Latest Alexandra Koch News | ӣ��Ƶ

AOC tells New Yorkers to ‘pull up’ to Alabama during rally speech behind bulletproof glass

Sat, 23 May 2026 23:50:51 -0400

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., is taking heat from southern conservatives after she delivered a fiery speech in Montgomery, Alabama, last week, demanding that northern progressives "pull up to the South."

Speaking at the "All Roads Lead to The South" rally on May 16, the prominent "Squad" member claimed the U.S. was not a true democracy until the 1960s when the Voting Rights Act was passed, and took direct aim at the Supreme Court, accusing the high court under Chief Justice John Roberts of being "part of that long history of regression and repression in America."

Ocasio-Cortez then issued a highly controversial call to action, demanding that "the North" travel to red states like Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Tennessee and Mississippi to fight what she described as political injustice.

She doubled down on social media following the event, writing, "If you're not from these states, it's time to pull up."

AOC SLAMS ‘OPPRESSED’ TRUMP STATES WHILE TOUTING NYC SERVICES DESPITE $5B DEFICIT AND TRANSIT CRIME SPIKE

Her rhetoric was quickly slammed by conservatives on social media, with many pointing out the irony of the congresswoman urging people to "pull up" while she stood heavily protected during her speech behind bulletproof glass.

Conservative podcaster Todd Spears went viral with a TikTok reaction video that racked up 1 million views, mocking Ocasio-Cortez's security setup.

"[Pull up] and do what? Help us get the boat off the trailer, like cut the grass, track a deer in the woods?" Spears said. "Roll up and do what exactly? Because you're standing behind, like, pope glass in your own hometown. You come down here starting that s---, you better bring a tank. That's not a good idea. You stay where you're at."

AOC SPENT OVER $53K IN CAMPAIGN FUNDS ON LUXURY HOTELS IN 2025: 'CARPETBAGGER'

Spears also criticized the divisive nature of her remarks, writing in the video caption that "AOC talking about the North 'rolling up' on the South and Alabama, like this is still the 1860s, is wild."

"Maybe politicians should spend less time trying to divide Americans and more time fixing the mess we already have," he added.

Another TikTok creator, Kei Bennett, whose video garnered more than 800,000 views, warned Ocasio-Cortez's supporters not to take the bait.

"I want to issue a stern warning so you do not take her advice and pull up on Alabama," Bennett said, jokingly citing local dangers ranging from wild hogs and bayou gators to locals who "will not hesitate to unite and get you the f--- up out of here."

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Bennett, who has more than half a million followers on the platform, warned the congresswoman's followers that "down here in the South we don't call cops, we call coroners," adding, "Stay your a-- up there, leave us alone. We ain't bothering nobody."

Ocasio-Cortez's office did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment.

Gunman dead after opening fire near White House checkpoint, Secret Service says

Sat, 23 May 2026 18:44:49 -0400

Multiple sources confirmed to ӣ��Ƶ Digital the male gunman who allegedly opened fire with a pistol Saturday near the White House in Washington, D.C., and was fatally shot by the U.S. Secret Service, has been identified as Nasire Best, 21, of Maryland.

At about 6 p.m. local time, the suspect allegedly approached a Secret Service checkpoint near 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, removed a weapon from his bag and began firing at posted officers, a Secret Service spokesperson said.

Best, who allegedly had prior encounters with the Secret Service and a history of mental health issues, fired about three shots toward the executive mansion before he was taken down by Secret Service agents, according to a senior administration official with direct knowledge of the incident.

The White House was placed on lockdown, which was later lifted.

WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' DINNER SHOOTING SHARPENS FOCUS ON TRUMP’S BALLROOM CONSTRUCTION PROPOSAL

An adult bystander on the street was shot in the exchange and their condition is unknown, the senior official said.

As many as 30 shots were reportedly heard in the direction of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building.

The senior official said the suspect never got inside the general perimeter of the White House grounds.

Best was detained by the Secret Service on June 26, 2025, for flagging down agents and making threats, and again on July 10, 2025, for entering a restricted area, ӣ��Ƶ has learned.

All members of the Secret Service were reported safe, though one uniformed agent was taken to the hospital as a precaution.

SECRET SERVICE IN LINE OF FIRE AT WHCA SHOOTING STILL UNPAID DUE TO DEM-LED SHUTDOWN

President Donald Trump praised the response to the shooting near the White House in a Truth Social post early Sunday.

"Thank you to our great Secret Service and Law Enforcement for the swift and professional action taken this evening against a gunman near the White House, who had a violent history and possible obsession with our Country’s most cherished structure," he wrote. "The gunman is dead after an exchange of gunfire with Secret Service Agents near the White House gates."

Trump said the shooting underscored the need for stronger security protections around the White House.

"This event is one month removed from the White House Correspondent Dinner shooting, and goes to show how important it is, for all future Presidents, to get, what will be, the most safe and secure space of its kind ever built in Washington, D.C. The National Security of our Country demands it!"

PIRRO REVEALS WHAT SUSPECT IN SECRET SERVICE SHOOTOUT ALLEGEDLY SHOUTED BEFORE OPENING FIRE BY WHITE HOUSE

FBI Director Kash Patel said his agency's agents are at the scene and "supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds."

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed it is also responding, along with the Metropolitan Police Department.

Secret Service agents were heard telling reporters to "get down," before the press were ushered into the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room in the West Wing.

Secret Service agents were seen on the White House grounds with their weapons drawn.

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Hours before the alleged gunfire rang out, Trump announced the administration was close to finalizing a deal to end the war with Iran, noting he was in the White House Oval Office.

The president was at the White House during the incident, but was not affected, according to the Secret Service.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

EXCLUSIVE: Air Force debuts historic 8-ship bomber-fighter formation over Miami Beach

Sat, 23 May 2026 18:18:24 -0400

EXCLUSIVE: The skies over South Florida roared with American military might on Memorial Day weekend as the Air Force Global Strike Command executed a historic flyover Saturday at the Hyundai Air & Sea Show in Miami Beach.

Dubbed the "Arsenal of Freedom," the unprecedented spectacle featured an eight-ship formation of dissimilar bombers and fighters soaring over a civilian air show.

The display showcased a united front, bringing together aircraft from the Air Force active duty, reserve and the Air National Guard to fly as one.

FREEDOM ISN'T FREE: HONOR THOSE WHO NEVER CAME HOME ON THIS MEMORIAL DAY

Led by a massive B-52H Stratofortress, part of the B-52 Stratofortress series, which has been used in the war with Iran, the awe-inspiring formation included some of the military's most advanced and iconic aircraft: a B-1B Lancer, A-10 Thunderbolt II, F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, F/A-18 Hornet and two F-16 Fighting Falcons.

However, the flyover was more than just a stunning visual for the thousands of patriotic Americans gathered to honor the nation's fallen.

It carried strategic weight, putting America's unique long-range strike capabilities on full public display.

EXCLUSIVE: TRUMP-BACKED MILITARY VET MOCKED FOR DISABILITY AHEAD OF MEMORIAL DAY: ‘MOST SHAMEFUL THING’

The Air Force Global Strike Command is the only long-range strike force of its kind available to the U.S. and its partners, as no other allied nation fields bombers capable of executing the mission.

Organized by the National Salute to America's Heroes, the annual Memorial Day tribute also featured thrilling parachute demonstrations and a military static display village.

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Highlighting the ongoing commitment of the next generation of American patriots, the event culminated in an enlistment ceremony swearing in more than 150 new members of the U.S. armed forces, marking one of the most significant military events of the Memorial Day season.

Trump says Iran deal ‘largely negotiated’ as 84-day war nears possible end

Sat, 23 May 2026 17:11:39 -0400

President Donald Trump announced on Saturday an agreement has been "largely negotiated" with Iran and several allied nations, signaling a nearing end to the controversial 84-day war.

The president wrote in a Truth Social post that following a "very good call" with leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan and Bahrain, the deal is nearing finalization.

