Leah Willingham

The defense has rested in Lindsay Clancy’s Massachusetts murder trial after presenting testimony that she suffered from postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder and medication-related problems when she strangled her three children in January 2023. Family members described her deteriorating mental health and pleas for help, while psychologist Paul Zeizel testified that she could not understand the wrongfulness of her actions. Prosecutors dispute the diagnosis, arguing that Clancy planned the killings and was being treated for anxiety, insomnia and depression rather than psychosis. Rebuttal testimony and closing arguments are expected to bring the trial to an end.

Susan Clancy testified for the defense that Lindsay Clancy had been struggling, asking for help and expressing fears about benzodiazepine dependence and insomnia before killing her three children in January 2023. The defense argues that Clancy was experiencing postpartum psychosis and was not criminally responsible, while prosecutors contend that she planned the killings and understood her actions. Clancy’s own suicide attempt left her paralyzed; a murder conviction would carry life without parole, while an insanity-based acquittal would result in commitment to a state mental health facility.

The first week of Lindsay Clancy’s Massachusetts murder trial featured her ex-husband Patrick Clancy’s emotional 911 call and testimony, first-responder accounts, evidence involving the exercise bands used to strangle the children, and a jury visit to the former family home. Clancy admits killing her three children but has pleaded not guilty to three counts of first-degree murder. Prosecutors argue she acted intentionally, while her lawyers say postpartum psychosis and bipolar disorder left her without criminal responsibility, citing intrusive thoughts, worsening symptoms despite psychiatric treatment, and alleged failures by medical providers. The trial will turn on her mental state; a conviction could result in life without parole, while an insanity-based acquittal would lead to commitment in a state mental health facility.

Police officers, firefighters and paramedics testified about the chaotic aftermath of the January 2023 deaths of Lindsay Clancy’s three children in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Prosecutors argue Clancy deliberately killed the children and should be held criminally responsible, while her attorneys claim postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, medication effects and severe sleep deprivation impaired her judgment. Patrick Clancy described his wife’s deteriorating mental health and said he forgives her. Clancy faces life without parole if convicted; a finding of not guilty due to lack of criminal responsibility would result in commitment to a state mental health facility.

First responders are expected to testify about finding the bodies of Lindsay Clancy’s three children after prosecutors say she strangled them with an exercise band. The defense argues that Clancy was experiencing postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder and medication-related symptoms that impaired her criminal responsibility, while prosecutors maintain the killings were intentional. Her husband, Patrick Clancy, has testified about her deteriorating mental health and intrusive thoughts. A murder conviction could result in life without parole; a finding of not guilty due to lack of criminal responsibility would lead to commitment in a state mental health facility.

First responders are expected to testify in Lindsay Clancy’s Massachusetts murder trial about discovering the bodies of her three children and Clancy after she attempted suicide in January 2023. The defense argues that postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder, medication effects, sleep deprivation and hormonal changes left her unable to understand or control her actions, while prosecutors contend she intentionally killed the children and is criminally responsible. Her husband, Patrick Clancy, has testified about her worsening mental health, intrusive thoughts and unsuccessful treatment. Clancy survived a jump from the family home but remains paralyzed from the waist down; she and Patrick Clancy have separately accused her medical providers of inadequate diagnosis and treatment. A murder conviction could result in life without parole, while a finding of not guilty by reason of lack of criminal responsibility would lead to commitment in a state mental health facility.

eBay has agreed to pay $48.7 million to David and Ina Steiner, founders of EcommerceBytes, after former employees subjected them to cyberstalking, threats, surveillance and disturbing anonymous deliveries, including live insects, a funeral wreath and a bloody pig mask. The settlement includes $7 million in charitable donations supporting First Amendment rights, requires a public statement from eBay and contains no confidentiality clause. Seven former employees faced criminal charges, while former executives Devin Wenig, Wendy Jones and Steve Wymer are also contributing to the settlement. eBay has apologized and said it strengthened its leadership, policies and ethics training after the 2019 misconduct.

A commemorative orange traffic cone from Glasgow received a ceremonial welcome at Boston Logan International Airport, complete with a bagpiper, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. The cone commemorates the bond formed between Boston and Scotland’s Tartan Army, whose visit filled the city with music, humor and traffic cones placed on public statues. It will tour Massachusetts to raise money for mental health charities before returning to Scotland, where the cone tradition began as a prank and became a cultural symbol.

