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Missing 7-year-old with autism found dead in pond after search in Pearland neighborhood, police say

ABC13 Houston
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Missing 7-year-old with autism found dead in pond after search in Pearland neighborhood, police say

PEARLAND, Texas (KTRK) — Pearland police said their search for a missing 7-year-old girl with autism has come to an end after she was found dead in a pond in the local neighborhood on Wednesday.

According to the Pearland Police Department, Skylar Hopson, a 7-year-old with autism who has been described as being nonverbal, wandered away from home with her iPad in the 2000 block of Sunset Springs Drive at about 9:10 a.m. She was last seen wearing a tie-dye dress, according to officials.

Police said they used K9’s, drones, and the Houston Police Department’s helicopter in the area to search for Hopson.

An Amber Alert was issued in connection to this incident, with officials saying it was issued due to Hopson having autism and being nonverbal. Police said there was no indication or evidence that Hopson was abducted.

According to authorities, K9s were able to track Hopson’s scent to a nearby retention pond, which aligned with pings from her iPad. At about 2:45 p.m., Hopson was recovered from the pond with assistance from the Houston Dive Team, officials said. Hopson was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

Pearland PD thanked other law enforcement for assistance in the search, including TEXSAR and their K-9, as well as the local community.

This is a developing story. Eyewitness News is continuing to gather facts.

Watch live breaking news coverage from ABC13 on our 24/7 streaming news channel.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Man charged with murder in connection with case of woman who went missing in 2024, records show

ABC13 Houston
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Man charged with murder in connection with case of woman who went missing in 2024, records show

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Angela Diaz went missing in 2024. Now, nearly two years later, authorities have charged a man with murder in connection with her case, according to records.

Charging documents show 39-year-old Jason Scarbrough was charged with murder on Wednesday. Documents state that Scarbrough allegedly murdered Diaz and then tampered with her body by using a saw to get rid of her body.

According to the Houston Police Department, Diaz went missing in July 2024, but her body was found in March 2025 in Clear Lake. At the time, police said someone was passing by on Space Center Boulevard when they found her remains.

“We have no timespan of when they were dumped. It could’ve been within a month or two, depending on the weather, animal activity, or it could’ve been years. It’s going to take forensics to nail that down for us,” a detective said at the time.

Records also show Scarbrough was out of jail on bail in separate cases of aggravated assault and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

Investigators still haven’t shared how Diaz was killed or how they were able to identify the discovered remains as hers.

For news updates, follow Brianna Willis on Facebook, x and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Cooler conditions have arrived with temperatures dropping into the 40s Friday morning

ABC13 Houston
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Cooler conditions have arrived with temperatures dropping into the 40s Friday morning

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Grab the jacket! It’s much colder for Thursday with temperatures only climbing into the upper 60s. Winds will still be gusty through mid-morning before calming down later in the afternoon. And after a stormy Wednesday, no rain is expected Thursday.

And be ready for an even colder morning Friday! Temperatures overnight will fall into the low 40s across Southeast Texas with some areas north of I-10 waking up in the upper 30s Friday morning. Widespread frost or freeze conditions are not expected.

What does the weekend look like?

It’s not as rainy or stormy as last weekend! It’s going to be a beautiful weekend with mild mornings, warm afternoons and plenty of sunshine. We are monitoring our next cold front though that could arrive late Sunday evening and will cool us down again for Monday of next week. This front could also bring a few showers and storms to the region after sunset Sunday as it tracks from north to south towards the coast overnight.

Any storms expected with this next cold front?

Sunday night’s cold front could bring a few passing showers late Sunday and into Monday. But at this time we’re not expected widespread storms or severe weather like what we saw with last Wednesday’s front. This front will have another big cool down with it though, for another cooler couple of days early next week.

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the upper 40s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

Are we expecting any more frosty mornings this winter season?

Not at this time. While we can’t 100% rule out another run at frosty weather later in March or even April, odds favor those who want to start tending to their garden beds. We might make it into the 40s behind the cold front arriving during Spring Break, but that shouldn’t pose a threat to tropical plants.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Stay Safe This Spring: Community Tips for Houston’s Hispanic Neighborhoods

Que Onda Editorial
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Stay Safe This Spring: Community Tips for Houston’s Hispanic Neighborhoods

Stay Safe This Spring: Community Tips for Houston’s Hispanic Neighborhoods

Spring in Houston means vibrant festivals and busy streets in our Hispanic neighborhoods—but it also brings fresh safety challenges. You want to enjoy the Houston Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and East End street festivals without worry. That’s why this guide offers clear community safety tips Houston families and businesses can count on. Keep reading to get your family safety checklist, transit advice, and real-time alert sign-ups that keep you connected when it matters most. For more detailed safety resources, visit this link.

