“I’m in a mother fucking arena!” screamed Megan Thee Stallion as her breakout single Big Ole Freak played behind her. Just a little under five years ago she was performing the same song for a sold-out crowd at Warehouse Live, a venue that held around 1300 people in the ballroom. Friday evening, she returned to Houston, this time performing at her first or two sold-out shows in the 19,000 seat Toyota Center. The MC, dressed in a form fitting white jumpsuit made to mimic the scales of a snake, bounced across the stage while pointing out people in the pit below her.
“I see a lot of familiar faces! I’m so happy to be home. Houston I love you.”
The Hot Girl Summer Tour is the first headlining tour for hometown MC Megan Thee Stallion performing at 35 stops in North America and Europe with opener GloRilla. Upon announcement extra shows were added to Chicago, Atlanta, and here in Houston because of high demand. The announcement of sales happened amongst media speculation that the MC would not be able to sell out arenas and didn’t have the catalog for a tour of this magnitude. To that the MC had one response via twitter which she reiterated on stage Friday night.
“This is a special night. This is night one of the motherfucking 100% sold out hottie tour in Houston, Texas. Y’all know what we’ve been through. I love y’all. I appreciate y’all. I respect y’all. And I’m grateful for y’all.”
The MC returned to Houston for The Hot Girl Summer Tour
Photo by Darrin Clifton
Megan Thee Stallion career trajectory is hard to comprehend, with the rapper first releasing music via Soundcloud in 2016 to now selling out arenas throughout the country. Since that time, she has experienced the incredible highs of stardom like creating music with Beyonce, picking up major brand deals for imprints like Revlon, racking up multiple awards and nominations including three Grammys, an appearing in movies and television. Those highs are accompanied by some lows, ranging from the typical artist’s experience to some extreme depths. While battling your original record label is run of the mill for an up-and-coming artist losing your mother/mentor/manager, being the victim in a high-profile shooting, and becoming a lightning rod for internet speculation and gossip is more than most people can handle. But handle it she has which is evident by the announcement of her new self-titled album and successful tour. Her show gives the same familiarity as that Warehouse Live showing from years ago but on a larger scale with Megan truly making fans feel her presence. Whether dancing alongside fans, stopping the show to sign autographs, or just cracking jokes with the audience, Megan exudes an infectious charm that keeps her people coming back for more.
Megan is undeniably Houston and, after running through “Southside Royalty” from her 2022 album Tramazine she brought out Lil Keke, Slim Thug and Bun B. They weren’t the only guests on the lineup as GloRilla returned to the stage to perform their latest single “Wanna Be” to the screaming crowd. The two both have energetic shows that truly complement each other, and the roar of the crowd echoed throughout the building when the two appeared onstage together. GloRilla’s opening offers the same appeal as Meg’s with the MC winning over the crowd with her personality alone. The MC ended her set with a dance off where members of her stage entourage laughed as they jigged across the stage.
“Megan, I just want you to know that you are one of the realest ever,” GloRilla smiled as she walked away from the stage after their duet.
Megan has experienced a lot since entering the world of entertainment. The tour is a display of not just what Megan has become over a brief period but glimpses into what more she is capable of as an artist, The Hot Girl Tour returns for its second night Saturday.
Setlist Hiss Ungrateful Thot Shit Freak Nasty Megan’s Piano Gift & a Curse Hot Girl Kitty Kat Cobra Plan B Cognac Queen Big Ole Freak Girls In The Hood BOA Sex Talk Eat It Realer What’s New Captain Hook Wanna Be with Glorilla Southside Royalty Southside – Lil Keke Still Tippin’ – Slim Thug Int’l Player’s Anthem (I Choose You) – Bun B WAP Don’t Stop Stalli Freestyle Cash Shit Body Savage Remix
SPRING, Texas – The Harris County Constable deputy who was shot while pursuing a suspected armed robber in Spring has been released from the hospital, Constable Mark Herman announced.
Deputy Constable Deteryon Fontonet spotted the suspect’s vehicle after he’s accused of robbing two Academy Sports and Outdoors with a fully automatic AR-15 pistol.
“One of the pistols, but it’s a fully automatic AR-15 rifle,” said Constable Mark Herman. “It’s a smaller version. It’s about this big. It has a full AR 15 clip in it.”
When the suspect refused to surrender, a car chase ensued.
That chase ended at 5310 Slashwood Lane in Spring.
The suspect then got out of his car and shot Deputy Fontonet, hitting the deputy in the face, before running into a relative’s house.
“I seen our patrol car there are 16 holes in it,” said Constable Mark Herman. “And there’s even holes through the window of the car where the deputy was standing.”
Deputy constables surrounded the home, and the suspect was eventually taken into custody.
A Harris County deputy has been shot while pursuing an armed robber in Spring, according to Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
The suspect was identified as a 23-year-old man. His name was not yet released.
Deputy Fontonet was taken to Northwest Hospital.
There he will need facial surgery, but he is expected to survive.
“The good Lord was looking out for our deputy,” Constable Herman said.
Deteryon Fontonet (Harris County Constable Precinct 4)
Authorities are seeking an attempted capital murder of a peace officer charge.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
After being sentenced to six years in prison for possession of child pornography in 2022, a Harris County man who was out on parole has been arrested once again for the same crime.
Jorge Mazuera, 37, was first arrested in August of 2021 after an investigation by Constable Mark Herman’s High Tech Crimes Unit. After being sentenced to six years in prison for six felony charges in October of 2022, he was later released on parole.
Following his release, Herman’s unit once again received notice that there was a warrant for Mazuera’s arrest for violations of his parole, which included further possession of obscene material depicting children.
