Author: KVIA

Gabrielle Lopez

UPDATE (Oct. 20, 2026): The El Paso Police Department said 42-year-old Rene Dario Perez-Ramirez died in Monday’s crash.

In a news release, EPPD said eight vehicles were involved in the crash, including a semi-trailer with failed brakes.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the semi drove southbound on Loop 375 toward the intersection with North Desert Boulevard. The driver said the semi’s brakes failed, according to police.

The semi continued south and sideswept an SUV, which then got pushed into a truck. Police said the crash hit two other vehicles, including Perez-Ramirez’ truck.

He died at the crash site, police said.

The semi continued south, crashing into another truck and another SUV, police said. Debris from the impact hit the eighth vehicle, a truck.

Police said the driver of one of the trucks reported serious injuries.

EPPD said the crash led to the 55th traffic death of 2026, compared to 51 at this time last year.

UPDATE (Oct. 20, 2026): TxDOT El Paso said on X that the crash cleared and lanes reopened at 10:30 p.m. Monday.

UPDATE (4:22 p.m.): ABC-7 reached out to TxDOT about Monday’s crash. It happened in the same area where other crashes involving semis and tractor trailers.

ABC-7 told TxDOT about a public call-out asking that semis no longer use Transmountain. TxDOT responded with the following message:

“The mechanical runaway truck ramp on Transmountain Road is fully operational and available for use. Portable message signs as well as additional messaging on the permanent DMS sign are currently in place, while additional permanent distance signs and beacons are installed, advising drivers of the upcoming runaway truck ramp and that the ramp is located on the left side of the roadway. Existing signage includes notifications for low gear use, the upcoming left-side ramp, and the end of the freeway. The location also has rumble strips in advance of the intersection.

While this is the first mechanical ramp system on Loop 375 (Transmountain), it is the fourth runaway ramp on the roadway. The stretch has three gravel truck runaway ramps, one westbound and two eastbound.

Other safety measures for trucks include enhanced permanent signage that provides additional warning of existing truck runaway ramps on both directions and Dynamic Message Sign (DMS) messages were developed to advise trucks to use lower gears due to the steep grades. Additional signing, across the mountain, was also installed to provide advance warning of the steep grades ahead.

We continue to further evaluate future potential enhancements.

According to TxDOT guidance, the department generally does not have the authority to prohibit the use of a state highway by a class of vehicles that are operating within applicable legal size and weight limits. TxDOT’s focus is on roadway infrastructure improvements, traffic operations, and safety enhancements designed to reduce conflicts and improve travel conditions for all motorists. Local governments may request traffic restrictions or operational changes, restrictions on state highways require review and approval through the appropriate transportation authorities.”

UPDATE (1:57 p.m.): A man died after Monday’s crash, according to EPPD Detective Judy Ovidedo.

Police didn’t share any identifying information about the man.

Detective Oviedo said the crash involved semi and five other vehicles.

The streets in the area will stay blocked off for several hours, police said. The following roads closed:

Loop 375 at North Desert and South Desert Road A Isela Rubalcava Boulevard Talbot Avenue at Spur 16

UPDATE (12:14 p.m.): One person was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital after Monday’s crash. The El Paso Fire Department said four other people went to hospitals with various injuries.

EPFD said it assessed 10 people as patients. Four refused to go to the hospital.

Officials haven’t shared details about the 10th person.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — A crash closed all lanes at the Loop 375 (Transmountain) overpass at I-10 on Monday, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

TxDOT maps said the crash happened around 10:38 a.m. All lanes in all directions are closed until further notice.

(Courtesy: TxDOT El Paso via X)

El Paso police said a semi and other vehicles crashed. Police didn’t specify how many.

The El Paso Police Department’s Special Traffic Investigators Unit responded to the crash.

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Nina Gallegos

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — On Monday, the employees at the El Paso County Courthouse downtown had to evacuate because of a fire, according to the El Paso Fire Department. The courthouse is closed for the rest of the day.

