CUERO, TX (July 4, 2025) – A quiet Fourth of July morning turned tragic in Cuero when an elderly woman was struck and killed by a vehicle while out on her routine walk near the intersection of E. Morgan Avenue and Stockdale Street.
Photo by Pat Trevino – July 4, 2025 Cuero, Texas – Morgan St.
The incident occurred shortly before 9:00 a.m. in the 305 E. Morgan block. Witnesses from the neighborhood told reporters that the woman was known for taking morning walks in the area. Emergency responders arrived at the scene quickly and blocked off the roadway. Upon arrival, Cuero Online News observed that the woman’s body was already covered. While several emergency vehicles were present, it was not immediately clear which vehicle was involved, and there appeared to be no visible questioning of any individuals at the time.
Sources with knowledge of the incident confirmed that a male driver involved in the collision contacted police to report an accident. However, no name or further identifying information about the driver has been released and it is unclear whether any charges will be filed.
Community members have since shared that the victim may have been deaf or partially deaf, which may have contributed to her vulnerability near roadways. Her identity has not yet been released publicly as officials work to notify her family.
Photo by Pat Trevino – July 4, 2025, Cuero, Tx. Morgan St.
The intersection remained closed for a time as authorities conducted an investigation. The exact circumstances and potential contributing factors to the crash have not yet been detailed in any official statement.
This is a developing story, and Cuero Online News will provide verified updates as they become available.
(Change made to story for clarity: While several emergency vehicles were present… 7/4/2025 @ 1:36 pm)
(Change made to story: Remove blurred photo and replaced it with a photo taken at the scene. Request from family member – 7/4/2025 @5:40pm)
CUERO, TX (July 4, 2025) – As heavy rainfall affects much of the Hill Country and San Antonio area this Independence Day, the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management and Floodplain Administration is keeping a close eye on flood conditions and water levels—reassuring residents that local river activity remains normal.
According to the latest data shared by Floodplain Administrator Billy Jordan, Canyon Lake is currently measured at 877.87 feet, which stands 31.13 feet below its typical pool level of 909 feet. While upstream rainfall is expected to increase inflows into the lake and surrounding rivers in the coming days, officials say there are no immediate concerns for DeWitt County.
“This isn’t cause for alarm, but it’s important that our community remains aware,” posted Jordan. “We’re watching the forecast, and our thoughts are with those upstream already impacted by high water and flooding.”
Local emergency officials urge residents to stay informed as the situation develops. They recommend taking a few proactive steps in case conditions shift closer to home: review your emergency plan, check supplies, and monitor official weather and safety updates over the holiday weekend.
With the July Fourth celebrations in full swing, residents are reminded to use caution around rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas where water levels can change unexpectedly.
DeWitt County’s emergency management team will provide additional updates as needed through official channels. For more information and preparedness resources, visit the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management and Floodplain Administration online at:
🔗 https://www.co.dewitt.tx.us/page/dewitt.Emergency
As of July 1, 2025, Texas has officially retired its paper license plates, ushering in a new era of metal plate issuance at the point of sale—a sweeping change brought about by . Signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023, the bill aims to crack down on widespread fraud and criminal misuse of temporary paper tags.
Why HB 718 Was Needed
For years, Texas law enforcement agencies and transportation officials raised alarms about the rampant abuse of paper license plates, which were easily forged and sold illegally online. These counterfeit tags were often used to:
Evade tolls and registration fees
Conceal stolen or unsafe vehicles
Obstruct law enforcement investigations
Facilitate crimes such as carjackings and robberies
What the Law Changes
Under HB 718, all licensed Texas car dealers must now issue metal license plates at the time of sale. Temporary paper tags are no longer permitted. Instead, buyers will receive one of several color-coded metal plates, depending on their situation:
These plates are tracked through the webDEALER system, ensuring each tag is tied to a verified buyer and vehicle.
Cost and Compliance
Metal plates cost $10 and replace the former 30-day and one-trip permits
Dealers must maintain an inventory of plates and issue them immediately upon sale
Buyers must keep their purchase receipt in the vehicle until their registration sticker arrives
A Win for Public Safety
Law enforcement officials have praised the law as a major step toward reducing vehicle-related crime. By eliminating the anonymity of paper tags, HB 718 enhances traceability and accountability on Texas roads.
