Saturday, March 17, 2012

Suspect caught in Zales jewelry store smash-and-grab robbery

See it on TV? Check here.Killrain Jarod Randolph is charged with theft in connection to a January jewelry store heist in which four suspects used sledgehammers to smash through the glass cases and steal the contents inside. Killrain Jarod Randolph is charged with theft in connection to a January jewelry store heist in which four suspects used sledgehammers to smash through the glass cases and steal the contents inside.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Authorities have arrested one of four suspects wanted in connection to a January heist where suspects used sledgehammers to break through glass cases of a jewelry store in north Harris County.

Killrain Jarod Randolph was arrested on a theft charge Thursday by members of the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders and Fugitives Task Force after investigators identified him through DNA evidence left at the scene, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. He is being held at the Harris County Jail.

Detectives say Randolph and three other suspects used sledgehammers to smash through the glass cases of the Zales Outlet store in the 5200 block of West FM 1960 on January 25 and took off with the jewelry.

Detectives are still working to identify the other three suspects.

Anyone with information about them is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-8477.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Restaurateur Sylvia Casares recovering after being shot by ex-boyfriend, who's been arrested

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A man who authorities say shot a well-known Houston restaurateur has been arrested in Fort Bend County.

The suspect, who investigators say had been considered armed and dangerous, was arrested by sheriff's deputies and a Texas Ranger Thursday afternoon at a Rosenberg motel. Michael Warren, 58, is charged with aggravated assault.

On Monday night, the Ft. Bend Co. Sheriff's Office says Houston restaurateur Sylvia Casares was wounded after being shot by her ex-boyfriend. Investigators say it happened at Casares' residence in Fulshear.

Years of success at Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen earned Casares an Eyewitness News profile in 2007 and recognition from the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

"She has worked very hard to be where she is today. And we just wish her well," said Dr. Laura Murillo with the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Investigators say at around 9pm on March 12, an argument erupted between Casares and her ex-boyfriend, Michael Warren, at her home in the 1400 block of Foster Lake in Fulshear. She was shot at least once and taken by air ambulance to a local hospital. Warren was seen leaving her residence in a black 2004 GMC Yukon with licence plate 42M-VT1.

Casares, well known in the Houston restaurant scene, underwent surgery after the shooting.

"I think that the lesson here is that domestic violence and these types of things happen to and can happen to anyone," said Dr. Murillo.

Casares is in stable condition in a Houston hospital. She is recovering as family members run day-to-day operations of Sylvia's Enchilada Kitchen.

"We're just sorry to hear that she recently undergone this tragedy, but she has that can do spirit. We know that she'll recuperate and do just fine," Dr. Murillo said.

The manhunt stretched all the way to Lafayette, Louisiana, the suspect's hometown, but ended Thursday afternoon when Warren was arrested at the Palace Inn at Highway 59 near the intersection of FM 2218 in Rosenberg. The arrest occurred without incident.

Officials say they recovered Warren's vehicle in the parking lot of a Lafayette hospital Thursday afternoon. The suspect apparently was returned to Fort Bend County by a relative.

Warren is in the Fort Bend County Jail with a $100,000 bond.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, erik barajas

View the original article here

New home, improvements for MegaDoppler 13 HD

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- MegaDoppler 13 HD is getting even better. It now has a new home in Missouri City.

SkyEye 13 HD was over the site earlier Friday as a crane moved the radar and its protective dome onto the new tower.

The move will help reduce outside interference on the radar and improve its visibility. That means it will be even more accurate to help keep you and your family safe.

Check live MegaDoppler 13 HD radar here.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


missouri city, local

View the original article here

RodeoHouston changes 16 carnival rides' policies after accident

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- There are new developments following this week's accident at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo carnival.

By now, many of you have probably seen our exclusive cell phone video of the 3-year-old girl falling from the ride. Rodeo officials have seen it, too, and now we've learned they're making more changes out at the carnival.

The crowds were out on force on Friday, but many people probably didn't realize there was a change in the ride policies prompted by what happened on Wednesday to that young girl.

A video taken by a parent capturing his own child's ride on the Techno Jump inadvertently recorded the girl's fall. Her mother couldn't fit into the seat so she let the girl, who met the minimum height rule ride, with her brother. In one image, she appears to be slumping in the seat. A few seconds later, as the car sweeps by again, she is seen trying to hold on with her body swinging in the air. Moments later, she was flung to the ground.

She has been released from the hospital after what's been called a concussion. Her family has hired an attorney.

The Techno Jump ride was put back into operation Wednesday evening, and people were lining up for it as soon as the rides opened Friday.

Despite all the publicity, some parents were unaware of the incident.

"You heard about this ride, right?" we asked Latonya Roberts, a mother of two kids.

"No," she said.

"The one where the little girl fell off," we said.

"This is the one?" she said.

Rules for the Techno Jump ride were enhanced after the girl's fall. After touring the midway late Thursday night, Rodeo CEO Leroy Shafer ordered that a total of 16 similar rides to now require a "supervising companion" who is 16 years or older.

"That supervising companion is going to have to be an adult. That's the way it will have to be from now on and that's gong beyond industry standards," Shafer said.

The images of the falling child, while dramatic, still don't show how she managed to elude the restraints of both a seat belt and a lap bar.

But for Roberts, it was the fact that it happened at all that scared her; her kids will be going on only the tamest of rides.

