Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Amarillo officials are investigating a significant avian flu outbreak after the City collected 300-350 dead birds across the area in recent days. The birds were found at locations including McDonald Lake and John Stiff Park, with some displaying symptoms such as stumbling or twitching. Testing is currently underway to confirm avian influenza, though no human or other animal cases have been reported as of February 4. Health officials are urging residents to avoid sick or dead birds to prevent potential transmission. [1][4][7]

A 19-year-old male suspect remains in custody after being denied bond in connection with a shooting at the Don Harrington Discovery Center parking lot on February 1. According to court documents, the teen allegedly fired multiple shots with an AR-style rifle during the incident, which led to a police chase and a crash into a nearby home. Multiple people were injured, with at least one person still hospitalized. Two suspects are currently facing charges. The Discovery Center is now pushing for overnight security measures to prevent similar incidents. [2][7]

Tifany Adams has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty to her role in the murder of two women whose bodies were buried in a freezer. The sentencing was handed down by a Texas County judge, bringing closure to a case that shocked the local community. [5]

Amarillo's first Safe Haven Baby Box was officially dedicated at a local fire station, providing a secure, anonymous location for parents to surrender newborns safely. The installation represents a collaborative effort between city leaders and child welfare organizations. [5][7]

Weather

Temperatures are expected to warm significantly in the coming days, with current readings around 35°F and forecasts calling for highs of 70°F on Friday and 74°F on Saturday. This warming trend follows a period of extreme cold weather that previously forced the closure of city facilities and modified transit schedules. [5][7]

During the recent extreme cold event, the City of Amarillo implemented emergency preparations including continued sanding operations on overpasses, arterial intersections, and other priority areas identified in the Snow and Ice Control Plan. Essential services including fire, police, utilities, and street crews remained operational throughout. Residents were advised to monitor official channels and make travel decisions based on current conditions. [1]

Events

Texas Route 66 Centennial Kickoff – June 4-13, 2026. Amarillo has been selected as one of five official "satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-off celebration. This designation provides unprecedented special event opportunities for the city, highlighting Amarillo's historic connection to America's Main Street. [7]

Amarillo Lincoln Reagan Dinner – Featuring guest speaker Dr. Ben Carson. Tickets are currently on sale for this political fundraising event, which brings prominent conservative speakers to the Amarillo community. Specific venue and time details were not provided in available sources. [2]

Goodwill Industries Job Fair – Tuesday. Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas is inviting job seekers to attend a job fair in Amarillo. The event aims to connect local employers with job seekers in the region. Specific time and location details were not provided in available sources. [3]

local business

Duos Edge is establishing a new data center in downtown Amarillo after the Potter County Commissioners voted to lease a portion of the parking lot outside the Santa Fe Building for $18,000 over the next five years. Local economic development leaders describe this as just the beginning of a data center boom in Amarillo, with opportunities for additional major companies to invest in the area. Real estate data indicates the housing market remains stable with 741 homes currently on the market, helping support the local economy. [6]

A new prepaid parking program has been launched at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, offering travelers additional payment options. The program aims to improve convenience for airport users. Specific implementation details and pricing information were not provided in available sources. [5]

school

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