On June 11, investigators executed a felony warrant and arrested Mazuera once again. Police say an electronic device was recovered and additional charges are still in play.
“Our Office has taken a firm stance on identifying and eradicating child pornography and will continue to dedicate the necessary resources to seek out and charge those who prey on our children,” Herman said in the post.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
Here’s a look at this week’s hottest culinary happenings:
Tuesday, June 11
Hidden Omakase X Sweet Bribery Ice Cream Dinner at Norigami and Hidden Bar
Hidden Omakase is hosting an exclusive ice cream pairing dinner in collaboration with Sweet Bribery at its sister restaurant Norigami and Hidden Bar, 2715 Bissonnet. Starting at 6 p.m. and with a limited seating of 22 guests, the dinner will feature a 12-course menu, including eight savory courses crafted by Hidden Omakase’s Marcos Juarez and four artisan ice cream courses by Sweet Bribery’s Steve Marques, who has crafted innovative ice cream flavors such as Pho and Mole. Tickets are $200.
Wednesday, June 12
Houston Chef Series at La Griglia
Landry’s Inc. has bring back its Houston Chef Series, offered on select evenings through Wednesday, August 7 and with this year’s theme taking inspiration from “Presidential State Dinners.” This week, chef Patten Sommers will showcase a “Presidents Taken Too Soon” menu at La Griglia, with features including Lincoln’s Oysters, Mckinley’s Hot Lobster Salad, Garfield’s Rabbit Stew, Kennedy’s Lamb Chops and Marilyn’s Ice Cream Cake. Price is $150 per person for five courses with beverage pairings.
Anniversary Special at Molina’s Cantina Molina’s Turns 83 + Honors George H.W.’s 100th with a $10 Taco Plate
Houston’s oldest family-owned and -operated Tex-Mex restaurant, Molina’s Cantina, celebrates its anniversary on June 12, which also happens to mark the 100th birthday of the late President George H.W. Bush, who was a long-time fan of the family restaurant. To celebrate and as a ttribute to H.W., the restaurant is running one of his favorite dishes as a special: Tacos al Carbon for $10. Thursday, June 13
Spirit Round Table: Summer Cocktails at Brennan’s
Brennan’s, 3300 Smith, will host a Spirit Round Table: Summer Cocktails event from 6 to 8 p.m. Bar manager Thomas Cordes will lead the summer cocktail lesson, showing guests how to shake up four great summer cocktails that are ideal from entertaining, including the Pimm’s Cup, Hou Geaux Spritz, Mint Julep and Bee Stinger. Tickets are $45 and include light bites.
Saturday, June 15
Nosotros Tequila Wine Dinner at Alicia’s Mexican Grille Katy
Alicia’s Mexican Grille will host a Nosotros Tequila Wine Dinner, featuring a three-course meal paired with Nosotros’ finest tequila offerings. Features include a welcome cocktail, crabmeat enchiladas, filet mignon with peppercorn sauce and arroz primavera, and churros served with vanilla ice cream and a Nosotros Reposado chocolate shot. Dinner begins at and cost is $95 per person (plus tax and gratuity).
Saturday–Sunday
Tokyo X at NRG Center
The second annual Tokyo X festival invites folks to dive deep into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, offering traditional Japanese street foods and dishes prepared by local Houston chefs, anime, music, live performances, car shows and authentic night markets. Food vendors and restaurants include Pop Fancy Dessert Bar, Dumpling Haus, Sandoitchi, Wagyu Dog, Mai Lao Thai Kitchen, Lady M Cake Boutique and Rakkan Ramen, among others.Tickets start at $40 for Saturday (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.) and $35 for Sunday (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.).
All month long
Burger Bodega Collab at Kolache Shoppe
Two iconic names in the Houston food scene, Burger Bodega and Kolache Shoppe, joined forces for an awesome June collaboration, creating the Chopped Cheese and Spicy Chopped Cheese Kolaches. The Chopped Cheese features chopped patties with American cheese, onions, bell peppe, and bodega sauce (with spicy mayo in the Spicy Chopped Cheese), available Thursdays through Saturdays beginning at the Greenway Shoppe, 3945 Richmond, and Fridays through Sundays at Shoppe locations in the Heights, 1031 Heights, and Pearland, 11940 Broadway.
New and ongoing specials
Asian American and Pacific Islander Restaurant Weeks
OCA-Greater Houston presents the fifth annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Restaurant Weeks, a city-wide event celebrating the culinary heritage of AAPI communities in Houston. No through June 15, each donation of $25 or more will unlock the AAPI Restaurant Week digital passport with a QR code to access special deals from over 50 AAPI and AAPI-owned restaurants and AAPI chefs throughout the city.
Pride Month at Common Bond
During Pride Month from June 1–30, Common Bond will offer a Pride Cream Puff to celebrate the LQBTQIA+ community at all Common Bond Bistro & Bakery and On-The-Go locations. The festive light and fluffy pastry comes filled with tropical passion mango diplomat crème and topped with chantilly cream, passion mango shell and rainbow décor.
We head to Texas for a taste of the Lone Star State’s cuisine and culture, from a pitmaster in Houston with multiple world championship titles to a family-run restaurant in Austin serving up Tex-Mex fare. Watch these stories and more on The Dish.
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HOUSTON – The family of as man shot and killed while working at the Houston Farmers Market is opening up about the loss of their loved one.
Damon Price, 36, was shot after confronting two teens who were allegedly trying to steal a golf cart from the Houston Heights business early Thursday morning.
According to the Houston Police Department, a fight ensued after Price confronted them. That’s when a 14-year-old pulled out a gun and shot Price, killing him.