"An Agreement has been largely negotiated, subject to finalization between the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the various other Countries, as listed," Trump wrote in the post. "Separately, I had a call with Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, of Israel, which, likewise, went very well."

He added final aspects and details of the deal are "currently being discussed and will be announced shortly."

FORMER WHITE HOUSE ENVOY HAS WARNING FOR TRUMP ON HOW NOT TO GET PLAYED BY IRAN

Trump also indicated a key provision of the deal involves opening the Strait of Hormuz.

The breakthrough announcement follows intense diplomatic efforts and military pressures surrounding the war with Iran.

Earlier in the day, Trump reportedly told Axios that he was a "solid 50/50" on whether he would sign a deal or resume combat operations to "blow them to kingdom come."

However, following the conference call with Arab leaders, a regional diplomat told ӣ��Ƶ the discussions were "very positive" and that regional leaders were highly supportive of "the breakthrough President Trump achieved with the talks."

PATTON OSWALT SAYS BILL MAHAR WAS WRONG TO TRY TO ‘PLACATE’ TRUMP, ARGUES IT ALWAYS BACKFIRES

The impending diplomatic agreement comes amid significant U.S. military action in the region.

U.S. Central Command recently announced a milestone of redirecting 100 commercial vessels during a weeks-long maritime blockade of Iranian ports aimed at squeezing the country economically.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously signaled negotiators were making progress, emphasizing that any resolution would require Iran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open without tolls and surrender its enriched uranium.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Newsom declares state of emergency in Orange County as failing chemical tank nears catastrophic explosion

Sat, 23 May 2026 16:22:36 -0400

Emergency crews launched a high-stakes "offensive" overnight mission at a Southern California aerospace facility to neutralize an adjacent chemical tank, as the internal temperature of a failing primary tank has steadily climbed to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency Saturday and the evacuation of over 40,000 residents.

Orange County Fire Authority Incident Commander Greg Covey shared the "bad news" Saturday morning that crews who went into harm's way overnight and manually checked the failing tank's internal temperature gauge, which had been obscured from drone cameras by cooling water.

The temperature had reached 90 degrees, rising by an average of one degree per hour since it was recorded at 77 degrees on Friday morning.

Orange County Fire Authority Interim Chief T.J. McGovern and Covey previously warned there are only two catastrophic outcomes: The tank could fail and spill between 6,000 and 7,000 gallons of "very bad chemicals," or undergo "thermal runaway" and explode, potentially triggering a chain reaction with neighboring fuel and chemical tanks.

SHOCKING VIDEO SHOWS GIANT BLACK PLUME OF SMOKE RISING FROM TENNESSEE PLASTIC RECYCLING FACILITY FIRE

The primary goal of the overnight operation, conducted with the support of a chemist team, was to neutralize a 15,000-gallon tank, removing its explosive potential in case the neighboring 7,000-gallon tank detonates, according to Covey.

Despite the rising temperatures, officials have developed a potential third outcome to avoid disaster.

By using a heavy, continuous deluge of water, crews hope the volatile chemical will "cure" and harden at a slower rate from the outside in, similar to an ice cube.

TWO INJURED AFTER EXPLOSION RIPS THROUGH CHEMICAL PLANT, SPARKING HAZMAT RESPONSE, SHELTER-IN-PLACE ORDER

Covey said the team is hoping the void space at the top of the tank will absorb the overpressure from the curing process, preventing an explosion.

Simultaneously, crews are preparing aggressive contingency plans in case the tank fails and spills liquid.

Responders are establishing diking and damming measures to divert the potential fluid down a grade into a commercial holding area.

OKLAHOMA AMMONIA GAS LEAK PROMPTS HUNDREDS OF EVACUATIONS AS AT LEAST 36 PEOPLE HOSPITALIZED

The diversion would prevent the toxic chemical from reaching storm drains, river channels and the ocean, preventing an "environmental disaster."

"Letting this thing just fail and blow up is unacceptable to us," Covey said, noting that experts from across the country are consulting on the crisis.

Covey said Saturday evening that firefighters were beginning to shift from a defensive to an offensive operation and were entering the hazard area to try to mitigate the issue "at great personal risk."

Newsom declared a state of emergency Saturday afternoon, allowing resources to flow to the scene.

The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services has been mobilized for more than 24 hours and state agencies are supporting impacted communities to protect public safety and assist local officials as response efforts continue, Newsom wrote in a statement on X.

COMMERCIAL BUILDING EXPLODES IN NEW JERSEY, MULTIPLE PEOPLE INJURED AND REMAIN IN CRITICAL CONDITION

Officials with the EPA and the South Coast Air Quality Management District said Saturday evening that pollutant levels around evacuation zones remained normal.

The emergency began Thursday night when authorities discovered methyl methacrylate (MMA) — a volatile and flammable plastic epoxy — leaking from a storage tank at GKN Aerospace in Garden Grove, a facility that manufactures engine structures and products for commercial and military aircraft.

Firefighters initially put critical cooling measures in place and the situation was initially believed to be under control, allowing residents to temporarily return home.

The crisis severely escalated by Friday morning, and by 5 p.m. local time, crews had successfully used a "water curtain" to temporarily stabilize the temperature, buying experts time to brainstorm solutions.

"We are not giving up," Covey said Saturday morning. "We are going to do everything we can to mitigate this, protect your residences, protect our environment and get you back home."

WORKERS KILLED AND MANY TREATED AFTER REFINERY CHEMICAL RELEASE AS INVESTIGATORS PROBE CAUSE

Garden Grove Police Chief Amir El-Farra announced that an expanded evacuation zone was implemented to protect the public from the imminent threat. Displaced families have been directed to numerous emergency evacuation centers.

OCFA Division Chief Nick Freeman presented a map Saturday showing multiple "blast zones" extending outward from the tank, including an innermost zone described as posing a risk of "severe structural damage and significant harm."

Freeman said the next zone carried the potential for moderate blast damage capable of causing structural damage and injuries, followed by a lighter damage zone where impacts would be more limited.

He also outlined expanding hazard zones tied to potential flash fires and dangerous air conditions, with outer areas considered nonhazardous.

Health officials warned of severe risks if the chemical tank ruptures.

Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong of the Orange County Health Care Agency said if the chemical reacts and temperatures rise, it can create a highly toxic vapor.

STUDENT ADMITS TO RELEASING TOXIC GAS IN DORM, FORCES EVACUATIONS HOURS AFTER FBI TERRORISM QUESTIONING

"My biggest concern is that if that vapor goes into the air, and people inhale that, it causes significant damage," Chinsio-Kwong said, warning it can cause severe respiratory issues and irritation to the eyes, nose and lungs.

"No matter what happens with the situation, whether the polymer just leaks out and then just hardens, or if it does explode and there is a vapor, you are all safe as long as you are out of the zone," she continued.

She later added that officials do not expect health impacts outside the evacuation zone and said residents outside the area do not need to wear masks.

Rep. Derek Tran, D-Calif., released a statement saying he is closely monitoring the situation alongside local officials.

Tran confirmed he is in contact with federal disaster relief officials, including FEMA and the EPA.

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FEMA and the EPA did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

At least 1 killed, 34 firefighters and EMS workers injured in 'major' Staten Island shipyard explosion: FDNY

Fri, 22 May 2026 19:23:02 -0400

A "major" explosion and fire at a Staten Island shipyard Friday afternoon left dozens of New York City Fire Department (FDNY) firefighters and first responders injured, and one civilian dead.

FDNY EMS deputy assistant chief Ian Swords confirmed during a news conference Friday night that one civilian died at the scene and 34 members of the FDNY were taken to local hospitals.

The two most seriously injured patients were a fire marshal, who is in critical condition, and a firefighter, who is in serious condition. They both suffered "blast energy" during the explosion, which can cause internal damage.

Richmond University Medical Center said the fire marshal has a temporal fracture and a small brain bleed and remains in critical condition. Doctors are monitoring the firefighter for subsequent muscle injury.

NYC SEWAGE BOAT EXPLOSION IN HUDSON RIVER KILLS 1 CITY WORKER, INJURES 2 OTHERS

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani updated the situation after 9 p.m. on Friday, saying the fire was now "under control."

