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SportsWeek 2: High school football Thursday highlights
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — It’s week two of high school football in the Rio Grande Valley, and Valley Sports Central has your Thursday night highlights. Our high school football coverage continues Friday in Harlingen, where our Valley Sports Central team will be closely following our Game of the Week. Harlingen High School is taking on
Business7 Brew to Bring First Drive-Thru Coffee Stand to Weslaco
7 Brew, the popular drive-thru coffee brand, is set to open its first location in Weslaco at 905 N. Texas Blvd. The coffee stand was installed this week and is anticipated to open later this year. Known for its energetic service and over 20,000 customizable drink options, 7 Brew offers a variety of beverages including coffee, smoothies, and teas. The new stand is expected to create around 50 jobs in the area as part of the brand's expansion, which includes over 850 locations nationwide. More details about the grand opening will be shared closer to the launch date.
CommunityRegister Free for the First-Ever Pharr Gateway Forum, Oct. 7th
The City of Pharr will host the inaugural Gateway Forum on October 7, 2026, from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Pharr Development & Research Center, located at 850 W. Dicker Rd. Registration is free and open to business leaders and community stakeholders interested in international trade and economic development. The event will feature panel discussions and a keynote address by Duncan Wood, focusing on cross-border commerce. Additionally, registered attendees can enjoy trolley tours of the industrial park and a Networking Mixer in the evening. For more details, visit PharrGateway.com or contact Yuri Gonzalez at (956) 310-2139.
NationalBody of a Morena Congressman Found in Mexico
A federal deputy from the ruling Morena party, Zenyazen Escobar García, was found dead in a vehicle on a highway in Veracruz on Friday. The discovery was confirmed by Veracruz's prosecutor, Lizbeth Aurelia Jiménez Aguirre, near La Gloria in Puente Nacional. Preliminary investigations indicate he suffered at least one gunshot wound to the head. Escobar García, 42, previously served as Secretary of Education and was elected to Congress in 2024. The Veracruz government announced that the Federal Attorney General's Office will take over the case to ensure a thorough investigation. Morena expressed condolences and called for clarity regarding the circumstances of his death.
Public SafetyTexas Game Wardens urge Labor Day Weekend boating safety
AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 44) - The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is reminding boaters not to leave safety at the ramp this Labor Day Weekend. With the hot temperatures, lakes, rivers and coastal waters offer a welcome place to cool off. Texas Game Wardens will be on patrol throughout the holiday weekend as Labor Day typically brings increased boating traffic across the state. Texas recorded 178
EducationTexas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen Names First Chief of Staff
Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen has appointed Cyndi Beltran as its first Chief of Staff, effective September 1, 2026. Previously the executive assistant to COO Ernest Aliseda, Beltran brings 18 years of experience in higher education administration and public health. In her new role, she will support the leadership team in advancing institutional priorities and overseeing executive operations. Beltran holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas–Pan American and is involved in various community organizations, including the Hope Family Health Center and the Edinburg Rotary Club.
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.