On Saturday, just two days after he was killed, Price’s fiancé is opening up only to KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding.
“To know Damon is to love Damon, and he was truly loved,” Ashley Thomas said. “A great father, a great friend, provider, everything. He was everything to me.”
Price, at just 36 years old, was murdered while working the early morning shift as a gatekeeper at the Houston Farmers Market.
He leaves behind his fiance and the six kids they share between them.
Damon Price and his fiancé Ashley Thomas. Price, 36, was killed when two teens shot and killed him while trying to steal a golf cart from the Houston Farmers Market. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Ashley Thomas: “I’m gonna say my kids because he love my kids like they were his own. And that was my babies, too. I know they hurt.”
Gage Goulding: “They have to grow up without a father now, your kids. That was a father figure for them to grow up without that.”
Ashley Thomas: “For four years. They [were] so used to him coming in the door. And now to see that he can’t come in and not to hear him say. His words ‘Off your ass, on your feet’ is, this is crazy, to not hear those words.”
Gage Goulding: “What are you going to miss most about Damon?”
Ashley Thomas: “The way he loved me and he loved on me.”
She didn’t realize something happened until she called down to the Houston Farmers Market on Thursday morning. She sensed that something was wrong when she woke up.
“We have a routine, she said. “And the routine was if I don’t text him before he text me, we better text each other and I did not get it text, a ‘Good morning, baby.’”
When she reached the security guard at the Houston Farmers Market, she learned the love of her life was gone.
“That’s when she told me to sit down. And I’m like, ‘Why, I gotta sit down?’ And she tells me. I still feel like I’m in a dream and I pinch me. But it’s my reality. Yeah, he’s not here.”
Damon was shot and killed by a 14-year-old who was trying to steal a golf cart. When he confronted them, a fight started and one of the teens pulled out a gun, shooting and killing Damon.
Gage Goulding: “These are teenagers that did this and took this man not only out of your life, but out of your children’s life, out of his children’s life.”
Ashley Thomas: “I can’t—I can’t even process it. What are y’all doing? I can’t even be angry because these are children. I don’t know how to be angry at kids when I have kids myself.”
Gage Goulding: “Do you think that there’s a violence problem here in Houston?”
Ashley Thomas: “Of course, and it needs to come to an end.”
Damon’s family is planning on a balloon release to celebrate his life next week.
CMPD said a suspect in a May homicide in Charlotte has been arrested in Houston, Texas, and will be extradited.
File Photo
Police in Houston, Texas, on Monday arrested a suspect in a Charlotte homicide.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police traveled to Houston to question Jose Francisco Ulloa-Martinez, 42, about the death of Kevin Merlos-Saravia, 23. Police had obtained a warrant for first-degree murder, according to a Friday press release from CMPD.
On May 26, CMPD responded to a call in the 6100 block of Winged Elm Court around 5 a.m., where police found a man dead from a gunshot wound. The victim was later identified as Merlos-Saravia.
The neighborhood is in southeast Charlotte between Albemarle Road and East Independence Boulevard.
Ulloa-Martinez will be extradited to Mecklenburg County, CMPD said. Federal ICE agents worked with Houston police to arrest him.
Police did not say what they think might have led to the shooting.
Whew, chile! Roomies, you might just be living in one of America’s dirtiest cities! A recent study left the internet in shambles after it revealed a list of the top 20 dirtiest cities in the United States.
Top 20 Dirtiest Cities In America
According to The Hill, LawnStarter, a lawn care provider, assessed over 150 major United States cities. Their study centered on pollution, living conditions, infrastructure, and resident satisfaction.
Social media was shook after Houston, Texas, was crowned the dirtiest city to live in. The Hill reports that Houston ranked highest due to its major cockroach problem, high levels of pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions from large industrial plants.
Despite these assertions, some Houstonians express greater satisfaction with their city’s cleanliness compared to residents in 33 other major cities.
Completing the top five list was Newark, New Jersey, securing the second position. It dropped from its number one position as the dirtiest city.
The list proceeded with San Bernardino at number three, followed by Detroit, Michigan at number four, and Jersey City, New Jersey at number five.
Multiple cities in California, including Bakersfield, Fresno, Los Angeles and San Bernardino, were also identified among the dirtiest. San Bernardino, for the second consecutive year, had the highest number of dissatisfied residents regarding cleanliness. Furthermore, the study underscored the water challenges faced by the Southwest, which has intensified by drought and climate change. However, Las Vegas emerged as the most polluted region, securing the 19th position.
See the full list below:
Houston, Texas
Newark, New Jersey
San Bernardino, California
Detroit, Michigan
Jersey City, New Jersey
Bakersfield, California
San Antonio, Texas
Fresno, California
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Yonkers, New York
Shreveport, Louisiana
New York, New York
Birmingham, Alabama
Ontario, California
Los Angeles, California
Modesto, California
Palmdale, California
Hollywood, Florida
Las Vegas, Nevada
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Social Media Reacts To The List
Of course, the Roomie’s couldn’t resist weighing in and offering their reactions to the news in The Shade Room comment section. Numerous social media users were shocked to learn about the study’s discovery.
Instagram user @318roo wrote “I refuse to believe any city is dirtier than New York gotta be cap.”
Instagram user @richidollarz wrote, “Houston beating NY is WILDDDD.”
Another Instagram user @likewhat_youcee wrote, “Philly and Chicago not being on here leaves me a little skeptical of the list.”
While Instagram user @maintisha wrote, “Oh I get it!!! Y’all must be ranking the men!!!”
