Latest Stephen Sorace News | ӣ��Ƶ

Scientists uncover identity of mysterious 'golden orb' discovered miles underwater in 2023

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:43:48 -0400

A strange "golden orb" pulled from more than 2 miles beneath the Gulf of Alaska, once rumored to be everything from an alien egg to an unknown species, has finally been identified after a yearslong scientific investigation.

Researchers with NOAA and the Smithsonian announced the unusual object, first discovered in 2023 during a deep-sea expedition, is a remnant from a rarely seen giant deep-sea anemone called Relicanthus daphneae, specifically part of the organism that anchored it to the ocean floor.

The discovery was made using a remotely operated vehicle exploring about 3,250 meters (over 2 miles) deep, where it encountered an odd golden structure attached to a rock.

The strange, mound-shaped mass with a small opening stunned scientists, who admitted at the time they had no idea what they were looking at.

SCHOOLBOY SPOTS AMERICAN REVOLUTION WARSHIP ON BEACH AFTER STORM UNCOVERS 230-YEAR-OLD WRECK

"Was it an egg case? A dead sponge? Had something crawled into it … or out of it?" scientists asked.

The unusual find quickly captured public attention, fueling speculation online and within the scientific community. But determining its identity turned out to be anything but simple.

Dr. Allen Collins, a zoologist and director of NOAA Fisheries, said scientists needed to go beyond their routine processes and enlist the expertise of multiple people to solve it.

SHOCKING DISCOVERY IN FLORIDA WAREHOUSE LEAVES OFFICIALS SEARCHING FOR WHAT WENT WRONG

"This was a complex mystery that required morphological, genetic, deep-sea and bioinformatics expertise to solve," Collins said.

Scientists initially struggled because the object lacked recognizable animal features. But closer analysis revealed it was made of fibrous layers packed with stinging cells, pointing to a connection with cnidarians, the group that includes corals and anemones.

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Capt. William Mowitt, acting director of NOAA Ocean Exploration, said the "golden orb" was just one of many "captivating mysteries" hidden in the deep ocean.

"This is why we keep exploring — to unlock the secrets of the deep and better understand how the ocean and its resources can drive economic growth, strengthen our national security and sustain our planet," Mowitt said.

2 Washington men spent decades under identities taken from dead children: police

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:08:45 -0400

Two men in their 50s are accused of living under the stolen identities of dead children for more than three decades, and now police in Washington state are asking the public for help in unraveling the mystery behind who they really are.

The men have been using the names Tim Seidenfeld and Glenn Scotzin since around 1990, identities traced back to two Idaho children who died in separate accidents in the early 1970s, the Pasco Police Department said in a statement on Tuesday.

Investigators described the case as a decades-long identity mystery stretching across multiple states. But the mystery isn’t the current whereabouts of the two men, according to police, it’s answering questions about their pasts.

"We’re not looking to find them. We’re well aware of their location," Pasco Police Lt. Tom Groom told the Tri-City Herald. "We’re asking for information about how they’ve been living their lives with their appropriated names."

MEMPHIS DOG-WALKER MAKES HAUNTING DISCOVERY: BONES OF 3 CHILDREN

The men appear to have surfaced in Salem, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington, in 1990, shortly after assuming the identities. From there, they left a faint trail across the country, with ties to Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Arizona, Texas and California.

Police believe both men may have worked in the telecommunications industry in the early 1990s, but say no official employment records exist, deepening the mystery.

HUSBAND OF AMERICAN WOMAN WHO VANISHED IN THE BAHAMAS HIRES US LAWYER AFTER RETURNING FROM ISLAND

"Due to the length of time these individuals have operated under stolen identities, traditional identification methods have proven to be challenging," police said.

Authorities have not said whether the men are suspected of other crimes, but the unusual case has raised questions about how they were able to disappear into someone else’s life for more than 30 years.

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Detectives are turning to the public, hoping someone recognizes the men or can provide clues about their true identities.

Authorities asked anyone with information to contact Pasco Police.

Police at University of California, Berkeley investigate 2 dead men found on campus

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:58:20 -0400

Authorities are investigating two deaths on the University of California, Berkeley campus that were discovered within a 24-hour span: a student who fell from a dorm building and a man found dead near a busy campus plaza.

The latest incident unfolded around noon Wednesday, when university staff discovered a man’s body in bushes outside Sproul Hall, near the heavily trafficked Sproul Plaza, the Berkeley Scanner first reported.

UC Berkeley police told ӣ��Ƶ Digital in a statement that the man does not appear to be affiliated with the university. His identity has not been released.

Just hours earlier, emergency crews responded to a separate call Tuesday evening at the Unit 3 residence hall complex, where a 21-year-old student died after falling from a building.

NEIGHBORS OF SLAIN MIT PROFESSOR STUNNED BY KILLING

The Alameda County coroner later identified the student as William Yi Lu, a junior majoring in theater and performance studies, the Scanner reported.

University officials confirmed the death of a student on campus to ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

"It is with immense sadness that we have learned that a UC Berkeley student has passed away at our campus housing on the evening of April 21, 2026," university spokesman Adam Ratliff told ӣ��Ƶ Digital in a statement. "We wish to extend our condolences to this student’s family and friends."

Campus police said in statements that they do not suspect foul play in either case, and investigators have not indicated the two incidents are connected.

MASKED GUNMAN KILLS LOYOLA CHICAGO COLLEGE STUDENT IN SHOOTING NEAR CAMPUS; POLICE HUNT FOR SUSPECT

The university added that there is no known threat to the community.

The Alameda County medical examiner will determine the causes of both deaths.

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The university added that counseling services are available for those impacted.

The investigations remain ongoing.

Pirro warns car theft ring used new tech to quickly access vehicles: 'Gone in 60 seconds'

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:21:23 -0400

A high-tech car theft ring that can steal vehicles in under a minute — without keys, smashed windows or hot wiring — has been exposed in a sweeping federal indictment, exposing a sophisticated pipeline that moves stolen cars from U.S. streets to overseas black markets.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro on Wednesday announced a 15-count federal indictment targeting the ring, which she said uses an electronic device called an Autel to rewrite a vehicle’s internal computer, allowing them to program a blank key fob instead of using more traditional methods to steal cars.

"They don't need keys, and they don't need hot wiring," Pirro said. "No smashed windows, no drama.... In under a minute, the car's brain is rewritten. The car is gone in 60 seconds."

