Paul Farrell

Search teams in northern Pakistan found the remains of American climber Mallory Geis weeks after an avalanche swept away a 10-person international expedition on Broad Peak. Authorities concluded that all expedition members died, including renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja and Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi. Rescuers recovered several bodies despite severe weather, while military personnel, local volunteers and Sherpas continued recovery efforts. Broad Peak’s extreme altitude, avalanche danger and rapidly changing weather made the operation particularly difficult.

Andrew and Tristan Tate are seeking bail from a Miami federal judge while contesting extradition to the United Kingdom, where they face allegations of rape, assault and human trafficking that they deny. Their lawyers argue that their public profiles make them unlikely to flee and propose surrendering their passports and accepting electronic monitoring. Federal prosecutors oppose release, citing flight risk and danger to the community; a hearing is scheduled for 13 August. The case has also prompted Representative Yassamin Ansari to call for an investigation into the brothers’ alleged ties to people in Donald Trump’s orbit.

Andrew and Tristan Tate are seeking bail in Miami while contesting extradition to the United Kingdom, where they face charges including rape, assault and human trafficking involving four alleged victims. Their lawyers argue that their public visibility makes flight unlikely and propose surrendering their passports and wearing electronic monitors. Prosecutors must respond before an August bail hearing, while the UK has until September 16 to submit its full extradition request. The case has also prompted Democratic Representative Yassamin Ansari to seek an investigation into the brothers' reported relationships with figures connected to President Donald Trump's family and administration.

Former California state parks superintendent Kevin Pearsall faces five felony eavesdropping counts, 23 misdemeanor counts of secretly filming people and three misdemeanor counts related to disseminating private recordings. Prosecutors allege that he recorded male lifeguards changing in the Bolsa Chica State Beach locker room over an 11-month period beginning in August 2024, after a USB drive was found there. Attorneys for the alleged victims say some may have been underage and feared that the recordings could become public. Pearsall is also accused of sending suggestive images and making comments about victims' bodies. He retired in 2025 after the allegations emerged and could face up to 18 years in prison if convicted.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney joked about a malfunctioning teleprompter by contrasting his response with Donald Trump’s past calls for investigations into similar incidents. The exchange highlighted strained Canada–US relations amid tariffs and Trump’s suggestion that Canada become the 51st state. Carney also withdrew his confidence in FIFA president Gianni Infantino, calling his failure to consult advisers over a proposed $20 billion World Cup management company a potentially fatal governance error. The proposal, which involved private investors linked to the Kushner family, was abandoned after opposition from UEFA, national federations and other confederations, but scrutiny of FIFA’s leadership continues ahead of the next presidential election.

Los Angeles County health officials warned people to stay out of the water at Venice Pier, Santa Monica Pier, Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey, and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro after samples showed bacteria levels above California health standards. The advisories coincide with hot weather expected to draw large crowds, while an earlier warning near the Wilshire Boulevard storm drain has been lifted. Beachgoers are advised to check the county health department's latest guidance before swimming.

A Los Angeles Superior Court judge revoked an earlier order allowing Hila Cage Coppola to serve Nicolas Cage with a cross-complaint through a newspaper notice. Cage’s attorneys argued that she knew his Nevada residence and had not made sufficient efforts to serve him personally. Her lawsuit seeks damages for defamation, malicious prosecution and intentional infliction of emotional distress, alleging that Cage, his son Weston Coppola and Weston’s mother Christina Fulton interfered in her marriage and mounted a retaliatory media campaign after she filed for divorce.

Health officials warned beachgoers to avoid swimming and other water activities near the Venice and Santa Monica piers, Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro after bacteria levels exceeded California health standards. The warnings remain in effect until testing shows conditions have improved, while an earlier advisory near the Wilshire Boulevard storm drain was lifted after water quality returned to acceptable levels. Officials advise checking current county reports and warn that exposure may cause illness, particularly among children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

A former SpaceX employee, Michelle Dopak, alleges that a supervisor coerced her into a sexual relationship, tied a promotion to continuing it, and later offered her $100,000 to have an abortion after she became pregnant. Her lawsuit also claims discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and unequal pay, alleging that SpaceX management protected the married supervisor. A Los Angeles judge rejected SpaceX's request to compel Dopak to authorize the release of her medical records, though she may have to produce records in her possession if properly requested. The case is scheduled for trial in April 2027.

