The Amarillo 5

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The Amarillo 5 is the premiere local news podcast for Amarillo TX. Get all your local daily news in 5 minutes or less. We cover daily weather, local events, crime reporting, local politics, local business and more. Look for a new episode at 5:30 am every morning.

  1. 27 MIN AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 6, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news Capital Murder Indictment: Christopher Thomas Ale, the boyfriend of former Amarillo woman Chelsea Rene Berg, has been indicted for capital murder in connection with the death of Berg's 3-year-old son. A Collin County grand jury handed down the indictment this week. Berg was previously indicted on one count of capital murder in the case [5]. Fugitive of the Week: Amarillo Crime Stoppers is seeking Jennifer Lynn Francis, wanted for two counts of probation violation. Francis was originally on probation after an incident where she bit a cat's genitals and stalked a former West Texas A&M professor. Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact Crime Stoppers [1][2][3]. American Idol Update: Amarillo native Cameron James Smith's journey on American Idol has ended. Smith was competing for a chance at the national spotlight but will not be advancing further in the competition [5]. Weather Severe Weather Alert - Thursday, March 5: The Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles face a conditional severe weather threat Thursday afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service warns of very large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes possible across the region. Residents should monitor weather conditions closely and have multiple ways to receive warnings [2]. Red Flag Warning - Friday: A Red Flag Warning has been issued for Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the majority of the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles due to critical fire conditions. Residents should avoid outdoor burning and be cautious with any activities that could spark fires [1][2]. Current Conditions: Temperatures are currently around 59°F with overcast skies. The weekend forecast shows Saturday dropping to 53°F and Sunday warming to 73°F with sunny and breezy conditions expected [2][6]. Emergency Preparation: With severe weather possible, residents should ensure they have a safety plan in place, including knowing where to shelter during tornado warnings and having emergency supplies ready. The NWS Amarillo office offers Skywarn spotter training for those interested in learning more about severe weather safety [6]. Events Skywarn Spotter Training: The National Weather Service Amarillo office has announced its 2026 Skywarn Spotter Training Class Schedule. These free classes train volunteers to identify and report severe weather conditions. Interested residents can check the NWS Amarillo website for specific dates and locations. This training is vital for community safety as spotters provide ground-truth reports that help the NWS issue more accurate warnings [6]. Daylight Saving Time Reminder: Residents should prepare to spring forward this Sunday, March 8. Experts warn the time change may bring days of grogginess and potential health risks. Consider adjusting sleep schedules gradually and be extra cautious while driving in the days following the change

    6 min

  2. 29 MIN AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 6, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: FORMER AMARILLO WOMAN INDICTED FOR CAPITAL MURDER: Chelsea Rene Berg has been indicted by a Collin County grand jury on one count of capital murder in the death of her 3-year-old son. Berg is a former Amarillo resident. The indictment was handed down as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the child's death [1][3]. FUGITIVE OF THE WEEK: Amarillo Crime Stoppers is seeking Jennifer Lynn Francis, who is wanted for two counts of probation violation. Francis was previously on probation after she bit a cat's genitals and stalked a former West Texas A&M professor. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers [1][3]. GAS PRICES SURGE: Gas prices have jumped following Iran strikes and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has stranded oil tankers. Residents can expect higher prices at the pump in the coming days [1][2]. Weather: SEVERE WEATHER THREAT THURSDAY: The Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles are under a conditional severe weather threat on Thursday, March 5th. Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms could develop late Thursday afternoon, bringing threats of very large hail, damaging wind gusts, and a smaller chance of isolated tornadoes [1][2]. RED FLAG WARNING FRIDAY: A Red Flag Warning has been issued for Friday from 11 a.m. onward for a majority of the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles. Critical fire weather conditions are expected with southwesterly winds of 25-35 mph and gusts up to 50 mph, combined with low humidity values [1][2][7]. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: The City of Amarillo urges residents to sign up for AMA Alerts, the emergency notification system for Potter and Randall counties. Residents can also download the Everbridge app for real-time mobile notifications. During severe wind events that cause widespread power outages, the City will establish Power and Comfort Centers for residents to charge devices, access water, and find shelter. Call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies such as fires, downed power lines, or immediate danger [5]