Pirro said the crews have acted in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Pennsylvania to steal a wide range of vehicles, from higher-end Corvettes and Camaros to one of America’s most popular vehicles, the Honda Civic.

HACKER EXPLOITS AI CHATBOT IN CYBERCRIME SPREE

Once stolen, the suspects allegedly disabled tracking systems, including GPS and Bluetooth, to avoid detection, and "cooled off" vehicles at locations where license plates were swapped — including a parking garage at a Maryland Marriott. They allegedly then loaded them onto transport carriers at ports in Savannah, Georgia, and Baltimore, Maryland.

The stolen cars are hidden in containers labeled as furniture to avoid scrutiny, Pirro said. Investigators say the vehicles were then sent overseas, primarily to Africa, where they were sold on the black market for high profits.

"This isn't joyriding," Pirro said. "These are high-end vehicles that are then loaded on transport carriers ... shipped across the ocean to Africa, where demand is sky high and profits are enormous."

DESERT STREET RACING CIRCUS CRUSHED — COPS SWARM LATE-NIGHT TAKEOVER, SUSPECTS HAULED OFF AND RIDES SEIZED

"Welcome to the new world of car theft," Pirro added.

The indictment identifies more than 20 stolen vehicles worth nearly $1 million, but investigators believe the operation may be far larger — potentially tied to over 100 thefts in Washington, D.C., and more than 30 in Prince George’s County, Maryland, with a total value approaching $4 million.

The five men charged so far include Jacob Hernandez, David Coby, Dustin Wetzel, Chance Clark and James Young. They face multiple federal charges, including conspiracy, possession and transport of stolen vehicles, as well as related offenses.

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and warned the public that modern car theft rings are increasingly using advanced technology to bypass traditional security measures.

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Metropolitan Police Department’s Interim Police Chief Jeffery Carrol said citizens can take steps to prevent this new kind of car theft, including keeping key fobs inside a faraday bag — a bag that prevents the electronic signal from emanating from the fob — and "old school things" like club manual devices to lock a steering wheel.

"I know a lot of people will think those things are outdated, but they're not," Carrol said. "They're good devices that prevent vehicles from still being driven" even if someone uses an Autel device to access the car.

Democrat Rep David Scott dead at 80

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:08:29 -0400

U.S. Rep. David Scott, D-Ga., has died, ӣ��Ƶ learned Wednesday. He was aged 80.

Multiple sources confirmed Scott's death to ӣ��Ƶ. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Scott, a longtime lawmaker, has represented Georgia’s 13th district in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2003. He previously served as a state senator for Georgia’s 36th district from 1983 to 2003 and as a state representative for the 37th district from 1975 to 1983.

Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., presided over the House on Wednesday afternoon and formally announced Scott's death to the chamber.

INDICTED DEMOCRAT SHEILA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK TO RESIGN FROM CONGRESS AMID EXPULSION THREAT

"The House will be in order," Foxx said. "The chair announces to the House that, in light of the passing of the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. David Scott, the whole number of the house is 430."

Scott had been, until the beginning of this Congress, the leading Democrat on the Agriculture Committee, acting as a prominent voice for his party on issues related to farm aid policy and food aid for consumers. He was also a prominent Black member of the party’s moderate Blue Dog caucus.

House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Angie Craig, D-Minn., shared a statement following Scott's death.

"He was a strong voice for Georgia’s farmers, hungry veterans and young people – who he helped shape into the next generation of agricultural leaders through his fierce advocacy for the 1980’s Scholarship Program at historically Black colleges and universities," Craig said. "The House Agriculture Committee will remember him for his strong faith, kindness and dedication to our nation’s farmers and working people. May his memory be a blessing."

HOUSE AVOIDS UNPRECEDENTED FOUR-MEMBER EXPULSION WEEK AS SWALWELL AND GONZALES RESIGN INSTEAD

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters on Capitol Hill that the "news of Congressman Scott’s passing is deeply sad."

"David Scott was a trailblazer who served district that he represented admirably, rose up from humble beginnings to become the first African American ever to chair the House Ag Committee," Jeffries said. "He cared about the people that he represented. He was fiercely committed to getting things done for the people of the great state of Georgia, and he’ll be deeply missed."

Scott is the 8th member of the House to die in less than two years, and the second this year alone. Seven of the eight legislators were Democrats, with three of the four Democrats having been ranking Democrats on their committees.

Scott was seeking his 13th term in Congress despite challenges from within his party. He faced criticism and concerns in recent years because of declining health, enduring a primary challenge in 2024 and facing another one at the time of his death.

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Scott’s death slightly widens Republicans’ narrow House majority going into the thick of this midterm election year.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Hiker who set out in warm spring weather found dead after snowstorm in New Hampshire mountains

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:52:02 -0400

A Massachusetts hiker who set out in warm spring weather was found dead deep in New Hampshire’s White Mountains after a snowstorm dumped several inches of snow in the area, authorities said.

Kent Wood, 61, of West Roxbury, was discovered Tuesday evening on a remote section of the Kinsman Pond Trail in Franconia Notch, about 5.5 miles from his vehicle, according to New Hampshire Fish and Game.

Wood had driven to Franconia Notch on April 17 for a weekend camping and hiking trip, and set out on a hike the next morning in warm, clear weather, officials said. Family and friends last heard from him Saturday afternoon.

When he failed to return or make contact for two days, officials said relatives reported him missing Tuesday morning, prompting a large-scale search.

HIKER IDENTIFIED, POPULAR TRAIL CLOSED AFTER DEADLY FALL A UTAH'S ZION NATIONAL PARK

Rescuers quickly learned Wood had packed for mild conditions, not the three to five inches of snow that fell in the area between Sunday and Monday.

Search teams from Fish and Game, PEMI Valley Search and Rescue, and the Army National Guard launched a coordinated effort, focusing on the Lonesome Lake and Kinsman Pond areas.

FAMILY'S SPRING BREAK HIKE TURNS INTO LIFE-OR-DEATH RESCUE AFTER PARENT FALLS 70 FEET OFF UTAH CLIFF

Conservation officers located Wood’s body around 7:41 p.m. Tuesday. Crews carried him out overnight, reaching the trailhead shortly after 1 a.m. Wednesday.

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Since Friday, six hikers from Massachusetts have been rescued in the White Mountains, Fish and Game said.

