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Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, Agents Expected to Leave Minneapolis

Indira Zaldivar
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Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, Agents Expected to Leave Minneapolis

Senior Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino and several federal agents are expected to depart the Minneapolis area following mounting backlash over the federal response to the fatal shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.

Sources told CBS News that Bovino has been relieved of his command in Minneapolis and is expected to return to California’s El Centro sector, where he previously served as chief agent. The move effectively represents a demotion after days of controversy surrounding his public statements about the shooting.

Backlash After Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti

The development follows intense criticism of federal officials’ response to Pretti’s death. Bovino drew widespread condemnation after suggesting—without evidence—that Pretti intended to “massacre” federal agents. Witness accounts and video footage from the scene later contradicted those claims.

News of Bovino’s impending departure came shortly after President Donald Trump announced that White House border czar Tom Homan would travel to Minnesota. Trump also spoke with Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who later said the president acknowledged “the present situation cannot continue.”

A Central Figure in Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

In recent months, Bovino has emerged as one of the most visible figures in the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement strategy. Known for his hardline approach, Bovino frequently appeared in tactical gear alongside Border Patrol agents during enforcement operations in major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Charlotte, and New Orleans.

Those deployments reflected a shift in federal tactics, with Border Patrol agents conducting immigration arrests far from the U.S.-Mexico border. During a Chicago operation known as “Midway Blitz,” Border Patrol agents reportedly made more arrests than Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which traditionally handles interior enforcement.

Legal Challenges and Internal Tensions

Bovino’s tenure in Chicago ended in November after a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction against Border Patrol agents over their use of force, calling the conduct “shocking to the conscience.” Agents were seen deploying tear gas in residential neighborhoods, near schools, and against civilians.

U.S. District Judge Sarah Ellis noted that Bovino had personally participated in tear gas deployments and said he admitted to lying about the circumstances surrounding one incident. At one point, Ellis ordered Bovino to report to court nightly to brief her on agents’ actions.

The aggressive tactics have also fueled tensions within the Department of Homeland Security. Some ICE officials have privately expressed concern that Border Patrol operations have become overly controversial, arguing enforcement efforts should prioritize individuals with criminal records rather than highly visible sweeps in public areas.

White House Defends Bovino

Despite the criticism, Bovino has continued to defend Border Patrol tactics, calling them necessary to protect federal agents.

“The use of force that I’ve seen has been exemplary — the least amount of force necessary to accomplish the mission,” Bovino told CBS News last fall.

The White House has also publicly backed him. Earlier this week, press secretary Karoline Leavitt described Bovino as “a great professional” and said he would continue to hold a leadership role within Customs and Border Protection.

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

Harris County Urges Residents to Prepare for Another Freezing Night

Edward Saenz
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Harris County Urges Residents to Prepare for Another Freezing Night

Harris County officials are urging residents to remain cautious as freezing temperatures are expected to continue overnight, with an Extreme Cold Warning in effect through Tuesday morning.

The Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) said hazardous conditions will persist this evening and overnight, warning that any remaining wet surfaces could refreeze and create dangerous travel conditions. Residents are encouraged to stay off roadways if possible.

Warming Centers and Shelters Remain Available

Multiple cities and partner organizations across Harris County have opened warming centers and overnight shelters to assist residents during the cold snap. Locations are available through the Harris County Warming Centers and Overnight Shelters map at ReadyHarris.org.

Transportation assistance is available by calling 3-1-1. All six American Red Cross shelters are scheduled to close at noon on Tuesday, January 27, with transportation to those shelters ending at 5 a.m.

Protect People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants

Officials continue to stress the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, pets, plumbing, and plants as temperatures remain below freezing. Residents are advised to watch closely for signs of frozen or burst pipes, including low water pressure, frost buildup, damp walls or ceilings, and unusual odors from faucets or drains.

If a pipe bursts, residents should shut off their main water line immediately and contact a plumber or other professional if they are unable to safely address the issue themselves.