An ICE officer fatally shot a 26-year-old Colombian driver during an immigration enforcement operation in Biddeford, Maine. Homeland Security says the vehicle tried to flee and posed a threat, while Maine investigators said preliminary evidence suggested the motorist was driving toward the officer; conflicting accounts remain because the officers had no body cameras and available security video does not show when shots were fired. The officer is on leave, with investigations underway by Maine authorities, DHS’s inspector general and the FBI. Immigrant-rights groups say the victim was authorized to work in the United States, while the shooting has intensified protests and scrutiny of the Trump administration’s mass-deportation campaign.

Fans gathered outside Madison Square Garden hoping for glimpses of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s highly private wedding, which remained tightly shielded through NDAs, security, and restricted access. With no official photos released, artificial intelligence–generated images circulated online but were quickly debunked by fans adept at spotting digital anomalies. Artist Justin Gignac collected discarded items from outside the venue and turned them into memorabilia, reflecting the emotional significance Swift’s work holds for followers. Despite the secrecy, fans expressed trust that Swift will share details on her own terms, echoing themes of privacy and control that have shaped her career.

Brockton will impose an overnight curfew before Cape Verde’s World Cup match against Argentina following recent violence during post‑game celebrations. Mayor Moises Rodrigues cited multiple shootings and stabbings as reasons for the temporary measure, which restricts late‑night activity and alcohol service. Police report understaffing and reliance on mutual aid, and the city has requested National Guard support. Officials emphasized that most celebrations have been peaceful but said the curfew is needed to manage crowds and protect public safety.

Fans, journalists and team supporters from several countries faced significant travel and visa barriers attending the 2026 World Cup despite the tournament’s expanding global reach. U.S. immigration policies, including high visa refusal rates and recent restrictions, prevented many from entering, creating stark disparities in supporter presence across matches. While some diaspora communities celebrated locally, others described frustration and lost opportunities. Calls were made by human rights officials to ease policies, but despite consular expansions, many applications remained denied or pending. The tournament highlighted both the growing global participation in football and persistent inequalities in international mobility.

Rumours of a possible Taylor Swift wedding in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, intensified after a large tent appeared near her seaside estate, prompting curiosity from fans, tourists and locals. Despite widespread speculation linking the tent to Swift and Travis Kelce, event planners and residents indicated it was unrelated and noted that such tents are common for local weddings. Police officers and business owners described ongoing interest in Swift’s presence but said the frenzy has mellowed over the years. Visitors debated the likelihood of a local wedding, though many found the logistics impractical compared to New York, where Swift also has residences.

Cities across the southeastern United States have become training bases for World Cup 2026 teams, drawing significant local excitement as Spain settles in Chattanooga, Germany in Winston-Salem and Iraq at a West Virginia resort. Communities have embraced the visiting teams with events, decorations and expanded hospitality, while schools and universities prepared facilities to meet FIFA standards. Fans, students and residents describe the rare access to world-class players as inspiring and culturally unifying, with many adopting new teams to support during the tournament.

Karen Read filed a lawsuit against the Massachusetts State Police and the town of Canton, alleging systemic misconduct and negligence in the investigation that led to her prosecution for the death of Boston police officer John O’Keefe. The complaint cites extensive evidence of inappropriate conduct by lead investigator Michael Proctor and former Canton police sergeant Sean Goode, asserting broader failures in oversight by state and local law enforcement. Proctor was previously fired for sending derogatory messages during the investigation, while Goode resigned following misconduct allegations.

Jerome Powell was honored at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library with the Profile in Courage Award for defending the Federal Reserve’s independence despite pressure and personal attacks from the Trump administration. He warned that removing bank officials over policy disagreements would endanger the Fed’s credibility. Powell remains on the Fed’s governing board through 2028, preventing a replacement appointment. The award was also given to Twin Cities residents recognized for their actions during a federal immigration crackdown.

Jerome Powell used his Profile in Courage Award acceptance speech to warn against political interference in US institutions, emphasizing the Federal Reserve’s independence as essential to democracy. He cautioned that dismissing officials over policy disagreements would undermine the central bank’s credibility. Powell, frequently criticized by Donald Trump during his tenure, also defended universities, courts, and Congress while acknowledging past missteps in handling pandemic-era inflation. The ceremony additionally honored Minnesota residents who supported immigrant communities during a federal crackdown, with speakers highlighting their acts of bravery and the importance of civic courage.

Ride-hailing drivers in Massachusetts certified the first statewide union for app-based workers, aiming to address concerns over pay, expenses and sudden deactivations. The effort comes as autonomous vehicle expansion intensifies anxieties about job security. Organizers highlight rising costs and opaque algorithms as drivers seek protections, while companies emphasize job flexibility. The unionization push is seen as a model for similar movements in other states and a collective response to the growth of driverless technology.