"Today, a fire broke out on Richmond Terrace on Staten Island, followed soon after by reports of an explosion," he wrote on X. "What unfolded was a fast-moving emergency that claimed one life and left more than 30 civilians and first responders injured. The fire is now under control."

He continued, "We mourn the life that was lost today, and we hold their family in our hearts. Tonight I visited a firefighter in serious condition, as well as the family of a fire marshal who remains in critical condition. I ask every New Yorker to keep those injured — and their families — in your thoughts. To the first responders who rushed toward danger without hesitation: thank you. As you do every day, you put yourselves in harm’s way so others could escape. Our city owes you a debt of gratitude."

The incident unfolded when authorities received a call at 3:27 p.m. local time reporting workers trapped in a confined space at 3075 Richmond Terrace, between Lockman and Andros avenues.

When first responders arrived, they found smoke and a fire burning in the basement of a 150-by-150-foot metal building situated at the back of the shipping docks.

Two workers were reportedly trapped and crews entered to search for them, according to FDNY Chief John Esposito.

A second alarm was transmitted at 4:08 p.m., and just 11 minutes later, a "major explosion" tore through the site at 4:19 p.m.

HISTORIC NYC CHURCH ENGULFED IN 5-ALARM BLAZE AS 6 FIREFIGHTERS INJURED BATTLING STUBBORN FLAMES

The blast triggered a large fire and massive emergency response, with the FDNY deploying 68 units and 212 fire and EMS personnel to combat the blaze.

"We had firefighters inside conducting searches, and on top of the barge and adjacent to the barge," Esposito said. "We had several that were injured. We did recover a deceased civilian."

He said the fire was under control and all searches were conducted, as of 8 p.m. local time.

No one is unaccounted for and there will be an ongoing investigation, Esposito confirmed.

Mamdani also expressed his gratitude to every first responder who rushed to the scene in the press conference.

"As the fire grew, first responders did what they always do. They ran towards danger, so others could escape to safety," Mamdani said during the news conference. "Firefighters responded from all across our city. This has been an all-hands-on-deck response … I commend each of them for their quick response and for their courage."

"… Once the fire has been extinguished, FDNY marshals will hold a comprehensive investigation into its cause," he added. "The information that yields will then be shared with New Yorkers as soon as we have it. In the meantime, I want to ask New Yorkers to keep those who have been injured, and the person we lost, in our thoughts and to wish them a quick recovery."

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New York Attorney General Letitia James reacted to the tragedy on X, noting she is praying for everyone injured in the fire.

"I’m praying for the @FDNY firefighters and everyone injured after the explosion in Staten Island today," James wrote in a post. "Thank you to the FDNY for their swift response and for protecting New Yorkers every day."

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

California officials warn massive chemical tank will likely spill thousands of gallons or 'blow up'

Fri, 22 May 2026 18:20:17 -0400

Fire officials issued urgent evacuation orders Friday for a Southern California community as emergency crews scrambled to manage an enormous chemical tank that is "actively in crisis" and threatening to spill or explode.

During an emergency news conference, Orange County Fire Authority Interim Chief TJ McGovern said crews have been working around the clock at GKN Aerospace, a facility that builds engine structures and other products for commercial and military aircraft, after discovering a large tank off-gassing toxic fumes.

On Thursday night, authorities determined methyl methacrylate (MMA), a volatile and flammable plastic epoxy used to create parts for the aerospace industry, was leaking from the 34,000-gallon storage tank and firefighters put critical cooling measures in place, according to a report from affiliate FOX 11 Los Angeles.

20 CHEESE FACTORY WORKERS INJURED AFTER CHEMICAL SPILL AT NEW MEXICO FACTORY RELEASES TOXIC GAS: POLICE

While officials initially believed the situation was under control, allowing residents to return home, the crisis severely escalated by Friday morning.

"We have determined that the tank that is in the biggest crisis is in fact unable to be secured and mitigated," said Incident Commander and Orange County Fire Division Chief Craig Covey.

Officials are now bracing for one of two catastrophic outcomes: The tank could fail, spilling between 6,000 and 7,000 gallons of "very bad chemicals" into the surrounding parking lot and area, or the tank could go into "thermal runaway" and explode, triggering a chain reaction with neighboring tanks containing fuel and other hazardous chemicals, according to Covey.

TWO INJURED AFTER EXPLOSION RIPS THROUGH CHEMICAL PLANT, SPARKING HAZMAT RESPONSE, SHELTER-IN-PLACE ORDER

"We are setting up these evacuations in preparation for these two options: It fails, or it blows up," Covey said.

He noted that while there is currently no active gas leak or toxic plume, residents must heed the warnings immediately out of an abundance of caution.

Expected timelines for the potential leak or explosion were not provided.

WORKERS KILLED AND MANY TREATED AFTER REFINERY CHEMICAL RELEASE AS INVESTIGATORS PROBE CAUSE

Garden Grove Police Chief Amir El-Farra said an expanded evacuation zone has been implemented to protect the public from the imminent threat.

"Community safety is our highest priority, and we want to see this come to a successful resolution, but we need your help," El-Farra said.

Two emergency evacuation centers have been set up for displaced families in Garden Grove and Cypress.

Local law enforcement and mutual aid partners remain at the scene to monitor the situation.

No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed, as of 1 p.m. local time.

Rep. Derek Tran, D-Calif., said he is closely monitoring the toxic leak and his office is in close contact with local police, fire and emergency response officials.

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"I am in contact with federal disaster relief officials, including FEMA and the EPA, to urge them to provide any available federal assistance for Garden Grove," Tran wrote in a statement. "I encourage everyone in the affected area to follow guidance from local authorities and avoid the impacted zones until further guidance is issued."

FEMA and the EPA did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

DOJ vows to appeal after judge dismisses smuggling charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia as 'vindictive'

Fri, 22 May 2026 18:10:47 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) vowed to appeal a federal judge's decision Friday to dismiss human smuggling charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who initially entered the U.S. illegally and allegedly had suspected ties to MS-13, slamming the ruling as "wrong and dangerous."

U.S. District Judge Waverly D. Crenshaw Jr. on Friday threw out a two-count indictment in Tennessee against Abrego Garcia, ruling the DOJ's actions amounted to "vindictive and selective prosecution" in violation of the Fifth Amendment's Due Process Clause.

Abrego Garcia was facing charges after allegedly conspiring to smuggle roughly 600 illegal immigrants into the U.S. annually, between 2016 and 2025, according to a cooperating witness.

FEDERAL PROSECUTOR ADMITS 'EXTRAORDINARY' TIMING IN ABREGO GARCIA SMUGGLING CASE CHARGES

"Another activist judge has placed politics above public safety," a DOJ spokesperson told ӣ��Ƶ. "The judge’s order is wrong and dangerous, and we will appeal."

The federal investigation was initially sparked by a November 2022 traffic stop in Tennessee and included suspected ties to the MS-13 gang and human trafficking.

The case became a constitutional standoff after the executive branch deported Abrego Garcia to El Salvador in March 2025 due to an alleged "administrative error."

MARYLAND IMMIGRANT WRONGLY DEPORTED TO EL SALVADOR MUST RETURN TO US, SUPREME COURT RULES

Abrego Garcia sued the government, and the judicial branch — ultimately backed by the Supreme Court — unanimously ordered his return be "facilitate[d]" to the U.S.

Crenshaw, an Obama appointee, noted that just days after the Supreme Court's ruling, the Department of Homeland Security suddenly reopened a closed investigation into Abrego Garcia's 2022 traffic stop.

TENNESSEE BODYCAM OF ‘MARYLAND MAN’ TRAFFIC STOP SHOWS TROOPERS' HANDS TIED DESPITE SMUGGLING CLUES

Top Justice Department officials, under the leadership of Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, then pushed for an indictment, according to court documents.

In his 32-page memorandum opinion, Crenshaw determined the DOJ's rapid pivot from closing the case to prosecuting Abrego Garcia was a direct retaliation for his successful civil lawsuit.

