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High Plains Headlines for 4-24-2026


Across Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle, this week’s headlines span education partnerships, public safety incidents, major infrastructure projects, and community events. From classrooms to construction sites, local institutions continue shaping both workforce development and regional services. Here’s a look at the latest brief updates.

AmTech Students Present Results After 13-Week Pantex Partnership

Amarillo ISD students showcased their final projects Wednesday morning following a 13-week collaboration between AmTech Career Academy and Pantex. Students worked as industrial consultants in the district’s auto maintenance shop, applying the Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle to improve efficiency and streamline operations. The program emphasized teamwork, lean methodologies, and real-world experience with business and industry partners. Officials said students concluded the initiative by presenting their findings and reflecting on key lessons learned.

WTAMU to Host Free Homeschool College Prep Conference

West Texas A&M University will hold a free conference for homeschool students and families on May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Legacy Hall at the Jack B. Kelley Student Center in Canyon. The event will include lunch and guidance on preparing for college, including course selection, transcript building, dual credit options, and the admissions process. WT officials said the university is focused on providing personalized support for homeschool students through academic and enrichment opportunities.

DeBault Title and Andrea’s Project Launch Free Ride Initiative

DeBault Title has partnered with Andrea’s Project to offer free Uber rides to and from sponsored events as part of an effort to reduce impaired driving. Andrea’s Project, a nonprofit honoring Andrea Elizalde, focuses on preventing drunk driving through education and youth outreach. The program allows event organizers to request ride vouchers with minimal restrictions to encourage safe transportation. Officials say the initiative aligns with Alcohol Awareness Month and broader community safety efforts.

Sod Poodles Announce Revamped Weiner Wednesday Promotion

The Amarillo Sod Poodles are bringing back Weiner Wednesday at Hodgetown next month with a new twist: 25-cent hot dogs. The special will take place Wednesday, May 20, when the team faces the Northwest Arkansas Naturals at 7:05 p.m. Fans can also purchase two newly designed Weiner Wednesday shirts. Tickets are available through the team’s official website.

Amarillo Police Investigate Stabbing, One Arrested

The Amarillo Police Department is investigating a stabbing that left one person injured Tuesday in southwest Amarillo. Officers responded to an apartment complex in the 2700 block of Virginia Street following an altercation inside a unit. Police arrested 52-year-old Pendarou Crain on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and the case remains under investigation.

Gas Leak Prompts Mobile Home Evacuations in South Amarillo

The Amarillo Fire Department evacuated several mobile homes Thursday morning after a gas leak was reported in the 8500 block of South Western Street. Crews discovered a cut gas line connected to a mobile home and cleared nearby residences as a precaution while hazmat teams monitored conditions. Atmos shut off the gas supply while repairs were underway. No injuries were reported.

Pantex Breaks Ground on Flexible Support Facility II

Pantex has begun construction on its new Flexible Support Facility II, a 14,000-square-foot office building designed to improve coordination and efficiency among employees. The facility will support teams working on complex projects and incorporate updated technologies for collaboration. Completion is expected by mid-2028, with additional facilities also planned to expand operations. Pantex continues its role as the nation’s primary nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly site.

Randall County Grand Jury Indicts Man on Child Sex Abuse Charges

A Randall County grand jury has indicted William Lowe on multiple child sex abuse-related charges, including sexual assault of a child, indecency with a child, possession of child pornography, and online solicitation of a minor. Court records indicate allegations span from June 2024 through January 2026. Two additional individuals face proceedings for allegedly failing to report suspected child abuse connected to the case. The investigation remains ongoing.

League of Women Voters to Host Water Supply Discussion

The League of Women Voters of Amarillo will host a public discussion on the region’s water supply Saturday, April 25, at the Amarillo Area Foundation. The program begins at 9:30 a.m., with the presentation starting at 10 a.m. Britney Britten of the Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District will lead the discussion on water security and regional supply management.