Photographer Robert Koester, also known as Bert Kay, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to producing child sexual abuse material involving teenage girls in Oregon and California. Prosecutors said he used his modeling agency to lure vulnerable girls as young as 15 to his homes, where he supplied drugs and alcohol, sexually abused them, and recorded the assaults. The federal sentence follows a separate 25-year California sentence for related rape and sexual assault convictions. Investigators recovered abusive images, videos, and drug-facilitating substances from his properties, while victims described lasting trauma. Koester apologized and accepted responsibility, and forfeited his Oregon home and photography equipment.

A Los Angeles judge is considering Zach King’s request to dismiss former producer Elisabeth Logan’s lawsuit, which alleges sexual harassment, gender and wage discrimination, retaliation, wrongful termination and other violations of California labor law. Logan claims King cultivated a wholesome public persona while belittling her, excluding her from career opportunities, underpaying her relative to male colleagues and firing her after she complained. King and King Studio LLC deny the allegations and argue that the lawsuit is an attempt to force a financial settlement, citing messages in which Logan previously praised King and her workplace. The judge has taken the motion under submission and has not yet ruled.

Guatemalan authorities evacuated El Porvenir and Las Lajitas, affecting about 250 people, after Fuego volcano became increasingly explosive and produced high lava fountains, ash, gas and pyroclastic flows. An orange alert was declared, National Route 14 was closed and schools in affected areas suspended classes. Fuego has erupted almost continuously since 2002 and caused a devastating 2018 eruption that killed 194 people and left 234 missing.

TKO Group Holdings said the UFC lost roughly $30 million on its invitation-only Freedom 250 event at the White House, after spending about $60 million and failing to recover the costs through sponsorships. The event reduced TKO’s second-quarter profit margins, although the company reported higher overall revenue. Despite the financial loss, it drew approximately 8.2 million US viewers and 34 million worldwide, ranking among the most-watched UFC events. Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria in the headline bout to win the UFC lightweight championship.

Donald Trump is scheduled to return to California to headline a Republican National Committee fundraiser at his Rancho Palos Verdes golf club. The White House says he will promote his administration's record on the economy, border security and crime while attacking California Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic leadership. Newsom has criticized Trump and Republicans over the federal minimum wage, contrasting it with California's planned $17.40 hourly rate. Trump is expected to travel to Las Vegas afterward for a speech on the economy and tax relief.

Walmart and Sam’s Club agreed to a pre-litigation settlement with Los Angeles County over allegations that third-party tracking tools, including Meta Pixels, collected and shared customers’ personal and purchase information without consent. Walmart will pay approximately $908,815, including a $388,815 restitution fund for eligible customers who visited its website between January 1, 2020, and May 20, 2024. The agreement also prohibits sharing customer information without consent and requires compliance with state privacy and consumer protection laws.

U.S. Indo-Pacific commander Adm. Samuel Paparo said the United States would prevent China from dominating the region and accused Beijing of using legal claims to justify intimidation and coercion. Tensions remain high in the South China Sea, particularly between China and the Philippines, while Washington says it supports international law and freedom of navigation without taking sides on territorial claims. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro warned that China’s expanding military reach is a broader regional concern. Despite the rhetoric, ASEAN and China reportedly are making progress toward a long-awaited South China Sea code of conduct.

Malibu’s Point Dume Beach has been closed indefinitely because severe coastal erosion has destabilized bluffs, access roads and parking areas. Damaged underground water lines have forced the closure of several restrooms, while temporary facilities remain available. Recent high tides and heavy surf worsened erosion in areas weakened by the January 2025 Palisades Fire, highlighting California’s broader coastal-erosion risks amid climate change.

Lindsay Clancy’s murder trial is entering its second week, with testimony expected from police and medical personnel before the court examines her mental health. Prosecutors allege she intentionally killed her three children in Duxbury, Massachusetts, while her defense argues that postpartum psychosis, bipolar disorder and medication-related complications left her unable to distinguish reality and criminally responsible. The case also involves medical malpractice lawsuits alleging that healthcare providers failed to recognize the severity of her condition. A murder conviction would bring life without parole, while a finding of not guilty by reason of lack of criminal responsibility would result in commitment to a state psychiatric facility.

Point Dume Beach and parts of Westward Beach Road in Malibu have been closed indefinitely after high tides and heavy surf worsened severe coastal erosion, damaging roads, parking areas, utilities and unstable bluffs. Officials warn of drop-offs of up to eight feet and urge visitors not to cross barriers. The damage follows the 2025 Palisades Fire, which destroyed homes and removed seawall protection, while scientists say stronger storms, atmospheric rivers and rising sea levels are accelerating erosion across California and putting coastal infrastructure and properties at increasing risk.