"The rides I don't feel are appropriate for them, I'm not going to put them on it; we'll just pass that up," she said.

We contacted the Texas Department of Insurance for comment. A spokesman for the agency acknowledged officials there had seen the video but said an opinion would not be appropriate.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, deborah wrigley

View the original article here

Watch out for weekend roadwork

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you're going to be in the area of the 610/290 exchange over the weekend, you might want to carefully plan your route. There are a few road closures associated with a construction project that could slow you down.

First there will be alternate lane closures beginning Saturday night at 9pm on the 610 westbound frontage road from Ella to east T.C. Jester. All lanes are scheduled to open back up Sunday at 5am.

Also, the 610 North Loop westbound entrance ramp from Ella will be closed at 9pm Saturday and won't open back up until 5am Monday. Traffic will be detoured to the 610 eastbound frontage road, and then drivers will have to U-turn at Durham to get back on 610 westbound.

The 610 North Loop westbound exit to T.C. Jester will be closed for the next six months, beginning at 9pm Saturday through September 30. Drivers should use the previous Ella exit and continue on the frontage road to T.C. Jester.

These closures are part of the ongoing work on the Highway 290 $151.5 million IH 610/US 290 reconstruction project, which began in July 2011.

For a look at all of the construction projects going on around town, you can check the Houston Transtar website

Check real-time traffic information in our ABC13.com traffic section

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Houston Traffic »


houston traffic

View the original article here

Victim identified in fatal shooting at rave party at southeast Houston house

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The victim killed at a rave at a house in southeast Houston has been identified. He was just 18 years old and about to graduate from high school.

The family of Ryan Spikes of Cypress told Eyewitness News they are just devastated right now and they want some answers. They tell us they want to know who shot the teen and left him to die on the street.

"We're not taking it good at all; not good at all. This is heartbreaking," said Tiffany Spikes, the victim's sister.

Tiffany's 18-year-old brother, Ryan, was killed early Wednesday morning. The Cypress Springs High School senior and athlete was shot outside a huge rave-style party at a vacant house in the 4400 block of Allison. The gunman is still on the run.

"We just hope in Jesus' name that somebody will come forward and just be truthful about it. If it's hindering their heart, come forth or turn themselves in, or if anybody know anything, call TIPS," Tiffany said.

We've learned between 300 and 600 teenagers and Spring Breakers attended the chaotic party which was highly advertised across social media sites. Houston police say officers responded to the scene after reports of loud noise. As police and security tried breaking up the huge crowd, police say they heard gunshots. Ryan's family told us he had no enemies.

"Lord Jesus, my brother was humble. He barely spoke or talk. He was never was in no mess, never fought," said Tiffany.

Witnesses say several people were shooting. Police say they tried chasing down one gunman, but he got away. Now Tiffany and her family are pleading for answers.

We checked with Houston police. They told us detectives are still interviewing witnesses. For now, police and Ryan's family are encouraging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

In light of the shooting, there will be a community meeting on Monday night. It will be held at the Cullen Missionary Baptist Church at 6:30pm. Councilwoman Wanda Adams will be there along with Houston Police Chief Charles McClelland. The goal of the meeting is to talk about ways to prevent something like this from happening again in the community.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, demond fernandez

View the original article here

Fire torches mail room, office at NW Houston apartments

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A fire at a northwest Houston apartment complex overnight may have started in the mail room.

It happened at the complex off Keith Harrow near Queenston. Firefighters tell us it started in a trash can in the mail room and quickly spread through the leasing office and clubhouse.

Several mail boxes were burned and the flames shot through the roof. No one was hurt.

Arson investigators are now looking into the fire.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

Federal judge rejects Liberty County judge's plea deal

  BEAUMONT, TX (KTRK) -- We have a major update in a story broken by 13 Undercover. A federal judge in Beaumont rejected a plea agreement between the US government and the former Liberty County judge.

You'll remember Phil Fitzgerald was named in a 27-count indictment after 13 Undercover helped expose details of an alleged bribery-kickback scheme involving a Hurricane Ike debris contract.

In October, Fitzgerald pleaded guilty to a felony with the understanding he would serve 36 months probation and pay a $75,000 fine.

On Friday, in a rare move, the judge in the case rejected that plea deal, likely sending the case to trial.

You can read much more about this in the Cleveland Advocate, our Houston Community Newspaper partner online. We want to thank them for their help in reporting this story.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more 13 Undercover »


13 undercover

View the original article here

Courthouse shooting suspect had sued HPD

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Throughout the sexual assault investigation, the suspect in the Beaumont courthouse shooting claimed he and his family members were being railroaded by the system. He even filed suit in federal court accusing law enforcement of slander and racial profiling.

Now, we're taking a closer look at how these complaints could demonstrate a long-held frustration with the system that investigators believe led to Wednesday's deadly shooting.

The Grangers filed the lawsuit in September 2010 -- 17 months after the allegations of sexual assault against Bartholomew, Lyndon and Bartholomew Granger Sr. were first reported to the Houston Police Department.

In the suit, which the men filed acting as their own attorneys, they claimed that HPD, Harris County, Beaumont police, and Jefferson County all mistreated them, slandered them and invaded their privacy.

They alleged racial profiling and that authorities falsified evidence while violating their civil and constitutional rights.

In the lawsuit's narrative, they write, "It's like I'm guilty until proven more guilty." And they call the case against them a living nightmare that's gone on far too long. They asked for a jury trial and for $250 million in damages.

