A Texas Highway Patrol trooper died Wednesday on U.S. 287 after a collision with a tractor-trailer during a traffic stop. The Texas Department of Public Safety said the crash is under investigation.

Urban Bird opened June 9 in Sunset Valley at 5207 Brodie Lane, serving hot chicken, piled‑high loaded fries and cereal‑topped milkshakes. The new outpost adds another quick‑service choice to Brodie Lane.

San Marcos’ City Council voted Tuesday to ban data centers across all zoning districts after months of heated meetings. The move responds to water, power and neighborhood worries.

DPS says it has doubled the Texas Rangers’ cold‑case staff to 17 Rangers and three support staff, adding investigators to every Ranger company to chase unsolved murders and sexual assaults. The move leans on federal and state funding and advances in forensic testing.

Austin police say a person was killed in the 4900 block of South Congress Avenue; investigators closed lanes and are asking witnesses to come forward.

Del Valle ISD adopted a $142M budget and is weighing a voter‑approved tax‑rate election this fall to turn one‑time payouts into permanent raises. Officials say the proposal would add recurring funds to staff the district’s planned new high school.

Huston‑Tillotson says education degrees remain valid after state regulators moved to revoke its educator‑prep accreditation, leaving a small group of students seeking new certification routes.

An Extreme Heat Warning covers Austin today with heat indices topping 110°F. Cooling centers are available; avoid outdoor exertion during peak hours.

APD recognized two officers for teamwork in a child‑abuse investigation that led to an arrest. The department praised their compassionate approach.

T.J. Maxx will take a 25,304-square-foot junior-anchor at Liberty Hill Crossing with construction slated to finish Aug. 15, 2026, per state permit filings.

Edd Hargett, Texas A&M's 1960s quarterback, was selected for the 2026 Southwest Conference Hall of Fame; induction is set for Aug. 4 in Waco.

Austin police are investigating a homicide Tuesday night in the 4700 block of East Oltorf Street. Authorities say details about the victim and motive are limited.

A privately funded downtown day hub reopened June 15 to offer showers, meals and case management for people experiencing homelessness.