Officials are reminding hikers that winter conditions still grip the mountains, with snow, freezing temperatures and rapidly changing weather.

DC Metro work vehicle collides with train, injuring 11 and snarling morning commute

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:48:41 -0400

A pre-dawn collision between a work vehicle and a stationary train injured 11 people in Washington, D.C., early Wednesday, snarling rush-hour travel and triggering widespread delays.

The collision happened shortly after midnight and caused major disruptions on the busy Silver Line, said Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), also known as Metro.

The 11 injured passengers were treated for non-life-threatening injuries, the agency said.

Metro officials said Silver Line service is limited between Ashburn and Clarendon, with riders heading toward New Carrollton or Downtown Largo asked to transfer to the Orange Line.

AMTRAK RIDERS TRAPPED FOR NEARLY 24 HOURS WITH OVERFLOWING BATHROOMS AMID RAGING WILDFIRES

Trains are also single-tracking between McPherson Square and Smithsonian, causing delays in both directions.

Metro Center reopened around 5:15 a.m., but service delays continued through the morning.

AMTRAK APOLOGIZES AFTER HEAT WAVE TRAPPED PASSENGERS WITHOUT AC OR POWER FOR OVER AN HOUR

Officials are still investigating what caused the crash.

The train system in the nation’s capital, which serves 98 stations and has 128 miles of track, carries approximately 115,000 to 125,000 passengers during the morning commute, according to recent Metro data.

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In early 2026, train ridership averaged about 480,000 daily trips, according to the data.

Man accused of killing DHS employee, two others in Atlanta-area shooting spree dies in jail

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:45:11 -0400

The man accused of carrying out a deadly string of seemingly random shootings in the Atlanta suburbs, including the killing of a Department of Homeland Security employee walking her dog, has died in jail before authorities could determine a motive.

Olaolukitan Adon Abel, 26, was discovered unresponsive in his cell at approximately 6:48 p.m. at the DeKalb County Jail. Officials attempted lifesaving measures, but he was pronounced dead about a half hour later, the sheriff’s office said.

"There is no indication of criminal activity or foul play," a statement from the sheriff’s office said, adding that the medical examiner’s office will determine an official cause of death. The sheriff’s office said it is conducting an internal review of the death, in accordance with agency policy.

Adon Abel had been charged in connection with last week’s shootings, which killed Prianna Weathers, 31, and Lauren Bullis, 40, a DHS auditor. Prosecutors were also pursuing an additional murder charge after Tony Mathews, 49, who was wounded in the attack, died Sunday.

NATIONAL GUARD SHOOTING SUSPECT SHOUTED 'ALLAHU AKBAR,' WAS STRUCK BY RETURN FIRE AND SUBDUED BY WITNESS: FEDS

Investigators have not identified a motive and said it remains unclear whether the suspect knew any of the victims. Police believe at least one of the attacks may have been random.

Roommates told The Associated Press that shortly before the shootings, Adon Abel argued over the air conditioning at their shared home and stormed out.

The timeline of the terror began at approximately 12:50 a.m. April 13, when DeKalb County Police discovered Weathers shot multiple times in the Decatur area.

US CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION OFFICERS ARREST MURDER SUSPECT TRYING TO FLEE TO EL SALVADOR

The violence then shifted to Brookhaven, where Mathews was ambushed and shot several times outside a business center.

The spree reached a horrific conclusion around 6:50 a.m. in Panthersville, a community south of Decatur, where Bullis was found both shot and stabbed. Witnesses, police said, reported seeing a man standing over her before he fled the scene.

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed Wednesday that Bullis was "brutally shot and stabbed to death," identifying the suspect as Adon Abel, who was naturalized in 2022 and had a record that included convictions for sexual battery, assault and battery against a police officer.

Adon Abel, originally from the United Kingdom, became a U.S. citizen in 2022 while serving in the Navy in San Diego.

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The case has raised new questions about the federal government’s vetting process after DHS recently acknowledged significant screening gaps under former President Joe Biden.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital’s Sarah Rumpf-Whitten and Peter Pinedo, along with The Associated Press, contributed to this report.

Student charged, weapon recovered after 3 teens targeted in incident linked to high school tradition: police

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:31:50 -0400

A high school game turned dangerous in Massachusetts when teens playing a viral "Senior Assassin" game allegedly opened fire with gel projectiles on unsuspecting students, leaving two minors struck and a suspect now facing charges, police said.

Three high school-aged teens were running together Thursday afternoon when they were targeted and shot at with what appeared to be BB-style or gel projectiles, the Lawrence Police Department said.

Two of the victims were hit, while a third avoided being struck. Authorities said none suffered serious injuries.

Investigators quickly identified a local high school student as the suspect and recovered an Orbeez-style gel projectile gun believed to have been used in the incident.

The teen was taken into custody and now faces two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, police said. The teen’s identity was not immediately released.

TEENS' VIRAL PRANK TARGETING HOMEOWNERS COULD HAVE DEADLY CONSEQUENCES, POLICE WARN

Authorities linked the incident to "Senior Assassin," a student-run game popular among graduating seniors that involves targeting other participants, often using toy or non-lethal devices like water guns.

Police said the victims in this case were not participants in the game.

TEEN CHARGED IN SENIOR PRANK GONE WRONG MAKES VOW AFTER TEACHER'S DEATH

Officials stressed that the activity is not sanctioned by schools and can quickly turn dangerous.

"While these activities may seem harmless, they can create dangerous situations and lead to serious legal consequences," the Lawrence Police Department said.

The game has drawn increasing warnings from law enforcement across the country after realistic-looking toy weapons and ambush-style tactics have triggered emergency responses and raised safety concerns in multiple states.

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Police in Connecticut issued warnings to local communities this week about the games, telling those participating that they should use brightly colored water guns that would not be mistaken for real weapons. Police added that the game should not be played while driving, and that players should avoid trespassing on private property and shooting at people who are not involved in the game.

Supreme Court to hear Catholic parish's challenge after Colorado barred schools from universal pre-K program

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:57:29 -0400

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a Catholic parish's argument after Colorado excluded its schools from the state's program that pays for families to send their children to the preschool of their choice, public or private.

The oral arguments in the case of St. Mary Catholic Parish v. Roy are expected to take place this fall.

The case could redefine how states balance anti-discrimination laws with religious freedom.

