Category: U.S. News

The U.S. Department of Defense is launching a significant effort to accelerate domestic production of compact attack drones as these affordable unmanned aircraft revolutionize modern military operations.

These small-scale attack drones have emerged as crucial weapons in contemporary conflicts, prompting military leaders to prioritize rapid expansion of manufacturing capabilities for these increasingly vital battlefield tools.

INSTITUTE, W.Va. — Two workers have died and 19 others required hospitalization following a deadly chemical incident at a West Virginia precious metals facility, according to emergency officials.

The dangerous leak happened at Catalyst Refiners in Institute while employees were working to close down portions of the silver recovery operation, according to Kanawha County Commission Emergency Management Director C.W. Sigman.

Officials say the incident involved a dangerous interaction between nitric acid and another chemical compound. “A violent reaction of the chemicals and it instantaneously overreacted,” Sigman explained during a press conference.

Sigman noted that “Starting or ending a chemical reaction are the most dangerous times.”

Seven emergency responders who arrived at the scene were among those requiring medical treatment, authorities confirmed.

Emergency officials said some victims were transported to medical facilities in personal vehicles, with one person even taken to the hospital in a garbage truck, according to Sigman.

Area residents were ordered to shelter in place for more than five hours before the directive was lifted. Emergency management officials confirmed that all fatalities and injuries happened within the plant’s boundaries.

“You had to get really close to the facility to smell it,” Sigman reported.

The incident triggered a massive decontamination response where exposed individuals had to strip off all clothing and undergo chemical washdown procedures, emergency officials said.

The facility specializes in extracting silver from industrial waste materials and can recover thousands of dollars worth of precious metals simply by cleaning office floors at manufacturing plants, according to Sigman.

Ames Goldsmith Corp., which owns the Catalyst Refiners operation, expressed grief over the tragic outcome and solidarity with affected families.

“This is an unfathomably difficult time,” the company said in a statement released during the briefing. “Our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues and their families.”

The parent company pledged full cooperation with local, state and federal investigators examining the cause of the incident.

The facility is situated near Institute, a small community located approximately 10 miles west of Charleston, West Virginia’s capital city.

WASHINGTON — State-funded preschool programs welcomed a record number of young learners last school year, with enrollment climbing to historic levels thanks to unprecedented government investment of $14.4 billion.

According to a new study released Wednesday by the National Institute of Early Education Research, approximately 1.8 million children participated in state-funded preschool programs nationwide. This represents coverage for 37% of all 4-year-olds and roughly 10% of 3-year-olds across the country. The programs gained 44,000 new students compared to the previous year, though researchers noted this growth was slower than earlier increases and highlighted significant disparities between different states.

“If providing high-quality preschool education to all 3- and 4-year-olds were a race,” the authors wrote, “some states are nearing the finish line, others have stumbled and fallen behind, and a few have yet to leave the starting line.”

California accounted for more than half of the national enrollment increase, adding approximately 25,000 students through its expanded “transitional kindergarten” or “TK” initiative. This year, the state extended eligibility to all 4-year-olds in the program. However, the rapid expansion came with challenges. While the research institute established 10 quality standards covering areas like teacher preparation, classroom size, and educational content, California only satisfied two of these criteria during the most recent school year. Additionally, private preschool operators express concern that the influx of children into public programs could severely impact their operations.

“Universal TK … is a real win, but it’s also just the start of the work and not the end of it,” said Jessica Sawko of Children Now, which advocates on early childhood issues in California. She noted that the state will hit two more quality benchmarks in next year’s report, by lowering its student-teacher ratio to 10-to-1 and by requiring lead teachers to have early education training.

The findings demonstrate the challenging balance states must strike when rapidly expanding programs or operating with constrained budgets. Hawaii exemplifies this tension as one of only six states meeting all quality standards established by the institute, yet its program reaches just 10% of eligible 4-year-olds.

Research continues to demonstrate that quality early childhood education creates lasting benefits, helping children succeed in kindergarten, complete high school, and secure employment as adults. Educational experts increasingly view preschool as crucial preparation, as kindergarten teachers now expect incoming students to arrive with foundational skills.

“We have a lot of kids who still do not fulfill their potential,” said Steven Barnett, founder and director of the early education institute. “We have evidence — very strong evidence — that preschool programs substantially improved the foundation for later success.”

Many states also recognize that free prekindergarten programs can boost the broader economy by enabling parents to return to work while private childcare becomes increasingly expensive.

Heather Sufuentes observed these benefits firsthand as principal of Parkview Elementary in Chico, California, when the school launched its transitional kindergarten program. Students who completed the play-based, full-day program demonstrated greater confidence and frequently stepped into leadership roles in their classes.

“They’re well prepared to transition into that big elementary school setting,” said Sufuentes, now director of elementary education for Chico Unified School District. Chico has more than doubled the number of TK seats it offers since 2022.

Marisol Márquez, a secretary who works for the state, sends her daughter to transitional kindergarten at 1st Street Elementary in Los Angeles. She had been sending her for free to a learning center underwritten by COVID-19 relief funding. But she would have had to start paying tuition this year, and she’s not sure how she and her husband, a UPS driver, would have made it work. She was elated to hear 1st Street Elementary was offering free transitional kindergarten.

Teachers at the school quickly recognized her daughter’s academic abilities and began including her in kindergarten mathematics and reading instruction.

“If it hadn’t been for this program, we would have never found that out,” Márquez said.

While expectations for 5-year-olds have increased, no state requires preschool attendance, and only certain cities and states provide universal access for 4-year-olds. Program availability varies dramatically across the country. Families in Wyoming, which offers no state-funded preschool, could relocate to Colorado and access free part-time preschool for their 4-year-old. Washington D.C. provides two complete years of prekindergarten even for wealthy families, while nearby Virginia operates a much smaller program.

These geographic disparities can worsen existing inequalities. Affluent families typically can afford private preschool regardless of state offerings. Private childcare centers using preschool curricula charged an average of more than $12,000 annually for 4-year-olds in 2024, according to Child Care Aware of America.

Families unable to pay private tuition face limited alternatives. State-funded programs frequently maintain waiting lists.

Low-income families may qualify for programs like Head Start, which serves America’s most disadvantaged children. However, Head Start enrollment is declining partly due to staffing shortages. These families might also receive state or federal childcare subsidies for private preschool, but those programs also have expanding waiting lists.

Federal funding for early education expansion remains limited and decreasing. Recently, President Donald Trump said the federal government couldn’t afford to support child care while it was waging a war with Iran.

“We’re fighting wars. We can’t take care of day care,” Trump said. States, he added, “should pay for it. … They’ll have to raise their taxes.”

The distribution of high-quality public preschool programs might surprise political observers. Republican-controlled states pioneered universal prekindergarten, with Oklahoma launching its program in the late 1990s. Alabama and West Virginia also operate highly-rated preschool-for-all initiatives. Wealthier Democratic states have moved more slowly, though many liberal cities have advanced their own programs. New York state actually lost enrollment last year, even as New York City, which already provides universal prekindergarten, pursues plans for free childcare for younger children.

Georgia, under Republican leadership, became the first state to achieve universal preschool while meeting all quality standards set by the National Institute of Early Education Research.

Rebecca Ellis’s son John Patrick, 5, attends the private Capitol Hill Child Enrichment Center in Atlanta free of charge, thanks to the state’s preschool-for-all program. She said it saved her family a huge amount of money, and she is impressed by how much her son has grown socially and emotionally.

“They focus so much on just helping kids learn how to calm down, to make friends, to regulate their feelings, to solve problems,” Ellis said.

John Patrick and her older son, who attended the same preschool, have even given their parents advice. When they become agitated, the children urge them to take deep breaths.

Those seeking diverse entertainment options can find multiple events at Caroline County’s Meadow Event Park this spring season.

The venue will present numerous competitions appealing to various interests and age groups, starting with the Virginia Gypsy Vanner Spring Classic Breakout Horse Show from April 23-26. This comprehensive equestrian competition will showcase English, Western, Halter, Trail and Ranch categories. Additional details are available through the J and S Equestrian Events Facebook page or by calling Julie Usoff at 904-673-0765.

The month concludes with the Virginia Elite Gymnastics Academy’s 2026 VA Women’s Levels 3 and 4 State Championships, scheduled for April 24-26. The USA Gymnastics Virginia website provides complete event information.

May brings additional attractions, beginning with the Richmond Open from May 1-3. This community-organized tabletop gaming gathering will include vendor booths, miniature gaming competitions, major tournaments, board game activities, and open play sessions. Complete details can be found on the event’s official website.

The Fredericksburg Area Livestock Show and Sale takes place May 1-2, providing community members the chance to support young participants developing animal husbandry and marketing abilities. Caroline County Virginia Cooperative Extension can be reached at 804-633-6550 for additional information.

The East Coast Stock Horse Association Ranch Horse Gathering occurs May 2-3, featuring compelling competitions over two days. Programming includes an all-breed ECSHA exhibition, working western rail competition, ranch riding demonstrations, and additional activities. More details are available through their website.