Thousands of residents in Garden Grove remain evacuated as crews work to cool an overheated tank holding flammable methyl methacrylate at a GKN Aerospace facility. Internal pressure and temperature have decreased, reducing but not eliminating the explosion risk. Health and environmental agencies report no contamination but will continue monitoring air and water systems. Residents express cautious relief as experts warn that full safety requires further temperature reductions. GKN Aerospace apologized for the disruption amid renewed attention to past regulatory violations.

An evacuation order for thousands of residents near a Garden Grove, California chemical plant was lifted after a damaged tank containing flammable methyl methacrylate showed reduced temperatures and pressure. About 34,000 people were cleared to return home, though a minimal risk of explosion or spill remains. Authorities reported no release of fumes or contamination despite earlier concerns, following initial evacuations of around 50,000 residents after the tank overheated at the GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems facility.

Evacuation orders were lifted for most residents near the GKN Aerospace plant in Garden Grove, California, after falling temperatures in a damaged chemical tank reduced the immediate risk of explosion. Emergency officials reported that roughly two‑thirds of the 50,000 evacuated residents could safely return home, though a smaller risk of fire or a minor blast remains. Experts cautioned that the chemical, methyl methacrylate, must cool further before the site is considered fully stable. Air and water monitoring will continue for months, while residents expressed relief at improved conditions. GKN Aerospace apologized for the disruption as authorities work to secure and drain the tank. Industry analysts noted that disruptions at specialized aerospace manufacturing facilities can strain global supply chains.

A crack in a chemical tank at a GKN Aerospace facility in Garden Grove reduced internal pressure and lowered the temperature of volatile methyl methacrylate, eliminating the immediate threat of an explosion. Despite the stabilization, about 50,000 residents remain under evacuation as authorities warn of continued safety risks. The tank holds up to 7,000 gallons of the hazardous chemical, which had been venting vapor since last week. Residents have filed a federal class‑action lawsuit against GKN Aerospace, citing concerns over health risks and declining property values.

Authorities confirmed that pressure and temperature in a damaged chemical tank in Garden Grove had decreased after a crack relieved internal buildup, reducing the immediate risk of an explosion but leaving evacuation orders for roughly 50,000 residents in place. Fire crews continued cooling operations and temperature monitoring to prevent a leak or renewed risk, while health officials highlighted potential hazards of methyl methacrylate exposure. GKN Aerospace apologized for the disruption as residents filed a class-action lawsuit, and emergency declarations enabled state and federal support. Continuous drone monitoring and containment measures aimed to limit environmental impact while officials assessed ongoing safety concerns.

Harvard’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences voted to limit A grades in undergraduate courses, aiming to counter widespread grade inflation that has made top marks common. Beginning in fall 2027, no more than 20 percent of students in a course, plus four additional students, may receive an A, while A-minus and other grades remain unrestricted. The policy accompanies a shift toward using percentile rank instead of GPA for academic honors. A proposal allowing courses to opt out via a satisfactory/unsatisfactory system failed. The changes follow national concerns over rising GPAs and will be reviewed after three years.

A new Rock & Roll Hall of Fame exhibit showcases Paul McCartney’s post‑Beatles reinvention through Wings, featuring personal artifacts, instruments, handwritten notes and photographs by Linda McCartney. Curators highlight the band’s focus on family life, experimentation and large‑scale touring innovations. The exhibit includes rare items such as George Martin’s handwritten scores and contributions from former band associates, coinciding with renewed public interest driven by a new documentary and upcoming book.

A jury found NFL player Stefon Diggs not guilty of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault charges stemming from a December incident involving his former live‑in chef Jamila Adams. The trial centered on conflicting accounts, with Adams alleging physical assault and the defense arguing that financial disputes and relationship tensions motivated the accusation. Witnesses close to Diggs testified they saw no injuries on Adams in the days following the alleged incident, while prosecutors emphasized power dynamics in their relationship. The judge repeatedly instructed Adams to give direct answers during testimony. Ultimately, jurors concluded prosecutors had not presented sufficient credible evidence to support the charges.

Testimony continued in the assault trial of former NFL player Stefon Diggs as Jamila Adams, a former live‑in chef, described being slapped and choked during a December incident, allegations Diggs denies. The defense argued there is no evidence supporting the accusations and suggested Adams sought money after reporting the incident. Diggs has pleaded not guilty to charges of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault, and a jury has been seated in Norfolk County District Court.

Federal investigators concluded that Claudio Neves Valente selected Brown University and MIT professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro as symbolic targets connected to grievances tied to personal failure, isolation and perceived injustice. The FBI found that he spent years planning the attacks, acted alone, and left videos confessing without remorse. The weapons were legally purchased in Florida. Injured students have filed a lawsuit claiming Brown University failed to act on earlier warnings and provide adequate security.

