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Avian flu investigation: 300+ dead birds collected across Amarillo. Test results expected next week. Avoid sick/dead birds.
Amarillo health officials are investigating a significant avian flu situation after city workers collected 300-350 dead birds over recent days. The birds were discovered primarily at McDonald Lake in John Stiff Park, with 239 dead geese and ducks collected on Sunday alone. Several birds were found alive but actively dying and required euthanasia. Test results are expected next week, and officials urge residents to avoid sick or dead birds and monitor for flu-like symptoms or pink eye in themselves and pets. No human or other animal cases have been reported as of Tuesday [1][2][3].
A man accused of robbing a Walgreens pharmacy in Amarillo, allegedly stealing a garbage bag full of prescription drugs, pleaded not guilty in federal court [1]. Meanwhile, a teenager arrested in connection with a Discovery Center parking lot shooting was denied bond after police say he fired multiple shots with an AR-style rifle [1][3].
The Potter County grand jury has "no-billed" a roommate involved in a fatal October trailer fire, meaning they chose not to indict [1]. In another legal development, Tifany Adams was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to her role in the murders of two Kansas women whose bodies were found buried in a freezer [1][2].
Amarillo is experiencing unseasonably warm conditions with Thursday's high at 43°F and temperatures expected to rise to 68°F on Friday and 71°F on Saturday. However, forecasters indicate a storm system may bring precipitation next week, potentially changing the current mild pattern [1].
Amarillo has been selected as one of five official "satellite" locations across Route 66 for the Centennial Kick-off celebration. This designation provides an unprecedented special event opportunity for the city, with more details expected as the centennial approaches [1].
Amarillo Little Theatre is currently presenting "Jersey Boys," a jukebox musical that gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the real lives of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The production aims to leave audiences thinking "Oh, what a night" [1][2].
The Texas Panhandle Peace Officers Association recently hosted its regular meeting to provide updates to local law enforcement agencies, representing continued coordination among regional public safety officials [1].
Fulton Drive just east of Bell Street is temporarily closed between Holiday Drive and Harmony Street as part of the Ridgecrest neighborhood development. The closure, expected through Friday, February 6, is to allow installation of a water main serving the new development. Eastbound traffic is detoured at Holiday Drive and westbound traffic is detoured southbound at Harmony Street [1].
Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport has launched a new prepaid parking program, giving travelers another convenient option for parking their vehicles [1].
Rudy's "Country Store" and Bar-B-Q has launched its Special Edition Pink "Cup for a Cause" campaign to support Panhandle Breast Health [1].
Amarillo National Bank released its annual 2026 economic forecast, predicting steady growth for Amarillo's economy with increased construction wages. However, the bank anticipates some uncertainty about higher electricity prices and water usage stemming from AI data centers expected to drive construction sector growth [1][2].
The Amarillo College board has filled roles formerly held by John Betancourt after his DWI arrest and suspension. Betancourt had been suspended from committees pending resolution of the suspected DWI arrest [1][2].
West Texas A&M and Texas Southern University won a $2 million federal grant to promote civics instruction, representing a significant educational investment for the region [1].
Local business leaders describe Amarillo's housing market as stable with 741 homes currently on the market. While the market is flat, it is not declining, and the economy remains stable as data center expansion continues across Texas. Experts note the Panhandle is unlikely to experience housing price spikes seen in other parts of the state [2][4].
The Amarillo Children's Home received a $40,000 grant from Parkhill to purchase a new 12-passenger van, supporting their transportation needs for children in their care [1].
Amarillo leaders dedicated the city's first Safe Haven Baby Box at a fire station. Already, one newborn has been surrendered in the box during freezing winter conditions in what officials called "an act of pure love" [1][2].
A Potter County landowner has expressed concern about newly proposed Xcel Energy infrastructure, highlighting ongoing discussions about utility development in the region [1].
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 5:00 am every morning.