Those wanting regular updates about upcoming Meadow Event Park activities can sign up for monthly email notifications through their subscription service.

Although Virginia’s boating regulations establish minimum standards for mandatory safety equipment including life jackets, flares, and horns, marine safety experts emphasize that carrying additional protective gear beyond these legal minimums can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening emergency.

Smart boaters understand that true water safety extends far beyond simply meeting state requirements. By investing in supplementary equipment like medical supplies, communication devices, navigation aids, and backup tools, recreational boaters create multiple layers of protection for themselves and their passengers.

Marine safety specialists recommend considering these eleven categories of supplementary equipment:

Medical Supplies
A comprehensive first-aid kit becomes essential when dealing with common boating injuries such as cuts, severe sunburn, or seasickness while waiting for professional medical assistance.

Communication Equipment
VHF marine radios provide dependable contact with emergency services and nearby vessels, particularly in areas where cellular service becomes unreliable.

Navigation Tools
GPS units, chart plotters, and traditional compasses help prevent dangerous situations like running aground or becoming disoriented in unfamiliar waters.

Anchoring Systems
Reliable anchor equipment with sufficient line enables boaters to stabilize their vessel during mechanical problems or emergency situations.

Water Removal Equipment
Manual bailers and backup bilge pumps provide critical protection against unexpected water intrusion that could overwhelm primary pumping systems.

Backup Propulsion
Extra paddles or oars give smaller watercraft operators essential backup mobility when engines fail unexpectedly.

Engine Safety Backups
Additional engine cut-off lanyards ensure operators always have this critical safety device available.

Fire Suppression Tools
Marine-grade fire blankets or additional extinguishers supplement required fire equipment and can prove vital during sudden onboard blazes.

Mechanical Support Items
Emergency fuel supplies and basic tool kits help address minor engine problems before they become major emergencies requiring rescue assistance.

Mooring Equipment
Extra dock lines and rope provide essential backup when primary mooring equipment fails during docking operations.

Emergency Location Devices
Personal Locator Beacons transmit precise GPS coordinates and distress signals through satellite networks directly to search and rescue teams, enabling rapid location and assistance.

Safety experts identify four key advantages of carrying supplementary protective equipment:

Emergency Response Capability: Alternative equipment options can become lifesaving when primary systems fail, whether dealing with communication breakdowns or fire emergencies.

Improved Navigation Safety: Electronic and traditional navigation tools significantly reduce risks of becoming lost in unknown waters.

Equipment Redundancy: Having duplicate critical items like propulsion, safety lanyards, and water removal tools prevents minor equipment failures from escalating into serious emergencies.

Operational Efficiency: Practical equipment including anchoring systems, mooring lines, and weather protection contributes to more enjoyable and safer recreational boating experiences.

As Mother’s Day and Father’s Day approach, families with boating enthusiasts have unique opportunities to find meaningful gifts that combine thoughtfulness with water safety.

Mother’s Day Gift Suggestions:

Safety should be a top priority, making an inflatable life jacket an excellent choice to keep Mom protected on the water. A waterproof dry bag designed for carrying essential items makes another practical present, especially models featuring clips or straps for convenient transport. For added style, consider a DWR dry bag option. Long-sleeved hooded shirts with sun protection features provide crucial coverage during extended time on the water.

Father’s Day Gift Options:

Dads also deserve safety gear, with inflatable life jackets being equally important for male boaters. Polarized sunglasses serve a dual purpose by cutting down water glare while improving visibility of underwater objects. For serious safety consideration, emergency beacons represent invaluable investments – either EPRIB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon) or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) devices can be lifesaving tools in emergency situations.

Eleven passengers were hurt when a work vehicle crashed into a parked Metro train in Washington DC during the early morning hours Wednesday, according to transit officials.

The collision happened around 12:15 a.m. at Metro Center station, where a Silver Line train was sitting motionless when the work vehicle struck it, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority announced on social media.

Metro Center serves as one of the busiest connection hubs in the transit network. Transit officials confirmed that while 11 people sustained injuries in the crash, none were considered life-threatening. Authorities have not released additional information about how severe the injuries were or what types of injuries occurred.

Commuters faced widespread delays across the Metro system Wednesday morning as investigators examined the crash scene. Rail operations were limited to single-track service in the affected area while the investigation continued.

Federal aviation officials have provided new details about their comprehensive strategy to modernize America’s outdated air traffic control infrastructure, with the head of the Federal Aviation Administration acknowledging significant room for improvement.

Transportation Department and FAA executives briefed the public on their sweeping initiative to overhaul the nation’s air traffic management systems. The modernization effort will incorporate artificial intelligence-powered software designed to enhance traffic flow management capabilities.

The current analog-based system has been identified as needing substantial upgrades to meet the demands of modern aviation. Officials emphasized that the technological transformation represents a critical step forward for American aviation safety and efficiency.

Federal authorities have arrested a 21-year-old Chinese college student for unlawfully photographing sensitive U.S. military aircraft during a cross-country trip that took him to multiple Air Force installations.

Tianrui Liang was taken into custody on April 7 at a New York airport as he attempted to board a flight to Glasgow, Scotland, where he is enrolled in school, according to FBI court documents.

The student confessed to federal investigators that he exited his vehicle on a public roadway in late March to capture images of an RC-135 reconnaissance plane and an E-4B aircraft at Offutt Air Force Base near Omaha, Nebraska, the FBI reported.

The E-4B aircraft, nicknamed “Nightwatch,” functions as a mobile command headquarters for the president and senior military leaders during national emergencies, the Air Force explains.

Federal law prohibits photographing or sketching military installations without proper authorization, the FBI noted. While pictures of these aircraft types can be found on the internet, taking unauthorized photos at defense facilities remains illegal.

During questioning, Liang told federal agents that it was “legal to take pictures of the sky, but he knew it was illegal to take pictures of the planes on the ground,” according to the FBI. He claimed the photographs were intended for his personal collection.

Defense attorney Jeff Thomas, representing Liang, refused to provide comment on Tuesday. The defendant has yet to make his initial appearance before a federal judge in Omaha.

Court records show Liang arrived in Vancouver, British Columbia, on March 26 to meet with a friend who studies at a New York college. The pair crossed into the United States through Washington state, after which Liang traveled solo to visit Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. Federal investigators say he also expressed interest in visiting Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma.

This incident follows a pattern of similar charges filed against Chinese college students at military installations.

In 2023, five men faced charges for lying and attempting to conceal their activities after being discovered in darkness near a Michigan military facility during training exercises. All five had graduated from the University of Michigan and apparently returned to China before formal charges were filed, never appearing in court.

Two years earlier, in 2020, a pair of Chinese nationals pursuing graduate degrees at the University of Michigan received prison sentences for illegally photographing a naval air station in Key West, Florida.

A former U.S. Navy serviceman facing charges in a deadly shooting spree that terrorized the Atlanta area has died while in custody, jail officials announced Wednesday.

Olaolukitan Adon Abel, 26, was discovered unresponsive in his jail cell Tuesday evening, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office reported. Despite emergency medical efforts to revive the military veteran, he was declared dead at the facility.

While the exact cause of Abel’s death remains under investigation, authorities do not believe criminal activity was involved, according to sheriff’s office officials. An internal investigation is now underway.

Abel faced charges in connection with the fatal shootings of Prianna Weathers, 31, and Lauren Bullis, 40, a Department of Homeland Security auditor who was walking her dog when she was killed. Prosecutors were also preparing to file an additional murder charge related to Tony Mathews, 49, who succumbed to his injuries on Sunday after being wounded in the violence.

Investigators have not revealed what may have motivated the deadly attacks. Law enforcement officials indicated they believe at least one victim was chosen randomly, and it remains unknown whether Abel had any prior connection to those he allegedly targeted.

People who shared living space with Abel told reporters that he had engaged in a heated dispute about air conditioning settings at their residence shortly before the shootings occurred and left the property angrily. The residence housed seven people in separate living units.

Originally from the United Kingdom, Abel obtained American citizenship in 2022 during his military service while stationed near San Diego.

The violent incidents have attracted attention from federal officials, with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin questioning the decision to grant Abel citizenship during the previous presidential administration. Mullin highlighted Abel’s alleged criminal history, though the timing of those incidents in relation to his citizenship approval remains unclear.

Federal aviation authorities announced Tuesday they are examining a dangerous near-collision involving two commercial aircraft at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, Republic Airways Flight 4464 had to execute an emergency go-around maneuver Monday after deviating from its proper approach route and coming dangerously close to Jazz Aviation Flight 554, which had authorization to land on an adjacent runway.

“The crew of Republic Airways Flight 4464 performed a go-around at John F. Kennedy International Airport after missing the intended approach path and flying too close to Jazz Aviation Flight 554, which was cleared to land on a parallel runway. Both flight crews responded to onboard alerts,” the FAA stated regarding Monday’s incident.

“The FAA is investigating the event,” the agency confirmed.

Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 revealed the aircraft came within a mere 350 feet of each other vertically and just 0.62 miles apart horizontally at their nearest point.

