The Amarillo 5

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

A motorcycle driver was transported to a hospital on Wednesday after a wreck involving another vehicle in northeast Amarillo. Details regarding the specific location and condition of the driver have not yet been released [1].

TxDOT Amarillo is urging drivers to be cautious as they discuss work zone awareness this week. Jason Britsch with TxDOT Amarillo appeared on Today in Amarillo to remind residents about the importance of slowing down and staying alert in construction areas to protect both drivers and workers [2].

Weather:

No significant weather events or storms are currently forecasted for Amarillo in the immediate week ahead. Residents should continue to monitor local forecasts for any changes. With TxDOT emphasizing work zone awareness, drivers are reminded to exercise caution on roadways regardless of weather conditions [2].

Events:

West Texas Ranch Rodeo: The West Texas Ranch Rodeo returns to Amarillo, featuring 20 ranch-based teams competing in working ranch events. The event includes Women's Ranch Bronc Riding and celebrates the tradition and spirit of West Texas rodeo. This event highlights Amarillo's deep western heritage and draws visitors to the region [3][4].

School of Rock at Amarillo Little Theatre: The Amarillo Little Theatre will present the musical "School of Rock" from April 30 through May 17 at the Allen Shankles Mainstage. Based on the 2003 Jack Black film, this production invites audiences to join the band for an energetic theatrical experience [5].

Art After Dark at Amarillo Museum of Art: The Amarillo Museum of Art is hosting "Art After Dark" on June 20, featuring multiple exhibits, live music, and interactive events. This community event offers residents an opportunity to engage with local art and culture [6].

local business:

No specific business openings, closings, or major promotional events were reported in today's findings. Residents are encouraged to support local businesses and check for community updates.

school:

Amarillo ISD students are working with Pantex to streamline operations at the district's vehicle fleet maintenance shop. This partnership provides students with hands-on experience while helping the district improve efficiency [6].

The executive director of the National Association of Basketball Coaches emphasized that coaches' input is "vital" in ongoing discussions about age-based eligibility rules. These discussions could impact high school and college athletics programs [7].

The Roundup:

Amarillo continues to celebrate its western heritage, with the city selected to host the Miss Rodeo Texas pageant next year. Kashion Smith, executive director of Visit Amarillo, noted that western heritage is what visitors seek when coming to Amarillo, home to the American Quarter Horse Association [8].

In national news with local relevance, Warner Bros shareholders have backed an $81 billion Paramount takeover in a preliminary vote, a deal that could reshape the media landscape and impact entertainment options for Amarillo residents [9]. Additionally, U.S. lawmakers continue working on artificial intelligence regulations as the technology advances rapidly, with no single regulatory framework currently in place [10].

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news

Emergency crews are currently responding to a wreck in South Amarillo near Lakeside Drive, which has closed the road in both directions [2]. In crime news, federal authorities have charged an Amarillo man and woman in connection with 5,000 fentanyl pills [7]. Additionally, a woman was arrested following a stabbing incident at an Amarillo apartment complex on Tuesday night [7]. On the fire front, Randall County crews have successfully contained two grass fires, and another grass fire near North Grand Street and Northeast 24th Avenue has also been contained [7].

Weather

Forecasts indicate possible thunderstorms toward the end of the week . Residents should remain aware of changing conditions. While specific emergency preparations for the storms were not detailed, local fire crews have been active in containing grass fires in Randall County and near North Grand Street, highlighting the ongoing fire weather risk in the region [7].

Events

The Friends of the Amarillo Public Library will host their first book sale of 2026 from April 24-26 at the Downtown Library basement. A Friends-only night is scheduled for Friday, April 24 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:.m., with the public sale running Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and a special $5 per bag sale on Sunday [4]. In local arts, West Texas A&M University Dance will conclude its season with 'Portraits of Dance' performances exploring themes of grief and community from May 1-3 [5].

local business

Pantex has officially cut the ribbon on its new downtown Pantex Amarillo Campus located in the Happy State Bank Building. This move brings more than 400 employees into the central business district, a significant economic injection for downtown Amarillo .

school

Students at AmTech Career Academy recently presented final projects after a 13-week industrial consultant project collaboration with Pantex, aimed at developing workforce skills [1]. In sports, four Lady Sandies have qualified for state tennis, and Madden Myers has qualified for state golf [3].