"We have a very open legal system, that filing of a lawsuit in and of itself doesn't take a whole lot except effort," Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan said.

Ryan says the Granger case is what's called a pro-se case, in which the plaintiff has no attorney.

Suits like this constitute as much as 20 percent of those levied against Harris County, as many as 150 a year. Virtually none of which ever see a trial, in part because most plaintiffs with real claims find attorneys and in part because the system is complicated.

"It's a very confusing system even if you work inside it, let alone if you're somebody trying to exercise a claim that you might think is legitimate that's not legitimate. But again, it's their right to try and exercise that right," Ryan said.

The lawsuit was amended at least once to include additional defendants as it lingered in the courts for more than a year. But ultimately, in December, a federal judge dismissed the case.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, tom abrahams

View the original article here

Spring Valley Village police urge residents to be on alert after two burglaries in the area

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Authorities in Spring Valley Village are urging residents to be on alert after two burglaries in the area.

On March 15, Spring Valley Village police say between 11:15am and 11:45am, officers responded to two residential alarms within minutes of each other, one at a residence in the 8400 block of Winningham Lane and the other at a residence in the 1400 block of Cedarbrook Drive.

Upon arrival in both cases, officers found that an unknown suspect or suspects had forced entry into the residences.

In one case, it does not appear that any items were taken. In the other incident, valuables were removed from the home.

In the incident on Winningham Lane, police say a witness observed a vehicle parked in front of the residence shortly prior to the police department responding to the alarm. She described the vehicle as an older model Dodge mini-van, dark blue in color. She also stated she observed a male driver in the vehicle and a second male walking from the residence to the vehicle.

Authorities encourage you to immediately report any unusual or suspicious activity to the police department.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

HCAD: Property value notices to start hitting mailboxes

See it on TV? Check here.   HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Property owners in Harris County can expect to get notices over the next three weeks of their 2012 property values. The notices are being mailed out starting today.

The Harris County Appraisal District says about 30 percent of residential properties should expect a drop in value. About 60 percent of property owners in Houston can expect their value to stay the same. The remaining 10 percent will see an increase in property values.

Commercial property owners will get their notices later this month.

About 900,000 letters are supposed to go out to residents in the next three weeks.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Fire at home in Second Ward spreads to house next door

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A heavy fire broke out at a home last night in the Second Ward and quickly spread to the house next door.

It all started around 10pm at a home on Harrisburg and Estelle. Firefighters aren't sure what started the flames, but the house in question was made of wood and had a fire pit in the front yard. A neighbor says he heard they were burning some sort of material in that pit when the fire got out of control.

Everyone managed to get out of the homes safely.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

Agencies battle against graffiti problem

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Graffiti can make a brand new building look like an eyesore and a perfectly safe neighborhood look dangerous.

Graffiti along Highway 59 has been a growing nuisance for residents and businesses. But to fix the problem, several groups have to come together.

If you've driven the 59 corridor, it's hard not to notice the recent unwelcome additions of graffiti.

"We've noticed it on the 59 corridor, and we're trying to address it," said TxDOT spokesperson Danny Perez.

Along the busy Richmond Avenue, businesses are facing a similar problem -- graffiti they have to clean up.

"My warehouse guy, someone has to clean it," said Shawn Sultanali, Baths of America owner. "We have to spend money to go buy the products to clean it. It wastes everybody's time. I don't know for why, what reason."

Sultanali's right -- whether they like it or not, it's the responsibility of property owners to keep their buildings graffiti-free. But what about markings on Houston's highways? That's the job of TxDOT.

Perez said, "It costs about $51,000 a year, to clean that up, to paint over it, to go out there with a pressure washer, to whatever it is we have to do."

TxDOT says it tries to clean up graffiti within 24-72 hours after someone reports it, but there is no obvious reason as to why the graffiti has increased, although some experts speculate it might correlate with spring break.

Patricia Harrington, director of the mayor's anti-gang office, said, "We see more tagger graffiti than gang graffiti, because the goal is to promote the tagger. So that's why you see it on the freeway signs, that's why you see it on the billboards. They want it in a place where it's really going to be exposed and seen."

Those involved with graffiti abatement say the busiest times of year are seasons when students are out of school.

You can report graffiti problems to 311.

We'll have more on this story this afternoon on ABC13 Eyewitness News.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, miya shay

View the original article here

Harris County deputy constable accused of sexual assault of a child

See it on TV? Check here. HOUSTON (KTRK) -- It was his duty to uphold the law. But now, a Harris County Precinct 5 deputy constable is behind bars, accused of sexually assaulting a child.

Deputy Jeremy English was arrested Friday outside of a hospital. Authorities say a teen is accusing him of sexually assaulting her when she was 14-years old.

That teenager is a relative of the deputy constable. Now instead of reporting to work like he was suppossed to, English found himself in a court of law where a judge outlined the charges against him.

As a Precinct 5 deputy constable, English is supposed to uphold the law. Now he's accused of breaking it. The 28-year-old peace officer went before a judge to face three counts of sexual assault of a child and one count of online solicitation of a minor.

The alleged victim is now 17, but prosecutors say she was a minor -- just 14 years old when she and English first engaged in sexual activity. Investigators say she told a relative. The allegations were then reported to the authorities. Harris County Sheriff's Office investigators arrested English Friday afternoon while he was working his second job as a security officer at North Cypress Medical Center.