According to reports from an ABC News affiliate, both aircraft successfully completed go-around procedures and touched down safely afterward. Air traffic control recordings captured the sound of anti-collision warning systems activating in both the control tower and aircraft cockpits.

Traffic controllers instructed pilots aboard both jets to execute emergency maneuvers, leading to the cancellation of the initial landing attempt before both planes ultimately landed without further incident.

The flight crews informed controllers they were responding to RA alarms, known as “resolution advisories,” which represent the most critical type of collision-avoidance warning available to pilots.

This incident follows last month’s fatal accident at LaGuardia Airport in New York, where an Air Canada Express aircraft collided with a fire truck, resulting in the deaths of both pilots.

The Los Angeles school board unanimously approved new restrictions Tuesday on how much time students can spend using screens during classroom instruction, citing mounting health concerns.

Board members voted 6-0 with one abstention to establish the new policy, making Los Angeles Unified among the first major school systems nationwide to implement district-wide screen time limitations organized by grade level.

Board member Nick Melvoin, who introduced the proposal, stated through a representative: “Along with the cellphone ban the L.A. Unified School District passed in 2024, we hope to be a national leader on these matters.”

Supporters of the new policy say it aims to find the right balance between educational technology needs and mounting evidence that too much screen exposure may be damaging students’ ability to focus and develop social skills.

The district educates approximately 500,000 students and has depended extensively on digital devices like laptops and tablets since the COVID-19 pandemic pushed schools toward online learning in 2020.

According to the approved resolution: “While access to and developing skills in technology are critical in a digital world, excessive screen time can be associated with vision problems, increased anxiety and depression, addictive behavior, reduced attention span, difficulty managing emotions, lower academic achievement and weaker cognition according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.”

The policy references studies showing that children between 8 and 11 years old who use screens beyond recommended amounts face greater obesity risks and perform worse on thinking skills tests.

Rather than immediately removing devices or setting universal time restrictions, the resolution directs district administrators to create grade-specific recommendations with help from teachers, parents and health professionals. Current school-level policies will continue until new guidelines are established.

Some critics warn that any screen time restrictions must be carefully designed to ensure students with disabilities who depend on assistive technology are not negatively affected.

A Pennsylvania educator who dedicates himself to helping students discover their inner strengths while building community connections has earned the prestigious 2026 National Teacher of the Year recognition.

Leon Smith, age 46, has devoted his entire quarter-century teaching career to Haverford High School in Pennsylvania, where he instructs Advanced Placement courses in United States history and African American studies. Smith characterizes his approach as being a “warm demander,” establishing high standards while providing students with love and support. This often involves identifying hidden abilities and highlighting them for students, he explained during a Monday interview.

“An adult can tell you that they see something in you that maybe you didn’t see in yourself,” he said. “I love to do that for students. When I see ambition, when I see talent, I let them know that so that they can hopefully pursue that goal and achieve their dreams.”

Each class session begins with Smith leading a community-building activity. On Monday, he invited students to discuss songs that brought them joy. One student mentioned a tune that brought back memories of a family trip, while another shared music she enjoyed with friends before they parted ways. This exercise helped students relax before tackling a more challenging topic: determining when the United States should become involved in foreign conflicts.

“We want to make sure that our students can think critically, that they have empathy, that they can understand the nuance and complexity that goes into making decisions,” he said. “My hope is that when they leave my classroom, that they can be civically engaged, that they can make sure that they can create a society that they can be proud of.”

Smith’s educational impact reaches beyond school walls, as he annually brings students to Pennsylvania’s state Capitol for direct interaction with government officials. This initiative earned recognition from the Council of Chief State School Officers, the organization presenting the award, which also acknowledged his focus on incorporating diverse viewpoints in historical education.

In his new role as Teacher of the Year, Smith will dedicate a year to highlighting the crucial influence educators have in developing future generations.

“They’ve moved societies. They have empowered activist movements. They’ve helped people to figure out what they want to do when they group up,” he said. “They’ve had a tremendous impact, and my hope is that people are inspired to join that legacy.”

Disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein is scheduled to face opening statements Tuesday in a Manhattan courtroom for his third New York rape trial, where prosecutors will present allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman.

The 74-year-old former Hollywood powerhouse saw his career collapse amid sexual misconduct allegations that sparked a broader social movement encouraging women to speak out about abuse by influential men.

Weinstein has entered a not guilty plea and maintains he never assaulted anyone or engaged in non-consensual sexual activity.

In this latest proceeding before Justice Curtis Farber, the jury will determine whether Weinstein raped aspiring actress Jessica Mann in a Manhattan hotel room.

Jury selection concluded last week in Manhattan state court, with the trial anticipated to run approximately one month.

During Weinstein’s initial 2020 New York trial, he was found guilty of raping Mann in 2013 and assaulting production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006. However, the state’s top court reversed the conviction and his 23-year prison term.

A Manhattan jury subsequently found Weinstein guilty of sexually abusing Haley in a June 2025 trial, while acquitting him of charges involving former model Kaja Sokola. The jury could not reach a decision on the third-degree rape charge related to Mann, prompting Farber to rule a mistrial on that specific count.

Weinstein also faces a 16-year prison sentence following a 2022 rape conviction in California, which he is currently appealing.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has argued that Weinstein exploited his position and authority to victimize women.

Weinstein’s defense team maintains that his accusers fabricated stories out of resentment when their consensual encounters with him did not advance their Hollywood careers.

The co-founder of Miramax’s legal representatives report his health has significantly declined during his detention at New York’s Rikers Island facility.

Weinstein could receive up to 25 years in prison for his conviction in the Haley case.

Law enforcement officials in Winston-Salem, North Carolina are working to piece together the details of a deadly shooting that left two young boys dead and several others wounded over the weekend.

According to investigators, the tragic incident stemmed from what they describe as an organized confrontation at a local park that quickly turned violent and deadly.

The shooting has shaken the Winston-Salem community as police continue their investigation into the circumstances that led to the loss of young lives and the injury of multiple victims.

Details about the ages of the victims and the specific nature of the altercation have not yet been released by authorities as the investigation remains ongoing.

Law enforcement officials in Shreveport, Louisiana are working to piece together the details surrounding the tragic deaths of eight children who were fatally shot in what investigators have determined was a domestic violence-related incident.

The investigation into the multiple homicides remains ongoing as authorities work to understand the circumstances that led to this devastating loss of young lives in the Louisiana community.

Two devastating incidents of domestic violence that claimed the lives of Black mothers in Louisiana and Virginia have ignited nationwide discussions about improving prevention resources and mental health services available to Black communities.

Community advocates responding to these tragic shootings emphasize that the incidents underscore disturbing patterns showing Black women face disproportionately higher risks of domestic violence. They view these deaths as a crucial moment to address how unequal access to care and resources leaves some women and children more exposed to household violence.

In Shreveport, Louisiana, authorities report that Shamar Elkins killed seven of his children and one additional child on Sunday morning. Family members indicate Elkins was going through a separation from his wife, who survived with injuries.

Meanwhile, last Thursday in Annandale, Virginia, police discovered the bodies of former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and his estranged wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, at their suburban Washington, D.C. area residence. Authorities determined Justin Fairfax killed his estranged wife before taking his own life, while their two children present during the incident remained unharmed. Similar to the Louisiana case, Fairfax was separating from his wife and faced a court-ordered deadline to vacate their shared home.

Though investigators have not determined what triggered either the Shreveport murders or the Virginia murder-suicide, specialists note that the disturbing circumstances reflect common patterns occurring in households nationwide and highlight the urgent need for solutions targeting the fundamental causes of this disproportionate violence.

The Louisiana family had previously experienced gender-based gun violence: both Shaneiqua Elkins and the other shooting victim, Keosha Pugh, were sisters who lost their mother to gun violence before reaching age 10, their uncle Lionel Pugh confirmed.

“It’s sad. It just breaks you down,” Pugh said.

During a Monday press conference, Shreveport Councilman Grayson Boucher described the Louisiana killings as representative of “a true epidemic of domestic violence” throughout the southern city of approximately 180,000 residents.

These patterns extend far beyond Shreveport, as specialists emphasize how both race and gender create heightened vulnerability to domestic violence for Black women specifically.

According to 2014 Centers for Disease Control research, more than four out of ten Black women experience physical violence from intimate partners during their lifetimes — significantly higher rates than white, Hispanic, Asian or Pacific Islander women.

Paméla Tate, executive director of Black Women Revolt, which operates abuse prevention programs and survivor support services, explains that justified skepticism toward police and government child protective agencies rooted in institutionalized racism history makes Black women hesitant to seek assistance — leaving them particularly vulnerable to domestic violence.

Furthermore, Black women face twice the likelihood of being murdered by men compared to white women, according to a 2025 Violence Policy Center study analyzing 2023 federal data. The perpetrators typically know their victims, the research found, with more than nine out of ten Black female victims knowing their killers, and most of these deaths involving firearms.

