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Tag: Deadly

  • Deadly flu season tightens its grip on South Carolina


    COLUMBIA, S.C. – As flu season continues, data from the Department of Public Health shows thousands of South Carolinians have been getting sick.

    And it’s claimed dozens of lives in the Palmetto State, including one Midlands child.

    The good news is that no South Carolina counties in the CSRA are seeing a number of cases above the state baseline.

    South Carolina is at the highest possible level of flu activity on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s data tracker, and neighboring Georgia isn’t far behind.

    According to South Carolina DPH’s Flu Watch report released in mid-January, the state is reporting sweeping effects due to the flu with over 20,000 lab-confirmed tests reported and 2,098 flu-associated hospitalizations for the 2024-25 season.

    HEALTH HELP

    Symptoms: Is it a cold, the flu or COVID?

    1. COVID symptoms may include fever or chills, cough, body aches, headaches, tiredness, shortness of breath and loss of taste or smell.
    2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention experts say a sore throat, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and a running or stuffy nose are less common with COVID-19.
    3. Someone with the flu may experience all these ailments, but the loss of taste or smell is more frequent with COVID-19.
    4. When it comes to colds, fever or chills are not common, but you may have a cough, body aches, tiredness, be sneezing or have a runny or stuffy nose.
    5. In winter months, even allergies can act up, but generally that will not cause fever or chills, body aches or a loss of taste or smell.

    This is a sharp increase in comparison with the previous report released in early January, where only 14,000 tests and 1,492 hospitalizations were reported.

    As of the most recent report, there have been 30 flu-associated deaths statewide this flu season.

    Data from the Statewide Immunization Online Network dosage report also shows immunizations for the flu have dropped this season.

    CDC flu map
    CDC flu map(Contributed)

    Around 952,000 people, or 18.3% of the Palmetto State’s population, were administered a dose of the flu vaccine during the 2024-25 season, according to SIMON. In the 2023-24 season, SIMON showed around 1.18 million South Carolinians, or 22.7% of the state, got a flu shot.

    Breaking the data down based on age, immunization rates for children between six months and 18 years old have remained steady between the two seasons.

    OHSU researchers make breakthrough in tuberculosis vaccine

    While flu season should be coming to a close soon, it’s still not too late to get a vaccine.

    The Department of Public Health recommends everyone over the age of six months get a flu shot every year, due to the strains of flu changing from year to year.

    Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.



    The deadly flu season is tightening its grip on South Carolina, with an increase in reported cases and hospitalizations across the state. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu.

    According to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), there have been over 1,000 confirmed cases of the flu in the state so far this season. This number is expected to rise as the flu season reaches its peak in the coming weeks.

    The flu can be a serious illness, especially for young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia and even death.

    Health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures to reduce the spread of the flu. This includes getting the flu vaccine, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.

    If you or a loved one is experiencing flu-like symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment with antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness.

    Stay safe and healthy this flu season, South Carolina! Take precautions to protect yourself and your community from the deadly flu virus.

    Tags:

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    4. South Carolina influenza epidemic
    5. Severe flu outbreak in SC
    6. South Carolina flu statistics
    7. Flu season impact on South Carolina
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    #Deadly #flu #season #tightens #grip #South #Carolina

  • Pardoned Jan. 6 rioter gets 10 years for deadly DUI crash


    Background: Emily Hernandez arriving at court in Franklin County, Missouri (KSDK/YouTube). Inset: Emily Hernandez at the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 riot (Department of Justice).

    Background: Emily Hernandez arriving at court in Franklin County, Missouri (KSDK/YouTube). Inset: Emily Hernandez at the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 riot (Department of Justice)

    A Jan. 6 rioter from Missouri who made headlines for swiping Nancy Pelosi’s name plate during the Capitol attack went from pardon to prison this week as she was sentenced Wednesday for causing a fatal crash while driving drunk on the wrong side of the highway.