The Archdiocese of Denver, which oversees 34 Catholic preschools, argues that its schools are an extension of the church’s ministry. To maintain the integrity of their religious environment, the Archdiocese says its schools admit only families who support Catholic beliefs, including on sex and gender.

ALITO NOT EXPECTED TO RETIRE THIS TERM, COOLING SUPREME COURT VACANCY SPECULATION: SOURCES

The schools require staff and families to sign statements to "affirm that they will support the teachings of the Catholic Church" and that "all Catholic school families must understand and display a positive and supportive attitude toward the Catholic Church" prior to enrollment, the Archdiocese says.

Colorado officials, however, maintain that the Universal Preschool Program is designed to be inclusive of all children, regardless of their background or their family’s identity.

The state argues that while faith-based providers are welcome to participate in the program, which offers free preschool to all four-year-olds in the state, they must follow the same rules as secular schools without exception.

SUPREME COURT SIDES WITH CHEVRON, OIL COMPANIES IN LOUISIANA ENVIRONMENTAL LAWSUITS

"All participating providers — whether religious or secular — must ensure that children have equal opportunity to enroll in and receive preschool services regardless of those children’s (or their families’) religious affiliation, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, lack of housing, income level, or disability," the state said.

Colorado noted that a lower appeals court previously upheld that the law does not allow for exceptions to its equal-opportunity requirements.

The Archdiocese views the exclusion as a violation of its religious exercise, while the state views the parish's enrollment policies as a barrier to universal civil rights.

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When the Supreme Court hears oral arguments this fall, the justices will look to address whether a state can require a religious institution to set aside its core tenets in order to participate in a state-funded program.

ӣ��Ƶ' Bill Mears contributed to this report.

UK chief rabbi says Jews targeted by ‘sustained campaign of violence and intimidation' after string of attacks

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 14:03:19 -0400

British counterterror police are investigating whether suspected Iranian proxies are behind a wave of arson attacks targeting Jewish sites in London, as a chief rabbi warned that such attacks are escalating.

The Metropolitan Police said specialized counterterror officers are probing fires at synagogues, Jewish-linked facilities and a Persian-language media company critical of Iran’s regime.

The latest incident caused minor damage to a north London synagogue Saturday night. No injuries have been reported in any of the blazes, which all happened within a few miles of each other.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans said investigators are examining claims by a group calling itself Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia, which has taken responsibility for several attacks. The group’s name means Islamic Movement of the Companions of the Right.

TRUMP WARNS OF IRANIAN 'SLEEPER CELLS' AS CANADA ACCUSED OF HARBORING REGIME OPERATIVES

"We are aware of public reporting that suggests this group may have links to Iran. As you would expect, we will continue to explore that question as our investigation evolves," she said.

"I’ve spoken previously about the Iranian regime’s use of criminal proxies, and we’re considering whether this tactic is being used here in London," Evans added.

Authorities say the group — which Israel has described as a possible Iranian proxy — has also claimed synagogue attacks in Belgium and the Netherlands.

IRANIAN MAN, 2ND PERSON ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY TRYING TO ENTER UK NUCLEAR MISSILE BASE: REPORT

Police have flooded northwest London with additional officers after a series of incidents in recent weeks, including the torching of four Jewish charity ambulances in the Golders Green neighborhood on March 23.

Several suspects, ranging from teenagers to people in their 40s, have already been arrested and charged.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis warned on X that "a sustained campaign of violence and intimidation against the Jewish community of the UK is gathering momentum."

"Thank God, no lives have been lost, but we cannot, and must not, wait for that to change before we understand just how dangerous this moment is for all of our society," he added.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the violence, calling the attacks "abhorrent" and vowing those responsible "will be found and brought to justice."

The threat level rose further after the group released a video claiming it would target Israel’s embassy in London with drones carrying hazardous substances. Police shut down nearby Kensington Gardens while investigating suspicious items but said no dangerous materials were found.

UK COUNTERTERRORISM POLICE PROBE ANTISEMITIC ARSON ATTACK AS IRAN-LINKED GROUP CLAIMS RESPONSIBILITY

British officials have long warned that Iran uses criminal networks to carry out attacks in Europe. MI5 says it disrupted more than 20 potentially lethal Iran-linked plots in the past year.

Police issued a blunt warning to any "thugs for hire" involved in such attacks.

"Let’s be really clear — it’s a mug’s game," said Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes. "That’s what people who are now serving long prison sentences have found out, and the same fate awaits those responsible for these recent crimes."

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Investigators say the probe remains ongoing as authorities work to determine whether the attacks are part of a coordinated foreign-backed campaign.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Several University of Iowa students wounded in downtown shooting after fight erupts near campus

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:19:26 -0400

Gunfire erupted at Iowa City's bustling Pedestrian Mall near the University of Iowa early Sunday, leaving multiple people, including students, wounded and sending police scrambling to secure the area as the suspect remains at large.

Police responded around 1:46 a.m. Sunday to reports of a brawl in the 100 block of East College Street, a busy nightlife area near the university, Iowa City Public Safety said. As officers arrived, they heard gunshots.

Multiple victims were rushed to area hospitals to be treated for wounds suffered in the shooting, police said.

Five shooting victims have been identified, police said, adding that one victim is in critical condition, while four others are stable.

WATCH: TYBEE ISLAND TEEN TAKEOVER ERUPTS IN PANIC AFTER POLICE SAY GUNFIRE BROKE OUT ALONG THE PIE

Students at the University of Iowa were among the wounded, the school said in a statement.

"While the investigation is in its early stages, there are no indications any university students were the intended victims," it added.

No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Police later released photos of five persons of interest in connection with the shooting.

Authorities asked anyone with information or video footage of the shooting to contact Detective Cade Burma at cburma@iowa-city.org or 319-356-5275.

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Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers online at iccrimestoppers.org, or by phone at 319-358-TIPS (8477).

Chinese robot breaks human world record in Beijing half-marathon

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:44:25 -0400

A Chinese-built humanoid robot beat the human half-marathon world record in Beijing on Sunday, marking a breakthrough moment in a high-stakes global race for technological dominance.

A robot developed by Chinese smartphone maker Honor completed the 21-kilometer (13-mile) race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, beating the human record of about 57 minutes set by Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo last month.

The performance marked a dramatic improvement from last year’s inaugural event, when the top robot finished in more than 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Dozens of humanoid robots competed alongside about 12,000 human runners, navigating a parallel course to avoid collisions.

