Author: KVIA

Paul Schulz

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — A spokesperson for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)confirmed to ABC-7 Tuesday morning that the Camp East Montana will remain open.

The spokesperson shared the following statement with ABC-7:

“Camp East Montana is NOT closing, quite the opposite. Rather, ICE has contracted with a new provider following Secretary Noem’s termination of the old contract inherited from the Department of War. ICE is always looking at ways to improve our detention facilities to ensure we are providing the best care to illegal aliens in our custody.

This new contractor will allow Camp East Montana to continue abiding by the highest detention standards WITH the ability to provide MORE medical care on-site. This contract also allows more on-site staff and a PRECISE quality assurance surveillance plan. ICE will have even more oversight of the contractors at this facility. Far from closing, Camp East Montana is upgrading.”

ABC-7 also spoke with the Texas Civil Rights Project (TCRP), a migrant advocacy group and legal firm that has attorneys who have visited Camp East Montana multiple times since it opened in August of last year.

“Some detainees are not receiving the medication that they need at all or are receiving that medication late, which exacerbates their symptoms,” said staff attorney Charlotte Weiss. “Individuals are subject to excessive force, including when they ask for basic necessities such as prescription medication or food that is not spoiled; the quantity of food that individuals are given is about the size of a fist and the food, overwhelmingly, we’ve heard from individuals, causes them to vomit and to have diarrhea.”

Staff attorney Weiss said they’ve also been speaking with individuals for the last few months who have been subject to forced ‘third-country’ removals, which means that these individuals are being forced by the federal government or the government attempts to remove them to Mexico or to a country where they are not from and where they have no ties to, according to Weiss.

“I’ll start by reiterating that the ultimate thing that we want and that we need is for the facility to be shut down,” said staff attorney Weiss. “If the facility isn’t shut down, what is needed is for there to be no more use of third-country removals, which means that the government does not try to remove someone to Mexico who is not from there.”

“It’s also important that individuals receive adequate medical care, which means that once they request to speak with a doctor, they speak with the doctor immediately. It’s important for individuals to be given food that fills their stomach, that does not leave them hungry, and for them to be given food that does not make them sick,” attorney Weiss added.

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Heriberto Perez Lara

UPDATE– ICE responded to ABC-7’s request from Tuesday, a spokesperson said the department does comply with the National Environmental Policy:

“Let’s be honest about this. This isn’t about the environment. It’s about trying to stop President Trump from making America safe again. The left didn’t care about the mountains of litter that illegals aliens dropped on ranches and riverbeds during Biden’s border crisis. They’re feigning concern now because they want those same illegal aliens to stay forever and vote here.

“ICE fully complies with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) as implemented by DHS directives and policies when planning and executing all ICE actions, including real estate acquisitions. Prior to purchasing this site, ICE carefully evaluated the use of existing facilities to help minimize environmental impacts, including potential impacts to protected species, sensitive natural resources, and valued cultural resources.”

SOCORRO, Texas (KVIA) — El Paso County, through the County Attorney’s Office, did a presentation during Monday’s Commissioners Court on the proposed new ICE detention center planned to be opened in Socorro, Texas.

County Attorney Christina Sanchez presented a legal overview, asking her office to present the process, status, and framework associated with detention centers within the county amid concerns recently raised by local communities.

According to the presentation, the County was made aware of the potential ICE detention facility on January 20 due to local media reports.

In response to community concerns, El Paso County says it has taken several actions, including:

Sending letters to the region’s congressional delegation requesting transparency and oversight regarding detention facilities.

Sending letters to the state delegation requesting opposition to this detention facility.

Requesting that federal officials ensure all environmental review requirements are followed before any project proceeds.

Submitting Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to DHS, ICE, and CBP seeking records related to the planning, construction, or operation of any proposed detention facility in El Paso County.

EP COUNTY DETENTION CENTER LEGAL OVERVIEWDownload

ABC-7 reached out to the El Paso County Attorney’s Office for comment.

El Paso County Attorney Christina Sanchez says County Commissioners directed her office to review any standards to process information they could come across at the proposed ICE detention center in Socorro.

