Good morning, Las Cruces.

Las Cruces police investigated a stabbing on the 200 block of east Idaho Avenue early Saturday when a 39-year-old man was attacked after he refused to give car keys, escaped to a Walgreens where police and fire crews met him before he was airlifted to an El Paso hospital—he described the suspect as a 5-foot-11 African-American man with short hair, a goatee, an oversized black hoodie and dark pants who spoke with a mid-western or east coast accent.

New Mexico State University will offer its new Bachelor of Science in AI in fall 2026 — the state’s first AI-focused undergraduate degree that teaches computer science basics, AI ethics, and practical applications.

The university plans to expand its AI initiatives later to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in local labs and the job market.

Explore Academy closed its high school after the board voted unanimously on June 20—citing a large one-time payment and hidden contracts that hurt the school—and canceled the school year set to begin on July 28 while keeping kindergarten through eighth grade classes.

Parents are now scrambling to find new placements for their children.

The Office of Emergency Management is providing free empty sandbags for residents in Doña Ana County at select fire stations ahead of heavy rains and a moderate risk of flash flooding from the National Weather Service.

Each household can pick up up to 10 bags with dirt piles available at two locations—call 575-647-7900 for more details.

The Las Cruces Fire Department set safety rules for fireworks use during the Independence Day holiday, stressing that fireworks sold outside the city must be used only where purchased and only on paved or bare surfaces.

Sales run from June 20 to July 6, and fireworks not allowed (such as aerial or ground audible devices) carry fines up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail.

Las Cruces Electric 5K & One-mile Fun Run

7:30-8:30 p.m. — Meerscheidt Center — Cost not specified — Participate in an electrifying evening of running fun for all ages.

Annual 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks

6 p.m. — Pat & Lou Sisbarro Community Park — Free entry — Enjoy a festive concert followed by a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day.

7th Annual Tequila, Taco & Cerveza Festival

Enjoy a summer block party — 1-7 p.m. — Plaza De Las Cruces — Free entry — Indulge in over 100 Mexican beers and 40 tequilas while enjoying live entertainment and vendors.

Music in the Park - Thee Locomotion Style and Satisfied

Enjoy the summer weather — Time not specified — Young Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant afternoon of live music featuring local acts across various genres.