69.4 F
Houston
Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Home Blog Page 4

Harris County judge issues gag order in Lee Gilley murder case, according to court documents

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Harris County judge issues gag order in Lee Gilley murder case, according to court documents

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — According to court records, a Harris County judge has issued a gag order in the murder case of Lee Gilley, a Houston man accused of strangling his pregnant wife to death in 2024.

Gilley was set to go on trial at a Harris County courthouse for the 2024 death of his wife, Christa Gilley, when he fled to Italy after removing his ankle monitor on May 1, according to authorities.

RELATED: Houston man fled US, tried using fake ID to enter Italy before murder trial, documents allege

Court documents obtained by ABC13 show that Harris County Judge Peyton Peebles issued the gag order on Friday. The order limits what attorneys and others involved in the case can say to the press and to the public.

This order comes after Gilley’s attorney, Dick DeGuerin, told ABC13 on Thursday that his client’s fleeing to Italy could jeopardize his defense.

“When you flee, it can be taken as consciousness of guilt,” DeGuerin said. “I’m concerned about that.”

Court records show that Gilley went through Canada before flying to Milan, Italy. Investigators said he used fake Belgian ID documents with the name “Lejeune Jean Luc Olivier.”

On Wednesday, investigators said they towed Gilley’s vehicle from his family’s home as they kept looking into how he may have left the United States before his trial.

According to his defense team, Gilley has hired an attorney in Italy and is seeking political asylum there.

Gilley appeared before an Italian judge on Friday, where he was described as a flight risk determined to evade US authorities, according to an official translation of the Italian court hearing.

The Italian court ordered Gilley to stay behind bars in Italy. He’s back in court on Monday for a hearing.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Warm weekend continues with a few storm chances too

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Warm weekend continues with a few storm chances too

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — These warm and humid conditions continue Mother’s Day with the chance for more widespread storms late Sunday night into early Monday morning.

Mother’s Day will look and feel pretty similar to Saturday with some morning cloudiness and steam giving way to a sunny and hot afternoon with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s. There’s a 20%-30% chance you run into a pop-up shower or storm once again Sunday afternoon and early evening. Then it’s after sunset when stronger storms could roll in from the northwest ahead of a cold front that arrives Monday, those storms likely arrive midnight or later tonight.

What’s the latest on Sunday night’s storm threat?

Rain chances will climb to 70% Sunday night when the cool front blows in. Some of those storms could be severe with strong winds, small hail and heavy rainfall. These storms could be loud too with lots of thunder and lightning. Generally we’re expecting these storms from about 10 pm Sunday to 4 am Monday, so the rain should clear by the time you’re heading out for the day Monday.

What’s the latest on drought conditions with all this rain?

We continue to see improvements! In fact, most of Houston and Harris County are now drought-free, and the intensity has lessened all across Southeast Texas. With more rain the forecast these next few days, we should see continued reductions in drought conditions across the region.

Is anymore rain expected next week?

Next week starts off fairly dry once the front clears early Monday morning. Rain chances will stay very low throughout the week with higher moisture levels not returning until next weekend.

SEE ALSO: ABC13 Weather Watch: Widespread storms could bring street flooding, severe weather Friday

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Louisiana Redistricting Fight Sparks Anger and Confusion Over Majority-Black Districts

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Louisiana Redistricting Fight Sparks Anger and Confusion Over Majority-Black Districts

Heated Debate Erupts in Baton Rouge

Louisiana Republicans are facing backlash after moving to redraw the state’s congressional map in a way critics say could eliminate a majority-Black U.S. House district ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

The emotional debate unfolded during a marathon public hearing Friday in Baton Rouge, where activists, pastors, lawmakers and voters accused Republican leaders of weakening Black political representation in the state.

Civil Rights Leaders Speak Out

Among those testifying was Leona Tate, one of the “New Orleans Four” who helped desegregate Southern schools in the 1960s. Tate compared the proposed redistricting effort to past racial discrimination.

Democratic Rep. Cleo Fields warned the fight could impact future elections beyond Congress, including local school boards and city councils.

Civil rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers argued the proposed maps would dilute Black voting power in Louisiana, where Black residents make up roughly one-third of the electorate.

Supreme Court Decision Fuels Map Changes

The controversy follows a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that cleared the way for Republicans to redraw congressional districts across several Southern states.

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry also postponed the state’s U.S. House primary elections that had been scheduled for May 16, creating confusion for voters after thousands of ballots had already been mailed.

Voting rights groups say residents are now uncertain whether some races are still valid and what will happen to ballots already cast.

National Redistricting Battle Intensifies

Louisiana has become part of a broader national redistricting battle as Republicans in several Southern states push to reshape congressional maps before November’s midterm elections.

Republican lawmakers reviewed multiple map proposals Friday, including plans that could allow the GOP to win five or even all six of Louisiana’s congressional districts.