“This is a matter of public concern that a lot of the information regarding the lead-up to this site has not been forthcoming from the federal government and this really was in response to the 200-plus members of the public who showed up to Commissioners Court to express their concern and for us as a governmental entity and as public servants, to provide any information that we can to the public on the issue,” said County Attorney Sanchez.

“There are implications for this: who bears the costs of ensuring that the infrastructure is in place? who bears the cost of ensuring that the roads are up to par to transport individuals back and forth? who incurs the costs for medical services that may need to be adhered to by individuals who are in the facility? Presumably, they would go to our public hospital for care,” County Attorney Sanchez added. “So it’s all a trickle-down effect in terms of the cost that would potentially be imposed on this community, of course, and not to mention the other concerns that El Paso County commissioners have in terms of the public health, safety and welfare of this community.”

At the end of the Commissioners Court meeting on Monday, County Commissioner for District 3, Iliana Holguin, who represents that portion of Far East El Paso County, said that due to the lack of communication from the federal government, they are incumbent to try to gather as much information and provide it to El Paso residents, especially those who submitted their public comment a couple of weeks ago.

“One of the many, many, many disturbing things about this entire situation has been the complete lack of information and transparency that we’ve received from the federal government,” said Commissioner Holguin. “Just to reassure the residents of El Paso County that our work on this issue is not done and I think we all certainly understand how important this issue is to our residents.”

According to Commissioner Holguin, El Paso Water is set to have its board meeting on March 11; she encourages all residents and community members who are concerned about the proposed ICE detention center in Socorro and the use of the County’s water resources by this facility to speak up in front of El Paso Water officials as well.

“County officials have also met with stakeholders, including the City of Socorro, Lower Valley Water District, Emergency Services District #2, members of the state and federal legislative delegation, and residents who have voiced concerns about the proposed facility,” El Paso County said in a statement.

While immigration detention facilities are operated by federal agencies, El Paso County stated it will continue monitoring developments, advocating for transparency, oversight, and community engagement as more information becomes available.

ABC-7 reached out to ICE and DHS again today for comment; we are still awaiting a response.

Yesterday, an ICE spokesperson told ABC-7 the following:

“There is nothing new on Socorro at this time. Yes, ICE has purchased property in Socorro, Texas. However, these will not be warehouses — they will be very well-structured detention facilities meeting our very robust national detention standards. As a federal law enforcement agency, ICE uses detention space across the country to meet its operational needs. ICE continues to seek new detention space across the United States to meet the needs of our mission and when a contract is finalized and a new facility is operational, that information will be available on ICE.gov.”

According to ICE, the Socorro, Texas, facility and its construction are expected to bring 4,907 jobs to the area and would contribute $851.1 million in GDP. It’s also projected to bring in about $153.4 million in tax revenue.

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Nichole Gomez

National Poison Prevention Week (NPPW) is observed annually during the third full week of March (March  to highlight the dangers of accidental poisoning and promote safety. Salvador Baeza, the Director of West Texas Poison Center at University Medical Center of El Paso, shares helpful tips to keep your family safe.

Key Safety Measures & Actions:

Store Safely: Keep medicines, cleaning products, laundry pods, and pesticides in their original containers, locked up, and out of sight of children.

Save the Number: Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 or visit poisonhelp.org for expert, confidential advice.

Preventive Action: Ensure child-resistant closures are used, check expiration dates, and keep products in original packaging.

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Nichole Gomez

El Paso, TX (KVIA-TV)-Love on Repeat, El Paso’s Official Couple’s Night, returns March 20. Headlining the evening is a special live performance by Yoshihana, who will set the tone for a night centered around intimacy, nostalgia, and connection. The event will also feature a D’Angelo tribute experience, honoring the legendary R&B icon. It is an environment where couples are encouraged to slow down and reconnect. The evening will include a hosted program, chef-curated dining, specialty cocktails, and a high-energy after-party.

Tickets are available at https://LoveOnRepeat1.eventbrite.com

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Joseph Montero

SOCORRO, Texas (KVIA)- Fire crews in Socorro responded to a mobile home fire early Tuesday morning.

The fire happened near Jo Way and Supima Road just off of Horizon Blvd.

ABC-7 has reached out to the City of Socorro for more information.

This is a developing story and we will continue to keep you updated as we learn more.

