Lidia Herrera
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Reporter with KIII 3News covering stories in the Coastal Bend community.
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Articles by Lidia Herrera
Family of Brownsville crash victim plans to start foundation to cover funeral expenses for others
Brownsville, TX (KRGV) — The family of a 24-year-old man is working to start a foundation in his honor after Brownsville police say a driver accused of being intoxicated hit and killed him on Tuesday. Daniel Morin's family remembers him as a loving young man. “Daniel was an amazing young man who had a bright future ahead of him. He was a loving and caring brother, son, uncle, and brother-in-law,” Rodolfo Morin, Daniel's brother, said.
From grief to advocacy: Family of Brownsville crash victim plan to start foundation to help cover funeral expenses for others
Brownsville, TX (KRGV) — The family of a 24-year-old man is working to start a foundation in his honor after Brownsville police say a driver accused of being intoxicated hit and killed him on Tuesday. Daniel Morin's family remembers him as a loving young man. “Daniel was an amazing young man who had a bright future ahead of him. He was a loving and caring brother, son, uncle, and brother-in-law,” Rodolfo Morin, Daniel's brother, said.
SpaceX launches raise home damage questions for Cameron County residents
Port Isabel, TX (KRGV) — LabPadre says it needs more tests before deciding whether SpaceX launches are damaging homes in Port Isabel and South Padre Island. Balderma Alaniz has lived in his house for more than 50 years. He lives less than 10 miles from the SpaceX Boca Chica launch site and says he has concerns. "And you can see the cracks, right there and you can see the broken pipe inside the house," Alaniz said.
FAA reviewing SpaceX proposal for nearly 500 annual Starship launches from Starbase
Starbase, TX (KRGV) — The Federal Aviation Administration opened a public review of SpaceX's plan to increase launches at the Boca Chica Launch Site from 25 a year to as many as 456. A notice on the proposal was published Wednesday. In the notice, the FAA said it will prepare an environmental impact statement and opened a public scoping period on the plan. The proposal would also raise the limit from 50 landings a year to 912.
Edinburg breaks ground on new detention pond
Edinburg, TX (KRGV) — Edinburg crews broke ground Tuesday on the final phase of a flood prevention project with a new detention pond near South Veterans Boulevard and Alberta Road. The $760,000 project is part of a bond approved by voters. "This area for a long time has felt overlooked, and so this is a great investment by the city to make sure that this neighborhood is protected as well," Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa said.
Heart of the Valley: Breast cancer survivor helps others stay active
Breast cancer survivor Norma Gracia now helps others stay active through Stronger Together Cancer Support, the group she founded after her diagnosis. The American Cancer Society estimates more than 321,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year. "So I was in the best shape of my life, 19 time marathoner getting ready to try to qualify for Boston," Gracia said.
Brownsville park uses 500-gallon rain barrels to water green spaces
Brownsville, TX (KRGV) — Rain barrels at Monte Bella Park in Brownsville are capturing rainwater and using it to irrigate the park. The Cameron County Master Gardeners, a nonprofit organization, placed the barrels at the park with the help of a county grant. The barrels were installed about 10 years ago and have collected water ever since. Each barrel holds up to 500 gallons of rainwater. Over the years, more people have become interested in having rain barrels at their own homes.
Port Isabel festival returns for first time in 41 years with schedule shift
Port Isabel festival returns for first time in 41 years with schedule shift Port Isabel, TX (KRGV) — Queen Isabella Days is returning to Port Isabel for the first time in 41 years, but weather is pushing part of the schedule. The car show and the antique and flea market were originally set for this weekend. Both events are now being held next Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, at the same times. Events will run every day beginning Monday. The festival last took place in 1985.
Edinburg roofing company offers free tarp installs ahead of incoming rain
Pharr, TX (KRGV) — An Edinburg roofing company is offering free tarp installations to homeowners with damaged roofs ahead of incoming rain. Arely and Erick Arellano, owners of Quality Home Innovations, are working to help as many people as possible before the incoming weekend rain arrives. "It's important to prepare beforehand because again, any little leak can cause damage all the way down to your foundation," Arely Arellano said. Arely says roof repairs can be costly.
