EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Carmaker Stellantis is recalling more than 1.2 million Ram vehicles due to issues with their brake systems.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ram 1500 pickup trucks from model years 2019 to 2024 have a software malfunction in the anti-lock brake system.

Stellantis says it does not know if any injuries or accidents caused by the recall.

Drivers can take their vehicle to the dealer to fix the issue free of charge.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- According to El Paso Police Department, one person suffered minor injuries in a fiery motorcycle crash on Friday night.

Video from FitFam El Paso on social media showed the motorcycle on fire around 10:30 p.m. Friday.

The crash happened on I-10 and Westmoreland Dr.

TxDot traffic cameras showed multiple first responders on scene in response.

Officials said they had to close the highway temporarily.

A parked police unit diverting traffic was struck in a separate incident while responding to the scene, but no injuries resulted from that crash.

The post Fiery motorcycle crash stops traffic on I-10 overnight appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- In an ongoing effort to monitor what he calls "Election Integrity", Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the Bexar County Commissioners Court "after it voted to enact an unlawful program that would mass-mail voter registration applications to residents regardless of whether those residents have requested such an application or are even eligible to vote," according to a press release this morning.

The announcement of this lawsuit comes just a day after the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) held a press conference in El Paso opposing Paxton's efforts, which included executing search warrants in multiple counties following a two-year investigation into alleged election fraud and vote harvesting in 2022.

El Paso Congresswoman Veronica Escobar will hold a virtual press call today along with other representatives from the Texas Democratic Delegation "urging the Department of Justice to investigate any potential civil rights violations by TX AG Ken Paxton against Latino organizers and volunteers and take any necessary action to prevent further interference with the rights of Latino voters in the state of Texas," according to yesterday's press release.

ABC-7 will bring you updated information on the lawsuit and reaction from local representatives both on-air and online.

The post Texas Attorney General sues Bexar County over mailing voter registration forms, Congresswoman Escobar to discuss later today appeared first on KVIA.

Update: Just after 2 p.m. today, El Paso Congresswoman Veronica Escobar announced that she and other representatives of the Texas Democratic Delegation "will hold a virtual press call urging the Department of Justice to investigate any potential civil rights violations by TX AG Ken Paxton against Latino organizers and volunteers and take any necessary action to prevent further interference with the rights of Latino voters in the state of Texas," according to a press release.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) will hold a press conference outside the El Paso County Courthouse at noon today to discuss what they call "official oppression" of voters by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Last week, Governor Greg Abbott announced that more than one million ineligible voters were removed from Texas' voter rolls.

Attorney General Paxton's Election Integrity Unit executed search warrants in multiple counties following a two-year investigation into alleged election fraud and vote harvesting in 2022.

LULAC believes these efforts unfairly target minorities, as well as elderly individuals, saying Paxton "is using this big lie to order and carry out illegal and unconstitutional searches of innocent senior voters," according to a news release.

ABC-7 will stream today's press conference live and provide further coverage in our newscasts at 4, 5 and 6 p.m. Watch the livestream above.

The post LULAC speaking in El Paso on Texas A.G. Paxton and ‘voter suppression’ appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Ahead of Labor Day, gas prices across Texas have dropped to $2.95 per gallon on average for regular unleaded fuel, per the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch.

The average dropped four cents from last week and 46 cents less per gallon compared to last year.

Of the state's major metropolitan areas, El Paso has the highest average price at $3.39 per gallon.

Drivers in Lubbock have the lowest average price for a major metro area at $2.78 per gallon.

The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $3.36, which is three cents less compared to this day last week and 46 cents less per gallon when compared to this day last year.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- August 31 is recognized as International Overdose Awareness Day.

The El Paso Harm Reduction Alliance will host a community event this evening to raise awareness about prevention and honor those who lost their lives to overdose.

The evening’s events will include:

· Educational Workshops: Experts will provide information on overdose prevention, recognizing the signs of an overdose, and how to respond in emergency situations.

· Naloxone Training: Free naloxone kits will be distributed, along with training on how to use this life-saving medication.

· Remembrance Ceremony: A candlelight vigil will be held to honor those who have lost their lives to overdose.

· Resources: Local organizations will offer support services and resources for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

· Die-In: Participants will simulate the tragic reality of overdose deaths to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of prevention and action.

· Speakers: Notable speakers, including District 2 candidate Veronica Carbajal, will share their insights and experiences.

The events will take place at Memorial Park (1701 N Copia St.) from 7 PM to 9 PM.

All activities are free and open to the public.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The case is closed on the Canutillo man who murdered his sister in 2022, El Paso County District Attorney Bill Hicks announced today.

