ReportWire

Tag: local

  • Body of missing 8-year-old girl discovered after draining hotel pool in northwest Houston

    Body of missing 8-year-old girl discovered after draining hotel pool in northwest Houston

    HOUSTON – The body of a missing 8-year-old girl was found in a hotel pool Saturday night, according to the Houston Police Department.

    The child was reported missing at 9:50 p.m. after disappearing near the pool area at the Doubletree, located at 12801 Northwest Freeway.

    According to a witness, the girl was reportedly trapped inside a pipe in the pool.

    Police said the child’s body was recovered after the pool was drained.

    The incident is being investigated as a drowning.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Brittany Taylor

    Source link

  • GasBuddy: Avg. Albany prices jump 8.8 cents in last week

    GasBuddy: Avg. Albany prices jump 8.8 cents in last week

    ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Average gasoline prices in Albany have risen 8.8 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.46/g on Monday, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 546 stations in Albany. Prices in Albany are 14.7 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and 2.7 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price has risen 2.0 cents in the last week and is $4.02 per gallon.

    According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Albany was priced at $3.19/g Sunday, while the most expensive was $3.79/g, a difference of 60.0 cents per gallon. The lowest price in the state Sunday was $2.35/g while the highest was $4.39/g, a difference of $2.04/g.

    The national average price of gasoline has risen 6.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.51/g Monday. The national average is up 27.0 cents per gallon from a month ago and 8.7 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

    Historical gasoline prices in Albany and the national average going back ten years:

    March 25, 2023: $3.43/g (U.S. Average: $3.42/g)
    March 25, 2022: $4.28/g (U.S. Average: $4.24/g)
    March 25, 2021: $2.88/g (U.S. Average: $2.86/g)
    March 25, 2020: $2.31/g (U.S. Average: $2.03/g)
    March 25, 2019: $2.62/g (U.S. Average: $2.65/g)
    March 25, 2018: $2.62/g (U.S. Average: $2.60/g)
    March 25, 2017: $2.30/g (U.S. Average: $2.28/g)
    March 25, 2016: $2.07/g (U.S. Average: $2.03/g)
    March 25, 2015: $2.51/g (U.S. Average: $2.42/g)
    March 25, 2014: $3.68/g (U.S. Average: $3.53/g)

    Neighboring areas and their current gas prices:

    Waterbury- $3.39/g, up 5.7 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.34/g
    Hartford- $3.38/g, up 8.4 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.30/g
    Springfield- $3.25/g, up 6.1 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.19/g

    “We’ve now seen the national average price of gasoline rising for four straight weeks, which isn’t uncommon for this time of year. What is uncommon is the number of attacks on Russian oil refiners; attacks which could have ripple effects worldwide if they continue,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Russia could see more capacity impacted by the attacks, forcing it to buy such products on the global market, pushing prices up everywhere. With oil prices now under more pressure and attacks potentially increasing on Russian refiners, we could be in for a few more weeks of rising prices. Significant as well is the fact that Americans are now seeing inflation again at the pump with prices higher than they were a year ago.”

    Michael Mahar

    Source link

  • Dog dies, family rescued in house fire southwest Houston

    Dog dies, family rescued in house fire southwest Houston

    A family dog has died in a tragic house fire Saturday night in southwest Houston, according to the Houston Fire Department.

    Firefighters responded to the home just before midnight in the 6200 block of West Bend Street.

    Crews were able to rescue one dog and revive it, the other dog died. The family members made it out safely and were evaluated by EMS.

    HFD Arson investigators will determine the cause of the fire.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Brittany Taylor

    Source link

  • 1 dead in crash involving school bus on Houston’s SW Freeway

    1 dead in crash involving school bus on Houston’s SW Freeway

    No injuries were reported on the bus

    Crash involving school bus on US 59 (Houston Transtar)

    HOUSTON – A crash involving a school bus on the Southwest Freeway has left one person dead Saturday.

    The Houston Police Department said the crash was reported at 4:11 p.m. in the southbound lanes of the Southwest Freeway near Fountain View.

    Police said no one on the bus was injured, but a person in another vehicle involved in the crash was killed.

    It is unclear whether any students were on the bus.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Michael Horton

    Source link

  • Funeral for NY National Guard member killed in border helicopter crash

    Funeral for NY National Guard member killed in border helicopter crash

    SCHUYLERVILLE, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Friday was a full day of events that culminated in mourners saying goodbye to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski at Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville. Frankoski was killed in a helicopter crash on March 8 in Texas.

    The day started with a funeral mass at Saint John the Evangelist and Saint Joseph’s Church in Rensselaer. More remembrance took place at the cemetery with a 21-gun salute, a policeman playing taps on trumpet, and a helicopter flyover.

    Frankoski had many ties to the Capital Region. She was born in Albany. She graduated from Columbia High School in 2013 and earned her associate degree in social science from SUNY Schenectady.

    Frankoski enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2016. She became a Chief Warrant Officer in 2019. The same year, she was deployed to Kuwait. And then in 2021, she was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 2.

    In lieu of flowers, the departed’s family is requesting donations to a scholarship fund in her name. 