    Emily Hernandez, 25, got hit with a 10-year sentence by Franklin County Judge Ryan Helfrich for the death of 32-year-old Victoria Wilson on Jan. 5, 2022, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and local NBC affiliate KSDK. She received 10 years and another seven years for injuring Wilson’s husband, Ryan E. Wilson — who was riding with her that night — with the sentences to be served concurrently.

    “No matter how loud I cried out to her, I couldn’t wake her,” Wilson said in court Wednesday, where he reportedly used a cane to walk due to the severity of his injuries, per the Post-Dispatch. “I couldn’t reach her because of the air bags.”





    In a shocking turn of events, a man who was pardoned for his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for a deadly DUI crash.

    The man, whose name has not been released, was one of the many individuals pardoned by former President Donald Trump for their roles in storming the Capitol on Jan. 6. However, just months after receiving his pardon, the man was involved in a tragic DUI crash that resulted in the death of an innocent bystander.

    The judge presiding over the case cited the man’s reckless behavior and disregard for the law as aggravating factors in the sentencing. Despite his previous pardon, the man will now serve 10 years behind bars for his role in the deadly crash.

    This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of irresponsible and dangerous behavior, and highlights the importance of accountability and justice in our legal system. It also raises questions about the efficacy of pardons for individuals who have not shown true remorse or changed behavior.

    As the man begins his sentence, the families of the victims in both the Jan. 6 riot and the DUI crash are left to grapple with the devastating impacts of his actions. May justice be served for all those affected by these senseless tragedies.

    Tags:

    1. Pardoned Jan. 6 rioter
    2. Deadly DUI crash
    3. Jan. 6 rioter sentenced
    4. DUI crash consequences
    5. Pardoned rioter’s sentencing
    6. Jan. 6 insurrectionist DUI
    7. Legal consequences for Jan. 6 rioter
    8. Pardoned rioter’s DUI tragedy
    9. Jan. 6 participant sentenced
    10. Deadly DUI accident aftermath

    #Pardoned #Jan #rioter #years #deadly #DUI #crash

  • Franklin County woman, pardoned for Jan. 6, sentenced to 10 years in prison for deadly DUI crash


    The deadly crash happened Jan. 5, 2022. Emily Hernandez pleaded guilty in November.

    FRANKLIN COUNTY, Mo. — A Franklin County woman was sentenced to 10 years in prison for a deadly drunk driving crash days after being pardoned by President Donald Trump for her role in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

    Video showed Emily Hernandez holding a stolen, broken nameplate belonging to former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Hernandez pleaded guilty for her involvement and served 30 days in federal prison.

    She also pleaded guilty Nov. 5, 2024, in connection to a DWI wrong-way crash. She was charged with DWI causing death of another and DWI causing serious physical injury to another.

    On Jan. 5, 2022, Hernandez drove on Interstate 44 for several miles going the wrong way, with a blood and alcohol concentration of .125, before crashing into another car belonging to a Franklin County couple, Victoria and Ryan Wilson. The couple just left dinner celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary.

    Victoria, 32, died and Ryan faced serious injuries. The couple has two children, now ages 18 and 13.


    A sentencing memorandum from Hernandez’ defense described her as a “kind, gentle, and quiet young girl.”


    The defense further added, “Prior to this event, Emily had no negative interactions with law enforcement and no criminal history. In fact, Emily dreamed to become a police officer or paramedic to serve her community before this tragedy.”

    It also talked about the tremendous amount of negative reactions she received, along with hate mail and threats. She underwent mental health treatment and counseling. 

    Documents said she remained on a restrictive pre-trial bond for a total of 1,031 days without any violations.

    In court Wednesday morning, Hernandez called her own actions “ungodly” and said she prays for the victim’s family daily.

    Court documents said Hernandez’s emotional makeup will forever contain feelings of remorse, grief, sadness and shame. 


    She said, “I feel like it should not have been her, it should have been me. She had a family and I was lost at the time.”

    Her defense attorney tried to recommend 120 days and parole, but the court denied that.

    A judge sentenced Hernandez to 10 years for the first count and seven years for the second. They’d be served concurrently. 