Ultimately, Tate explained, “domestic violence doesn’t see color,” stemming primarily from widespread beliefs among men across all racial groups that women are subjects or property.

“Domestic violence is about exerting power over someone that you profess to love and controlling their behavior,” Tate said.

Mental health crises have generated significant discussion regarding their potential influence in both shootings.

A family member of Elkins’ wife informed The Associated Press that Elkins voluntarily admitted himself to a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in January for approximately ten days seeking mental health treatment.

In Virginia, Justin Fairfax had been a promising Democratic Party figure until two women accused him of sexual assault, damaging his credibility as a political leader. Court documents indicate the former lieutenant governor’s “mental and emotional health” deteriorated before he killed his wife and himself, noting he consumed alcohol heavily and isolated himself from family after the 2019 allegations became public.

Adult and child psychiatrist Christine Crawford, who has not analyzed the Shreveport or Annandale cases, explained that financial difficulties, marriage problems and workplace issues — combined with existing mental health vulnerabilities — can cause someone to “crack.”

“It makes some think about the amount of pain, distress and hopelessness they found themselves in at that time,” said Crawford, who works at Boston’s Webster Clinic and serves as interim chief medical officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

She observed that many Black individuals cannot afford mental health programs and care due to factors like private treatment costs and insurance gaps.

Such desperation can leave people feeling “completely out of options on how to deal with the pain he was in at that moment,” Crawford said.

Some experts point to social factors underlying these economic patterns.

“Mental health disparities in the Black community is not accidental,” said University of Michigan Social Work Professor Daphne C. Watkins. “They are the predictable result of structural racism” in educational systems, employment opportunities and other societal areas.

Watkins, who founded the YBMen Project providing young Black men safe spaces to discuss mental health, masculinity and social support, cited studies showing 10% of Black adults experience moderate to severe depression, while 18% have anxiety disorders.

However, Black men typically avoid mental health treatment due to cultural pressures in addition to financial barriers, Watkins noted. Without proper outlets, stress from family, work and relationships accumulates.

“For a long time, in the Black community, we didn’t talk about anxiety. Now, you have to talk about it hand in hand along with depression.”

Others strongly reject mental health as justification for domestic violence.

“To say they’re mentally ill, that doesn’t cut it,” Tate said. “There are people who are depressed or people who have schizophrenia and don’t harm the their partners, much less kill them.”

Both Shaneiqua Elkins and Cerina Fairfax might have faced mental health struggles too, Tate noted, and they both “had the same access or ability to go and purchase a gun” but chose differently.

“The mental illness is not what we’re talking about here,” she said.

NEW YORK — A fresh jury will hear opening arguments Tuesday in Harvey Weinstein’s rape retrial in New York, marking another chapter in a landmark #MeToo case that has remained unresolved for almost eight years since the former Hollywood mogul’s initial arrest.

The disgraced producer has faced mixed outcomes in sexual assault trials across the country since becoming a central figure in the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct almost ten years ago. While some charges have resulted in convictions and others in acquittals, the rape allegation stemming from a 2013 incident at a Manhattan hotel continues to pursue him following a reversed conviction and subsequent hung jury.

Weinstein maintains his innocence, having entered a not guilty plea and rejecting claims of any non-consensual sexual activity. During a court appearance this winter, he acknowledged being “unfaithful to his then-wife” and stated he “acted wrongly, but I never assaulted anyone.”

The jury composition includes seven men and five women, selected through questioning conducted over multiple days last week. This differs from Weinstein’s previous New York jury, which was predominantly female, while his initial jury was mainly male.

Potential jurors underwent screening about their knowledge of Weinstein and their ability to remain fair and unbiased despite any prior information they may have encountered.

The 73-year-old defendant, currently incarcerated, previously held immense influence in Hollywood as an Academy Award-winning producer and studio executive. His credits include bringing celebrated films like “Pulp Fiction,” “Shakespeare in Love,” and “Gangs of New York” to theaters, along with the hit reality show “Project Runway” to television. He also maintained significant connections as a major Democratic political contributor.

His entertainment empire crumbled in 2017 when long-circulating Hollywood rumors about his treatment of women transformed into public allegations through news reports and social media. Criminal prosecutions in both New York and Los Angeles followed.

The complainant in this proceeding, Jessica Mann, worked as a hairstylist with aspirations of entering major film acting when she encountered Weinstein at a Los Angeles-area gathering in late 2012 or early 2013.

Mann previously testified that while seeking professional opportunities, she became involved in what she described as a conflicted, consensual relationship with the then-married producer.

According to Mann’s earlier court testimony, during a March 2013 visit to New York with a companion, she organized a breakfast meeting for all three parties with Weinstein. She alleged that Weinstein subsequently confined her in a hotel room, disregarded her statement that “I don’t want to do this,” ordered her to remove her clothing, and physically restrained her arms, leading her to comply because she “just wanted to get out.”

Weinstein’s previous legal representatives highlighted that Mann continued meeting with him afterward, accepting his invitations, seeking career assistance, and sending friendly communications. He has changed legal representation for this retrial, and their strategic approach remains to be determined.

Court proceedings are anticipated to continue for up to four weeks.

Every morning, preschool teacher Angela Hall begins her day by having her students sit in a circle at their Shreveport, Louisiana classroom. The children laugh together, share stories, and notice which friends aren’t present.

On Monday, one student observed: “Braylon, he’s not here,” Hall remembered.

Five-year-old Braylon Snow was among eight family members — seven siblings and their cousin — who died Sunday when their father opened fire in a tragic shooting that has devastated the Shreveport community and left educators struggling with grief.

At the Johnnie L. Cochran Head Start center where Hall teaches, students typically spot absent classmates right away during their daily routine of checking for missing friends.

“When they come back tomorrow, we can tell them, ‘Hey, we missed you, we’re glad you’re back,’” Hall explains to her students during this exercise.

However, Hall found herself unable to explain to the children that the boy she fondly called a “cool little dude” would never be coming back. She continued with the morning routine but, overwhelmed with grief, had to leave at midday.

“I’m no good to my babies right now because I just feel like I need to be in a moment of silence and just pray,” she explained.

The Head Start program has been busy preparing for graduation ceremonies scheduled for next month. Hall, who plays organ and piano at her Baptist church, composed a special song for the event.

The young students have been practicing in their caps and gowns, eagerly anticipating their transition to kindergarten this fall. Hall had been working diligently to ensure all her students were prepared for this milestone.

During Thursday’s morning arrival, Hall had excitedly told Braylon’s mother about his progress, sharing how he was now writing both his first and last names. The boy had also become more self-sufficient, pouring syrup on his pancakes independently and remembering to wash his hands without prompting.

“Braylon doesn’t give me any problems,” she had told his mother just days earlier.

Each day, Braylon would greet Hall — whom students called “Mrs. Hall” — with a gentle wave.

Throughout the school year, she had coaxed more smiles from the boy. He enjoyed outdoor playtime, engaging in games of chase and tag, and even some “a little wrassling,” which made her chuckle to recall.

“He was for the majority of the time kind of a quiet little soul in the classroom,” she reflected. “When he did get a little extra energy or something, it was just a joy to see him smile and laugh.”

Sunday changed everything. After attending church services, Hall visited her mother’s home, where she discovered news coverage of the shooting.

The massive scale of casualties initially seemed incomprehensible to her. When she learned Braylon was among the victims, along with one of his brothers who had attended Head Start the previous year, the reality hit hard.

“I just broke down and just started crying,” she said.

Monday morning brought another emotional moment when she made eye contact with a parent during drop-off. With young children present, neither adult could speak about what had happened.

“I just immediately broke down,” she recalled. The parent and a teaching assistant also became emotional.

Hall is now turning to her religious faith for comfort, praying for the victims, their families, and fellow educators.

“And I’m just praying for all the educators that were connected to these children because it’s tough because my parents’ babies, they become my babies. And I treat them like they’re my own. So I’m just really praying that he sustains us all during this time.

“Just give us that strength.”

A California man has entered a guilty plea in connection with a devastating wrong-way collision that resulted in the death of a Los Angeles County sheriff’s recruit and left numerous others injured during a training exercise.

Nicholas Gutierrez, 25, of Diamond Bar, California, admitted guilt on Monday to charges including vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and nine counts of reckless driving causing injuries, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. The court sentenced him to an eight-year suspended prison term along with five years of probation.

The incident occurred over three years ago in 2022 when Gutierrez’s SUV crossed into oncoming traffic in the Whittier area, striking 25 law enforcement recruits who were participating in a morning training run. At the time of the collision, 76 recruits from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and various local police departments were running together in formation along the roadway.

Investigators concluded that Gutierrez had apparently dozed off behind the wheel before the crash occurred. The collision left ten recruits with severe injuries, including Alejandro Martinez, who succumbed to his injuries eight months following the incident.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman described the guilty plea as representing “a step toward justice and a measure of closure for the victims and their families whose lives have been forever changed.”

Efforts to reach Gutierrez’s former defense attorney, Alexandra Kazarian, for comment were unsuccessful.