What Drivers Should Know
If you buy a car from a Texas dealer after July 1, you’ll leave with metal plates already installed
Paper tags are no longer valid after their expiration date
Private vehicle sales are not affected—sellers must still remove their plates and file a transfer notice
In the age of artificial intelligence and predictive policing, the line between national security and civil liberty is growing dangerously thin. At the center of this debate stands Palantir Technologies, a data analytics firm whose software is now deeply embedded in U.S. immigration enforcement—and poised to expand into local law enforcement across the country.
From Immigration to Infiltration
Palantir’s latest contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a $30 million initiative called ImmigrationOS, a platform that gives ICE “near real-time visibility” into the lives of immigrants and their families. It integrates biometric data, financial records, travel patterns, and even social media activity to build detailed profiles of individuals, many of whom have not committed any crime.
While Palantir claims it does not conduct deportations, its tools are used to identify, track, and facilitate the removal of undocumented individuals, often sweeping in U.S. citizens connected to them. In Mississippi, for example, Palantir’s software was used in mass workplace raids that separated hundreds of families.
The Risk of Expansion
What happens when this technology—originally designed for counterterrorism and immigration enforcement—is handed to local police departments?
Documents show that Palantir’s platforms are already being used by state and local agencies to share license plate data, DMV records, and arrest histories with federal authorities. In sanctuary cities, this has allowed ICE to bypass local protections and detain individuals as they leave jails or attend court hearings.
If expanded further, this infrastructure could be used to monitor political activists, journalists, or anyone deemed “suspicious” by a future administration. The same tools that track undocumented immigrants today could be used to suppress dissent tomorrow.
As one protester in Palo Alto put it:
“Today, Palantir and the Trump administration are targeting immigrants. Tomorrow, it’ll be anyone who disagrees with the MAGA agenda. The day after that it will be anyone who disagrees with whoever is in power.”
No One Is Safe
The danger isn’t just theoretical. Palantir’s CEO has admitted that the company’s software is used “on occasion to kill people” in military operations. And leaked documents show that ICE agents use Palantir’s mobile apps to scan fingerprints, extract phone data, and track family relationships in the field.
This level of surveillance—once the stuff of dystopian fiction—is now a reality. And if it falls into the wrong hands, or is abused by corrupt officials, it could be used to destroy families, silence critics, and erode the very freedoms it claims to protect.
Profiting from Deportation
Adding fuel to the fire is the fact that high-ranking political officials are financially invested in Palantir’s success.
Stephen Miller, Trump’s Deputy Chief of Staff and architect of the mass deportation agenda, owns up to $250,000 in Palantir stock.
At least 11 other White House officials hold shares in the company.
Members of Congress—including Rep. James Comer (R-KY) and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA)—have also traded Palantir stock in recent months.
These financial ties raise serious ethical concerns. When lawmakers and executive officials profit from the very surveillance systems they help expand, the incentive to protect civil liberties disappears.
Trump’s Deputy Chief of Staff and architect of the mass deportation agenda, owns up to $250,000 in Palantir stock.
A Call for Oversight—and a Line in the Sand
Palantir insists it is not building a “master database” and that its tools are used within legal boundaries. But history tells us that surveillance powers are rarely rolled back—and often abused. From COINTELPRO to PRISM, the U.S. has repeatedly turned its tools inward, targeting the very people it claims to protect.
The passage of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” would be a turning point—and not for the better.
This bill doesn’t just unlock funding for defense and AI infrastructure; it gives agencies like ICE and their tech partners a green light to expand surveillance deeper into American life—into schools, courthouses, workplaces, and eventually our neighborhoods.
Once this infrastructure spreads to local law enforcement—as it’s poised to do—families across this country, especially in vulnerable or marginalized communities, could find themselves pulled into the dragnet with no warning and no recourse.
This is not just about immigration. It’s about total access to our lives. And it’s why this bill must not pass.
Because in a world where data is power, no one is truly safe.