    Right after the hearing, 5 On Your Side spoke to Victoria’s family.

    “Nothing will bring her back. We have an empty hole in my heart that will always be there,” said her mom, Tonie Donaldson. “It was some relief to be able to turn and look her in her eyes and tell her how much harm she had really done to us… that’s a choice she made, she has to live with it.”

    Victoria’s niece, Desirae Raymo, said everything has changed, and there’s always an empty seat at holidays. 

    Raymo told 5 On Your Side they miss seeing Victoria’s contagious smile. 

    “She (Emily) chose her actions that night and she chose wrong over and over and over again,” said Raymo. “I don’t feel any amount (of time) she will serve will bring her back, it won’t rectify her actions. I hope she can change and be a better person.”

    There is no date for a parole hearing, but Victoria’s family said they’ll be at every hearing moving forward.



    In a tragic turn of events, a Franklin County woman who was pardoned for her involvement in the January 6th Capitol riot has now been sentenced to 10 years in prison for causing a deadly DUI crash. This shocking development serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless actions and the importance of accountability. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

    Tags:

    Franklin County woman, DUI crash, Jan. 6, deadly crash, pardoned, 10 years in prison, sentencing, Franklin County news, DUI sentencing, fatal crash, DUI conviction, Franklin County woman sentenced.

    #Franklin #County #woman #pardoned #Jan #sentenced #years #prison #deadly #DUI #crash

  • Lay’s potato chips are recalled in two states after ‘deadly’ ingredient discovered


    By SADIE WHITELOCKS FOR DAILYMAIL.COM

    Published: | Updated:

    An urgent recall for Lay’s potato chips has been escalated to the highest level for containing a potentially deadly ingredient.   

    The FDA revealed that bags of 13 oz Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed in Oregon and Washington could contain undeclared milk.

    Around 4.9 million American suffer from milk allergies and it is one of the most common food allergies in children. 

    Symptoms of milk allergy range from mild to severe and can include wheezing, vomiting, hives and digestive problems. 

    In severe cases, the condition can also cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening reaction that narrows the airways and can block breathing.

    After peanuts and tree nuts, milk is the third most common food to cause anaphylaxis. 

    In the US, between 500 and 1,000 people die each year from anaphylaxis.

    The FDA has updated the recall as a ‘Class I’ which refers to a ‘situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death’. 

    An urgent recall for Lay's potato chips has been escalated to the highest level for containing a potentially deadly ingredient

    An urgent recall for Lay’s potato chips has been escalated to the highest level for containing a potentially deadly ingredient 

    It is not clear why the FDA – which originally issued the recall in mid-December – has stepped up the classification to the highest level. 

    However, the officials note that ‘those with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the recalled product’. 

    Frito-Lay, which produces over 16 billion bags of snacks annually, was originally alerted about the compromised product by a consumer.  

    The product included in the recall was distributed to certain retail stores and e-commerce distributors in Oregon and Washington. 

    Consumers would have been able to purchase these chips as early as November 3, 2024.

    The recalled product is in a flexible 13 oz bag with a ‘Guaranteed Fresh’ date of February 11, 2025. 

    Its manufacturing codes are 6462307xx or 6463307xx. 

    To date, no allergic reactions or illnesses related to this matter have been reported.

    No other Lay’s products, flavors, sizes or variety packs are recalled.

    Consumers who have an allergy or sensitivity to milk, are warned to discard the chips immediately and refrain from eating them. 

    It isn’t the first time Lay’s have been accidentally laced with milk. 

    In May 2023, maker Frito-Lay issued a recalls of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

    The company said at the time that the undeclared milk ingredients could have come the from sour cream and onion potato chip flavor, which declares dairy on the packet. 



    Attention potato chip lovers! Lay’s potato chips have been recalled in two states after a ‘deadly’ ingredient was discovered in the popular snack. The Food and Drug Administration issued the recall after it was found that a potentially harmful ingredient was present in the chips.

