Local News
Footage Captures Devastating I-27 Pileup Near Canyon, Texas Amid Dust Storm and Zero Visibility
Canyon, TX – A major vehicle pileup occurred on Interstate 27 near Canyon, Texas, as a severe dust storm created zero visibility conditions across the region.
Footage from the scene shows extensive wreckage as emergency crews work to clear the highway.
In addition to hazardous travel conditions, high winds have caused widespread power outages throughout the Texas Panhandle.
As of 2:20 p.m., approximately 67,000 customers are without power, according to the Xcel Energy Outage Map, which shows outages affecting communities across the region.
Xcel Energy has deployed crews to inspect damage and restore power, with efforts expected to continue throughout the weekend.
In response to the outages, multiple power centers and comfort stations have been opened to assist residents, particularly those reliant on electrically powered medical equipment.
City of Borger: The Johnson Park Youth Center at 1210 Bulldog Blvd is open with generator backup for individuals with medical needs.
- Amarillo & Canyon: Due to ongoing Xcel Energy public safety power shutoffs, the City of Amarillo and City of Canyon have opened power centers at the following locations:
- Amarillo Public Libraries – Open for residents to charge electronic devices.
- Cole Community Center & Canyon Library – Open until power is restored or no longer needed.
- Warford Activity Center (1330 NW 18th Ave, Amarillo): Will operate as a comfort station from 6:00 p.m. Friday to 6:00 a.m. Saturday, allowing residents to charge medical and critical electronic devices.
Local authorities have also reported preemptive power shutdowns in some areas due to fire danger caused by the high winds.
- Tulia Police Department confirmed that electricity was turned off as a fire prevention measure.
- Silverton has also experienced a planned power outage due to the dangerous wind conditions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise residents to take precautions amid ongoing hazardous weather conditions.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.