Edinburg unveils plans for new day-use campsite near Vackar Stadium
Edinburg, TX (KRGV) — Edinburg is getting a new campsite at Edinburg Municipal Park, near the Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium. The campsite will be located near the trail and will include a gated area with spaces families can reserve. "We're going to have some benches here, a fire pit, a couple of barbecue pits as well, some lighting for the evenings, a lot of benches, and it's a large enough area so you can hang out with family," Edinburg Parks and Recreation Director Javier Garza said.
Edinburg extends sandbag distribution efforts
Edinburg, TX (KRGV) — The city of Edinburg is distributing sandbags to residents and local businesses, with the effort extended through Friday, Oct. 2, 2026. The distribution is taking place at the service center at 1201 N. Doolittle Road. Crews are working to give out 1,000 pre-filled sandbags through a drive-thru-style setup and will load the bags into vehicles upon arrival. Edinburg residents may receive up to six sandbags per household. Local businesses may receive up to eight sandbags.
Sandcastle Days sculptors race to protect artwork from incoming rain on South Padre Island
South Padre Island, TX (KRGV) — Sandcastle Days is underway on South Padre Island, but rain in the forecast has sculptors and organizers working to protect their creations. Sand sculptors are racing to finish their work as wet weather moves into the area. Organizers are using a spray-on solution to help shield the sculptures from moisture. "We spray them, and that just puts a crust like an M&M candy coating.
Port Aransas Recreation Center set to be completed in November Original
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — A new building will soon be serving the Port Aransas community. The Port Aransas Recreation Center is in the final stretch of construction, and community leaders say it will be a place both residents and visitors can enjoy. Director of Parks and Recreation Colleen Simpson said years of hard work are finally paying off. This story continues below. More in Community "The community has been discussing a recreation center for over a decade.
‘It lifted me up’: Reopened senior center changes lives in Aransas Pass
ARANSAS PASS, Texas — Nearly 10 years after Hurricane Harvey damaged a vital gathering place for seniors in Aransas Pass, the city is celebrating a major comeback. The local senior center has officially reopened its doors to the community, something Lonnie Brigmon said means people like him have somewhere to belong again. "I finally figured I needed some friends there, you know. I was sitting in that house alone there for a long time," Brigmon said.
South Texas feels pinch as beef prices climb to record highs
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Meat prices are at an all-time high due to drought conditions and a shortage in beef supply, making it tough to keep up with demand across the country. Locally, customers aren’t the only ones feeling it. Farmers and butchers say these are the highest meat prices they’ve seen in years. They’re hopeful things will improve once the drought ends but say it could still take some time. Terry Moench is the co-owner of Moody’s Quality Meats in Corpus Christi.
Strong winds uprooted tree in Corpus Christi neighborhood Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — As the storm passed through the area, Carlos Torres and his family never imagined something bad would happen at home. "Just a bunch of loud thunder and, you know, lightning and a big one hit and you know we sometimes feel even like the floor shake and stuff so that's we just thought it was that," Torres said. A 25-foot tree was uprooted by the winds, damaging a storage unit and a trampoline. "I just bought my kids a new trampoline.
More than 10,000 without power across the Coastal Bend Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — More than 10,000 outages reported as storms pass through the Coastal Bend Saturday afternoon.
EXCLUSIVE FIRST LOOK: The Free Store plans for inclusive free community shower open to all Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A local nonprofit is stepping up to meet a growing need in Corpus Christi with a community shower in the works. The Free Store is expanding its services with a new project designed to help some of the community’s most vulnerable residents. The organization hopes to offer free showers to anyone who needs them — giving people not just access to hygiene, but also dignity and support.
Alice residents face persistent flooding as crews work on solutions Original
ALICE, Texas — The city of Alice also felt the storm as heavy rain poured in early Thursday morning. Adan Perez has lived on the same street for nearly seven years. He said flooding is a common issue in this area. "Oh, it gets really bad. Uh, this whole area, this whole intersection right here, it's, I'm saying underwater probably a good 3 feet," Perez said.
Officials warn of potential flooding and high winds at beaches this Memorial Day weekend
PADRE ISLAND, Texas — As thousands make plans to head to the beach this Memorial Day weekend, there is concern about the possibility of heavy rain and even potential flooding. Nueces County Coastal Parks Director Scott Cross said flooding from high tides or storms impacts the beaches. "There's really not much we can do. I mean, this is gonna happen all the way through the weekend," Cross said.