CHINA'S COMPACT HUMANOID ROBOT SHOWS OFF BALANCE AND FLIPS

Nearly half of the robots ran using autonomous navigation, while others relied on remote control, organizers said.

Despite the breakthrough, the race still saw glitches, with some robots stumbling at the start or veering into barriers.

Engineers said the winning robot was designed to mimic elite athletes, featuring long legs of about 37 inches and advanced cooling systems to sustain performance.

US TARGETS CHINESE ROBOTS OVER SECURITY FEARS

"Looking ahead, some of these technologies might be transferred to other areas," said Du Xiaodi, an engineer with the Honor team. "For example, structural reliability and liquid-cooling technology could be applied in future industrial scenarios."

Spectators reacted with a mix of amazement and unease at the machines’ rapid progress.

"It’s the first time robots have surpassed humans, and that’s something I never imagined," Sun Zhigang, who attended the event with his son, told The Associated Press.

HUMANOID ROBOTS HIT MASS PRODUCTION IN CHINA

"The robots' speed far exceeds that of humans," spectator Wang Wen told the outlet. "This may signal the arrival of sort of a new era."

Experts say the race highlights China’s accelerating push to dominate robotics and artificial intelligence, even as widespread commercial use of humanoid robots remains limited, according to Reuters. The experts said Chinese robotics firms are still working to develop the AI software needed for humanoids to match the efficiency of human factory workers.

"The future will definitely be an AI era," engineering student Chu Tianqi told Reuters. "If people don't know how to use AI now… they will definitely become obsolete."

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The competition underscores a broader technological race between China and the United States, as Beijing invests heavily in advanced robotics as part of its long-term economic strategy.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.

South African ex-police chief gets tissue stuck on forehead while sweating during corruption inquiry

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:41:09 -0400

Testimony at a major South African corruption inquiry was briefly overshadowed Tuesday by an unscripted moment — a suspended police chief with a tissue stuck to his brow.

Julius Mkhwanazi, the former deputy chief of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department, was testifying before the Madlanga Commission when the awkward moment unfolded.

Mkhwanazi, who was suspended in November 2025 amid misconduct allegations, had been wiping sweat from his face after answering questions from the commission.

Part of the tissue, however, remained stuck to his head.

PRO GOLFER HOSPITALIZED AFTER FALLING DOWN ELEVATOR SHAFT IN FREAK ACCIDENT IN SOUTH AFRICA

The slip didn’t go unnoticed for long. Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga halted proceedings as the room took in the scene.

"Oh, you have a tissue stuck on your forehead," Madlanga tells the ex-police chief.

"I’m sweaty," Mkhwanazi says. "Thank you, thank you."

SOUTH AFRICAN PRESIDENT THANKS PUTIN AFTER 17 MEN 'LURED' TO RUSSIAN FRONT LINES BEGIN RETURNING HOME

The Madlanga Commission is a public inquiry probing allegations of corruption and political interference in South Africa’s justice system. The current inquiry has been hearing testimony from current and former law enforcement officials.

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Mkhwanazi has been under scrutiny since an internal audit recommended his suspension as part of a broader probe into alleged misconduct.

US kills 3 alleged drug traffickers in another Eastern Pacific strike

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:18:04 -0400

The U.S. military carried out its third strike in days against suspected narco-terrorist targets in the Eastern Pacific, killing three men aboard an alleged drug-trafficking vessel in a lethal operation, according to U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

The lethal kinetic strike targeted a vessel operated by what SOUTHCOM called Designated Terrorist Organizations, though it did not immediately provide additional details about the identities of those killed or the specific groups involved.

"Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operation," SOUTHCOM said in a statement on X.

"Three male narco-terrorists were killed during this action," the command said.

HEGSETH SAYS US STRIKES FORCE SOME CARTEL LEADERS TO HALT DRUG OPERATIONS

No U.S. military forces were harmed during the operation, it added.

The latest strike comes after SOUTHCOM said the U.S. military conducted similar strikes in the Eastern Pacific earlier this week.

US MILITARY KILLS 2 SUSPECTED CARTEL OPERATIVES IN LATEST EASTERN PACIFIC LETHAL STRIKE, SOUTHCOM SAYS

Two individuals believed to be involved in narcotics trafficking were killed in a strike on Monday, while four alleged narco-terrorists were killed in another strike on Tuesday, the command previously said.

The U.S. military has carried out dozens of strikes in recent months on suspected drug-smuggling vessels as part of a broader campaign to dismantle cartel-linked trafficking operations.

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SOUTHCOM is responsible for military operations in Central and South America and the Caribbean, including counter-narcotics missions aimed at disrupting drug trafficking networks that threaten U.S. interests.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital’s Michael Sinkewicz and Greg Wehner contributed to this report.

First-ever moratorium on AI data centers passes Maine legislature

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 07:38:10 -0400

Maine is on the verge of becoming the first state in the nation to slam the brakes on energy-hungry AI data centers, as lawmakers push back against tech giants over fears of higher power bills, strained grids and environmental impact.

The measure, now headed to Democratic Gov. Janet Mills, would pause approvals for data centers requiring more than 20 megawatts of power until October 2027, while a state-appointed council studies their impact on the power grid, energy bills and the environment.

The legislation passed the state’s Democrat-controlled House 79-62 and Senate 21-13, marking one of the most aggressive moves yet against the rapid expansion of data centers tied to artificial intelligence and Big Tech.

Supporters say the pause is needed to protect residents from the massive energy demands of so-called "hyperscale" facilities, which can consume as much electricity as small cities.

SEN BERNIE SANDERS: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS COMING FOR THE WORKING CLASS. WE MUST FIGHT BACK

"It's not that there's no place for data centers in Maine," Democratic Rep. Melanie Sachs, who sponsored the measure, told The Associated Press. "Frankly, the tradeoffs have not been shown to be of benefit to our ratepayers, water usage or community benefit in terms of economic activity."

Opposition to data centers has been building nationwide as communities raise alarms about the strain on power grids, higher electricity bills and heavy water use. Analysts have warned that parts of the U.S. grid could face reliability issues in the coming years if demand continues to surge.

In February, Sens. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., and Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., introduced a bill aimed at ensuring the electricity costs of data centers are not passed on to American consumers.