    5 min

  3. 1 DAY AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 5, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: WWII VETERAN CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL: Charles Elliot, a World War II veteran and resident of the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo, turned 100 years old on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The community rallied around him, delivering more than 5,000 birthday cards for his centennial celebration. Elliot served as a Private First Class rifleman in Japan during WWII and received the Bronze Star for his service [1]. PERRYTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO CAPITAL MURDER: A Perryton man has pleaded guilty to killing a 4-year-old girl and setting her room on fire. He was sentenced to life in prison for the capital murder conviction [8][9]. BOYFRIEND INDICTED IN CHILD'S DEATH: Christopher Thomas Ale, the boyfriend of a former Amarillo woman, was indicted by a grand jury for capital murder in the death of the woman's 3-year-old son [1][4]. VEHICLE FIRE DOWNTOWN: One person was evaluated by emergency medical services after a vehicle caught fire in the parking lot of the Santa Fe Building at 900 S. Polk in downtown Amarillo on Wednesday afternoon, March 4, around 3 p.m. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, but two other vehicles received minor damage. The Potter County Sheriff's Office is investigating [5]. DEAD ANIMALS ILLEGALLY DUMPED: The Castro County Sheriff's Office is investigating the illegal dumping of dead animals near Nazareth. Sheriff Sal Rivera confirmed the animals were not domesticated or livestock. Juvenile suspects have been identified, and the Texas Game Warden is assisting with the case. The matter will be presented to the District Attorney's Office once the investigation concludes [4]. Weather: SEVERE STORM THREAT THURSDAY, MARCH 5: The Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles are under a conditional severe weather threat Thursday afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center warns of very large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes, particularly across the eastern and southeastern Texas Panhandle [2]. OVERNIGHT HAIL STORM: Many Amarillo residents were awakened around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, by hail pounding roofs and windows. The heaviest hail, measuring up to two inches in diameter, fell in areas west and east of Amarillo, including around Coulter. The storm was caused by a cold front moving from the south/southeast northward [6]. FIRE DANGER PERSISTS: Despite the storms, drought conditions continue to worsen. A red flag warning is in effect Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. for Cimarron and Dallam counties, while the rest of the region remains under a fire weather watch Friday due to breezy winds and low humidity [6]. RECOMMENDED PREPARATIONS: Residents should monitor weather reports, enable phone alerts, and have multiple information sources ready. The National Weather Service notes storm season appears to be starting earlier this year, making preparedness critical [6]. Events: PRIMARY ELECTION RESULTS: Over 35,000 residents of Potter and Randall counties voted in the March 3, 2026 primary elections. Democratic ...

    5 min

  4. 2 DAYS AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 4, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Fatal Highway Collision: An Amarillo truck driver was killed early Saturday morning, February 28, 2026, after his vehicle struck a herd of cows on U.S. 82 east of Nocona [2, 3]. The crash occurred at approximately 4:35 a.m. [2]. Major Drug Seizure: Court documents released on February 27, 2026, revealed that suspects involved in a high-speed police chase through Amarillo discarded approximately $566,000 worth of methamphetamine before being apprehended [1]. Child Abuse Arrest: An Amarillo man was taken into custody after court documents filed on February 27, 2026, alleged he used his hands to break a child's bone [1]. Police Chief Departure: Amarillo Police Chief Martin Birkenfeld has retired effective Friday following a suspension for writing a letter of support for a former coach convicted of federal child sex crimes [7]. The City Manager is currently finalizing a separation agreement [7]. Weather: The forecast for the upcoming week shows a significant warming trend. Residents can expect sunny conditions with a high of 70°F today, climbing to 85°F by Tuesday [7]. However, a cold front is expected to bring temperatures back down to the low 40s by Thursday and Friday [2, 5]. Emergency Preparation: Xcel Energy recently completed a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) affecting over 15,000 customers in the Panhandle due to extreme wildfire risks and high winds [8]. While power has been restored, residents are advised to maintain an emergency kit and stay tuned to local channels (KAMR Local 4 or Fox 14) for sudden shutoff notices if high-wind conditions return [8]. Events: High Plains Dairy Conference: This biennial event is currently taking place at the Embassy Suites Hotel in downtown Amarillo (March 3-5, 2026) [2]. The conference is critical for local producers to discuss the labor crunch, milk price outlooks, and new dairy technology [2]. Registration typically requires a professional fee, but it serves as a primary networking hub for the region's massive dairy industry [2]. TPBA Annual Home & Garden Show: The Texas Panhandle Builders Association is hosting its annual showcase at the Amarillo Civic Center