Opponents argue the issue goes beyond politics and reflects a larger fight over voting rights and equal representation.

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

Possible Boat Explosion Near Miami Injures 11 at Haulover Sandbar

Edward Saenz
-
0
Possible Boat Explosion Near Miami Injures 11 at Haulover Sandbar

Emergency Response Launched Near Miami Beach

A possible boat explosion near Miami sent at least 11 people to the hospital Saturday afternoon, according to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue officials.

The incident happened around 12:48 p.m. near the popular Haulover Sandbar, a busy boating destination close to Miami Beach. First responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports of an explosion on a vessel in the water.

Multiple Agencies Responded

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue deployed more than 25 emergency units, including Fireboat 21 and Ocean Rescue teams. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also assisted with the response effort.

Authorities initially reported that 15 people had been transported for medical treatment. Later updates confirmed that 11 victims were hospitalized.

Victims’ Conditions Unknown

Officials have not yet released details about the victims’ injuries or conditions. The cause of the possible explosion remains under investigation.

Images from the scene showed emergency crews surrounding the vessel while treating injured passengers near the sandbar.

Investigation Underway

Investigators are now working to determine what caused the apparent blast. No additional details about the boat or those involved have been released.

Haulover Sandbar is one of South Florida’s most popular weekend boating spots, often crowded with visitors and recreational boaters.

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

BARC Marks 10 Years of ‘Empty the Shelters’ with Discounted Adoptions

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
BARC Marks 10 Years of ‘Empty the Shelters’ with Discounted Adoptions

HOUSTON – BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions is joining the BISSELL Pet Foundation to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its nationwide “Empty the Shelters” event, offering reduced adoption fees from May 1–17, 2026.

The initiative spans more than 335 shelters across 39 states, aiming to connect pets with families while easing overcrowding in shelters.

Lower Fees, More Opportunities

During the event, adoption costs at BARC will drop significantly:

  • $55 for puppies four months or younger
  • $30 for dogs five months and older
  • $10 for all cats and kittens

All adopted pets come spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, along with additional services like flea prevention and city registration.

Extended Hours for Adopters

To increase access, BARC will open daily from noon to 5 p.m., including Mondays — a day the shelter is typically closed. Officials say the expanded hours and lower fees are designed to remove barriers for families considering adoption.

A Nationwide Impact

Since launching in 2016, “Empty the Shelters” has helped nearly 400,000 pets find homes across the U.S. and Canada. Organizers say the milestone highlights the growing need for adoption as shelters continue to face high intake numbers.

Local leaders emphasize that every adoption not only gives an animal a second chance but also frees up space and resources to help more pets in need.

Residents interested in adopting are encouraged to visit BARC in person or check available pets online during the event.

For more animal welfare efforts, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Top 5 Native Plants & Bushes for Houston

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Top 5 Native Plants & Bushes for Houston

Spring in Houston is prime planting season. These native picks thrive in local heat, humidity, and unpredictable rain—while supporting pollinators.

1. Texas Lantana

Texas Lantana
Bright orange and yellow blooms attract butterflies and bees. Drought-tolerant and perfect for full sun.

2. American Beautyberry

American Beautyberry
A standout shrub with vibrant purple berries in fall. Great for shady areas and supports local wildlife.

3. Turk’s Cap

Turk’s Cap
Thrives in Houston’s heat and partial shade. Its red flowers are a favorite for hummingbirds.

4. Gulf Muhly

Gulf Muhly
An ornamental grass with soft pink plumes. Low-maintenance and ideal for adding texture to landscapes.

5. Texas Sage

Texas Sage
Also called “cenizo,” this hardy shrub produces purple blooms after rain and handles drought with ease.

Why Native?

Native plants require less water, fewer chemicals, and are better adapted to Houston’s climate—making them a smart, sustainable choice for April planting.

For more garden and environmental tips, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Frontier Airlines Plane Hits Person on Runway at Denver Airport

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Frontier Airlines Plane Hits Person on Runway at Denver Airport

A Frontier Airlines flight departing from Denver International Airport struck a person on the runway late Friday night, triggering an engine fire and emergency evacuation, officials said.

Person Fatally Struck During Takeoff

The incident happened shortly after 11 p.m. on Runway 17L as the aircraft prepared to depart for Los Angeles. According to officials, the individual had breached airport security, climbed a perimeter fence, and ran onto the runway before being hit by the plane during takeoff.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the victim was at least partially pulled into one of the aircraft’s engines, causing a brief fire.

The flight was carrying 224 passengers and seven crew members.

Smoke Reported Inside Aircraft

Air traffic control audio revealed pilots reported an engine fire and smoke inside the plane immediately after the collision. Emergency crews responded quickly, and passengers were evacuated from the aircraft on the runway.

Preliminary reports indicate 12 people suffered injuries, while five were transported to local hospitals, officials said.