At least 11 other states are considering restrictions like Maine’s, but Maine’s bill is the first to pass both legislative chambers, potentially setting a precedent.

MAJOR TECH COMPANIES BACK TRUMP PLEDGE TO PAY MORE FOR DATA CENTER ELECTRICITY AHEAD OF SIGNING

Critics argue the move could drive away investment and jobs.

"We think that these data centers could bring good jobs, good opportunities to these regions," Montana Towers, a policy analyst with the free market Maine Policy Institute, told the AP. "And a lot of these concerns about them are luddite in nature."

The Trump administration has backed data center expansion as critical to competing with China in artificial intelligence, even as it recently pushed tech companies to commit to covering the cost of new power generation needed to run their facilities.

Mills has not said whether she will sign the bill, though she has sought an exemption for a smaller project already underway that would reuse existing infrastructure.

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If enacted, Maine’s moratorium would serve as a test case for how states balance economic growth against the mounting energy demands of the AI boom.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.

House Dems launch impeachment push against Hegseth

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:43:40 -0400

House Democrats filed formal articles of impeachment against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Wednesday, accusing the Trump Cabinet member of abusing his office and committing war crimes.

Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., introduced six articles of impeachment against Hegseth along with 12 other House Democrats.

"Pete Hegseth broke his oath to the Constitution, put U.S. troops at grave risk through the unauthorized disclosure of classified information, engaged in abuse of office and conduct beneath the dignity of his office, and carried out unlawful military actions despite his obligation to refuse — including strikes on civilians and a girls’ school in Minab, Iran," Ansari said in a statement announcing formal filing of the resolution.

She further claimed Hegseth’s "conduct meets the threshold of high crimes and misdemeanors and warrants immediate removal by Congress."

HEGSETH REVEALS COVERT VISIT TO TROOPS FIGHTING IN OPERATION EPIC FURY

Axios first reported the impeachment push after obtaining a copy of the resolution.

The first article of impeachment accuses Hegseth of an "unauthorized war against Iran and reckless endangerment of United States service members." It focuses on strikes the U.S. launched without seeking a formal mandate from Congress and accuses Hegseth of recklessly endangering U.S. service members by signing off on ground operations that involved extreme and unnecessary risks.

The second article accuses Hegseth of "Violations of the Law of Armed Conflict and targeting of civilians," alleging the secretary of authorizing or failing to prevent operations that resulted in significant civilian casualties. It cited the bombing of a girls' school in Minab, Iran, and reports of "double tap" strikes on alleged drug vessels in the Caribbean.

LONGTIME TRUMP CRITIC REVEALS WHY SHE THINKS HIS IRAN ACTIONS ARE WRONG, WARNS IT'S A 'MUCH BIGGER WAR'

The third article accuses Hegseth of "Negligence and Reckless handling of sensitive military information," focusing on an incident in which Hegseth and other top officials used a Signal chat to discuss active strikes in Yemen — and inadvertently included a prominent magazine editor in the chat.

The remaining three articles accuse Hegseth of obstructing congressional oversight, abuse of power and the politicization of the armed forces, and a broader charge of bringing "disrepute" upon the U.S. and its armed forces.

Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson told ӣ��Ƶ Digital in an emailed statement that the impeachment push "is just another charade" by Democrats.

"This is just another Democrat trying to make headlines as the Department of War decisively and overwhelmingly achieved the Presidents’ objectives in Iran," Wilson said. "Secretary Hegseth will continue to protect the homeland and project peace through strength. This is just another charade in an attempt to distract the American people from the major successes we have had here at the Department of War."

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The other Democrats who signed onto the resolution include Reps. Sarah McBride, D-Del., Lauren Underwood, D-Ill., Al Green, D-Texas, Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, Nikema Williams, D-Ga., Dina Titus, D-Nev., Dave Min, D-Calif., Shri Thanedar, D-Mich., Melanie Stansbury, D-N.M., Mike Quigley, D-Ill., and Brittany Pettersen, D-Col.

Missing teen found hiding in convicted sex offender's closet in Florida, sheriff says

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:44:55 -0400

A missing 17-year-old girl was found hiding in a convicted sex offender’s closet in Florida, authorities said Tuesday, leading to the man’s arrest on multiple charges.

Polk County detectives went to the home of Alexis Diaz-Toledo, 30, on Monday after getting a tip from Orange County deputies that a runaway teen might be with a man in Dundee, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said.

Diaz-Toledo initially told investigators he had not seen the girl for several days and denied knowing her whereabouts, according to the sheriff's office.

Authorities said he also initially refused to let detectives search his home.

FLORIDA TEACHER ACCUSED OF SEX WITH STUDENT WHOSE PARENTS TRACKED HIS LOCATION

Detectives then determined Diaz-Toledo was in violation of his sex offender registration requirements for failing to report two vehicles being kept at his home.

When investigators eventually searched his home, authorities said detectives found the missing girl hiding in a bedroom closet.

The teen was safely returned to her family, the sheriff’s office said, without elaborating on how she ended up at the home of Diaz-Toledo.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd underscored concerns about the suspect in a statement to ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

"A 30-year old male sex offender is not the kind of person you want giving a 17-year old girl a place to stay," Judd said. "I can assure you that Alexis Diaz-Toledo did not have the missing juvenile’s best interests in mind. Suffice to say, we gave Alexis a place to stay for a while — at the Polk County Jail."

FLORIDA DOCTOR CHARGED AFTER ALLEGEDLY REMOVING WRONG ORGAN DURING SURGERY

Diaz-Toledo was arrested and charged with two counts of failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements, interfering with custody of a minor, sheltering a minor without notifying a parent and providing false information to law enforcement during a missing person investigation.

Diaz-Toledo remained in custody as of Wednesday, and was not eligible for bond, according to online jail records.

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Diaz-Toledo has been a registered sex offender since a 2014 conviction for lewd and lascivious battery involving a minor between 12 and 15 years old, the sheriff’s office said.

Family's spring break hike turns into life-or-death rescue after parent falls 70 feet off Utah cliff

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:57:26 -0400

A family’s spring break adventure in Utah’s rugged backcountry turned into a life-or-death rescue after a parent plunged roughly 70 feet off a cliff, leaving first responders scrambling to reach the critically injured victim in treacherous terrain.

The accident happened Friday in the Pritchett Canyon area of Moab after a family of four parked their off-road vehicles and set out on a hike to view nearby rock arches, the Grand County Sheriff's Search and Rescue said.