Port Aransas prepares for food truck influx as new state law eases permit rules
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Food Trucks could soon be rolling into Port Aransas due to a state law, The Mobile Food Vendor Regulatory Consistency Act taking effect on July 1st. The new statewide law is allowing food trucks to operate across Texas using a single permit instead of applying and paying for separate permits in every city or county. Now, Port Aransas officials are working to finalize local rules that could soon open the door for more food trucks in the city.
Circles of the Coastal Bend expands into Gregory to help families break the cycle of poverty
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A program aimed at helping families break the cycle of poverty is expanding into Gregory. Circles of the Coastal Bend is launching a new chapter in the city, bringing mentorship, resources and long-term support to residents in need. Back in 2024, the first Circles of the Coastal Bend chapter was established in Corpus Christi. The new Gregory location now becomes the second chapter in Texas.
Corpus Christi sophomore student aims to make Beach to Bay history as first wheelchair racer
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Preparations for the Beach to Bay Relay Marathon are underway, and this weekend, a paraplegic athlete will take part in the race. Thousands of runners are set to hit the streets for the annual Beach to Bay Relay Marathon, including Sara Flores, a sophomore at Veterans Memorial High School who is breaking barriers and inspiring others along the way. But she's not just taking part — she's making history before the race even begins.
Mariachi Nuevo Viajero brings heartfelt Mother’s Day serenades with sacrifice and tradition Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — From honoring family traditions to remembering loved ones who are no longer here, the music meant so much more than just the songs being played. But while Mariachi Nuevo Viajero spends the day helping other families celebrate, that often means time away from their own — a sacrifice they’re proud to make. A surprise serenata brought tears to Terri Siguer as memories of her father, Antonio Pena, rushed back to her. “They used to do that on Mother’s Day also.
Kingsville Animal Control expands services with new facility Original
KINGSVILLE, Texas — Kingsville Animal Control is entering a new era with its state-of-the-art facility at its annual spring services event Saturday morning. The event brought in a large crowd looking for vaccinations and microchipping services, including pet owner Yvonne Briseno, who has not one but two dogs — Lolita and Gizmo. “It’s free and, uh, it helps them, keeps them healthy. These are my babies. I do anything for them,” Briseno said.
Corpus Christi proposes increased water usage limits and surcharges amid drought plan changes
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — During the water briefing, Corpus Christi city manager rolled out a few changes to the city's drought contingency plan that city council will vote on next Tuesday. Zanoni said the plan will always keep its focus on residential customers. That's why the city is recommending these changes especially raising the amount of water customers can use. Officials said the average customer uses about 4,500 gallons a month while nearly 30% of customers go over 5,250 gallons.
Boating industry urges policy change as Corpus Christi considers water use limits amid drought plan Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Boat community members gathered for a meeting with city officials to voice concerns over water limits tied to the drought contingency plan. In Nueces County, there are about 8,000 registered boats, and nearly 40 fishing tournaments brought in tens of millions of dollars last year. Now, the boating community says it is fighting for reasonable water limits that will not hurt the industry.
Hurricane Season weeks away — Officials urge preparation now
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The start of hurricane season is less than a month away, and this week emergency agencies from across the Coastal Bend have gathered for the annual hurricane conference. The conference focuses on getting the region ready for the worst-case scenario if a powerful storm were to move through the area. Emergency Management Coordinator for Corpus Christi Jace Johnson said hurricane preparedness is something they focus on year-round.
Pearl Harbor sailor Clyde McMeans finally laid to rest 84 years later Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A Pearl Harbor sailor is finally laid to rest at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery after being killed 84 years ago. Navy Petty Officer Clyde McMeans’ remains were identified more than 84 years after he was killed in the attack on Pearl Harbor. McMeans was serving aboard the battleship USS California when Japanese forces launched the surprise attack on Dec. 7, 1941. The ship was struck during the attack, and McMeans was among the sailors killed.
Del Mar College event cancellations due to safety concerns impact annual folklórico dance show
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Del Mar College has canceled all events scheduled at the Richardson Performance Hall on the Heritage Campus. May is typically packed with showcases, ceremonies and end-of-semester celebrations, making this a busy time on campus, but these events have been canceled due to a safety concern. Alcorta’s Compañía de Danza Folklórica was set to stage its spring production, “Inoviable,” this Friday. “All of our dancers were sad.