Then Instagram usr wrote @itsrachelsimone wrote, “Didn’t Harlem have rats the side of a croc shoe.”
Instagram user @getemhuskey wrote, “Well since Houston so dirty STOP COMING DOWN HERE AND MOVING AFTER ONE SUNDAY FUNDAY EXPERIENCE!! We FULL B****!!”
Finally Instagram user @athereshego921 wrote, “Sir I’m sitting on a nYC. subway platform now… who I gotta submit my evidence to? Because how? NY has to be the dirtiest city ever and I live here.”
HOUSTON – As you prepare for hurricane season by prepping for your family, first responders in Houston are doing the same.
At the Houston Fire Department, firefighters are training just in case the Houston area finds itself in the path of a hurricane this season.
Part of that training includes rescuing people from fast-rising water or flooded-out communities.
“Swift water is dangerous,” said Captain Michael O’Hare of the Houston Fire Department. “We are that last line of defense Before they are hurt.”
Captain O’Hare is among the group of leaders heading the training at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on Galveston.
There, the men and women of the Houston Fire Department are earning their name of “Houston’s Bravest.”
The training scenarios put firefighters in real work scenarios with real consequences for just one wrong step.
A Houston firefighters training for hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
“This opens eyes, but this doesn’t come close to the real forces that you’ll be dealing with,” Captain O’Hare said.
So why are we at a waterpark?
“Schlitterbahn is nice enough to give us a couple days to run the pumps up,” Captain O’Hare said.
The different kinds of currents and pools give Houston Firefighters the opportunity to get a feel for some of the different kinds of swift water they could encounter.
KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding was invited to tag along for an exclusive opportunity to train alongside firefighters to get a taste of just how difficult their training really is.
KPRC2 reporter Gage Goulding training alongside Houston firefighters ahead of hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
The first session involved flipping a capsized inflatable rescue boat.
“If our boats are caught sideways in the current, they will probably knock over,” Captain O’Hare said.
When that happens, one of the firefighters swims under the boat and braces themselves in the air pocket.
Meanwhile, on the top, another firefighter is using their body weight to pull on straps and flip the boat upright.
“This is what we want our guys to realize before they do get inside the water the first time,” said Firefighter Christopher Cullen.
Next, firefighters headed over to the not-so-lazy river for some defensive swimming training.
“Our feet are up and in front in case we encounter something under the water that we can’t see,” Captain O’Hare explained.
A Houston Firefighter training for hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
In this instance, it’s a giant plastic tube, which could be a floating tree or telephone pole.
“Things that we call strainers, or anything that is stopped in the water, that if we get wedged up against, we won’t be able to recover,” said Captain O’Hare. “So, we learn how to swim over those or to divert around them.”
The easy part is floating on your back and letting the current push you along. But flipping around and getting over the obstacle is no walk on the beach.
Gage Goulding: “It wasn’t that bad. But the camera doesn’t do it justice.”
KPRC2 reporter Gage Goulding training alongside Houston firefighters ahead of hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
The Houston Fire Department saved the best training for last – one that was introduced with the following statement: “We’re not here to get hurt.”
At the Boogie Bahn, crews crank up the water blasting at our feet.
“This isn’t normal training where you go out and just do it,” Cullen said.
The goal is to work as a team and move sideways through the swift water, using only a paddle to check for dangers in front of them.
“A lot of people, they see this skinny moving water and think it is not moving very fast,” said Cullen. “And since it’s not moving very fast and it’s not deep, they think they can cross it.”
KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding was voted to the front of the pyramid by his fellow teammates.
KPRC2 reporter Gage Goulding training alongside Houston firefighters ahead of hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
Two Houston firefighters were holding Gage down by his life vest while he moved sideways through the water, breaking up the pressure for those behind him.
They made it most of the way through the water, but where the current was its strongest, we lost one of our teammates.
It wasn’t long until everyone fell.
Christopher Cullen: “We’re going to put you in some harm’s way, and you might get some bumps and bruises on it. That’s the only way you’re going to learn from it.”
Gage Goulding: “So how did I do with everything? Be honest.”
Christopher Cullen: “I think you did great. I mean, you saw everybody falling down. That gets everybody over there.”
While it might look like fun and games, it’s a very important experience for firefighters to get their feet wet when it comes to dangerous flood waters.
A Houston Firefighter training for hurricane season at Schlitterbahn Waterpark on May 15, 2024. Photo by Jack Quillin (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
“We don’t want our guys to walk out and haven’t been introduced to that type of water before,” Cullen said.
While they’re preparing for hurricane season, they use this knowledge year-round.
In early May during historic rainfalls and flooding, the Houston Fire Department deployed their swift water teams to rescue those caught in the flood waters or trapped in their homes.
“The opportunity for us to go in and help evacuate people; It’s good for refreshing us and boat operations and safety factors,” Captain O’Hare said.
While they hope everyone heeds warnings, evacuates and never finds themselves in harm’s way – they need to be ready just in case.
“If something does happen, you’re going to have a team that’s ready to come get you,” Cullen said.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
HOUSTON – One of the seven people facing charges in a scandal revolving around emergency water line repairs in the City of Houston is in jail while the remaining six remain free.
Patrece Lee, the former City of Houston water department manager is the sole person in custody.
A Harris County Grand Jury filed charges against the group after KPRC 2′s ‘DRAINED’ Investigation uncovered millions of taxpayer dollars that were spent in the waterline repair scandal.
Here are the people facing charges:
Patrece Lee, former City of Houston water department manager
Andrew Thomas, Lee’s brother
Danielle Hurts
The other four defendants were contractors and business owners charged with bribery for making payments to Lee in exchange for the steering the waterline repairs, inspections and city payments their way.
