From a water safety warning at Lake Meredith to an unusual theft investigation in Randall County, several stories are making headlines across the Texas Panhandle. Amarillo-area residents can also look forward to the return of a popular hot-air balloon festival, while Pampa officials prepare to tackle city business and infrastructure improvements. Here's a look at six local stories worth following.
Lake Meredith Issues Water Safety Notice for Visitors
Visitors to Lake Meredith National Recreation Area are being advised not to drink water from certain faucets or drinking fountains until further notice. Officials issued a water safety notice affecting drinking water in the recreation area but did not specify when the advisory might be lifted. Visitors are encouraged to use bottled water for drinking, cooking and brushing their teeth. Officials apologized for the inconvenience and said the precautions are intended to protect public safety. The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
Man Arrested After Stolen Randall County Jail Uniform Appears on Facebook
A man is back behind bars after investigators discovered a stolen Randall County Jail uniform listed for sale on Facebook. The Randall County Sheriff's Office began investigating Oct. 5 after learning that the county-issued uniform had been taken and advertised online. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Vance Hanson leaving the jail Oct. 1 without returning his inmate uniform following his release. Investigators obtained an arrest warrant, and deputies arrested Hanson at his residence Oct. 7. He was booked into the Randall County Jail on a theft charge.
Suspect Claims Fatal Shooting of Colorado Woman Was Accidental
A suspect accused of shooting a Colorado woman and burying her body behind an Amarillo garage reportedly admitted to the shooting but claimed it was accidental. According to court documents obtained by ABC 7 News, Torres allegedly shot Smith in the head Sept. 27 while traveling in a vehicle with the victim and a confidential informant. Investigators say the informant later witnessed Torres burying Smith's body behind a home under construction. Amarillo police discovered the remains Oct. 1 behind a detached garage in the 3100 block of Orange Street, and an autopsy confirmed a gunshot wound to the head. Torres was arrested following a brief chase and allegedly admitted to shooting Smith and burying her body. He initially faced an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge after allegedly threatening the informant and her family to prevent the shooting from being reported.
Pirates of the Canyon Hot-Air Balloon Festival Returns Oct. 23-25
Colorful hot-air balloons will once again take to the skies as Pirates of the Canyon returns to the Amarillo area Oct. 23-25. The three-day festival will feature activities at Palo Duro Canyon State Park and John Stiff Memorial Park in Amarillo. Hot-air balloon launches will highlight the celebration, although liftoffs will depend on weather conditions. The event is organized through a partnership involving Amarillo Parks and Recreation, Pirates of the Canyon and Palo Duro Canyon State Park. City recreation officials say the festival offers a memorable experience for families and visitors of all ages.
Pampa City Commission to Consider Kratom Ban, Utility Fees and Service Agreements
The Pampa City Commission will meet Monday at 4 p.m. in commission chambers at 200 West Foster to consider several city proposals. Agenda items include changes to water service and code enforcement fees, along with a proposed prohibition on kratom sales within city limits. Commissioners will also consider denying Southwestern Public Service Company's requested transmission tariff change and approving an agreement with the Panhandle Regional Planning Commission for grant administration. Another proposal involves a two-year animal services agreement with Clarendon, Groom, Howardwick, Lefors, McLean, Memphis, Miami and Skellytown. The commission will also consider bids from Cecilia Solis, Hugo Lopenz and Robert Blaylock for delinquent tax properties at various locations. Residents will have an opportunity to address commissioners during the public comment portion of the meeting.
Pampa Begins Pump Station Rehabilitation With No Expected Water Interruptions
The City of Pampa is beginning a rehabilitation project at Pump Station No. 2 in Hobart Street Park, with work scheduled to start Thursday. The facility is expected to remain offline for approximately four to six weeks while crews complete improvements. Despite the temporary shutdown, city officials say residents should not experience interruptions to their water service. The project includes sandblasting and painting the station to meet Texas Commission on Environmental Quality standards. Crews will also install a protective curtain around the work area to contain construction materials and reduce impacts on the surrounding park.