Thirteen artworks worth more than $500 million were stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in 1990, a case that remains the largest art heist in history and unsolved. Former FBI agent Geoff Kelly details how investigators traced the artworks through criminal networks, pursued leads involving Boston mob figures, and struggled with limited resources, misplaced theories, and the deaths of key suspects. Despite identifying likely perpetrators, authorities lacked conclusive evidence, and time limits undercut potential charges. The missing paintings, considered difficult to sell due to their notoriety, continue to generate false leads, but Kelly believes they still exist and may eventually resurface.

A rare corpse flower bloom at Mount Holyoke College’s Talcott Greenhouse attracted large crowds drawn by its strong odor resembling decaying flesh. The plant, known as Amorphophallus titanum and nicknamed Pangy, last bloomed in 2023 and opened again after weeks of rapid growth. Visitors described a range of intense smells while staff noted the bloom’s evolutionary purpose of attracting pollinators. The brief event highlighted the greenhouse’s educational mission and the plant’s unusual biological adaptations as the scent diminished later in the day.

A Guinness World Record was set at Philadelphia International Airport with 1,291 cheesesteak sandwiches arranged in a line to mark National Cheesesteak Day. Organized by MarketPlace PHL, the event highlighted the city’s signature food as volunteers assembled the sandwiches between airport terminals. After certification, the food was distributed to travelers, airport staff, and unpaid TSA workers in accordance with rules requiring edible donations for record attempts.

Boston marked the 250th anniversary of the British evacuation with reenactors marching from St. Augustine Chapel to Dorchester Heights, commemorating the Continental Army’s first major Revolutionary War victory enabled by George Washington’s fortified artillery positions. Participants, including descendants of Revolutionary War soldiers, highlighted the emotional significance and bravery tied to the historic event.

Brothers Matt and Craig Taylor have turned their pandemic project into a thriving business renting meticulously crafted mobile Irish pubs across New England. The taverns, designed with authentic details such as antique fixtures, church pews and traditional decor, serve as gathering spaces for neighborhood parties, St. Patrick’s Day events and family celebrations. The pubs have been embraced by communities, rented by organizations including Guinness, and used for events ranging from parades to celebrations of life. Hosts and guests describe the pubs as evocative, personal spaces that foster connection, tradition and Irish cultural nostalgia.

Large crowds were expected in South Boston for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, a major Irish heritage celebration featuring marching bands, floats, veterans' groups and local organizations. City authorities coordinated safety and transportation plans and urged attendees to prepare for closures and heavy transit use. The parade, which aligns with Evacuation Day commemorations, typically draws tens of thousands and was scheduled to run from late morning into the afternoon.

Massachusetts prosecutors plan to drop a domestic assault charge against New England Patriots player Christian Barmore due to concerns about proving the case. The woman who made the complaint declined to travel out of state, and prosecutors noted Barmore had not been arrested at the time of the initial report. His attorney maintains no crime occurred. The Patriots have informed the NFL of the situation.

A Rhode Island attorney general report documenting decades of sexual abuse within the Diocese of Providence has provided survivors with a sense of vindication and renewed calls for accountability, support, and institutional reform. Survivors recount long-suppressed memories and years of being dismissed by church leaders, while advocates emphasize the need for compensation, therapy, and transparency. Church officials acknowledged past failures, though some survivors reject these statements as insufficient. The report arrives amid shifting public attitudes driven by earlier national investigations, highlighting long-standing barriers to justice in Rhode Island, including restrictive laws that hinder civil action. The findings reinforce demands for continued reforms and greater recognition of survivors’ experiences.

Two men, Franeek Cobb and Derrick Long, were arrested for a shooting inside Cincinnati’s Riverfront Live nightclub that left nine people wounded. All victims were hospitalized in stable condition. Authorities have not identified a motive, and the homicide unit, with assistance from the FBI and ATF, continues investigating. The gunfire occurred during a birthday event hosted by DJ Fresh. Witness accounts described chaos as attendees fled, and officials stated the incident is not believed to be terrorism.

A court-ordered deadline for the U.S. government to return Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a Babson College student mistakenly deported to Honduras, approached as her lawyers accused federal officials of delaying action and potentially preparing to detain her again upon arrival. Despite a previous court order halting her removal, she was deported in November due to a failure to activate an alert system. A federal judge ordered her return to allow judicial review, but government attorneys argued the court lacked jurisdiction and appeared to plan her detention in Texas. Her legal team vowed to continue contesting the removal and insisted she should not be returned in handcuffs.