    A second New York Guardsman, John Grassia, of Schenectady, was also killed in the crash. A third member, Jacob Pratt, was severely injured and continues to recover in a Texas hospital. The cause for the crash remains under investigation.

    Zion Decoteau

    Source link

  • USPS delays: Miami woman says $2k clock sent to Houston stuck in transit 114 days

    USPS delays: Miami woman says $2k clock sent to Houston stuck in transit 114 days

    SHARPSTOWN, Texas – 114 days have gone by, and the clock keeps ticking as Amanda Herro waits for her package to be delivered.

    “It was a Jaeger-LeCoultre 13-Joule Atmos Vendome clock. It was a mantel clock. So, it was big, and it was heavy,” said Herro.

    Herro sold the award-winning clock on eBay. She shipped the clock from a Miami post office to Houston on November 28.

    “It literally just disappeared off the map for ten days. No tracking updates, no nothing,” Herro said.

    “Then miraculously, it appeared in Houston, Missouri City initially,” Herro said.

    Herro’s tracking information shows the clock bounced back and forth between the Houston North and Missouri City distribution centers. She was able to file a refund through eBay for the customer, but getting the package back has still been a mess.

    Herro said the last update she got from the post office was back on January the 9.

    “It was sent to the recovery center, which I believe is in Atlanta, if I’m not mistaken,” Herro said.

    Herro has insurance on the package, but she said it has not helped her time-ticking situation.

    “I obviously hope to either get the clock back or be rightfully reimbursed, because I paid for insurance on the clock. It’s the worst part about it. I insured the clock for the $1,775, which was its value with proof of purchase from eBay that the customer paid for it. I just want the money, or I want the clock back,” Herro said.

    KPRC 2 Received this response from USPS:

    While a vast majority of mail in the Houston area is being delivered in a timely manner, the Postal Service is continually working to improve mail processing at the North Houston Processing and Distribution Center (P&DC) and South Houston Local Processing Center (LPC). Our goal is to provide timely and reliable mail and package delivery in the Houston area, which is and will remain a high priority for the management of the Postal Service. Customers are reminded that, if they need assistance with mailing or shipping concerns, they have a variety of options for reaching us, including contacting a manager or supervisor at their local Post Office, calling 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777), or visiting our website at www.usps.com. As we continue to modernize our processing facilities in the Houston area, we will report on our efforts.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Corley Peel

    Source link

  • Houston police chase vehicle with fake plates before car flips on Beltway

    Houston police chase vehicle with fake plates before car flips on Beltway

    HOUSTON – A police chase ended in a three-vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon in northwest Houston, according to the Houston Police Department.

    The chase started in the 3600 block of South Loop when a driver refused to pull over during a traffic stop. According to police, the driver of the vehicle ran a red light and had fake paper tags.

    “The speed is at 70 miles per hour,” an officer could be heard saying on dispatch audio courtesy of Broadcastify when the chase started. “It’s going to be a black Chevy Impala.”

    Police said the chase lasted around 20 minutes and the vehicle crashed near the 10100 block of West Sam Houston Parkway North. The suspect car, which had a male and female inside according to police, flipped upside down.

    An innocent person in a nearby vehicle had minor injuries and was taken to the hospital to be checked out, police said.

    In a photo shared with KPRC 2 by a witness, emergency crews could be seen using the jaws of life to rescue a person inside of upside down car.

    “Chases are unpredictable by nature, you do your best to control the situation by determining where the chase is happening,” former HPD officer, now lawyer Thomas Nixon said. He has scrutinized the department’s policy in the past.

    Under HPD’s current chase policy, “when the vehicle has no license plates … or … plates issued to a different vehicle, the officer may obtain authorization from a supervisor to engage in a … pursuit.”

    “It’s safe to assume they’re involved actively in crimes,” Nixon said. “It’s reasonable for an officer to assume that a vehicle is stolen when the plate doesn’t match the vehicle it’s on.”

    HPD revised the pursuit policy in September, after multiple chases ended in crashes that killed innocent people. At the time, Chief Troy Finner said the changes were intended to protect officers and the public.

    It’s unclear what charges the driver and passenger in Wednesday’s chase could face.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Brittany Taylor, Bryce Newberry

    Source link

  • Man in critical condition after possible road rage shooting on Sam Houston Parkway: How you can stay safe on the road

    Man in critical condition after possible road rage shooting on Sam Houston Parkway: How you can stay safe on the road

    HOUSTON – A 26-year-old man is in critical condition following a possible road rage shooting that shut down the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road for several hours Monday afternoon, according to the Houston Police Department.

    The shooting happened on S. Sam Houston Parkway and Hillcroft Avenue.

    Houston police said a driver in a dark-colored vehicle fired several rounds at the man before taking off.

    The man was hit and reportedly crashed into the freeway barriers on the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road at W. Fuqua Road about a mile and a half away.

    A witness called 911 and the man was taken to a hospital. Police haven’t been able to get much information from him because he’s in critical condition.

    No arrests have been made.

    While all of the details in this case are still being sorted out, officials are urging drivers to stay calm if they come across aggressive behavior while on the road.