On February 2, 2022, Jose Manuel Guzman murdered his estranged sister, who became his lover, out of suspicion that she was romantically involved with another man.

Karla Marciela Marroquin Chavez de Ortiz was given up for adoption at birth. She grew up in Guatemala, and Guzman later smuggled her into the United States, along with her 12-year-old daughter and 18-year-old son, according to Hicks.

Guzman, Marroquin and the children lived in an apartment near Guzman's mother - Marroquin's birth mother - in Canutillo.

A romantic relationship between the two developed, before Guzman suspected Marroquin of seeing another individual. He then beat her to death using a baseball bat and a large handheld massager.

Guzman's ex-girlfriend, who says she was with him from approximately 2016 to 2018, spoke to ABC-7 and asked to remain anonymous for her own safety. She said she too was a victim of his violence.

"He started punching me closed fist. At the time I was very small, pretty petite, so it was pretty hard to fight off a muscular guy," the ex-girlfriend said. "The next day, (Guzman) apologized, made it seem like there was nothing, of course, like every toxic relationship. He said he loved me. He didn't want to lose me. I believed it."

She also said Guzman's family did nothing to stop his behavior.

"I currently have a friend that's very involved with talking to Jose still, and she had claimed to me as well that his family protects him a lot and that he, that they don't think anything that he did was wrong."

District Attorney Hicks noted that negotiating a plea deal allowed the state to control the outcome of the case, so they could ensure that justice was served.

The post Jose Manuel Guzman to serve 38 years in prison for murdering sister appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Parents at North Loop Elementary School in the Lower Valley are frustrated with the school's administration after the parents said a student discharged pepper spray at other students last week.

Gustavo Contreras said his daughter witnessed the incident and was called to the principal's office to discuss it.

However, Contreras said neither he nor his wife received any notification from the school about the incident. They only became aware when their daughter mentioned it after school.

Contreras said his wife contacted the school's assistant principal. Contreras said the assistant principal responded and said an incident had occurred, that all district procedures were followed, and that all appropriate parties were contacted.

The district sent ABC-7 the following statement regarding the incident.

"Last Friday, North Loop International School administration was notified that a student discharged pepper spray at another student at the end of an outdoor P.E. class. Both the school nurse and administrators immediately isolated and evaluated the affected student for signs of discomfort, provided medical care to the student, and notified the student’s parent. In addition, the pepper spray was confiscated; security camera footage was reviewed; parents of students involved in the incident were notified; and appropriate disciplinary action was taken in accordance with the district’s Student Code of Conduct, which can be viewed on our website at www.yisd.net. We want to assure everyone that safety is our No. 1 priority, and Ysleta ISD takes every precaution to ensure the security of students and staff on our campuses."

Tracy Garcia-Ramirez
 YISD Director of Communications

ABC-7 contacted the Ysleta Independent School District to confirm the incident and examine the district procedures, but we have not yet received a response.

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Update: "The incident on railroad is consistent with a suicide," an EPPD spokesperson explained Tuesday afternoon. "The investigation continues... no further information is available."

Update: Police say they found a dead person and Crimes Against Persons is continuing to investigate.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso Police Crimes Against Persons detectives are on the scene of an "unknown problem." That is how police officials are currently describing the situation, which is occurring on the 10500 block of Railroad in Northeast El Paso.

The situation was first called into 911 at 9:03 AM today. Police say no other information is currently available.

ABC-7 has a crew going to the scene right now.

The post Detectives investigating death in Northeast El Paso appeared first on KVIA.

Update: El Paso County Commissioners unanimously approved the "No-New-Revenue" County tax rate for Fiscal Year 2025 of $0.426323 per $100 of home valuation. That's about 7% lower than the previous year's tax rate, while bringing in the same amount of property tax revenue for the county.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The El Paso County Hospital District will lower it's property tax rate for the next year, following a unanimous vote by County Commissioners.

Commissioners approved the "No-New-Revenue" county hospital district tax rate of $0.219526 per $100 of assessed property valuation. That is a roughly 7% drop from the previous year's rate. "No-New-Revenue" means that that property tax rate will bring in the same amount of revenue as the previous tax year to the taxing entity's budget.

In regard to the County tax rate, Commissioner David Stout wrote a guest column in the El Paso Times, acknowledging the increase in property values for El Paso homeowners, later stating "the county has been responsible in managing your money, and has set us up for a financially sustainable future."

Commissioners continue to discuss the options for the Fiscal Year 2025 tax rate, and a vote is expected to take place shortly.

The post El Paso County Commissioners approve UMC tax rate, select no-new-revenue tax rate for County appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- This morning, Ascarate Park hosts the annual Eagle in the Sun Triathalon, which features a 400m swim, 12-mile bike ride, and 5k run at Ascarate Pool.