The El Paso Fire Department said a fire prompted an evacuation at the Downtown El Paso County Courthouse on Oct. 19, 2026.(Courtesy: KVIA)

EPFD said employees received a text to evacuate the building Monday morning. The department said it received reports of smoke on the 13th floor just after 9 a.m.

“The fire was contained to a transformer that was controlling one of the elevators,” said EPFD Battalion Chief Jesus Salmeron. “All the other elevators are operable, but we also have the stairwells that people were able to use when they evacuated the building.”

El Paso County said those in the building evacuated because of the heavy smoke.

EPFD said 200 people were evacuated from the building. It said no injuries were reported.

The courthouse will stay closed for the rest of the day, according to an EPFD spokesperson.

Early voting started in Texas Monday. The El Paso County Elections Department said early voters can cast their ballots at the El Paso Senior Center (600 S. Ochoa St.), which is the closest alternative to the courthouse.

Monday’s El Paso County Commissioners Court meeting was also cancelled because of the fire, according to the county. The court will resume its business at its next meeting on Oct. 26.

A county spokesperson said the courthouse is expected to reopen Tuesday.

The sudden, all-day shutdown left dozens of people stranded on the sidewalk outside, waiting for instructions on how to handle urgent legal matters, hearings, and official documents.

Among those caught in the confusion was Ricky Ramirez, a college student who had to miss critical coursework to resolve a fishing fine ticket.

“My schedule is really tight, especially for a college student,” Ramirez said. “It would be a hassle because I had to skip three classes today to be here. And as an engineering student, that is quite a lot.”

Ramirez noted the importance of the facility, though he felt powerless given the unexpected emergency.

“At the same time, it’s like, what can I do about that?” he added. “You know, the courthouse is a very important building, as my brother was saying.”

For Ramirez and many first-time court visitors, the complete lack of immediate updates created anxiety over potential legal penalties.

“Right now we should be in there either talking to the judge or waiting for our turn,” Ramirez said. “And if we don’t get an update, how are we going to know what to do, how to progress with this?”

He explained that missing a scheduled court appearance usually carries severe consequences.

“We were told that if we don’t show up, we could be fined or even potentially go to jail for it,” he noted. “So that’s the case—I don’t want to go to jail over something that wasn’t my fault.”

Navigating the court system without guidance proved particularly stressful for those unfamiliar with legal procedures.

“Guidance is very necessary for our situations, especially because it’s our first time doing any of this,” Ramirez said. “So we have no idea how any of this works.”

Ramirez was far from the only person left in limbo. Crowds of confused employees, interns, and members of the public remained outside waiting for answers throughout the afternoon:

Legal Proceedings: One visitor who showed up for a DUI court date expressed frustration after taking off work, only to miss his appearance without being told how to proceed. Vital Statistics & Jury Duty: Others gathered outside waiting to pick up birth certificates or report for jury duty summonses.

Many reported waiting outside for hours before realizing the courthouse would remain closed for the full day.

Early Voting Relocated; Meetings Canceled

The closure coincided with the first day of early voting in Texas. Even into the late afternoon, as ABC-7 was reporting live at 4:00 and 5:00, voters continued arriving at the courthouse, unaware that the facility was closed.

To accommodate voters, the El Paso County Elections Department redirected early voters to the El Paso Senior Center (600 S. Ochoa St.), which served as the closest primary alternative location.

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Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The El Paso Police Department took a man into custody after he allegedly barricaded himself after a report of a domestic disturbance in Northwest El Paso on Monday.

EPPD said it received a call for the disturbance at 7:24 a.m. at the 7500 block of Plaza Taurina Drive, which is near Brown Middle School.

According to EPPD Detective Judy Oviedo, a man in his 40s barricaded himself in a shed at the home on Plaza Taurina Drive. She said the man may have had a weapon.

Oviedo said crisis intervention and SWAT teams were at the home.