Calling it an "abuse of prosecuting power," the judge concluded "absent Abrego’s successful lawsuit challenging his removal to El Salvador, the Government would not have brought this prosecution."

As a result of the finding, Crenshaw formally dismissed the indictment and vacated Abrego Garcia's conditions of release.

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Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., who flew to El Salvador in April 2025 to meet with Abrego Garcia after he was deported to the country's "Terrorism Confinement Center" (CECOT) megaprison, hailed Friday's decision.

"Today, a federal judge made clear what we have long known: the Department of Justice was engaged in a vindictive prosecution against Kilmar Abrego Garcia," Van Hollen said in a statment. "This decision is a strong repudiation of Trump’s lawless DOJ and a win for the Constitutional rights of everyone in our nation."

Video shows moment Chicago man allegedly used SUV as weapon against ICE agent, prosecutors say

Fri, 22 May 2026 16:37:35 -0400

Newly released video shows the moment a Chicago man allegedly used his SUV as a deadly weapon to violently ram an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer's pickup truck during "Operation Midway Blitz."

Diego Emmanuel Reyes, 21, was indicted Thursday by a federal grand jury on charges of assaulting, impeding, intimidating and interfering with a federal agent and faces up to 20 years in prison.

The brazen attack allegedly happened Oct. 4, 2025, during an enforcement operation on Chicago's Southwest Side.

DHS MARKS 'ONE OF THE MOST VIOLENT DAYS' OF OPERATION MIDWAY BLITZ WITH SEVERAL ARRESTS

Reyes is accused of intentionally slamming his SUV into the rear of the ICE agent's white pickup truck while the officer was performing official duties, according to the indictment.

After the initial crash, prosecutors claim Reyes hit the gas, accelerating his SUV forward and aggressively pushing the agent's truck.

Federal authorities have condemned the alleged assault, emphasizing a strict law-and-order stance against violence targeting law enforcement.

DHS REVEALS SHOCKING 500% INCREASE IN ASSAULTS AGAINST ICE OFFICERS DURING OPERATIONS

"What this defendant did ... was a dangerous and brazen act of violence against a federal agent as well as an attack on the rule of law," U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros wrote in a statement. "The Chicago U.S. Attorney’s Office will never tolerate such conduct and will continue to hold accountable those who seek to assault, impede, intimidate, or interfere with lawful federal operations."

Douglas DePodesta, special agent-in-charge of the FBI's Chicago Field Office, echoed the demand for accountability.

"The Chicago Field Office has zero tolerance for anyone impeding federal officers engaged in their lawful functions," DePodesta said, noting that the FBI will use all available resources against those who undermine the rule of law.

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The indictment includes an enhanced penalty for the use of a deadly or dangerous weapon — the SUV — during the alleged attack, increasing the maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

An arraignment date in Chicago federal court has not yet been set.

Trump administration orders green card applicants to leave the US, apply from their home countries

Fri, 22 May 2026 13:49:54 -0400

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on Friday a major shift in immigration policy, dictating that noncitizens in the U.S. who have applied for a green card, or lawful permanent resident status, must leave the country indefinitely — even if they are in the country legally and regardless of whether they have spouses or children with citizenship.

Green card petitioners will then be required to wait for their application to be processed outside the country through consular processing via the U.S. Department of State.

USCIS said it will grant "adjustment of status" only in extraordinary circumstances, on a case-by-case basis.

CAN THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION DEPORT GREEN CARD HOLDERS? HERE’S WHAT RIGHTS THEY HAVE IN THE US

The Trump administration's position remains that when noncitizens travel into the country via student visas, tourist visas or temporary work status, they are supposed to leave once that term expires and that temporary permission to be in the U.S. should not serve as the first step toward getting a green card.

Officials claim the policy reflects the original intentions of the law, though lawsuits and litigation are expected to follow.

"We’re returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation’s immigration system properly," USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler wrote in a statement. "From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a green card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances. This policy allows our immigration system to function as the law intended instead of incentivizing loopholes."

‘SHAMEFUL’: LEGAL IMMIGRANTS FACE UPHILL BATTLE AMID ONGOING BORDER CRISIS

Kahler added that when noncitizens apply for a green card from their home country, it reduces the need to find and remove those who "decide to slip into the shadows" and remain in the U.S. illegally after being denied residency.

"Nonimmigrants, like students, temporary workers or people on tourist visas, come to the U.S. for a short time and for a specific purpose," he said. "Our system is designed for them to leave when their visit is over. Their visit should not function as the first step in the green card process.

"Following the law allows the majority of these cases to be handled by the State Department at U.S. consular offices abroad and frees up limited USCIS resources to focus on processing other cases that fall under its purview, including visas for victims of violent crime and human trafficking, naturalization applications and other priorities," Kahler added. "The law was written this way for a reason, and despite the fact that it has been ignored for years, following it will help make our system fairer and more efficient."

Critics of the policy shift argue many overstays have U.S. citizen spouses or children, pay taxes and fill labor shortages and, if removed from the country, will face long processing delays and humanitarian concerns.

It is unclear if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will begin deporting green card applicants.

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Maye Musk, Elon Musk's mother, took to X to react to the policy change.

"When I wanted to get my green card, I had to have numerous vaccinations, health tests and a lung x-ray," Maye Musk wrote in a post. "Because I was Canadian, I had to fly to Montreal to have a lung x-ray again to confirm that it’s the same person. However, when the x-ray had to be delivered to me at my friend’s home, the delivery truck was stuck on a bridge because of thick ice. I had to stay an extra day. Nothing was easy. It took another five years before I could get citizenship. Worth it."

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment.

Generational divide overshadows policy push in NYC Mayor Mamdani’s inaugural Twitch stream

Thu, 21 May 2026 20:51:14 -0400

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s attempt to connect with Gen Z voters during his first-ever Twitch stream Thursday exposed a generational divide, as the progressive leader admitted he’d never played Minecraft, struggled with internet slang and appeared unfamiliar with modern rap culture.

During the broadcast, which was also available on other social media platforms, ӣ��Ƶ Digital observed numerous Twitch viewers questioning why there were no moderators in the chatroom, as spam and explicit messages filled the message board.

When a commenter asked if the mayor plays the popular video game Minecraft, Mamdani admitted he had never played it and confessed, "I sound so old because, to me, Minecraft is a movie that I knew was based on a video game."

GEN Z LOVES BOTH TRUMP AND MAMDANI FOR THE SAME REASON

The disconnect continued when he was asked to name his favorite "underground" rapper.

The mayor admitted he felt a "little bit washed" and cited early-2000s Canadian artists like k-os and K'naan, leaving his younger co-host, popular pro-Palestinian TikTok creator "Moose," unfamiliar with the references.

Twitch has more than 240 million monthly active users, with 72% under the age of 34, according to a report from data solution company Demand Sage.

SEN SLOTKIN SAYS DEM SOCIALIST NYC CANDIDATE MAMDANI REPRESENTS 'NEW GENERATION' OF LEADERS YOUNG VOTERS WANT

Throughout the stream, Mamdani was heavily coached on internet culture, with Moose teaching him to address the audience as "chat" instead of "ladies and gentlemen," explaining the slang term "bussin" [good or impressive], and prompting him to ask viewers for "W's in the chat."

Despite the cultural disconnect, Mamdani leaned into his core democratic socialist political agenda, touting his administration's success in closing the $12 billion budget deficit by raising revenue through his controversial "pied-à-terre" tax on non-residents who own secondary homes worth more than $5 million.

He proposed further taxing the "hyper-wealthy" through a 2% income tax hike on New Yorkers making more than $1 million a year to help fund a $1.2 billion universal childcare initiative.

NEW YORK CITY IS ABOUT TO TEST MAMDANI’S PROGRESSIVE ECONOMIC VISION

The mayor also pushed several city initiatives, announcing a lottery that will allow New York City residents to purchase 1,000 World Cup tickets for just $50 each. He noted the discounted tickets come with free bus transit directly to the stadium, which he tied to his long-term goal of eventually making all public buses in New York City free and faster.