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Hillary Floren

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Love it or hate it, Daylight Saving Time is here! Judging by the responses of El Pasoans we spoke with, the jury’s still out on whether it’s a good idea to set the clocks back an hour. Regardless of your stance on the subject, chances are you’re feeling the effects.

“People seem to feel the drastic changes of “spring forward” a lot more than when we fall back in autumn,” says counselor Miriam Ross. “It really can affect your circadian rhythm, and leave you feeling groggy in the morning, restless at night and less focused during the day.”

Our circadian rhythm is closely regulated by exposure to light and darkness, and the brain doesn’t quickly adjust. That can cause melatonin to be released on the old schedule. Children and those who are already sleep deprived could feel it even more.

Experts advise to be patient and take care of yourself. After all, adjustment can take up to a week. The key is consistency with bedtimes and waking up. Prioritize light exposure in the morning, and eat meals at a consistent time. Exercising early in the day can strengthen circadian signals.

Ross says while you may be tempted to reach for extra caffeine or sugary snacks, know that they could negatively interfere with your sleep schedule.

Persistent sleep issues that drag on for weeks could be more serious. Chronic sleep deprivation can affect your entire body, including cardiovascular health, immune function, and mental wellness. Yes, it’s only an hour, but it can make a big difference!

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Heriberto Perez Lara

FORT BLISS, Texas (KVIA) — The Department of Homeland Security, through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), just confirmed as of March 6, there are no active measles infections at Camp East Montana.

“As of March 6, 2026, there are no active measles infections at Camp East Montana in Texas. Upon the confirmation of measles at the facility, ICE Health Services Corps immediately took steps to quarantine and control further spread and infection, ceasing all movement within the facility and quarantining all individuals suspected of making contact with the infected,” said an ICE spokesperson.

Even though there are no active measles cases anymore, in-person visitations continue to be suspended, ICE says it is to protect the health and safety of all detainees, staff and the community. However, all detainees will still have access to attorneys and visitation through Visual Attorney Visitation booths, tablets, or telephones. 

“Medical staff is continuing to monitor the detainees’ conditions and will take appropriate and active steps to prevent further infection.  All detainees are being provided with proper medical care, an ICE spokesperson added. “It is a longstanding practice to provide comprehensive medical care—including access to vaccines. This includes medical, dental, and mental health services as available, and access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. This is the best healthcare than many aliens have received in their entire lives.”  

In recent weeks, 14 cases were confirmed, prompting the ICE detention center to implement quarantine protocols and suspend all visits since last week.

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Nichole Gomez

KVIA-TV (El Pas, TX) – Minerva Torres Shelton, the former law enforcement officer, secured the Republican nomination against consultant Guadalupe Giner. Incumbent Ricardo Samaniego is running unopposed in the Democratic primary. He is seeking his third term.

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Nichole Gomez

Tuesday, Mar. 10

Nightly, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

South Desert between Artcraft and Redd

All side streets closed on the frontage road including Redd entrance/exit rampsAll traffic must detour to Doniphan

Crews will be working on final striping of South Desert.

Wednesday, Mar. 11

Nightly, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.

South Desert between Los Mochis and Transmountain

All side streets closed on the frontage road including Transmountain entrance/exit rampsAll traffic must detour to Doniphan

Crews will be working on final striping of South Desert.

Artcraft Project

Continuous ClosureBeginning Monday, Mar. 9 for approximately 5 months

I-10 westbound Canutillo exit ramp closed

Left lane closed at N Desert and Trade Center

Drivers will use new, westbound temporary Canutillo exit ramp located about a half mile ahead of current exit. Watch for traffic configuration change.

Monday, Mar. 9 (Weather Permitting)

4 a.m. to 12 p.m.

I-10 westbound entrance ramp between Redd and Artcraft

Crews will be working on concrete column placement.

Road Repair

Sunday, Mar. 8

5 a.m. to 4 p.m.

I-10 eastbound at Cotton three left lanes closed

Monday, Mar. 9 – Thursday, Mar. 12

Nightly, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.