This year's event hosts athletes from across Texas and New Mexico, as well as Arizona, Colorado, Rhode Island, Alabama, California, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Tennessee, Chihuahua, Coahuila and Mexico City.

Those competing in the triathlon range from ages 9 to 80.

The race began at 7 a.m. and the event will conclude around 10 a.m. with an awards ceremony.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Educators in the Socorro Independent School District will participate in a districtwide callout event from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. today at the SISD Technology Services Center.

The SISD principals, assistant principals, counselors and teachers will personally make phone calls to former students who have not re-enrolled in school, inviting them to return and complete their education.

The callout is the first step in the district's annual outreach program, Walk for Success.

The program aims to reach out to students and their parents, providing information about the opportunities available in SISD and offering guidance on the re-enrollment process.

“Sometimes students experience life challenges that discourage them from pursuing a high school diploma,” SISD Director of Attendance Angelica Hernandez said. “Our role as educators is to identify barriers students may encounter and motivate, encourage, and support them to overcome challenges.”

On Sept. 14, more than 350 administrators, counselors and teachers will visit students’ homes in the district’s neighborhoods in an extra attempt to connect with students and their parents who they were not able to connect with during the callout event.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- This Monday, El Paso County commissioners authorized a University Medical Center (UMC) bond and five propositions for the County Quality of Life bond, all of which will appear on the November Ballot.

The UMC bond totals $396.6 million and would expand the number of hospital bed and operating room capacity. The bond would also build six new care centers in the community as well as a burn center.

For El Paso county residents with a taxable home value of around $200,000, the UMC bond would add about $70 a year to their property tax bill.

The county's quality of life bond is broken down into five propositions: parks and recreation, a new Medical Examiner office, upgrades to the courthouse and its annexes, renovation of the County Coliseum and a new animal shelter.

The $323.8 million bond would cost that same representative homeowner just over $60 a year.

"We want to make sure that we're being as transparent as possible, and people understand exactly what they're voting on," Precinct 2 Commissioner David Stout said. I think that if we package it all into one, it would be more difficult for them to understand."

In total, the UMC bond and all five propositions add up to over $720 million, which would mean over 130 dollars in additional property taxes per homeowner with a $200,000 home.

The post Proposed County bonds could increase property taxes more than $100 on average home appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- This Monday, El Paso County Commissioners voted to put two bond measures on the November ballot.

The post Proposed county bonds could increase homeowner taxes over $130 per year, according to estimates appeared first on KVIA.

Update: The City of El Paso just announced that it is appealing the ruling on the Environmental Franchise Fee.

"The City will be asking the 8th Court of Appeals to review the outcome of the 384th District Court’s recent ruling," a city spokesperson explained.

The spokesperson adds that the city is optimistic the court will uphold the city's fee.

"As a home rule city, El Paso has historically implemented franchise fees to address the wear and tear caused by utility on our streets," the spokesperson explained. "Studies have demonstrated that large vehicles, such as those used by our Environmental Services Department for garbage collection, inflict significant damage to roadways."

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Honorable Patrick Garcia of the 384th Judicial District ruled in favor of former state and city representative Joe Pickett in his legal battle with the City of El Paso over a franchise fee on El Pasoans' water bills.

"Based on the evidence presented by a preponderance of the evidence, the franchise fee is unconstitutional and should be discontinued," Garcia wrote in his findings of fact and conclusions of law.

He added, "the franchise fee constitutes an impermissible tax, is an unconstitutional taking, and/or is not authorized by law The ordinance is invalid as written and has not been followed by [the] defendant."

This ruling follows a legal battle between Pickett and the city dating back to October 2020 after he did not receive a response to his questions from city officials earlier that year.

Pickett said he was "elated" with the outcome, but expects the city to appeal the decision.

"It's been four years of my life, my time, my expense on behalf of everybody in El Paso. A lot of people don't realize that this suit means $6 a month to me," Pickett added. "This is not a personal injury. This isn't an accident case. I don't get $1 million. I don't get ten, I don't get anything that anybody else doesn't get out of this."

ABC-7 reached out to the City of El Paso for comment, but has not yet received a response.

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Update: Just after noon Tuesday, El Paso City Council voted 5-3 to approve sending the funding for the Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Facility, also known as the Multipurpose Center or MPC, back to the voters to decide.

City Reps. Kennedy, Molinar, Fierro, Rivera and Canales voted in favor of sending the authority to issue the remaining bonds for the project to voters in November. Voting against were City Reps. Acevedo, Hernandez, and Salcido.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso City Council will decide today whether or not voters should determine the future of a proposed multipurpose facility.

The Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Facility project was approved by voters 12 years ago as a part of the 2012 Quality of Life Bond. Officials said the multipurpose center is the only remaining project from that package for which there are bonds that have not yet been sold or delivered.

Mayor Oscar Leeser, as well as representatives Isabel Salcido and Chris Canales, made remarks in favor of allowing the public to vote.

Representative Cassandra Hernandez said that it would be a "missed opportunity" not to continue the project, adding that when an investment is made in the community, the community is uplifted.

When voters approved the multipurpose center in the November 2012 election, the estimated cost of the center was about $180 million, according to City Representative for District 8, Chris Canales.

Today, Mayor Leeser said the project would cost much more if it were done today.

As of 11:55 a.m., the city council is still discussing the matter and has not yet made a decision.

The post El Paso City Council approves sending Multipurpose Center funding back to voters appeared first on KVIA.

Update: County Commissioners also voted to put the El Paso County Capital Improvement Program Project on the November ballot.

"In September, a series of informational meetings will take place throughout the County outlining each proposition and related projects," a county spokesperson explained after the vote.

The bond costs $323.8 million, according to the county. That money will go towards the following departments: Parks & Recreation, New Office of Medical Examiner, County Subcourthouses (Annexes), County Coliseum Renovation & Modernization, and a New Animal Welfare Shelter.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso County Commissioners voted unanimously to pass a measure adding a multimillion dollar bond benefiting University Medical Center to November's ballot.

The UMC bond is projected to cost $396.6 million. The bond would improve bed capacity at the hospital, build senior focused clinics, and develop in-town cancer care. The bond would also improve imaging technology, laboratory services, and operating rooms.

The UMC bond would cost taxpayers an extra $5.79 a month on average, according to county officials.

The post El Paso County Commissioners vote to put UMC, capital improvement bonds on the November ballot appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- An immigrant advocacy center in El Paso raised concerns about Gov. Greg Abbott's Executive Order GA 46 relating to the collection of information by Texas public hospitals.

"Texans should not have to shoulder the burden of financially supporting medical care for illegal immigrants," Abbott said in a statement.

"Texas will hold the Biden-Harris Administration accountable for the consequences of their open border policies, and we will fight to ensure that they pay back Texas for their costly and dangerous policies.”

Marisa Limón Garza, the Executive Director of Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center based in El Paso, released a statement last night in response to the Executive Order.

"Once again, Governor Abbott is weaponizing public institutions to enforce cruelty against immigrant families. This is part of a larger pattern of xenophobia and racial discrimination that we must call out," Limón Garza said.

"Instead of taking steps to improve access to adequate healthcare for all Texans, Abbott is wasting time and resources by directing medical staff to focus on the status of the person in their care, proving once again that the governor is comfortable scapegoating migrants for failed public services across Texas.”

University Medical Center of El Paso, one of the hospitals affected by the order, issued a brief statement yesterday: “We are aware of the Executive Order that was issued today by Governor Abbott. We will be reviewing it with our team to fully understand its implications and requirements.”

A spokesperson from UMC told ABC-7 that they have no further updates as of this morning.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- This morning, a viewer contacted ABC-7 with concerns that El Dorado High School in Far East El Paso was charging teachers $25 to park in the school's lot.

"Can you please investigate why a local high school in SISD charges teachers $25 to park to work? As teachers, we are facing budget cuts, have to buy school supplies, no step increases, no wage increases and morale is low," the viewer stated in part.

"If I get to work early, I can not get the closest parking as it is reserved for the teacher who paid $25 and gets there late for work," the viewer added.

ABC-7 contacted Socorro Independent School District, which oversees El Dorado High School.

A spokesperson for the school district explained that the school sectioned off certain parking spaces for a fundraiser, so those who would like to support the fundraiser can pay $25 to park in one of those parking spaces. However, there is plenty of other parking not included in the fundraiser, the spokesperson added.

This is a common practice across the district and El Paso, according to the spokesperson.

ABC-7 is working to get additional information, including the beneficiary of the fundraiser.

The post Find out why some teachers just paid to park at El Dorado High School appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- HOME's proposed South Mesa Hills Development received $16 million in 9% tax credits from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, according to a press release from yesterday.

Per the statement, no taxpayer money is being used to fund this project.

This announcement comes amid resistance from residents in the neighborhood surrounding the proposed site of the development, who are worried that the new project would bring an increase in traffic and crime to the neighborhood, among other concerns.

"We have heard and addressed the concerns of neighbors who reside near the new proposed community in the Mesa Hills area through a private meeting held on May 8th, 2024, and a public meeting held on July 9th, 2024," HOME said in a statement to ABC-7 last week.