    Triple A says you can avoid road rage incidents by keeping your hands on the wheel. You should also avoid making any gestures that might anger another driver, even “harmless” expressions of irritation like shaking your head. Be a cautious and courteous driver. Signal every time you merge or change lanes, and whenever you turn.

    KPRC 2 is not implying the victim in this case did anything wrong. It’s still not clear what led up to the shooting, and Houston Police say that’s all a part of the investigation.

    Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Brittany Taylor

    Source link

  • Student ‘emergency expelled’ from Klein ISD after loaded gun found at Klein Cain High School

    Student ‘emergency expelled’ from Klein ISD after loaded gun found at Klein Cain High School

    HARRIS COUNTY – A student has been ‘emergency expelled’ from Klein ISD after reportedly bringing a loaded gun to campus.

    In an email to parents, representatives for the district said a loaded handgun was recovered at the school after administrators and district police received an anonymous tip.

    The student was immediately located and detained, and no injuries were reported.

    “The student has been emergency expelled from the district and is facing felony charges. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities, and we will continue to work closely with local law enforcement and school administration to ensure a secure learning environment for all,” the email said in part.

    This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Faith Braverman

    Source link

  • How to make sure the used car you’re buying is ready to hit the road before you shell out cash

    How to make sure the used car you’re buying is ready to hit the road before you shell out cash

    HOUSTON – Is the used vehicle you’re buying ready to hit the road?

    One Houston police sergeant says many times it’s not, and the person buying it has no idea. In some cases, there could inspection issues or maybe the vehicle is a salvage.

    That sergeant says buying a vehicle that’s not as its advertised not only creates issues for the buyer, but also law enforcement officials who could be focusing on more serious crimes. He says that in many cases the issues could be avoided.

    Last Thursday, we introduced you to Rafael Perro, who paid cash for tax title and license for this 2009 Subaru Forester from Reliable Cash Cars on Highway 249. He still hasn’t been able to register it a year and a half later, because the DMV said he was missing necessary paperwork.

    The sergeant who works the traffic enforcement division saw our story and ran the paper tag the dealer gave Perro. He found out it wasn’t legit, because the vehicle hadn’t been inspected since 2019. Perro bought the vehicle in 2022. To issue a paper plate, the vehicle had to have been inspected within the past 6 months.

    The sergeant told us about two websites you check to help make sure your car is up to standard before you buy it.

    The first is www.mytxcar.org you can enter the vehicles vin number and review state inspection reports.

    The sergeant also identified another growing problem among used car purchasers. Dealers selling salvaged vehicles without disclosing that to the buyer, which is a state-jail felony.  

    The second website we want to tell you about is for the National Insurance Crime Bureau. You can visit www.nicb.org/vincheck to find out the vehicles salvage status.

    When it comes to the issue of paper tags, the sergeant warns drivers to be extra careful because the use of a fake tags is a misdemeanor that could be applied to both the seller and the person driving the vehicle. A legit tag should have a watermark of the Texas flag, most of the fake ones are just copies.

    You can also scan the QR code on the Tag to ensure it come back to the vehicle.

    You can also go to the DMV or a police station and have someone run the vin number with the plate number.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Deven Clarke

    Source link

  • Angleton advised to prepare for severe storms Saturday night

    Angleton advised to prepare for severe storms Saturday night

    ANGLETON, Texas – After the Houston area faced severe weather Friday evening, the City of Angleton is advising its citizens to prepare for another night of intense conditions.

    In a Facebook post shared Saturday evening, the City of Angleton Office of Emergency Management gave a timeline for the anticipated storms and an update on how officials expect the city to be impacted.

    The storms are supposed to start around midnight tonight and last as late as Sunday afternoon.

    The post acknowledged that many Angleton citizens are still without power after Friday’s storms.

    “We understand it is difficult without power, but [Texas-New Mexico Power] and the City of Angleton Office of Emergency Management are working to support our community,” the post read.

    The post also said that TNMP has two 6-man teams and 7 contractor teams working to restore power to the community. Even with that manpower, the issues with power likely won’t be fixed right away.

    “Due to the level of damage received, getting the proper supplies is taking some time, and they are making their way throughout town,” the post read.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Michael Horton

    Source link

  • New welcome sign greets visitors to New Port Richey, inspiring more projects

    New welcome sign greets visitors to New Port Richey, inspiring more projects

    NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — If you’ve taken a drive around New Port Richey recently, you may have noticed something new.

    It’s a brand new welcome sign greeting visitors to the city as they enter from US-19. 

    What You Need To Know

    • A new welcome sign greets visitors to New Port Richey

    • The sign is part of an ongoing project to rejuvenate the city, inspiring more revitalization around the city

    • Redevelopment around New Port Richey has come a long way, a stark contrast, City Manager Debbie Manns says, from 10 years ago

    It’s part of an ongoing project to rejuvenate the city — a project that is inspiring more revitalization around the city.

    “I think of opportunity and all of the things that are just yet to come,” said Debbie Manns, City Manager for the City of New Port Richey.

    Taking a look around downtown New Port Richey, you’ll see a variety of businesses. A sign of not only a healthy city, but one that is actually thriving.

    “Cities with downtowns, these days, are the envy of every other community,” she said. “For us to have a beautiful, walkable community with a river that runs through it, a park in the downtown — we certainly have the assets that any other community would envy.”