Del Mar College cancels Richardson Auditorium events after structural damage discovered
Del Mar College released a statement Thursday confirming the cancellation of events immediately at Richardson Auditorium after staff discovered fallen debris and cracking along the back wall of the stage area earlier this week. The college says the decision was made immediately out of an abundance of caution while officials assess the building’s condition and determine what repairs are needed.
Corpus Christi faces rising homelessness crisis as residents push for housing solutions
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — All eyes are on Corpus Christi as city officials navigate the ongoing water crisis, but another serious issue may be on the rise. Local residents are now turning their attention to homelessness, emphasizing that the need for housing has become more urgent than ever. From living on the streets to working at Mother Teresa Shelter, James Newton said having a home can make a big difference.
Corpus Christi faces rising homelessness crisis as residents push for housing solutions
All eyes are on Corpus Christi as city officials navigate the ongoing water crisis, but another serious issue may be on the rise. Local residents are now turning their attention to homelessness, emphasizing that the need for housing has become more urgent than ever. From living on the streets to working at Mother Teresa Shelter, James Newton said having a home can make a big difference.
More than a haircut: Corpus Christi barber spreading awareness of Autism Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A Corpus Christi barber is changing the way kids with autism experience haircuts — turning something that can feel scary and overwhelming into something fun and comfortable. By creating a calm, welcoming space and taking the time to connect with each child, he’s helping build trust one haircut at a time. For many families, like Angela Gonzalez, a simple haircut isn’t simple at all. "Like the black cape — she doesn’t want it to touch her — and then the sound of the scissors.
Corpus Christi's Buc Days Night Parade celebrates community, tradition, and generations of memories Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Thousands of people lined Leopard Street to get a look at this year's Buc Days Rally Night Parade. The parade kicked off celebrations for the week and a half long Buc Days festivities. Laurie Ufret is a proud Roy Miller High School graduate from 1989. She no longer lives in the area but travels thousands of miles to take part in the parade with her High Steppers alumni organization. "I've been marching since I was about 15 years old. It's a tradition," Ufret said.
Aransas County Courthouse launches new 'soft room' for survivors during trial
ROCKPORT, Texas — A new effort is underway at the Aransas County Courthouse that will bring comfort to victims in the local justice system. 'Furnishing Hope in Aransas County' is a community initiative that is in the process of creating a 'soft room' inside the courthouse. Cilinda Bogk is helping design the safe space for children and survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence during trial.
Aransas County Courthouse launches new 'soft room' for survivors during trial
'Furnishing Hope in Aransas County' is creating a 'soft room' at the courthouse to provide comfort to children and survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence during trial. The room will offer a safe space with activities and comfort items for both children and adult survivors, with a private hallway for added security. The initiative aims to provide safety and security to victims, helping them feel more at ease during a difficult time and beyond.
Ingleside and Aransas Pass feel water crisis consequences after declaring water emergency Original
ARANSAS PASS, Texas — Two Coastal Bend cities declared a water emergency Wednesday night as the regional water crisis continues. Aransas Pass and Ingleside join a growing list of communities feeling the impact of the ongoing water shortage. Residents in both cities are facing a race against time as their water supply slows to a trickle. Aransas Pass resident Leroy Theriot said while the city has declared a water emergency, it's a problem that should have been fixed a long time ago.
Port Aransas SandFest boosts local economy, attracts thousands with growing tradition
SandFest returns to Port Aransas, drawing thousands, boosting the local economy by millions and sparking excitement for its 30th anniversary next year. CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — SandFest returns to Port Aransas, bringing in tens of thousand of people and giving the local area an economic boost. Prepping, creating, and teamwork. Organizers said that is what SandFest is all about. And it's drawing more people every year.
Rockport scrambles to fix utility system bleeding $50K every month Original
ROCKPORT, Texas — As Corpus Christi works to tackle its ongoing water issues, nearby cities like Rockport are starting to feel the impact, too. The City Council is faced with finding a solution to its utilities system shortfall. $50,000 every month—that’s how much the city of Rockport is losing right now, and city leaders warn that number could keep climbing if they don’t act soon.