Emergency and Travel Safety Guidance

Residents are reminded to use 9-1-1 only for life-threatening emergencies, as first responders are experiencing higher-than-normal call volumes and weather-impacted road conditions, which may result in longer response times.

Drivers are encouraged to monitor road conditions through Houston TranStar and DriveTexas before traveling.

Heater and Generator Safety Reminders

HCOHSEM also emphasized heater and generator safety. Portable space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable, plugged directly into wall outlets, and turned off when unattended or while sleeping. Generators should only be used outdoors and positioned at least 15 to 20 feet away from doors and windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Residents can receive winter weather updates by texting FREEZE to 888-777 and are encouraged to stay informed by following HCOHSEM updates and alerts through ReadyHarris.org.

Harris County to Resume Normal Operations Tuesday Following Winter Weather

Indira Zaldivar
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Harris County to Resume Normal Operations Tuesday Following Winter Weather

Harris County officials announced that all county operations will return to normal on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as conditions improve after recent severe winter weather.

All county buildings are expected to reopen to the public, and departments will resume regular business hours after temporary service adjustments were put in place to ensure public and employee safety.

County Officials Thank Residents and Employees

Jesse Dickerman, Interim County Administrator for the Harris County Office of County Administration, expressed gratitude to both residents and county employees for their cooperation during the weather-related disruptions.

“Our first responders, essential personnel, and Commissioners Court offices worked around the clock to support the community,” Dickerman said. “County employees across departments showed flexibility and professionalism to maintain continuity of services during challenging conditions.”

Some Facilities May Reopen Gradually

While most services will return to normal schedules, some county parks and community centers may continue operating on modified hours as reopening efforts are completed. Residents are encouraged to check individual department, park, and precinct websites for the latest updates before visiting.

Ongoing Safety and Preparedness Efforts

County leadership emphasized that safety remains a top priority as operations resume. Departments will continue coordinating to ensure services are delivered efficiently and safely.

For updated information on county services, emergency preparedness, and community resources, residents can visit ReadyHarris.org.

For more county and city alerts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Lifetime Alcohol Use Linked to Higher Colorectal Cancer Risk, Study Finds

Que Onda Editorial
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Lifetime Alcohol Use Linked to Higher Colorectal Cancer Risk, Study Finds

A new study published in the journal Cancer has found that long-term alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of colorectal cancer, with consistent heavy drinking posing a much greater danger than previously understood.

Heavy Drinking Shows Strongest Risk

Researchers followed more than 88,000 adults with no prior cancer history for nearly a decade. Participants tracked their alcohol use from early adulthood, allowing scientists to analyze long-term patterns rather than short-term habits.

Those who drank heavily throughout their lives had up to a 91% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer compared with people who drank very little. Even people who averaged more than 14 drinks per week faced a 25% higher risk, with rectal cancer risk nearly doubling in that group.

Why Long-Term Exposure Matters

Doctors say prolonged alcohol exposure damages the colon and rectum over time, interfering with the body’s ability to repair tissue — a key pathway to cancer development.

“The longer someone drinks, the longer their colon and rectum are exposed to damage and impaired repair,” said Dr. Lynn M. O’Connor, a colon and rectal surgery specialist in New York.

Rectal Cancer Raises Special Concern

The study found particularly strong links between alcohol and rectal cancer, a form of the disease that is often harder to treat and more complex clinically.

With colorectal cancers already rising in younger adults, physicians warn that these findings are especially concerning as drinking patterns increase among younger populations.

Quitting Alcohol May Lower Risk

Researchers also found encouraging news: people who stopped drinking showed lower odds of developing precancerous polyps compared to light drinkers, suggesting the body can recover when risk factors are reduced.

“These are modifiable risks,” said Dr. Jeffrey Farma of Fox Chase Cancer Center. “The choices people make over time matter, and the body can respond when those risks are reduced.”

Screening Remains Critical

Health experts emphasize that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when caught early, yet fewer than 70% of eligible adults get screened.

U.S. guidelines recommend screening starting at age 45, using options such as stool tests, CT scans, or colonoscopies. Doctors say people with long-term heavy alcohol use may need earlier or more frequent screening, especially if symptoms like bleeding or persistent bowel changes appear.

“Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers we can actually prevent or catch early,” said Dr. Fola May of UCLA. “But only if people get screened.”

For more health guidelines and recommendations, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Minute-by-Minute Timeline of the Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti

Indira Zaldivar
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Minute-by-Minute Timeline of the Fatal Shooting of Alex Pretti

ABC News has compiled a detailed timeline of the events leading up to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, based on five verified witness videos recorded in downtown Minneapolis on Saturday morning.

Videos Raise Questions About Official Account

Federal officials initially claimed Pretti approached Border Patrol officers armed and intent on harming law enforcement. However, video evidence reviewed by ABC News appears to contradict that narrative, showing Pretti recording officers with his phone moments before the confrontation escalated.

Former acting DHS undersecretary and ABC News contributor John Cohen said the footage does not support claims that Pretti posed an immediate threat prior to the use of force.

Initial Encounter Begins With Recording

At 8:58:11 a.m., more than three minutes before any shots were fired, Pretti is seen holding up his phone toward a federal officer on Nicollet Avenue, apparently recording an immigration detention nearby. A second officer carrying pepper spray approaches him seconds later.

Over the next minute, Pretti continues filming as officers detain another individual. One officer appears to push Pretti toward the sidewalk as tensions rise.

Escalation and Use of Pepper Spray

By 9:00 a.m., multiple civilians are involved, and officers are seen shouting commands. At 9:00:50 a.m., an officer deploys pepper spray on Pretti. Video shows Pretti raising a hand, which Cohen says appears to be an attempt to signal he was not a threat.

Moments later, Pretti stumbles and appears to grab another person to steady himself after being sprayed. An officer then pulls him into the street by the hood of his coat.

Struggle in the Street

At 9:01:02 a.m., at least three officers are seen holding Pretti down while others surround him. Witnesses can be heard shouting accusations of police brutality, with one woman screaming that officers were kicking Pretti in the face.

An officer is captured on video repeatedly striking Pretti as he lies pinned on the ground.

Gun Removed and Shots Fired

At 9:01:12 a.m., one officer draws a handgun. Seconds later, another officer appears to remove a firearm from Pretti’s waist — a weapon federal officials say belonged to Pretti.

Despite this, the first shot is fired at 9:01:14 a.m. Within one second, three more shots follow. Pretti appears to go limp. Six additional shots are fired within the next three seconds as officers step back from his body.

Aftermath and Forensic Findings

Nearly 30 seconds after the first shot, an officer approaches Pretti. According to a sworn affidavit from a doctor at the scene, Pretti sustained at least three gunshot wounds to his back, one to his upper chest, and a possible wound to his neck.

More than a minute later, an officer is heard repeatedly saying, “I got the gun,” as he walks toward other agents.

A forensic audio analysis conducted by Montana State University professor Robert Maher concluded that 10 shots were fired in less than five seconds.

Ongoing Scrutiny

The videos and timeline have intensified public scrutiny of the shooting and federal officials’ statements, as protests and calls for accountability continue across Minneapolis.

For more on Trump’s immigration enforcement, which has claimed several lives in violent operations and face public scrutiny, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

NBA Crowd Reacts After Tribute to Minneapolis Shooting Victim Alex Pretti

Indira Zaldivar
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NBA Crowd Reacts After Tribute to Minneapolis Shooting Victim Alex Pretti

A tribute to Alex Pretti at Target Center sparked an emotional and controversial response from Minnesota Timberwolves fans, underscoring growing anger over recent federal enforcement actions in Minneapolis.

Moment of Silence Turns Into Protest

Ahead of Sunday’s game in Minneapolis, the Timberwolves honored Pretti with a moment of silence. Immediately afterward, the crowd erupted into loud, profane chants directed at ICE, reflecting deep frustration among fans over the federal presence in the city.

Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was shot and killed Saturday morning by a Border Patrol officer. Homeland Security later claimed he posed a threat, though video circulating online shows Pretti on the ground, restrained by multiple people, in footage that has fueled public outrage.

