From a fatal motorcycle crash in Amarillo to concerns surrounding a massive data center development near Turkey, several stories are drawing attention across the Texas Panhandle. Here’s a look at some of the latest news from around the region.
Amarillo Man Dies in Motorcycle-Semi Crash
A 23-year-old Amarillo man died following a motorcycle crash Wednesday morning at Washington Street and Loop 335, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. DPS identified the rider as Kaden Mathias Arenas, who was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and later pronounced dead.
A preliminary investigation found Arenas was traveling north on Washington toward Loop 335, with witnesses reporting the motorcycle was moving at a high rate of speed. A semi was traveling south on Washington and turned left toward Loop 335 when the vehicles collided. The crash remains under investigation.
Residents Raise Concerns Over $10 Billion Hall County Data Center
Water use and housing costs are among the concerns being raised over a planned $10 billion data center campus near Turkey being developed by QTS Data Centers and Lancium. QTS Vice President Andy Jagor said most construction workers will be housed at the site, limiting pressure on the local housing market.
The company also says closed-loop cooling systems will keep water consumption relatively low once the campus is operating, with each building expected to use about 50,000 gallons per month. QTS says the project will generate substantial tax revenue while the developers negotiate agreements with Hall County, the local school system and the city of Turkey to support education, workforce development and infrastructure. QTS will hold a public event Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Valley High School for residents with questions or concerns.
Claude Braces for Heavier Traffic as School Returns
Traffic congestion in Claude is expected to worsen when Claude ISD students return to school Aug. 20. Armstrong County Sheriff Melissa Anderson said crashes have increased from two or three per month to as many as two or three per day, with the heaviest traffic occurring from 3 to 6 a.m. and again from 3 to 6 p.m.
Claude ISD Superintendent Brent Kirkland encouraged parents, particularly those with first-time drivers, to practice the trip to school and prepare alternate routes. Kirkland also recommended avoiding Highway 207 in the afternoon when possible because traffic can back up during school dismissal. Anderson urged parents to closely monitor young drivers during the first days of school and reminded motorists to avoid phones and other distractions behind the wheel.
Amarillo Zoo’s Sheba Recovering After Tail Surgery
Sheba, a nearly 21-year-old African lion at the Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, is recovering after veterinarians removed a recurring mass from her tail and sent it for testing. Zoo staff sedated Sheba Sunday after skin lesions continued to return despite cultures, medications and other less-invasive treatments.
Dr. Cabello removed the mass, treated other areas believed to be hot spots and administered pain medication and 3 liters of fluids, an important measure because Sheba has kidney disease. Staff also performed a comprehensive examination and collected blood for testing, finding no other apparent problems. By Monday, Sheba was moving around more and had resumed carrying and arranging a favorite blanket she uses while resting. Test results from the mass are pending and will help guide treatment focused on her comfort and quality of life.