Cuba’s national electricity grid collapsed again, leaving roughly 10 million people without power. The outage follows three nationwide blackouts in July and is attributed largely to the island’s aging infrastructure and an oil blockade imposed by the United States under Donald Trump. Fuel shipments from Venezuela and Mexico reportedly halted after Washington deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, further worsening Cuba’s energy shortages.

Patti Smith was reportedly giddy and nearly speechless during a private audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. Accompanied by Holy See official Antonio Spadaro, she discussed shared Chicago connections, music, memories and hopes with the pope. Smith has maintained ties to the Vatican through her friendship with Spadaro, previously met and performed for Pope Francis, and recently performed at the Vatican’s Venice Biennale pavilion. The meeting followed a concert honoring Leo by tenor Andrea Bocelli.

A Wall Street Journal report claimed Tesla executives had discussed separating the company’s China operations to clear geopolitical and regulatory obstacles to a possible merger with SpaceX. Elon Musk denied that such discussions had ever occurred, calling the report “absurdly fake news.” Merger speculation has grown after SpaceX’s $75 billion fundraising and Musk’s remarks about increasing overlap between the companies, but Tesla’s large Shanghai manufacturing operation and dependence on the Chinese market would make any separation highly complex.

Elon Musk denied a Wall Street Journal report that Tesla executives had explored separating, selling or shutting down Tesla’s China operations to facilitate a possible future merger with SpaceX, calling the report “absurdly fake news.” The reported discussions were preliminary, while any merger would face substantial regulatory and geopolitical obstacles because SpaceX is a major U.S. defense contractor and Tesla operates a crucial manufacturing hub in Shanghai. China is Tesla’s second-largest market, and the Shanghai factory produces more than 950,000 vehicles annually, with recent deliveries, sales and exports rising despite intensifying competition from domestic manufacturers such as BYD.

TSA officers at Gulf Shores International Airport found five Civil War-era cannonballs in a passenger’s checked suitcase. The inert artifacts had been stolen from Fort Morgan and secretly placed in the suitcase by a juvenile, while the passenger believed she had legally purchased them at a roadside stand. The cannonballs were returned to the fort, which declined to pursue charges, and no one was injured.

Max Sebastian Solomon, 25, was arrested in Irvine on felony vandalism suspicion after more than a dozen Teslas were spray-painted with terms including “Nazi” and “fascist.” Investigators matched surveillance footage of the vandalism with video showing Solomon spitting at a Tesla and used a takeout bag displaying his name to identify him. Police said the incidents reflected his personal hostility toward Tesla. The vandalism occurred amid broader attacks on Tesla vehicles linked to Elon Musk’s political role in the Trump administration, leaving owners concerned about damage and personal targeting.

A three-day anti-trafficking operation conducted in San Diego during Comic-Con International led to the arrest of 27 suspected sex buyers and the recovery of nine suspected trafficking victims, including seven adults and two juveniles. Authorities said the operation targeted demand for commercial sex, which they argue fuels trafficking, and connected all recovered victims with support services. Officials emphasized that buying sex is not a victimless crime and noted that similar enforcement operations are conducted during Comic-Con each year.

Sullivan & Cromwell has joined Donald Trump's effort to persuade the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn E. Jean Carroll's $83.3 million defamation judgment, reversing an earlier indication that it would not handle the case. The firm reportedly changed course after intervention by Trump's adviser and lawyer Boris Epshteyn, prompting criticism from attorneys including George Conway. Trump and the Justice Department argue that presidential immunity and the Westfall Act shield him from personal liability for statements made while he was president. Carroll's verdict has been upheld by lower courts, although payment remains paused while the Supreme Court considers Trump's appeal.

Lauren Pisciotta and Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, reached an unconditional settlement resolving her civil lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court, with undisclosed terms and no admission of liability. Pisciotta had accused Ye of sexual harassment, sexual assault, sex trafficking, coercion, wrongful termination, swatting and other abusive conduct. Ye has consistently denied the allegations, while his representatives called them baseless and accused Pisciotta of blackmail and unreasonable financial demands.

Irish musician Glen Hansard, frontman of The Frames and an Oscar-winning singer, is reported to have died aged 65 after a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Lucan, near Dublin. Tributes came from Ryan Tubridy, Rachel Zegler, Michael Martin, Mike Scott and Dawn O’Porter, who highlighted Hansard’s musical talent, generosity and concern for Ireland and homelessness. His agents said his family was deeply shocked and heartbroken; he leaves a wife and three-year-old child.