They are:
Joseph Nerie, Owner of Nerie Construction
Edelmiro Castillo, Owner of Omega Engineering, Inc.,
Tieasha Coleman Houston, Owner of T. J. Cole Enterprises, LLC
Frank Perkins, Owner of CST Connections, LLC
Patrece Lee has a court date scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday morning. She’s the first to appear in court following the charges being filed.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
“About an hour and a half before we hit Houston, they ask for if you’ve been on this cruise ship, could you raise your hand,” James Snell recounts from his flight.
All of the ill passengers were previously on a cruise. A total of 75 passengers flying on the plane were on that cruise.
Firefighters and paramedics met the passengers as they landed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport following the five-hour flight from Vancouver, British Columbia.
“Then all of a sudden, the flight attendant, she put on a mask, and the guy next to me is like, ‘What do you think’s going on?’ And I’m like, ‘Bro, I don’t know. You know? I mean, COVID, we’re all going to die.’ You know what I mean,” said Snell.
Three people were “evacuated” from the airplane, but no one was taken to the hospital.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) the plane landed around 6:30 p.m.
“Then firetrucks and ambulances started pulling up,” Snell said. “They didn’t hold us very long, maybe 45 minutes-ish.”
Passengers aboard the airplane say that the pilot and flight attendants alerted them that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the illness.
“This is where it got weird,” Snell said. “He [the pilot] got over the speaker, but he came out to us and he said, ‘Hey, in my 25 years of flying, I’ve never seen anything like this. We have been quarantined by the CDC. Nobody can exit the plane until the CDC lets us off.’”
After being let off the plane passengers were screened by paramedics from the Houston Fire Department.
“As soon as you got off, you got mobbed, wanting to know if you had any symptoms and did you want to be triaged,” Snell said. “But then they let us off and I thought, man, you’re letting us off in Houston airport. Like we’re going everywhere in the world. This is how it started the last time.”
The last time refers to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s what he and other passengers thought they could be dealing with.
“We’re all trapped in this tube, and we’ve all lived through Corona. And I was just like, oh, come on. Not again,” Snell said.
KPRC2 asked the FAA, CDC, Houston Fire Department and United Airlines for information about which cruise ship the passengers who got sick were on and for the illness, but none of the organizations would provide further information.
According to information from the CDC, there have been seven outbreaks of illness on cruise ships this year.
Cruise Line
Cruise Ship
Sailing Dates
Causative Agent
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Summit
5/24-5/31, 2024
Norovirus
Princess Cruises
Sapphire Princess
4/5-5/7, 2024
Norovirus
Royal Caribbean International
Radiance of the Seas
4/8-4/22, 2024
Norovirus
Silversea Cruises
Silver Nova
3/31-4/16, 2024
E. coli
Holland America Line
Koningsdam
2/17-3/24, 2024
Norovirus
Cunard Line
Queen Victoria
1/22-21/6, 2024
Norovirus
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Constellation
1/3-1/12, 2023
Norovirus
The most recent is a norovirus outbreak on the Celebrity Summit cruise ship.
Norovirus is commonly known as the “stomach bug” and can lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It’s a highly contagious virus, but is typically not a severe illness and passes in a few days, the CDC reports.
According to Celebrity Cruises’ website, the Celebrity Summit ship is currently sailing between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver, British Columbia.
Vancouver is where the United Airlines flight full of sick passengers took off.
KPRC2 asked Celebrity Cruises for more information about their outbreak and if it’s connected to the sick passengers that landed in Houston. We’re still waiting for an answer.
Meanwhile, United Airlines tells KPRC2′s Gage Goulding that the plane is being pulled from rotation until it can be deep cleaned.
UNITED AIRLINES STATEMENT
“Several passengers who had been on the same cruise and did not feel well were on United Flight 1528 from Vancouver to Houston tonight. United Airlines is actively coordinating with health authorities to address the situation. As a precautionary measure, the aircraft will be removed from service and go through a deep cleaning before returning to service. Ensuring the health and safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
KPRC2 asked the CDC for additional information. A spokesperson for the nation’s top disease agency said they would not provide an update until Monday.
This is a developing story. Stay with KPRC2 for updates.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
HOUSTON – Four people are dead after two suspects murdered them before turning a gun on themselves and taking their own life.
Additionally, two other children, one in each instance, were also hurt during the two incidents.
On Thursday a mother was shot and killed by a man she was dating in Spring, according to investigators.
The man then shot himself.
Police say a young girl was also injured and flown to the hospital as a result of the incident.
And on Friday another man shot and killed a woman in Independence Heights. Investigators there say the man then tried to escape with the two-year-old child they shared together.
When police caught the man with the child on a bicycle, he pulled out a gun and took his own life.
These are extreme examples of domestic violence.
However, many cases live in the shadows of daily life throughout Houston.
That’s why KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding is having an open conversation with Sylvia Phillips, a legal advocate at Fresh Spirit Wellness.
Gage Goulding: “Two murder-suicides in the last 48 hours, right here in our city. What does that tell you about what’s going on in our community?”
Sylvia Phillips: “It tells me that people are not. The information is not getting out.”
Gage Goulding: “Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate. It can impact anybody of any walk of life.”
Sylvia Phillips: “Absolutely. It can impact doctors, lawyers, teachers, teenagers.”
Gage Goulding: “It everybody who can they call? What can they do? I know they might feel alone, but what can they do? They’re not alone.”
