Welcome to Austin News Update. I'm Morgan Riley, bringing you the latest from our vibrant city.
Word on the streets of Austin is heavy with sorrow today as we grapple with the tragic crash on I-35 that claimed five lives, including a child and an infant. The incident, involving 17 vehicles and a semi-truck, occurred late Thursday night near Parmer Lane. Eleven others were hospitalized, with some in critical condition. The suspect, 37-year-old Keon Jemez Leach, is now in custody facing multiple charges. Our hearts go out to all affected by this devastating event.
In lighter news, excitement is building for the upcoming South by Southwest Conference and Festivals. From March 7-15, SXSW will once again transform Austin into a global hub for innovation in tech, film, and music. This year's lineup includes IBM CEO Arvind Krishna and Bumble CEO Lidiane Jones among the keynote speakers. Music fans can look forward to performances by emerging artists like Justin Morales and Gurriers, alongside local talents such as Bee Blackwell and Bubba Lucky.
Shifting gears to a local hero, let's talk about Jiab Prachakul, whose first solo museum show is currently on display at The Contemporary Austin. Born in Thailand and now living in France, Prachakul's bold, graphic style offers a fresh perspective on the art world. Her work, which could easily be mistaken for film stills, invites close inspection and challenges Western-centric narratives. You can catch the exhibition through August 3rd at the Jones Center.
Looking ahead to the weekend, we're in for some beautiful spring weather. Expect sunny skies with highs in the mid-70s – perfect for outdoor activities. Speaking of which, don't forget about the ABC Kite Festival in Zilker Park this Sunday. It's a beloved Austin tradition where thousands gather to fly kites, enjoy food trucks, and soak in live entertainment.
As we reflect on recent events, it's clear that Austin continues to be a city of contrasts – a place where tragedy and triumph, innovation and tradition, all coexist. In times like these, it's more important than ever to come together as a community, to support one another, and to celebrate the resilience and creativity that define our city.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an Austin News Update. For more information, you can always send an email to
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