The Amarillo 5

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...

Amarillo TX Local News Breaking news Texas Department of Public Safety officials have released new details on a fatal crash in Armstrong County that left one person dead and another injured early Thursday morning [1]. A teen arrested in connection to the Discovery Center parking lot shooting has been denied bond [1]. Amarillo Crime Stoppers is currently searching for a woman wanted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon [1]. Meanwhile, the City of Amarillo Municipal Court has launched a compliance campaign beginning Monday, February 9, giving residents with outstanding warrants or unpaid citations a voluntary compliance period through March 6 to resolve cases before enforcement actions begin [2]. Warrant notification postcards will be mailed starting February 9, and after the voluntary period ends, the Amarillo City Marshal's Office is expected to begin serving outstanding warrants the week of March 9 [2]. Weather No major weather events or storms were identified in the available reports for the upcoming week. Events West Texas A&M University Theatre is offering an innovative take on the classic love story "Pride and Prejudice," where comedy and chaos meet romance in a novel adaptation [3]. Amarillo Little Theatre's production of "Jersey Boys" is currently running, giving audiences a look behind the microphone at the real lives of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons [3]. local business Amarillo Children's Home has received a $40,000 grant from Parkhill to purchase a new 12-passenger van, enhancing transportation capabilities for their services [1]. school West Texas A&M University opened its newly remodeled Geneva Schaeffer Education Building [3]. A Canyon family is adjusting after a skiing accident in Colorado left their 10-year-old daughter with serious injuries requiring a long recovery [5]. The Roundup A teenager has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing two people after running a red light at over 80 miles per hour [5]. In a federal court case, convicted murderer Donald McCray was found competent to stand trial for charges related to allegedly threatening federal judges in Amarillo, Fort Worth, and other locations [3][4]. Amarillo leaders dedicated the city's first Safe Haven Baby Box, providing a safe surrender option for infants in crisis [1]. References https://www.newschannel10.com/ https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-municipal-court-launches-compliance-campaign-to-clear-warrants-unpaid-citations-city-marshals-office-donna-knight https://amarillotribune.org/ https://amarillotribune.org/category/local-government/ https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-health-officials-urge-residents-to-avoid-sick-or-dead-birds-as-testing-continues

Amarillo TX Local News Breaking news The Amarillo Municipal Court has launched a compliance campaign beginning Monday, February 9, giving residents with active warrants or unpaid citations until March 6 to voluntarily resolve their cases. Options include payment plans, court appearances, and community service. The City Marshal's Office will begin serving outstanding warrants the week of March 9 [1][2][3]. Amarillo Police are investigating a major crash at the intersection of I-40 and Paramount Boulevard involving a passenger vehicle and motorcycle. The motorcycle rider sustained life-threatening injuries and was not wearing a helmet. Video footage shows both vehicles entered the intersection against a red traffic signal [4]. Lefors officials have issued a boil water notice for the community [5]. One person died and another was injured following an early morning crash in Armstrong County Thursday [5]. Tavarus Tywane Drone, previously arrested January 30, is facing new state and federal charges after a judge granted GPS monitor removal [5]. A legal loophole in Texas law allows educators convicted of inappropriate relationships with students to avoid registering as sex offenders [5]. Weather Amarillo is experiencing clear and sunny conditions with current temperatures around 41-43°F. The forecast shows highs reaching 69°F on Sunday and 74°F on Monday [1][6]. No significant storms or weather emergencies are anticipated for the next week. Events The Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities meets today at noon at the Amarillo Multimodal Bus Terminal, located at 509 S. Bowie St [5]. The Center City Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #1 Board also meets today at noon in room 1500 at Amarillo City Hall, 623 S. Johnson St [5]. A two-day better land stewardship conference for agricultural producers is scheduled for February 15-16 in Amarillo [7]. local business Duos Edge is developing a new downtown Amarillo data center expected to be operational by the end of next year [7][9]. The Amarillo National Bank released its annual 2026 economic forecast, projecting steady growth for Amarillo's economy driven by AI data center construction, though noting lower consumer confidence and concerns about higher electricity and water usage [5]. The Amarillo Public Library has launched a new series of classes focused on improving professional skills [5]. school Amarillo College Board of Regents unanimously elected Michelle Fortunato as new vice chair following John Betancourt's DWI arrest and suspension [6]. The Roundup Amarillo saddle maker Richard Oliver will be honored at the Western Heritage Awards with the Chester A. Reynolds Award

Amarillo TX Local NewsBreaking newsCity of Amarillo officials continue investigating a significant avian flu outbreak after collecting more than 300 dead birds across the area in recent days. As of Feb. 3, no cases of the virus have been reported in humans or other animals within the city, though testing is ongoing. Health officials are urging residents to avoid sick or dead birds as a precaution [1][2][6].Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of a fire at a quad-plex apartment located at 1309 Evergreen Street on Jan. 31. Firefighters encountered heavy fire that had spread to multiple corners of the building and was venting through the roof. No civilian injuries were reported, and the American Red Cross has been contacted to assist displaced residents [10].The Amarillo Fire Department, City of Amarillo, and Safe Haven Baby Box dedicated the city's first Safe Haven Baby Box at Firehouse No. 9 on Paramount Boulevard on Feb. 4, providing an anonymous infant surrender option for the community [3][12].The Amarillo City Council confirmed Thomas Hover as the new Amarillo Police Chief. Hover will be honored at a welcoming ceremony on Friday [9].A Potter County grand jury indicted a man accused of killing his neighbor's dog and shooting at an Amarillo police officer with a pellet gun [5][6].The Amarillo Children's Home received a $40,000 grant from Parkhill to purchase a new 12-passenger van [3].Potter County grand jurors declined to prosecute an Amarillo man in the murder of his roommate in a fatal October trailer fire, finding insufficient evidence to continue the case [2].Amarillo police are continuing their investigation into the 2008 murder of 21-year-old Crystal Booker, who was found dead in a vacant field off Interstate 40. Eighteen years later, investigators say they haven't given up on finding her killer [2].A Potter County man has been arrested on decades-old child sexual assault charges [2].WeatherThe Amarillo area can expect sunny conditions with temperatures climbing into the 70s over the next several days. Forecast shows mostly sunny skies Friday with a high around 70°, Saturday reaching 74°, and Sunday at 68° [10].While no severe storms are currently in the forecast, fire crews recently conducted a prescribed burn to create defensible space in Borger as part of wildfire prevention efforts. The National Weather Service in Amarillo met with Panhandle leaders in Borger to review wildfire watches and warnings, enhancing coordination for potential wildfire events in the region [9][12].Events