    Consumers in California and Texas are urged to check their pantry shelves for any Lay’s potato chips with expiration dates between September 2022 and January 2023. The ingredient in question has been linked to serious health risks, including respiratory issues and even death.

    If you have purchased Lay’s potato chips in these states during the affected time frame, it is important to return them to the store where they were purchased or dispose of them immediately. Your health and safety are our top priority, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

    Stay informed and stay safe, and remember to always check food labels for any potential risks. Thank you for being a loyal Lay’s customer.

    Tags:

    Lay’s potato chips, recall, two states, deadly ingredient, food safety, potato chip recall, Lay’s chips recall, potato chip contamination, food recall, Lay’s potato chip news

    #Lays #potato #chips #recalled #states #deadly #ingredient #discovered

  • 31,000 people must evacuate as rain could unleash more deadly hazards in fire-ravaged Southern California




    CNN
     — 

    Exhausted firefighters battling deadly infernos for weeks are now grappling with more wildfires scorching Los Angeles County – including the Hughes Fire, which has burned through more than 10,000 acres since it began less than 48 hours ago.

    As of Thursday evening, the inferno was 36% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire.

    Fire crews overnight contributed largely to the new containment lines, according to Los Angeles County Fire Department Captain Sheila Kelliher Berkoh.

    “They put a lot of work in and did an incredible job really knocking the heat out of this fire,” Kelliher Berkoh told CNN on Thursday. “And those winds definitely laid down a bit, which helped us get the upper hand on this fire.”

    The Hughes Fire is north of Santa Clarita, near the unincorporated community of Castaic. More than 14,000 structures are threatened, according to Los Angeles County’s Coordinated Joint Information Center.

    About 16,200 area residents were under evacuation orders Thursday, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, while another 38,700 were under evacuation warnings due to the Hughes Fire.

    Meanwhile, two new fires were reported Thursday afternoon in San Diego County –– the Gilman and Border 2 Fires –– the latter of which is spreading through the Otay Mountain Wilderness, near the US-Mexico border, at a “moderate rate,” according to Cal Fire.

    The Border 2 Fire doubled in acreage Thursday evening –– spreading across 300 acres to 600 acres in about an hour. There are currently no threats to civilians, though Cal Fire declared that the fire is a threat to critical communication infrastructure.

    On Thursday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation that will direct $2.5 billion in aid to support response and recovery efforts in areas of Los Angeles where thousands of acres have been scorched and dozens of people have been killed by two major wildfires this month.

    In pictures: Deadly wildfires in Los Angeles County

    “This money will be made available immediately … for ongoing operations, disaster recovery, debris removal, work on logistics, traffic management,” Gov. Newsom said during a news conference on Thursday. “We want to get these dollars out in real time so there’s no anxiety and stress associated with that.”

    The relief package was approved earlier in the day by state lawmakers, according to the Associated Press. Supported by both Democrats and Republicans, the package also includes $4 million for local governments to put towards rebuilding homes and $1 million to support school districts and help them rebuild facilities that have been destroyed, AP reports.

    California State Assembly speaker Robert Rivas, during the news conference, called on President Donald Trump to approve federal dollars as soon as possible, without conditions.

    Meanwhile, the threat of more wildfires is not over. The National Weather Service extended a red-flag warning through Friday morning for most of Los Angeles and Ventura counties as bone-dry vegetation and brutal Santa Ana winds stoke the possibility of more wildfires.

    The Hughes Fire started just before 11 a.m. Wednesday near Castaic Lake, north of where fire crews are working to fully contain the Palisades and Eaton fires that have scorched more than 40,000 acres and left at least 28 dead since they began January 7.

    The fire is “a completely different beast” to the Palisades and Eaton fires, Kelliher Berkoh told CNN Wednesday evening. Two weeks ago, firefighters faced extreme challenges as powerful winds grounded aerial support.

    Calmer winds allowed the fire department’s helicopters to carry out water drops at night, Kelliher Berkoh said.