Mamdani went on to address recent severe flooding in the city, pointing to the "climate crisis" and highlighting a near-$300 million investment in "Cloudburst technology" to help the city's infrastructure absorb sudden, heavy rainfall.

The livestream was marketed as a "shameless homage" to former New York City Mayor Fiorello La Guardia, who spoke to New Yorkers on a radio show called "Talk to the People."

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The Mayor's Office later shared the recorded stream on X, with his office writing, "Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani becomes the first elected official to launch a regularly occurring, multi-platform interactive streaming series."

Mamdani's press office did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment on the success of the livestream or future moderating details.

Minnesota fraud mastermind gets nearly 42 years in prison in massive $250M 'Feeding Our Future' scheme

Thu, 21 May 2026 15:03:14 -0400

The former leader of a Minnesota nonprofit was reportedly sentenced Thursday to nearly 42 years in prison for orchestrating a $250 million pandemic relief fraud scheme.

Aimee Bock, who headed the nonprofit "Feeding Our Future," was convicted last year on charges of conspiracy, fraud and bribery.

While the organization claimed to be feeding millions of needy children during the pandemic, the Justice Department described the operation as the "single largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the country," The Associated Press reported.

A TIMELINE OF THE ‘LARGEST COVID-19 FRAUD SCHEME' IN THE UNITED STATES

Prosecutors told the court the nonprofit functioned as a "cash pipeline," relying on a web of fake distribution sites, fabricated lists of children and kickbacks.

Bock and her co-conspirators funneled the stolen taxpayer funds into lavish personal purchases, including real estate, luxury cars and international travel, the outlet reported.

During sentencing, Bock told the federal court, "I understand I failed. I failed the public, my family, everyone."

MINNESOTA RESIDENTS SLAM WALZ, STATE OVERSIGHT AFTER $250M FEEDING OUR FUTURE FRAUD

Her attorney, Kenneth Udoibok, argued she should serve no more than three years, insisting she provided critical information to investigators and was unfairly scapegoated, the AP reported.

Former lead prosecutor Joe Thompson countered that Bock "did everything she could to earn this long sentence" and that the case "changed our state forever."

The sprawling investigation has led to the convictions of dozens of people, many hailing from the state's large Somali community.

MASSIVE MEDICAID FRAUD SCHEME PUTS MINNESOTA’S FEDERAL FUNDING AT RISK — AND FALLOUT COULD WIDEN

Authorities are continuing to uncover broader social service fraud in Minnesota, with new charges filed this week against suspects accused of stealing millions through fraudulent Medicaid housing subsidies, illicit childcare center reimbursements, and more than $21 million billed for unnecessary or unprovided autism therapy.

The Feeding Our Future scheme spurred the Trump administration's surge of federal officers to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area last winter, which led to violent protests and multiple fatal federal officer-involved shootings.

President Donald Trump previously labeled the state a "hub of fraudulent money laundering activity" and claimed "Somali gangs are terrorizing the people of that great State, and BILLIONS of Dollars are missing."

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The majority of the Somali-descendant defendants are U.S. citizens, according to the AP.

Maduro's alleged 'bag man' Alex Saab arrested less than 3 years after Biden pardon: report

Sat, 16 May 2026 21:55:00 -0400

Alex Saab, a 54-year-old Colombian businessman and close ally of captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, was reportedly deported after his February arrest in a joint U.S.-Venezuelan operation.

The development comes less than three years after former President Joe Biden pardoned and released Saab in a controversial 2023 prisoner swap.

The high-profile arrest highlights a new level of cooperation between U.S. authorities and Venezuela's interim President Delcy Rodríguez.

MADURO ALLY ALEX SAAB ARRESTED IN JOINT US-VENEZUELAN OPERATION, OFFICIAL SAYS

Following Maduro’s capture in a January U.S. military raid, Rodríguez stripped Saab of his cabinet position and his role as the main conduit for foreign investments, according to a report from The Associated Press.

If returned to U.S. custody, Saab could become a crucial star witness against Maduro, who is currently awaiting trial on drug charges in Manhattan.

Court hearings previously revealed that Saab held secret meetings with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for years, helping them identify corruption within Maduro’s camp.

VENEZUELA ORDERS NATIONWIDE MANHUNT FOR SUPPORTERS AFTER MADURO'S ARREST BY US FORCES

Described by U.S. officials as Maduro’s "bag man," Saab was previously detained in 2020 on bribery charges, with U.S. officials alleging he siphoned $350 million out of Venezuela, according to the AP.

While Biden's 2023 pardon was focused on a specific 2019 indictment over unbuilt low-income housing, Saab still faces active federal investigations over alleged bribery conspiracies involving Venezuelan food import contracts.

The Venezuelan immigration authority confirmed a "Colombian citizen" was being sent away due to U.S. criminal investigations, but avoided confirmation of his destination to bypass Venezuelan laws prohibiting the extradition of its own nationals, the AP reported.

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The U.S. Department of Justice and Saab’s lawyer, Neil Schuster, did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital's Landon Mion and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Trump shares stunning photos of Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool renovation, says project is ahead of schedule

Sat, 16 May 2026 20:29:57 -0400

President Donald Trump on Saturday shared photos of a sample test at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, which is undergoing renovations ahead of America's 250th anniversary and expected to be completed by July Fourth.

The images showed the basin with the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in the background at each end.

Blue skies and white fluffy clouds could be seen in the water's reflection.

"Looking really good! Should be completed before the Fourth of July, our target date," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Saturday afternoon.

TRUMP WORKING TO CLEAN 'FILTHY' LINCOLN MEMORIAL REFLECTING POOL, BLAMES BIDEN FOR MAINTENANCE DELAYS

Trump added the administration has "substantially upgraded construction materials, including surface qualities, sandblasting granite, and exterior stone and walkways."

"I’ve made this a much larger job than originally contemplated for purposes of Beauty, and a much longer life," Trump wrote in the post. "Also, went to a higher quality sealer with more reflectivity. Check it out before the Opening — It’s a very exciting project!"

Critics have voiced concerns over the pool resurfacing with "industrial-grade" material in the color "American flag blue," with a nonprofit called the Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF) going so far as to file a lawsuit against the National Park Service (NPS) to halt the project.

TRUMP TAKES MOTORCADE INTO REFLECTING POOL, BLASTS PAST ‘$38M DISASTER’ FIX UNDER OBAMA

"The vivid blue coating will fundamentally alter the visual and experiential character of the pool and the broader Lincoln Memorial Grounds landscape," the group wrote in a complaint obtained by Politico. "The new coloration will cause the pool to resemble a large swimming pool rather than the reflective civic landscape it was designed to be, distorting the experience of the site for the millions of visitors who come to it each year."

When asked Saturday about the new photos shared by the president, TCLF president and CEO Charles A. Birnbaum told ӣ��Ƶ Digital "the primary issue is whether the law was followed before the painting began."

"Since the Reflecting Pool is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, reviews of work that would alter a key character-defining feature of this important national symbol should be subject to reviews under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act; and this project should have been reviewed by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, as other work on the Reflecting Pool has been reviewed over the past century," Birnbaum said.

The TCLF is a national, D.C.-based education and advocacy organization, not a preservation organization.

TRUMP LAUNCHES MASSIVE ‘FREEDOM 250’ PUSH TO IGNITE AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

In a separate Truth Social post earlier Saturday, Trump noted he has "decided to go to a much higher level of repair, using industrial strength materials, which will give a longer life, and a better look," adding the job is "ahead of schedule."

The president's repeated references to the materials used and expected completion date follow the publication of a New York Times article on Tuesday that alleged U.S. Department of the Interior staff highlighted concerns about the presence of bubbles, small holes and color inconsistencies in the partially refinished surface.

Further, the outlet claimed to have documents showing that as of Sunday, only 35% of the pool surface had been fully coated and crucial joints had not yet been replaced — insinuating the job may not be completed in time for Independence Day.

