Six bodies found at a Laredo rail yard in a heat-smuggling probe; Texas in focus again amid border and safety concerns. Texas: second-largest U.S. state, borders Mexico.
Since March, Republican leaders have been recalibrating immigration messaging after public backlash to aggressive enforcement and two fatal agent shootings in Minnesota. President Trump has replaced DHS secretary Kristi Noem with Senator Markwayne Mullin and is narrowing enforcement rhetoric toward violent criminals, while hardline allies are lobbying to restore mass-deportation plans.
The 2026 allergy report ranks Boise as the worst city for pollen allergies, driven by climate change and weather patterns. Early spring symptoms are affecting many, with Western cities experiencing longer, more intense pollen seasons due to warmer temperatures and drought. Experts advise early treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Recent reports highlight increasing parental refusal of routine newborn vaccines, such as vitamin K and hepatitis B, driven by anti-science sentiment. This trend risks higher preventable disease rates, despite evidence that vaccines are safe and effective. The trend reflects growing mistrust in medical advice and misinformation spread via social media.
The US Supreme Court has upheld a ruling preventing DNA testing in the case of death row inmate Mr. Reed, convicted of the 1996 murder of Stacey Stites. The decision leaves unresolved questions about his innocence, despite ongoing calls for testing that could exonerate him.
A large explosion occurred at the Valero refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, causing smoke and shaking homes. No injuries were reported. Residents were advised to stay indoors as emergency services responded. The incident coincides with rising gas prices linked to global oil supply concerns.
Texas Republican lawmakers are being urged by Stephen Miller, a Trump ally, to pass legislation restricting public education funding to children of those 'lawfully present' in the US. This challenges Supreme Court precedent and reflects ongoing partisan debates over immigration policy in the state.
The New World screwworm fly has spread north through Mexico, reaching two Mexican states bordering Texas. Control efforts are resuming after a breakdown in eradication programs, with potential costs exceeding US$700 million annually if it invades the US. New funding aims to restore sterile insect techniques to prevent a costly outbreak.
Bruce Blakeman advocates for resuming fracking in New York to boost jobs and lower energy costs, opposing Governor Hochul's environmental restrictions. Meanwhile, the Biden administration faces political and industry pushback on clean energy policies amid broader debates on energy independence and climate strategies.
Wall Street's record profits in 2025 led to high bonuses, but a shortfall in tax revenue is emerging. The city faces a $5.4 billion budget gap, with projections indicating bonuses may fall short of expectations, impacting city finances and political debates over wealth taxes.
Raw Farm of Fresno, California, is voluntarily recalling over 170,000 pounds of raw milk cheddar cheese due to E. coli concerns linked to an outbreak that has sickened nine people across three states, including young children. The farm denies the connection and refuses a recall, raising ongoing safety and regulatory questions.
The annual conservative conference CPAC in Texas saw notable absences, including Donald Trump, amid shifting dynamics within the Republican Party. Discussions focus on future leadership, Iran, and the party’s direction post-Trump, with new figures like Liz Truss making appearances and debates about the party's ideological future.
CPAC 2026 revealed deep divisions within the conservative movement, with debates over foreign policy, party loyalty, and antisemitism. Speakers challenged Trump-era unity, highlighting fractures over Iran, Israel, and internal party loyalty, as the GOP prepares for upcoming elections.
Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of Iran’s last shah, spoke at CPAC in Texas, urging the US to support regime change in Iran. He advocates for a democratic transition, aligning with hawkish US and Israeli policies amid ongoing conflict and strikes against Iran. His speech received strong support from conservative audiences.
A mother in the US received a $5,185 phone bill after her daughter unknowingly made international calls on Roblox. Reddit users suggested solutions like blocking international calls or negotiating with the provider. The story highlights online safety and billing issues for parents today.
A 15-year-old student at Hill Country College Prep in Bulverde shot a teacher and then died from a self-inflicted gunshot. The teacher was hospitalized; the student died at the scene. The school was placed on lockdown, and students were moved to a nearby middle school. Authorities are investigating the motive, with electronic devices seized from the student's home.
South Carolina defeated UCLA 62-48 in the women's NCAA basketball final, ending UCLA's first appearance in the championship game. The Gamecocks' strong defense and rebounding led to their third title in five seasons, with key performances from Joyce Edwards and Madina Okot. UCLA's Betts and guard rotation struggled against South Carolina's physical defense.
