Category: kvia-local-news

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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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.

Click here to follow the original article.

Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The Texas Department of Public Safety asked the public for information about a 1995 murder that happened in East El Paso. Friday, the DPS said the reward for information leading to an arrest increased to $6,000.

On Feb. 7, 1995, 30-year-old Celia Loya called her colleagues at American Sling to let them know she’d be late to work that day. DPS said she never arrived.

Pictures of Celia Loya, who was murdered in 1995, according to the Texas DPS.(Courtesy: Texas DPS)

Her husband checked their home on Lake Champlain Street and found her body on the bathroom floor, severely beaten, according to DPS.

DPS said Loya died from blood loss stemming from blunt force trauma injuries to her head and body. Officials also found signs of an apparent struggle in the living room.

Years after her murder, investigators developed and followed several leads, interviewed people and examined evidence to find who killed Loya. DPS no arrests have ever been made in connection to the murder.

More than 30 years later, the El Paso Police Department and Texas rangers are asking the public for help as they continue to investigate Loya’s murder.

Authorities believe the public may have information that could solve the case, including details about Loya’s activities and whereabouts leading up to her death. DPS is looking for anyone who may have seen her or been in the area during the morning of the murder.

To be eligible for cash rewards, people must provide information to authorities using specific methods, DPS said. Tips can be given through the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477) or online.

If you use the online form, select “Cold Cases Featured” and “Cold Case” in the type of crime and offense type sections.

As part of a DPS public awareness program, one case from the Texas Ranger Unsolved Crimes Investigation (Cold Case) Program is featured bi-monthly to generate new investigative leads and bring attention to these cold cases. Texas Crime Stoppers rewards are increased up to $6,000 for featured cases to generate tips. The higher reward will only be paid if the tip is submitted before the next cold case is featured.

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Nichole Gomez

El Paso, TX (KVIA-TV)-The Texas Department of Transportation of El Paso is urging motorists to exercise increased caution when driving through the state’s oil and gas producing regions, where nearly a quarter of all Texas traffic fatalities occur. Last year, 860 people lost their lives in traffic crashes across the state’s five main energy regions, including the Permian Basin. While this represents a 16% decrease in fatalities compared to 2024, officials emphasize that the number remains unacceptably high.

Energy sector operations necessitate the constant presence of large trucks, tankers, and heavy machinery on local roads. These vehicles can restrict visibility and reduce maneuvering space for other drivers. TxDOT is reminding drivers to give big trucks plenty of space, avoid their blind spots, and only pass when it is safe and legal.

“Speeding and distracted driving are the two leading factors contributing to crashes in these areas,” said Lauren Macias-Cervantes, a TxDOT El Paso spokesperson. “Tailgating is another major issue. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for everyone’s safety.”

To address the issue, TxDOT has rolled out an interactive traffic safety exhibit, set to visit high school football games throughout the energy sector. The campaign is supported by radio and TV public service announcements, including a message that urges drivers to slow down, put away their phones, and give large trucks space on the road.

In addition to public outreach, TxDOT is investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades to improve safety. Between fiscal year 2018 and May 2025, the department approved $2.8 billion for projects across the energy sector. Another $2.7 billion in funding is earmarked for similar projects over the next decade.

Drivers in these regions should also anticipate several road closures next week due to ongoing construction and repairs. Notable closures include full nighttime closures of South Desert between Vinton and Logwood for wall placement on October 19 and 22, as well as alternate lane closures on I-10 Westbound between Copia and Downtown. Additional repairs and ramp closures are scheduled on Cotton, Spur 601, and US-54.

TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” initiative underscores the importance of vigilance and patience on Texas roads, especially in areas where heavy industry meets everyday traffic.

Closures ( courtesy of Tx Dot El Paso):

I-10 Widening West Phase II

Monday, October 19

Thursday, October 22

9 p.m. – 6 a.m. (Nightly)

South Desert between Vinton and Logwood full closure.

Detour: Traffic to exit a Vinton towards Doniphan, proceed South on Doniphan, and proceed East on Los Mochis for access to South Desert.

Crews will be placing walls.

Saturday, October 24 – Monday, October 26

3 a.m. – 6 a.m. (51-Hr Closure)

I-10 eastbound between Anthony and Transmountain full closure

Detour: Traffic on South Desert, proceed through intersection at Anthony and Vinton, then enter I-10 eastbound after Los Mochis.

Crews will be placing bridge deck.