No one answered the door at English's northwest Harris County apartment. English has worked patrol for Precinct 5 for almost four years. The charges against him may put his career in jeopardy.

"Right now, Deputy English is relieved of duty without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. We will help the sheriff's department any way we can with their investigation," said Lt. Warren Steffenauer with the Precinct 5 Harris County Constable's Office.

English's bond has been set at $80,000. We called his wife for a comment and are awaiting a response.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local, andy cerota
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

International flights out of Hobby?

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Is having two international airports in Houston a smart business move or a plan that could cost jobs and hurt the economy? A controversy is brewing with potentially big implications.

Right now, Bush IAH is a major hub for international travelers. But plans are in the works that could land some international flights at Hobby Airport. Southwest Airlines wants to expand its presence there by adding flights to Mexico and South America.

When Southwest approached the city of Houston, asking to add international flights to Hobby, the city's aviation director listened.

"I'm a fan of competition. I'm a fan of growth for the economy of Houston," said Houston Airport System Director Mario Diaz. "I'm a fan of additional growth and services for all people of Houston. That's my job."

Then this week, Houston Mayor Annise Parker sent a memo to councilmembers, saying the city will undertake a study, saying that, "If we conclude that we support the creation of an international terminal at Hobby, then City Council will be asked to approve a memorandum of understanding on May 9."

Former Continental Airlines CEO Gordon Bethune says he and past Houston mayors developed IAH specifically as the city's international gateway, and it's a key reason for Houston's economic success to date.

"It's going to pop an economic balloon, which has been Houston's economic growth," he said. "It's going to split a big city -- six million people -- into two small cities. So we're going to have transportation like Austin."

United Airlines quickly sent a letter Friday, saying, "We believe this fundamental change in more than 40-year-old aviation policy would weaken the city's economy and kill far more jobs than it might create."

Councilmember Mike Sullivan says the United employees who live in his district are also worried.

"This is not simply 'We like one airline over another.' It's an economic engine for an entire region," he said.

The city says no final decision has been made.

"I think we ought to wait for the study," said. Diaz.

It's a tight timeline. The city wants to finish its city in the next week or so. Council members could vote on it in May.

We contacted Southwest Airlines for comment, but as of 5pm Friday, hadn't heard back.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, miya shay

View the original article here

Patrols stepped up in Meyerland after dogs disappear in burglary

See it on TV? Check here.   HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Houston police and Harris County Precinct 5 deputy constables have stepped up patrols in the Meyerland area after two small dogs disappeared after a burglary.

Officers do not know for sure if these dogs were taken during the recent burglary or whether the animals ran off. Officers are running more patrols during the day in hopes of catching the burglars.

"It's the same M.O. The suspects are entering the backyard, they're throwing a landscaping rock or a brick through the back glass of the house -- most of the time though the glass door -- and they're making entry that way," said Asst. Chief J.J. Laine with the Harris Co. Precinct 5 Constable's Office.

Investigators say they have seen almost a half-dozen similar robberies in the Meyerland and Westbury areas since mid-February.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

City tears down dangerous abandoned home in Fifth Ward after ABC13 report

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- We have an update that's going to make a lot of folks in northeast Houston happy.

Bulldozers Friday turned an old abandoned building into a pile of rubble. We first told you about this dangerous property on Jensen on Tuesday. Neighbors were worried the building could collapse at any moment, and someone could get seriously hurt or even killed.

After our investigation, today the city finally did something about it.

"I think once they do that the property value will come up, the kids will come out and play and it'll just be a lot nicer," said resident Brett Forward.

The city says it still hasn't found the owner, but because it was a serious and immediate hazard, they cleared all the legal hurdles to tear it down.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

Three-alarm fire breaks out at popular White Elephant Flea Market in Channelview

CHANNELVIEW, TX (KTRK) -- Fire lit up the sky above east Harris County early Friday morning, destroying nearly everything in its path at a local flea market. Now that the flames are gone, the business owners are left picking up the pieces and wondering what's next.

That massive three-alarm fire broke out at a popular antiques shop, burning nearly everything inside. It took fire several departments most of the morning to put out the fire at the White Elephant Flea Market along the East Freeway near Carlang in Channelview.

Harris Co. fire marshals say the roof collapsed and the building is destroyed. Firefighters are still putting out hot spots. Officials say they are not ruling out that this fire is suspicious as two buildings on the property were burglarized and three people were seen walking away at around 3:30 this morning, the same time this fire started.

It looked like an inferno. Ferocious flames fighting their way through the roof and windows of the business. The fire attacked the large white tin building as volunteer firefighters struggled to get control of the raging flames. With this blaze blaring and glowing, it didn't take long for worried workers to find out.

"I ran to tell my husband, 'Hon, hon, the flea market is burning,'" said Estella Gonzalez.

"Everything is gone," said one business owner. "Thirty-five thousand. My business is big, you know."

We spoke with one man who has worked at the flea market for years.

"I've been here for five years and that is what I do," said worker Diego Mata. "But now that I'm seeing this, it's like really horrible. It hurts me, you know, because I've been here all of my life, since I was a child. My parents used to be bring me here."

Mata says the booth he works at sells uniform clothing for work and they often leave all of their merchandise inside the building.

For at least two hours, the fire tore through the building before firefighters were able to put it out. And now about 100 booths with jewelry, antiques and other treasures are gone and business owners are left with nothing.