    It’s a stark contrast, as Manns says, from 10 years ago. A time where properties stood vacant with boarded-up windows.

    “One of the first things that the city council tasked me with was to work with them and help advance the city. The clearest strategy, to some success, was to energize and mobilize the downtown area,” said Manns.

    Plenty of projects have come along to transform downtown and more are on the way. One area that will be transformed is Railroad Square. The project, Mann said, is slated to start in the next two months.

    “It’s not particularly well designed and most are very confused by the design. As you can see, people park on the sidewalk as these vehicles all are, and that only leaves the roadway for pedestrians,” she said.

    The $3.3 million project will expand all the way down to Grand Boulevard.

    “We’ll be bumping out these sidewalks so that the businesses that exist here can go ahead and take advantage of some additional public space and provide for outdoor seating for their patrons,” Manns said.

    It’s not just population density, Manns said, that will help the city continue to thrive. But also the thousands of drivers traveling along US-19 who decide to stop and visit.

    “They can make a choice to make a quick turn and be in a historic downtown in seconds,” she said.

    Enjoying what the city has developed both today and tomorrow.

    Construction of the new welcome sign is almost complete. Manns said a few other additions will be made to the sign, including a digital board that will notify visitors of upcoming events. The sign is expected to be done in May.

    Calvin Lewis

    Source link

  • Sugar Land man arrested after driving more than an hour to meet a child for sex

    Sugar Land man arrested after driving more than an hour to meet a child for sex

    THE WOODLANDS – A Houston-area man is in police custody after being involved in a sting operation.

    Max T. Lambert, 62, was arrested by the Human Trafficking Unit of the Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office.

    He allegedly drove over an hour from his home in Sugar Land to The Woodlands with the intent of meeting someone he believed to be 14 years old.

    Lambert was charged with Online Solicitation of a Minor. He was also found be carrying a felonious quantity of Methamphetamine, as well as a prescription drug used to enhance sexual intercourse. He was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Michael Horton

    Source link

  • Rain and hail pummel NRG Park sending rodeo-goers scrambling

    Rain and hail pummel NRG Park sending rodeo-goers scrambling

    HOUSTON – Severe weather in the Houston area caused the rodeo to shut down temporarily, but many of the amenities are back up and running as rodeo fans brave the storms.

    The outdoor carnival stopped operations for a short while, but most of the smaller rides and attractions have resumed action since the weather has passed.

    Even with the happy ending, it was a wild scene just a short time ago. As is the case with many storms, the rain and thunder hit the rodeo out of nowhere. Attendees went from cautiously enjoying the festivities to scrambling inside for coverage in mere minutes.

    Amanda and Bianca, two rodeo attendees from Spring, were among a crowd of people that clambered underneath a tent when rain and hail began flooding the area.

    “It was crazy,” one of the two said. “We were all huddled under this tent, and we were all just kind of close together and leaning on each other. The hail was actually hitting us through the tents. It was insane.”

    Despite the harsh conditions, the two are still pumped to see the Jonas Brothers tonight, and they should be! The concert will likely not be impacted by the storms, as it will take place indoors at NRG Stadium.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Michael Horton, Deven Clarke

    Source link

  • No time to take cover? How to protect your vehicle during a hail storm

    No time to take cover? How to protect your vehicle during a hail storm

    HOUSTON – If you’re from Texas, then you are no stranger to severe weather and its damaging impact on vehicles and property — especially as hail season typically runs between March and May.

    During a hail storm, the first thought that runs through my mind … oh hail no! My car!

    Especially for those who do not have a covering or a garage to keep their vehicle safe during a hail storm. Or maybe you were driving home and started to hear those terrifying sounds of frozen ice hitting the roof of your vehicle and windshield.

    Here are 9 steps you can take to prevent hail damage to your vehicle, per McCarthy Collision Centers:

    1.) Buy a hail car cover. It may prevent shattered windshields and hail dents on your vehicle — or at least minimize it. There are several options on Amazon to buy one depending on your budget or your nearest Home Depot.

    2.) Try a thick blanket. You may not have time to buy a hail cover but if you have some thick blankets to spare — try throwing them on top of your vehicle and windshield. Remember to tuck the ends of the blanket to the doors, under the hood, inside the truck and even the windows. Be sure the close them tightly, ensuring you have access to access to door handles to reenter your vehicle once the storm passes.

    3.) Use floor mats or rugs on windows. If you don’t have a thick enough blanket, try using your vehicle’s floor mats as a hail windshield cover. Place the softer, carpeted side on the window and the hard rubberized side facing up.

    4.) Cardboard boxes could work. Just make sure the boxes are thick and sturdy — the thin ones will disintegrate when it gets wet. It’s better to use a thicker panel of cardboard, like corrugated appliance box, which offers survivability in hailstorms.

    5.) Bath or beach towels. For the towels, use the same tactic as the blankets and fold all towels into the car securely. You may have to get creative and use more towels, depending on the size of your vehicle.

    6.) Fold your side mirrors in. Hail can easily crack side-view mirrors.