    4 min

  5. 3 DAYS AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 3, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: MASSAGE BUSINESS RAIDED: Amarillo Police Department executed a search warrant at Jenny Spa, located at 1324 SE 10th Avenue, on February 24, 2026, as part of an investigation into illicit sexual activity and prostitution. The Narcotics and Task Force Officer unit collected evidence during the raid, and the City of Amarillo Fire Marshal's Office subsequently shut down the building. Police stated that identities of parties involved will be released once formal charges are filed [1]. AMARILLO MAN ON MOST WANTED LIST: Jeffery DeWayne Wallace, an Amarillo man with more than 20 prior arrests, has been added to the Texas Department of Public Safety's "Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives" list. Wallace has an extensive criminal history including domestic violence charges [2]. SWAT STANDOFF RESOLVED: Douglas Ross was arrested following a domestic disturbance that escalated into a SWAT standoff at 1115 Prescott Street. Ross faces three charges: assault causing bodily injury to a family member, interference with an emergency request for assistance, and evading arrest [3]. PANHANDLE MILLING CONTESTS OSHA VIOLATIONS: Panhandle Milling is contesting OSHA violations issued after a deadly explosion at its flour mill in Dawn, Texas, that killed 36-year-old Melissa Mungia. The company was fined $39,721 for violations including failure to maintain an employee alarm system, improper handling of fugitive grain dust accumulations, and using compressed air to unclog lines while ignition sources were present [4]. Weather: BLOOD MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE: Early risers across the Texas Panhandle can witness a rare total lunar eclipse on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, when the full moon will turn a deep red color. If weather cooperates, this celestial event will be visible in the early morning hours. The next total lunar eclipse visible in the region won't occur until June 25, 2029 [5]. RECORD-BREAKING WINTER: Meteorological winter 2025-26 has gone down in the record books as the warmest and one of the driest winters ever recorded across the Texas Panhandle [6]. Current conditions show temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-70s range for the week [7]. Events: BOYCE-SNEED FEUD DESCENDANT SPEAKER: A descendant of a key figure in the famous Boyce-Sneed Feud will speak at West Texas A&M University. This historical presentation offers insight into one of the Texas Panhandle's most notorious family feuds. Check WT's event calendar for specific time and location details [8]. local business: PANHANDLE MILLING FACING OSHA FINES: Following the deadly February explosion that killed one employee, Panhandle Milling is contesting $39,721 in OSHA fines. The violations cited include inadequate alarm systems, improper grain dust management, and unsafe work practices during milling operations. The company has formally contested the violations [4]. school: CRESTVIEW ELEMENTARY SAFETY MEASURES: Canyon officials are prioritizing additional safety measures around Crestview Elementary School. The community has identified the I-27/State Highway 217 intersection as a top safety concern, though it currently does not qualify for SS4A (Safe Streets and Roads for All) funding. Local leaders are exploring alternative funding sources to address the safety issues

    4 min

  6. 4 DAYS AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 2, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: TRAILER HOME FIRE SENDS MULTIPLE TO HOSPITAL: Multiple people were transported to the hospital after an early morning trailer home fire at 2310 NW 2nd Ave. The fire started around 4:15 a.m. on Sunday, March 1. When firefighters arrived five minutes later, they found the trailer fully involved. Fortunately, the occupants had already escaped. A second alarm was called due to the close proximity of other trailers. Crews had the fire under control by 4:32 a.m. The occupants were treated on scene and taken to the hospital for further observation [1]. BORGER POLICE AND AMARILLO LAW FIRM IN BODYCAM DISPUTE: The Borger Police Department and an Amarillo law firm are at odds following the public release of allegedly altered body-worn camera footage involving an arrest made on Feb. 25. The arrested man's family formally requested the footage, which was denied via letter on Feb. 26. On Feb. 27, Borger PD released the footage on social media, with a portion presented in slow motion. On Feb. 28, the law firm Stockard Johnston Brown Netardus & Doyle, P.C. released a public statement condemning the police department's actions [2]. THREE U.S. TROOPS KILLED IN IRAN CONFLICT: President Trump confirmed three U.S. service members were killed in action and five seriously wounded during Operation Epic Fury, a joint U.S.-Israel strike on Iran. This marks the first U.S. combat casualties of Trump's second term. Trump stated, "America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists," and warned that more casualties are likely [3]. Additionally, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were mistakenly shot down by Kuwait air defenses during the operation [4]. AUSTIN MASS SHOOTING UNDER TERRORISM INVESTIGATION: Three people are dead and 14 injured following a mass shooting at Buford's on West 6th Street in Austin early Sunday. The FBI is investigating the possibility of terrorism after authorities found "indicators" on the gunman and in his vehicle. The suspect wore clothing with "Property of Allah" and an Iranian flag emblem [5]. Governor Abbott stated, "This act of violence will not define us, nor will it shake the resolve of Texans," and warned that Texas will respond with decisive force to anyone using the Middle East conflict to threaten the state [6]. Weather: ROLLERCOASTER TEMPERATURES TO START MARCH: Amarillo is experiencing dramatic temperature swings this week. Currently 37°F with partly cloudy skies. Monday will reach 75°F with mostly sunny conditions. Tuesday jumps to 83°F with partly cloudy skies, then drops to 69°F by Wednesday [7]. No severe weather events are forecast for the next week. Residents should prepare for significant temperature variations and dress in layers. Events: AMARILLO SYMPHONY 'ROMANCE AT THE SYMPHONY': The Amarillo Symphony held a 'Romance at the Symphony' performance recently. Check the Amarillo Symphony website for upcoming performances and ticket information [8]. TEXAS A&M AGLS VISIT: The Texas A&M College of Agriculture & Life Sciences made a stop in Amarillo over the weekend, providing access, information, and resources to prospective students interested in agricultural programs [9]. AMERICAN QUARTER HORSE MUSEUM RENOVATIONS: The American Quarter Horse Museum continues progress on renovations. This ongoing project will enhance the visitor experience at this important Amarillo cultural attraction [8]. local business: No major business openings, closings, or promotional events were reported in today's findings. Check back for updates on local business developments. school: TEXAS A&M OUTREACH: Texas A&M's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences visited Amarillo ov...