A house explosion in Taunton, Massachusetts, left a mother and child seriously injured and destroyed the three-family home, displacing eight residents and damaging neighboring houses. Emergency crews responded amid challenging post‑snowstorm conditions, and state and local fire investigators began determining the cause. The city opened a warming center for displaced residents while authorities urged the public to avoid the area.

A 33-year-old harbor seal named Reggae at the New England Aquarium uses rubber ducks as part of daily enrichment training that supports memory, problem‑solving, and engagement. Trainers emphasize the role of enrichment in cognitive stimulation and relationship‑building, with sessions involving object manipulation and reward‑based cues. Viral social media clips have highlighted Reggae’s playful interactions with the toys. The aquarium notes that structured care, training, and enrichment contribute to the seals’ longevity, with some surpassing typical wild lifespans.

Stefon Diggs is scheduled for arraignment in Massachusetts on felony strangulation and related charges stemming from an alleged dispute with his personal chef. The hearing was postponed until after the Super Bowl to accommodate his playing schedule. Court documents state the woman reported being struck and choked during a December encounter, while Diggs’ attorney denies the allegations and attributes them to a financial dispute. Investigators note the complaint was filed two weeks after the incident. The upcoming arraignment will address bail and future court dates.

Court records show that many of the more than 100 immigrants detained in Maine during ICE’s recent enforcement surge had minor or unresolved cases despite federal claims that arrests targeted dangerous criminals. While a few individuals, such as Dominic Ali, had serious violent convictions, others highlighted by ICE had dismissed charges, low-level offenses, or no criminal history. Local officials and immigration attorneys argue that ICE blurred distinctions between arrests and convictions and rapidly transferred detainees out of state, prompting multiple habeas petitions to prevent disruptions to ongoing immigration proceedings. The cases raise questions about the accuracy of ICE’s “worst of the worst” narrative and the broader impact of the operation on Maine’s immigrant community.

Maine’s governor Janet Mills and senator Susan Collins issued sharply contrasting responses to a surge in ICE enforcement operations that led to over 100 arrests across the state. Mills demanded judicial warrants and transparency from federal officials and criticized the actions as reckless, while Collins defended lawful enforcement and urged protesters not to obstruct ICE activity. Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner condemned the operation and posted guidance on resisting ICE. Residents in immigrant communities reported heightened fear, including an Ecuadorian man who said agents threatened his family. Homeland Security officials said the operation targets dangerous criminals. Demonstrations were organized in several Maine cities as concern grew about the impact on local communities.

Maine’s governor demanded detailed information from federal authorities about a large immigration enforcement operation as fear spread among immigrant communities in Portland, Lewiston and other areas. State officials said they lacked basic data on arrests, the individuals detained, or the justification for the scale of the operation, while community leaders reported families avoiding work and school. The surge drew criticism from Democrats and disruptions at schools and businesses. Federal agencies defended the operation as targeting serious criminal offenders but did not release updated figures or warrant information. Demonstrators gathered to call for transparency and due process amid concerns over secretive arrests and an internal memo authorizing warrantless home entries.

Federal investigators discovered videos in a New Hampshire storage unit showing Claudio Neves Valente had planned the Brown University shooting for at least six semesters. The recordings, made after he killed two students at Brown and later murdered MIT professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro, contain admissions of long-term planning but no explanation for his targets. Valente expressed no remorse and referenced being injured during the attacks. The FBI located the device while executing a search warrant as part of the ongoing investigation.

A severe winter storm is disrupting parts of the United States, producing heavy snow, strong winds and dangerous cold, with officials urging against non‑essential travel. Following a recent bomb cyclone that caused extensive power outages, new snow squalls and whiteout conditions are forecast for the Eastern U.S., including New York. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula saw up to two feet of snow, while wind chills in North Dakota and Minnesota dropped to minus 30°F. On the West Coast, strong Santa Ana winds and additional storms may affect Southern California, potentially impacting the Rose Parade for the first time in 20 years.

A powerful winter storm following a bomb cyclone brought heavy snow, strong winds and dangerous cold across parts of the United States, prompting travel warnings and widespread power outages. New York officials cautioned residents about expected whiteout conditions, while Michigan and the Great Lakes region saw rapid snowfall, hazardous waves and exposed lakebed due to shifting water levels. Extreme wind chills affected the northern Plains, and high winds in Iowa continued to hinder travel after blizzard conditions. On the West Coast, strong Santa Ana winds raised concerns about downed trees, with additional storms expected to bring rain to Southern California and potentially impact the Rose Parade.