The family split up during the hike when one parent and child began walking faster than the other parent and child. At some point, the adult who was trailing behind got too close to the edge and fell, rescuers said.

"No one else in the group saw the fall, but one of the kids heard the screaming and rushed down the hiking route to alert the other parent that something had happened," the sheriff’s search and rescue said.

HIKER DIES NEAR SUMMIT OF NEW YORK'S TALLEST PEAK AFTER SLIPPING OFF TRAIL

The other adult was able to call for help via their iPhone’s satellite function and sent a text to 911. A rescue helicopter responded and was able to land about 150 yards from the injured hiker in about five minutes, rescuers said.

Officials said it would prove to be a "difficult rescue" as the hiker was "lodged in a sloping sandstone gully."

"The estimated distance of the fall was 70–80 feet followed by a 50-foot bouncing tumble, all on slickrock," rescuers said. "Many hands would be needed for this rescue."

HIDDEN HAZARD AT POPULAR NATIONAL PARK SPARKS URGENT SAFETY WARNING FOR SPRING BREAKERS

The hiker had a "badly broken body," with their injuries being described as "open fractures and possible internal injuries," rescuers said. The hiker had to be put in a rescue litter to be moved.

The team carried out the technical rescue operation using ropes, webbing, carabiners, anchoring bolts and descent devices. The entire operation lasted three hours.

The hiker was airlifted in critical condition to a hospital. Their current condition is unclear.

"As for the reason for the rescue, no one saw the patient fall," the sheriff’s search and rescue team said. "The cliff edges in many places around Moab are deceptive. They slope gently from the top at first and quickly progress to vertical. It is not known what led up to the accident or what/if anything could have prevented it."

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Rescuers urged hikers to take care when exploring the wilderness in the Moab area.

"The ubiquitous advice to 'Be Careful' is sound and sometimes bad things happen to good people," the rescue team said, adding that it "wishes the family the best of luck moving forward."

Texas teacher charged after alleged student assault 'hoax' causes lockdown

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:28:03 -0400

A Texas high school teacher who triggered a campus lockdown with a reported stabbing by a student was arrested after investigators determined the incident was a hoax, authorities said.

More than 100 officers rushed to Splendora High School on Thursday after a teacher reported an emergency around 8:45 a.m., the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office said.

Authorities locked down the campus as school resource officers moved to secure students and staff, the sheriff’s office said.

Investigators, however, said authorities quickly determined there was no such assault.

TEXAS STUDENT, 15, DIES AFTER SHOOTING TEACHER AT HIGH SCHOOL, AUTHORITIES SAY

"During the course of the investigation, it was determined that no assault on a teacher had been committed by a student," the sheriff’s office said. "Detectives discovered that the injury sustained by the teacher was self-inflicted and the evidence supports that the entire incident was a hoax."

The school had told parents that police were investigating a report of a "physical altercation" between a student and a staff member, FOX26 Houston reported.

OKLAHOMA PRINCIPAL SHOT IN LEG IS PRAISED FOR TACKLING SCHOOL SHOOTER: 'HE IS A HERO'

Detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation within minutes, reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence before concluding no assault had occurred.

Truelove was arrested and charged with felony tampering with evidence and false report/false alarm. She has been booked into the Montgomery County Jail.

A judge set Truelove’s bond at $20,000 on Friday. She will be required to submit to GPS monitoring and stay away from all schools and Splendora school district properties if she is released on bond, according to FOX26.

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Truelove worked at the school for about a year, the sheriff's office said.

Officials said the incident was isolated and there is no ongoing threat to students or the public.

New Jersey nurse gunned down at work by estranged husband in murder-suicide: police

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 13:42:05 -0400

A New Jersey nurse was shot and killed inside her workplace in an apparent murder-suicide, after her estranged husband allegedly ambushed her outside and chased her into the building, authorities said.

Brandon Alexander, 35, targeted his wife, Victoria Alexander, 38, a nurse at the Excelcare Rehabilitation Facility in Egg Harbor Township, around 6 a.m. Monday morning, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office said in a news release.

Brandon Alexander blocked his wife’s car in the parking lot as she arrived for work, got inside her vehicle and left two suicide notes on the dashboard, investigators said.

Prosecutors said that when a food delivery driver asked him to move his car, Victoria Alexander seized the chance to escape and ran into the building.

ARIZONA WOMAN CHARGED WITH KILLING NEWBORN CHILD 45 YEARS AFTER BODY WAS FOUND

Her husband, however, followed her inside and shot her multiple times before turning the gun on himself, according to authorities.

ANNA KEPNER'S STEPBROTHER CHARGED AS ADULT WITH MURDER, SEXUAL ABUSE IN FLORIDA TEEN'S CRUISE SHIP DEATH

Victoria Alexander was pronounced dead at the scene. Brandon Alexander was rushed to a hospital but later died from his injuries, officials said.

Authorities described the shooting as an isolated incident. There were no reports of other injuries.

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Investigators did not immediately share the contents of the two apparent suicide notes.

Three-year-old girl killed, pregnant mother injured after alleged drag racers split car in half in Arizona

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:37:54 -0400

A 3-year-old girl died last week after a high-speed crash that split a car in half and left her pregnant mother injured at an intersection in Tucson, Arizona, leading to second-degree murder charges against two alleged drag racers, ages 22 and 16.

Officers responded around 1 p.m. April 10 to the intersection, where a silver Toyota Camry and a white Hyundai Genesis collided in what investigators described as a violent, high-impact crash.

The child, who was properly secured in a car seat, was rushed to a hospital but later died from her injuries. An adult woman driving the Camry was also seriously injured. The Genesis driver suffered minor injuries.

A GoFundMe that the victims’ family created for funeral and medical expenses identified the toddler as Anna, "a bright, joyful, and loving little girl."

1-YEAR-OLD INJURED AFTER TEEN DRIVER CRASHES CAR OFF OKLAHOMA BRIDGE

"In this heartbreaking moment, we lost our sweet Anna, their beloved three-year-old daughter tragically passed away from her injuries from the collision," the family said in the fundraiser post.

The fundraiser identified the adult female as Anna’s mother, who it said is nine months pregnant. It said she was recovering at a hospital while "facing every parent’s worst nightmare" in the "unimaginable loss" of her youngest daughter.