Alex Pretti's death has led to further protests across Minneapolis

Federal Operation Under Scrutiny

Pretti’s death occurred amid ICE’s Operation Metro Surge, which began in December. Within a month, three people were shot by federal agents in Minneapolis, two of whom died. Local advocates have also reported sweeping arrests, regardless of immigration status, intensifying protests and community tensions.

A newly surfaced angle of Pretti’s shooting has further escalated criticism, revealing what witnesses describe as disturbing actions by a federal agent moments after the incident.

NBA Response and Game Postponement

In the wake of the shooting, the NBA postponed a scheduled matchup between the Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors. Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch delivered an emotional statement before the game, calling Pretti’s death “unconscionable” and saying playing basketball “didn’t feel like the right thing to do.”

“For the second time in less than three weeks, we’ve lost another beloved member of our community,” Finch said, adding that the organization stands with Minneapolis during a period of grief.

Voices From Around the League

While many NBA figures have remained quiet, Charles Barkley and Isaiah Thomas publicly criticized ICE’s actions. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, known for speaking out on social justice issues, supported the decision to postpone the game and expressed sorrow for the city.

“There’s a pall over Minneapolis,” Kerr said. “When the unrest settles, those families won’t be getting their loved ones back. That’s devastating.”

Ongoing Protests and Community Impact

Pretti’s death has prompted renewed protests across Minneapolis, with residents demanding accountability and transparency from federal authorities. As demonstrations continue, the reaction inside Target Center highlighted how deeply the incident has resonated—not just in the community, but across the sports world.

For more on Trump’s immigration crackdown which has claimed several lives now, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Woman in her 70s shot, killed in shootout with home invasion suspects, HPD says

ABC13 Houston
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Woman in her 70s shot, killed in shootout with home invasion suspects, HPD says

By Courtney Carpenter, ABC13 Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Houston police say a woman in her 70s was killed during a shootout with home invasion suspects early Monday morning.

The Houston Police Department says the shooting happened at a home on Lockwood near Cavalcade. HPD says they were called to the home around 1:50 a.m.

According to HPD, two masked suspects, one man and one woman, broke into the home.

Police say the homeowner, a woman in her late 70s, and the two suspects got into a gunfight.

HPD says both of the suspects were shot, and the older woman was killed.

So far, authorities have not revealed a motive or what the suspects were going after.

“The homeowner was an elderly, late 70s female. She exchanged gunfire with the suspects. She struck both suspects. They were transported to a local area hospital, where one is in critical condition. The other is stable,” HPD Lt. JP Horelica said.

HPD says other people were at the house when the shooting happened, but so far, they believe the shots fired back and forth were just between the suspects and the homeowner.

For more news updates, follow Courtney Carpenter on Facebook, X and Instagram.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

ABC13 Weather Alert: Hard freeze, dangerously cold conditions Monday for Houston

ABC13 Houston
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ABC13 Weather Alert: Hard freeze, dangerously cold conditions Monday for Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — We’re done with the wintry precipitation but not the winter weather. Dangerously cold conditions will lead to a hard freeze Monday morning.

An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for all of Southeast Texas until noon Tuesday. Temperatures will fall well below freezing by sunrise on Monday. The daily record low temperature for January 26th is 23 degrees, which will be challenged Monday morning with a forecast low of 21 degrees for Houston. Factor in the gusty northerly breeze and we’ll have wind chill values in the single digits.

Conditions this cold can pose a risk to your health and lead to frostbite or hypothermia if proper precautions aren’t taken. Thankfully will see more sunshine on Monday helping us warm into the mid-upper 30s. But that’s still pretty cold for Southeast Texas standards, especially seeing that the normal high temperatures for late January is in the mid 60s.

Is this is a dangerous, pipe-bursting type of cold?

Yes. We expect temperatures to drop into the teens and low 20s on Sunday night and Monday morning everywhere except around Galveston Island. That’s when you’ll need to make sure your interior pipes are adequately insulated and protected from the cold. The wind will still be blowing, so wind chill factors will drop into the single digits and teens Monday morning, and some places northwest of Houston could have wind chills below zero. The National Weather Service has placed all of Southeast Texas under an Extreme Cold Warning during this timeframe. It’s important that all people, pets, and livestock are protected from the cold to avoid hypothermia.