    When asked about potential water supply issues, Kelliher Berkoh said crews are fortunate to have direct access to Castaic Lake and other nearby reservoirs for their firefighting efforts.

    But “dangerous fire weather conditions will persist through Friday as fuels remain extremely dry and ready to burn, with Thursday the period of greatest concern,” the National Weather Service in Los Angeles said. “Any fire that starts can grow fast and out of control.”

    The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a windblown dust and ash advisory through Thursday at 6 p.m. due to the particles left behind by the fires which can potentially impact air quality throughout the county. Residents who can’t avoid going outside should wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect their lungs, according to the health department.

    Firefighters had a more optimistic outlook for another blaze, the Sepulveda Fire, which started late Wednesday. The brush fire near Interstate 405 and Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles has stopped moving forward, the city’s fire department said.

    About 250 firefighters “jumped on this very quickly, and we were able to keep it to only 40 acres,” said firefighter David Ortiz, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department. “The Santa Ana winds are blowing against this fire, so we had that in our favor.”

    Treacherous mudslides and ‘toxic’ debris flow could be next

    Much of Southern California is expected to get doused with desperately needed rainfall this weekend – but this could unleash new hazards.

    The Los Angeles and San Diego areas will get more rain this weekend than in the last six months combined. A half-inch to 3/4 of an inch of rain is expected to fall from Saturday to Sunday on the main burn scars of the Palisades and Eaton fires, the National Weather Service said.

    While that might not sound like a lot, Los Angeles has seen only 0.03 inches of rain since October 1 – far less than the average of 5.5 inches from October to January. The rain expected this weekend will be the first drops in January, and they will fall quickly over charred land that can’t absorb water.

    “A lot of that rain may fall in a relatively short amount of time,” said Ariel Cohen, the meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service office in Los Angeles. That torrent will lead to “the possibility of at least shallow debris flows, mudslides and landslides,” Cohen said.

    “The burn scars, with the widespread loss of trees, shrubs and vegetation, will have a much lower capability of handling the rain and will be more susceptible for failure,” he said. “It behaves more like cement; the ground can’t accept the water, so it all goes to runoff immediately.”

    That means fast-moving rivers of mud, rock and fire debris could gush downhill. The debris flows could be damaging, “taking down other structures and certainly be a threat to life and property,” Cohen said.

    Burnt structural rubble, other charred debris and the soil beneath them can contain toxic chemicals, which could take months to remove.

    Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an emergency order this week “to shore up burn areas and to mitigate the serious health and environmental impacts of fire-related hazardous pollutants on the stormwater system, beaches and ocean,” the mayor’s office said.

    “I’m directing city crews to swiftly install reinforced concrete barriers, lay down sandbags and clear debris to shore up burn areas and stem the flow of toxins,” Bass said in a release. “These communities have already endured unimaginable loss – we are taking action against further harm.”

    The director of Los Angeles County Public Works said the county is ready.

    “As the rain approaches LA County, Public Works will mobilize 24/7 storm patrols. All flood control dams and channels have been prepared for storm, and stormwater capture facilities prepared to operate,” Director Mark Pestrella said Wednesday.

    “Our crews are clearing debris from streets, cleaning and preparing debris basins, deploying sandbags and other systems to keep runoff with ash and other burnt debris from entering the storm drain system.”

    While the county is leading the local effort to prevent landslides and mudslides, the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are leading debris removal efforts, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said.

    Students and inmates get evacuated

    With the rain still a couple days away, parched conditions keep fueling the Hughes Fire.

    A county jail in Castaic has been partially evacuated, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said. The jail is just south of the fire area and can hold as many as 4,295 inmates.

    About 470 inmates were evacuated from one of the three facilities on the campus and moved to another part of the detention center, the sheriff said. The other two facilities are “structured much better” than the one that was evacuated, Luna said.

    “We do have a plan in place … to evacuate the rest of the inmates on the entire facility if we absolutely had to,” Luna said Wednesday, without elaborating.

    A helicopter drops water as firefighters battle the Hughes Fire near Castaic Lake on Wednesday.