Sylvia Phillips: “They’re not alone. There’s several organizations they can call one in particular this Fresh Spirit. They can always call us, and we will help them come up with a safety plan of getting out. They can even text the domestic violence hotline, which is 88788. 911 operators are trained to take calls from individuals in a domestic violence situation. All they have to do is dial 911 and tell the operator they would like to order a pizza. The operator immediately starts asking questions like how many pizzas do you want? One or two, that lets them know how many people are in the house. The abuser will usually stop and allow you to order food.”
Gage Goulding: “What can they look out for? Are there some telltale signs that, hey, there might be an issue happening here?”
Sylvia Phillips: “Yes, it’s sometimes it’s very subtle. It is controlling what you wear, controlling who you talk to, controlling what you eat.”
Gage Goulding: “Even not all domestic violence is about a relationship, though, right?”
Sylvia Phillips: “Correct. It is domestic violence. Is anyone living in the same house? It can be a domestic violence against, partners. It can be domestic violence against a mother, against a child, an adult child.
Gage Goulding: “What would you say to anybody that is looking for help, that needs that help?”
Sylvia Phillips: ”Make the call. Make the call. Call fresh spirit. We will guide you through getting out. That first step is is hard to do.”
If you are in immediate danger, safely call 911.
For more information, resources and local reporting on domestic violence in Houston – visit our Breaking Free webpage.
Help is also available immediately if you need it through the following numbers:
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
After three people were hospitalized after being shocked by a downed power line near Lake Conroe, the Montgomery County Fire Marshall’s Office released a list of tips to keep residents safe.
The victims were a 59-year-old man, a 56-year-old woman and a 6-year-old boy.
KPRC 2 obtained cell phone video showing a power line bursting into flames at the Lake Conroe RV Campground Tuesday afternoon.
“We were in the warehouse just watching the rain come on the wind started blowing really hard. At first, I thought the wind was blowing down the power line but then the tree knocked over. I was just thinking about those trailers over there. They’re real close to the powerline,” witness Nathan Christy said.
Hours after the powerline went down, Montgomery County Fire Marshals said a 59-year-old man came in contact with the downed line. Neighbors found him on the ground with severe burns. A 56-year-old woman and a 6-year-old boy were also severely injured during the incident. Officials said it’s unclear how they got their injuries.
Devin Vega saw first responders show up after the fact. He lives on the campground and say he saw several first responders arrive.
“I was surprised it hadn’t been fenced off or anything sooner. There wasn’t an email sent out any sooner. I was honestly quite surprised that it happened. Because the arc flashes it actually happened hours previous that day,” Vega said.
Many people in the area, now thinking twice about getting close to down power lines.
“Would never get close to anything sparking like that even the day after, I would make sure all of the emergency crews are here,” Christy said.
If you see a downed power line, move away from it and anything touching it. The ground around power lines – up to 35 feet away – may be energized.
You cannot tell whether or not a power line is energized just by looking at it. You should assume that all downed power lines are live.
The proper way to move away from the power line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.
If you see someone who is in direct or indirect contact with the downed line, do not touch the person. You could become the next victim. Call 911 for help.
Do not attempt to move a downed power line or anything else in contact with it by using an object such as a broom or stick. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth, can conduct electricity if even slightly wet.
Be careful not to touch or step in water near where a downed power line is located.
Do not drive over downed power lines.
If your car comes in contact with a downed power line while you are inside, stay in the car. Honk your horn to summon help, but direct others to stay away from your car.
If you must leave your car because it is on fire, jump out of the vehicle with both feet together and avoid contact with both the car and the ground at the same time. Shuffle away from the car.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
HOUSTON – After a nearly two-week-long battle with their landlord, many residents in a Houston Heights apartment complex are looking to move out and move on with their lives.
The Durham Heights Apartments on West 26th Street near the 610 Loop were without power, air conditioning and running water for well over a week following the severe weather outbreak on May 16.
It took up until this Saturday for the building to finally get power restored. And only then was it a slow process to get each and every apartment back online with electricity and air conditioning, which is a necessity in the brutal Houston heatwave this Memorial Day weekend.
CenterPoint says it was able to turn the power back on Saturday afternoon following required repairs which were the responsibility of the property owner.
In the meantime, residents were forced out after a City of Houston inspector came and deemed the property to be unlivable, posting a notice on the door.
A notice from the City of Houston ordering “life-safety elements” to be fixed at the Durham Heights Apartments after residents have been living without power and running water for well over a week. (Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.)
This ended up being the icing on the cake for residents who were already on the brink of bailing out and finding a new home.
“I am 65 years old. This is more than I signed on for,” said Linda Carrette. “It’s kind of a little bit, too late. By Thursday last week, I had to go ahead and find a place to live.”
She’s not alone.
Most people KPRC2′s Gage Goulding spoke with said they are seeking housing elsewhere.
“Unfortunately, I don’t see myself staying in a place that I can’t even reach out to with a simple question,” Opal Francis said.
Even though the power is back on, many residents say not everything is working or appliances were broken as a result of whatever caused the major electrical issue in the building.
“Yeah, my fridge is on the blink,” Carrette said.
On top of that, residents shouldn’t even be back in their homes as the city hasn’t yet rescinded their order stating the building is unlivable.
“We actually are not supposed to yet because the city has not removed then inhabitability status yet,” Francis said.
It’s that very tag that could be their ticket out of their lease, according to a housing attorney.
“I think that if there’s a notice on the door that’s been posted by any authority, like the city or fire marshal, I think a tenant can rely on that to break the lease,” Dana Karni of Lone Star Legal Aid explained. “We recommend that tenants go out of their way and pay for certified mail return receipt requested. We also highly suggest hand delivery, but memorialize it. That means pull out your cell phone and either video or audio. Record that you’re actually delivering a copy of the letter, and keep a copy of the letter for your own records.”