Borderland Expressway Phase 2 Project

Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

Daily, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.

US-54 east and westbound between Mesquite Hills and McCombs alternate lane closures Mesquite Hills reduced to one lane between US-54 and Red Man Flaggers will be on-site directing traffic as needed for haul trucks crossing Mesquite Hills

Daily, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Flaggers will be on-site directing traffic as needed for haul trucks crossing at McCombs and Stan Roberts intersection

Crews will be working on bridge work and transporting earth embankment into the project.

Saturday, October 24 – Monday, October 26

4 a.m. – 6 a.m.  (50-Hr. Alternate Lane Closure)

US-54 east and westbound between Mesquite Hills and McCombs alternate lane closures

Crews will be working on a traffic switch to allow for construction of US-54 overpass and new road configuration.

Loop 375 Rehabilitation Project

Sunday, October 18 – Thursday, October 22

7 p.m. – 6 a.m. (Nightly)

Loop 375 (Border Highway) west and eastbound between Fonseca and Oregon alternate lane closures US-54 southbound exit ramp (Exit 20) full closure Loop 375 (Border Highway) westbound exit ramp (Exit 20) to US-54 East (Exit 20) and I-10 West full closure Paisano exit ramp to Loop 375 eastbound closed Loop 375 (Border Highway) eastbound exit ramp (Exit 58) and I-10 full closure

Crews will be working on mow strip and guardrail.

Montana Widening Project

Monday, October 19 – Tuesday, October 23, 2026

Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Montana Avenue westbound frontage road left lane closure from Saul Kleinfeld Drive to Tierra Este Drive.

Crews will be working on rip rap.

Purple Heart 375 Widening Project

Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

Daily 5 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Loop 375 north and southbound alternating lane closures between Montana Avenue and Spur 601

Crews will be doing shoulder work.

FM 76-Pedestrian Improvements Project

Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

Daily, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

North Loop Drive westbound right lane closure between Rose Lane Circle to Delta Drive

Crews will be working on replacing sidewalks and driveways.

Districtwide Striping Project

9 p.m. – 4 a.m. 

Sunday, Oct. 18

Loop 375 (Transmountain) east and westbound between Border Patrol Museum and McCombs mobile operations SH-20 (Doniphan) north and southbound between Borderland Rd to New Mexico State Line mobile operations BU-54A (Dyer) north and southbound to Texas/New Mexico State Line mobile operations FM-76 (North Loop) east and westbound between SH 20 (Alameda Ave) and FM 793 (Fabens) mobile operations FM-659 (Zaragoza) north and southbound between North Loop Dr and US 62 (Montana) mobile operations

Road Repairs

Monday, October 19 – Thursday, October 22

9 p.m. – 6 a.m. (Nightly)

I-10 westbound between Copia and Downtown alternate lane closures

Guardrail Repair

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Monday, October 19

US-54 southbound between Montana and I-10 east connecting ramp left lane closed Entrance ramps between CD lanes and US-54 southbound closed

Tuesday, October 20

I-10 westbound between Piedras and Cotton exit right lane closed

Wednesday, October 21

I-10 westbound connecting amp to US-54 northbound right lane closed

Thursday, October 22

Loop 375 eastbound between Yarbrough and Padres right lane closed

Concrete Work

Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Desert North between Artcraft and Transmountain right lane closed

Maintenance

Sunday, October 18

5 a.m. – 4 p.m.

US-54 South right lane closed

Crews working on bridge joints.

Monday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cotton north and southbound between San Antonio and Delta alternate lane closures Spur 601 east and westbound between US-54 and Chaffee alternate lane closures Entrance ramp from US-54 North to Spur 601 east closed Entrance ramp from US-54 South to Spur 601 east closed Railroad entrance to Spur 601 east closed Chaffee entrance ramp to Spur 601 west closed

Crews will be working on bridge repairs.

I-10 East between Mesa and Resler left lane closed

Crews will be cleaning.

I-10 West between Raynolds and US-54 right lane closed I-10 East between Raynolds and Copia exit right lane closed Copia Exit will be closed I-10 East between Paisano and Trowbridge right lane closed Trowbridge Exit will be closed

Crews will be installing signs.

Districtwide Bridge Maintenance

Sunday, October 19 – Friday, October 23

9 p.m. – 6 a.m. (Nightly)

I-10 east and westbound at Schuster alternate lane closures I-10 east and westbound at Chelsea alternate lane closures Click here to follow the original article.