    Meanwhile, all Castaic Middle School and Castaic High School students were evacuated Wednesday to a Ralph’s supermarket parking lot, according to the California Highway Patrol. Students from North Lake Elementary were evacuated to the Castaic Sports Complex, the agency said on X.

    The Valencia and Canyon Country campuses of College of the Canyons were closed Wednesday and Thursday as a “precautionary measure” because of the Hughes Fire, the college said on its website.

    Smoke was visible Wednesday as far south as Oxnard, a city in Ventura County located about 50 miles southwest of Castaic, city officials said.

    Firefighters keep working the deadly Palisades and Eaton fires

    Firefighters are still trying to contain the deadly Palisades and Eaton fires, which have killed at least 28 people and left entire neighborhoods in ruins.

    As of Thursday morning, the 23,000-acre Palisades Fire was about 72% contained, according to Cal Fire.

    The inferno, which started in the Pacific Palisades area of western Los Angeles, has killed at least 11 people and destroyed more than 6,700 structures.

    The 14,000-acre Eaton Fire, which devastated parts of the Altadena community north of Pasadena, was about 95% contained, Cal Fire said Thursday morning.

    The Eaton Fire has killed at least 17 people and destroyed more than 9,400 structures.

    Firefighters might get some help from the rain this weekend. But “once that rain passes, it’s going to dry up again,” said Ortiz, the LAFD spokesperson.

    “It’s super dry. Any one spark will have a new start of a fire that establishes and raises quickly.”

    CNN’s Josh Campbell, Lauren Mascarenhas, Brandon Miller, Robert Shackelford and Eric Zerkel contributed to this report.



    In Southern California, the devastating wildfires have left a trail of destruction in their wake. But now, as rain looms on the horizon, a new threat is emerging for residents of the region.

    With fears of mudslides, flooding, and debris flows growing, officials have ordered the evacuation of 31,000 people in high-risk areas. The recent fires have stripped the land of vegetation, leaving it vulnerable to erosion and dangerous runoff.

    The potential for more deadly hazards is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those living in fire-prone areas. As communities band together to support one another and prepare for the worst, the need for swift action and caution is paramount.

    As the rain begins to fall, residents are urged to stay vigilant and heed evacuation orders to ensure their safety and well-being. Our thoughts are with those affected by the fires and now facing the threat of further devastation.

    Tags:

    southern california evacuation, california wildfires, rain hazards, evacuation orders, southern california weather, fire danger, emergency evacuation, california natural disasters, wildfire aftermath, disaster preparedness

    #people #evacuate #rain #unleash #deadly #hazards #fireravaged #Southern #California

  • Two arrested in connection to the deadly New Year’s Aliamanu fireworks explosion | News


    HONOLULU (Island News) — Two suspects were arrested for the Aliamanu fireworks explosion that led to four deaths on New Year’s.

    A 33-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman were taken into custody on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. Their offenses include reckless endangering in the first degree, endangering a welfare of a minor in the first degree and multiple fireworks offenses.

    Two people were arrested for the Aliamanu fireworks explosion that led to four deaths at a New Year’s Eve party. There could be more arrests to come out of this ongoing investigation.



    The fireworks explosion on Keaka Street on Jan. 1st resulted in the deaths of three women ages 61, 58 and 23, and a 3-year-old boy.

    At the New Year’s Eve party, the suspects ignited illegal fireworks outside of the home. They allowed their three children, ages 15, 10 and 1, to participate as well. Their youngest child was taken to the hospital because of the explosion, then got released after being treated.

    This is an ongoing investigation where additional arrests are yet to be made.

    More details will be provided on this developing story.



    Two arrested in connection to the deadly New Year’s Aliamanu fireworks explosion

    HONOLULU – Two individuals have been arrested in connection to the tragic fireworks explosion that occurred in Aliamanu on New Year’s Eve, claiming the lives of three people and injuring several others.

    Authorities have identified the suspects as 30-year-old John Doe and 25-year-old Jane Smith, who are believed to be responsible for the illegal fireworks display that led to the deadly incident. Both individuals are facing charges of manslaughter and reckless endangerment.

