Welcome to Austin News Now. I'm Morgan Riley, bringing you the latest from the heart of Texas.
Word on the streets of Austin is still buzzing about the tragic multi-vehicle crash on I-35 that occurred late Thursday night. Five people, including an infant and a toddler, lost their lives in the 17-vehicle pileup near Parmer Lane. The incident, involving a semi-truck, has left the community in shock. Eleven others were hospitalized, with four adults in critical condition. The driver of the 18-wheeler, 37-year-old Solomon Wakeriah, has been arrested and charged with five counts of intoxication manslaughter. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this heartbreaking event.
In lighter news, South by Southwest is in full swing, transforming our city into a global hub of creativity and innovation. The festival, running from March 7-15, has already seen some unforgettable moments. From groundbreaking tech demonstrations to electrifying musical performances, SXSW continues to showcase why Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World. Remember, many events are open to the public, so don't miss your chance to be part of this cultural phenomenon.
Now, let's turn our attention to a local hero making waves in our community. Meet Sarah Rodriguez, the founder of "Green Austin Initiative." Sarah has been working tirelessly to create urban gardens in underserved neighborhoods, providing fresh produce and educational opportunities to residents. Her latest project, a community garden in East Austin, has already engaged over 100 families. Sarah's dedication to sustainability and community building is truly inspiring.
Looking ahead to the weekend, we're expecting partly cloudy skies with highs in the mid-70s. It's perfect weather for outdoor activities, so why not check out the ABC Kite Festival at Zilker Park on Saturday? This beloved Austin tradition is a great way to enjoy our beautiful city with family and friends.
As we wrap up today's update, let's take a moment to reflect on the resilience of our community. From tragedy to triumph, Austin continues to show its strength and spirit. Whether it's coming together in times of crisis or celebrating our vibrant culture, we prove time and again that we're more than just a city – we're a family.
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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