The Roundup

In a significant federal law enforcement action, an Amarillo man and woman have been charged after authorities seized 5,000 fentanyl pills, a major bust for local public safety [7]. Separately, Transformation Park is celebrating its one-year anniversary of service with a community cleanup event this Thursday [6].

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

A Potter County jury has sentenced 40-year-old George Allen Rogers to life in prison for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child [1]. In other legal news, a man awaiting trial for alleged abuse of a corpse died in custody; the Potter County Sheriff's Office attributed the death to pneumonia and pre-existing medical conditions [2]. Regarding local economic developments, Fermi Inc. announced the resignation of its CFO and revealed strategic and leadership changes with its board at its Dallas headquarters [3].

Weather:

The Texas Panhandle is experiencing an intensification of drought conditions, contrasting with statewide improvements that have reached a two-month low [4]. Residents should prepare for a warm and windy week, bringing elevated to critical fire weather risks each day [5]. There is a low chance for strong to severe thunderstorms in the eastern panhandles on Wednesday [5]. Emergency preparation tips include adhering to fire prevention guidelines to help mitigate fire starts during these critical conditions [5].

Events:

Southwest AMBUCS is preparing to celebrate Derby Day; the organization appeared on local media to discuss the upcoming event [6]. For youth interested in the arts, Broadway stars Sandra Joseph and Ron Bohmer will conduct a master class for Amarillo Little Theatre Academy students prior to the Power of the Purse event [7]. Additionally, Family Support Services of Amarillo is hosting community events throughout April in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month [8].

local business:

Gas prices in Amarillo have seen a slight decrease, falling by 0.6 cents to average $3.34 per gallon as of Monday [9]. In the aerospace sector, Bell Textron Inc. reported that nacelle upgrades for the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey have achieved a 75% improvement in readiness for Air Force Special Operations Command [10].

school:

West Texas A&M University's Forensics team placed fifth in their division at the National Speech Tournament, with one student advancing to the quarterfinals [11]. In local sports, Caprock Longhorn Bryson Butler signed to play football for Wayland Baptist University [12].

The Roundup:

Highlighting a story of survival, a Wichita Falls man survived for an hour without a pulse thanks to the quick actions of neighbors and paramedics [13]. In national news, animal welfare protesters converged on the Wisconsin governor's office seeking the release of beagles

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Texas Highway System Drops in National Rankings: Texas' highway system has fallen two spots since 2025 and now ranks No. 27 in the country for cost-effectiveness and overall conditions, according to a new report. This decline could impact infrastructure planning and funding priorities for the Amarillo region and across the state .

Oil Prices Surge Amid US-Iran Standoff: Oil prices climbed more than 5% in early trading as a standoff between Iran and the U.S. prevented tankers from using the Strait of Hormuz. This development is particularly relevant for the Texas energy sector and could affect local gas prices in the Amarillo area .

Weather:

Live weather cameras and interactive radar tools are available for Amarillo residents to monitor current conditions through KAMR Local 4 News [2]. Residents are encouraged to utilize these resources for real-time weather updates. No major storm systems were detailed in the current forecast information available.

Events:

High Plains History: Will Rogers Range Riders: A special edition of High Plains History featured Guy Bell and Ty Trammell with the Will Rogers Range Riders discussing the organization's heritage and activities. This segment highlights an important piece of Amarillo's western culture and community traditions .

local business:

Tariff Refunds Available for Businesses: A refund system is now available for businesses that paid tariffs which the U.S. Supreme Court ruled were imposed without proper authority. Businesses can begin claiming refunds starting Monday. Local Amarillo businesses that were affected by these tariffs should consult with legal or financial advisors to determine eligibility .

school:

No specific Amarillo area school news was available in the current research findings. The findings included national stories about school safety incidents in other states, but no local academic or sports updates for Amarillo elementary, middle, high schools, or colleges were reported.

