Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER - Power Shutoffs Expected Tuesday: Xcel Energy has announced a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is likely for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, potentially affecting 14,500-15,000 customers across 14-16 Panhandle counties including Potter and Randall [1][2][3]. The shutoff is expected to begin between 8-9 a.m. and last until approximately 5 p.m., though power restoration could take several hours to several days [1][3].

Fatal Crash in North Amarillo: One person is dead after a crash in north Amarillo on Monday evening. The crash occurred on N. Fillmore between S. 1st Avenue and N. 1st [4][5]. Details remain limited as authorities investigate.

Woman Hospitalized After Mobile Home Crash: A woman suffered life-threatening injuries after crashing into a mobile home off East Amarillo Boulevard on the morning of February 12, 2026 [6].

Commercial Structure Fire Contained: A large commercial structure fire near Soncy Road and Heritage Hills is now under control [1][7].

Valentine's Day Shooting: A 28-year-old man was wounded and faces multiple charges after a shooting Saturday night near a United Supermarket [8][9].

Wildfire Near Potter/Carson County Line: A wildfire is burning near the Potter/Carson County line as critical fire conditions persist [4][5].

Weather

EXTREMELY CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER ALERT - TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17: The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning and Red Flag Warning for the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles and Eastern New Mexico

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Former Fritch Mayor Arrested: William "Billy" Robbins, a former mayor of Fritch and Baptist minister, was arrested Saturday by Amarillo police on child pornography charges [1].

Bishop Zurek Resigns: The Vatican has accepted the resignation of Bishop Patrick J. Zurek, ending his tenure as the longest-serving bishop in the history of the Diocese of Amarillo [1][4].

Commercial Structure Fire: A large commercial structure fire near Soncy Rd. & Heritage Hills has been brought under control [3].

Valentine's Day Shooting: One person was wounded and is now facing charges following a Valentine's Day shooting incident [3].

PACE Unit Pursuit: An Amarillo PACE unit pursuit ended in a rollover crash with a loaded rifle and meth recovered from the scene [3].

Gym Incident: A man was tased and arrested at Crunch Fitness after threatening to fight an officer. The individual had been kicked out of the gym the previous day for fighting another member [4].

Federal Shutdown Impact: A partial government shutdown has begun after Congress failed to agree on DHS funding. TSA agents may go without pay, potentially causing longer lines at airports, though ICE, Customs and Border Patrol agents will still be paid [6].

Weather

Critical Fire Weather Alert: A HIGH WIND WATCH and FIRE WEATHER WATCH have been issued for much of the southern High Plains. An Extremely Critical Fire Threat is expected Tuesday with 60+ MPH wind gusts possible [1][4].

Power Shutoff Preparation: Xcel Energy has announced that a Public Safety Power Shutoff may become necessary to ensure public safety amid the looming critical fire weather threat. Residents should prepare for potential outages and have emergency supplies ready [1][4].

Week Forecast: A windy week ahead with warm, dry conditions creating elevated fire danger across the region [1][3].

Emergency Preparation: Residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose outdoor items, and have evacuation plans ready. Keep devices charged and maintain emergency kits with water, food, and medications in case of power shutoffs [1].

Events

Scouting America Flag Retirement Service: Scouting America is offering a flag retirement service for President's Day. This event provides community members an opportunity to properly retire worn or damaged American flags with dignity and respect

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

On Monday, February 16, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., U.S. Marshals arrested 33-year-old fugitive Bruce Edward Cason at the Motel 6 located on East Interstate 40 in Amarillo [2]. Cason was wanted on multiple charges involving child pornography and bestiality [2]. In separate news, the Vatican has officially accepted the resignation of Bishop Patrick J. Zurek of the Diocese of Amarillo [2]. Having served since 2008, Zurek concludes his tenure as the longest-serving bishop in the history of the local diocese [2]. Additionally, a man was arrested for driving while intoxicated following a rollover crash at 1:15 a.m. on Sunday, February 15; he reportedly told officers he was en route to purchase more beer at the time of the accident [2].

Weather

The National Weather Service has issued Weather Alert Days for the upcoming week due to critical fire weather conditions across the Texas Panhandle [2]. Residents should prepare for a significant warming trend with temperatures reaching the upper 70s by Monday and Tuesday [2]. These warm temperatures, combined with dry conditions and increasing wind speeds, create a high risk for wildfires [2]. Local authorities recommend that residents avoid any outdoor burning, ensure trailer chains are not dragging to prevent sparks, and keep emergency kits ready in case of rapid fire spread [2].