Ismael Vega, a 42-year-old Los Angeles man, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison and ordered to pay $253,415 in restitution for throwing rocks and burning debris at California Highway Patrol officers during an anti-immigration enforcement protest in June 2025. Vega pleaded guilty to obstructing law enforcement during a civil disorder and acknowledged that his actions created a substantial risk of death or serious injury. He is the fifth defendant sentenced in the case, while co-defendant Yachua Mauricio Flores and lead defendant Adam Charles Palermo face upcoming sentencing.

A Los Angeles judge has agreed to seek assistance from an Australian court to compel testimony from witnesses in the defamation lawsuit brought against Rebel Wilson by The Deb producers Amanda Ghost, Gregor Cameron and Vince Holden. The producers say testimony from Greer Simpkin and Neaome “Noni” Roy will challenge Wilson’s allegations of embezzlement, financial irregularities, misuse of funds and false imprisonment. Wilson has countersued, alleging theft, bullying, sexual misconduct and inflated budgets, and is appealing an earlier ruling that rejected her attempt to dismiss the producers’ case.

Retired Los Angeles County Fire Department assistant chief Frank Forman has sued Los Angeles County, alleging that department leaders prioritized women and people of color in promotions and passed him over despite his experience and qualifications. Forman claims Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone promoted diversity-focused practices and that temporary acting roles gave selected candidates an advantage. He alleges the experience caused emotional distress. County attorneys have asked the court to dismiss the case, arguing that encouraging diversity does not constitute unlawful discrimination and denying that preferential treatment was promised.

A Los Angeles judge granted producers Amanda Ghost, Gregor Cameron and Vince Holden a request to seek testimony from Australian witnesses in their defamation case against Rebel Wilson over the film The Deb. The producers say Greer Simpkin and Neaome “Noni” Roy will refute allegations of embezzlement, coercion, false imprisonment, misconduct and financial irregularities. Wilson has countersued, alleging theft, bullying, sexual misconduct and manipulation of the film’s budget. Her effort to dismiss the producers’ lawsuit was denied in November 2024, and the judge is scheduled to consider her request to delay the trial on Aug. 13.

A motion for a preliminary injunction in Vasquez Perdomo v. Noem alleges that federal immigration agents in the Los Angeles area continued warrantless stops targeting people perceived to be Latino and low-income, and used racist slurs. The filing cites body-camera footage and sworn testimony, while immigrant-rights groups argue that the enforcement was driven by race rather than safety or individualized suspicion. The plaintiffs claim violations of the Fourth and Fifth Amendments. Judge Maame E. Frimpong has scheduled a September 24 status conference; the Department of Homeland Security and White House had not responded to the allegations.

A Los Angeles judge rejected actor Mario Rodriguez’s request to force Tyler Perry to give an earlier deposition in Rodriguez’s sexual assault lawsuit. Perry has agreed to an in-person deposition on December 9, while his attorneys accuse Rodriguez of filing a frivolous motion to pressure Perry into accepting a multimillion-dollar settlement and damage his reputation. Perry denies the allegations and argues that Rodriguez suffered no damages; a case management conference is scheduled for October 16.

Jimmie "Chris" Duncan was released from Louisiana’s death row after nearly 27 years when courts overturned his 1998 conviction for the rape and murder of 23-month-old Haley Oliveaux. The ruling rejected the bite-mark evidence used against him as scientifically indefensible, while new evidence indicated that Haley’s death was consistent with accidental drowning. Haley’s mother, Allison Layton Statham, now says she does not believe Duncan killed her daughter and accuses prosecutors of constructing a false narrative. Duncan was released on a $150,000 bond, but prosecutors continue to seek reinstatement of his conviction and death sentence while the Louisiana Supreme Court reviews the case.

A UCLA study of third- and sixth-grade students in California found a statistically significant association between cellphone ownership and lower reading comprehension scores, even when phones were not brought to school. Lead author Patricia Greenfield said the relationship appeared regardless of the child’s age. The study also found that sixth-graders from non-English-speaking homes who began texting earlier performed comparably to peers without phones, suggesting that the relationship may vary by home language and technology use.