Ron Gibson, an Indianapolis councilman, was targeted in a shooting at his home, where 13 rounds were fired near his front door. The incident follows his support for a local data center project, amid rising opposition and threats linked to data center development and environmental concerns.
Multiple US states have announced partnerships with Turning Point USA, promoting school chapters and religious content in public education. These moves have sparked debate over free speech, religious influence, and educational neutrality amid ongoing legal and political tensions. The story is current as of Saturday, 18 April 2026.
Multiple sightings across the US have confirmed a bright green meteor fireball, which has been captured on video and reported by hundreds of witnesses. The meteor disintegrated over the East Coast, prompting social media reactions and reports of loud booms. NASA has confirmed the event's trajectory and timing today.
Tony Cavallaro, who kept a 12-foot alligator named Albert as an emotional support animal for over 30 years, has ended his legal battle after the animal was seized by authorities in 2024. The case highlights issues around exotic pet ownership and regulation.
Since the Iran war began in February 2026, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have driven global fossil fuel prices higher and exposed vulnerabilities in energy supply. Europe is accelerating plans to reduce fossil fuel dependence, while China has solidified its dominance in renewable energy manufacturing, exporting record volumes of solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles. This shift is reshaping global energy geopolitics.
Daniel Moreno-Gama, 20, has been charged with attempted murder and arson after throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's San Francisco home and threatening to burn down OpenAI's headquarters. Moreno-Gama traveled from Texas, carried an anti-AI manifesto with threats against Altman, and faces federal and state charges that could lead to life imprisonment. No injuries have been reported.
7-Eleven's North American operator has announced plans to close 645 stores in 2026, surpassing the 205 openings forecast. The closures include conversions to wholesale fuel stores, as the company shifts focus toward food and delivery services amid economic pressures and changing consumer habits.
The NOIRLab has released a detailed image of the sombrero galaxy, revealing its extensive stellar halo and star streams from past collisions. Meanwhile, astronomers have observed interstellar comet C/2025 R3 Pan-STARRS, which is passing through the solar system for the first time in 170,000 years, and the upcoming Lyrid meteor shower is expected to peak tonight, offering spectacular skywatching opportunities.
QVC Group has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S., citing declining sales and high debt. The company aims to emerge within 90 days, but warns that its financial situation remains uncertain as it struggles to adapt to changing consumer habits and increased competition.
Andres Zapata has been sentenced in Austin, Texas, to time served after cooperating in a decade-long investigation. The inquiry implicates misconduct among several agents, with Zapata’s cooperation revealing allegations of misconduct, misconduct, and illegal activities involving law enforcement officials. Zapata was extradited from Colombia and has paid restitution for tax-related charges.
A man has been charged with attempting to kill OpenAI CEO Sam Altman by throwing a Molotov cocktail at his home and trying to set the headquarters on fire. The suspect, from Texas, is facing federal and state charges amid rising tensions over AI safety and activism. The attack follows increased threats and protests against AI leaders.
Tanner Horner has pleaded guilty to kidnapping and murdering 7-year-old Athena Strand in Texas. Court footage shows him cleaning his vehicle after the crime, with prosecutors seeking the death penalty. The jury is now deciding his fate, with emotional scenes in court today.
The US government has implemented new policies to accelerate research and development of psychedelics, including psilocybin, MDMA, and ibogaine. The move involves FDA fast-tracking and funding for state-level studies, aiming to improve treatments for mental health and addiction. This follows recent political and scientific developments.
Oil prices remain elevated amid ongoing Iran‑related disruption, while markets price in a potential ceasefire. Banks warn long‑run inflation could drift lower on AI‑driven disinflation, but near‑term pressures keep the Fed and other central banks in a tighter stance. Investors are reassessing energy supply risk and policy outlook.
Recent analyses rank Washington, D.C. and Omaha as the top US cities for recent college graduates, citing affordability, strong job markets, and quality of life. Major coastal cities like New York and Los Angeles fail to make the list due to high living costs. The rankings are based on 13 indicators including housing, earnings, and work-life balance. Today’s date is Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:18:13 +0100.
Agriculture authorities have identified the Asian jumping worm as an invasive species spreading across multiple states, including California. The worms damage soil, harm plant roots, and may threaten native wildlife. Officials emphasize prevention, as there are no effective control methods once established. The spread raises concerns about drought and ecosystem disruption.