Events

The Texas Route 66 Motor Tour is scheduled to pass through the Panhandle, bringing an influx of global visitors to Amarillo and surrounding towns to celebrate the historic highway's legacy [2]. For those interested in local history, the "Behind the Headlines: Preserving Panhandle History" panel will feature author S.C. Gwynne and Dr. Todd Rasberry at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum; check local listings for specific ticket pricing and afternoon session times [1]. Additionally, a memorial service for Carol Musgrove will be held on Saturday, February 14, at 11:00 a.m. at Southlawn Plaza (4400 S. Washington Street), providing a space for the community to honor a long-time resident [1].

local business

Transformation Park is set to open "The Hub," a temporary day shelter, next week [1]. Located in Amarillo, this facility will provide immediate meals, activities, and essential day services to the unhoused community [1]. This serves as a bridge until the permanent Joe and Laura Street Day Center opens next year [1]. Meanwhile, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum (PPHM) is facing an uncertain future as its board addresses public concerns regarding potential closure or significant restructuring

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Early Thursday morning, February 12, 2026, a 19-year-old driver was critically injured after crashing into a building on the 4600 block of East Amarillo Blvd [1]. The Amarillo Police Department is currently investigating the cause of the high-impact collision; the driver was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries [1]. Additionally, a convicted murderer was found competent by an Amarillo federal court on February 4 to stand trial for allegedly threatening local judges [2].

Weather

Following recent snowfall, local officials are monitoring the aftermath and testing hundreds of birds found in the area for Avian flu as a public health precaution [2]. Residents are advised to maintain standard emergency kits and stay informed via local alerts if further winter weather develops, though current efforts are focused on recovery and environmental testing [2].

Events

The Amarillo Little Theatre is currently hosting a public survey to determine its production lineup for the next season [1]. Residents have until March 1 to cast their votes online to influence the local arts scene [1]. Additionally, arena football has officially returned to the city after a two-year hiatus, providing a new professional sports option for the community [2].

local business

Fermi America has announced a major partnership with Hyundai E&C to begin Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) for four AP1000 nuclear units at the hyper-grid campus just outside of Amarillo [1]. In the nonprofit sector, Transformation Park is set to open "The Hub" soon; this temporary day shelter will be staffed by former Guyon Saunders Resource Center employees to provide essential services to the unhoused population [1].

school

The Amarillo ISD Board recently voted to reject the SB 11 prayer policy, opting instead to maintain the district’s existing flexible policy due to concerns regarding student safety and data collection [1]. In higher education, West Texas A&M University (WT) announced that over 11,000 Region 16 ESC employees and their families are now eligible for 50% off tuition and fees starting in the summer of 2026 [1]. WT also recently celebrated the reopening of the remodeled Geneva Schaeffer Education Building [2].

The Roundup

In a notable legal development, a local individual previously convicted of murder has been cleared by federal experts to face trial for making threats against members of the Amarillo judiciary [2]. On a more community-focused note, residents of The Legacy retirement community are being highlighted for their decades of shared history and local impact [1]. Meanwhile, the Amarillo City Council has placed a $30 million debt issuance on hold while they explore more cost-effective options for municipal projects [1].

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Who: The Potter Randall Appraisal District (PRAD) and Potter County Commissioners Court.
What: Chief Appraiser Jeff Dagley has implemented new safeguards following a clerical error that resulted in a $412,000 shortfall in the Potter County budget [1][2].
Where: Potter County Commissioners Court, Amarillo, TX [1].
When: Reported on February 9, 2026 [1][2].
Details: The error involved a tax exemption oversight that will impact future county budgets, prompting the district to overhaul its internal verification processes to prevent similar financial gaps [1].

Weather

While specific meteorological data for the upcoming week was not provided in the current findings, residents are advised to monitor local alerts as the city enters the mid-February season, which historically carries risks of sudden temperature shifts and high winds in the Panhandle. In the event of severe winter storms or high-wind advisories common to the region, the city recommends securing outdoor property and maintaining an emergency kit with at least three days of supplies [1].

Events

Texas Route 66 Festival Centennial Preparation
Time/Place: Various locations along historic Route 66 in Amarillo; planning is currently underway for the 2026 centennial [1].
Price: Many community events are expected to be free to the public.
Importance: Visit Amarillo is organizing this large-scale festival to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the "Mother Road," which is a vital component of Amarillo's tourism and historical identity [1].