Jimmie “Chris” Duncan was released on $150,000 bond after a Louisiana judge overturned his 1998 murder conviction, which relied heavily on bite-mark evidence now considered scientifically unreliable. New expert testimony indicated that the child’s death was consistent with accidental drowning, and the Louisiana Supreme Court said no rational juror could have convicted Duncan on the original scientific evidence. The child’s mother now supports Duncan’s innocence, while the state attorney general and prosecutors continue seeking reinstatement of the conviction and the death penalty. The case underscores the history of wrongful convictions associated with bite-mark analysis and Louisiana’s death-penalty system.

A UCLA study of third- and sixth-grade students in California found that children who owned cellphones had significantly lower reading comprehension scores than classmates without phones, regardless of whether they brought the devices to school. The findings suggest that school cellphone bans alone may not address the issue. However, children from Arabic- and Spanish-speaking households who began texting in second or third grade achieved sixth-grade reading scores comparable to non-phone owners, indicating that earlier texting may support literacy for some multilingual students.

A Piper PA-28 lost engine power shortly after departing John Wayne Airport, forcing pilot Mike Bremner to declare a mayday and land on a crowded Huntington State Beach during the 2026 U.S. Open of Surfing. Bremner and his 16-year-old nephew, Griffin, survived unharmed, as did everyone on the beach. The Federal Aviation Administration will investigate the cause of the engine failure.

Nikki Campus, a transgender former NBCUniversal and Universal Studios worker, alleges that she faced derogatory treatment after beginning her transition and was sexually harassed by a supervisor. She claims the supervisor retaliated after she rejected an alleged sexual advance and reported his conduct, including by criticizing her work, denying her a promotion and cutting her schedule from full-time hours to only a few hours every several weeks. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, but the allegations have not been proven in court and the defendants had not filed responses.

A viral video appears to show a man repeatedly kicking a California sea lion at La Jolla Cove while another person laughs. NOAA’s Office of Law Enforcement is investigating, but the suspect has not been identified. The incident may violate the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits harassing protected sea lions and requires people to maintain a safe distance. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the alleged abuse and ordered local authorities to review the footage.

A Canadian woman of Chinese origin was arrested in Belgium on suspicion of spying for an unidentified third country and belonging to a criminal organization while working as an intern at NATO's SHAPE headquarters in Mons. Belgian authorities searched her home and workplace after a security alert from SHAPE. NATO said there was no indication that its operational readiness, command and control, or ongoing tasks had been compromised, while the investigation remains ongoing.

Ayries Blanck, a former OneTaste saleswoman, has asked a judge to dismiss the company’s lawsuit alleging that she violated a 2015 confidentiality settlement by publicly discussing allegations against OneTaste. Her attorney argues the suit was filed after California’s three-year fraud-claim deadline, because the company allegedly knew about her statements as early as 2018. The dispute follows the conviction and nine-year federal prison sentence of OneTaste co-founder Nicole Daedone on a forced-labor conspiracy charge.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge linking Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit has opened to commercial traffic, creating a six-lane alternative to the privately owned Ambassador Bridge and a new gateway for U.S.-Canada trade. The roughly $6.4 billion project, funded by Canada, is expected to accelerate freight movement, create jobs and increase tourism. Its opening was overshadowed by President Donald Trump’s announcement of 50% tariffs on Canadian imports and his criticism of Canada’s ceremony, which U.S. and Michigan officials skipped. Under a revised agreement, Canada will eventually share toll revenue with the U.S. government and Michigan after recovering construction costs.

NOAA Fisheries is investigating a viral video allegedly showing a man repeatedly kicking a federally protected sea lion at La Jolla Cove in San Diego. The unidentified person could face fines or jail under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria condemned the incident and asked local authorities to review the footage, while PETA and other animal-welfare advocates called for accountability. The San Diego Police Department said it was not notified when the incident occurred and that the case was referred through California wildlife authorities to NOAA.

Nvidia is reportedly considering a financing guarantee of up to $250 billion to help OpenAI lease a 10-gigawatt data center being developed in southern Ohio by a SoftBank energy subsidiary. Separate financing for Nvidia chips could reach $350 billion, bringing the project’s total estimated cost above $500 billion. The first phase is expected to provide 800 megawatts of computing capacity in 2028. The project would help OpenAI reduce reliance on Microsoft, Amazon and Oracle, while strengthening Nvidia’s long-term chip demand. Access to the site’s U.S.-controlled power allocation reportedly involves Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, with Anthropic, Microsoft and Google also discussing the resource.