Investigation Underway

National Transportation Safety Board investigators have been notified, and Runway 17L remains closed while authorities examine the incident.

Airport officials said emergency operations and the investigation are ongoing. Security teams were also inspecting the airport’s perimeter fencing Saturday morning to determine how the individual accessed the runway.

Frontier Airlines said it is cooperating with investigators alongside airport officials and federal agencies.

“We are deeply saddened by this event,” the airline said in a statement.

The investigation includes support from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Transportation Security Administration.

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

Norovirus Outbreak Sickens 115 Aboard Caribbean Princess Cruise, CDC Says

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Norovirus Outbreak Sickens 115 Aboard Caribbean Princess Cruise, CDC Says

More than 100 people have fallen ill during a norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Over 100 Passengers and Crew Reported Sick

The CDC said 102 passengers and 13 crew members experienced symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea during the ship’s April 28 to May 11 voyage.

The outbreak was officially reported Thursday while the vessel traveled through the northwest Atlantic Ocean on its way to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic. The ship is expected to arrive at Port Canaveral in Florida on May 11.

There are currently 3,116 passengers and 1,131 crew members aboard the ship.

Cruise Line Increases Sanitization Efforts

In response to the outbreak, crew members increased cleaning and disinfection procedures, isolated sick passengers, and collected testing samples, the CDC said.

Princess Cruises confirmed that a “limited number” of guests reported mild gastrointestinal illness during the voyage departing from Port Everglades.

The company said the ship underwent enhanced sanitization measures and will receive a full deep cleaning once it returns to Port Canaveral before its next scheduled trip.

Norovirus Common on Cruise Ships

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that commonly spreads in crowded environments like cruise ships, schools, and nursing homes. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.

Health officials also clarified the outbreak is unrelated to the recent suspected hantavirus cluster reported aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship.

According to the CDC, this marks the fourth gastrointestinal illness outbreak reported on a cruise ship in 2026.

For more on the norovirus outbreak, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Spring Branch ISD teacher accused of exchanging child porn with someone in Ohio, court records show

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Spring Branch ISD teacher accused of exchanging child porn with someone in Ohio, court records show

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A Northbrook Middle School English teacher is in jail following shocking allegations involving the possession and distribution of child pornography, according to charging documents.

Chandler Price, who has taught at the Spring Branch Independent School District for three years, recently appeared in probable cause court, where prosecutors detailed a disturbing digital trail. According to court records, Price did not just possess the material but was actively communicating with a co-defendant in Ohio to trade illicit images.

During his initial appearance, prosecutors read aloud messages allegedly sent by Price. In one exchange regarding the exchange of child pornography, Price reportedly responded, “lol sure.” Other alleged texts included Price telling a co-defendant, “I have a dude who’s 14 if you’re interested lol,” and “you really love underage.”

The investigation revealed that some of the images in Price’s possession featured children under the age of 10, with some victims appearing to be between 5 and 8 years old.

Spring Branch ISD confirmed that Price is currently on leave from Northbrook Middle School. The district sent an email to parents informing them of the arrest, a move that left many families reeling.

“I’m still in shock,” Carolina Ferman, whose son was in Price’s class last year, said. “You hear stories from other districts and schools, but never this close to home.”

Ferman noted that she had never heard reports of inappropriate behavior during her son’s time in the classroom, making the current charges even more surprising.

A magistrate judge set Price’s bond at $250,000. If he posts bond, Price is required to stay at least 200 feet away from any school. He also can not live within 1,000 feet of any location where children typically gather.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Employee found dead in kitchen of southwest Houston business with blunt force injuries, HPD says

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Employee found dead in kitchen of southwest Houston business with blunt force injuries, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Homicide detectives are investigating after a man was found dead in the kitchen of the southwest Houston business where he worked, according to the Houston Police Department.

According to HPD, the victim’s coworker had not heard from him on Friday morning and went to the business in the 10500 block of Bellaire Boulevard.

HPD said the coworker found the victim dead in the kitchen area and called police.

Video shot at the scene showed detectives coming and going from Tropical Tea as the investigation unfolded.

Investigators said that while the details were unclear, detectives confirmed that the death occurred sometime overnight, and that the man had blunt force injuries.

Detectives said that the front door to the business was locked, which was unusual because the business was supposed to be open. They added that the back door was found unlocked and the victim’s vehicle appeared to be missing.

HPD did not release a suspect description but said two men visited the business overnight.

A coworker found the man after not hearing from him all morning, HPD said.

HPD said that the investigation is ongoing.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

1...345...961Page 4 of 961

Houston’s premier Hispanic news network, dedicated to keeping you informed with the latest updates on local and national breaking news, community events, entertainment, chisme, and much more. We strive to be your trusted source for engaging and timely content that connects with our vibrant community and celebrates the culture and stories that matter most to you.

Contact us: contact@queondamagazine.com

© Copyright - Que Onda Magazine 2024