HOUSTON, Texas – Here’s a look at your top stories to help start your day.
‘This ends now’: 20 alleged ‘Free Money’ gang members charged in federal RICO indictment in Houston
Federal prosecutors unsealed an 18-count indictment charging 20 men tied to the Houston-area “Free Money” gang with racketeering (RICO), murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, drug trafficking and firearms violations. The indictment details years-long violent activity — including drive-by shootings in public places and other armed attacks — that allegedly terrorized Houston neighborhoods. Authorities say the action is part of a major crackdown aimed at restoring safety and sending a clear message that gang violence will not be tolerated.
Hitchcock mayor and school district administrator arrested following gambling raids
Christopher Armacost — who serves as mayor of Hitchcock and assistant superintendent of Hitchcock ISD — was arrested as part of a large illegal gambling investigation in Galveston County. Law enforcement executed search warrants at roughly 20 locations across Hitchcock, believed to be operating unlawful gambling operations, including convenience stores and gaming rooms. Officials say the investigation continues and the school district is reviewing the situation.
Several Camp Mystic parents ask state to deny license renewal
Parents who lost children in last year’s deadly Texas Hill Country flood at Camp Mystic are urging state officials to deny the camp’s license renewal. The group is opposing plans to reopen the camp’s Cypress Lake location for summer 2026, citing safety concerns following the tragic flooding that killed numerous campers and counselors last July.
Trump says he doesn’t know if aliens are real but directs government to release files on UFOs
Former President Donald Trump stated that he does not personally know whether extraterrestrial life exists but has ordered U.S. government agencies to identify and release all files related to UFOs and unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). Trump made the comments while clarifying that although he has no firm opinion on alien life, transparency on the government’s knowledge of UFOs is a priority.
Eric Dane, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Euphoria’ star, has died at 53
Actor Eric Dane, best known for his roles as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy and Cal Jacobs on Euphoria, has died at age 53. Dane passed away from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) — also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease — less than a year after publicly announcing his diagnosis. He was a vocal ALS awareness advocate, and his family said he spent his final days surrounded by loved ones.