SUMMARY: Deepak Kandel, 31, arrested for stabbing Akshay Gupta on a CapMetro bus in Austin, has a criminal record dating back to 2016, mostly misdemeanors. Kandel, who is homeless, admitted stabbing Gupta because he resembled his uncle. Surveillance showed the unprovoked attack. Kandel faces a murder charge. Past arrests include trespassing and felony harassment charges, many dismissed or reduced. Court records reveal prior mental health evaluations and competency assessments. Local officials note challenges with mental health hospital bed shortages affecting treatment of repeat offenders. Kandel’s bond is set at $500,000, with a court-ordered mental health supervision condition. Further statements are pending.

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SUMMARY: The Trump administration has challenged asylum rights and birthright citizenship, leading to changes in U.S. border policies. Advocacy groups have criticized these shifts, which have limited asylum claims and worsened conditions for migrants. Asylum seekers were restricted to ports of entry with appointments, and many were turned back or detained. A report highlighted the risks faced by migrants who stayed in Mexico or returned to dangerous conditions. Faith-based and secular groups, including the ACLU, are fighting to restore asylum rights, with some advocating for a broader international response to the crisis.

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SUMMARY: Suburban communities in Texas are experiencing rapid growth, with Fulshear, Celina, and Leander ranking among the top five fastest-growing U.S. cities with populations over 50,000. Fulshear grew by 27%, Celina by 18.2%, and Leander by 8.7% between July 2023 and July 2024. Smaller cities like Princeton and Jarrell also saw significant growth. Texas added 562,941 new residents, making it the second-most populous state. Houston, San Antonio, and Fort Worth had the largest population increases. Meanwhile, Richardson, Lakeway, and Wichita Falls experienced declines. Five Texas cities rank among the top 15 largest nationwide.

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