"Additionally, there have also been two public meetings within the past three months held by the City of El Paso and attended by HOME staff, where the subject of this wonderful housing community was considered. The proposed zoning changes to the property were approved by a vote of 8-0. HOME is confident that the new community and its residents will be a beautiful addition to the community."

The post Watch: HOME awarded $16 million for Mesa Hills Affordable Housing, a development opposed by some residents appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Residents of the City of El Paso's eighth district delivered a letter to City Hall Tuesday morning, displaying an intent to petition a recall to remove Chris Canales as their representative.

This is just the first step in the process to try and gather support for a recall election.

According to the city's charter, those who want to recall Canales have 60 days to gather authentic signatures from at least 20% of the number of votes cast in Canales' election.

Three citizens of District 8 -- Jose Nunez, Linda Peacock and Debbie Welch -- delivered the letter of intent to City Hall and signed their names in person before delivering the letter to the City Clerk.

ABC-7 received a copy of the letter, which reads as follows:

Representative Canales spoke with ABC-7, saying that over his 19 months in office, he has been very engaged with residents of District 8.

"I am very proud of the work I do for community engagement. We do, at minimum, two community meetings every month. I have a regular email newsletter and we do lots of updates on social media," Canales said. "I think this shows the importance of being engaged in local government and trying to keep up with what's happening because I can put out a ton of effort to engage people, but it takes a reciprocal effort on the other side."

Canales added that he would participate in a special election to retain his seat if the group collected the necessary signatures, also noting that the election would cost taxpayers about $275,000.

The post El Paso residents submit intent letter to recall City Rep. Chris Canales appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- As parental concerns grow, agencies are warning drivers to slow down in school zones as millions of students across the U.S. head back into the classroom this school year.

The Texas Department of Public Safety sent out a press release Monday with the following safety tips for those driving in and through school zones:

• Give students extra room and don’t assume they are paying attention to your vehicle. Students are often distracted by mobile devices, listening to electronic devices or by other students, and they may not be paying attention to their surroundings.
• Don’t block crosswalks when stopped at a red light or stop sign.
• Follow the directions of school crossing guards.
• Watch for children on bicycles traveling to and from schools.
• Reduce your speed when you spot a school bus and know children may unexpectedly step into the road without checking for oncoming traffic.
• Be careful around railroad crossings. School buses are legally required to stop at them.
• Know the laws regarding school buses. According to Texas law, if a bus has alternating flashing red signals visible from the front or rear, drivers MUST stop before reaching the bus. Drivers can only proceed if the flashing lights are no longer activated, the driver signals you to proceed or the bus has resumed driving. Approaching drivers do NOT have to stop for a school bus that is operating a visual signal if the road is separated by a physical barrier or an intervening space. If a highway is only divided by a left-turn lane, it is not considered divided, and drivers must stop for school buses.
• Drivers who illegally pass a school bus face fines up to $1,250 for the first offense. For people convicted of the offense more than once, the law allows for the person’s driver license to be suspended for up to six months. Criminal charges are possible if a driver causes someone serious bodily injury.
• Always obey speed limits and traffic laws in school zones.
• Remember, texting while driving is illegal in Texas.

Texas DPS is also reminding parents to have conversations with their children about being safe when they are walking, riding bikes, or otherwise in school zones.

The agency said these are the things parents should consider when talking to their children:

• Ensure the school has up-to-date emergency contact information, including phone numbers for parents, guardians and alternate contacts.
• Keep a current, up-to-date picture of your child throughout the school year on your mobile device that shows identifying information. In the event of an emergency, law enforcement can quickly distribute an updated photograph of your child.
• Talk to your child about what to do in case of emergencies, such as fire drills, active shooter drills, tornado drills or other lockdowns.
• Remind your child to never talk to strangers or accept rides from anyone not previously approved by you.
• Familiarize yourself and your child with their school’s safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure your child knows which adults at school (teachers, counselors, etc.) they can go to if they need help.
• Continue to cultivate conversations throughout the school year on practicing smart safety at school.

The post Slow down: agencies warn of dangers in school zones as students head back to school appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Months after the El Paso Zoological Society ended its partnership with the City of El Paso and the Zoo itself, the nonprofit will celebrate the end of its Conservation Guardian Summer Camp this afternoon.

El Paso Community College hosted the month-long summer camp, where kids "immerse themselves in nature and get inspired to become stewards of the Earth", according to the EPZS website.

Today's celebration will reflect on the campers' experience and honor the camp's sponsors.

ABC-7 will have updates on the event in this evening's newscasts.

The post El Paso Zoological Society celebrates summer camp appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Congresswoman Veronica Escobar said this morning that she expects to play a major role in Vice President Kamala Harris's presidential campaign.

