Local News
El Paso Port of Entry Temporarily Closed Following President Trump’s Inauguration
El Paso, TX – The El Paso port of entry has been temporarily closed following the inauguration of President Donald Trump on Monday, January 20, 2025, as part of an anticipated series of executive actions aimed at curbing illegal immigration.
Law enforcement officers, including border protection agents and local police, were seen securing the entrance to the port of entry as Trump took the oath of office.
Officers, equipped with riot shields, stood in formation while an announcement was made over loudspeakers warning those attempting to cross that any unauthorized entry would result in arrest, prosecution, and potential use of force.
The warning was delivered in both English and Spanish.
In addition to the port closure, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that the CBP One application—a digital platform used for scheduling asylum claim appointments—was deactivated shortly after Trump’s inauguration.
All previously scheduled asylum appointments were canceled as of Monday afternoon.
President Trump, who is expected to sign over 200 executive orders on his first day in office, emphasized immigration enforcement as a top priority. During his inaugural address, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to stringent immigration policies, stating:
“Today, I will sign a series of historic executive orders. With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense.”
He further pledged an immediate halt to illegal crossings and announced plans to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which requires asylum seekers to await the outcome of their immigration proceedings outside the United States.
Trump’s executive actions are also expected to address other policy areas, including the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, expanding domestic energy production, and reducing government spending.
The situation at the El Paso port of entry remains tense as officials continue to enforce the new policies. Further updates are expected as federal agencies release additional guidance on immigration enforcement measures.
Individuals with inquiries regarding the port closure or immigration-related matters are encouraged to contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Local News
Leah Levy Among Two Skydivers Killed in Midair Collision During Landing Near Lake Elsinore, California
LAKE ELSINORE, California — Two experienced skydivers, including Leah Levy, died after their parachutes became entangled during a midair collision while they were preparing to land at a skydiving event in Southern California on Friday.
The fatal accident occurred at Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, where two licensed and experienced skydivers were participating in an organized skydiving event.
According to a statement from Skydive Elsinore, the collision happened at approximately 150 feet above the ground as the two participants were approaching the landing area.
Both skydivers suffered critical injuries and were transported to a local hospital. They were later pronounced dead.
Skydive Elsinore said the initial stages of the jump, including the free-fall portion and parachute deployment, proceeded normally.
However, as the two skydivers prepared to land, they collided in midair at an altitude of approximately 150 feet, or about 46 meters, above the ground.
The impact caused their parachutes to become entangled, leaving both participants unable to complete their landings safely.
“The collision caused their parachutes to become entangled, and both sustained critical injuries when they reached the ground,” the company said in a statement.
The Riverside County Fire Department reported that both skydivers suffered traumatic injuries in the incident.
Emergency responders transported them to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite receiving medical attention, both later died from their injuries.
One of the victims was identified in the supplied information as Leah Levy. The second skydiver’s identity has not been provided.
Skydive Elsinore confirmed that both individuals were licensed and experienced skydivers participating in the organized event.
The company said the collision occurred during the final approach to landing, after the free fall and parachute-opening stages had reportedly gone normally.
The incident resulted in the deaths of both participants.
Further details about the circumstances surrounding the collision and any subsequent investigation have not been provided in the available information.