A powerful winter storm is bringing heavy snowfall, blizzard conditions and dangerously low wind chills to the Upper Midwest, with parts of the Great Lakes region expected to receive more than a foot of snow. Forecasters warn of whiteout conditions in the northern Plains and wind chills as low as minus 30 Fahrenheit in North Dakota and Minnesota. The South, after experiencing record warmth, is bracing for severe thunderstorms, a sharp temperature drop and strong winds as a cold front moves through. The system is expected to intensify as frigid Canadian air collides with unusually warm southern air, extending colder conditions into the New Year across the southern United States.

A strong winter cyclone moving east from the Plains is expected to produce blizzards in the Midwest and Great Lakes, freezing rain in New England, severe thunderstorms in the South, and widespread strong winds as cold air collides with unusually warm southern temperatures. The storm follows earlier weather-related flight disruptions during the holiday travel period. California, meanwhile, is recovering from recent storms that caused flooding, mudslides, and multiple fatalities.

Investigators traced Claudio Neves Valente’s movements across New England before he carried out a deadly shooting at Brown University and later killed MIT professor Nuno Loureiro. Surveillance footage, witness tips, and vehicle tracking helped connect the incidents, though Valente concealed his identity and evaded capture until he was later found dead in New Hampshire. Victim identifications and a key tip about a Nissan with Florida plates enabled authorities to link the two attacks and reconstruct Valente’s path in the days leading up to the shootings.

Authorities expanded their search for the Brown University shooting suspect by asking the public to review personal and security footage from days before the attack. Investigators released videos of a person of interest and continued canvassing neighborhoods, collecting roughly 200 tips while urging patience. Limited camera coverage in the older engineering building hindered efforts and sparked criticism, including from Donald Trump. Campus security protocols came under scrutiny but were defended by university leadership. Providence remained tense with heightened police presence as misinformation circulated online. A campus service honored victims Ella Cook and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, while several wounded students remained hospitalized.

A search continues for the gunman who killed two students and wounded nine others in a Brown University classroom, with investigators lacking clear eyewitnesses, camera footage or a confirmed suspect. Released security videos show a masked person of interest, but authorities have not identified a motive. The victims include Ella Cook and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, while several injured students remain hospitalized. Officials note limited camera coverage in the building and believe the attacker entered and exited from a residential-side entrance. Brown’s president highlighted the university’s emergency alert systems and urged against online speculation after a student was doxed.

Authorities released additional surveillance footage of the suspect in the Brown University shooting that killed two students and injured nine others, though the individual’s identity remains unknown. Police, the FBI, and other agencies continued canvassing Providence and urged the public to review personal camera footage to aid the investigation. Officials acknowledged gaps in available video and ongoing frustration over limited visibility of the gunman. Campus security measures and the university’s emergency systems drew scrutiny, while community members sought solace at a campus service. Details about the victims emerged, including students who remain hospitalized. Security at Providence schools was increased as the city continued to grapple with fear and uncertainty.

Authorities continue searching for a masked gunman who killed two students and wounded nine others at Brown University, releasing new videos and offering a reward while acknowledging limited camera coverage near the attack site. A previously detained person of interest was released, prompting renewed questions about campus security and the investigation’s direction. Victims were identified as Ella Cook and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, with several wounded students still hospitalized. Officials urged public assistance, increased school police presence, and conducted extensive evidence searches around Providence as investigators reported steady progress.

Police renewed efforts to locate the gunman who killed two Brown University students and wounded nine others after releasing a detained person of interest due to insufficient evidence. The lack of surveillance footage from the engineering building has hindered progress, and authorities urged local residents and businesses to provide any video that could aid the investigation. The shooting occurred during final exams, causing widespread chaos on campus as officers searched the area. Among the students affected was Mia Tretta, a survivor of a previous school shooting, who described the traumatic experience of facing a second incident. Community members later gathered for a vigil honoring the victims, and Brown University canceled all remaining classes and exams for the semester.

Prosecutors presented evidence that Brian Walshe conducted online searches about disposing of a body and purchased cleaning supplies and tools on the day his wife Ana disappeared. Surveillance footage, items recovered from a trash facility, and testimony from friends and investigators were presented to support allegations of premeditation. The defense argued Walshe panicked after finding Ana dead, acknowledging he lied to investigators. With no body recovered, the cause of death remains undetermined as closing arguments approach in the first-degree murder trial.

Churches in Illinois and Massachusetts have created nativity scenes depicting modern immigration enforcement to highlight fears of deportation and family separation, prompting both support and condemnation. Supporters frame the displays as reflections of parishioners’ lived experiences amid intensified federal raids, while critics call them inappropriate and politically divisive. Tensions have grown as the Boston Archdiocese ordered one display removed and activists pressed for disciplinary action. Church leaders and volunteers defend the scenes as expressions of faith-based concern for refugees and immigrant families, while reactions from local communities range from solidarity to accusations of misusing sacred imagery.

