AI-powered scammers are cloning World Cup ticket sites and pressuring Houstonians with urgent texts. Here are the red flags and safe ways to buy or watch games in Houston.

A 14-year-old was hospitalized after touching an energized light pole at F.M. Law Park in southeast Houston; a coach's quick CPR helped stabilize him. Officials cut power to the fixture and the city has been asked for comment.

Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn say two people were arrested after unsealed complaints accused them of posting hundreds of AI-generated pornographic deepfakes of public figures and private victims.

A federal jury convicted Jonathan Smith‑Byrd of trafficking five women, including three minors. Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 3, 2026, and he faces up to life in prison.

A Houston mother says a passenger fired a gun during a road‑rage encounter on the Katy Freeway; her teen’s cellphone reportedly caught the shot. Investigators are asking witnesses to come forward.

A 'We Remember' bench at Cypress Park includes a QR code linking to case details and an anonymous tip form in the unsolved 2023 killing of Austin Kanuch. Family members used the unveiling to renew their plea as a $40,000 reward remains available.

Houston police say a multi‑agency operation last Thursday recovered 38 kilograms of meth and eight firearms; a suspect wanted on a delivery warrant was arrested.

A rollover on State Highway 288 near McHard Road early Thursday killed a woman and sent three others to hospitals. Ramps and the HOV lane were closed during cleanup.

A 23-year-old was arrested at a North Freeway Walmart after employees say he filmed multiple women; he faces an invasive visual‑recording charge.

Owner and manager of Houston Jewelry Buyers were charged after court filings allege the shop sold counterfeit Rolex, Cartier and Louis Vuitton items valued at six figures.

Twenty-seven bricks of cocaine washed ashore on Galveston’s West End; police collected the packages and warned beachgoers not to touch suspicious items.

Surveillance video shows a black sedan strike another car in Houston; the driver was arrested and charged with felony failure to stop and render aid. The accused, a former U.S. attorney, posted bond after an arrest at her home.

Juan Manuel Yanez was sentenced to life after pleading guilty in the 2025 shooting death of Victoria Valadez in San Marcos. He must serve at least 30 years before parole.