Community Safety Tips for Houston Spring Events

Welcome to our guide on keeping safe during Houston’s vibrant spring events. Together, we can ensure that everyone enjoys the festivities safely and joyfully.

Family Safety Checklist

Keeping your family safe is the first step to enjoying any event. Start by planning your day. Make sure everyone in your group knows where to meet if you get separated. Consider using the buddy system to keep everyone accounted for.

Always pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and a small first aid kit. It’s also wise to have a list of emergency contacts. Before you head out, check the weather and dress accordingly. You can find more detailed safety tips in this community safety guide.

Small Business Safety Tips

Small businesses are the heart of our community, and protecting them during busy events is essential. Start by securing your premises. Ensure that all security systems are functioning and that staff are trained on emergency procedures.

Consider having a plan for cash handling to minimize risks. Communicate with neighboring businesses to keep an eye out for each other. For more insights, check out this community conversation on safety.

Real-Time Neighborhood Alerts

Staying informed is crucial for safety. Sign up for local alerts to get updates on any potential issues during events. These alerts can provide information about weather changes or traffic disruptions.

You can join local social media groups or download apps that offer real-time community updates. Knowing what’s happening around you lets you respond swiftly to any situation.

Navigating Houston’s Spring Celebrations

With your safety fundamentals covered, let’s delve into navigating Houston’s bustling spring events. From transit tips to parking, here’s how you can move smoothly through the city festivities.

Public Transit Safety Houston

Public transport is a convenient way to get around during busy festivals. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings. Traveling with a group can add an extra layer of security.

Check transit schedules ahead of time to avoid long waits. If you’re new to public transit, familiarize yourself with the routes you’ll be taking. You can find more tips by visiting this link.

Parking and Traffic Safety Houston

If driving, choose well-lit parking areas and never leave valuables in plain sight. Houston’s spring events can lead to traffic congestion, so plan your route in advance.

Consider using apps to find parking or to get live traffic updates. Be patient and always drive cautiously, especially with more pedestrians around.

Emergency Contacts and Severe Weather Guidance

It’s always good to be prepared. Store emergency contacts in your phone and know where the nearest medical facilities are. In case of severe weather, have a plan for seeking shelter quickly.

Check weather updates regularly and listen to local news for any urgent announcements. This emergency resource page offers valuable guidance.

Engaging with the Community

Being part of the community during these events is rewarding. Here’s how to stay connected and informed throughout the celebrations.

Bilingual News and Resources

Stay updated with local happenings in both English and Spanish. Engaging with bilingual news outlets ensures you don’t miss important announcements.

Our partners at ABC13 and Telemundo provide comprehensive coverage. Keeping informed helps you enjoy the events while staying safe.

Neighborhood Watch Houston

Join or start a neighborhood watch to foster safety and unity. These groups are great for sharing information and looking out for one another.

Most people believe that safety is just about being cautious, but community involvement is equally crucial. The longer you wait to engage, the more you miss out on building a safer environment together.

Partnering with Local Media Outlets

Local media can be your ally in staying informed. They provide updates on events and any safety concerns. Consider reaching out to them if you have news or concerns to share.

Your voice matters in keeping our neighborhoods safe and vibrant. By working together, we can ensure a secure and enjoyable spring for everyone.

Houston Police to Give ICE 30 Minutes to Respond to Administrative Warrants

Indira Zaldivar
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Houston Police to Give ICE 30 Minutes to Respond to Administrative Warrants

Policy change follows arrests that violated department rules

The Houston Police Department announced a new policy Wednesday that will give U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) 30 minutes to respond when officers encounter someone with an administrative immigration warrant.

HPD Chief Noe Diaz said the change is meant to clarify procedures after two recent arrests in which officers violated department policy by detaining drivers and personally transporting them to ICE agents.

New requirements for officers

Under the updated guidelines, Houston patrol officers must:

  • Contact ICE and allow up to 30 minutes for a response if they encounter a person with an administrative warrant.
  • Call a supervising sergeant to the scene in those situations.
  • Avoid making arrests solely based on immigration violations.