Former OneTaste employee Ayries Blanck is asking a Los Angeles court to dismiss the company's fraud lawsuit, arguing that its claims over her public disclosures were filed after California's three-year statute of limitations. OneTaste alleges she violated a 2015 confidentiality and non-disparagement settlement; her attorney says the company knew or should have known about her statements years earlier. The dispute follows the conviction and nine-year federal prison sentence of OneTaste co-founder Nicole Daedone for forced labor conspiracy, along with restitution for seven victims and plans to appeal. Alan Dershowitz has said he intends to seek presidential pardons for Daedone and former sales director Rachel Cherwitz.

Nearly 1.6 million dozen white and brown cage-free eggs from Midwest Poultry Services were recalled after possible Salmonella Enteritidis contamination, affecting Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana and Brookshire Grocery locations in several states. Separately, 4,173 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases across 41 states have been linked to contaminated lettuce, prompting Taylor Farms to recall iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the outbreaks were under control, while the FDA maintained that a false-positive laboratory test did not change its investigation or the lettuce recall.

Former CIA director James Woolsey has died at his Washington home after suffering a stroke, according to his wife, who also said his health had deteriorated because of what she described as Havana syndrome. Woolsey led the CIA from 1993 to 1995 during the exposure of CIA officer Aldrich Ames, defending the agency against criticism while warning against paranoia and false accusations. A veteran national-security official, Woolsey also served in the Navy Department, advised presidents from both parties and helped negotiate the 1990 Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty between NATO and the Warsaw Pact.

Federal officials recalled nearly 1.6 million dozen eggs from multiple states due to possible Salmonella contamination, as the U.S. also confronts a widespread cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to contaminated lettuce. The FDA and CDC report thousands of confirmed and potential cases across 41 states, with Michigan most affected. Taylor Farms previously recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from Mexico after epidemiological evidence linked it to the parasite outbreak. Authorities maintain the situation is under control while investigations and recalls continue.

Donald Trump attended a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base for four U.S. service members killed in Iran-linked attacks in Jordan and Iraq. The deceased were identified as Tyler James Feehan, Isabella Gonzales, Angel S. Rampersad and Michael Emmanuel Swinton. Trump expressed sympathy to the families and said U.S. strikes against Iran were being conducted in honor of the fallen. The ceremony came amid escalating conflict, stalled efforts toward an interim agreement and a reported total of 18 U.S. service members killed since the war began.

Nine of 33 plaintiffs suing UCLA and the University of California Board of Regents are asking to remain anonymous, citing fears of harassment, doxxing, violence and deportation. The lawsuit alleges that UCLA failed to protect protesters during the 2024 pro-Palestinian campus demonstrations and challenges university investments linked by the plaintiffs to the war in Gaza. UC Regents attorneys deny wrongdoing and say calling law enforcement to clear the encampment was necessary after violence erupted.

Rapper Blueface was held at gunpoint during a Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department response to a swatting hoax at his Santa Clarita home. The caller falsely claimed that Blueface had killed his girlfriend, was under the influence of drugs, and had tied up their daughter. Deputies found no victims or threats and released everyone detained, while investigators work to identify the caller.

Amber Rose is suing Beverly Hills social club Gravitas and the company responsible for its decorations, alleging that a large holiday ornament fell onto her head during a New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31, 2024. She claims the incident caused brief loss of consciousness, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, chronic headaches, vertigo and balance problems, impairing her daily life and ability to work. Rose is seeking unspecified damages for medical costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Authorities responded to a hoax swatting call reporting that rapper Blueface had killed his girlfriend and restrained their daughter, but a search of his Santa Clarita home found no victims or threats. Deputies detained occupants at gunpoint before determining the report was unfounded. Investigators are seeking the caller. The incident occurred while Blueface was livestreaming and follows ongoing legal issues and a public parental dispute with rapper Chrisean Rock.

Amber Rose has filed a lawsuit against the Beverly Hills social club Gravitas, alleging that a large holiday ornament fell from the ceiling and struck her head during a New Year’s Eve event, causing ongoing physical and emotional injuries. The complaint claims the decoration was improperly installed and created an unreasonable risk to patrons. Rose reports persistent symptoms including headaches, vertigo, neck pain and cognitive issues. She seeks unspecified damages for medical costs, lost earnings and suffering. Gravitas has not commented, and the allegations remain untested in court.

Nine plaintiffs suing UCLA over its handling of pro-Palestinian demonstrations seek court approval to remain anonymous, citing fears of harassment, violence, and immigration consequences if identified. The broader lawsuit, filed by 33 individuals, accuses UCLA and the UC Board of Regents of civil rights violations, inadequate protection during clashes with far‑right groups, and investment ties to companies alleged to profit from the Gaza conflict. Plaintiffs detail professional, academic, and personal risks, while university attorneys argue officials acted appropriately by bringing in law enforcement to clear the encampment for campus safety.