Interior Department spokesperson Katie Martin told The Times that sections of the basin were in various stages of repair.

"The final product will be uniform, as the plan depicts," Martin said. "As with any project, there will be revisions to the process to ensure the most efficient tools are used to get to the end goal."

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White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers told ӣ��Ƶ Digital "the restoration effort will be completed ahead of America’s 250th celebrations and for a fraction of the cost that the former Presidents Obama and Biden squandered only to worsen its condition. Thanks to President Trump, the Reflecting Pool will be restored to all its glory!"

The Interior Department and New York Times did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

Driver identified after car plows into crowd injuring 8; passerby stabbed

Sat, 16 May 2026 13:01:48 -0400

A car reportedly drove into a crowd in the northern Italian city of Modena on Saturday, injuring at least eight people.

The vehicle slammed into a store window, and its driver, identified as Salim El Koudri, 31, allegedly stabbed a passerby who attempted to intervene.

Mayor Massimo Mezzetti told Italian TV no one was killed, but eight people were injured, including four who were in critical condition.

Mezzetti said the vehicle entered one of the city’s main streets and "drove onto the sidewalk, sending several people flying," before crashing into the shop window.

He added one woman, who was pinned against a shop window, may require the amputation of both legs.

Authorities said El Koudri was born in Bergamo and raised in Modena with Maghreb origins, is unemployed, and was known to have mental disorders. There have been no confirmed links to extremist groups.

El Koudri was detained and questioned at police headquarters as authorities worked to determine if he acted deliberately, the mayor said. There was no indication he was under the influence at the time of the wreck.

Modena Prefect Fabrizia Triolo told The Associated Press that El Koudri had "been known to local mental health services for schizoid disorders," and early findings suggested "possible mental instability."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the incident as "extremely serious" in a statement posted to X.

"I express my closeness to the injured people and their families," Meloni wrote in the post. "I also extend my thanks to the citizens who bravely intervened to stop the perpetrator and to the law enforcement agencies for their response."

Meloni said she has spoken with the mayor and remains in constant contact with the authorities to follow the developments of the situation.

"I trust that the perpetrator will be held fully accountable for his actions," she wrote.

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This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Masked suspect charged with using fuel, fireworks in Walmart kids section as cover for massive jewelry heist

Sat, 16 May 2026 17:36:01 -0400

A New Jersey man was arrested Thursday after allegedly sparking a massive fire with camping fuel and fireworks inside a Maryland Walmart, creating a terrifying diversion to pull off a $10,000 jewelry heist.

Anthony J. Rhodes, 36, of Berlin, New Jersey, was taken into custody without incident by local police and is currently sitting in a Camden County jail awaiting extradition to Maryland. His charges include first-degree arson and manufacturing an explosive device.

The chaotic scene unfolded on the night of April 29 at a store in Elkton, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office.

Security video showed a masked man entering the store with a backpack and loading a grocery cart with camping fuel and several boxes of fireworks, officials said. The suspect then parked the shopping cart next to the children's clothing section and set it ablaze.

BRAZEN BLUE STATE JEWELRY STORE HEIST CAUGHT ON CAMERA AS ARMED MOB MAKES OFF WITH $1M IN MERCHANDISE: POLICE

As the fire grew and fireworks began exploding inside the store, customers and staff scrambled for the exits.

Authorities said the suspect then smashed into the store's jewelry counter, stealing nearly $10,000 worth of merchandise before walking out and fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.

While firefighters from the Singerly Fire Company quickly extinguished the flames and contained direct fire damage to around $5,000, Walmart said the smoke, soot and subsequent cleanup resulted in $10 million in lost inventory.

2 MORE FIREBUGS CHARGED AS LA'S NEW TOUGH-ON-CRIME DA HEATS UP FIGHT AGAINST LOOTERS AND ARSONISTS

Officials said Rhodes was wearing a Jefferson University Baseball T-shirt during the heist, which investigators used to track him down.

Rhodes did not have a connection to the university or its sports teams, according to the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office.

The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Walmart Global Investigations assisted with the investigation.

"Working side-by-side with our ATF partners and Walmart Global Investigations, our team was able to identify a suspect quickly," acting State Fire Marshal Jason Mowbray wrote in a statement after the arrest. "Investigations such as these require an all-hands approach, and I am proud of everyone who was able to bring this case to a close."

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A Walmart spokesperson told ӣ��Ƶ Digital the company "appreciate[s] the partnership with law enforcement and their swift action in this investigation."

Firefighter killed in massive lumber mill explosion in Maine; at least 10 injured

Fri, 15 May 2026 14:22:02 -0400

One firefighter was killed and at least 10 others were injured in a fiery explosion Friday morning at a lumber mill in Maine.

The fallen firefighter was identified as Andrew Cross, 27, with the Morrill Fire Department, News Center Maine reported.

He was honorably transferred Saturday morning from the local medical examiner's office to a funeral home.

The fire broke out in Searsmont just after 10 a.m. Friday. The Thorndike Fire Department said multiple firefighters and civilians sustained injuries, and fire trucks were destroyed by the flames.

Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss told News Center Maine several other victims were taken to the hospital in critical condition.

One of those injured was identified as Northport Maine Volunteer Fire Department Lt. Katherine Paige.

MAINE STUDENT PASSES OUT, 11 TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AS CAUSE OF ILLNESSES REMAINS UNKNOWN

Maine State Fire Marshal Shawn Esler said during a news conference that it was mostly volunteer firefighters battling the blaze.

"I walked up to this very chaotic scene initially, and not because of the efforts of the first responders, but because of the magnitude of the fire involvement and the amount of sheer buildings that were on fire, faced with the limited resources the fire departments had," Esler said. "… I saw everybody working hand-in-hand to pull hose lines, to move apparatus, and to put water on the fire. I also saw members from state police, forest service and a bunch of various state agencies lending a hand wherever they could."

Camden Fire & Rescue confirmed it has a crew providing assistance.

"Our thoughts are with the injured, medical professionals providing care and first responders working to control the situation," the department wrote in a statement on Facebook. "We anticipate having personnel committed to helping for several days."

SMALL PLANE CRASHES INTO OHIO HOME KILLING TWO ON BOARD, IGNITING BLAZE IN RESIDENTIAL AREA

Ben Hamel, the mill's purchasing manager, told the Bangor Daily News that the fire started in an area where wood shavings are packaged. The fire then spread to a nearby dust silo, which exploded.

The cause of the fire has not yet been released.

A trooper at the scene told bystanders there was a "major fuel leak" and urged them to move away from the area, according to the outlet.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills posted on X noting she has been briefed on the unfolding situation.

"I urge folks to stay clear of the area, follow the instructions of law enforcement, and allow emergency personnel to respond," Mills wrote in a statement on X. "I ask Maine people to join me in keeping all those affected in their thoughts."

She arrived at the scene Friday night.

Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, added he is "praying for the safety and well-being of first responders and everyone else on-site."

"I’m aware of the fire and explosion in Searsmont," Golden wrote in a post on X. "I ask locals to follow law enforcement instructions, and to look to official channels and trusted sources for more information as it becomes available."

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Searsmont is a small rural town about 90 minutes northeast of Portland, and about four hours north of Boston.

Maine State Police and the Augusta Fire Department did not immediately respond to additional inquiries from ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

White House gets an unexpected buzz as thousands of bees swarm the executive mansion's North Lawn

Fri, 15 May 2026 19:39:33 -0400

The White House got an unexpected buzz Friday when thousands of bees swarmed the North Lawn weeks after first lady Melania Trump added new bee colonies to the executive mansion grounds.

Numerous black dots, later identified as a swarm of bees, were spotted on the White House near the press corps’ Pebble Beach media area on the North Lawn.

About 20 minutes later, the bees swarmed into a hive on a tree on the North Lawn of the White House.

MELANIA TRUMP'S FAMILY-FIRST MOTHER'S DAY MESSAGE SLAMMED AS ‘OUT OF TOUCH’ BY CRITICS

It is unclear what led to the swarm, though just weeks ago the first lady announced the addition of two new bee colonies to the property's existing two.