Administrative warrants are civil immigration notices rather than criminal warrants, and law enforcement agencies often have different policies on how to handle them.

Mayor says arrests were a mistake

At a news conference announcing the change, Houston Mayor John Whitmire said the two incidents that prompted scrutiny were a mistake and confirmed they violated department policy.

City leaders raised concerns after reports revealed that officers had detained drivers and transported them directly to ICE agents. According to the mayor, the officers involved were relatively young and were not disciplined, though officials said the department would correct the policy confusion.

Growing scrutiny over immigration enforcement

The issue comes as immigration enforcement has expanded nationwide. Since the start of Donald Trump’s second term in January 2025, federal officials have added hundreds of thousands of noncriminal administrative immigration warrants to databases accessible to local law enforcement agencies.

In Houston and across Texas, departments have taken different approaches to how officers should respond when they encounter these warrants.

Several members of the Houston City Council have called for further discussion of the department’s immigration-related policies and may question police leadership at an upcoming meeting.

For the latest on immigration enforcement in Houston, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Your Spring 2026 Guide to Houston Cultural Events Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Que Onda Editorial
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Your Spring 2026 Guide to Houston Cultural Events Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Spring is bursting with color and rhythm in Houston this year, and your calendar needs to keep up. The Houston Hispanic heritage events 2026 lineup promises lively festivals, music, and family-friendly gatherings that bring the community together like never before. From Cinco de Mayo celebrations to Latin film showcases, this guide helps you plan your spring with events that honor culture and spark connection. Stay tuned for dates, locations, and tips to make the most of Houston’s vibrant spring scene. For more details, check out this event calendar.

Houston Hispanic Festivals 2026

Houston is gearing up for a series of vibrant festivals that celebrate Hispanic culture. These events are set to bring joy and cultural pride to the community. Join the festivities and experience the essence of Hispanic heritage firsthand.

Family Friendly Events Houston 2026

Looking for activities the whole family can enjoy? Houston has a lineup of events that cater to all ages. You can start with the Hispanic Heritage Celebration at the Children’s Museum. This event offers interactive exhibits and cultural performances. Don’t miss out on the activities designed to engage young minds with Hispanic culture.

For an outdoor experience, take your family to the Houston Zoo’s Hispanic Heritage Fiesta. Here, you’ll find educational booths and live music performances. It’s a fantastic way to learn about different cultures while enjoying the beautiful Houston spring weather.

Cinco de Mayo Houston 2026

Cinco de Mayo is not just a date on the calendar; it’s a vibrant celebration in Houston. Get ready to immerse yourself in parades, music, and traditional foods. Start off with the Cinco de Mayo Parade. This event fills the streets with colorful floats and dancers. It’s a visual spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Feeling hungry? Head over to downtown Houston where food vendors line the streets offering traditional Mexican dishes. Enjoy tacos, tamales, and other delicacies while soaking in live mariachi performances. This celebration is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant community spirit.

Arts and Culture in Spring

Spring in Houston means a rich tapestry of arts and culture, waiting to be explored. The city offers numerous events that showcase the depth of Hispanic artistic expression.

Houston Latin Music Events

Houston’s music scene comes alive with Latin rhythms this spring. The city hosts a variety of concerts that highlight the talents of Latin musicians. Attend the Latin Music Festival at Discovery Green and sway to the beats of salsa, bachata, and reggaeton. It’s an event that promises non-stop music and dance.

For a more intimate setting, check out local bars and cafes hosting Latin music nights. These venues feature local artists who bring their unique sounds to the stage. It’s a great way to support local talent while enjoying a night out.

Houston Museum Exhibits Spring 2026

Museums across Houston are celebrating Hispanic heritage with special exhibits. The Museum of Fine Arts will host an exhibit featuring works from renowned Hispanic artists. Discover paintings, sculptures, and installations that tell stories of cultural identity and resilience.

Another must-visit is the Houston Museum of Natural Science, where you’ll find an exhibit on the ancient civilizations of Latin America. This exhibit offers a deep dive into the history and contributions of Hispanic cultures. It’s both educational and awe-inspiring.

Neighborhood Celebrations and Markets

Houston’s neighborhoods are full of life during the spring. Explore local markets and community events that highlight Hispanic culture.

Houston Neighborhood Events

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own unique way of celebrating Hispanic heritage. In the East End, you’ll find block parties with live music and dance performances. These gatherings are a great way to meet locals and enjoy community vibes.