President Donald Trump will attend a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base for four U.S. service members killed in recent fighting linked to the conflict with Iran. The fallen include soldiers killed in missile and drone attacks in Jordan and Iraq, as well as one previously missing and now presumed dead. Trump described the ceremony as an honor and tied the troops’ mission to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon while warning of further retaliation if additional U.S. personnel are harmed. The Defense Department identified the victims and detailed planned posthumous honors as the U.S. continues retaliatory strikes amid stalled efforts to end the conflict.

A U.S. bankruptcy judge approved the sale and restructuring of the abandoned Oceanwide Plaza project in downtown Los Angeles, enabling KPC Square and Lendlease to move forward with a more than $1.2 billion overhaul aimed at completing the stalled development before the 2028 Olympics. The new ownership will invest heavily to finish the structurally sound towers, remove widespread graffiti, and transform the long-derelict site. The decision follows the withdrawal of objections from city and county officials, and local residents welcome plans to revive the prominent property.

Tropical Storm Bertha is approaching the northern Gulf Coast, prompting warnings of flooding rain, storm surge up to four feet and possible tornadoes from Florida to Louisiana. The slow-moving storm may linger near the coast for days, raising risks of flash flooding before drifting toward Texas. Communities in Alabama and Florida are preparing with safety measures and sandbag distribution. In the eastern Pacific, Hurricane Fausto has strengthened but remains far from land, though it may produce hazardous surf near Baja California.

Former adult film performer Litzy Lara Banuelos, professionally known as Emily Willis, will receive a $3 million settlement approved by a Los Angeles judge after suffering an anoxic brain injury during or following treatment for ketamine addiction at Summit Malibu in 2024. The injury left her permanently incapacitated and unable to move. Banuelos and her mother alleged that the treatment center failed to provide appropriate care, while Summit Malibu denied wrongdoing and argued that Banuelos had refused medical advice, medication and recommendations for outside treatment. The settlement required judicial approval because Banuelos cannot manage her own affairs.

A $3 million settlement was approved for Litzy Lara Banuelos, known professionally as Emily Willis, after she suffered irreversible anoxic brain injury during a stay at Summit Malibu rehab. The lawsuit filed by her mother alleged negligence and abandonment by the facility, while Summit Malibu denied wrongdoing and argued Banuelos refused medical advice. A Los Angeles judge approved the agreement due to Banuelos’ inability to manage her affairs. Once a major adult film performer, she now remains profoundly incapacitated, responding only intermittently.

A preliminary NTSB report says a Tesla Model 3 traveling over 70 mph on a 30 mph residential street crashed into a Katy, Texas, home after driver Michael Butler manually overrode Full Self-Driving by fully depressing the accelerator. The crash killed 76-year-old Martha Avila. The findings support Tesla's claim that driver actions, rather than the assistance system, caused the collision, while the NHTSA continues a separate investigation into the crash and broader concerns about Tesla's driver-assistance technology.

California parole officials denied Robert Beausoleil release for the 19th time over the 1969 torture and murder of musician Gary Hinman, a crime prosecutors say helped initiate the Manson Family’s violence. The denial extends his incarceration by another three years. Governor Gavin Newsom previously overturned two parole grants, while Hinman’s cousin welcomed the decision and Beausoleil’s attorney argued that he has rehabilitated after more than five decades in prison.

California is not experiencing an increase or local outbreak of cyclosporiasis despite surges in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and other parts of the United States. The state recorded 41 provisional cases from January through June 2026, down from 80 during the same period in 2025 and within its historical range. Most California cases were acquired internationally. Health officials are monitoring for locally acquired infections and advise residents to handle food safely and wash produce thoroughly.

California has reported 41 provisional cyclosporiasis cases from January through June 2026, down from 80 during the same period in 2025 and within its historical range. Unlike Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and other states experiencing increases, California has no known local outbreak. Most cases in the state are linked to international travel, although health officials are monitoring infections associated with travel to affected states and investigating whether lettuce served at some Taco Bell restaurants contributed to the broader outbreak. Residents are advised to wash hands and produce thoroughly, prevent cross-contamination, refrigerate prepared food promptly, and avoid potentially contaminated food or water.