She also unveiled a new replica White House beehive on the South Lawn.

It is unclear if the bees confused the historic mansion with their new, similarly styled home.

MELANIA TRUMP'S 'SOFT POWER' ON DISPLAY IN THE WHITE HOUSE: SEE THE PHOTOS

The White House did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment.

The hive took center stage during Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla's state visit when the royal couple, both longtime supporters of beekeeping, toured the newly expanded hive with the Trumps on the South Lawn.

White House honey was also served in dishes at the state dinner.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital previously reported the colony expansion is expected to boost annual honey production by an estimated 30 pounds, allowing for even greater use in preparing White House culinary dishes, serving as official gifts from the president and the first lady and supporting charitable donations of healthy foods to local food kitchens.

NICKI MINAJ GOES WILD AFTER TRUMP AND MELANIA USE HER VIRAL SONG IN WHITE HOUSE TIKTOK

The colony can grow to roughly 70,000 bees in peak summer months, producing up to 225 pounds of honey annually.

Funded through the Trust for the National Mall, the new White House hive supports the existing colonies in pollinating the nearby White House Kitchen Garden, Flower Cutting Garden and vegetation on the National Mall.

The White House beekeeping program started in 2009 after a White House carpenter, Charlie Brandt, started keeping bees on the complex as a hobby a few years prior.

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The Office of the First Lady said the hobby has since become "a lasting tradition."

FOX Business' White House correspondent Edward Lawrence contributed to this report.

Trump admin launches 'summer surge' of feds to make DC safest city in America ahead of 250th anniversary

Fri, 15 May 2026 17:08:10 -0400

The D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force is launching a massive "summer surge" of federal law enforcement to ensure Washington, D.C., is the safest city in America ahead of the nation’s 250th Independence Day celebrations.

During a news conference Friday, leaders touted the Trump administration's success in driving down violent crime in the city since the D.C. task force launched last year.

The joint law enforcement operation has resulted in nearly 13,000 arrests, the seizure of more than 1,400 illegal guns, the apprehension of 32 murder suspects, and the recovery of 23 missing children.

Due to the aggressive enforcement efforts, overall crime in D.C. has plummeted 26%, with homicides dropping nearly 50% and carjackings down 60%. The U.S. Attorney's Office added it has secured more than 7,000 convictions over the past year.

TRUMP’S ‘NO-NONSENSE’ DC CRACKDOWN TOPS 10K ARRESTS AS DOJ DECLARES ERA OF ‘UNCHECKED VIOLENCE IS OVER’

Officials said a focal point of the summer surge will be crushing the "teen takeovers" that have terrorized D.C. neighborhoods and shut down local businesses.

Blasting the D.C. Council for "refusing to deal with the problem," U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced a zero-tolerance policy that shifts the legal burden onto the parents of delinquent youth.

Starting immediately, federal prosecutors will charge parents under a D.C. statute for contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Parents who drop their kids off, fail to supervise them or allow them to skip school to participate in the chaos will face fines, court-mandated classes and up to six months in jail.

DC US ATTORNEY SAYS ‘ENOUGH IS ENOUGH’ AS YOUTH CRIME PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON NATION’S CAPITAL

"Law-abiding taxpayers should no longer have to pay for parental neglect," Pirro said. "Parents, do your jobs or we will do ours. In the end, taxpayers will no longer subsidize the chaos caused by parental neglect."

Noting that the task force is "coming for perfection," officials said multiple federal agencies will flood the district with personnel and advanced technology to root out remaining criminal networks.

A formal request has been made for an additional 1,500 National Guardsmen to deploy to D.C., bringing the total troop presence to 5,000.

DC POLICE OFFICIALS FACE TERMINATION AFTER FEDERAL PROBE UNCOVERS ALLEGED MANIPULATED CRIME DATA BY DEPARTMENT

The task force will also deploy high-visibility patrols, drones, tactical K-9 units and helicopters to curb crime.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) said it will ramp up resources to target out-of-state drug trafficking cartels, arguing that drug dealers should be "treated like terrorists."

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) said it will increase operations to seize illegal firearms being trafficked into the city from Maryland and Virginia.

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Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will double its special agents on the streets to target identity theft and those who fraudulently obtain housing without paying rent.

In a stark warning to anyone planning political violence in the capital, Pirro said offenders will face "the full wrath of the law," announcing her office filed notice to seek the death penalty against Elias Rodriguez, 31, the suspect accused of murdering two young Israeli embassy staff members at the Capitol Jewish Museum on May 21, 2025.

Cuba says CIA chief Ratcliffe met with officials in Havana amid US tensions

Thu, 14 May 2026 18:03:14 -0400

CIA Director John Ratcliffe met with counterparts from Cuba's Ministry of the Interior on Thursday during a high-level visit to the island nation amid "complex bilateral relations" between the long-time adversaries.

A CIA official told ӣ��Ƶ correspondent David Spunt that Ratcliffe met with Cuban officials including Raulito Rodriguez Castro, Minister of Interior Lazaro Alvarez Casas and the head of Cuban intelligence services in Havana to "personally deliver President Trump’s message that the United States is prepared to seriously engage on economic and security issues, but only if Cuba makes fundamental changes."

During the meeting, the official said Ratcliffe and Cuban officials discussed intelligence cooperation, economic stability and security issues, all against the backdrop that Cuba can no longer be a safe haven for adversaries in the Western Hemisphere.

DEM REPRESENTATIVE ADMITS TO WORKING WITH MEXICO TO SNEAK OIL INTO CUBA, DESPITE BLOCKADE

Sources told ӣ��Ƶ Ratcliffe emphasized that the U.S. is extending a genuine opportunity for collaboration, and as evidenced by Venezuela, President Donald Trump must be taken seriously.

The Cuban government wrote in a statement that its delegation presented evidence attempting to "categorically demonstrate that the island poses no threat to U.S. national security," arguing Cuba should not remain on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism.

The dialogue presents Cuba with a rare chance to stabilize its failing economy and deliver for its people, but the window of opportunity will not stay open indefinitely, sources said. The Cuban government must decide whether to seize the moment or continue down an unsustainable path that only leads to deeper isolation and instability.

RUBIO SAYS CUBA NEEDS ‘NEW PEOPLE IN CHARGE’ AS BLACKOUTS, UNREST GRIP ISLAND

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced on social media Thursday the country may be willing to accept $100 million in humanitarian aid offered by the U.S.

"Our country's experience in receiving international aid, including from the United States, is extensive and constructive," Diaz-Canel wrote on X. "Any donor can testify to that reality. If there is truly a willingness on the part of the United States government to provide aid in the amounts it announces and in full conformity with the universally recognized practices for humanitarian assistance, it will encounter no obstacles or ingratitude from Cuba, however inconsistent and paradoxical the offer may seem to a people that the United States government itself punishes collectively in a systematic and ruthless manner."

"The priorities are more than evident: fuels, food, and medicines," he continued. "Incidentally, the damage could be alleviated in a much easier and more expeditious way by lifting or easing the blockade, as it is well known that the humanitarian situation is coldly calculated and induced…"

While the director emphasized Trump prefers dialogue, sources said the Cubans should have no illusions that the president will not enforce redlines.

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This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Small plane crashes into Ohio home killing 2 on board, igniting blaze in residential area

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:27:11 -0400

Emergency crews are responding after a small plane crashed Thursday into a home in Ohio, killing two people on board and sparking a large fire.

The crash took place at about 3:45 p.m. local time in a residential neighborhood about 15 minutes south of downtown Akron, and heavy, black smoke was reported in the area, the City of Akron Fire Department confirmed to ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

The two people on board were found dead inside the Piper PA-28 aircraft, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Fire officials evacuated the affected home and a nearby home, reporting no injuries on the ground.

Crews remain at the scene.

AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHT CATCHES FIRE IN DENVER

It is unclear what led to the crash, as of 6 p.m. local time.