In the Heights, the Hispanic Heritage Street Festival offers artisanal crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local vendors and experience the warmth of the community.

Houston Markets and Food Festivals

Food is at the heart of every celebration, and Houston’s markets are no exception. Visit the Hispanic Farmers Market for fresh produce and traditional Hispanic foods. Here, you can buy ingredients to try new recipes at home.

Don’t miss the Houston Food Festival that features a section dedicated to Hispanic cuisine. Sample dishes from different countries and learn about their culinary history. It’s a delicious way to spend a day and broaden your taste horizons.

Plan your spring with these exciting events and celebrate the rich Hispanic heritage in Houston. Whether you’re attending festivals, concerts, or markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more information on upcoming events, explore the Houston cultural calendar.

Inflation Holds Steady in February as Oil Prices Surge

Indira Zaldivar
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Inflation Holds Steady in February as Oil Prices Surge

Inflation in the United States remained steady in February, but rising oil prices linked to the escalating conflict involving Iran are raising concerns that costs could climb in the coming months.

According to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, consumer prices rose 2.4% in February compared to a year earlier, the same rate recorded in January. While inflation has cooled from previous highs, it still remains slightly above the 2% target set by the Federal Reserve.

Gas Prices Already Rising

Fuel costs began increasing even before the conflict intensified. The report showed gasoline prices rose more than 3% in February compared to the previous month.

Since late February, oil prices have surged sharply. U.S. crude oil climbed to about $86 per barrel, increasing more than 30% in just one month as global energy markets reacted to the conflict.

The national average price for gasoline has also jumped, reaching $3.53 per gallon, up from $2.92 a month earlier, according to AAA.

Economists warn that higher fuel prices could eventually push up costs across the economy, especially for goods transported by diesel-powered trucks and planes.

Food Costs Remain Elevated

Food prices also remain a concern for consumers. In February, food costs rose 3.1% compared to a year earlier, continuing to outpace the overall inflation rate.

Higher grocery prices have remained one of the most persistent drivers of household expenses over the past year.

Slowing Job Growth Adds Economic Pressure

Economic data released last week showed the U.S. labor market may be losing momentum. The economy lost 92,000 jobs in February, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.4%, according to government figures.

Although unemployment remains historically low, slower hiring combined with stubborn inflation has raised concerns about possible stagflation, a period of slow growth paired with rising prices.

Federal Reserve Faces Tough Choices

The evolving economic picture could complicate decisions for the Federal Reserve, which is tasked with balancing price stability and employment growth.

The central bank held interest rates steady during its last meeting in January after cutting rates three times previously. Policymakers are expected to make their next interest-rate decision on March 18, as officials weigh the impact of rising energy costs and slowing economic growth.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Deadly Storm System Sweeps Across US, Leaving at Least 2 Dead

Indira Zaldivar
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Deadly Storm System Sweeps Across US, Leaving at Least 2 Dead

A powerful storm system moved across large portions of the United States overnight, killing at least two people and injuring several others as severe weather continues Wednesday.

Officials with the Lake Township Fire Department in Indiana confirmed the deaths after destructive storms caused widespread damage, including collapsed homes and residents trapped inside buildings.

Millions Under Severe Weather Threat

More than 65 million Americans remain at risk as the storm system moves east from Houston to Philadelphia. Forecasters warn the system could bring strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail throughout the day.

The National Weather Service has already issued more than 45 tornado warnings across seven states, while at least 10 tornadoes were reported from Texas to Indiana overnight.

Destructive Winds and Giant Hail

The storms produced wind gusts between 60 and 80 mph, damaging homes, buildings, and infrastructure across multiple states.

Some of the most significant damage was reported in Kankakee County, Illinois, and Starke County, Indiana. Authorities in Kankakee County said a “large and extremely dangerous tornado” caused extensive destruction in the village of Aroma Park.

Hailstones measuring up to 5.2 inches in diameter—larger than grapefruit—were reported in parts of Illinois.

Storm Line Stretching Across the Country

By Wednesday morning, the severe weather had formed a massive 1,600-mile storm line stretching from Canada to Mexico, affecting areas from New York to Texas.

Cities including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Nashville, Memphis, Birmingham, Shreveport, and New Orleans are all under a Level 2 “slight risk” for severe weather.

Flash Flooding and More Storms Expected

Heavy rainfall may trigger flash flooding, particularly across East Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and southern Arkansas, where repeated thunderstorms could dump several inches of rain in just a few hours.