Detective Oviedo said there isn’t a threat to the public or the surrounding area. Police closed off the area for the safety of others.

Oviedo said anyone with information on the situation can call the police department at 915-832-4400. 

This is a developing story.

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Nichole Gomez

El Paso, TX (KVIA-TV)-As the school year continues, families across El Paso are being urged to stay vigilant as dangerous online trends rapidly spread among children and teens—often before parents even know they exist. Local experts warn that viral social media challenges and unsafe digital communities are putting young people at risk in ways that are both immediate and difficult to predict.

Cally Conklin, a digital safety advocate, recently discussed the issue with community members, highlighting the types of threats that can emerge on platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Discord. “Physical challenges, school-based vandalism, and digital safety threats are just a few examples of the risks that can go viral almost overnight,” Conklin said. “These trends appeal to teens because of peer pressure and the desire to fit in, but participation can carry serious real-life consequences—including injury, disciplinary action at school, or even legal trouble.”

Parents are encouraged to have open conversations with their children about online influence and making safe choices. Experts recommend discussing peer pressure and teaching kids to recognize warning signs that a trend may be risky. “If you notice sudden changes in your teen’s behavior, secretive internet use, or exposure to unfamiliar online communities, it’s important to check in and offer support,” Conklin advised.

The El Paso community is also working together to prevent dangerous behaviors before they escalate. Schools, local organizations, and law enforcement are providing resources and educational programs aimed at teaching digital citizenship and safe online habits.

For families seeking support, a variety of resources are available, including online safety workshops, school counseling services, and informational guides on recognizing and responding to digital threats.

As technology evolves, experts emphasize the importance of staying informed and proactive. “Keeping kids safe online is a team effort,” Conklin said. “It takes parents, schools, and the whole community working together.”

For more information on online safety and local resources, visit your school district’s website or contact your child’s school counselor.

https://crime-stoppers.org

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Andrew J. Polk

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Ahead of early voting for the November election starting on Monday in Texas, ABC-7’s Andrew J. Polk spoke one-on-one with the challenger for the El Paso County Judge seat.

Minerva Torres Shelton discussed her campaign and the issues affecting the county, and how she would handle them if elected. As the Republican nominee, she is facing off with Democrat and incumbent El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego.

ABC-7 invited Samaniego to participate in a debate with Torres Shelton, but he declined.

Watch the interview Friday on ABC-7 at 10 p.m.

Find ABC-7’s full Voter Guide here.

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Gabrielle Lopez

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KVIA) — A 41-year-old man received a 15-year prison sentence for second-degree criminal sexual contact of a child, Las Cruces District Attorney Fernando Macias announced Friday.

Alfredo A. Salazar-Rios from Anthony, New Mexico, pleaded no contest to the charge on July 21. The court also ordered him to register as a sex offender, according to the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

Alfredo A. Salazar Rios’ mugshot(Courtesy: DACDC)

Macias’ office requested the 15-year sentence, which is the highest recommendation permitted under the plea agreement.

“We asked for a 15-year sentence because of the seriousness of this crime and the harm it caused. Today’s sentence delivers that accountability. While no sentence can undo the harm, we believe this outcome serves the cause of justice,” said Attorney Spencer Willson.

“Every child deserves a safe place to grow up and a community that looks out for them,” District Attorney Macias said.

Jail records said Salazar Rios booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center without bond on Friday.

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Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Friday, working police K9 teams competed to put their skills and training to the test. El Paso County law enforcement agencies took the top three places.

At the El Paso County Coliseum, 42 K9 teams raced against the clock to see who the top dog is. Teams from El Paso, Mexico and New Mexico participated in narcotics detection.

John Deanda and K9 Adu from the El Paso Independent School District Police Department earned the Top Dog title after Friday’s competition.

John Deanda from the EPISD Police Department.(Courtesy: El Paso County Coliseum)

El Paso Police Department’s Sergeant J. Frayre and K9 Sarge took second place. Socorro Police Department Officer Ivan Sosa and K9 Mala took third.

