Year in Review: Top Stories Across the Coastal Bend in 2025
SOUTH TEXAS - A look back at the biggest headlines and turning points across the Coastal Bend this year.
Cotton Picker Tractor Fire in Ricardo
2. Sandy’s Six Pack
3. David Chavez Field
4. Former Texas State Trooper in Kingsville Convicted of Child Sexual Abuse
Former Texas State Trooper, Andrew Smith.
Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a prison sentence of 14 years for Andrew Smith, a former Texas State Trooper, for Indecency with a Child. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorneys General Erika Hime and Elizabeth Mireles with the Office of the Attorney General, at the invitation of the Kleberg County District Attorney John Hubert.
5. ICE Conducts Raid on Contractor at Texas A&M University-Kingsville Campus
6. Parents Question PTO Spending as Playground Fund Remains Unfulfilled
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS – April 3, 2025
A simple question posted on social media sparked controversy at Harrell Elementary School. A parent asked, “When are we going to see the new playground for our elementary school?” That question quickly gained traction as other parents echoed the concern. A breakdown of expenditures indicates frequent purchases at Wing Stop, DoorDash, Amazon, and Walmart. However, without accompanying receipts, the nature of these expenses remains unclear.
7. Powerful Storm in Bishop
8. Credentialing of Crime Scene Specialist Rylee Counts
KINGSVILLE, TEXAS - August 12, 2025.
She is believed to be the first person from any Kleberg County law enforcement agency to earn this credential. Chief John Blair, Kingsville Police Department, commended Counts for her dedication: "Rylee’s achievement reflects her work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to serving our community with professionalism. Earning this credential so early in her career speaks volumes about her passion for the field and her determination to excel."