The Roundup:

Politics Today Weekly Review: KAMR Local 4 News Anchor Mari Ferrel reviewed multiple recent political developments in the April 19, 2026 episode of Politics Today. The segment provides Amarillo residents with local perspective on regional and national political issues [1].

FBI and Justice Department Workforce Concerns: The FBI and Justice Department are scrambling to rebuild a depleted workforce after a wave of departures over the past year. Leaders are working to address concerns about potentially looser standards as they rush to fill positions, which could impact federal law enforcement presence in regions including West Texas [3].

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Xcel Energy Withdraws Solar Project: Xcel Energy has officially withdrawn the proposed Oneida 2 solar project from regulatory proceedings in Texas and New Mexico, announcing it will not move forward with construction in Amarillo's Rolling Hills neighborhood following community opposition. The decision came after residents raised concerns about flooding, noise, wildlife displacement, and property values at an Oct. 7 meeting at Pleasant Valley Methodist Church. Potter County Commissioner John Coffee called the outcome "the power of a community working together" [3].

Carson County Fire: The Texas A&M Forest Service reports crews are responding to the "Pump Jack" fire burning in Carson County, which has grown to 400 acres and is 0% contained as of the latest report .

Garage Fire in North Amarillo: The Amarillo Fire Department responded to a garage fire in north Amarillo on Saturday at approximately 9:06 p.m. No injuries were reported .

Former Pantex Plant Manager Passes Away: Dr. Clyde D. Alley, former plant manager of the Pantex Nuclear Weapons Facility near Amarillo, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 16 at the age of 93. Alley served as vice-president and plant manager of Pantex from 1988 until 1996 and was known for his impactful career in the nuclear defense industry .

Weather:

Xcel Energy is preparing for increased electricity demand as colder weather approaches the Texas and New Mexico regions over the upcoming holiday weekend. The company is urging customers to utilize available tools and tips to keep power bills manageable while staying warm during the cold snap [5]. Additionally, drought conditions across the contiguous United States have reached record levels for this time of year, raising concerns about potential fires, water supply, and food prices .

Events:

Free Clothing Event for Women: Dozens of women gathered Saturday for a free clothing event aimed at helping those in need build confidence and prepare for professional and personal opportunities. The event was part of community outreach efforts supporting women in Amarillo .

Yellow City Comic Convention: The Yellow City Comic Convention brought together fandoms to swap collectibles, cosplay, and more, providing entertainment for local enthusiasts [4].

local business:

Fermi CEO Steps Down: Toby Neugebauer has departed as CEO of Fermi America, with the company's stock falling nearly 30% following the leadership shake-up. An interim CEO has been named as construction continues on Fermi's Matador project in Amarillo [5].

Ferguson Federal Credit Union Platform Update: Ferguson Federal Credit Union has returned to the CBS and CAMS-ii core processing platform, enhancing its technology capabilities for member services .

school:

Carver Elementary Academy 75th Anniversary: On Saturday night at the George Washington Carver Elementary Academy Campus, dozens of Carver School graduates, alongside friends and family, celebrated the 75th anniversary of the historic school. The event honored the legacy of one of Amarillo's significant educational institutions [4].

Former WT Student Convicted: A former West Texas A&M student, Rayna Smith, was convicted in a deadly wrong-way crash on I-27 that killed two other college students. A jury found Smith guilty on both counts [5].

The Roundup:

Employment: The Texas Workforce Commission reported the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas is 4.3%, with the Amarillo metropolitan statistical area having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state [6].

Energy Assistance: A national report indicates that 1 in 3 U.S. households struggle to pay energy bills, with concerns about affording electricity and home heating fuel elevated. This highlights the importance of local assistance programs for Amarillo residents facing energy costs [2].

Safe Digging Reminder: Xcel Energy is reminding customers engaged in landscaping projects to contact officials at 8-1-1 before starting any digging projects during National Safe Digging Month. Officials warn that digging can damage underground utility lines, including electric, natural gas, water, and cable, which can cause outages and result in fines [1].