After that — move out.
“From the moment the tenant has moved out, the tenant is entitled to a pro-rata refund of the rent that they’ve paid and their entire security deposit back,” Karni said.
The same plan goes for repairs. Send a request for repair in writing and ensure its delivery.
Your landlord has seven days to make those repairs, which the state declares as “reasonable time.”
“That seven days would start when the landlord receives the letter. I think it’s imperative that tenants send out a letter requesting demanding a repair just as soon as possible,” said Karni. “Tenants have very few rights in Texas, but tenants do have some rights.”
Understanding those rights can help you if you’re ever stuck between a rock and a hard place with your landlord.
If you have questions or need assistance with an ongoing dispute, Lone Star Legal Aid may be able to help you. Call 713-652-0077.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
Here’s a look at this week’s hottest culinary happenings:
All week long
Volunteering at the Houston Food Bank
In the wake of the recent derecho storm and tornadoes that recently tore through Houston and the Gulf Coast, volunteers are as crucial than ever at the Houston Food Bank. The nonprofit is currently supporting relief efforts across the Greater Houston area, and is looking for helping hands to sort and pack product to deliver out into the community. Individuals – including kids – and groups are welcome to volunteer, and registration can be done online for shifts from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m., Monday to Saturday; 6 to 9 p.m., Monday to Friday; and 9 a.m. to noon Sundays. There is a significant need for volunteers during the 6-9 p.m. shifts.
Monday, May 27
Memorial Day Food and Drink Offerings
From military discounts in honor of fallen heroes to Monday brunch, burgers and beer buckets, check out our Memorial Day roundup for details on where to eat, drink and celebrate in Houston this holiday.
Tuesday, May 28
National Burger Day
Common Bond celebrates of National Burger Day with a limited-time-only Bacon Goat Cheese Burger, offered now through May 28 at Common Bond Bistro locations. Available for $16.99, the burger features a chuck, brisket, short rib blend with sundried tomato goat cheese, arugula, black pepper bacon and garlic aioli on an everything bagel brioche bun.
1891 American Eatery & Bar, 702 East 11th, is offering $12 Smash Burgers and fries for $12 on Tuesday, May 28 only. Made with chuck, brisket and rib patties for extra flavor, take your pick pick between Classic (LTO, mustard, pickles, everything bagel brioche bun), Smothered & Covered (grilled onions, cheddar cheese, aioli, brioche bun); High Heat (smoked queso, jack cheese roasted poblano, lettuce, ghost pepper aioli, brioche bun); and Mushroom (grilled portobello, herb goat cheese, provolone, red onion jam, arugula, everything bagel brioche bun).
Thursday, May 30
“East meets West Cuisine Wine Dinner” at Artisans Restaurant
Artisans, 5745 Westheimer, will host the Truffle Masters 2024 winners for an “East meets West Cuisine Wine Dinner” at 6:30 p.m. Chefs Niki Vongthong, Erik Cruz and Jio Dingayan will showcase their culinary mastery alongside pairings from Bandol Wines. Cost is $329 per person (tax and gratuity included).RSVP at 713-529-9111 or [email protected].
Chateau Pichon Baron Wine Dinner at Etoile Cuisine et Bar
Etoile Cuisine et Bar, 1101-11 Uptown Park, invites guests to a five-course Chateau Pichon Baron Wine Dinner, paired with six wines from the legendary Bordeaux winery beginning at 7 p.m. Dishes include seared Gulf shrimp with grapefruit and apple remoulade; duck palo in crust a l’orange; roasted rack of lamb; 30-day dry-aged ribeye with parsnip mousseline; and vanilla panna cotta with apricot sorbet. Cost is $175 per person plus tax and gratuity and rservations are required.
Friday–Saturday
IWA Sake Dinner at Le Jardinier
Le Jardinier, 5500 Main, is teaming up with IWA Sake, aka the ‘wine lovers’ sake, for a two-night event on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1. Founder and maker of IWA Sake Richard Geoffroy will welcome guests into the private dining room, taking guests on a journey through older, rare releases flown in from Japan paired with a five-course tasting menu curated by chef de cuisine Felipe Botero, featuring chilled Maine lobster; Comté cheese soufflé; risotto with blue crab, melted leeks and preserved lemon; poached Atlantic cod with sake and Kaluga caviar sauce; and “the white meringue” for dessert – comprised of matcha cream and cherry compote. Limited seats are offered priced at $375 per person.
New and ongoing specials
Asian American and Pacific Islander Restaurant Weeks
OCA-Greater Houston will host the fifth annual Asian American and Pacific Islander Restaurant Weeks, a city-wide event celebrating the culinary heritage of AAPI communities in Houston. No through June 15, each donation of $25 or more will unlock the AAPI Restaurant Week digital passport with a QR code to access special deals from over 50 AAPI and AAPI-owned restaurants and AAPI chefs throughout the city. This year’s participants include The Blind Goat, Lena’s Asian Kitchen, Blood Bros. BBQ, 93’ Til, South X Saigon, Aka Sushi House, Saigon Pho, Fung’s Kitchen, Six Ping Bakeries and more.
Weekend Jazz Brunch and $24 Set Menu at Brennan’s of Houston
In honor of graduates, Brennan’s, 3300 Smith, is extending its famed Sunday jazz brunch to include Saturdays throughout May. Guests can enjoy a special two-course celebration special for $24, along with the sounds of the Jazzy Brunch Bunch trio, who will be roaming the restaurant from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. The special two-course package is also available during weekday lunch, Tuesday through Friday, from 11 am to 2:30 pm.