    7.) If you’re caught in the middle of a hail storm while driving, safely pull over and take cover. Parking under a tree or near trees can help break the fall of some of the hail’s impact. Just be cautious if the storm has high wind, as some trees could possibly topple over — then you have a bigger problem. Park under a tree at your own risk.

    8.) If you own an SUV with a roof rack or crossbars, try placing plywood on the top of it. This will offer a little more protection from hail dents on your roof and windshields. Always sure the plywood properly if you’re experiencing windy conditions.

    9.) Drive to the nearest indoor parking garage.

    What to do if it’s too late?

    If the damage is already done, here are several steps to take as soon as you have storm damage.

    The Texas Department of Insurance helps people navigate what to do after a storm hits.

    • Call your insurance company to report the damage.

    • Take pictures and video of the damage and don’t throw anything away until your insurance adjuster tells you.

    • Make temporary repairs to prevent more damage. Remove standing water. Cover broken windows and holes to keep the rain out.

    • Keep a list of the repairs and save receipts. Don’t make permanent repairs before the insurance adjuster sees the damage.

    Helpful information to know about filing storm damage claims.

    • Keep a record of everyone you talked to with your company.

    • Be ready to answer questions about the damage.

    • Ask about an advance payment if you need help quickly.

    • Ask about living expenses. Most policies will cover some of the costs you have if you are unable to live in your home because of damage that is covered by your insurance. Keep your receipts for these costs.
    • Don’t sign over insurance checks to contractors. The Better Business Bureau says you should get an invoice from the contractor and pay them directly (preferably with a credit card, which offers additional fraud protection over other forms of payment). Don’t sign any documents that give the contractor any rights to your insurance claims. If you have questions, contact your insurance company or agent.

    TDI has several resources that can help storm victims including what to know about deductibles. TDI can provide contact information for your insurance company or help with questions about how to file a claim. Call the Help Line from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday to Friday: 800-252-3439. You can also check the Better Business Bureau for contractor reviews or warnings.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Brittany Taylor

    Source link

  • Houston Police Union President talks about suspended incident reports and crime rate numbers

    Houston Police Union President talks about suspended incident reports and crime rate numbers

    HOUSTON – The fallout continues over thousands of incident reports suspended due to the lack of personnel.

    “I think the credibility of previous statements by the city of Houston about ‘crime was going in the right direction,’ It’s been revealed that that was a spin,” Mayor John Whitmire said.

    The mayor addressed concerns with the city’s crime rate on the same day he announced who will oversee collecting data from police.

    KPRC2 Investigates first highlighted this problem earlier this month, and 2018 seems to be the year where there was a massive difference.

    In homicide cases, HPD reported 107 cases, however if you look at the numbers that were reported federally, it jumps up to 281—making a difference of 174.

    We compared numbers from other crimes that revealed a much higher calculation.

    On top of thousands of incident reports being suspended, Mayor John Whitmire is sounding the alarm about the city’s crime rate—something he says is being manipulated because of inaccurate reporting.

    KPRC2 Investigates was first reported the local and federal numbers the Houston Police Department provided to us and the National Incident -Based Reporting System also known as NIBRS. They don’t match.

    For aggravated assaults, HPD reports 4924 cases. However, 13,800 crimes were reported to NIBRS. That’s a difference of more than 8,000.

    For robbery, HPD reported 3649 crimes. More than 8,700 were reported to NIBRS, which signals a difference of 5,100.

    For motor vehicle thefts, HPD reports 4566 cases. 11,969 cases were reported to NIBRS. That difference is more than 7,400.

    I showed the numbers to Houston Police Officers Union President Douglas Griffith, who believes the difference in statistics in 2018 has to do with the reporting to NIBRS.

    “We used to deal with the Uniform Crime Report, and that was numbers that went to the FBI from every state, every department, that was supposed to send it to this clearinghouse, who then discerned what the stats were,” Griffith said. “We switched to NBIRS, and I will say that may have been in 2018, and the reporting standards are different than they were from the Uniform Crime Report. So, I believe that that could be a reason,” he said.

    Last week, Chief Troy Finner was asked about the NIBRS reports being off.

    “I don’t feel comfortable with any of the statistics,” Chief Finner said.

    “Understand, a lot of these numbers that are reported to the FBI are numbers that help us get federal grants. So, if our numbers are higher, we’re going to do better with federal grants,” Griffith said.

    More money is something the mayor wants for the department, as they tackle staffing issues and bring in a new panel to investigate how HPD handled the incident reports across the last eight years.

    “We need to find out why there is a difference and make sure that we’re all reporting properly to the FBI,” Griffith said.

    Former Police Chief Art Acevedo also weighing in tonight, saying he did nothing wrong during his time as Police Chief. That’s something else the panel could be weighing.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Re’Chelle Turner

    Source link

  • Where to Enjoy Easter Sunday Brunch in Houston in 2024

    Where to Enjoy Easter Sunday Brunch in Houston in 2024

    With Easter coming up on Sunday, March 31, it’s time to make your holiday brunch plans. These Houston restaurants are ready to make Easter special with classic plates and morning cocktails, egg hunts, live jazz, family-friendly brunch buffets, prix fixe affairs and more.