YOAKUM, TX — On Saturday, June 28, women from across the region gathered at The Gin, a newly opened venue in Yoakum, for the inaugural Refresh Women’s Conference — a free, faith-filled event designed to Refocus, Renew, Restore, and ultimately Refresh the hearts and minds of attendees.
Contributed photo – Women’s Conference Yoakum, Tx June 2025
Organized by Sisters of Strength, a diverse Christian women’s group founded by Sonya Jones, the conference welcomed women from all denominations and walks of life. The event was rooted in the message of Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
From 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., attendees experienced a powerful lineup of worship, prayer, and testimony. The atmosphere was one of unity and spiritual revival, as churches came together to praise as one body — transcending denominational lines in celebration of a shared faith in Jesus Christ.
Contributed photo – Pictured is SharDae Walters @ Women’s Conference Yoakum, Tx June 2025
💗 A Sea of Pink and a Spirit of Grace
Guests were encouraged to wear any shade of pink, creating a vibrant and joyful visual that matched the event’s uplifting tone. A meal was provided, and the event remained entirely free of charge — a reflection of the group’s mission to serve without expectation.
Contributed photo – Women’s Conference Yoakum, Tx June 2025
🕊️ Healing Through Shared Experience
One of the most impactful moments came during a grief session led by a speaker from the ministry Picking Up the Pieces, offering comfort and connection to women navigating loss. Many attendees shared heartfelt testimonials about how the conference had touched their lives and renewed their faith.
Contributed photo – Women’s Conference Yoakum, Tx June 2025
“This conference was born out of prayer,” said organizer SharDae Walters. “We believed God wanted us to refocus our attention on Him so He could begin the restoration process in our lives. And that’s exactly what happened — women left refreshed and empowered.”
Contributed photo – Women’s Conference Yoakum, Tx June 2025
For more information about Sisters of Strength or future events, contact SharDae Walters at 361-212-3846.
VICTORIA: Juanita Dell Edwards, 87, passed away peacefully Monday, June 30, 2025. She was born October 7, 1937, in Hallettsville to Hubert Vernon Long and Myrtle Ruth (Harold) Long.
Juanita was born into a large, loving family with ten siblings, and from the beginning, family remained the cornerstone of her life. She was feisty, strong-willed, and embraced life with joy and determination.
She shared 48 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, Walter “Glen” Edwards, until his passing in 2020.
Juanita was a talented seamstress, a gifted cook, and found joy in fishing, camping, and hosting family gatherings. She had an ear for all kinds of music, loved the thrill of a good rodeo, and delighted in people-watching. Ever enchanted by the magic of Hollywood, she admired its glamour and sparkle with wide-eyed wonder.
Survivors are her daughter, Bobbie Sue Green and husband Pete of Victoria; 6 grandchildren, Theresa Poff (Chris), Larry Castellow (Christy), Chase House (Elizabeth), Nikki Booher (Logan), Christopher House (Stephanie) and Nicholas House; 10 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren; 5 siblings, Lanell Ryland of Old Ocean, Vernon Long Of Yoakum, Margie Friedel of Yoakum, Billy Long (Susie) of Gonzales and Wesley Long (Tammie) of Montgomery; special family, Chris Green (Connie), Vickie Fric (Daniel), Karlleen Helweg and Dan Infante; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.
Preceded in death by her parents, husband, Glen Edwards; sons, Robert Murray House in 2008 and Michael Walter House in 2012; sisters, Shirley Fuller, Wanda Williams and Lynda Long; brothers, Kenneth Long and Leon Long.
Visitation 1 to 2 p.m. with Funeral Service at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Pastor Daniele McFarland officiating. Burial to follow at Hochheim Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Dylan Castellow, Charlie Castellow, Chris Green, Theresa Poff, Chris Poff, Holly Long, and Joe Castellow.
The family wishes to thank the “earth angels” of Harbor Hospice, Misty, Brianna, Plachette, Tina and Carrie who took the finest care of our Mom.
CUERO — Ongoing scrutiny surrounds the DeWitt County Appraisal District (DCAD) following recent claims of staffing changes and the reported involvement of outside consultants.
