Major Bridge Replacement

A major $26.9 million dollar project is underway on State Highway 35, replacing the bridge over the Colorado River. The Texas Department of Transportation is leading the 3.5-year effort, with construction split into two 18-month phases. Mitch Thames from the Bay City Chamber of Commerce emphasized that while the bridge isn’t in immediate danger, it’s … Read more

Bull Rider Dies

A tragic accident at the Wharton County Youth Fair claimed the life of 24-year-old bull rider Dylan Grant from Laramie, Wyoming. He was fatally injured Thursday night after being stepped on by a bull during the Extreme Bulls event. El Campo EMS and firefighters responded quickly, airlifting Grant to a Houston hospital, where he died. … Read more

Crucible Recovery Center

In response to a spike in drug-related 911 calls in Bay City, a new shelter is giving addicts a second chance. Crucible Recovery Center, led by former missionary Scott Patten, now offers food, shelter, and support to those struggling with addiction. Patten, once an addict himself, uses the donated property to guide others toward recovery. … Read more

Woman Charged with Murder

An El Campo woman is charged with murder after allegedly supplying fentanyl that caused a deadly overdose. Samantha Nicole Martinez, 35, was arrested April 2nd during a traffic stop near U.S. 59 and FM 961. She’s accused in the February death of 34-year-old Destinee Pesina. Wharton County officials say this is their first murder case … Read more

Victoria Woman Faces Felony Charges

A 28-year-old Victoria woman, Kori Rae Trevino, faces multiple felony charges following her arrest on March 29th. She’s accused of mail theft, forgery, fraud, and drug possession. The charges stem from an investigation by the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office. Trevino allegedly took mail from over 50 addresses, stealing personal info from 38 victims. She also … Read more

Athletic Director Resigns

The Louise Hornets are searching for a new athletic director after Manny Freeland stepped down last week. Freeland had been with the district since ’22, starting as the football team’s offensive coordinator. In his two seasons as head coach, he led the Hornets to a 10-12 record and back-to-back playoff appearances. Freeland leaves a legacy … Read more

Singing Women of Texas Return

The Singing Women of Texas are bringing gospel music back to Bay City this Sunday at 6 p.m. First Baptist Church, on Avenue F, will host the free concert, featuring hymns, contemporary Christian songs, and lively tunes. Minister of Music Kevin Hoggard says the church is thrilled to welcome back the group, expecting around 50 … Read more

Man Freed After Year in Jail

A Port Lavaca man is free after spending over a year in jail for breaking into a highway patrol office in Pierce. Lorenzo Ali Hisquierdo, 49, admitted to throwing a brick through the DPS office door in Feb of ’24, stealing only a can of soda. Security cameras recorded the crime, and dispatchers alerted officers … Read more

Smoke Off Fires Up Competition

The 6th Annual Riverside Smoke Off brought 22 teams and 145 participants to compete in 11 categories, plus eight kids in the Kid’s Cook contest. Despite the pressure, teams kept the event lively. Turning Point, a group of church members blending Texas barbecue with Mexican flavors, won the Chef’s Choice award after offering samples on … Read more

El Campo Cracking Down

El Campo is cracking down on makeshift car lots with a new ordinance now in effect. The City Council unanimously approved the measure to curb vehicle sales in public and commercial areas. Parking a car for sale in shopping centers, public streets, or even private driveways without approval is now a Class C misdemeanor. Businesses … Read more