Topgolf Akron, which is located across the street from the crash site, told ӣ��Ƶ Digital it is "actively working with local authorities as they assess the scene and investigate."

"The safety of our guests and team members is our top priority, and the venue has been evacuated," a Topgolf spokesperson said. "We have no further details to share at this time, given the ongoing nature of the investigation, and our primary focus remains on the safety and support of all impacted during this time."

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate.

The NTSB did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment.

SMALL PLANE CRASHES NEAR HICKS AIRFIELD IN TEXAS, REPORTEDLY CAUSING MULTIPLE SEMI-TRUCK FIRES

American Winds College of Aeronautics, a local flight school, confirmed all of its airplanes are safe in their hangars and accounted for.

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"American Winds is deeply saddened to hear of a plane crash which has just occurred near the Akron Fulton Airport this afternoon," the school wrote in a Facebook post. "We pray for the pilot, anyone on board and their families."

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

FBI offers $200K reward for former Air Force intelligence agent accused of spying for Iran

Thu, 14 May 2026 15:10:12 -0400

The FBI announced Thursday it is offering a $200,000 reward for information leading to the apprehension and prosecution of Monica Witt, a former U.S. service member and counterintelligence agent who was indicted by a federal grand jury in the District of Columbia in February 2019 on charges of espionage, including transmitting national defense information to the Iranian government.

Witt, a former active-duty U.S. Air Force intelligence specialist and special agent for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, served in the military between 1997 and 2008, before working as a U.S. government contractor until 2010, according to a news release from the FBI Washington Field Office.

The 47-year-old's military service and contracting employment provided her access to secret and top secret information relating to foreign intelligence and counterintelligence, including the true names of U.S. Intelligence Community undercover personnel.

Officials allege that in 2013, Witt defected to Iran and provided information to the country's government, placing sensitive and classified U.S. national defense information and programs at risk, according to the indictment.

FORMER FAA CONTRACTOR PLEADS GUILTY TO SPYING FOR IRAN, SHARING PRIVATE INFO ON US AIRPORTS, ENERGY INDUSTRY

She allegedly intentionally provided information endangering U.S. personnel and their families stationed abroad, and conducted research on behalf of the Iranian regime to allow them to target her former colleagues in the U.S. government.

The FBI said Witt’s defection to Iran has benefited the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has elements responsible for intelligence collection, unconventional warfare and providing direct support to multiple terrorist organizations targeting U.S. citizens and interests.

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While Witt has been indicted for her alleged crimes, she remains at large. She is known to speak Farsi and reside in Iran, and may be using aliases, including Fatemah Zahra or Narges Witt.

The FBI said it is continuing to actively work to find Witt and bring her to justice.

"Monica Witt allegedly betrayed her oath to the Constitution more than a decade ago by defecting to Iran and providing the Iranian regime National Defense Information and likely continues to support their nefarious activities," said Daniel Wierzbicki, special agent in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Counterintelligence and Cyber Division.

"The FBI has not forgotten and believes that during this critical moment in Iran’s history, there is someone who knows something about her whereabouts," Wierzbicki continued. "The FBI wants to hear from you so you can help us apprehend Witt and bring her to justice."

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Anyone with information about Witt is asked to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips can also be shared with local FBI offices, the nearest American embassy or consulate, or submitted via tips.fbi.gov.

US Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks abruptly resigns, ӣ��Ƶ learns

Thu, 14 May 2026 11:53:31 -0400

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks told ӣ��Ƶ on Thursday he is resigning, effective immediately.

"It's just time," Banks told ӣ��Ƶ correspondent Bill Melugin.

"I feel like I got the ship back on course from the least secure, disastrous, chaotic border to the most secure border this country has ever seen," he said. "Time to pass the reigns, 37 years, it's time to enjoy the family and life."

Banks has previously detailed his upbringing in the small town of Warner Robins, Georgia. He said he was raised primarily by his grandmother, who was on a fixed income, as his single mother struggled to raise his two older half-sisters.

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To help his grandmother pay the bills, Banks said he began working full-time in the summers and part-time during the school year picking peaches, working alongside migrant farmworkers.

According to an interview published on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website, Banks said the experience had given him a deep sense of humility and compassion, teaching him what it takes to support a family.

Banks enlisted in the military at 17 years old and served for a decade in both combat and peacetime, overseas and in the U.S., primarily in law enforcement roles.

After hearing stories from CBP agents, Banks applied to the agency in 2000.

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Over his 23 years in the Border Patrol, Banks held numerous leadership positions and worked in many units, including ATVs, horse patrol, bikes, boats, tunnel team, investigations and prosecutions.

Frustrated by what he described as the "destruction" of morale and border security during the first two years of the Biden administration, Banks retired from the Border Patrol and went to work for the state of Texas.

He said he watched the situation deteriorate further before returning to lead the agency as chief under the second Trump administration.

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It is unclear who will replace him.

The White House, U.S. Department of Homeland Security and CBP did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's requests for comment.

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

Three hospitalized in Napa County as California's fatal wild mushroom outbreak continues to spread

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:18:31 -0400

Three adults were rushed to hospitals over the weekend after consuming toxic wild mushrooms in Napa County, California, prompting health officials to renew urgent warnings this week about a fatal statewide outbreak.

Two lethal mushroom species, the death cap (Amanita phalloides) and western destroying angel (Amanita ocreata), have poisoned at least 47 people and claimed four lives since mid-November, according to the California Department of Public Health.

A dozen California counties have been affected, and the most recent outbreak was fueled by wet weather.

CALIFORNIA HEALTH OFFICIALS ISSUE URGENT WARNING TO MUSHROOM FORAGERS AFTER DEADLY POISONING OUTBREAK

"Poisonous mushrooms can look and taste similar to safe mushrooms, and even experienced mushroom hunters have been affected by this outbreak," Napa County Public Health Officer Christine Wu wrote in a statement.

"State health officials also caution that newly arrived residents might fatally mistake these toxic California fungi for safe varieties they are accustomed to foraging in their home countries."

The public health department stressed that cooking, boiling, freezing or drying toxic mushrooms will not make them safe to eat.

Symptoms often do not appear until 6 to 24 hours after ingestion. Early warning signs include severe stomach pain, cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion and a drop in blood pressure.

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Even if initial symptoms seem to fade within a day, victims can still develop fatal liver or kidney damage or have seizures within two to three days.

Residents are asked to avoid eating wild mushrooms under any circumstances, watch children closely while they are outside, keep pets away from wild mushrooms and only purchase mushrooms from trusted grocery stores and retailers.

Those who believe they may have eaten a poisonous wild mushroom should seek emergency medical care immediately and call the California Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

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Officials said victims should also place any uneaten portions of a mushroom in a paper bag or waxed paper and refrigerate it or take photos of the cap, stem and underside to help medical experts identify the toxin.

Six illegal immigrants, including 14-year-old, found dead in shipping container along southern border

Wed, 13 May 2026 15:58:47 -0400

Texas officials announced six illegal immigrants were found dead Monday inside a shipping container along the southern border, with the train originating from California.

The Webb County Medical Examiner's Office confirmed three men, one woman and a 14-year-old boy were found dead at the Union Pacific Railyard in North Laredo.

The sixth person has not yet been positively identified.

Investigators said the deceased originated from Mexico and Honduras.

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Laredo Police Chief Miguel Rodriguez Jr. confirmed the shipping container originated from Long Beach, California, according to a report from affiliate FOX 11 Los Angeles.

Two days into its trip, the train stopped in Del Rio, Texas. From there, the group traveled to the San Antonio area where a railroad employee discovered the bodies, according to the report.

Authorities said five of the people died from heatstroke and one died from hyperthermia.

The Webb County Medical Examiner's office said ID cards and cell phones were found and fingerprints were shared with the U.S. Border Patrol’s Missing Alien Program.

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The Webb County Medical Examiner's Office is working in close coordination with the Mexican Consulate to contact the migrants' families, confirm the final identity and assist with the repatriation process.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is leading the investigation, along with the Texas Rangers and local police.

Webb County and Union Pacific did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital’s request for comment.

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