"I got a call yesterday from the campaign, and they told me to be on high alert, that (Harris) is going to try to call me back today or tomorrow," Escobar said this morning. "She is going to be asking me to remain as co-chair of her campaign."

Escobar expressed her full support for Harris on July 22, a day after President Joe Biden stepped down from his reelection campaign and endorsed his vice president.

At the time, Escobar said she missed two phone calls from Harris, but looked forward to talking with her soon.

It was unclear whether or not Escobar spoke to Harris directly since the vice president's campaign began.

The post Congresswoman Escobar expects to remain co-chair for Harris Campaign appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso County Sheriff candidates Minerva Torres Shelton and Constable Oscar Ugarte will participate in the Central Business Association's July Luncheon Panel today.

The event takes place at the El Paso Convention Center today at noon.

The candidates will present their plans for the office of El Paso County Sheriff and take questions from El Paso business leaders and other guests.

ABC-7 will share the latest details on the luncheon during this evening's newscasts.

The post El Paso CBA hosts County Sheriff candidates at luncheon appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Coronado Neighbors United will submit "a written petition to request City Council members to vote against the proposed project by the Housing Authority on Mesa Hills PZRZ24-00002", according to a statement.

In May, West El Paso residents near Mesa Hills Drive and Bluff Trail Lane moved forward with their efforts to stop the Housing Authority of the City of El Paso (HOME) from building an affordable housing complex in their neighborhood.

According to the statement, 620 residents from Coronado del Sol, Coronado Hills and surrounding neighborhoods in El Paso signed the petition, which "reflects the widespread firm opposition to the Housing Authority's proposed development on Mesa Hills".

The statement continued, "As a community, we firmly believe that this project is not in the best interest of our neighborhoods and will have adverse effects on our quality of life."

The board of the Housing Authority of the City of El Paso (HOME) decided in a public meeting Tuesday, July 9, that it would consider approving the construction of 104 units of affordable housing in the Mesa Hills Drive area.

The group of residents will host a public event at El Paso City Hall today at 11 a.m. to present the petition to City Council members.

The post Coronado Neighbors United to oppose HOME project at City Hall appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Contract bidding is now open for the Wyler Aerial Tramway's revival.

The El Paso State Delegation secured $20 million for the project's initial phase.

This includes improvements to the roadway, supportive infrastructure, shelters, hiking trails, an amphitheater, and additional parking.

The delegation was led by Senator César J. Blanco, Representative Lina Ortega, Representative Joe Moody, Representative Claudia Ordaz and Representative Mary Gonzalez.

For the latest information on this project, tune in to ABC-7 this evening.

The post First phase of Wyler Aerial Tramway reconstruction begins appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada Garcia worked alongside Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán Loera for years, up until Guzmán's capture and extradition to the United States in 2016

Zambada then assumed the lead of the Sinaloa Cartel until his arrest in El Paso on Thursday.

Former U.S. Marshal Robert Almonte said this could shake up the major cartels in the Juárez area.

"You may see an increase in the Juarez area," Almonte said. "The Juarez cartel and New Generation cartel may try to increase their pressure in the war against the Sinaloa Cartel, so only time will tell."

Though for the time being, the Sinaloa cartel will have to regroup, their position as one of the world's most powerful drug trafficking organizations won't go anywhere.

"This will by no means mean the end of the Sinaloa Cartel," Almonte added. "You have other people stepping up in (Zambada's) place."

The post “A blow to the Sinaloa Cartel”: Former U.S. Marshal discusses impact of ‘El Mayo’ arrest appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- For the first time in history, Southwest Airlines will ditch its open seating policy in favor of a more traditional boarding process.

With the switch to assigned seating, the airline says they will "offer premium seating options to meet evolving customer preferences and increase revenue opportunities".

Southwest will redesign the configurations of their planes to accommodate the premium seating, which includes extra legroom.

The introduction of overnight, or red-eye, flights allows the airline to increase efficiency by operating 24 hours a day like its competitors.

These changes come after a quarterly financial review in April where the airline studied product preferences and expectations, leading to these changes geared towards meeting customer demand. In addition, the airline anticipates the new model will "produce additional revenue and strengthen financial performance".

More details on the comprehensive plan will be released during its Investor Day in late September.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- A new type of scam is targeting El Pasoans via text.

El Paso's FBI office shared an example on x.com (formerly Twitter) of a message from "Texas Toll Services" threatening a $150 charge if the balance was not paid.

Since March 2024, the FBI says it has received over 2,000 complaints about texts representing road toll collection services across three states.

If you receive one of these texts, contact the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to file a complaint at www.ic3.gov.

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HORIZON CITY, Texas (KVIA) -- A local golf course is teaming up with one the sport's biggest stars to give golfers a new way to practice and enjoy the game.