    5 min

  7. 5 DAYS AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - March 1, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: DISCOVERY CENTER SHOOTING: Amarillo Police are investigating a second shooting in one month at the Discovery Center parking lot. The latest incident occurred over the weekend near a playground area, leaving blood stains in the parking lot. As of Sunday, no arrests have been made and the incident remains an active investigation [1][2][5]. DRUG CHASE: A woman tossed a duffle bag of methamphetamine out of a car window during a high-speed police chase from Claude to Amarillo. Court documents obtained by ABC 7 detail the incident [1][2]. INDICTMENT: A Potter County grand jury has indicted Antonio Rotramel, 45, of Amarillo for online solicitation after he was accused of trying to have sex with an 11-year-old girl [1][2]. WORLD NEWS IMPACT: US-Israeli strikes on Iran have resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. Tens of thousands of air travelers are stranded worldwide as Middle Eastern airports closed following the attacks. The U.S. State Department warns Americans to exercise increased caution [4][5]. Weather: Current conditions show temperatures at 46-47°F with a warming trend ahead. Monday is forecasted to reach 75°F and Tuesday 82°F [3][5]. WILDFIRE PREVENTION: Heavy grass and drying winds have prompted controlled burns to reduce wildfire risk near the Amarillo airport and refinery. Residents in affected areas should stay alert to burn operations and follow local guidance [1][2]. Events: WWII VETERAN BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: Charles Elliot, a resident of the Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home and WWII veteran, turns 100 on March 4. He has requested 100 birthday cards for his 100th birthday. Cards can be sent to the veterans home to help celebrate this milestone [1]

    3 min

  8. 6 DAYS AGO

    Amarillo Texas Local News - February 28, 2026

    Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: WHO: Oscar Fernandez Jr., 19, and Antonio Rotramel, 45 [4]. WHAT: A Potter County grand jury has issued indictments in two separate cases involving crimes against children. Fernandez is accused of injury to a child for allegedly breaking a child's leg with his bare hands. Rotramel was indicted for online solicitation of a minor for allegedly attempting to have sex with an 11-year-old girl [4]. WHERE: Potter County, Amarillo, Texas [4]. WHEN: Indictments were reported on February 27, 2026 [4]. Weather: Residents should prepare for elevated fire weather conditions this week. Heavy grass and drying winds have prompted local authorities to conduct controlled burns to reduce wildfire risks near the airport and local refineries [4]. A webinar on wildfire prevention and property protection is also being promoted to help residents prepare for the upcoming dry season [2]. In the event of high wind warnings or red flag alerts, residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning and secure loose outdoor items [2][4]. Events: Boyce-Sneed Feud Presentation Time/Place: West Texas A&M University (WT), February 25-28, 2026 [3]. Price: Generally free to the public/students [3]. Importance: A descendant of a key figure in the famous Boyce-Sneed Feud will speak, providing a rare historical perspective on one of the Panhandle's most notorious historical conflicts [3]. local business: HomeTowne Studios Amarillo West Red Roof has officially opened this 54-room extended-stay property at 6800 I-40 West. The facility features renovated rooms with full kitchens and is part of a dual-branded site with the Red Roof Inn Amarillo West [1]. General Office Supply 75th Anniversary Date/Time: Celebration and ribbon cutting held at their local office [2]. Details: The event features a history of the company, product displays from Steelcase, and food from Yolo’s Food Truck to mark seven and a half decades of service in Amarillo [2]. school: Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA): Over 600 applications have been submitted from the Amarillo...

    3 min
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About

The Amarillo 5 is the premiere local news podcast for Amarillo TX. Get all your local daily news in 5 minutes or less. We cover daily weather, local events, crime reporting, local politics, local business and more. Look for a new episode at 5:30 am every morning.

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  • Creator
    Mind Arc Media
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Mind Arc Media