Estella Gonzalez, who had a quinceanera planning business, says her family relied on her earnings.

"I think we lost something like $5,000, $6,000," said Gonzalez. "I'm pretty depressed. This was an investment that we had planned on some earnings we had and now they are gone up in smoke."

Like Gonzalez, many booth owners say they did not have insurance. The owner of the White Elephant Flea Market says the building was insured, but he can only hope for the best.

"We've got some insurance. I doubt if it will cover it, just like normal, we always come out losers," said the owner.

With the signature statue still standing through the devastation, business owners say they are hoping to be able to do the same.

"I don't ever give up. I'm a fighter," said Gonzalez.

According to the The White Elephant Flea Market website, the business has been at the same location for 39 years with more than 400 booths, selling anything from furniture to jewelry. The owner says it is too early to know right now if he can rebuild.

Firefighters are using saws to get to existing hot spots as fire marshals are investigating if this fire was an accident or intentionally set.

No one was injured.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


channelview, local, samica knight

View the original article here

Houston DWI Records

Couples Dating and Singles in Houston, Texas Go for Online Dating Sites

Friday, March 16, 2012

Ex-con accused of punching police dog after fleeing robbery scene

See it on TV? Check here.Edward William Montgomery, 23, is facing two charges of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon as well as a charged of interference with a police service animal. Edward William Montgomery, 23, is facing two charges of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon as well as a charged of interference with a police service animal.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- An ex-convict is accused of punching a police dog after fleeing a robbery scene.

Edward William Montgomery is facing two charges of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon as well as a charged of interference with a police service animal. According to court documents, on March 11 officers responded to a robbery in progress call at an Advanced Auto Parts Store at 1821 W. Mount Houston Rd. in north Houston when Montgomery and co-defendant Alex Newson were inside the store with firearms and had employees and customers on the floor.

Police say Montgomery and Newson fled out the back door when they saw the responding officers. Newson was apprehended immediately, but Montgomery got away into nearby woods.

Court documents state a K-9 unit was called out to assist in the search and located Montgomery. He then punched the dog in the head and body until officers were able to detain him.

Montgomery, 23, has prior convictions for burglary and attempted possession of a prohibited substance in a correctional facility, as well as drug, burglary, theft, evading, assault, injury to a child, and trespassing.

He is not in custody. Bond has been set at a total of $125,000 for the three charges.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Sugar Land residents concerned about new development where Imperial Sugar refinery once stood

SUGAR LAND, TX (KTRK) -- It's been more than a year since the Imperial Sugar factory in Sugar Land came tumbling down and now the land left behind is at the center of a controversy pitting homeowners against developers.

Developers want to bring luxury apartments, restaurants and shops to the area, but residents worry about the impact that could have on their own communities.

The city of Sugar Land says there is some bad information out there about this project and they want to set the record straight. Homeowners, though, wonder if the city is telling the entire story.

Janie Gonzales grew up in a house in the shadow of the Imperial Sugar refinery.

"This house, it means everything to me," Gonzales said.

Developers want to take 800 acres of land around the Imperial site and turn it into shops, restaurants, new homes and apartments. It's the latter that worries Gonzales.

"I've asked how they're gonna control the noise, traffic, everything -- I get no answers," said Gonzales.

The Sugar Land Planning and Zoning Commission recently approved unanimously a plan to move forward.

"The work that the planning and zoning commission did and compromise that the developer did has resulted in many of those concerns having been resolved," said Sugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard.

He says plans are in place to alleviate traffic congestion on the roads, even to create buffers between existing homes and apartments.

The current recommendation to City Council includes 625 apartments, the first 300 to be built near the new baseball stadium. If occupancy exceeds 75 percent, the developer can then construct another 325 closer to the old refinery.

The city says that's better than the prior plan, which limited construction to 459 apartments near the refinery site and contained no cap on the number of units built elsewhere.

"It's still more than the 459," said realtor Diana Miller.

Miller has gathered more than 2,000 signatures against it. She says the project is already hurting homeowners who live closest to the old refinery, who've tried to get their property appraised for a reverse mortgage or refinance.

"It could be valued at $30,000; it could be valued at $200,000. There's just too much uncertainty here," Miller said.

Some have even heard rumors of the city one day using eminent domain to take homes here. The city of Sugar Land insists it has no plans to do so.

The recommendation still must be discussed in a public hearing on April 3 and then voted on by City Council.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


sugar land, local, kevin quinn

View the original article here

Police: Driver chases down hit-and-run suspect

See it on TV? Check here.A hit-and-run crash led to a chase between a driver and the person he hit. A hit-and-run crash led to a chase between a driver and the person he hit.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A driver involved in a hit-and-run accident decided to chase after the car that hit him last night.

It all started on the Gulf Freeway, when the driver of an SUV rear-ended a car and then took off. The driver of the car chased the SUV all the way to southwest Houston where he boxed it in at a dead-end.

Police say the driver of the SUV got out and ran, but was eventually caught by police.

Officers say the driver was drunk. The driver of the car he hit said the chase reached speeds of up to 95 miles per hour. At one point, the suspect rolled down his window and asked why they were chasing him.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Four shot, one killed outside Jefferson County Courthouse

See it on TV? Check here.  BEAUMONT, TX (KTRK) -- A Houston man at court with family members opened fire outside a southeast Texas courthouse Wednesday, killing one person and wounding at least three others before briefly taking hostages at a nearby business, police said.