Golfers come from across the borderland come to test their skills at Horizon Golf Course, where a never-before-seen facility coming soon could take the course to new heights.

In a partnership with golfer Bryson DeChambeau, Horizon will be the second installment of his new project, UnderPar Life.

The new facility will include state of the art Trackman technology in each hitting bay, a world class short game area and real grass in addition to turf mats where guests can practice.

There will also be an upscale food and beverage service, so people can enjoy the facility whether they're a serious golfer or just having some fun.

"Everybody knows Bryson, and he's had such a good impact in the last few years in what he's done with golf, but getting involved in the aspect of growing the game of golf," Horizon Head Golf Pro Luis Delgadillo said. "It's awesome for our community and for the whole El Paso area."

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A new development in Northwest El Paso will soon bring more business space to the growing area.

Plexxar / Industry Realty Group leads the development of the area. 21 different lots on the property will be for sale, ranging from 0.6 to 1.4 acres.

The lot is located off Resler Dr. between Paseo del Norte and Helen of Troy Dr. less than a mile away from West Towne Marketplace and the Canyons at Cimmaron and less than two miles from The Hospitals of Providence Transmountain campus.

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Vice President Kamala Harris spoke publicly for the first time since President Joe Biden relinquished his reelection campaign.

Harris spoke at an event in Washington D.C. celebrating NCAA championship teams earlier today, first noting that President Biden "wanted to be here today" and is "feeling much better and recovering fast" after testing positive for COVID-19 last week.

She went on to commend Biden's accomplishments over the last three years, which she said were "unmatched in modern history".

"In one term, he has already surpassed the legacy of most presidents who have served two terms in office," Harris added. "His honesty, his integrity, his commitment to his faith and his family. His big heart and his love, deep love of our country, and I am firsthand witness that every day our president, Joe Biden, fights for the American people and we are deeply, deeply grateful for his service to our nation."

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Joe Pickett was elected as an El Paso city councilman in 1991, before serving in the Texas House of Representatives from 1995 to 2019.

The same year he retired, Pickett noticed a 50% increase in the franchise fee on his water bill and went to the city to get answers.

Pickett says he called the city manager, who wouldn't offer a clear reason for the increase.

In early 2020, he wrote letters to the City Manager and his city council representative.

After no response from anyone, he explored the city's budget and says he found millions of dollars being relocated from the franchise fee to other departments.

In October 2020, Pickett filed a lawsuit against the city, and earlier this week, El Paso City Council rejected his latest settlement claim.

This week city council voted to not give him settlement money.

He says what he discovered throughout the process was even more shocking.

"What we found out are some other questionable fees with all the open records requests, the depositions," Pickett said. "I guess you could call it a win for the public in that once I caught the city at what they were doing, they have not openly been transferring money from that account."

ABC-7 reached out to the City of El Paso for comment, but has not yet heard back.

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The Texas Department of Transportation launched a new campaign to crack down on speeding across the Lone Star state.

In partnership with local law enforcement agencies, the Department of Transportation's "Be Safe. Drive Smart." campaign aims to remind drivers to abide by speed limits and drive in ways appropriate for the road conditions.

According to local TxDOT officials, last year in El Paso, 3,852 traffic crashes involved speeding, resulting in 35 fatalities and 87 serious injuries. In addition, fatalities resulting from traffic crashes involving speeding increased 47.2% and serious injuries increased 10.6%.

Operation Slowdown, the initiative designed to more strictly enforce speed limit enforcement, takes place from July 19 to August 4.

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Paul Schulz is excited to join the team at KVIA as an anchor, producer and MMJ. He was born and raised in Southern California and was an avid viewer of ABC 7 Los Angeles growing up and is very excited to have the opportunity to work at ABC 7 here in El Paso. Schulz graduated from Arizona State University's Cronkite School of Journalism in May, where he was an anchor, reporter and producer for Cronkite News, the school's student news service. In his free time, Schulz enjoys playing golf, attending sporting events, and exploring new places.

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(KVIA) -- Congresswoman Veronica Escobar joined America's Voice and immigration experts this morning to "sound the alarm" and discuss the looming threats of a potential second presidential term for Donald Trump.

Escobar warned that some of her Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives repeatedly use fear to "paint immigrants as criminals".

Today's events at the Republican National Convention center on the topic "Make America Safe Again".

Representative Escobar and speakers from the Niskanen Center, Vera Action and the American Civil Liberties Union warned that despite Trump's attempts to distance himself from Project 2025, he "implemented sixty-four percent of Heritage's recommendations just within the first year of his last administration," said Kristie De Peña, Senior Vice President for Policy & Research and Director of Immigration Policy at the Niskanen Center.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- A new way to buy ammunition has made its way to a Texas grocery store.