A federal judge ruled that Rümeysa Öztürk, a Turkish PhD student at Tufts University, may resume her academic work after her visa was revoked and her SEVIS record terminated by the Trump administration, leading to her detention and inability to continue teaching or research. The court found she is likely to succeed on claims that the government’s actions were arbitrary, unlawful, and violated her First Amendment rights. Government attorneys argued the termination was legal, citing concerns that her pro‑Palestinian advocacy could undermine U.S. foreign policy. Öztürk and her lawyers contend she was punished for protected speech and that the loss of her SEVIS status has hindered her academic progress. The ruling enables her to continue her studies while legal challenges to her arrest, detention, and visa revocation continue.

A Brazilian visiting Harvard Law instructor, Carlos Portugal Gouvêa, left the United States after agreeing to voluntary departure following his arrest for firing a BB gun near a synagogue during Yom Kippur. Homeland Security labeled the incident antisemitic, though the synagogue later said it did not appear to be motivated by antisemitism. Most charges were dismissed except a misdemeanor for discharging a BB gun, for which Gouvêa received six months of pre-trial probation and was ordered to pay restitution. His J-1 visa was revoked shortly after the incident. Harvard declined to comment, while the University of São Paulo defended his reputation and human rights advocacy.

Daily use of increasingly potent cannabis products has grown in the United States, leading some users to develop dependence marked by brain fog, anxiety, and compulsive consumption. Individuals who initially used cannabis for relief describe difficulty recognizing addiction as it develops gradually, particularly with high‑THC vapes and concentrates. Medical professionals warn that high potency increases risks, while effective treatments and clinician education remain limited. Former heavy users and online support communities highlight the challenges of quitting and the influence of commercialized cannabis markets. Experts call for balanced, informed use rather than prohibition, emphasizing that risks often outweigh benefits.

Descendants of enslaved potter David Drake have received two of his stoneware jars from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston under a landmark restitution agreement, marking one of the first major U.S. cases involving art created by an enslaved person. The family returned one jar to the museum for public display and leased the other, emphasizing the importance of preserving Drake’s legacy. Drake’s signed and inscribed jars, notable for asserting identity during slavery, offer descendants a rare genealogical link. The restitution has prompted further inquiries from collectors and museums about ethical approaches to holding Drake’s work.

Brian Walshe remains on trial for the first‑degree murder of his wife Ana Walshe despite pleading guilty to disposing of her body and misleading police. Prosecutors cite his internet searches on dismemberment, surveillance footage of him discarding heavy bags, and recovered items including cutting tools, a Tyvek suit, and Ana Walshe’s belongings. He claimed she left for a work emergency that her employer denied. Investigators note her $2.7 million life insurance policy naming him as beneficiary. He was previously sentenced in an unrelated art fraud case involving fake Andy Warhol paintings.

Two Massachusetts men were arrested and charged with conspiracy to cause damage by fire or explosives after a cherry bomb detonated inside a locker at Harvard Medical School’s Goldenson Building. Authorities say the men lit a Roman candle outside and entered the building through the roof, with surveillance footage capturing them approaching the site. Officials emphasized that the incident was intentional but caused no injuries or structural damage. The Boston Fire Department confirmed the blast was deliberate, and investigators reported no additional devices were found.

Two men visiting Boston for college Halloween events were arrested for setting off fireworks inside Harvard Medical School’s Goldenson Building, where a cherry bomb placed in a locker exploded without causing injuries or structural damage. Surveillance footage and witness accounts tied the individuals to the act, which authorities emphasized was a federal crime rather than a prank. Officials stated there is no ongoing threat as the investigation continues.

Historic New England athenaeums, including those in Boston, Providence, and Salem, continue to serve as cultural and community hubs, blending rare book collections, art, and inviting reading spaces. Originally founded as exclusive institutions, many now offer public access and memberships while fostering connection through discussions, research, and remote work. Patrons value the historic ambiance, sense of peace, and opportunities for curiosity and community engagement.

Four South African rowers of color are competing at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, reflecting broader efforts to expand diversity and access within an elite, historically exclusionary sport. Advocates from the U.S. and South Africa highlight barriers such as cost, limited access to waterways, and socioeconomic inequality rooted in past racist policies. Programs supported by foundations and community groups have increased participation among underrepresented athletes and provided essential resources like transportation and coaching. Participants and organizers emphasize the importance of representation and visibility, even as political shifts in the U.S. raise concerns about diversity initiatives. Despite challenges, the athletes view their presence at the regatta as both a milestone and an opportunity for future generations.