The 41-year-old gunman had been inside the Jefferson County Courthouse in Beaumont but went out to his pickup truck shortly after 11am, drew a weapon and began shooting, police said. He has been identified as Bartholomew Granger, from Houston.

A detective outside the courthouse fired back. He quickly was joined by law enforcement officers from nearby buildings, police said.

Officials say Granger retreated to his truck and, still firing, ran over his 20-year-old daughter, who had also been shot. He drove about three blocks and abandoned his truck in the middle of the street before entering a nearby construction business, police said.

Granger was taken into custody by Beaumont police SWAT officers at noon.

Authorities say Granger was on trial at the Criminal District Court for aggravated sexual assault. Two of the shooting victims, including his daughter, were witnesses in the case.

The trial began yesterday. Granger's daughter had already testified, and was scheduled for rebuttal testimony today.

Minnie Ray Seabolt, 79, was pronounced dead at the scene, in front of the courthouse main entrance. She was from Deweyville, Texas.

With hostages inside, the gunman spoke by phone to police and told them he was wounded. He eventually surrendered and was taken to an area hospital.

Granger was treated and released. He is currently in the Jefferson County Jail, charged with one count of murder. His bond on the aggravated sexual assault charge was revoked.

"It was crazy," Beaumont Police Chief Jimmy Singletary said. "He was shooting. Our guys were shooting. It was a classic shootout."

A pickup truck riddled with at least a dozen bullet holes remained in the middle of the street Wednesday afternoon.

James Gibson, one of the owners of Richard Construction, said about 50 to 60 employees were inside when the gunman entered. An assault rifle believed to belong to the gunman remained in the building, Gibson said.

Authorities declined to identify the type of weapon the gunman used.

"It was pandemonium," Judge Larry Gist, whose office is across the street from the main courthouse building, said as he described how law enforcement flooded the scene as soon as the shots rang out.

Ricky Gandy said he went to the window of his office at LJA Engineering, which overlooks the parking lot next to the Beaumont Police department, after hearing a "pop, pop, pop."

He saw police shooting at a pickup truck as it came out of the parking lot, but the driver "never really got in a hurry."

"Once it started, it was kind of like the Fourth of July," Gandy added. "Several shots, I imagine, I'm guessing at least 30 shots all together."

At last check, Granger's 20-year-old daughter was in critical condition. Her mother and another shooting victim were treated at area hospitals and released.

Seven Beaumont police officers and two Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies who engaged Granger with gunfire are currently on administrative leave. They were not injured.

Moments after a news conference about the shooting, Jefferson County deputies arrested Lyndon Granger, the brother of the alleged Jefferson County Courthouse shooter, on an old charge of sexual assault. Authorities say he is accused of sexually assaulting the same girl as Bartholomew Granger. He was out on bond but a judge issued a warrant for his arrest. It's not known exactly why the judge made that move, but sources tell us it is in part to protect the public going forward.

Congressman Ted Poe issued the following statement:
"I am deeply saddened by the shooting in Beaumont today. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and the loved ones of the innocent bystanders who lost their lives, and I am praying for a speedy recovery for those who are wounded. As for the shooter, I hope that justice is swift and punishment is harsh."

Beaumont is about 80 miles east of Houston.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


beaumont, local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Magazine: Houston drivers 4th most dangerous in country

See it on TV? Check here.   HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A new report from Men's Health magazine has ranked Houston drivers are some of the most dangerous drivers in the country.

The study looked at the number of car crashes, hit-and-runs, and seat belt use and found Houston was the 4th most dangerous city for drivers.

The worst city is St. Louis followed by Dallas and Charleston, West Virginia. Another Texas city, Austin, was ranked the 10th worst.

So where can you find safe roads?

The report says the safest cities are St. Paul, Lincoln, Boston, Buffalo, and Reno.

See the full list here

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Child injured in carnival ride accident at Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A three-year-old girl was injured in an accident at the RodeoHouston carnival Wednesday.

The accident happened at about 2:20pm. Leroy Shafer, Chief Operating Officer of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, told Eyewitness News the little girl, who is tall for her age, met the height and weight requirements of the Techno Jump ride, but was riding with her brother, rather than an adult.

According to witnesses, the mother decided to get off the ride before it started, leaving the girl and her brother on the ride.

The ride has a lap belt and restraining bar, but Shafer says the boy was unable to prevent his sister from crawling out of the seat. The girl fell a short distance to the ground just after the ride started moving.

The girl was taken to Texas Children's Hospital to be checked out. Shafer said she suffered a contusion on the side of her head and abrasions on her face, but a CAT scan and X-ray tested negative for more serious injuries. She will be OK, minus a painful wound and a bad memory.

Shafer emphasizes it is parents' responsibility to watch out for their kids. He says the Techno Jump is not a kiddie ride.

"The thing I want to emphasize to parents...be responsible out here," Shafer said.

Rodeo officials also say the ride operator is not at fault because she met the height requirement for the ride and there was no way to know that she was so young.

Rodeo spokesperson Sarah Poole says the ride was last inspected on Tuesday, and passed inspection.

The ride was shut down for an investigation but because incident records came back clear for the ride, it reopened later Wednesday afternoon.