2026 Student Heroes Award Nominations
Time/Place: Nominations are open now through April 24, 2026, via the State Board of Education [2].
Importance: This program honors local students who perform outstanding volunteer service and acts of kindness, highlighting the positive impact of Amarillo's youth on the community [2].

local business

Transformation Park’s "The Hub"
Date/Time: Opening soon (February 2026) [1].
Details: This temporary day shelter will be staffed by former Guyon Saunders Resource Center employees. It aims to provide essential services and a safe space for unhoused Amarilloans during the transition to more permanent facilities [1].

school

West Texas A&M University (WT) Tuition Discount
Details: More than 11,000 Region 16 Education Service Center employees, along with their spouses and dependents, are now eligible for a 50% discount on tuition and fees at WT [1][2].
Timeline: Eligible students can begin enrolling under this program as early as the summer 2026 semester [1].

Amarillo ISD Prayer Policy
Details: The Amarillo ISD board of trustees officially rejected the implementation of a specific SB 11 prayer policy. Instead, the board voted to maintain the district’s existing, flexible policy, citing concerns over student safety and unnecessary data collection [1].

The Roundup

In a significant move for maternal health, an Amarillo-based advocate is partnering with a state program to expand mental health resources for mothers [1]. The initiative focuses on the philosophy that support should be proactively brought to women experiencing grief or postpartum challenges rather than requiring them to seek it out during their darkest moments [1]. On the financial front, the Amarillo City Council has officially paused the issuance of $30 million in debt intended for street projects, opting to wait for more detailed estimates and alternative funding options before proceeding

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Two teenagers, Jeremiah Matthews and Landrey Matthews, were indicted on February 12, 2026, in connection with a January shooting that resulted in the death of a 15-year-old girl in Potter County [3]. Jeremiah Matthews faces one count of manslaughter, while Landrey Matthews is charged with tampering or fabricating physical evidence with intent to impair [3]. In a separate legal development, a woman was sentenced this week for her role in a 2025 drug sale, and a man pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm related to a 2025 drug trafficking charge [3]. Additionally, the FBI has increased the reward and released a description of a masked suspect involved in an incident at the Nancy Guthrie home [5].

Weather

While specific meteorological data for the upcoming week was not detailed in recent reports, the region is currently monitoring the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, which often coincides with peak winter weather awareness in the Texas Panhandle [3][4]. Residents are advised to maintain standard winter emergency kits, including blankets, non-perishable food, and water, as February remains a volatile month for sudden temperature drops and potential ice storms in the High Plains [3].

Events

The Texas Route 66 Festival is currently in active preparation by Visit Amarillo to celebrate the upcoming centennial of the historic highway [1]. For those seeking immediate activities, the Day of the Woman event, hosted by the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health, took place at the Amarillo Civic Center Grand Plaza featuring keynote speaker Amy Griffin [2]. Additionally, Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation has announced the start of 'baby season,' offering educational insights into local wildlife care [3].

local business

Transformation Park is set to open 'The Hub,' a temporary day shelter located in the space formerly occupied by the Guyon Saunders Resource Center, to continue providing essential services to the unhoused population [1]. In the private sector, Amarillo National Bank recently made a significant $1 million gift to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) to fund and expand pediatric care services in the city [3][4]. On a somber note for local foodies, Chef Ron held a heartfelt farewell event this week, serving his final signature chicken sandwiches [3].

school

West Texas A&M University (WT) has announced a major tuition expansion: starting in summer 2026, more than 11,000 Region 16 ESC employees, along with their spouses and dependents, will be eligible for a 50% discount on tuition and fees [1][2]. In K-12 news, the Amarillo ISD Board of Trustees recently voted to reject the SB 11 prayer policy, opting instead to maintain the district's existing flexible policy due to concerns regarding student safety and data collection

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

The Amarillo Police Department is requesting public assistance to locate 42-year-old Cody Gene Dikeman, who was reported missing on Feb. 5, 2026 [2]. Dikeman, who is known to experience homelessness, was last seen on Jan. 19 operating a white 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis [2]. In a separate incident, a Virginia fugitive wanted on 18 counts of child exploitation and bestiality was apprehended at an Amarillo motel [2]. Additionally, a Potter County grand jury has indicted 17-year-old Jeremiah Luke Matthews in connection with the New Year’s Day shooting death of a 15-year-old girl [4].

Weather

The forecast for the upcoming week shows mild conditions with a high of 67°F on Friday, cooling to 55°F by Saturday [4]. While no major storms are currently forecasted, residents are encouraged to monitor local updates as conditions in the Panhandle can shift rapidly. No specific emergency preparations or city-wide storm advisories have been issued for this period [4].