    Artisans, 5745 Westheimer
    The newly reopened Galleria-area restaurant will offer a five-course pre-fixe meal for $99 per person starting at 11 a.m. Indulge in French specialties such as corn chowder, savory crepess, filet mignon, lobster and beignets.

    Backstreet Cafe, 1103 South Shepherd
    The homegrown classic will offer a special three-course Easter brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring live jazz and courses such as chilled creamy artichoke soup, braised lamb shank, steak and eggs, and carrot cake. Cost is $56 per person, $16 per child, plus tax, gratuity and beverages.

    Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith
    Reservations can be secured for one of three family-friendly Easter weekend gatherings by calling 713-522-9711. First up is a Brunch with the Bunny on Friday, March 29 with seatings from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., where families can get their picture with the Easter Bunny and enjoy a festive three-coursse brunch for $67++ per person. On Saturday, March 30, A Very Hoppy Brunch offers brunch alongside live bunnies from Boling Bunny Farms, with seatings from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Easter Sunday Brunch will feature a three-course meal of seasonal Creole fare for $72 per person, with seatings from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    The Capital Grille    , multiple locations
    Enjoy chef-prepared brunch specials such a freshly baked blueberry bread, dry-aged NY strip and eggs, butter-poached lobster frittata and more. A children’s brunch menu will also be available.

    Caracol, 2200 Post Oak
    Caracol’s bounteous Sunday brunch buffet will be offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Easter, featuring brunch favorites, a carving station, seasonal plates and specialty Easter desserts. Cost is $55 per person, $15 per child, plus beverage, tax and gratuity.

    Cocody, 1971 West Gray
    In addition to its expansive brunch menu, Cocody will offer a three-course Easter menu for $95 per person, available from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Feature include pan-seared scallops served with english pea velouté, herb-crusted Colorado double lamb chops au jus with crispy pommes anna and glazed candied beets and Cocody Easter chocolate eggs.

    CRÚ, 2800 Kirby, 9595 Six Pines
    Enjoy a Napa-style wine country Easter Brunch with a la carte items and three-course prix fixe ($45) menu, plus $6 mimosas, bellinis and ciprianis along with discounted prices on Domaine Chandon Rose and Veuve Cliquot Yellow Label by the glass. Highlights include smoked salmon deviled egg toast, goat cheese beignet, crab cake benedict, steak and eggs, and butter toasted lemon pound cake. Brunch runs from 10 am to 3 pm.

    Dario’s Steakhouse & Seafood, 14315 Cypress Rose Hill
    Enjoy Easter Sunday brunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with eats from red snapper in brown butter sauce to steak and eggs Benedict.

    Eddie V’s, 2800 Kirby, 12848 Queensbury
    Enjoy a prix fixe two-course brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with live music starting at 4 p.m. Highlight include warm apple cinnamon scone butter-poached Maine lobster quiche Florentine, steak and frittata, and Bloodys and Belliniss. A children’s brunch menu is available as well.

    Etoile Cuisine et Bar, 1101-11 Uptown Park
    Etoile Cuisine et Bar is celebrating Easter with a special brunch menu from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., available for  $68++ per adult and with a kid’s menu available for $32++. Dine on dishes such as spring vegetable risotto, smoked salmon eggs benedict and meyer lemon tarte with raspberry sorbet.

    Eugene’s Gulf Coast Cuisine, 1985 Welch
    Easter brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with features including Boudin and Tasso Benedict, Shrimp and Grits and Eugene’s homemade French Toast. Folks can also meet the Easter Bunny from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    Galiana’s Tex Mex & Agave Bar, 24110 US-290 #500
    Easter Sunday brunch runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with features from menudo to carne asada con huevos.

    Guard and Grace, 500 Dallas
    Enjoy brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with specials including “Churro” Monkey Bread, G&G Deviled Eggs, Crab Cake Benedict and Lobster Cavatelli.

    Hamsa, 5555 Morningside
    Hamsa has recently rolled out its Sunday brunch, offered from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Easter brunch dishes include lamb hummus, shakshuka, omelettes, lamb chops and Easter dessert specials in collaboration with Badolina Bakery. Kids brunch options are offered as well.

    Heights & Co., 1343 Yale
    The neighborhood spot invites guests to enjoy Easter Sunday on the patio, with an eggs benedict special in addition to its regular brunch menu and half-off bottles of bubbles and rose for the holiday. Brunch is offered from noon to 3 p.m.

    Hugo’s, 1600 Westheimer
    For Easter Sunday, Hugo’s will serve its famous Sunday brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests will find their usual brunch favorites as well as a carving station, some new seasonal items and specialty Easter desserts. Cost is $55 per person, $15 per child, plus beverage, tax and gratuity.

    click to enlarge

    Easter Sunday brunch comes with a visit from the Easter Bunny at Hungry’s.

    Photo by Julie Soefer

    Hungry’s, 2356 Rice, 14714 Memorial
    The Easter Bunny will be hopping from table to table at both locations this Easter, while guests enjoy brunch specialties like the crab cake eggs Benedict, French omelet sandwich and chocolate chip waffles.

