chair of the TAB Board, highlighted Keel's expertise in state government and her ability to address workforce and education needs. Keel holds degrees from Texas A&M University and resides in Austin with her family.
WeatherSmall rain opportunities for the weekend
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As we head into the Labor Day holiday weekend, we are seeing some small chances for rain in the forecast. We are finally getting enough moisture back in the atmosphere to give the sea breeze something to play with each day, starting Saturday. The sea breeze would be the trigger for
Public SafetyU.S. Border Patrol Agents Rescue Eight Trapped in Rail Car
On August 30, U.S. Border Patrol agents in Del Rio rescued eight individuals trapped inside a freight train car. While inspecting a rail siding near Knippa, agents, aided by a canine, discovered the group, which included one child, locked inside with no way to escape. The individuals comprised three Mexicans, three Salvadorans, one Guatemalan, and one Chinese national. They were evaluated medically and taken to the Uvalde Station for processing. Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Anthony Good emphasized the dangers posed by smugglers, particularly in extreme heat conditions, urging anyone in distress to call 911.
NationalLindsay Clancy murder trial ends in hung jury, defense demands stay of mistrial declaration
The judge in the Lindsay Clancy murder case has declared a mistrial after jurors were unable to reach a unanimous verdict.
Public SafetyApplying for VA Benefits? Here Are the Scams You Should Avoid
Veterans and military personnel nearing retirement from the Armed Forces should be vigilant against scammers looking to take advantage of those applying for benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, known as the VA. The Federal Trade Commission warns about unexpected calls, text messages, or emails from individuals wanting to discuss veteran benefits. Scammers may claim to work for the VA or to be authorized by the agency. They may also offer assistance in applying for benefits that a person qualifies for but is not receiving, obtaining a 100% disability rating, or expediting the claims process, all for a fee. The VA never charges for applying for benefits. Accredited representatives and legitimate veteran service organizations also do not charge for submitting an application.
NationalWhat a Mistrial Means for Lindsay Clancy
The judge in Lindsay Clancy's trial announced he would declare a mistrial on Friday, only to suddenly change his mind and grant her defense attorney an hour to appeal. Judge William Sullivan's surprising decision came after he revealed in court that the jury—now deliberating for seven days—had sent a third note indicating they could not reach a unanimous decision on whether the Massachusetts mother is criminally responsible for the deaths of her three young children in 2023. 'I am going to declare a mistrial at this moment,' Sullivan said before the defense requested a stay of that declaration. Clancy showed no visible reaction at the defense table. The trial has garnered significant interest for over a month, deeply dividing public opinion and focusing attention on issues related to maternal mental health after childbirth. Clancy's attorney claimed she suffered from a rare disorder known as postpartum psychosis when she strangled her children— the youngest being just 8 months old—and subsequently attempted to take her own life.
NationalBuild the Wall and Stop Migrants: White House Launches 5 Video Games on Its Website
On Thursday, the White House website unveiled an Arcade section, featuring a collection of five low-resolution video games that promote various aspects of President Donald Trump's agenda. 'Build the Wall' is a version of 'Tetris' that transforms the classic game into an effort to 'protect the border from the approaching horde.' In 'Rio Run,' reminiscent of the old mobile favorite 'Snake,' an icon resembling Trump runs back and forth while gathering people attempting to cross the border. In 'Supply Line,' which looks like a condensed version of the game 'Tapper,' food moves along an assembly line, and players must reject products that do not meet the 'Make America Healthy Again' standards. Two of the games take place in the skies above the nation's capital. In 'Flappy Bill,' an eagle carries a bill through the National Mall monument complex.
NationalWhere Does the Meat Imported by the U.S. to Lower Prices Come From? Trump Weighs In
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the extraordinary quota of 300,000 tons of imported beef aimed at reducing prices in the U.S. comes from Argentina and Brazil. Until now, the U.S. government had not identified which countries would supply the additional volume of meat, which is intended to be mixed with American beef for hamburger preparation over a 90-day window. 'It's coming from Argentina and it's coming from Brazil,' Trump responded when asked by reporters at the White House during an event where he signed an executive order allowing ranch owners to also process meat; a clear nod to the agricultural sector dissatisfied with the duty-free importation of foreign meat. The extraordinary measure, included in a presidential proclamation Trump signed on August 26, allows for the importation of 300,000 tons of fresh or frozen lean cuts between September 1 and November 30, and according to the president, will lower ground beef prices by 25%. The Department of Agriculture explained that this temporary importation aims to compensate for the partial closure of the border to live Mexican cattle, which remains in place due to the pest of the corn borer.
Public SafetyJury Fails to Reach Consensus, Declares Mistrial in Lindsay Clancy Case
The trial of Lindsay Clancy, a Massachusetts mother accused of murdering her three children, ended in a mistrial after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict. Clancy, who strangled her children—Cora, 5; Dawson, 3; and Callan, 8 months—before attempting suicide, faced three murder charges. Her defense argued she was not criminally responsible due to bipolar disorder and postpartum psychosis. After seven days of deliberation, the jury, consisting of nine women and three men, reported being deadlocked multiple times. The judge announced plans to declare a mistrial, but the defense requested an emergency stay before the jury returned to the courtroom.