Events

The Goodnight Ranch will host “Frontier Voices: Black Cowboys and Buffalo Soldiers” this Saturday, Feb. 14 [2]. This event highlights the historical contributions of Black cowboys to the region's heritage; attendees should contact the venue for specific pricing and times [2]. Additionally, the State Board of Education is now accepting nominations through April 24 for the 2026 Student Heroes Award, which recognizes local students for outstanding acts of kindness and volunteer service [1].

local business

Transformation Park is set to open The Hub, a temporary day shelter, next week (the week of Feb. 16) [1]. Located in Amarillo, The Hub will provide essential day services, including meals and activities for unhoused individuals, while the permanent Joe Hamilton facility is under development [1]. In the industrial sector, a lawsuit has been filed against Tokai Carbon CB following a recent explosion at their Borger plant that resulted in worker injuries [2][5].

school

West Texas A&M University (WT) has announced a significant tuition incentive: more than 11,000 employees of the Region 16 Education Service Center, along with their spouses and dependents, are now eligible for 50% off tuition and fees [1]. Furthermore, local higher education institutions, including Amarillo area colleges, are reporting a surge in growth based on the newly released Spring 2026 enrollment numbers [2].

The Roundup

A significant financial and infrastructure update involves the Amarillo City Council's decision to table a $30 million debt plan intended for street repairs

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

The Amarillo City Council unanimously approved resolutions supporting four proposed affordable and workforce housing developments across the city at their February 10 meeting. The projects could add more than 275 rent-restricted units if state tax credits are awarded through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs [1][2][3]. The proposed developments are planned near Bell Street and Southwest Ninth Avenue; Southwest 45th Avenue and South Coulter Street; Southeast 28th Avenue; and Southeast 34th Avenue and Ross Street. These include the Amarillo Lofts project with at least 85 units at rental rates between $1,000-$1,300, and the Tuscany Point project with approximately 73 units at rental rates between $500-$1,200 [2][3]. Councilmember Don Tipps emphasized this funding does not involve city tax dollars and targets working- and middle-income residents increasingly strained by rising rents and home prices [1].

Before public comment began at the same meeting, the council withdrew and tabled Ordinance No. 8236, which would have authorized the issuance of $30,310,000 in Certificates of Obligation for street resurfacing, reconstruction, and construction projects. Mayor Cole Stanley indicated the delay was tied to financial review and timing issues with local public improvement districts rather than cancellation of the projects [1][4]. Certificates of Obligation allow municipalities to issue debt for public works projects without voter approval, with repayment incorporated into future city budgets that can ultimately affect property tax rates [1][4].

The City of Amarillo Municipal Court launched a compliance campaign beginning February 9, running through March 6, allowing residents with outstanding warrants or unpaid citations to voluntarily resolve their cases without risk of arrest. Warrant notification postcards are being mailed to affected individuals. Options may include setting up payment plans, appearing before a judge or jury, or completing community service. The City Marshal's Office is expected to begin serving outstanding warrants the week of March 9 if cases remain unresolved [5][6][7].

Amarillo Fire Department responded to a crash on East Amarillo Boulevard near South Highway 136, with Life Star on scene [8]. Additionally, two people were arrested following a shooting at the Discovery Center parking lot that ended with a crash into a home [9].

Weather

City officials referenced an "impending winter blast" in January, and recent news has mentioned continuing chances for snow looking ahead into early February [9]

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Scammers are using new Amarillo Police Chief Thomas Hover's name to target residents with false claims about federal warrants and threats of immediate arrest if payment isn't made [1]. The Amarillo Police Department warns that the Chief of Police does not call residents about warrants, APD does not call demanding money, and no advance warning is given before serving warrants [1].

Wildhorse fire burning in North Heights area of Amarillo started around 12:40 p.m. in the wooded area that used to be Amarillo Lake [1]. Crews are actively battling the grass fire as conditions remain critical [1].

A major crash at the intersection of the I-40 frontage road and Paramount Blvd left a motorcyclist with life-threatening injuries after both vehicles reportedly disregarded traffic controls [1].

Seventy-two pounds of methamphetamine was found hidden in tires of a vehicle during a traffic stop in Carson County [1].

Jeff Dagley, chief appraiser of Potter Randall Appraisal District, reported to Potter County Commissioners Court on Feb. 9 about new safeguards implemented after a clerical error caused the county to overestimate tax revenue by $412,000 [2]. The error will impact future county budgets [2][3].

The Armstrong County Sheriff's Office is seeking public help locating Ramon Ayala III, a 34-year-old Hispanic male from Houston/Brownsville area [1]. An abandoned car was found near canyon, prompting the search [1].

A teen was sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing two people after running a red light at over 80 miles per hour [1].