I-10 eastbound between Schuster and Geronimo alternate lane closures

Guardrail / Chain-link Repair

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday, Mar. 9

US-54 (CD lanes) southbound between Cassidy and Montana left lane and entrance ramp to US-54 closed

Tuesday, Mar. 10

I-10 eastbound connecting ramp to US-54 northbound right lane closed

Wednesday, Mar. 11

Gateway South Trowbridge entrance ramp closed

Thursday, Mar. 12

Gateway West between McRae and Viscount left lane closed

Friday, Mar. 13

Zapal and Buena Vista, no closure needed

Crews will be working on chain link fence.

Maintenance

Monday, Mar. 9 – Friday, Mar. 13

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ramp N connecting Loop 375 East to US-54 North ramp closed

Loop 375 (Border Highway) east and westbound between Cordova Bridge and US-54 right lane closed

Delta eastbound between Cordova Bridge and Boone right lane closed

Paisano entrance ramp to Loop 375 East closed

Crews will be working on bridge joints.

US-54 Northbound at Martin Luther King/ Kenworthy closed

Detour: Traffic will exit through Martin Luther King Jr (Exit 31)

Gateway North between Kenworthy and Sean Haggerty left lane closed

Crews will be working on delineators.

I-10 westbound between Buena Vista and Sunland Park left lane closed

Crews will be working on guardrail.

Safety Lighting Project

Monday, March 9 – Friday, March 13

Daily, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Titanic Avenue east and westbound right shoulder closures between Howard Street and Pandora Street

North and southbound alternating lane closure:

Copia Street between Wyoming Avenue and Hueco Avenue

Dyer Street between Kemp Avenue and Van Buren Avenue

Crews will be doing shoulder work.

Mill/Fill

Tuesday, Marh. 10 – Wednesday, Mar. 11

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

I-10 east and westbound Tornillo exits closed

FM 3380 (M.F. Aguilera Rd) northbound closed before I-10 intersection

Borderland Expressway Phase 2 Project

Upcoming Weekend Closure

Saturday, Mar. 21 – Monday, Mar. 23, 24/7

Beginning 4 a.m., Saturday, Mar. 14 – 6 a.m. Monday, Mar. 16 (50 Hour Closure)

Martin Luther King (FM-3255) north and southbound between Stan Roberts (FM-2529) and O’Hara Road (NM-404)

Local traffic will be allowed to access businesses and residences between O-Hara Road and the Texas/New Mexico State LineDetour: Traffic will use NM-404, I-10, Loop 375 (Woodrow Bean/Transmountain), and US-54.

Crews will be working on a traffic switch to allow for construction of Martin Luther King new road configuration.

Purple Heart 375 Widening Project

Continuous closure beginning at 3 a.m. Saturday, March 14 – 5 a.m. Monday, March 16

Purple Heart Highway (Loop 375) southbound full closure from Montana Avenue to Spur 601

Crews will be installing culverts.

Closure Links:

West Area Project Closures

I-10 Widening West Closures

East Area Project Closures 

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Rosemary Garcia

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)—The last week of February marks Montessori Education Week.

The El Paso Independent School District provides Montessori education at various campuses. EPISD Montessori schools are part of existing elementary campuses.

Montessori education is described as a hands-on educational approach that continues to gain interest.

It was developed in 1907 by Maria Montessori. It’s characterized by its independent approach.

Students navigate their education, ultimately deciding what challenge they want to take on each school day while still learning basic concepts.

Selyna Wallace is a guide, also referred to as a teacher, at Dr. Green Montessori. She explained that Montessori focuses on the mind, body and spirit.

“Very few lessons are taught in a group, like in a normal or traditional setting. Maybe for the day you’re learning the letter A, and everyone is learning it. In a Montessori material, every child is at a different pace because every child is different,” she said.

Montessori also emphasizes social, emotional and practical life skills in addition to academics.

Wallace said, unlike traditional learning methods, Montessori students are able to learn manners, conflict resolution, how to communicate properly, and improve body movement, like learning how to pour, sweep and clean.

Students are given uninterrupted work time. They take control of their learning!

“Children are able to choose their own work that gives them a sense of responsibility,” she said.

Students are also able to collaborate with each other to imitate scenarios they’ll face one day in the real world.

“It covers a very complete understanding of what the human being needs to be able to develop them to their full potential.”

The ultimate Montessori education lessons are building confidence, becoming leaders and developing a lifelong love of learning.

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