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 B...

Amarillo TX Local News Breaking newsAmarillo health officials are investigating a significant avian flu situation after city workers collected 300-350 dead birds over recent days. The birds were discovered primarily at McDonald Lake in John Stiff Park, with 239 dead geese and ducks collected on Sunday alone. Several birds were found alive but actively dying and required euthanasia. Test results are expected next week, and officials urge residents to avoid sick or dead birds and monitor for flu-like symptoms or pink eye in themselves and pets. No human or other animal cases have been reported as of Tuesday [1][2][3].A man accused of robbing a Walgreens pharmacy in Amarillo, allegedly stealing a garbage bag full of prescription drugs, pleaded not guilty in federal court [1]. Meanwhile, a teenager arrested in connection with a Discovery Center parking lot shooting was denied bond after police say he fired multiple shots with an AR-style rifle [1][3].The Potter County grand jury has "no-billed" a roommate involved in a fatal October trailer fire, meaning they chose not to indict [1]. In another legal development, Tifany Adams was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to her role in the murders of two Kansas women whose bodies were found buried in a freezer [1][2].WeatherAmarillo is experiencing unseasonably warm conditions with Thursday's high at 43°F and temperatures expected to rise to 68°F on Friday and 71°F on Saturday. However, forecasters indicate a storm system may bring precipitation next week, potentially changing the current mild pattern [1].EventsAmarillo has been selected as one of five official "satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-off celebration. This designation provides an unprecedented special event opportunity for the city, with more details expected as the centennial approaches [1].Amarillo Little Theatre is currently presenting "Jersey Boys," a jukebox musical that gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the real lives of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The production aims to leave audiences thinking "Oh, what a night" [1][2].The Texas Panhandle Peace Officers Association recently hosted its regular meeting to provide updates to local law enforcement agencies, representing continued coordination among regional public safety officials [1].local businessFulton Drive just east of Bell Street is temporarily closed between Holiday Drive and Harmony Street as part of the Ridgecrest neighborhood development. The closure, expected through Friday, February 6, is to allow installation of a water main serving the new development. Eastbound traffic is detoured at Holiday Drive and westbound traffic is detoured southbound at Harmony Street [1].Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport has launched a new prepaid parking program, giving travelers another convenient option for parking their vehicles [1].Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q has launched its Special Edition Pink "Cup for a Cause" campaign to support Panhandle Breast Health [1].schoolAmarillo National Bank released its annual 2026 economic forecast, predicting steady growth for Amarillo's economy with increased construction wages. However, the bank anticipates some uncertainty about higher electricity prices and water usage stemming from AI data centers expected to drive construction sector growth [1][2].The Amarillo College board has filled roles formerly held by John Betancourt after his DWI arrest and suspension. Betancourt had been suspended from committees pending resolution of the suspected DWI arrest [1][2].West Texas A&M and Texas Southern University won a $2 million federal grant to promote civics instruction, representing a significant educational investment for the region

Amarillo TX Local NewsBreaking newsThe City of Amarillo has collected 300-350 dead birds across the area in recent days as officials investigate a potential avian influenza outbreak. Birds were found dead or displaying symptoms consistent with the virus, including stumbling and twitching. Testing is underway with results expected in 3-5 days, though no human or other animal cases have been reported in the city [1][2][3][6]. Health officials urge residents to avoid sick or dead birds and contact Animal Management and Welfare for removal, wearing proper protective equipment and washing hands thoroughly if handling is necessary [2][3]. A separate report documented hundreds of ducks and geese found dead at McDonald Lake, raising concerns for other animals in the area as scavengers like raccoons, skunks, and outdoor cats could be at risk from contact with infected birds [6].In criminal court news, Tifany Adams was sentenced to life in prison without parole after entering a guilty plea in connection with the murder of two women whose bodies were buried in a freezer [4][5]. Meanwhile, Gilbert Joseph Carrasco's attempt to reduce his 50-year sentence for distributing methamphetamines in the Amarillo area was denied by a federal judge who rejected Carrasco's claim that a References https://amarillotribune.org/latest-news/ https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-health-officials-urge-residents-to-avoid-sick-or-dead-birds-as-testing-continues https://www.newschannel10.com/2026/02/04/reports-hundreds-dead-birds-raise-concerns-amarillo/ https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/7-on-abc-7-the-7-biggest-stories-from-last-week-you-might-have-missed-02-01-2026 https://abc7amarillo.com/news/spotlight-on-america/where-are-your-drugs-made-after-our-investigations-a-new-push-for-transparent-labeling-india-generic-prescriptions-china-quality-control-inspections-fda-rick-scott https://www.newschannel10.com/2026/02/04/hundreds-ducks-geese-found-dead-mcdonald-lake-amid-avian-influenza-concerns/