Earlier this week, Cuero Online News reported on these changes and the presence of outside auditors at the DeWitt County Appraisal District, citing a tip from a reliable source. At the time, no official statements had been issued, and multiple calls to district leadership had gone unanswered.
After our June 28, article, our follow up question to the district was met with denial by the district citing no knowledge of what we had reported. However, when confronted with additional, unpublished information substantiating the tip, the district spokesperson swiftly reversed course — confirming that an individual had, in fact, been terminated. The spokesperson declined to provide further details, citing the matter as confidential and personnel-related.
While confidentiality around employee matters is understandable, the lack of transparency has stirred renewed concern among taxpayers.
“When staffing changes occur within the very office responsible for assessing our property values, the public has a right to ask whether those values remain accurate and equitable,” one resident said. “We’re not asking for names — we’re asking whether our appraisals are still being handled in a way that’s fair and in line with state standards.”
Another taxpayer reported issues with the assessed value of their property following a sudden and significant increase. Upon further investigation, they discovered that a neighboring structure — a shop or outbuilding — had been mistakenly included in their property assessment. As of this writing, the error had not yet been corrected, and the individual was still awaiting reimbursement and removal of the misattributed value from their record.
To date, neither the Appraisal Review Board, outside auditing firms, nor DCAD leadership have issued formal statements on the termination or its potential implications. Cuero Online News continues to seek verification and balanced comment from all involved parties.
Property owners and residents are encouraged to monitor updates and participate in public hearings when available. Transparency and accountability remain critical — not only for maintaining public trust, but for ensuring property assessments withstand legal and financial scrutiny.
Cuero Online News will provide further coverage as new details become available.
Dianne Rose Moore, “Aunt Di”, 74, of Yorktown passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday, June 29, 2025. She was born January 4, 1951 in Yorktown to Eli and Pauline Machost Saunders. Dianne was a nurse for many years and owner of Aunt Di’s Kountry Kitchen for the last 20 years.
She is survived by her husband Norvan Moore, Children: Charles “Bo” Kinsey, Dawn (Norman) Meighen, Tommy (Rhonda) Moore, Sheila (Scott) Thomas, Cheryl Rogers, Lisa (Guy) Young, grandchildren; Kevin and Dillon Kinsey, Brian and Marcus Leshore, T.J Moore, Cassandra Dixon, Brandi Jordan, Billy Rogers Jr., Bethanie Rogers, Levi Rogers, Brandon Moore, Ricky Reeder, and Melanie Reeder and 25 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings Sandy (Odell) Johnson, Bonnie Kellis, sister-in-law’s Sandy Saunders, Rita Saunders, and Mary Lee Saunders. She also had many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives that will miss her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, step-father Pete Waits, sons John, Douglas, and David Danks, sister Shirley (Norris) Schultz, brothers David, George and Dennis Saunders.
Visitation 5-7 pm Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Massey Funeral Home. Funeral service 10 am Thursday, July 3, 2025 at Massey Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Westside Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Kevin Kinsey, Dillon Kinsey, TJ Moore, Cassandra Dixon, Brandi Jordan, and Marcus Leshore. Honorary pallbearers are Brandon Moore, Rickey Reeder, Melanie Reeder, Brian Leshore, Billy Rogers Jr., Bethanie Rogers and Levi Rogers.
Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.
YOAKUM: Thomas Peter Linn, age 85, passed away Monday, June 30, 2025. He was born May 2, 1940 in Crawford County, Pennsylvania to Peter and Blanche Brady Linn.
He worked in Law enforcement for 27 years and the last years as chief of the Yoakum Police Department. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was a member of the Yoakum American Legion. He enjoyed animals and was a gun enthusiast.
Survivors: sons, Tommy Linn, Jr (Dana) and Ricky Linn (Nellie); grandchildren, Ethan Linn (Jessica), Kerry Linn (Makenzi), Jacob Linn (Bethanie), Kaleb Linn and Emersen Linn along with one great-grandchild, Granger Thomas Linn.
Preceded in death by: parents; wife, Emily Garcia Linn and eight siblings.
A private funeral service will be held. Burial at Yoakum Restland Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be given to Pet Adoptions of Cuero or National Kidney Foundation.