    Jane’s Dine Inn
    Chef Jane Wild will offer Easter Sunday brunch at her communal dining experience, with each table filled with baskets and platters inspired by seasonal ingredients from local farms. Cost is $95 per person with two drinks and there are two seatings available: 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.

    Kenny & Ziggy’s, 1743 Post Oak
    The deli will be open and serving sky-scraping sandwiches, entree salads, smoked fish, comfort foods like stuffed cabbage and Hungarian goulash; and desserts from cheesecake to fresh-made cookies, cakes and pies.

    Marvino’s Italian Steakhouse, 24002 Northwest Freeway
    Enjoy Easter Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with options like classic eggs Benedict, fluffy French toast, chicken and waffle, mimosas and bloody Marys.

    Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, 7 Hope
    Moody Garden’s Easter Sunday brunch buffet will be held in the Frances Anne Moody Ballroom, with reservations from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy breakfast classics; seafood, pasta and carving stations; holiday favorites like leg of lamb; and traditional cake and pies.

    Ouisie’s Table, 3939 San Felipe
    Ouisie’s special Easter Brunch menu will be a la carte, with reservations beginning at 10 a.m.

    Perry’s Steakhouse, multiple locations
    Perry’s will offer an Easter Sunday ham special, available from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for $49. Enjoy a choice of pear salad or carrot-ginger soup followed by a sliced, double-smoked, triple-glazed ham served with whipped potatoes and green bean almondine. Add an additional serving of white chocolate cheesecake for an additional $9.

    Picos, 3601 Kirby
    Pico’s will be offering a special Easter brunch buffet featuring a chef’s carving station with belly porchetta, prime rib and picanha, a raw bar with oyster shooters, oysters on the half shell, ceviches and aguachiles; an omelet and waffle station; and dessert bar with Easter themed treats.

    Prego, 2520 Amherst
    Prego will be open at noon for brunch with its regular menu plus daily specials including veal chops, halibut and lamb chops.

    Rainbow Lodge, 2011 Ella
    The Lodge will be offering a special three-course Easter menu for $60 per person, plus beverage, tax and gratuity; with a $35 kids’ menu. Brunch highlights include fried green tomatoes with shrimp and crab salad, smoked duck gumbo, grilled spring lamb loin, rainbow trout, steak and eggs, and a seasonal dessert trio. Easter brunch will be served 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Rockhouse, 6025 Richmond
    The Southern kitchen’s Bread & Butter buffet brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Easter specials prime rib, smoked oxtails, fried chicken and catfish, french toast and waffles alongside live music.

    Savoir and Patton’s, 1344 Yale
    From 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests are invited to partake in a curated three-course Easter Pre-Fixe menu at $45 per person. Choices include Vova Purgatorio, Beef Tartare, Beef Debris Benedict and Smoked Salmon Tartine, plus desserts including Cronut and Chocolate Tart. A two-course kids menu will also be available for $20.

    Seasons 52, multiple locations
    Seasons 52 is serving a la carte Easter Brunch featuring seasonal ingredients, offered in the dining room from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. Enjoy selections such as crab and cheddar quiche, apricot-glazed spiral ham and wood-grilled shrimp and grits. .

    State of Grace, 3258 Westheimer
    Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with a special visit from the Easter Bunny), guests are invited to a festive brunch featuring cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting, chicken fried chicken and crawfish benedict, among other highlights.

    Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen, 6401 Woodway, 1140 Eldridge
    Sylvia’s will be bringing back its Sunday brunch buffet just for the holiday, offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The buffet is filled withTex-Mex classics and more for $29.99 plus tax, gratuity and beverages ($12 for kids under age 12).

    Toro Toro, 1300 Lamar
    Enjoy brunch classics with pan-Latin flair, with Easter offerings including a seafood and sushi station,  carving station with prime rib and cedar plank salmon, Texas charcuterie, breakfast favorites, a grand dessert display and kid’s station. Cost is $165 for adults and $65 for children 12 and under, with reservations required from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    Truluck’s, 5350 Westheimer
    Opening at noon, guests can enjoy Truluck’s regular menu and seasonal accompaniments, plus a special kids menu offered for the holiday. All locations will also feature the Spring Fling cocktail ($17), served March 29-31 in celebration of the Easter holiday and featuring guava, Spanish liqueur Licor 43 and notes of vanilla and Valencia orange.

    URBE, 1101 Uptown Park
    URBE will be offering a multi-course Easter Menu which includes choice of starter and entrée and a dessert buffet for $49 per adult and $15 for kids, plus beverages, tax and gratuity. The in-house bakery will be making special Easter pastries and cookies. Brunch will be served 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    The Warwick, 5888 Westheimer
    The Warwick will be serving Easter Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering specials from smoked ribeye and garlic mash to grilled cedar plank redfish alongside regular classics like tres leches french toast, smoked oxtail hash and carrot cake.

    Xochi, 1777 Walker
    Xochi’s famous Sunday brunch buffet will be offered on Easter from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. alongside live music by Sol y Son. Cost is $55 per person, $15 per child, plus beverage, tax and gratuity.

    Brooke Viggiano

    Source link

  • City councilmember concerned that possible loss of more than 100 HISD principals could have detrimental long-term effect

    City councilmember concerned that possible loss of more than 100 HISD principals could have detrimental long-term effect

    HOUSTON – Nearly half of HISD principals are in the hot seat after poor performance reviews.