NationalTrump says Mexico only offers the U.S. 'spicy tamales and tomatoes'
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Mexico has nothing to offer the United States except for 'spicy tamales and tomatoes.' However, he clarified that he does not intend to disrupt the trade relationship because he gets along 'very well' with his Mexican counterpart, Claudia Sheinbaum. Trump made these comments while responding to questions from reporters in the Oval Office regarding his threat to cut trade with countries that maintain a trade surplus with the U.S. He emphasized that the U.S. has all the necessary resources, saying, 'We have oil, we have everything.' Trump also praised his good relationship with Sheinbaum and expressed his intention to maintain historical trade ties with Mexico. He referred to the tensions between the U.S. and Canada, exacerbated by the breakdown of bilateral trade talks and the imposition of U.S. tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, which Ottawa plans to respond to with similar tariffs next week. This situation raises questions about the future of the USMCA trade agreement signed by the three North American countries in 2018. Last Tuesday, Sheinbaum stated that despite the challenges in the relationship with Washington, she is hopeful for an 'understanding' in security and trade areas. The most recent round of USMCA review talks took place in July in Mexico City, where trade representatives from both nations discussed tariffs on the automotive industry, steel, aluminum, agriculture, and economic security. Following that meeting, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard agreed to continue discussions in September.
NationalMiracle in Nepal: Two Workers Rescued Alive After 9 Days Trapped in Tunnel
In Kathmandu, Nepal, two workers were rescued alive from the Trishuli 3A hydroelectric project tunnel on Friday, nine days after devastating floods struck the region. The survivors, Sanjay Sah and Kabir Maharjan, were located approximately 170 meters inside the tunnel. Rescue teams had previously heard voices, prompting intensified efforts. Communication was briefly established, with rescuers assuring those trapped that help was on the way. The floods, which occurred on August 26, resulted in at least 1,287 deaths and left over 5,000 missing. Damage from the disaster is estimated at around $2.5 billion.
NationalDiesel Prices Hit Record High in the U.S.; How Could It Impact Your Wallet?
Diesel prices in the U.S. hit a record high of $5.85 per gallon, driven by ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, which have disrupted global fuel supplies. This increase is expected to raise transportation costs for a wide range of everyday products, impacting consumers as businesses may pass on these costs through higher prices. Grocery items, particularly perishables like fruits, vegetables, and meats, could see immediate price hikes. Regular gasoline prices also rose to an average of $4.15 per gallon, up from $3.20 last year, marking a significant increase as the Labor Day holiday approaches.
Public SafetyThreats and Demands for Money Preceded the Murder of Camilo Séptimo Musician
Omar García Harfuch, the Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection, acknowledged that there was a prior relationship, which he described as 'commercial,' between Jonathan Meléndez, a musician from Camilo Séptimo, and the alleged perpetrator of the multiple homicide that occurred on September 1 in central State of Mexico. 'He had a commercial relationship, so to speak, or a certain partnership with the family member (Meléndez),' García Harfuch stated during a presidential conference held this Friday in Zacatecas. The official confirmed that there were also economic demands and threats against Meléndez before the crime. 'What is a fact is that money was being demanded; there was a demand, there were certain threats, and this unfortunate multiple homicide was committed,' he asserted. García Harfuch noted that he does not know the amount demanded and clarified that the Attorney General's Office of the State of Mexico (Fgjem) requested to reserve part of the information in this case until the first hearing to avoid affecting the judicial process. He also explained that federal authorities communicated with state prosecutor José Luis Cervantes and state security secretary Pablo Vázquez, highlighting that the detainees were captured in less than 12 hours. The secretary assured that the main suspect identified by the investigations is in custody and that another person may have collaborated with him, although the Prosecutor's Office continues to explore leads to determine if more individuals were involved. He indicated that the main suspect might have a criminal record but referred to the Prosecutor's Office for precise information. The multiple homicide occurred on September 1 in an apartment in Atizapán de Zaragoza, on the outskirts of Mexico City. Meléndez, 38, was killed along with his pregnant wife, their three-year-old daughter, and a domestic worker, while one of the musician's sons, aged six, was found alive. Authorities arrested Diego Sebastián 'N,' identified by the Prosecutor's Office as the musician's partner and probable author of the crime, and Gerardo 'N,' noted for his possible involvement. Meanwhile, Secretary of the Interior Rosa Icela Rodríguez explained that the Government of the State of Mexico is leading support for the families through the state victims' commission, the System for the Comprehensive Development of the Family (DIF), and the Child Protection Agency. 'There is outreach to the family, and dialogue will continue to provide all the necessary support,' Rodríguez affirmed. She added that the federal government is also in contact with state authorities and is willing to intervene if necessary, by instruction of President Claudia Sheinbaum, who offered federal assistance since Thursday.