Comedy news website The Onion has submitted a fresh proposal to temporarily control the digital platforms belonging to conspiracy broadcaster Alex Jones while his media company undergoes liquidation proceedings stemming from massive defamation awards exceeding $1 billion to Sandy Hook shooting victims’ families.

According to a Monday filing with a Texas state judge, The Onion seeks an exclusive temporary license to operate the intellectual property of Free Speech Systems, Jones’ parent company. This arrangement would allow the satirical publication to publish its own material across Infowars’ website and social media channels.

The Onion’s CEO Ben Collins indicated the arrangement could take effect by April 30 if Austin Judge Maya Guerra Gamble gives approval. Collins revealed his company has already brought on staff to transform Infowars into a comedy platform, including comedian Tim Heidecker from the Tim and Eric comedy partnership known for Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim programming.

“We’ll build this into a bigger comedy network,” Collins explained during a Monday phone conversation, noting that Sandy Hook families would benefit financially from the new venture’s earnings.

“A big part of it for us is that the way people consume news now is they see somebody who has no idea what the (expletive) they’re talking about staring into their camera and just like coming up with conspiracy theories or telling you health hacks that will actually get you poisoned, things like that,” he said. “We’re going to create a bunch of characters and worlds around those kinds of things.”

Following the 2012 Sandy Hook massacre that claimed the lives of 20 young students and six staff members in Newtown, Connecticut, Jones falsely characterized the tragedy as a fabricated event involving paid actors designed to promote stricter gun regulations. Numerous family members of victims, plus an FBI investigator who worked the scene, filed lawsuits against Jones and his business for defamation and causing emotional harm.

During his Monday broadcast, Jones promised to challenge the licensing arrangement in court while recognizing he and his team might be forced from their current facility by month’s end. He indicated plans to continue broadcasting from an alternative studio he’s establishing, with shows streaming on his personal X profile and other emerging social platforms and websites, plus dozens of radio outlets. He’s also established separate websites for his product sales, including nutritional supplements and apparel that generate millions annually.

“I’m going to continue the exact same show,” he said. “It’ll just be called the ‘Alex Jones Show.’ So, it’s the same satellite, same system. It’s a different news site and news studio. So I’m not going anywhere.”

The proposed Onion licensing agreement would span six months with renewal options for an additional six-month period while a court-designated receiver works toward eventually selling Free Speech Systems’ assets and distributing proceeds to Sandy Hook families. The receiver backs this proposal, which requires The Onion to contribute $81,000 monthly for building rent housing Infowars’ studios, plus utilities and additional expenses.

During 2022 defamation trial proceedings in Connecticut, victims’ family members described how individuals they identified as Jones supporters targeted them with death and sexual assault threats, face-to-face intimidation, and hostile social media messages related to the false claims. Jones maintained no evidence connected him to others’ actions.

A Connecticut jury and judge granted the families and FBI agent damages exceeding $1.4 billion. In separate Texas litigation, parents of a Sandy Hook victim received nearly $50 million. Jones challenged both verdicts. His Connecticut appeal failed, while his Texas appeal remains active.

Jones declared bankruptcy in late 2022. During those proceedings, a November 2024 auction aimed at liquidating Infowars’ assets to satisfy defamation judgments resulted in The Onion being declared the successful bidder. However, the bankruptcy judge invalidated the auction outcome, pointing to procedural issues and problems with The Onion’s offer.

Efforts to liquidate Infowars’ assets subsequently transferred to Texas state court, where Guerra Gamble designated a receiver to handle Jones’ company’s asset liquidation. Jones is also challenging that decision, which has temporarily halted the liquidation process.

Legal representation for the Sandy Hook families involved in the Connecticut lawsuit confirmed their backing of The Onion’s proposal.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Defense attorneys argued Monday that federal authorities have charged an innocent man in connection with the devastating 2021 suicide bombing at Kabul’s airport that claimed nearly 200 lives during America’s turbulent exit from Afghanistan.

Mohammad Sharifullah faces accusations of reconnaissance work for the bomber who targeted the airport, resulting in the deaths of approximately 13 American military personnel and 160 Afghan civilians as the United States concluded its two-decade military presence in the region.

During opening statements at the Virginia federal courthouse, defense counsel Geremy Kamens maintained his client played no part in the terrorist plot and argued that Sharifullah’s admission of guilt was coerced.

“The U.S. government got the wrong man,” Kamens told the jury. “That is why we are proud to represent Mohammad Sharifullah in this trial.”

Federal prosecutor John Gibbs presented a different narrative, describing how Sharifullah, who also goes by Jafar, expressed violent intentions against American forces to a reporter, referring to them as invaders who entered his homeland following the September 11 attacks.

“The feeling was just to catch the crusaders and kill them,” Sharifullah reportedly stated to the journalist, according to Gibbs.

The defendant allegedly admitted to federal investigators that he became affiliated with ISIS-K, the regional Islamic State faction, around 2016. While denying direct involvement in planning the airport attack, Sharifullah reportedly acknowledged participating in numerous other operations for the terrorist organization, prosecutors said.

President Trump revealed Sharifullah’s apprehension during his March 2025 State of the Union speech. The suspect was transported to American soil the following day to face federal charges that could result in a life sentence upon conviction.

A panel of twelve jurors plus three alternates was selected Monday for the federal proceeding in Alexandria, where Sharifullah stands accused of providing material assistance to a designated terrorist group that resulted in fatalities. Court officials expect the trial to conclude within approximately one week.

The devastating attack occurred on August 26, 2021, as American forces coordinated massive evacuation efforts at Kabul’s airport. A single suicide bomber detonated an explosive device near the facility’s Abbey Gate entrance, killing 13 U.S. military personnel and roughly 160 Afghan nationals.

An investigation conducted by U.S. Central Command identified the Abbey Gate attacker as Abdul Rahman al-Logari, an Islamic State operative who had been freed from an Afghan detention facility by Taliban forces. According to FBI documentation, Sharifullah identified the bomber as someone he had encountered during his own imprisonment.

Congressional testimony from a former Marine revealed that he and fellow service members had observed two individuals acting suspiciously on the morning of the bombing but were denied authorization to intervene. The Central Command investigation ultimately determined that the snipers had not spotted the actual bomber and that the attack could not have been prevented.

The tragic incident sparked intense criticism of President Biden’s administration regarding the management of America’s Afghanistan withdrawal after twenty years of conflict. During his successful presidential campaign, Trump frequently condemned Biden’s handling of the chaotic evacuation and held him responsible for the Abbey Gate casualties.

The Justice Department dismissed one of the prosecutors working on the Abbey Gate case last year following public criticism from a conservative media personality regarding his service during the Biden presidency. Michael Ben’Ary’s removal was part of a wider elimination of Justice Department officials considered insufficiently aligned with Trump’s Republican administration.

Authorities also accuse Sharifullah of involvement in additional ISIS-K operations. Federal investigators claim he provided weapons training before other group members executed a March 2024 assault on a Moscow entertainment venue that resulted in approximately 140 deaths.

Defense attorney Kamens suggested his client made false admissions while under pressure during detention in Pakistan. The lawyer proposed to jurors that the airport bombing may have been facilitated from within by Taliban sympathizers who controlled airport security operations that day.

“The Pakistanis wanted him to confess, and their intelligence service tortures people,” Kamens stated.

Thirteen people aboard a hot air balloon got an unexpected close-up view of a California family’s backyard Saturday when their pilot was forced to make an emergency touchdown in Temecula.

Hunter Perrin had no clue about his surprise visitors until a neighbor knocked on his door to deliver the startling news. The massive balloon, carrying a pilot and dozen passengers, touched down flawlessly on Perrin’s narrow strip of grass.

“I was watching TV and my wife was doing yoga,” Perrin explained to The Associated Press. “There was a man standing in front of my door saying, ‘They just landed.’ What? I was very confused.”

The anxious group of travelers found themselves relieved to reach solid ground in Perrin’s compact backyard, which measures just 10 feet across.

“It was unbelievable, like something out of a Disney fairy tale,” Jenna Perrin remarked. “The balloon didn’t hit our house or our trees. It was kissing the fence.”

Among the passengers were Brianna Avalos and her spouse, who had chosen the balloon ride to mark their decade of marriage. According to Avalos, the pilot announced the need for an emergency touchdown due to insufficient fuel and changing wind conditions.

“At first I was like, ‘Oh my God! We’re in a backyard! This is crazy!’” Avalos shared with KABC-TV.

The striking blue balloon, decorated with golden stars and a crescent moon design, created quite a sight as it settled into the yard, dwarfing the Perrin residence. After helping all passengers exit safely, the pilot took the balloon back up and set it down on a nearby street for dismantling.

“He was an amazing pilot,” Avalos praised.

Denni Barrett, who owns Magical Adventure balloon company, chose not to reveal the pilot’s identity but commended his decision-making skills, saying he had “exercised great judgment” and “done the right thing.”

“Most of our landings are in wine country,” Barrett noted, speaking about the typical vineyard locations in Riverside County. “Usually they’re bigger backyards.”