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

The Texas Department of Transportation has launched its "Be Safe. Drive Smart." campaign in recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, urging Amarillo drivers to exercise caution in construction zones. The campaign emphasizes the importance of slowing down and staying alert when traveling through work zones to protect both drivers and road workers [3].

In transportation news, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCA) will withhold $73 million from New York state for failing to revoke Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) that were issued illegally. This action highlights federal enforcement standards that could impact CDL holders nationwide [1].

Weather:

No significant weather events or storms were reported in the immediate forecast for Amarillo in the provided research findings. Residents should continue to monitor local weather channels for any updates. Given recent burn bans in effect across the area, residents are reminded to adhere to local fire safety restrictions.

Events:

No specific local Amarillo events with times, locations, and pricing details were available in the current research findings. Residents are encouraged to check local community calendars for upcoming activities.

local business:

No new local business openings, closings, or promotional events specific to Amarillo were reported in the current findings. Previous reports noted Haven Aviation's opening at the airport.

school:

No new updates regarding Amarillo area elementary schools, high schools, middle schools, or colleges were available in the current research findings. Previous reports covered the AISD daycare program for staff and the AC-UTPB transfer partnership announcement.

The Roundup:

Cybersecurity Alert: Amarillo residents should be on high alert for a growing cyber threat. Hackers are using fake CAPTCHA verification schemes to install information-stealing viruses on devices. Because these schemes require users to willingly download a file, computers may not register the attack. Residents are advised to verify CAPTCHA requests carefully and avoid downloading unexpected files [2].

Drug Trend Warning: A dangerous new trend is emerging in the drug landscape. Carfentanil, a weapons-grade chemical originally designed as an elephant tranquilizer, is surging as a substitute for fentanyl. This substance is significantly more potent and poses severe risks to communities. This development follows recent local arrests for fentanyl distribution in the Amarillo area .

Gas Prices: Good news for Amarillo drivers - oil prices have fallen by more than 10% following Iran's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open again for oil tankers. This reopening could lead to lower gas prices in the coming days .

Climate Impact on Wildfires: A new report indicates that North American wildfires are burning longer into the night and starting earlier in the morning due to climate change. This trend is particularly relevant for Texas residents as wildfire season approaches, with flames no longer "going to sleep" at night as they historically did .

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Missing Pre-Teens Found Safe: Two Amarillo pre-teens who were reported missing have been found safe. Azalyna Angela Velez, 12, and Bella Gave Gonzales, 11, were last seen at 5:19 p.m. in the 300 block of South Florida Street before being located overnight. Police had issued a public alert seeking assistance in locating the girls [1].

Randall County Sentencing: A Randall County jury has sentenced Adrian Guadalupe Guzman to the maximum prison term of 20 years after finding him guilty of indecency with a child by sexual contact [2].

City Employee Theft Case: A third Amarillo employee has pleaded guilty to stealing money intended for the homeless, continuing the investigation into misuse of city funds [2].

Surveillance Camera Debate: A Homeland Security grant approval has fueled debate over adding more Flock cameras and license plate readers in Amarillo. Some residents are raising privacy and equity concerns about the city's growing surveillance network used by police [2].

Sex Offender Added to Most Wanted List: An Amarillo fugitive has been added to the Texas Most Wanted Sex Offenders List [3].

Weather:

Current conditions show temperatures at 74°F with Friday expected to reach 84°F and Saturday cooling to 62°F. No major storm events are currently forecast for the Amarillo area in the immediate outlook [1].

Events:

Scouting for Food Drive: Local scouts will go door-to-door in several Amarillo neighborhoods this Saturday, collecting food donations as part of the 2026 Scouting for Food "Good Turn" campaign. Residents are encouraged to have non-perishable food items ready for collection to help combat food insecurity in the Texas Panhandle [4].