Port Aransas SandFest boosts local economy, attracts thousands with growing tradition
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — SandFest returns to Port Aransas, bringing in tens of thousand of people and giving the local area an economic boost. Prepping, creating, and teamwork. Organizers said that is what SandFest is all about. And it's drawing more people every year. President of SandFest Tim Parker said attendance keeps growing and with it - a boost to local economy. "It's definitely a huge impact to Port Aransas as well as the surrounding areas Corpus, Aransas Pass, stuff like that.
Nueces County Drainage District #2 secures $4 million grant for flooding projects Original
ROBSTOWN, Texas — Nueces County Drainage District No. 2 is getting a major funding boost for its flood projects after being awarded a $4 million grant. It’s no secret that rural communities like Robstown and Petronila are hit the hardest by flooding, but that’s about to change thanks to the grant. Steve Ray is a consultant with Nueces County Drainage District No. 2. He said they will now be able to finish much-needed projects that have been in the works for years.
'His time with us was far too short' Family grieves teen killed in Weber Road shooting Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A shooting Wednesday night resulted in the death of a teenager and now leaves a community grieving. Outside of Get Faded Barbershop, you can still see evidence of a shooting that took the life away of Jacob "JJ" Serna. Now, his family wants justice. "You never know, it could happen to anyone," JJ's aunt Viviana said. "It could be them here today, and not us. This has to stop.
Long-awaited murder trial begins in 2021 killing of Freer woman Original
SAN DIEGO, Texas — The murder trial of a Freer woman is now underway in Duval County, as jurors begin hearing the evidence behind a case that has taken years to reach the courtroom. Denise Godsey DeCoteau was killed on April 9, 2021. A year later, Luis Rodriguez was arrested in Bee County in connection with her death. Now, testimony has officially begun.
Sinton residents rally against Corpus Christi groundwater project over well water concerns
SINTON, Texas — The Sinton community gathered for a rally to voice their concerns about the Corpus Christi Evangeline groundwater project Saturday evening. More than two dozen locals drove to Welder Park to protest. Organizer Brent Casey said now more than ever, it’s important for the people in San Patricio County to come together and stand united. “I’m a rancher, and most of these people that showed up today are ranchers where we get our water at a 300-foot level.
New urgent care, clinic expansions aim to close healthcare gap in Aransas Pass
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A few healthcare developments are making their way to Aransas Pass, bringing more accessible and affordable services. Ever since the only hospital closed back in 2019, city leaders say they’ve been working to bring medical services back. But soon, residents won’t have to cross the bridge into Corpus Christi to get the care they need. Off Wheeler Street, locals will soon see a new urgent care facility under construction.
'People rely on these products' Hemp regulations paused as Texas court set to consider injunction Original
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A court hearing may determine the future of hemp businesses in Texas after a lawsuit filed earlier this week seeks to block new state regulations, including a ban on smokable hemp products and higher licensing fees. A coalition of hemp industry groups is supporting the lawsuit, which is led by the Texas Hemp Business Council against the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
1 Year Later: Families still rebuilding after Salt Flats Grassfire in Rockport Original
ROCKPORT, Texas — It's been a year since a grassfire in Rockport impacted the community, forever changing the lives of several families. For some, the rebuilding process hasn't been easy, but they're determined to keep moving forward. Even now, you can still see what the flames left behind—reminders of what was lost as the rebuilding process continues. Richard Kline lost not only his family's home but his sawmill business of 22 years.
Easter celebrations canceled due to rainy weather in Corpus Christi
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Early morning showers forced a major community Easter event to be canceled and sent others packing up early at local parks. But while the rain may have disrupted plans, it didn’t stop people from finding ways to celebrate. As the rain moved into the city, locals braved the storm to catch a glimpse of a special tradition. Longtime organizer Debra Scott-Brown said the Easter Sunrise Passion Play is a beloved event in Corpus Christi, now in its 84th year.
Coastal Bend bike community honors local icon 'Mr. Pointy Boots' with tribute ride
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Coastal Bend bike community came together for a special ride to honor one of Corpus Christi’s most recognizable and beloved residents — Ronnie Mathis, better known as “Mr. Pointy Boots.” Mathis passed away March 19 after a battle with stage 4 prostate cancer. Los Homies Bike Crew, Corpitos Cruzers and the Big Bertha Foundation organized the memorial ride at Water’s Edge Park.
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