Kayla Choates

2 months ago | 12newsnow.com | Sharinna Byrd |Kayla Choates

BEAUMONT, Texas — A Jefferson County program designed to educate teens about the criminal justice system is being recognized as a key strategy to combat youth crime. The initiative, known as the Judicial Academy, is making strides to empower young people by giving them a first-hand look at legal careers and the judicial process. Precinct 1 Place 1 Justice of the Peace Judge Naomi Doyle is at the forefront of this effort.

2 months ago | 12newsnow.com | Sharinna Byrd |Kayla Choates

PORT ARTHUR, Texas — The Rainbow Bridge will close at 10 p.m. tonight for an 18-month construction project, forcing drivers onto a detour and increasing commute times for thousands. The Texas Department of Transportation is reinforcing the steel structure and installing new railings due to growing safety concerns. A temporary detour for westbound traffic into Port Arthur has been set up, but many commuters are concerned about the extended travel times.

2 months ago | 12newsnow.com | Sharinna Byrd |Kayla Choates

SARATOGA, Texas — High winds and low humidity have created dangerous wildfire conditions across Southeast Texas, pushing volunteer firefighters to work tirelessly for nearly a week. These challenging weather conditions, along with the freeze and high winds, are reminiscent of the wildfires seen in the summer of 2023.

2 months ago | 12newsnow.com | Sharinna Byrd |Kayla Choates

PORT ARTHUR, Texas — The family of Bobby Francois, a Port Arthur man shot and killed by an off-duty security officer at Prince Hall Village Apartments, is remembering him as a loving father and a cherished family member. Francois, a father of four, passed away early this morning at a hospital in Galveston, surrounded by his loved ones. His family is devastated by his sudden death and struggling to understand how such a senseless act of violence could happen to someone they loved deeply.

Mar 7, 2025 | 12newsnow.com | Sharinna Byrd |Kayla Choates

BEAUMONT, Texas — The Beaumont Mural Festival kicks off this weekend, drawing artists from around the world to paint the city and showcase its rich history. The annual event, which has become a major attraction, invites community members to watch artists complete their murals while enjoying live music, food vendors, and activities. "Now that the art and just like people from all over the world are coming here to paint, and trying to get in.