Weekend Events: The April 16-19 weekend is packed with events throughout the Amarillo area, offering residents multiple opportunities for community engagement [3].

local business:

No significant local business openings, closings, or promotional events were reported in today's findings. Residents are encouraged to support local businesses during the busy weekend events [3].

school:

Amarillo ISD Daycare Program: Amarillo ISD is set to open a new daycare program for school employees. School board members heard details about the program Monday, which aims to help recruit and retain teachers and staff. This initiative addresses childcare challenges faced by district employees [3].

Wayland Baptist Nursing Scholarship: The Sally Society, a women's giving group at Wayland Baptist University, has announced the establishment of a new endowed scholarship for nursing students in Plainview. This scholarship will support students pursuing nursing careers in the region [5].

TTU System Policy Change: The Texas Tech University System announced it will end some programs focused on sexual orientation and gender identity [3].

The Roundup:

Cold Case Appeal: Austin police are asking the Amarillo community for tips on a woman who has been missing since 2006. The department is seeking any information that could help solve this long-standing cold case [2].

Federal Judge Threat Case: A man has been found guilty of threatening federal judges, including one in Amarillo, highlighting ongoing security concerns for the federal judiciary in the region [2].

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Six individuals have been arrested and charged with distributing fentanyl in Amarillo, with court documents alleging the defendants brought the drug to Amarillo from New Mexico [9]. In law enforcement news, Assistant Chief Jimmy Johnson, who served as former Interim Amarillo Police Chief, is set to retire after 38 years with APD [9]. The Amarillo City Council met on April 14 to discuss cost recovery measures and future water rates [9]. Additionally, Potter County Commissioners approved a burn ban and discussed vaping policy during their April 13 meeting [9].

Weather:

Despite early April showers bringing the best statewide drought improvement since December, the Texas Panhandle is experiencing an expansion of drought conditions [4]. Residents should stay informed on water conservation efforts as the region continues to monitor conditions. The Amarillo Tribune noted rain in the forecast for mid-April, advising residents to keep umbrellas handy [9].

Events:

West Texas A&M University and The Hill Institute are hosting a Civil Discourse and Civics Education symposium, providing an opportunity for community engagement on important civic topics [9]. Additionally, the WT Theatre program is offering an innovative take on the classic love story 'Pride and Prejudice' [9]. Residents interested in water issues should note that an Ogallala Aquifer educational summit was recently hosted by the Ogallala Commons to help landowners become better stewards of the aquifer [8].

local business:

Haven Aviation Services Group has opened its first fixed-based operator (FBO) at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, expanding aviation services for the region [3]. In major local investment news, Amarillo National Bank donated $3 million to WTAMU's One West campaign, contributing to the university's nine-year fundraising effort that has significantly transformed the institution [2][8].

school:

Amarillo College announced a new partnership with the University of Texas Permian Basin designed to make student transfers easier between the institutions [1]. West Texas A&M University's One West fundraising campaign continues to bring changes to campus, with more than 11,000 Region 16 ESC employees, their spouses, and dependents now eligible for half-off tuition and fees at WT [2][9]. United Supermarkets and Mrs Baird's Bread honored three Amarillo area teachers as Teachers on the Rise for March [6].

The Roundup:

Arizona Diamondbacks left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has started his season at Hodgetown in Amarillo after an offseason of healing and recalibrating

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Six individuals have been arrested on federal drug charges following a multi-week investigation in Amarillo. A criminal complaint was filed in federal court as a result of the operation [8]. Additionally, the Amarillo Police Department is seeking public assistance to identify suspects involved in a vehicle shooting incident that occurred on March 14. Authorities are asking community members with any information to come forward [9].

On the political front, Texas Democratic candidates touring the Panhandle stopped in Amarillo to hear constituent concerns regarding data centers and water issues—key topics for the region's future [1]. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has ordered thousands of furloughed employees back to work amid ongoing funding challenges, placing staff in paid status though long-term funding remains uncertain [2].

Weather:

Severe storms accompanied by tornadoes have damaged communities from the Plains to the Midwest. Forecasters are warning that additional storms could bring giant hail to affected areas. Residents should stay weather-aware and have multiple ways to receive alerts. The National Weather Service recommends having a severe weather plan in place, including knowing your shelter location and keeping emergency supplies readily accessible [6].

