Jessica Velez

Bureau Chief · Carrollton, TX

Jessica Velez has over 15 years of journalism experience, having previously worked at the Denton Record-Chronicle and NPR affiliate KERA. A graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington, her reporting focuses on grassroots initiatives and community activism in the Carrollton area.

12 stories from Jessica Velez in Carrollton

Police standoff in Farmers Branch, Texas, with officers surrounding a residential area.

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Multiple suspects wanted as North Texas police investigate robbery

On a quiet Friday night in Farmers Branch, a tense standoff unfolded, shaking the local community to its core. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sounds of sirens pierced the stillness, drawing residents from their homes to witness a scene that felt all too surreal. Neighbors watched in...

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Highway crash scene in Carrollton, Texas

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1 man killed after being ejected from vehicle in major crash, North Texas police say

On a quiet Tuesday afternoon in Carrollton, the stillness was shattered by the screeching of tires and the sound of metal colliding with metal. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with a major crash involving multiple commercial vehicles on westbound State Highway 183. The aftermath left a...

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Guests enjoying Six Flags Over Texas amusement park

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Six Flags Over Texas guests escorted off Titan roller coaster after fellow guest violates code of conduct, park says

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the bustling crowds at Six Flags Over Texas , the excitement was palpable. Families and thrill-seekers alike eagerly awaited their turn to experience the iconic Titan roller coaster, known for its breathtaking drops and exhilarating...

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Families celebrating Halloween in Carrollton with costumes and decorations.

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DFW Weather: Will this year's Halloween forecast be a trick or treat? We're tracking a Halloween rain chance.

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, families across Carrollton gather around kitchen tables, carefully planning their Halloween festivities. For many, it’s a cherished time of year, where costumes are crafted, pumpkins are carved, and excitement fills the air. But this year, the...

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Highland Park United Methodist Church during sunset

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Bishop removes Highland Park United Methodist Church leaders, appoints new pastor after church announces disaffiliation

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the quaint streets of Highland Park, a significant shift was unfolding within the community’s beloved Highland Park United Methodist Church. On a recent Sunday, church members gathered not just for worship, but to witness a pivotal...

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A vibrant outdoor dining area at Stonebriar Centre in Frisco, Texas, showcasing the new redevelopment.

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Stonebriar Centre in Frisco is getting a major redevelopment with outdoor space and dining

As the sun sets over Frisco, the once-familiar silhouette of Stonebriar Centre is poised for a remarkable transformation. Families, couples, and friends gather in the heart of the shopping center, their laughter mingling with the sounds of children playing nearby. The excitement is palpable, as...

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Voters at a polling location in Carrollton, Texas

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Busiest and least busy North Texas polling locations and hours

As the sun began to rise over Carrollton, Texas, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Residents were waking up, some with coffee in hand, preparing to make their voices heard at the polls. For many, voting is not just a civic duty; it’s a family tradition, a rite of passage, and a moment to...

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He confessed to killing his wife. Eight years later, Houston mother Jennifer Sanchez is still missing

As the sun dipped below the horizon in Carrollton, the air turned cool and the quiet streets echoed with the laughter of children playing outside. Yet, amidst this serene backdrop lies a heart-wrenching story that has gripped the community for years. Jennifer Sanchez, a beloved mother and wife,...

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A concerned community gathering to support the search for a missing girl.

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Endangered missing persons alert for 13-year-old girl in Dallas discontinued

In a heartwarming turn of events, the Carrollton community breathed a collective sigh of relief when news broke that 13-year-old Jasmine Rodriguez was safely located after being reported missing. Her disappearance on October 21 sent shockwaves through the local neighborhoods, igniting a fervent...

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A caring community comes together in support of a missing child.

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Missing 13-year-old safely located after week-long search, authorities say

In the quiet town of Carrollton, a community held its breath as the clock ticked on a week-long search for 13-year-old Natalie Armstrong . Her absence was felt deeply by friends, family, and neighbors alike, who rallied together in the hope of bringing her home safely. The emotional toll was...

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Families enjoying a sunny day in Wedgwood East park, symbolizing community spirit.

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Fort Worth selects Wedgwood East for $4.3 million neighborhood improvement program

On a sun-drenched Saturday morning, the residents of Wedgwood East gathered at the local park, their laughter mingling with the sound of children playing. This vibrant scene, filled with families enjoying the sun and each other’s company, is a testament to the strength of community bonds. But...

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A serene sky over Hicks Airfield, where the tragic plane crash occurred.

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NTSB report details what happened before a plane crashed north of Fort Worth, killing the pilot

On a crisp October afternoon, the skies around Hicks Airfield were clear and inviting, a perfect day for flying. But for the family and friends of John Unangst, that day turned tragic. The 67-year-old pilot, known for his adventurous spirit and love for aviation, lost his life in a plane crash that...

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