SHREVEPORT, La. — In what marks the nation’s most devastating mass shooting in more than two years, a 31-year-old Louisiana man murdered eight children, seven of whom were his own offspring, while also injuring his wife and another woman during a Sunday morning rampage.

The tragic events unfolded across two residential locations in a Shreveport neighborhood, with the perpetrator identified as Shamar Elkins. Following the attacks, Elkins perished during a high-speed chase that concluded when law enforcement officers opened fire, according to police officials.

Authorities have yet to establish a clear motive behind the killings, though relatives indicated that Elkins and his spouse were going through a separation. Community advocates are now demanding action on domestic violence issues as the tragedy continues to impact the city, particularly affecting schools where the victims were students.

The violence commenced in the early morning hours within a neighborhood located south of Shreveport’s downtown area.

Emergency dispatchers received their initial call at approximately 5:55 a.m. from someone reporting they were positioned on a rooftop where a shooting victim was located, according to Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith. Within five minutes, authorities were informed that Elkins had opened fire on everyone inside the residence on 79th Street.

Troy Brown, who is Elkins’ brother-in-law, revealed that his spouse and 12-year-old daughter managed to flee by climbing onto the home’s roof.

Law enforcement personnel responded rapidly, but at 6:07 a.m., dispatchers received another emergency call regarding a second assault on nearby Harrison Street. The caller reported being shot by Elkins before he escaped the scene, Smith explained. Police subsequently learned the shooter had taken a vehicle, sparking a chase that ultimately resulted in gunfire.

Approximately one hour after the first emergency call, Elkins was declared deceased. Smith noted that investigators have not determined whether the gunman was killed by police bullets or took his own life.

Legal documents reveal that Elkins received probation in 2019 following a guilty plea for unlawful weapon use. The police report from that incident stated Elkins discharged five shots at a vehicle, later telling officers that someone inside had threatened him with a firearm.

Louisiana state law prohibits individuals convicted of illegal weapon use from possessing firearms for a minimum of 10 years following completion of their sentence and probation period. Police spokesman Chris Bordelon stated that investigators were unaware of previous domestic violence incidents involving Elkins.

Officials have not disclosed how or where Elkins acquired the firearm used in Sunday’s attack.

Military records show Elkins enlisted in the Louisiana National Guard from 2013 to 2020, achieving the rank of private without any overseas deployments, a guard representative confirmed. His military roles included signal support system specialist and fire support specialist.

Brown disclosed that Elkins had voluntarily admitted himself to a Department of Veterans Affairs medical facility in January for slightly more than a week. He noted that Elkins seemed “better when he came home” and appeared normal just one day prior to the shooting.

The child victims ranged from 3 to 11 years old. In addition to Elkins’ seven children, his nephew was also killed, the Caddo Parish coroner’s office confirmed.

Relatives portrayed the shooter’s wife, Shaneiqua Elkins, as a devoted mother who took pride in her children’s academic achievements and ensured they were well-dressed for family gatherings.

Francine Monro Brown, a cousin of Shaneiqua Elkins, shared that she frequently observed the children enjoying themselves in their yard on Sunday mornings while driving to church services. She described them as “happy” and “joyful.”

Crystal Brown, a relative of one of the shooting victims, explained that Elkins and his wife were in the process of separating and had been having disputes about their marriage before the tragedy occurred.

This Shreveport incident represents the most fatal shooting in the United States since January 2024, when eight individuals were killed in a Chicago-area community, based on data compiled by The Associated Press and USA Today working with Northeastern University.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal judge ruled Monday that Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez will not be released from custody, citing concerns that he may attempt to flee before trial. Mendoza sustained multiple gunshot wounds when Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers opened fire during his arrest in April.

The 36-year-old man, who holds citizenship in both El Salvador and Mexico, faces federal charges for allegedly assaulting an officer. Authorities claim he struck an ICE agent’s vehicle with his car and then backed into another law enforcement vehicle during a traffic stop on April 7.

Defense attorney Patrick Kolasinski argues that his client acted out of panic when ICE agents surrounded his vehicle and had no intention of harming anyone. Kolasinski also challenges government assertions that Mendoza was a suspected gang member sought by Salvadoran authorities for murder-related questioning.

According to his legal team, court records from El Salvador show Mendoza was cleared of murder charges, and he has consistently denied any gang affiliation.

Mendoza has required multiple surgical procedures to treat his gunshot injuries.

The Department of Homeland Security maintains that ICE officers discharged their weapons in self-defense after Mendoza attempted to drive toward them. The incident occurred in Patterson, located approximately 75 miles southeast of San Francisco, during what DHS described as a targeted enforcement operation.

This shooting is part of a pattern of similar incidents that occurred during heightened immigration enforcement efforts under the Trump administration. Several of these cases have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the use of force, with some incidents involving video evidence that contradicted initial official statements.

Mendoza’s case is set to return to court in early May.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A wildfire burning through northeast Florida forced major disruptions to Amtrak passenger rail service on Monday, with multiple routes canceled or rerouted due to safety concerns.

Officials suspended the Auto Train service that typically runs between Sanford, Florida near Orlando and Lorton, Virginia in the Washington area for Monday. This popular route allows travelers to bring their vehicles along for the journey.

The Silver Meteor line, which normally connects Miami with New York City, was modified to begin and end in Jacksonville rather than continuing to South Florida on Monday. Railway officials also scrapped one of the route’s two daily departures scheduled for Tuesday.

Similarly, the Floridian line that travels from Miami to Chicago through Washington was rerouted to start and finish in Savannah, Georgia, with one of its Tuesday runs also eliminated.

To assist stranded passengers, Amtrak arranged bus transportation between Jacksonville and Miami for those affected by the Silver Meteor and Floridian route changes on Monday.

The Florida Forest Service reported the wildfire has consumed approximately 2,700 acres along the boundary between Putnam and Clay counties, located south of Jacksonville in the state’s northeastern region.

A 70-year-old pilot remains hospitalized in critical condition after his small aircraft went down Monday morning in the parking area of a California auto parts retailer, fire department officials report.

Emergency responders received the crash report at approximately 11 a.m. at an O’Reilly Auto Parts location in Pacoima, a neighborhood in northern Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed.

Fire crews pulled the elderly man from the wreckage and transported him to a nearby medical facility where he remains in serious condition. Authorities verified that no passengers were aboard the aircraft and no additional people sustained injuries in the incident.

Images captured by area media outlets reveal the aircraft completely inverted in the store’s parking area, positioned mere feet from customer vehicles. The front section of the plane sustained significant damage in the impact.

The aircraft struck electrical power lines during the incident, prompting law enforcement to clear out surrounding businesses and homes as a precautionary measure, authorities reported.

George R. Ariyoshi, who broke racial barriers by becoming America’s first Asian American state governor, passed away Sunday evening at the age of 100.

The longtime Hawaii leader died peacefully with his family by his side, current Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced Monday. Ariyoshi served as the island state’s chief executive for 13 years, from 1973 through 1986.

“Governor Ariyoshi devoted his life to Hawaiʻi with humility, discipline and an unwavering sense of responsibility to the people he served,” Green said. “He led our state during a pivotal moment with quiet strength and integrity, and his legacy as a trailblazer and public servant will endure for generations.”

The Democratic politician initially assumed the governor’s office in October 1973 when Governor John Burns became seriously ill with cancer. Ariyoshi had been serving as lieutenant governor after winning that position three years earlier.

He secured the governorship in his own right during the 1974 election and successfully defended it twice more, in 1978 and 1982. Current Hawaii law limits governors to two terms, but no such restriction existed during Ariyoshi’s tenure.

His political ascent paralleled the Democratic Party’s emergence as the dominant force in Hawaiian politics. The Democrats seized legislative control from Republicans in 1954, the same year Ariyoshi claimed his first victory for the Territorial House of Representatives, serving two terms there.

In 1958, he captured a territorial Senate seat and transitioned to state senator when Hawaii achieved statehood the following year. Ariyoshi continued his state Senate service through three additional election cycles in 1964, 1966, and 1968 before ascending to lieutenant governor.

Born George Ryoichi Ariyoshi on March 12, 1926, he entered the world in modest circumstances in a small two-room apartment near Honolulu Harbor. His parents had emigrated from Japan, settling in the working-class Kalihi district close to downtown Honolulu.

His father Ryozo had been a sumo wrestler in Fukuoka Prefecture before becoming a dock worker and dry cleaning business owner in Hawaii. His mother Mitsue originated from Kumamoto, Japan.

In his 1997 memoir titled “With Obligation to All,” Ariyoshi reflected on childhood challenges including a speech impediment.

“The fact that we had no money did not seem to be a barrier, but I had a barrier of a different kind,” he wrote, explaining his determination to become an attorney if he could overcome his speaking difficulties.

After completing his studies at McKinley High School in 1944, Ariyoshi enlisted with the U.S. Army’s Military Intelligence Service, working as an interpreter in Japan during the final phase of World War II.