Mental Health Awareness Month Collaboration with Equal Parts Brewing and Dawn Burrell
Equal Parts Brewing and chef Dawn Burrell are teaming up to create a special brew for Mental Health Awareness Month in May, a cause that is dear to Equal Parts team and Burrell as they have tragically lost loved ones to suicide. Beginning May 10, beer fans can sip the Shared Strength lager at Equal Parts Brewing, made with purple rice and the West African grain fonio to create a crisp and dry brew with slightly floral and nutty notes. The brewery will donate 100 percent of the brew’s proceeds to I’ll Have What She’s Having and its mental health efforts; and local joints including Underground Hall, Coltivare, EZ’s Liquor, Neil’s Bahr, Tacos A Go Go in Oak Forest, The Heights location of Local Foods, Anvil, Flying Saucer and Johnny’s Gold Brick will also pickup charitable kegs to tap beginning May 13.
Spicy Chilled at Ramen Tatsu-Ya
Spicy Chilled, the refreshing, brothless cold ramen dish, is back at all six Texas locations of Ramen Tatsu-Ya, including Houston’s location at 1722 California. The warm weather staple features spicy ramen with citrus soy dressing, ajitama (marinated soft boiled egg), cucumber, tomatoes, pirikara (which means “spicy” in Japanese) ground pork, chili oil, scallions and karashi mustard, giving it a wasabi-like punch. The dish’s official beverage pairing — Kyuri Kup — also returns, combining cucumber, simple syrup, yuzu and citrus over ice for a refreshing drink to help tame the ramen’s heat. Guests can choose to make the beverage boozy by adding sake. Spicy Chilled is priced at $14, with Kyuri Kup available for $5 ($6 with sake).
HOUSTON – Storm debris removal continues this week in Harris County.
The Houston OEM has provided several useful tips on how to separate debris after a severe weather event.
Many residents in the Houston area and Harris County are left to clean up debris after a storm struck the area. While many are trying to figure out what to do next, the Houston OEM recommends separating debris into six categories and where to place debris for pick up.
Debris should be placed curbside, without blocking the roadway or storm debris.
Any debris placed from the sidewalk toward your property will not be picked up.
Placing debris near or on trees, poles, or other structures makes removal difficult. This includes fire hydrants and meters.
If you don’t have a sidewalk, ditch, or utility line in front of your home, place debris at the edge of your property before the curb.
Normal household trash: Will not be picked up with debris as part of this program. Residents should continue to follow normal garbage removal schedule.
Vegetable debris: Leaves (do not place in bags), logs, plants and tree branches, etc.
Construction and demolition debris: Building materials, carpet, drywall, furniture, lumber, mattresses, pluming, etc.
Appliances and white goods: Air conditioners, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, water heaters, etc.
Electronics: Computers, radios, stereos, televisions, other devices with a cord.
Household hazardous waste: Cleaning supplies, batteries, lawn chemicals, oils, oil-based paints and stains, pesticides, etc.
A woman wanted by international police on murder charges is now behind bars after being arrested in Splendora.
Leo Acosta Sanchez was captured after officers with Splendora Police Department identified her while performing routine traffic patrol. She was undocumented and known to travel in the area. When her identity was confirmed, additional police arrived, and she was detained.
She was wanted internationally for crimes including murder.
Splendora PD announced the arrest on its Facebook page:
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
HOUSTON – A woman says she and her three young sons have been forced to live in hot, moldy conditions for three months now, at her Cuney Homes apartment in Third Ward.
This, after telling KPRC 2′s Deven Clarke that crews took away her air conditioning unit and never replaced it.
She says the Houston Housing Authority, which oversees the complex, has ignored her cries for help until now.
She says the conditions she’s been living in have been uncomfortable, sickening and expensive. Tonight, the HHA is apologizing and working to make things right.
When we went to the unit, the smell of sour air and mildew filled the top floor. The tenant—who asked not to be identified—is convinced the mold is causing the stench.
“I didn’t even know that she told me to pull the blinds back and she said, ‘it’s all over his blinds.’ That’s what the inspector showed me,” she said.
The mother of three young boys says black and white mold began growing three months ago, after a crew removed the upstairs AC unit in order to make repairs.
She says not only did they not replace the AC, but they also failed to properly seal the window.
“It was a whole bunch of furry stuff. It looks almost like a caterpillar,” the tenant said. “My baby is complaining.”
She says health issues with her 3-year-old began to surface.
“He started getting this raspy cough,” she said.
She says her oldest son also started getting nosebleeds, and she was forced to shell out money to stay in a hotel as long as she could afford it.
“This is unacceptable,” activist Candice Matthews said. “So, this requires a federal investigation, because those families should not be living like that. This is under the Houston Housing Authority. They have a responsibility to ensure that these people don’t live like this.”
“The Houston Housing Authority provides affordable homes and services to more than 60,000 low-income Houstonians. We are committed to transparency, safety, and serving the needs of our community.
We are reaching out to inform you of a recent development at Cuney Homes concerning a malfunctioning air conditioning unit. Our priority is always the comfort and well-being of our residents, and upon being made aware of the issue, we have taken immediate action.
We have been diligently working alongside our property managers and management team to address the situation swiftly. As of 4:30 PM, the AC unit was replaced by property management. For the inconvenience, we will also be providing the resident with accommodations at a local hotel during the duration of the holiday weekend.
We understand the inconvenience this may cause and assure you that we are working tirelessly to resolve the issue promptly. Our residents’ comfort and safety remain our utmost concern, and we are committed to providing updates as the situation progresses.”
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