Bomb threats left through voicemail at schools in Canyon and Amarillo prompted evacuations Friday morning, but no active threat was found at either location [1][4]. Canyon police said there was no danger to students or staff [1].

Weather

Critical fire weather conditions are expected across the Panhandles Monday afternoon, with warm temperatures, dry air, and strong winds creating dangerous conditions that could allow fires to spread quickly [1]. The Texas Panhandle remains under elevated fire risk as the region continues through winter season [1].

Events

Arena football returns to Amarillo after a two-year gap on March 13 at the Amarillo Civic Center with the debut game of the Amarillo Warbirds [5]. The team relocated from Odessa under ownership of Amarillo-area businessman Leif Kertis and other local owners [5].

Amarillo Little Theatre's upcoming production of 'Jersey Boys' continues its run at the downtown venue, featuring the story of the legendary 1960s rock group The Four Seasons [6].

West Texas A&M University Theatre is presenting an innovative take on the classic love story 'Pride and Prejudice' with comedy and chaos meeting romance in this novel adaptation [2].

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport will host a TSA PreCheck enrollment event for travelers seeking expedited screening [1].

local business

Fermi America confirmed construction on its 'Project Matador' site near Amarillo has been paused while th...

Amarillo TX Local News

Breaking news

Woman Wanted for Aggravated Assault: Amarillo Crime Stoppers is actively searching for a woman wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon [1]. Authorities are seeking public assistance in locating the suspect.

Major Crash Under Investigation: The Amarillo Police Department Traffic Unit is investigating a major crash at the intersection of I-40 and Paramount Blvd . No further details have been released at this time.

Vehicle Fire Shuts Down I-40 Exit: A car on fire has forced the closure of Exit 70 (Buchanan St./Highway 287/I-27 interchange) on I-40 . The incident occurred in the early morning hours.

SWAT Standoff Results in Arrest: One man was taken into custody following a SWAT standoff at the Eddison apartments on Monday night . Law enforcement successfully resolved the situation.

$650,000 Meth Bust: Amarillo authorities arrested a man after a drug smuggling investigation uncovered approximately $650,000 worth of methamphetamine . The significant seizure highlights ongoing drug enforcement efforts in the area.

Traffic Alert: Fulton Drive just east of Bell Street remains temporarily closed between Holiday Drive and Harmony Street due to water main installation for the Ridgecrest neighborhood development [2]. Eastbound traffic is detoured at Holiday Drive and westbound traffic detours southbound at Harmony Street [2]. The closure is expected to continue through Friday, February 6 [2].

Tax Services Operating Normally: Despite a brief partial government lapse, IRS services have not been impacted or delayed as tax season gets underway [1]. Residents can proceed with tax filings without interruption.

Weather

No major weather events or storm systems are forecast for the Amarillo area in the upcoming week based on current information. No emergency preparation measures are currently being announced by city officials.

Events

Vote for Amarillo in Mural Competition: Amarillo has been selected as one of 10 Texas towns to participate in Star Spangled Texas, a mural competition led by Texas Monthly Studio and presented by Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages as part of the America 250 celebration . Residents can vote online to support Amarillo's entry in this statewide competition that celebrates local art and community pride.

Amarillo Little Theatre Presents 'Jersey Boys': The juke-box musical about Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons is currently showing at Amarillo Little Theatre [3]. The production gives audiences a behind-the-microphone look at the real lives of the legendary music group, promising audiences will leave thinking "Oh, what a night" [3].

West Texas A&M University Theatre's 'Pride and Prejudice': WTAMU Theatre is offering an innovative take on the classic love story with their adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice' [3]. The production combines comedy and chaos with romance in what promises to be a novel theatrical experience [3].

local business

Project Matador Construction Continues: Fermi America's Project Matador site remains active with construction happening at what the company describes as "Fermi speed" [3]. CEO and cofounder Toby Neugebauer confirmed that the first phase of construction has been completed and work continues to progress [3]. However, rumors of construction worker layoffs have surfaced, with the Amarillo Tribune reaching out to Fermi America for clarification on the workforce situation [3].

Amarillo Children's Home Receives Major Grant: Parkhill has awarded the Amarillo Children's Home a $40,000 grant to purchase a new 12-passenger van [1]. This grant will help the organization better serve the community's children in need [1].

school

BizTown Program Engages Students: Amarillo elementary students are practicing responsibility and money management through the BizTown program, where the "Mayor of BizTown" recently discussed street patrol with the Amarillo Chief of Police [3]. The hands-on educational experience gives young students insight into community leadership and civic engagement [3].

West Texas A&M University Educational Building Opens: WTAMU has opened the newly remodeled Geneva Schaeffer Educa...