If you woke up today in El Paso, you probably felt that familiar dry chill in the air and maybe caught the smell of diesel and desert dust that defines mornings here. But beyond the weather, there’s a lot moving in the 915 right now. Honestly, it’s a heavy day for the city, particularly regarding the news coming out of the East Montana area.
The Camp East Montana Controversy Heats Up
The biggest story in news in El Paso Texas today is the grim update regarding a death at the Camp East Montana detention facility. You’ve probably seen the headlines floating around, but the details that emerged this Friday, January 16, are pretty disturbing.
Essentially, a 55-year-old Cuban man named Geraldo Lunas Campos died in custody earlier this month, but today we’re getting the official word from the El Paso County Medical Examiner. They are likely ruling it a homicide.
There is a massive divide between what the government says and what witnesses are claiming. ICE originally claimed Lunas Campos was "in distress" and later suggested it was a suicide attempt. However, an eyewitness account shared with the Associated Press tells a much darker story: guards allegedly tackled him and used a chokehold until he stopped breathing.
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Congresswoman Veronica Escobar didn't hold back today. She released a statement calling the $1.24 billion facility a "profit-making enterprise" and is once again demanding it be shut down. It's a mess, frankly. When you have a private facility funded by taxpayers where a medical examiner is looking at "asphyxia due to neck and chest compression," the local community starts asking some very hard questions about accountability.
Traffic Alerts: The International 10K and Bridge Closures
If you’re planning on crossing the bridge or even just driving through downtown this weekend, you need to listen up. CBP just confirmed that we’re going to see some significant lane closures tomorrow, January 17, for the International U.S.-Mexico 10K.
Basically, if you usually use the Stanton Street or Paso del Norte bridges, your Saturday morning is going to be a headache.
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- Paso del Norte (PDN): This bridge is basically going to be a no-go for vehicles from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. If you have a SENTRI pass, you’ll be rerouted to the Stanton/LERDO lane.
- Stanton Street: Only the easternmost lane will stay open for the race.
- The Pro Tip: If you aren't running the race and just need to get to Juárez for lunch or family, stick to the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) or the Ysleta Port of Entry. You'll thank me later.
Local Life: Senior Games and Culture
It’s not all heavy news, though. The city is officially opening registration for the 2026 El Paso Senior Games. This is actually a pretty big deal for our older community—it runs from February all the way through September. If you have a parent or grandparent who thinks they’re still a track star or a bowling pro, now’s the time to sign them up at any Parks and Recreation center.
Also, the Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC) just put out an open call for their Artist-in-Residence program. It’s a cool chance for local creators to get some funding and space to work right here in the heart of the city.
Weekend Vibes: What to Do
If you’re looking to get out of the house, there are a few things happening tonight and tomorrow:
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- El Paso Rhinos vs. Shreveport Mudbugs: Puck drops at 7:00 p.m. at the County Coliseum. It’s always a loud, good time.
- Ghost Tours: There’s a "Wraiths of the West Texas Wind" walking tour tonight at 8:00 p.m. starting on Mills Ave.
- Museums: The "Pasos Urbanos III" exhibition is open today until 6:00 p.m. if you want something a bit more low-key.
Actionable Insights for El Pasoans Today
Staying informed about news in El Paso Texas today means more than just reading the headlines; it’s about navigating the city effectively.
- Avoid Downtown Saturday Morning: Unless you’re running the 10K, stay away from the Stanton and PDN bridge areas between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. to avoid being trapped in race traffic.
- Check on Your Neighbors: With the recent "warming center" notices from the Office of Emergency Management, keep an eye on elderly neighbors as the desert temperatures dip tonight.
- Voice Your Opinion: If the Camp East Montana situation concerns you, the local offices for our Congressional representatives are the primary place to direct those concerns, as the facility operates under federal contract.
El Paso is a city that thrives on its connections—both across the border and within our own neighborhoods. While today’s news brings some difficult conversations to the forefront, the "Sun City" rhythm continues with the usual mix of grit and community spirit.
Next Steps for You:
Check your commute route for Saturday morning if you live near the border. If you're interested in the Senior Games, head over to the El Paso Parks and Recreation website to grab a registration form before the slots fill up. For those following the detention center investigation, keep an eye on the El Paso County Medical Examiner's public portal for the finalized autopsy report expected later this month.