Jerry Hagins with the Texas Department of Insurance also says the state has one reported injury of a slip and fall in 2008, but it didn't happen in Houston. The state also said the ride is in compliance with insurance and inspection requirements through March 31, 2012.

Rodeo officials says they will enforcing a policy for the Techno Jump until the end of this year and then they'll review it for the future.

"The ride operators are not going to let a child that's under 48 inches of height ride on the ride if the companion is not an adult," Shafer said.

State Representative Garnett Coleman says lawmakers need to do their part to maintain safety. He's working on legislation to hold traveling carnivals to the same safety standards as permanent ones.

"Clearly there needs to be more scrutiny on traveling amusement rides," Coleman said in a statement. "This is a yearly story with this particular operator that someone is hurt or killed."

Last year, a man fell to his death from a carnival roller coaster ride on the last night of the rodeo.

But in this particular accident, parents we talked to said it was the parent, not the carnival ride operator or the rodeo, who they felt was at fault.

"If the child is 42 inches tall and they're three, then I would get on with them. She's eight and I'm getting on with her," parent Shanta Robinson said.

We asked CPS if they plan to investigate Wednesday's incident and the agency said they don't plan on it because it appears to be a case of a parent just making a bad decision.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


houston livestock show and rodeo, local

View the original article here

Places and Points To Consider Before Getting Houston TX Piano Lessons

Firefighter dies after collapsing while responding to call

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- It's a sad day for the Houston Fire Department as they mourn the loss of a veteran firefighter who died on the job Wednesday.

Right now, you can see flags outside fire stations across this city are at half staff as emergency workers mourn the loss of a longtime fire captain.

It was an emotional morning as hundreds of firefighters lined the streets escorting the body of Sr. Captain Thomas "Bill" Dillion to the Medical Examiner's Office.

"It's a tough day for the fire department. Anytime we lose one of our firefighters, it's a very difficult day," said Richard Mann, HFD Exec. Asst. Fire Chief.

Firefighters gathered at the hospital to show their support and form a 'wall of honor' as his body was loaded into the ambulance.

The 22-year veteran of HFD died in the line of duty while responding to a kitchen-related fire at a southwest Houston apartment complex on Cook Road on Wednesday morning. The fire was quickly contained, and the concern became the firefighter's health.

During a news conference Wednesday, HFD's fire chief said Capt. Dillion collapsed after experiencing chest pains. Several emergency workers tried administering CPR on the 49-year-old.

His children and ex-wife rushed to the West Houston Medial Center where Dillion was pronounced dead one hour after his collapse.

"It's a line of duty death because he is at work, and he is performing his duty. Unfortunately, in the American fire service, one of our primary causes of death is heart attacks. This may be one of those heart attacks that we have," said HFD Chief Terry Garrison. "We're at our fire station, we're relaxed, and then the alarm comes and we respond. We kind of go from 0 to 10 miles an hour in a very short period of time, and over years that has stress on your heart."

The fire chief says the investigation into Dillion's exact cause of death is ongoing.

Dillion was assigned to Station 69, but was working a fill-in shift at another station when the incident happened.

Comrades called Dillion a good friend and a good leader.

"We spend every minute of every day being leaders away from the fire ground and at the fire stations, and he'll be remembered for that. He was a good leader away from the fire ground and at the fire station every minute of every day he was on shift, he was a good leader," Mann said.

Among his family members, Dillion leaves behind three children.

The following statement was issued today by Jeff Caynon, president of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association (HPFFA):
"The men and women of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association mourn the loss of Senior Captain Thomas W. ("Bill") Dillion. Senior Captain Dillion died today in the line of duty after fighting a fire at a southwest Houston apartment complex. He passed away after collapsing at the fire scene. Assigned to HFD Station 69, Senior Captain Dillion was an exemplary and well-respected firefighter during his 22-year HFD career. He is survived by three children. Memorial arrangements are pending.

"This tragic passing of Senior Captain Dillion reminds us of the inherent dangers of our profession. The HPFFA, the City of Houston and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) are supporting and working with the Dillion family and all affected firefighters during this difficult time. Please keep the Dillion family, as well as the men and women of Station 69 and the city's fire department, in your thoughts and prayers."

Mayor Annise Parker also released a statement: "His commitment to saving the lives and property of others is why we honor our firefighters' service. May Senior Captain Thomas W. Dillon rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the support of the Houston Fire Department and the entire City of Houston."

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


houston fire department, local, demond fernandez

View the original article here

Man charged in home invasion attack where grandmother, small children were victimized

See it on TV? Check here.Ivan Jayasi, 22, is charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. Ivan Jayasi, 22, is charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Houston grandmother was terrorized in her own home last week, and now a man is facing charges.

On March 6, the woman was at her home in the 900 block of Eubanks in north Houston with her two small grandchildren when two men wearing bandanas over their faces burst into the house. Court documents state that Ivan Jayasi, 22, grabbed the woman, while another man pointed a shotgun at her.

While the other man searched the house, Jayasi reportedly held the gun on the victim and her granddaughter. The woman told police that when the men didn't find what they were looking for, they ordered her and her grandchildren into a bathroom. After a time, they came out and the men were gone. They apparently stole only a suitcase containing a typewriter.

The victim told police she believed she recognized Jayasi as an acquaintance of her daughter and son-in-law. A neighbor who witnessed the men go into the home with a shotgun and bandanas over their faces identified him to police as well.