Peter Michael Larsen is accused of stabbing a Muslim mall worker, identified by friends as Sohail, at least 15 times inside Valley Fair Mall in West Valley City, Utah. Police allege Larsen asked about the victim’s religion before attacking him and later said he intended to kill Muslims. Sohail remains hospitalized in critical condition, while bystanders subdued Larsen, who faces suspicion of attempted murder and weapons violations. Coworkers and Muslim advocacy groups condemned the attack, and community leaders warned that it has heightened fears of anti-Muslim violence.

Parole officials denied Robert Beausoleil’s release for the 19th time, continuing his imprisonment for the 1969 murder of Gary Hinman. Governor Gavin Newsom has repeatedly overturned previous parole grants, following a pattern established by former Governor Jerry Brown. Relatives of victims, including Kay Hinman Martley and Debra Tate, voiced strong opposition to his release, while Beausoleil’s attorney argued that he has matured and no longer poses a threat. He remains incarcerated at the California Medical Facility in Vacaville.

Broadway actor, director, writer and musical-theatre educator Josh Grisetti has died by suicide at 44, according to fellow actor Rob McClure. McClure and Sierra Boggess paid tribute to Grisetti’s talent and influence on students. Grisetti had recently withdrawn from directing a production of Legally Blonde in Italy for personal reasons and is survived by his wife, Mackenzie.

A Los Angeles police detective has filed a lawsuit claiming the LAPD retaliated against him after he uncovered alleged misconduct in the investigation of Amelia Salehpour’s 2023 death. The suit accuses the department of misclassifying her death as an overdose, failing to properly search a suspected trafficking house and attempting to silence communication with the family. Tan alleges his unit was dismantled and he was transferred in retaliation. The Salehpour family maintains Amelia was vulnerable and improperly released from a recovery facility before being groomed for trafficking. The lawsuit seeks damages for retaliation, lost income and emotional distress.

Broadway actor and educator Josh Grisetti has died by suicide at age 44, prompting tributes from colleagues who praised his artistic talent and impact as a teacher. Rob McClure and Sierra Boggess highlighted his creative influence and dedication to students, while details of his recent departure from directing a production in Italy underscored personal struggles he referenced in a final social media post. Grisetti’s career included notable Broadway roles, international work, and teaching positions at several institutions. He is survived by his wife, Mackenzie, and is remembered for his contributions to theatre and education.

A former executive assistant sued the University of Michigan for allegedly violating the state’s Freedom of Information Act by refusing to release records from the investigation that led to the dismissal of football coach Sherrone Moore. The lawsuit seeks both the documents and punitive damages after multiple denied requests. Moore was fired following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with the plaintiff and later pleaded no contest to related misdemeanor charges. The suit argues the public deserves access to the university’s investigative findings, which reportedly cost $12 million.

Federal prosecutors allege the Southern Poverty Law Center diverted $4.1 million in donor funds to pay informants inside extremist groups, including for activities such as recruiting and purchasing Ku Klux Klan robes. The SPLC denies wrongdoing, arguing the program provided valuable intelligence shared with law enforcement, and accuses the Justice Department of pursuing a politically motivated prosecution linked to perceived adversaries of Donald Trump. Attorney Abbe Lowell entered a not‑guilty plea to an expanded indictment, with the case scheduled for trial in October.

Utah revoked the operating license of Provo Canyon School following repeated violations involving safety, staff conduct, and failure to provide adequate care. Paris Hilton, who has long alleged abuse at the facility and advocated for reform, welcomed the decision as validation for survivors. The school must cease services by early August, and recent lawsuits continue to raise concerns about mistreatment despite new ownership.

SpaceX’s rapid inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 is expected to drive about $4.3 billion in passive inflows as index funds and ETFs adjust holdings, while major Wall Street banks issued bullish coverage citing the company’s potential in space technology, satellite connectivity and artificial intelligence. Analysts highlighted Starship as central to long‑term growth and noted expanding investor interest in SpaceX’s AI ambitions. Despite widespread optimism, Morningstar offered a significantly lower valuation amid uncertainties around AI operations. SpaceX has also been added to FTSE Russell indexes, though S&P Global declined to fast‑track it into the S&P 500. Shares have risen over 6% since the IPO despite volatility.

A nationwide Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that while most Americans plan to celebrate July 4th, many view it primarily as a day off, and one in five will not celebrate at all. Republicans report higher levels of participation in traditional festivities and flag displays compared to Democrats and independents. The survey also reveals significant concern about the country's long‑term stability, with 38 percent doubting the United States will exist as a single nation in 250 years. The findings reflect ongoing political divisions ahead of the country’s semiquincentennial.