The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Texas law allowing the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. The ruling reverses a lower court decision, citing no violation of the First Amendment, and sets the stage for a potential Supreme Court review. Critics oppose the law, arguing it breaches separation of church and state.
Mexico's president has stated that US agents were not present during a weekend operation against clandestine drug labs in northern Chihuahua, after the CIA's involvement was confirmed to AP. The incident killed two Mexican investigators and raised questions about US participation and sovereignty. The government says it will pursue clarity and has contacted the US ambassador for information.
Measles outbreaks have ended in parts of the U.S. after a surge in vaccination efforts, but national numbers remain high and vaccination coverage has not reached the 95% threshold. Authorities warn the elimination status remains at risk amid rising cases and policy shifts affecting vaccine confidence.
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Texas’ Ten Commandments display in public schools, ruling it does not violate students’ or parents’ rights. The decision reinforces similar laws in Louisiana and Alabama and comes as debates over religion in classrooms intensify, with several states proposing or expanding displays and Bible-related curricula.
The Republican Party's main committees and allied groups have built a $600 million cash advantage over Democrats, with $843.6 million compared to $243 million. This financial edge could give Republicans a significant advantage in midterm campaign spending, driven by the GOP's fundraising strength and the Trump super PAC's large war chest.
Rail workers have found six people dead inside a Union Pacific boxcar at a train yard in Laredo, Texas, on Sunday afternoon. Laredo police have confirmed six fatalities — five men and one woman — and have said autopsies will be done; authorities have not released identities or a cause of death. An investigation is ongoing.
The Texas Camp Mystic owners have informed regulators they are withdrawing their application for a 2026 summer license as investigations continue into flood-evacuation failures that killed 25 campers last July. Regulators have issued a deficiency-letter and are reviewing emergency plans before any reopening can occur.
Keyshun Jones has been arrested for allegedly refunding fake mac & cheese orders to his own cards, netting more than $80,000. Investigators say he repeatedly returned to a Grapevine restaurant after being fired, creating about 800 fraudulent orders before authorities apprehended him in April 2026. He faces multiple felony counts including property theft, money laundering and evading arrest.
NYU has launched NYU IRL to encourage real-world social interaction. More than 200 students recently joined an expansive dinner across a city block to connect with strangers, reflecting colleges’ attempts to combat online-first college culture.
Authorities say a 69-year-old man has been charged in two shootings at K Towne Plaza and an adjacent apartment complex in Koreatown, Carrollton, Texas. Investigators indicate the victims knew the attacker and the incident involved a business-related dispute. The suspect has been detained and is being held in Denton County Jail as of today.
Three deaths have been reported from hantavirus linked to the MV Hondius; several states are monitoring residents who recently disembarked the ship. Health officials say the immediate public risk remains very low as investigations continue and evacuations are underway.
States are widening efforts to block proposed utility rate increases and rethink financing for major upgrades, citing how AI data centers are driving energy demand and bills. In Texas, Hill County has paused data-center development to study effects, while other states weigh similar actions amid affordability concerns.
Investigators have identified a potential seventh body connected to a federal smuggling case in the Laredo region. Earlier this month, six bodies were found in a shipping container on a Union Pacific train that had departed Long Beach, California. The Webb County medical examiner has ruled hyperthermia as the cause of death and authorities are pursuing updates in the investigation.
All-Republican Texas Supreme Court has refused Governor Abbott’s attempt to use the quorum break by Democratic lawmakers to block or reverse the redistricting maps; the court says the issue was resolved without judicial intervention as lawmakers returned and the maps were passed into law.
The U.S. Department of Justice has coordinated with Texas authorities to secure a $10 million settlement from Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. The hospital has allegedly billed Medicaid for gender-affirming treatments restricted by state law. As part of the agreement, the hospital will fire five doctors, revoke their privileges, amend bylaws, and establish a no-charge detransition clinic for five years.
California's Fair Political Practices Commission has opened a probe into Steyer's hiring of Gen Z creators for the governor race, examining whether payments were properly disclosed. The investigation follows reports that some influencers did not reveal sponsorships and that payments may have been funneled through agencies. Campaign says disclosures are public and compliant.
Rashee Rice has been ordered to serve 30 days in jail after testing positive for THC, in addition to existing probation terms linked to a 2024 Dallas highway crash. He is set for release on June 16 and will miss team activities during the jail term and upcoming minicamps.