Sgt. J. Frayre from EPPD.(Courtesy: El Paso County Coliseum) Socorro Police Department Officer Ivan Sosa.(Courtesy: El Paso County Coliseum)

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office hosted the El Chuco 2026 K9 Competition. Deputy Raymundo Munoz said the number of participating teams doubled compared to last year’s competition.

K9s compete in the El Chuco 2026 K9 Competition at the El Paso County Coliseum.(Courtesy: KVIA)

While teams compete, they also learn from each other. Munoz said the competition is an opportunity for agencies to learn how they train differently and improve based on what they learn.

“We want to know how they trained. Of course we could. All the instructors, all the judges, we get together to improve everyone’s performance, all the canine teams throughout, not only here in the United States, but also in Mexico,” Munoz said.

Munoz said the teams had to navigate two challenges: one involving vehicle searching and one involving a scattered search area. The teams had three minutes to find as many items as they could. Teams earned their scores based on accuracy.

EPCSO started the competition after seeing an agency host a similar one in Brownsville, Texas, according to Munoz.

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Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The El Paso International Airport hired a new aviation director, the city announced on Friday. Rachel Engeler will bring more than 20 years of commercial airport leadership and operations to the airport.

As an aviation director, Engeler will oversee the city’s Aviation Department, which is responsible for airport operations, security administration, development, facilities, air service and real estate.

She will take on her new role in El Paso on Oct. 26.

Engeler will work in El Paso after working at the Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport in Wisconsin, where she has served as Assistant Airport Director since 2018. She also worked at the Dane County Regional Airport in Wisconsin for 18 years.

The City of EL Paso said she also led sustainability efforts that helped Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport become the first airport globally to achieve Alliance for Water Stewardship certification.

“Rachel brings the experience, leadership and strategic vision to help guide El Paso International Airport into its next chapter,” said City Manager Dionne L. Mack in a statement. “Her background in airport operations, capital planning and organizational leadership will help us strengthen ELP as a transportation and economic gateway while positioning the airport for continued growth.”

Engeler graduated with a master’s of science in organizational change management from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and a bachelor’s in business administration in airport management from the University of North Dakota. The city said she holds U.S. Airport Professional accreditation.

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Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection on Friday announced the lowest fiscal year migrant border crossings in U.S. history.

CBP said fiscal year 2026 data showed a 95% drop in southwest border apprehensions and the lowest annual encounters in U.S. history. Additionally, data showed the first-ever fiscal year with zero Border Patrol releases.

CBP said September marked the 17th consecutive month with zero releases.

“FY 2026 demonstrated what focused enforcement, strong partnerships, and the commitment of our frontline personnel can achieve,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott in a statement.

Border Patrol recorded 98,708 southwest border apprehensions in fiscal year 2026. Border Patrol said it recorded more than 1.8 million apprehensions per year during former President Joe Biden’s term.

Preliminary data showed the total nationwide encounters for fiscal year 2026 were the lowest in the agency’s history at 379,243, compared with 2.7 million per year under former President Biden.

With fewer illegal crossings, agencies have seen fewer border-related deaths. CBP said preliminary data showed migrant deaths identified by Border Patrol fell nearly 80% for this fiscal year compared to the previous administration.

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Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — A coalition of legal organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union and Texas Civil Rights Project, filed a motion in federal court demanding urgent changes at Camp East Montana.

The groups alleged the immigration detention center on Fort Bliss has severe medical neglect, unsafe living conditions and violence by guards. They said the factors caused three deaths at the facility in the past year.

Their motion includes testimony from current and former detainees, who alleged hunger, lack of water and punishment for seeking help.

Advocates said the federal government failed to address abuses at the facility, and they’re seeking a preliminary injunction to force improvements.

The lawsuit calls for immediate court action to prevent further harm.

As ABC-7 previously reported, ICE and the Department of Homeland Security defended conditions at Camp East Montana and said it reviewed conditions at the facility.

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