🌱 Medical Examiner Identifies Remains + Child Vaccination Rates Drop

Hey, Dallas. I'm here in your inbox this warm morning to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on around town.

But first, today's weather:

Sunny and hot. High: 102 Low: 78.

Here are the top three stories today in Dallas:

1. The Dallas County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed the identity of a woman, De'brenese Henry, whose remains were discovered along the Trinity River's path on Jul. 22. Her death was ruled a homicide, and it is believed to be linked to a series of gruesome murders allegedly committed by Oscar Sanchez Garcia. Garcia has been apprehended and charged with the murders of two other individuals, and it is expected that he will face a third murder charge related to Henry's case. A GoFundMe campaign was initiated to assist with funeral expenses, and a memorial service is planned to honor Henry's life. (Dallas Patch)
2. Childhood vaccination rates in Texas and the United States have declined due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the 2021-22 school year, the national vaccine rate for kindergarteners dropped to 93 percent, below the target of 95 percent, as reported by the CDC. In Dallas and Collin counties, the vaccination rate for kindergarteners is 94 percent. This decrease in vaccination rates raises concerns among doctors, as it leaves thousands of kids vulnerable to preventable illnesses. As the first day of school approaches, it is crucial for children to receive their vaccinations to maintain high vaccination rates, which are vital in protecting them from diseases. (CBS Texas)
3. The Dallas Police Department is seeking public assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a shooting incident that took place on Jun. 28 at a residence on Lambert Street. Surveillance footage shows an unidentified Black male exiting a white Nissan Altima parked near the home and firing multiple shots from a .22 rifle before fleeing the scene in the same vehicle. There were no reported injuries from the shooting, and anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Detective A. Zabriskie at 469-849-3760 or via email at alexander.zabriskie@dallaspolice.gov, referencing case number 117406-2023. (My Texas Daily)

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Today in Dallas:

Friday, July 28

• Piano In The Park At Klyde Warren Park (10:00 AM)
• Toddler Storytime At Skyline Branch Library (10:30 AM)
• TK Kirkland: Grown Folks Talkin At House Of Blues (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Fresh Produce Drive-Thru is a recurring event held at the West Dallas Multipurpose Center (WDMC) every second and fourth Friday from 1:00-2:30 p.m. Simply drive up to receive free produce, and no qualifications are necessary to participate! (City of Dallas - City Hall via Facebook)
• The health sector in Dallas is experiencing significant growth, leading to an increased demand for medical couriers. These couriers play a crucial role in transporting medical samples, reports, records, and supplies between healthcare providers and laboratories. Many companies in the DFW area are actively hiring medical couriers, offering various career opportunities in this field. (Dallas Patch)
• Dallas Metro News compiled a list of prime neighborhoods well-suited for families, considering factors such as safety, education, housing affordability, healthcare facilities, and recreational spaces. Some noteworthy neighborhoods include Lakewood Heights, Preston Highlands, Campbell Green, Prestonwood, Wilshire Heights, Lake Ridge Estates, Lakewood, and Moss Farm – Forest Meadow, each offering unique features and amenities to cater to families' varying preferences and needs. (Dallas Patch)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! See you soon for another update.

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.