Jayasi is charged with aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon. Bail has been set at $50,000.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

State fire marshal's office probing Houston firefighter's death

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The state fire marshal's office is now investigating the death of a Houston firefighter.

Daniel Search, 27, was at work at Fire Station 16 in the Montrose area on Friday. The next day, he was found dead at his home.

Search was a rookie firefighter, and his father told us his job was his passion.

The medical examiner has yet to determine how he died. The state fire marshal's office investigates all firefighter deaths to see if they are job related.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

Man fatally struck by hit-and-run driver

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The search is on for a driver who ran over and killed someone and just kept driving early this morning.

The deadly hit and run happened on West Fuqua in southwest Houston about 2:15am. Police say the victim is a Hispanic male in his 40s. The driver who hit him was headed west on Fuqua.

According to police, a witness saw the driver swerve and apparently hit the man, who was standing in the street, but then kept going. He ended up stopping at the stop sign. A witness says the driver got out of his car and looked at his vehicle.

"The witness then made eye contact with the suspect and he told him, 'Hey, I think you hit somebody back there and you may want to go back.' That male then got back in his car and then drove off," said an investigating officer.

The witness also told authorities the driver didn't appear intoxicated.

Police are looking for a white Honda Accord with front right end damage, and possible window damage as well. There was a woman driver who apparently tried to chase down that driver to get a license plate. Police would like to speak that driver as well.

The victim hasn't been identified.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, elissa rivas

View the original article here

Gas station gives away free gas in east Houston

See it on TV? Check here.  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Shell gas station in east Houston gave away free gas to hundreds of lucky motorists Wednesday morning to promote its new gasoline.

The free gas giveaway was held at the Shell station at 5100 block of Lockwood Drive from 7:30am to 8:30am. Drivers got up to 15 gallons of the new Shell gas product for free.

It's part of a promotion Shell is having at gas stations nationwide.

Were you there getting gas? Did you take photos of the lines? If so, send them to us at news@abc13.com or upload them here.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.)
Get more Local »


local
// perform JavaScript after the document is scriptable.OTV.common.modules.promoCarousel.promoCarouselInit("/ktrk/xml?id=5758258&ptnr=promoCarousel");

(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document,"script","twitter-wjs");

View the original article here

Fifth Ward residents want city help to demolish abandoned homes

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- They're dangerous, they attract criminals, and bring down property values -- and neighbors want them gone. Old abandoned homes are literally falling apart in a northeast Houston neighborhood. So what, if anything, is being done about the problem?

On a quiet street, along Lavender near Liberty, tucked in the middle of the Fifth Ward we found homes no one would want for a neighbor.

Frustrated families on Lavender say they're dealing with a big neighborhood nuisance.

"It's just horrible," said neighbor Barbara Beal. "It's just like something out of another country."

Homeowners are calling nearly half the houses on the 2900 block of Lavender "abandoned or neglected properties."

"I'm glad somebody came out to see what we are talking about," said neighbor Sandra E. Richardson. "On paper, it's nothing. But if you can get to see what we live next to, maybe they'll do something."

The neighbors say some of the vacant homes are hazardous and caving in. They say others are raggedy, attracting too many rodents, squatters and other strange traffic. Neighbors say they're asking the city to do one thing.

"Demolished. Just clean them all up," Beal suggested.

"It is a serious problem," acknowledged Houston's Chief Development Officer Andy Icken. "It's one that we are trying to get our hands on right now."

Icken says the city is trying to tackle the abandoned property issue. Last month, council members approved $3.5 million from the affordable housing fund to demolish hundreds more homes. But Icken says the city's dealing with several challenges.

"Finding who the owner is, getting them to respond," he said. "That's the biggest challenge as we start here."

That reality isn't a good enough excuse for neighbors on Lavender who say they've been complaining about the eyesores for years.

Richardson said, "We need some help from somewhere and all we are asking is them to come in and help us."

Just like the city, we also had a tough time tracking down good contact information for those property owners. The city's next scheduled demolition day is May 19.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local, demond fernandez

View the original article here

Candle may be to blame for house fire

Firefighters say the father woke up to the smell of smoke, discovered the front of the house on fire and evacuated his family. Firefighters say the father woke up to the smell of smoke, discovered the front of the house on fire and evacuated his family.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A burning candle appears to have started a fire that destroyed a home in northeast Houston.

Firefighters say the home on Bennington near Glass didn't have electricity. The residents used candles, and one of them apparently started the fire that engulfed the home and spread to an RV. The male resident woke up to the smell of smoke around 1am.

He made it out with his wife and infant before firefighters arrived. He suffered a cut during the process and went to the hospital.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here

Two injured in serious accident in NW Houston

A major accident in northwest Harris County leaves two injured. A major accident in northwest Harris County leaves two injured.

  HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A man had to be taken by Life Flight after an accident in northwest Houston overnight.

Around midnight, a flatbed wrecker driver was responding to a crash scene at the intersection of of Fallbrook at the Sam Houston Parkway when a car slammed into its side. The impact was so hard it lifted the wrecker in the air, causing it to crash into a traffic light pole.

Crews had to use rescue jaws to pry out the two men inside the car. One man was transported by Life Flight in serious condition. The other is listed as stable.

Investigators are trying to determine who was at fault. Both drivers say they had the green light.

(Copyright ©2012 KTRK-TV/DT. All Rights Reserved.) Get more Local »


local

View the original article here