Investigators said the Genesis was racing another vehicle, believed to be a multicolored Dodge Charger, at speeds far above the limit when it struck the Camry as it attempted a left turn, splitting the vehicle in half. The Dodge Charger fled the scene.

ILLEGAL MIGRANT CHARGED IN DEADLY 124 MPH CHASE THAT KILLED PREGNANT TEEN, UNBORN CHILD

Police arrested Christian Isaiah Randall, the 22-year-old driver of the Genesis, and charged him with second-degree murder, along with multiple counts of endangerment and aggravated assault. He is being held on a $500,000 bond.

The driver of the second vehicle was identified as a 16-year-old boy on Sunday after investigators said they located the Dodge Charger involved in the incident.

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The boy was arrested and charged with second-degree murder and multiple counts of endangerment and aggravated assault. Police said he was booked into the Pima County Juvenile Detention Center.

Authorities said excessive speed was the primary cause of the crash, though the investigation remains ongoing.

New Artemis II video shows moment Navy medical team opened hatch, welcomed astronauts

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:58:00 -0400

New video shows the moment that the Artemis II astronauts were welcomed back to Earth as a Navy medical team opened the hatch to their Orion module after the crew splashed down safely in the Pacific following their historic journey around the moon.

Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover and mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen returned from their 10-day lunar mission on Friday, flying farther from Earth than any human has before.

On Monday, Wiseman shared new video on X showing the perspective of a Navy medical team opening the module’s hatch in the waters off the coast of San Diego.

"Jesse, Steve, Laddy, and Vlad…. such an incredible feeling to welcome you aboard Integrity after a nearly 700,000-mile journey. Forever thankful for your service to our crew and the nation," Wiseman wrote in the X post.

ARTEMIS II ASTRONAUT TELLS TRUMP WHAT COMMUNICATION BLACKOUT WAS LIKE: 'I SAID A LITTLE PRAYER'

After opening the hatch, the Navy team is heard greeting the returning astronauts. Two members of the team are seen entering the module and exchanging fist bumps with the Artemis II crew.

After being helped out of the Orion crew module, the four astronauts were taken aboard the USS John P. Murtha for medical evaluation after the mission.

The Orion spacecraft traveled 252,000 miles from Earth in its journey.

ARTEMIS II ASTRONAUTS NEARLY HALFWAY TO THE MOON AS NASA SHARES STUNNING PHOTOS FROM ORION SPACECRAFT

The spacecraft reentered the Earth’s atmosphere Friday at around 25,000 mph, slowing to about 20 mph using an 11-parachute sequence before landing in the ocean about 60 miles off the coast at 5:07 p.m. local time.

During its reentry, the temperatures outside the spacecraft reached as high as 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

In the next high-stakes mission set to launch next year, Artemis III astronauts will remain in Earth’s orbit and practice docking their Orion capsule with a commercial lunar lander, a critical step before any return to the moon.

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The Artemis IV is planned to follow in 2028, a mission that could carry astronauts in the first planned moon landing of the program.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital’s Brie Stimson contributed to this report.

Arizona woman charged with killing newborn child 45 years after body was found

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:31:35 -0400

More than four decades after a newborn girl was found suffocated and abandoned on a North Dakota college campus, authorities say DNA technology has finally led to a murder charge against a 65-year-old Arizona woman.

Nancy Jean Trottier, of Sun Lakes, Arizona, appeared in court Monday in Barnes County after investigators linked her through DNA to the infant known for decades only as "Rebecca," Valley News Live in North Dakota reported.

The newborn’s body was discovered on April 16, 1981, in a wooded area behind a dorm on the Valley City State College campus. The baby still had her umbilical cord attached, and a plastic covering had been placed over her face.

An autopsy determined the infant had been born alive about three days before her body was discovered, and that she died from acute asphyxia, consistent with suffocation, the outlet reported.

MAN SENTENCED FOR STRANGLING MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE STUDENT TO DEATH WITH TANK TOP IN COLD CASE KILLING

For years, investigators had no suspect and no identity for the child. Police gave the baby the name "Rebecca" before she was buried.

The case was reopened in 2019 after advances in DNA technology. Authorities exhumed the child’s remains and used genetic genealogy to track down possible relatives.

The investigation eventually led to Trottier, who attended the college from 1978 to 1982.

TED BUNDY UNMASKED IN DECADES-OLD TEEN MURDER AS COLD CASE FINALLY SOLVED BY DNA: REPORT

During a 2021 interview, Trottier reportedly became emotional and told investigators, "maybe it was me" and "It could be, maybe it was me," according to court documents obtained by Valley News Live and KVLY-TV.

DNA results returned in 2023 provided a breakthrough.

Investigators said it is 3.481 quadrillion times more likely that Trottier and her husband are the biological parents of the infant than unrelated individuals, the outlets reported. DNA consistent with Trottier was also found on tissue paper recovered at the scene.

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Trottier now faces a Class AA felony murder charge. She was being held on $750,000 bond, according to online court records.

She is scheduled to return to court for a preliminary hearing and arraignment on May 21.

Florida teacher accused of sex with student whose parents tracked his location

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:07:43 -0400

A Florida high school math teacher was arrested after investigators say she carried on a sexual relationship with a student, a case that began when suspicious parents tracked their son to a mystery location.

Kirsten Rose, 37, a teacher at Cocoa Beach Jr./Sr. High School, was taken into custody in connection with the case, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office said.

The investigation began in March when the parents of a male student grew suspicious that he was having an inappropriate relationship with a teacher after he came home late from work and refused to explain where he had been, according to the sheriff's office.

When his parents checked his location, they found he had been at an unfamiliar home. The teen initially claimed he was at a girlfriend’s house, but later admitted he was in a relationship with his teacher, investigators said.

COLORADO SCHOOL STAFFER ACCUSED OF SEXUALLY ABUSING 13-YEAR-OLD STUDENT, NOW ON THE RUN

Detectives determined Rose and the student had been communicating privately on Instagram since November 2025. Authorities said the relationship turned sexual in February and continued into March.

Rose was arrested and booked into the Brevard County Jail, where she is being held without bond.

FLORIDA TEACHER CHARGED FOR ALLEGED SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH STUDENT WHO LIVED WITH HER

Rose faces five counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor, along with lewd and indecent exposure offenses against a student by an authority figure.

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The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit.

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