Thirteen pro‑Palestinian protesters were arrested in Boston after a clash with police in which four officers were hospitalized with non‑life‑threatening injuries. One protester, Roder Atwood, faced additional serious charges and received a $10,000 bail. The confrontation occurred when protesters blocked roads and impeded police vehicles responding to another emergency, prompting officers to intervene. The demonstration marked the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on southern Israel and was organized by Students for Justice in Palestine groups, who urged universities to divest from companies tied to Israel.

Karen Read’s attorneys asked a judge to dismiss the emotional distress portion of a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of slain Boston police officer John O’Keefe. They argued the family lacked legal standing because none witnessed O’Keefe’s death. The family’s lawyers countered that Read caused distress through alleged disinformation and statements made to O’Keefe’s niece. Read was previously acquitted of murder but convicted of drunken driving. Civil proceedings resumed after her criminal trials, and the family is also pursuing claims against two bars the couple visited before the incident.

ICE has escalated immigration enforcement across Boston and other sanctuary cities as part of a new operation, leading to widespread detentions and heightened fear among immigrant communities. Advocates report increased ICE presence in public areas and arrests of workers, prompting event cancellations and community mobilization. Public officials remain divided, with Republican leaders praising the crackdown while city leaders like Boston Mayor Michelle Wu condemn the actions and face federal lawsuits over sanctuary policies. The operation is transferring hundreds of detainees across New England, drawing protests and raising concerns that noncriminal immigrants, including asylum-seekers, are being targeted. Critics argue the strategy is tearing families apart and sweeping up individuals with no criminal history as federal authorities defend their approach and pledge further prosecutions.

Massachusetts will require state health insurers to cover all vaccines recommended by the state health department, regardless of federal CDC guidance, following extensive federal restructuring under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Governor Maura Healey framed the move as protecting access to vaccines amid narrower federal recommendations. The policy covers respiratory virus vaccines and routine childhood immunizations. Kennedy faced bipartisan criticism in a Senate hearing as he defended scaling back COVID‑19 vaccine recommendations and the dismissal of the CDC director.

Public memorial services in Rhode Island will honor retired municipal judge Frank Caprio, whose compassionate courtroom style and popular show “Caught in Providence” brought him global recognition. Caprio, who died at 88 from pancreatic cancer, inspired widespread tributes, with supporters traveling internationally to attend services. His family expressed gratitude for the global outpouring of support. Known for his empathetic approach to justice, Caprio credited his upbringing in an Italian immigrant family for shaping his values. Visitation will be held at the Rhode Island Convention Center, followed by a funeral Mass at the Cathedral of Saints Peter & Paul.

Rip currents intensified by Hurricane Erin are creating dangerous conditions along the U.S. East Coast, with authorities reporting multiple deaths and rescues this year. Meteorologists warn that New England will face rising waves and strong surf as the storm moves north, especially around Nantucket. Safety officials advise swimmers caught in rip currents to stay calm and swim parallel to the shore, stressing that fighting the current directly is futile. Warning flag systems and National Weather Service forecasts help alert beachgoers to hazards, while experts caution against untrained rescue attempts and urge swimming near lifeguards.

A manatee was sighted off Cape Cod, marking the first appearance in the region in nearly a decade. Scientists warn the animal may be at risk due to cold water temperatures and limited food sources and are preparing for a potential rescue if it is found again. The manatee was initially filmed near Mashpee and later pushed off tidal flats by bystanders in Mattapoisett before disappearing. Experts note manatees rarely travel this far north and may have followed warm Gulf Stream currents. Authorities urge the public to report any sightings to assist in locating the animal.

Federal funding freezes imposed by the Trump administration have halted or jeopardized billions in research at Harvard, forcing layoffs, canceled grants and stalled scientific projects across public health, neuroscience and social science. University researchers describe major setbacks, with some projects potentially unrecoverable even if legal challenges succeed. While Harvard argues the cuts are retaliatory following its refusal to implement government demands tied to antisemitism concerns, the administration denies political motives. Some faculty believe the pressure has prompted needed reforms, but many warn that the freeze reflects a broader attack on science that threatens the long-standing partnership between U.S. universities and the federal government.

A federal appeals court rejected Dzhokhar Tsarnaev’s request to remove Judge George O’Toole from overseeing the review of potential juror bias in his death sentence case, ruling that the judge’s public comments did not warrant recusal. The First Circuit previously ordered an inquiry into whether jurors should have been disqualified, which could lead to a new penalty-phase trial if bias is confirmed. Tsarnaev’s death sentence had been reinstated by the Supreme Court after earlier being overturned due to inadequate juror questioning about media exposure. Issues raised by the defense include the trial location and allegations that two jurors misrepresented information during selection, though Tsarnaev’s guilt is not contested.