    They could lose their jobs.

    Houston City Councilmember at Large, Position 4, Dr. Letitia Plummer, is concerned about the long-term effects that losing certified principals could have on our city and communities, years from now. She says it’s a setup for failure.

    “It’s incredibly alarming because I believe the way in which the system is being managed right now is not going to allow us to be successful,” Plummer said.

    Based on performance reviews, the Houston Independent School District says 125 principals have demonstrated the leadership qualities needed to keep their jobs for the next school year. At the same time, 120 others, nearly half of all HISD principals, must show significant improvement to keep their jobs.

    “How are principals supposed to do their jobs when you’re hiring teachers that are not equipped to handle a classroom,” Plummer said.

    She says the focus should be on those leading the classrooms. Teachers in Texas don’t have to be certified because of a state exemption.

    “So not only are you not certified academically to teach, but you also don’t understand the behavioral challenges that you may deal with, with the kids. Social issues, challenges with the children,” Plummer said.

    She says that includes medical issues such as ADHD and Autism that may be diagnosed or undiagnosed. Plummer says a process to fast-track teacher accreditation would improve schools’ performance and increase principal performance, but feels that’s not being prioritized.

    “We’re just kind of giving them continuing education courses in a way, courses that give them a little bit more support but not putting them in situations where they can be accredited,” Plummer said.

    Plummer says ultimately, students will suffer most. She says this could contribute to an increase in some crimes years later when some students become adults and can’t get jobs. An issue that would affect us all.

    She hopes this story helps raise awareness within the TEA to review the problems and possible long-term effects.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Deven Clarke

    Source link

  • “#DoItForVeezy”: North Shore community mourns death of Jarvon Coles

    “#DoItForVeezy”: North Shore community mourns death of Jarvon Coles

    HOUSTON, Texas – Just three months after appearing in the 6A Division I State Championship game, the North Shore High School football community faced unspeakable tragedy.

    On Saturday night, North Shore senior Jarvon Coles was killed in a drive-by shooting near a house party in Humble, Texas.

    Coles, 18, played linebacker for the school’s football team. He was a team captain, had a 4.2 GPA and landed offers from multiple colleges across the state to continue his football career. Coaches and teammates said he had decided to play at Lamar University.

    Standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 190 pounds, he didn’t have the size of a traditional linebacker, but he savored the opportunity to prove his doubters wrong and outwork his peers.

    “All my football career from little league on I have heard that I was not good enough for one reason or another, too short, too slow, to light etc. [sic],” his Hudl profile bio read. “But I have proved them wrong at every level.”

    Defensive Coordinator Garrett Cross knew Jarvon for six years and attested to his desire to lead by example on and off the field.

    “He just did everything right,” Cross said. “He took care of business off the field. He never got in any trouble. That’s what we all hope for when we raise our own kids. We want them to grow up to be guys just like him.”

    His endless motor and can-do attitude resonated with his coaches and teammates, and many of them have paid tribute to him on social media.

    Assistant offensive line coach Kyle Herridge called him a “truly incredible human being” in a Tweet.

    Junior edge rusher Cedric Henderson posted a video of Coles’ highlights with the caption “#Doitforveezy”, a reference to his nickname.

    Senior linebacker and Lamar commit Dillon Dixon posted photos to tribute Coles and referenced their shared desire to play football together at Lamar after graduation.

    Cross said everyone on the team is hurting, but he knows Jarvon’s legacy will live on at North Shore for years to come.

    “He was loved by so many,” Cross said. “His spirit is going to live on. I know he won’t be with us physically, but his spirit will be with us for a long time.”

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Michael Horton

    Source link

  • HCSO to provide update on deadly shooting of 12-year-old boy day after arrest of his mom’s ex-boyfriend

    HCSO to provide update on deadly shooting of 12-year-old boy day after arrest of his mom’s ex-boyfriend

    HOUSTON – Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, along with his team, will provide updates on the deadly shooting of a 12-year-old boy Friday morning.

    On Monday, March 4, Carlos Fernandez was shot to death while inside his family’s apartment located in east Harris County.

    According to investigators, a shooter went up to a window of Fernandez’s apartment and fired directly into the child’s bedroom, killing him. The shooter then fled in a pickup truck.

    Sheriff Gonzalez said Carlos’ little sisters, ages 6 and 7, were also in the home at the time of the shooting, but they were not hurt.

    Loved ones said Carlos’ mother and another man inside the home, also dodged the gunfire.

    Neighbors who heard the chaos said they have been concerned about the family’s safety in the past. Three days before Carlos’ death, neighbors saw deputies outside the family’s apartment.

    On Wednesday, HCSO identified the suspected shooter as the mom’s ex-boyfriend, 27-year-old Terry Bryan Rivera.

    “Rivera was in a previous dating relationship with the victim’s mother and had two children with her,” Sheriff Gonzalez revealed Wednesday night.

    Rivera has since been charged with capital murder. He is not currently in custody and is considered to be armed and dangerous.

    Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.

    Ninfa Saavedra

    Source link