What about any ice?

For areas that picked up ice accumulations from freezing rain and sleet Saturday night, those icy surfaces could last into Monday morning. This will be mainly north and west of Harris County. Additionally, if trees and powerline near you still have ice on them, the combination of the breeze tonight and duration for having this kind of weight on the liens could lead to localized power outages Sunday night.

When will we be done with the freezing weather?

Temperatures should climb above freezing on Monday afternoon, but we expect another hard freeze on Monday night and Tuesday morning. A light freeze is possible Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, especially north of Houston. Then we should be done with this round of arctic air.

I heard another arctic front is coming this weekend. Is that true?

We do predict another round of arctic air will arrive Friday. Our focus right now is on helping you get through our current winter storm, then we’ll spend more time nailing down the details of the next cold, wintry blast.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
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This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

GRAMMY-Nominated Folklorist Juan Díes Brings Corridos, Stories, and Songwriting to Houston

Indira Zaldivar
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GRAMMY-Nominated Folklorist Juan Díes Brings Corridos, Stories, and Songwriting to Houston

Houston audiences will have a rare opportunity to experience the power of the Mexican corrido tradition when GRAMMY- and Latin GRAMMY-nominated artist Juan Díes presents two free events at MECA Downtown at the end of January.

On Thursday, Jan. 30 at 7 p.m., Díes will lead Stories and Corridos, an evening of music and storytelling performed in both Spanish and English. The program will feature classic corridos alongside newly composed songs that recount real-life Mexican and American tragic heroes. Known for blending scholarship with performance, Díes draws on more than 35 years of experience as a folklorist, ethnomusicologist, performer, and educator to bring these historical ballads to life.

Díes is a co-founder of the Chicago-based Sones de México Ensemble, which has earned both GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominations for its dedication to preserving and innovating traditional Mexican music. The evening is supported in part by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and MECA-Houston.

The experience continues on Friday, Jan. 31 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an intensive, hands-on Mexican Tragic Ballad Songwriting Workshop. During the five-hour session, participants will explore the 180-year-old corrido tradition, learning its history, structure, and poetic rules. By the end of the workshop, the group will collaboratively write an original song following the traditional tragic corrido form.

Both events take place at MECA DOW, 1900 Kane St., Houston, TX 77007, and are free to attend. Registration is required for the workshop.

Harris County to Close Public-Facing Services Monday Due to Winter Weather

Edward Saenz
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Harris County to Close Public-Facing Services Monday Due to Winter Weather

Harris County officials announced that all public-facing county services will be closed Monday, January 26, 2026, due to anticipated impacts from severe winter weather. The closure is intended to protect the safety of residents and county employees.

County Buildings and Services

While county facilities will continue operating for internal functions, buildings will not be open to the public and in-person services will be unavailable throughout the day. County leadership says it is closely monitoring weather conditions in coordination with the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Libraries, Courts, and Jury Duty

All Harris County Public Library locations will be closed Monday. Court operations will also be affected, with Harris County Jury Service canceled for the day, including proceedings at the Jury Assembly Building on Congress Street.

Residents summoned for jury duty are not required to appear on January 26. Empaneled jurors should contact their assigned court directly for guidance. Courts, including district, justice, juvenile, criminal, and probate courts, as well as the Juvenile Justice Center, will be closed.

Warming Centers and Resources

Information on warming centers, overnight shelters, and transportation assistance is being updated as conditions change. Residents can find the latest updates at ReadyHarris.org. Transportation assistance may be available by calling 311, though services may vary based on weather conditions.

Staying Informed

County officials urge residents to remain weather-aware and follow local advisories. Updates on county operations and safety preparedness are available through official Harris County communication channels and at ReadyHarris.org. Residents can also text FREEZE to 888777 to receive winter weather alerts.

For more important weather information and updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

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