Forecasters say the storm system should move offshore by Thursday morning, followed by a cold front that could bring rapid temperature drops and even a chance of snow in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, including Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia.

For more on the fatal weather pattern, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Most Texas voucher applicants may already be outside public school system, data reveals

ABC13 Houston
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Most Texas voucher applicants may already be outside public school system, data reveals

By Saral-Al-Shaikh, ABC13 Houston

Applications continue to pour in for Texas’s new school voucher program.

More than 160,000 families have already applied for the education savings accounts, according to the Texas Comptroller’s Office.

The program would give families about $10,500 a year for private school tuition, or roughly $2,000 to help cover homeschooling expenses.

But early data raises new questions about who’s signing up.

Numbers, obtained by the Texas Center for Voucher Transparency, suggested many applicants may already be outside the public school system.

The data showed that only about 36,000 applicants reported attending a public school last year, and 117,000 applicants, which is about 76%, said they did not.

University of Houston education professor Duncan Klussmann said critics warned this could happen during the program’s first round of applications.

“I think many people who said, ‘Hey, is this really going to go to the kids you intended to help?'” Klussmann said. “We need to see if that’s going to be answered at the end of the day, once individuals are accepted into the program.”

The Comptroller’s office told ABC13 many of those applicants applied for Pre-K, Kindergarten, or first grade, so they may not have been enrolled in any school last year.

Ultimately, the Comptroller’s office said the program will prioritize students with disabilities and lower-income families first, which is defined as making less than $165,000 a year for a family of four.

But the demand for the program is already higher than the number of available spots. Only about 90,000 to 100,000 students are expected to receive funding.

In a news release, Comptroller Kelly Hancock said, “We are expecting to sell out in year one.” He added that his office will help build a strong foundation for school choice in Texas.

“Once all the applications are in, once the selection is done and we do an analysis of it, we’ll know for sure what percent of the funds are going to the students that it was intended to help and what percent of the funding is going to go to individuals already in private schools,” Klussmann said.

Applications are open until March 17. The Comptroller’s office said it will report the waitlist to the Texas Legislature to determine funding for future years.

For more news updates, follow Sarah Al-Shaikh on Facebook and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Fresh paint, new trees and increased cleaning: How TxDOT is preparing Houston for the World Cup

ABC13 Houston
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Fresh paint, new trees and increased cleaning: How TxDOT is preparing Houston for the World Cup

By Elissa Rivas, ABC13 Houston.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Along Houston’s major corridors, there are signs, some of them subtle, that soccer is about to take over the Bayou City. The World Cup is less than 100 days away, but TxDOT has been preparing for it for nearly two years.

Ethan Beeson, the Landscape Architect for TxDOT’s Houston District, says there’s been a flurry of painting and planting along local roads.

“We see the transportation corridors as something that everybody is going to experience; the visitors that are coming to Houston for the first time, but also it’s for the people who live here,” Beeson said.

You may have already noticed the red, round bridge ornaments along the Southwest Freeway, now painted to look like soccer balls. Beeson said they were already due for painting, “but then, since the World Cup was coming up, we thought, why don’t we paint them as soccer balls?”

Beeson said TxDOT leaders want to improve maintenance schedules and are using funds already set aside for cleaning and painting roads to help Houston look its best for visitors.

“We used to mow four times a year. Last spring, we changed it to eight times a year in Harris County for the most dense urban part. We’ve increased our litter pickup cycles,” Beeson said.

TxDOT plans to continue these improvements after the World Cup, including washing and painting concrete barriers, retaining walls, and sound walls.

Right now, they’re focusing on corridors leading to airports and event sites: Interstate 45 inside Beltway 8, the 610 Loop and Interstate 10 inside the Loop, and US 59 from FM 1960 to the South Beltway.

TxDOT isn’t just painting-they’re also planting trees. They plant about 100,000 trees a year across the six-county district, and recently they’ve focused on areas where World Cup visitors will notice them.

Since last October, more than 5,000 trees have been planted along Houston’s major corridors: the Eastex Freeway, State Highway 288, the Gulf Freeway, and the South and West Loops.

Although the World Cup will end by summer, Beeson hopes Houstonians will enjoy these improvements for many years to come.

“The trees, yes, are being planted; they’re going in the ground right now, but they’re going to be here for a long time, long after, for years after the World Cup is done. So it’s something that everyone’s going to benefit from.”

For news updates, follow Elissa Rivas on Facebook, X and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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