🌱 Body Of Missing Girl Found + Texas Rangers Investigate MPD

Hello. It's me, Danielle Fallon-O'Leary, your host of the Odessa-Midland Patch newsletter — back in your inbox with all the most important things happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: A strong afternoon t-storm. High: 89 Low: 64.
• Tuesday: A t-storm around in the p.m.. High: 92 Low: 66.

Business owners and marketers in Odessa-Midland: Do you want to build awareness with local customers? I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. Click here to learn more.

Here are the top three stories in Odessa-Midland today:

1. Midland police have arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of murdering 20-year-old Madeline Molina Pantoja. Pantoja was reported missing after she was last seen on May 10, and her remains were discovered east of County Road 190. The suspect, Mario Juan Chacon Jr., believed to be Pantoja's former boyfriend, was allegedly heard arguing with her on the night she disappeared and is now considered a potential murderer. (Odessa American)
2. Following an alleged stabbing incident in Midland on Friday, an officer shot and killed 23-year-old man Andrew A. Rodriguez. The Texas Rangers have been called in to investigate the incident, which occurred when Rodriguez allegedly charged at an officer with a knife. The Rangers will examine both the incident itself and the protocols of the Midland Police Department in relation to the case. (Odessa American)
3. Residents of Midland expressed their gratitude to crossing guard Mark Hall for his diligent work and friendly demeanor in ensuring the safety of children and parents as they cross the street to Goddard Junior High and Emerson Elementary School. Hall's commitment and positive interactions with the community have made a lasting impact, prompting residents to surprise him with gifts as a token of appreciation. Hall expressed his heartfelt thanks and joy in serving a community that has always made him feel welcome. (News West 9)

From our sponsor:

Today’s Odessa-Midland Patch newsletter is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. T-Mobile has invested billions to light up their best network ever, covering 99% of people in America with LTE, which helps to keep communities like ours informed and connected. We thank T-Mobile for their support and for making today’s Odessa-Midland Patch newsletter possible.

Today and tomorrow in Odessa-Midland:

Monday, May 22

• Adult Coloring Group At Centennial Library (3:00 PM)
• Teen/Tween Embroidery At Library At The Plaza (5:00 PM)

Tuesday, May 23

• Entry-Level Job Fair (Virtual) Hosted By JobFairX (11:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• As National Police Week wrapped up last week, the department highlighted Officer Cody Allen Smith, who works as a field training officer on patrol. You can read more about Smith at the link! (Midland Police Department via Facebook)
• Despite the gloomy and chilly weather, Odessa employees volunteered with enthusiasm and a smile to assist with a project at Equipment Services, showcasing great teamwork and dedication to improving the city. You can see photos of employees working the event at the link! (City of Odessa, TX via Facebook)
• Are you looking to fill your social calendar this week? Check out the list of events happening in and around Odessa this week at the link! (Odessa AF)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Monday off right! I'll catch up with you soon with another update.

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a content manager with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.