The drones, operated from a tactical center in Austin, can deliver medical supplies and even attack potential assailants, the company said.
Eli Hartman
Eli Hartman is a 2023-2024 Poynter-Koch Media and Journalism Fellow on the Tribune's photography team. A native of the Permian Basin, Eli grew up in Midland before beginning his journalism career at the Odessa American. In 2022, Eli moved to Central Texas to return to school at Texas State University, working toward a bachelor's degree in photography.
One year after a deadly train wreck, a West Texas town awaits help to avoid more tragedy
As oil and gas industry traffic continues to speed through Pecos, TxDOT said it is working to find $194 million to build an alternative route away from the heart of the city.
As landowners resist, Texas’ border wall is fragmented and built in remote areas
At least a third of landowners approached by state officials have refused to let wall be built on their properties. That’s forced the state to largely build on ranchland in remote areas, or erect sections that are full of gaps.
At this West Texas church, “the Lord’s work” is helping the poor, not rewriting state law
Led by co-pastors Joe and Dawn Weaks, Connection Christian Church, a 118-year-old congregation in Odessa, has transformed while keeping true to its legacy of helping the community.
Odessa’s mayor ran to help the West Texas city “repent.” Now he wants a second term.
Under Javier Joven’s leadership, his critics say, the Odessa City Council has lost focus on municipal issues like roads and water infrastructure.
Unchecked growth around Big Bend sparks debate over water — a prelude for Texas
No one knows how much water sits beneath the desert of Terlingua. Residents worry their wells will run dry, as developers and local officials cheer the tourism boom.


