Raquel Ciampi

Brianna Bloyer was convicted of third-degree murder in the August 2024 death of 2-year-old Bentlee Myers in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors presented evidence of extensive bruising and traumatic injuries, along with Google searches about making bruises fade and Bloyer’s admission that she threw the child and did not call emergency services. The child’s father, Brett Bissett, pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and cooperated with prosecutors. The Fayette County district attorney said the conviction delivered justice for Bentlee.

Police in Washington County, Pennsylvania, charged James Powell of Valley Grove, West Virginia, after missing Little Debbie products prompted an investigation. Authorities allege Powell created fake delivery invoices, forged signatures from employees at Shop 'n Save, Giant Eagle and Walmart, and collected commissions for deliveries that never occurred. Stewart Snacks reimbursed the affected retailers, and prosecutors are seeking $17,167.97 in restitution. Powell faces forgery, theft and deceptive business-practice charges and is awaiting extradition from West Virginia.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro proclaimed July 24, 2026, LeBron James Day after James announced that he would join the Philadelphia 76ers. James said the move would be his “last decision” after considering retirement and expressed confidence that he could help the team win a championship. Reports indicated that he agreed to a two-year, $8 million deal.

Authorities say Ruth Hicks falsely reported that her 4-year-old son was injured by a dog before doctors determined he had been shot. After learning the injury was from a firearm, she allegedly instructed her 17-year-old daughter to dispose of the remaining ammunition. Hicks faces charges including child endangerment, corruption of minors and evidence tampering.