A Thursday morning fire in El Campo destroyed a mobile home on Pinchot Street, displacing three adults but causing no injuries. The blaze, traced to the furnace, quickly spread through the ductwork, heavily damaging the east side of the 1990-built trailer owned by Jose A. Murillo. Fire Chief Jimmy George Jr. reported that residents heard … Read more
Bay City police arrested a 32-year-old Angleton man after a chaotic theft and car chase on Tuesday afternoon. Detectives at Walmart for an unrelated case were alerted by staff about a theft in progress. The suspect, Brandon Land, reportedly ignored commands, fled in his vehicle, and struck an officer’s parked truck during the pursuit. The … Read more
The Wharton High School tennis program showcased another stellar season, clinching their 10th consecutive district championship by defeating unbeaten rival Bellville 11-8. In the playoffs, Wharton dominated Austin Travis 11-0 in bi-district and swept Sweeny 19-0 to secure the area title. Their season ended in the regional quarterfinals with a hard-fought 10-5 loss to Caldwell. … Read more
An El Campo family faces serious prison time after being indicted for an alleged armed robbery tied to a dispute over a window air-conditioning unit. The August 22nd incident escalated hours after the purchase, leading to threats at gunpoint that left two people fearing for their lives. Richard Bustamante Sr., 55, Hope Bustamante, 53, Richard … Read more
El Campo ISD and Parkhill architects unveiled three potential designs for a new high school at a community meeting Monday night, focusing on improving facilities ahead of an $81–$83 million dollar bond election in May. The proposed $52 million dollar project includes a two-story central building for administrative offices, the library, cafeteria, and band halls, … Read more
El Campo will soon use an unmanned mower for difficult-to-reach areas like ditches and creek beds, approved by the city council. The radio-controlled mower will reduce the use of herbicides, saving around $34,000 annually. City Manager Courtney Sladek highlighted its safety, as it can navigate steep slopes and water. Public Works Director Kevin Thompson noted … Read more
Jackson County officials are moving forward with plans to upgrade boater access at the Lavaca River near FM 616. Commissioners approved a $500,000 grant-funded agreement with Freese & Nichols, Inc., to design shoreline preservation and improvements to the boat ramp and parking area. Additional funding could come from Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act resources. … Read more
The Wharton Police Department is enhancing public safety with new technology. The City Council approved their request to apply for a grant to add five Flock cameras, boosting the city’s network to 14 units. These AI-powered cameras scan and log vehicle details, aiding in tracking stolen cars and criminal activity. Police Chief Terry Lynch called … Read more
In October, Linnie Roberts Elementary School in Bay City raised $1,720 to help local women access mammograms through the Matagorda Regional Medical Center Foundation. Each week, students, families, and staff collected donations and sold items, with proceeds going towards updating 3D software and providing mammograms regardless of patients’ ability to pay. Principal Marissa Wendel emphasized … Read more
Wharton County Junior College Foundation is entering a new chapter with Gary Gillen as board president and Bruce Krauskopf as vice president. Gillen, a long-time local business owner, aims to strengthen scholarships, alumni connections, and campus initiatives. Under his leadership, WCJC is launching the Former Students and Friends Association to reconnect alumni and enhance support … Read more