Post-war, he initially enrolled at the University of Hawaii before transferring to Michigan State University, where he completed his bachelor’s degree in history and political science in 1949. He subsequently obtained his law degree from the University of Michigan Law School in 1952.

During his mainland education, Ariyoshi found acceptance rather than discrimination. “On the contrary, I enjoyed the fact that Hawaii had a reputation even then for people of different backgrounds coming together and living harmoniously,” he noted in his autobiography.

He established his legal practice in Hawaii in 1953, the year following his law school graduation. When elected lieutenant governor, Ariyoshi stepped away from private law practice and resigned from various corporate board positions.

His motivation for seeking higher office stemmed partly from a commitment to advancing minority representation.

“The new state of Hawaii had produced United States representatives and senators of Caucasian, Chinese and Japanese ancestry, reflecting our diversity,” he explained. “But only Caucasians had been governor.”

During Ariyoshi’s gubernatorial years, Hawaii experienced explosive tourism growth and rapid population expansion. “I was convinced that neither our infrastructure nor our environment would support this rate of growth,” he recalled.

A memorable moment occurred in 1975 when Ariyoshi and his wife Jean Hayashi Ariyoshi attended their inaugural National Governor’s Conference in Washington, D.C. President Gerald Ford invited them to a formal White House dinner.

As described in Jean Ariyoshi’s book “Washington Place: A First Lady’s Story,” while the couple danced together, she whispered to him: “Look at the little girl from Wahiawa dancing at the White House.”

His response was: “And she’s dancing with the kid from Kalihi.”

John Waiheʻe, who served as Ariyoshi’s lieutenant governor starting in 1982, succeeded him as governor in 1986 with Ariyoshi’s endorsement, becoming the first person of Native Hawaiian heritage to hold the office.

Ariyoshi leaves behind his wife Jean, daughter Lynn, and sons Donn and Ryozo.

A pair of Southwest Airlines aircraft narrowly avoided a midair collision Saturday evening at Nashville International Airport when an air traffic controller’s instructions placed the jets on a dangerous collision course.

The close call occurred around 5:30 p.m. when one aircraft was attempting a second landing approach due to gusty wind conditions while another Southwest plane was departing from a parallel runway. Audio recordings from LiveATC.net reveal that both pilots received collision avoidance system warnings and immediately took corrective action, with one aircraft climbing and the other descending to prevent impact.

Flight tracking data indicates the aircraft came within roughly 500 feet of each other, with one jet passing directly over the other. According to FlightRadar24 information, this distance meets the official criteria for a near midair collision, though investigators will determine the exact separation during their review.

The incident began when the pilot of Southwest flight 507 executed a go-around maneuver due to windy conditions and received air traffic control instructions to turn. However, this direction put the aircraft directly in the path of another Southwest jet that had just become airborne. When the controller recognized the danger and instructed the departing plane to remain below 2,000 feet, the pilot reported already exceeding that altitude.

This near-miss comes less than a year after a tragic collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington, D.C., which claimed 67 lives on January 29, 2025. That crash highlighted concerns about midair collisions, though such incidents remain uncommon in commercial aviation due to sophisticated collision avoidance technology.

Most annual close calls involve smaller aircraft lacking these safety systems, while several actual collisions occur yearly among general aviation planes, including a February 2025 Arizona crash that resulted in two fatalities.

The Federal Aviation Administration has launched an investigation into Saturday’s incident. Agency officials confirmed that flight 507 “received instructions from air traffic control that put the flight in the path of another airplane that was departing from a parallel runway. Both flight crews responded to onboard alerts.”

Southwest Airlines spokesperson Lynn Lunsford praised the pilots’ response to the emergency situation. “Southwest appreciates the professionalism of its pilots and flight crews in responding to the event. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of our customers and employees,” Lunsford said in a statement.

The spokesperson confirmed that windy conditions at Nashville International Airport necessitated the initial go-around attempt and that both flight crews properly followed air traffic control directions and collision avoidance system guidance to prevent a catastrophic outcome.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — What began as an arranged altercation between teenagers turned into deadly gun violence Monday morning at a Winston-Salem park, claiming two lives and wounding multiple others, according to law enforcement officials.

The fatal incident unfolded approximately 10 a.m. at Leinbach Park, located close to Jefferson Middle School, Winston-Salem police announced on social media.

Multiple individuals sustained gunshot wounds, with two victims dying from their injuries, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation confirmed in an official statement.

Assistant Chief Jason Swaim of Winston-Salem police explained that two young people had arranged to meet at the park location for a physical confrontation. During the altercation, a weapon was fired, Swaim stated, which “resulted in multiple victims being shot.” Law enforcement has identified “numerous people” connected to the incident, though investigators continue working to establish each person’s role, including whether they were perpetrators, victims or witnesses.

Swaim assured the community that educational institutions in the vicinity of the park remained secure and confirmed that Jefferson Middle School parents were able to retrieve their children from the school.

The violent episode took place in a park situated within a suburban residential neighborhood in the northwestern section of Winston-Salem, a municipality with approximately 250,000 residents historically recognized as the headquarters of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.

MADISON, Wis. — More than 100 animal rights advocates gathered at Wisconsin’s state Capitol on Monday, shouting demands to “Free the dogs!” as they pressed Governor Tony Evers and the attorney general to close down a beagle breeding operation that sparked violent clashes with law enforcement over the weekend.

Approximately 1,000 demonstrators from across the nation descended on Ridglan Farms in the rural community of Blue Mounds on Saturday, attempting to liberate roughly 2,000 beagles housed at the facility located about 25 miles southwest of Madison. Law enforcement officers responded with tear gas, non-lethal projectiles and pepper spray to disperse the crowd. According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Department, authorities took 29 individuals into custody.

Several activists who participated in Saturday’s confrontation returned to the state Capitol on Monday to criticize how police handled the situation. Some displayed injuries they claimed resulted from being struck by rubber bullets.

Police officers stationed outside the hallway leading to the offices of Governor Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul distributed constituent contact forms to Wisconsin residents among the crowd of more than 100 demonstrators.

Neither Evers nor Kaul responded to requests for comment immediately. Officials from their offices did not address the protesters directly, though some activists held photographs showing Evers, Kaul and U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin with dogs.

Aidan Kankyoku, who helps lead the Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs that coordinated the campaign, said organizers hoped both officials would end their silence regarding the breeding operation. Kankyoku explained that activists also wanted Kaul to obtain and execute a search warrant at the location to examine claims of continuing animal abuse.

“We just want the dogs out,” he said.

While Ridglan has rejected accusations of animal mistreatment, the company agreed in October to surrender its state breeding permit by July 1 under an agreement that avoided criminal prosecution for animal abuse allegations. The facility’s website states that “no credible evidence of animal abuse, cruelty, mistreatment or neglect at Ridglan Farms has ever been presented or substantiated.”

According to Ridglan, the company has operated as a biomedical research center “that supports health studies benefitting both humans and animals” for over six decades. The facility’s website indicates that almost all current research focuses on advancing veterinary medicine.

Ridglan officials did not respond to email requests for comment on Monday.

Demonstrators maintained they were conducting a peaceful rescue operation on Saturday when officers forced them back.

In March, activists broke into the facility and removed 30 dogs. Twenty-seven people faced arrest on trespassing and additional charges.

Democratic U.S. Representative Mark Pocan posted on social media Monday, urging state leaders to collaborate with Ridglan on a release strategy that wouldn’t overwhelm animal placement organizations and would prevent the beagles from being put down. Last week, Pocan questioned U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. during a House Appropriations Committee session about federal funding directed to groups that obtain beagles from Ridglan Farms.

Kennedy responded that he found Pocan’s statements difficult to believe but promised to investigate the matter.

NEW YORK — During a sweltering summer afternoon in Brooklyn, designer Michaela Stark stepped into an unusual photography session that would transform how one of the world’s premier museums displays fashion.

Wearing only her distinctive corsetry designs, Stark positioned herself within a circle of 175 cameras that captured every angle of her form through a sophisticated technique called photogrammetry. The purpose was to create digital scans for building mannequins destined for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s prestigious spring exhibition.

“It was definitely a bit nerve-wracking,” Stark remembers about the “intimate and vulnerable” session. However, she adds with humor, “something about being naked on a 40-degree (Celsius) day in a corset that isn’t hiding anything kind of takes the awkwardness away from the situation, actually.”

These specially crafted mannequins will appear in “Costume Art,” the Costume Institute’s spring exhibition launching with the celebrated May 4 gala. The project represents a deliberate move toward body inclusivity in a display examining how the human form has been portrayed through clothing across centuries, explains curator Andrew Bolton.

Traditional fashion mannequins typically reflect a women’s size 2, Bolton observes. These innovative displays, which will complement conventional forms, aim to highlight how art history has overlooked or dismissed certain physiques — including larger bodies, disabled forms, and aging figures. These excluded types deserve recognition in the narrative as well. The exhibition features approximately 400 pieces, split evenly between artistic works and garments from the museum’s archives, presented in matching pairs.

