Here’s a look at several stories and public meetings making news across the Texas Panhandle. Developments include an arrest in a Pampa shooting, upcoming county and city discussions, and a fatal house fire in Borger.
Pampa Man Arrested After Recreation Park Shooting
A 28-year-old Pampa man has been arrested in connection with a shooting that seriously injured another man Tuesday morning at Recreation Park. Christian Leith was taken into custody in Wise County on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Pampa police responded about 9:45 a.m. to the park in the 1600 block of East U.S. Highway 60, where they found a 48-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was flown to an Amarillo hospital in serious condition. Leith had left before officers arrived, prompting an initial search for a white SUV believed to be connected to the shooting. Police said additional details would be released Wednesday, and anyone with information can call the Pampa Police Department at 806-669-5700.
Potter County Commissioners to Discuss Proposed Budget
The Potter County Commissioners Court will hold a special meeting Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the Courts Building at 350 S.E. Sixth Ave., Suite 2141, to discuss the proposed 2026-27 budget. Commissioners are expected to set Monday, Aug. 24, at 9 a.m. as the date and time for a public hearing on the budget. The court will also consider publishing proposed increases in salaries, expenses and allowances for elected county and precinct officers and take other necessary budget action. Potter County's taxpayer impact statement estimates taxes on a median-valued homestead would increase from $914.22 in the current fiscal year to $937.35 under the proposed budget. That represents an estimated increase of $23.13, while taxes calculated under the no-new-revenue rate are estimated at $908.74.
Amarillo Parks Board to Consider Eastridge Park Master Plan
The Amarillo Parks and Recreation Board will meet Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 623 S. Johnson St. Board members will consider action on a proposed park master plan for the Eastridge neighborhood, including its vision, recommended improvements and other proposals. The board will also consider an application to rename East Park and make a recommendation to the City Council, which will make the final decision. Members are scheduled to discuss safety concerns and conditions at the Rick Klein Complex. The board will also review summer programs and events, including participation and outcomes. The meeting includes a public comment period, with speakers limited to three minutes each.
One Dead, Firefighter Injured in Borger House Fire
One person was found dead and a firefighter suffered minor injuries following a house fire late Monday night in Borger. The Borger Fire Department was dispatched about 11:50 p.m. to the 1200 block of University Place, where firefighters encountered heavy fire and smoke. Crews initially mounted an interior attack but switched to defensive operations outside as conditions worsened. One firefighter suffered minor burns and was evaluated by EMS at the scene. After extinguishing the fire, crews searched the home and found one person dead; the person's identity has not been released pending identification and notification of next of kin. The Borger Fire Marshal's Office and Texas State Fire Marshal's Office are investigating the cause and origin of the fire.