American Rounds is a company making headlines recently for their new vending machines at Lowe's Market in Canyon Lake, Texas.

According to the company's website, their dispensers use AI technology, scan identification cards and use facial recognition "to verify the buyer’s age and that the person using the machine matches the identification scanned".

So far, the American Rounds machines can be found in stores in Alabama, Oklahoma, and as of just a week ago, Texas.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- One of El Paso's large event venues most likely will not receive county funding to assist in renovations.

Back in May, the University of Texas at El Paso proposed the Sun Bowl Uplift project, with the goal of "bringing more A-list events" to the venue, according to UTEP's website.

In addition to said events, the university estimated a possible $2.06 billion of economic impact over the next 30 years and 82 million in tax revenue for El Paso County said a report from the Hunt Institute.

The El Paso County Commissioners Court, however, prioritized other areas of improvement they felt will have a more direct impact on the community.

The County Bond Advisory Committee (BoAC)'s final recommendation to the Commissioner's Court listed improvements to parks, flood control, water and wastewater improvement, technology and security enhancements.

ABC-7 has not yet heard back from UTEP officials in a request for comment.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The El Paso County Road and Bridge division led a cleanup of leftover trash, debris and fireworks from those who celebrated Fourth of July in far east El Paso county.

Because fireworks are not allowed within city limits, the number of El Pasoans who visit each year continues to grow.

Ernie Lonvelin, the road and maintenance foreman for the Montana Vista area, said crews collected over 200 bags of trash just this morning.

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Tony the Tiger will be back at the Sun Bowl in December for at least the next two years.

The WK Kellogg Co agreed to extend its sponsorship of the annual college football bowl game. The sponsorship began in 2019.

“We are thrilled to continue to partner with the Sun Bowl Association and appreciate everything the organization does for the city of El Paso,” Doug VanDeVelde, Chief Growth Officer, WK Kellogg said according to a press release. “This is a highlight of the year for us and we look forward to growing our relationship to bring more amazing games and traditions to fans in El Paso.”

The Sun Bowl association maintains the goal of "helping kids play sports", and hosts events throughout the year to encourage athletic activity in the community. These events include the fourth annual Sun Bowl Adult Flag Football Tournament from Aug. 23-25 and the sixty third annual Weststar Don Haskins Sun Bowl Invitational basketball tournament Dec. 20-21.

The second oldest bowl game in the nation will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, at Sun Bowl Stadium.

“We are all very excited to be able to come to an agreement and renew our relationship with WK Kellogg Co,” said Sun Bowl Association Executive Director Bernie Olivas. “This sponsorship renewal highlights the growing partnership between Kellogg’s and the Sun Bowl Association, showcasing our mutual commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for college football fans each year.”

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EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Diocese of El Paso released an updated schedule for this year's Kermés celebrations.

These annual events allow the community to enjoy a variety of food, games and live music at churches throughout the diocese.

The bazaars raise funds for each church's operations and other needs.

2024 Kermés dates

• St. John Paul II – July 6th
• St Ignatius of Loyola – July 26th - 28th
• St. Paul the Apostle -July 27th & 28th
• Little Flower – August 2nd, 3rd, & 4th
• Our Lady of the Light – August 2nd - 4th
• San Lorenzo – August 9th - 11th
• St. Mark - August 30th, 31st & September 1st
• Immaculate Heart of Mary (Canutillo,TX) - August 30th, 31st, & September 1st
• St. Anthony’s Seminary – August 31st, September 1st & 2nd
• Holy Spirit (Horizon City) - September 6th, 7th, & 8th
• San Juan Diego - September 6th, 7th, & 8th
• San Pedro Maldonado – September 13th and 14th
• Santa Rosa de Lima (Pecos, TX) - September 13th -15th
• St. Patrick (Canutillo, TX) - September 14th & 15th
• San Judas Tadeo – September 21st - 22nd
• Corpus Christi – September 20th, 21st, & 22nd
• Christ the Savior – September 21st & 22nd
• Our Lady of Fatima (Van Horn, TX) - September 21st 3:00pm - 12:00am
• La Purisima – Sept 27th (6pm-12am), 28th (2pm-12am), 29th (1pm-12am)
• St Raphael Church – September 27 (6pm-11pm), 28th (12pm-11pm)
• Our Lady of Sorrows – September 28th & 29th
• Our Lady of the Valley - October 4th & 5th
• St. Pius X - October 4th, 5th & 6th
• Cathedral High School – October 11th - 13th
• San Antonio de Padua - October 19th 1:00pm - 11:00pm

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