Events:

Ogallala Commons Field Day – Tuesday, featuring the Rock Creek restoration project in Borger. The event focuses on watershed management and Ogallala Aquifer stewardship. Educational summits are also scheduled for May in Amarillo, with another event in Springfield, Colorado on Thursday [7].

WT Theatre Presents "Freaky Friday" – Running April 10-19 at West Texas A&M University. The comedy production marks the end of the theatre season [5].

Amarillo College JET Grant Presentation – Scheduled for 10 a.m., hosted by Amarillo College in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission. The Jobs and Education for Texans grant presentation will support workforce development initiatives [4].

local business:

No significant local business openings, closings, or promotional events were reported in today's findings.

school:

Amarillo College is hosting a regional Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant check presentation in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission. The event begins at 10 a.m. and highlights ongoing efforts to connect education with workforce needs in the region [4]. Additionally, WT Theatre is concluding its season with a production of "Freaky Friday," running April 10-19 [5].

The Roundup:

Water conservation remains a critical focus for the Panhandle. Educational summits hosted by Ogallala Commons are helping residents become better stewards of the Ogallala Aquifer through improved land management practices. Experts recommend planting drought-resistant plants and being mindful of water usage. "Any efforts you can make in your personal life to plant drought-resistant plants to become mindful of the water you use helps," said Donovan Johnson, riverscape restoration technician .

Internationally, NASA's Artemis II lunar flyby has been deemed a success, building momentum for future missions to the moon and Mars [3].

Sources: [1] amarillo.com, [2] abc7amarillo.com, [3] abc7amarillo.com, [4] myhighplains.com, [5] myhighplains.com, [6] myhighplains.com, [7] myhighplains.com, [8] myhighplains.com, [9] myhighplains.com, abc7amarillo.com

Amarillo Texas Local News

Breaking news:

Park Access Complaints Grow: Frustration is mounting among Amarillo residents who say they are paying for public spaces they cannot use. Locked restrooms and closed pools at local parks—including Medi Park, John Ward Park, John Stiff Park, Southwest Park, and Thompson Park—have sparked complaints about accessibility [1]. Residents point to locked parking lots and facilities as barriers to enjoying city amenities.

Rep. Tony Gonzales Retires: U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (TX-23) has announced he will retire from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations. Gonzales admitted to an affair with his Regional District Director, Regina Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide. The announcement came as bipartisan calls for his expulsion intensified [2][9]. Gonzales stated he will file his retirement paperwork when Congress returns [9].

City Employee Plea Agreement: A former City of Amarillo employee has reached a plea agreement on a federal charge of Theft Concerning a Program Receiving Federal Funds [3]. Additionally, a third City of Amarillo employee, Selene Varela, pleaded guilty to stealing money from the homeless in federal court [2].

Weather:

No major weather events are forecast in the immediate outlook. However, city crews continue addressing infrastructure damage from past weather events. Public Works recently rehabilitated 58th Street after damage from Winter Storm Fern, restoring 1,800 feet of roadway [8]. The HAWK signal at Georgia & Plains was also upgraded to enhance pedestrian safety [8].

Events:

Power of the Purse Luncheon: This long-standing High Plains tradition returns for another year. The event has become one of the area's most anticipated gatherings, though specific date and ticket information was not detailed in available reports [4].

local business:

HUB Program Changes Blocked: A Travis County judge granted a temporary injunction blocking rule changes to Texas's Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program. The ruling affects how the state certifies and supports minority and women-owned businesses seeking government contracts [6].

Chef Bud's Kitchen: Local chef Bud Andersen recently shared a pork belly sandwich recipe on Studio 4, continuing his series of local cooking segments [5].

school:

West Plains Football Coach Departs: After leading the West Plains Wolves football team through its first four seasons, head coach Adam Cummings is leaving the sidelines. Cummings is transitioning to a new role within Canyon ISD [7]. The announcement came during a Monday night meeting [2].

The Roundup:

Heroic Officers Save Li...