The objective involved “to challenge a history of museum mannequin display that’s very much characterized by thin, abled and standardized bodies,” Bolton explains. Instead of modifying existing displays, curators chose to base new mannequins “on a diverse range of real bodies with real, lived experiences.”

Beyond Stark, Bolton enlisted participants including Sinéad Burke, an Irish disability advocate born with dwarfism; Aimee Mullins, an athlete, performer, and activist who uses prosthetic legs; and Aariana Rose Philip, a musician and model who relies on a wheelchair. Nine individuals contributed to creating 18 new mannequins, while seven additional forms represent shapes like pregnancy and slender male physiques without being modeled on specific people.

These 25 innovative mannequins won’t face retirement when the exhibition concludes. After “Costume Art” closes in January 2027, they’ll become part of the museum’s permanent inventory for ongoing use.

This lasting impact excites Stark, who has designed pieces for Beyoncé and operates her own body-positive lingerie brand called Panty. Her three mannequins will showcase her original creations in the Reclaimed Body and Corpulent Body galleries.

Stark has consistently employed corsetry methods in non-traditional ways. While corsets historically shaped bodies toward conventional beauty standards, Stark applies identical techniques “to actually emphasize those parts of the body that we’ve been conditioned to hide. It’s using the corsets to bring back power to the female form.”

The designer believes her involvement in the Met’s showcase arrives at a critical time, as fashion industry dedication to body diversity seems to be retreating.

“It’s a really interesting moment in time for the Met to be doing this show because obviously we’ve seen the complete rapid decline of the body positivity industry,” she observes. “Designers left, right, and center are just starting more and more to refuse to work with plus-size models.” Recent data from a Vogue Business Size Inclusivity Report supports her observations, documenting decreased plus-size representation on runways across four major Fashion Week locations for Fall/Winter 2026.

Burke agrees, describing that regression as “shameful and embarrassing.”

Her organization, Tilting the Lens, works to position disabled individuals in leadership roles throughout the industry — “whether they are creative directors and designers, whether they’re CEOs, whether they are chief marketing officers,” she explains.

Burke, attending the Met Gala as a host committee member, posed for two mannequins for the Disabled Body section — one wearing a custom Burberry trench coat, another in a Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren dress.

“You stood in this cage of cameras,” she described the modeling process. “It’s deeply uncomfortable and really vulnerable in the sense that you are in your skin and in very little else … your body is photographed, observed, recorded from every angle, angles which you yourself may not even be familiar with.”

Despite the discomfort, she embraces participating in the exhibition, particularly the chance to advise the museum on respectful disability representation. This includes careful word choices. “There’s so many ways in which we could have called the disabled body something else, using euphemisms that create a distance from being disabled,” she noted.

Burke also participates in educating museum guides and volunteers, helping them “make people feel seen, challenge people gently, and have a broader conversation about the connection between embodiment, fashion and art.”

The scanning process at Brooklyn’s New York Capture marked just the initial step. Artist Frank Benson transformed the scans into digital modeling material, shaped to better accommodate the garments. Italian company Bonaveri then manufactured the physical mannequins from the digital specifications.

All mannequins in “Costume Art” — numbering just over 200 — feature another distinctive element: polished steel surfaces that function like mirrors, allowing visitors to see their own reflections.

Bolton explains the concept involves viewing both the person the mannequin represents and yourself simultaneously.

Additionally, roughly one-third of the mannequins stand on elevated platforms, while others remain at floor level. Burke’s mannequin receives pedestal placement, which Bolton says was deliberate.

“Andrew, my entire life, I’ve been looked down on, both literally and metaphorically,” Bolton recalls the activist telling him. She expressed deep appreciation that people would now — literally — look up to her.

The exhibition will certainly include traditional body forms, and Bolton emphasizes the goal “is not to reject what came before.”

“We’re using it as an opportunity to add new voices and new silhouettes and new presences,” he states. “The figures don’t deny the past, but in a way, I suppose they complete the picture.”

MILL HALL, Pa. — Tragedy struck a central Pennsylvania community Sunday morning when an explosion and house fire claimed the lives of seven family members, including a mother and her six young children.

Emergency crews rushed to a residence in Lamar Township, Clinton County, after receiving reports of a blast and flames. When firefighters arrived, they discovered seven people were trapped inside, but the intense fire prevented any rescue attempts, according to Pennsylvania State Police officials. The victims have been identified as 34-year-old Sarah Stolzfus and her children — four boys aged 11, 10, 5, and 3 years old, along with two girls, ages 8 and 6.

Investigators are working to determine what sparked the deadly incident. State police believe a propane leak within the house may have triggered the explosion and subsequent fire. Officials noted that propane tanks located outside the home did not detonate and were ruled out as factors in the tragedy.

A nearby resident, Christina Duck, described the terrifying moment to WNEP-TV, saying she was having breakfast when the explosion occurred. “And I heard a boom and I could feel it and I got up and looked out the window and I could see the flames through the windows and I come running outside and within a minute the whole house was completely engulfed,” Duck recalled. She mentioned that the family had recently moved to the neighborhood just a few months earlier and that she frequently observed the children playing outdoors.

Law enforcement officials have successfully located Stanley Mathis, leading to the cancellation of the Gold Alert that had been issued in connection with his disappearance.

The Gold Alert system is designed to assist in locating missing vulnerable adults, similar to how Amber Alerts help find missing children. When someone meeting specific criteria goes missing, authorities can activate the alert to enlist public assistance in the search efforts.

No additional details about the circumstances of Mathis’s disappearance or his current condition have been released by authorities at this time.

NEW YORK — Efforts to remove books from public libraries across the nation have reached unprecedented levels, with organized political movements driving most challenges rather than concerned local parents, according to new data from the American Library Association.

The library association released its yearly compilation of most frequently challenged books on Monday as part of its comprehensive report on America’s libraries. Patricia McCormick’s 2006 work “Sold,” which tells the story of human trafficking for sexual exploitation in India, claimed the number one spot for 2025. The list also features Stephen Chbosky’s coming-of-age story “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” Maia Kobabe’s illustrated personal account “Gender Queer,” and Sarah J. Maas’ fantasy romance “Empire of Storms.”

This year’s compilation expanded beyond the typical ten titles to include eleven books, with four works sharing the eighth position: Anthony Burgess’ futuristic tale “A Clockwork Orange,” Ellen Hopkins’ family story “Identical,” John Green’s prep school novel “Looking for Alaska,” and Jennifer L. Armentrout’s supernatural romance “Storm and Fury.”

Complaints against these works center on LGBTQ+ content (“Gender Queer,” “The Perks of Being a Wallflower”), depictions of sexual assault (“Sold” and “A Clockwork Orange”), and substance use portrayals (“Looking for Alaska”). The association’s intellectual freedom office documented objections to 4,235 distinct titles, falling just short of the 4,240 recorded in 2023, which represents the highest figure since tracking began over three decades ago.

According to the association’s definition, a challenge constitutes “an attempt to have a library resource removed, or access to it restricted, based on the objections of a person or group.” The announcement coincides with National Library Week, continuing through April 25.

“Libraries exist to make space for every story and every lived experience,” stated ALA President Sam Helmick. “As we celebrate National Library Week, we reaffirm that libraries are places for knowledge, for access, and for all.”

The organization gathers its data through news coverage and direct reports from libraries. Officials acknowledge the true scope likely exceeds these figures since many incidents go unreported.

Historically, objections to library materials originated from individual parents or community members. However, recent years have witnessed a dramatic transformation toward coordinated efforts by government authorities and conservative advocacy groups like Moms for Liberty, who promote “parental choice” in determining what educational institutions and libraries should offer.

States including Florida, Texas, and Utah have enacted legislation restricting books or called for widespread removals. Earlier this month, an Iowa appeals court upheld state law preventing teachers from discussing LGBTQ+ subjects with elementary students through sixth grade while prohibiting certain books.

More than 90% of last year’s challenges originated from activist organizations and government officials, the ALA reports, up from 72% in 2024.

“In 2025, book bans were not sparked by concerned parents, and they were not the result of local grassroots efforts,” explained Sarah Lamdan, who heads the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom. “They were part of a well-funded, politically-driven campaign.”

Lamdan explained to The Associated Press that advocacy groups distribute target lists of books across the country. Supporting findings from PEN America’s previous research documenting multiple bans of titles like “Sold” and “A Clockwork Orange,” the ALA discovered that actual book removals — exceeding 5,600 — far surpassed the number of formal challenges.

“I think this reflects the reality that these lists are getting disseminated widely,” Lamdan noted. “You can see video footage from various library board meetings where the same books are singled out over and over again.”

The complete ranking includes:

1. “Sold” by Patricia McCormick
2. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky
3. “Gender Queer: A Memoir” by Maia Kobabe
4. “Empire of Storms” by Sarah J. Maas
5. (tie) “Last Night at the Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo
5. (tie) “Tricks” by Ellen Hopkins
7. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
8. (tie) “A Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess
8. (tie) “Identical” by Ellen Hopkins
8. (tie) “Looking for Alaska” by John Green
8. (tie) “Storm and Fury” by Jennifer L. Armentrout