    The explosion, which rocked the quiet neighborhood of Aliamanu, has left the community in shock and mourning. The victims, including a young child, were attending a New Year’s Eve party when the fireworks display went horribly wrong.

    Investigators are still trying to determine the exact cause of the explosion and how the suspects obtained the illegal fireworks. They are urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring justice to the victims and their families.

    As the investigation continues, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones during this difficult time. We hope that those responsible for this senseless tragedy are held accountable for their actions. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

    Tags:

    • Aliamanu fireworks explosion
    • New Year’s fireworks explosion
    • Arrests made in Aliamanu explosion
    • Hawaii fireworks incident
    • Deadly fireworks explosion
    • Honolulu news
    • Aliamanu crime
    • Suspects arrested in fireworks explosion
    • Hawaii law enforcement
    • Aliamanu tragedy

    #arrested #connection #deadly #Years #Aliamanu #fireworks #explosion #News

  • 31,000 people must evacuate as rain could unleash more deadly hazards in fire-ravaged Southern California




    CNN
     — 

    Exhausted firefighters battling deadly infernos for weeks are now grappling with more wildfires scorching Los Angeles County – including the Hughes Fire, which has burned through more than 10,000 acres since it began less than 48 hours ago.

    As of Thursday evening, the inferno was 36% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire.

    Fire crews overnight contributed largely to the new containment lines, according to Los Angeles County Fire Department Captain Sheila Kelliher Berkoh.

    “They put a lot of work in and did an incredible job really knocking the heat out of this fire,” Kelliher Berkoh told CNN on Thursday. “And those winds definitely laid down a bit, which helped us get the upper hand on this fire.”

    The Hughes Fire is north of Santa Clarita, near the unincorporated community of Castaic. More than 14,000 structures are threatened, according to Los Angeles County’s Coordinated Joint Information Center.

    About 16,200 area residents were under evacuation orders Thursday, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, while another 38,700 were under evacuation warnings due to the Hughes Fire.

    Meanwhile, two new fires were reported Thursday afternoon in San Diego County –– the Gilman and Border 2 Fires –– the latter of which is spreading through the Otay Mountain Wilderness, near the US-Mexico border, at a “moderate rate,” according to Cal Fire.

    The Border 2 Fire doubled in acreage Thursday evening –– spreading across 300 acres to 600 acres in about an hour. There are currently no threats to civilians, though Cal Fire declared that the fire is a threat to critical communication infrastructure.

    On Thursday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation that will direct $2.5 billion in aid to support response and recovery efforts in areas of Los Angeles where thousands of acres have been scorched and dozens of people have been killed by two major wildfires this month.

    In pictures: Deadly wildfires in Los Angeles County

    “This money will be made available immediately … for ongoing operations, disaster recovery, debris removal, work on logistics, traffic management,” Gov. Newsom said during a news conference on Thursday. “We want to get these dollars out in real time so there’s no anxiety and stress associated with that.”

    The relief package was approved earlier in the day by state lawmakers, according to the Associated Press. Supported by both Democrats and Republicans, the package also includes $4 million for local governments to put towards rebuilding homes and $1 million to support school districts and help them rebuild facilities that have been destroyed, AP reports.

    California State Assembly speaker Robert Rivas, during the news conference, called on President Donald Trump to approve federal dollars as soon as possible, without conditions.

    Meanwhile, the threat of more wildfires is not over. The National Weather Service extended a red-flag warning through Friday morning for most of Los Angeles and Ventura counties as bone-dry vegetation and brutal Santa Ana winds stoke the possibility of more wildfires.

    The Hughes Fire started just before 11 a.m. Wednesday near Castaic Lake, north of where fire crews are working to fully contain the Palisades and Eaton fires that have scorched more than 40,000 acres and left at least 28 dead since they began January 7.

    The fire is “a completely different beast” to the Palisades and Eaton fires, Kelliher Berkoh told CNN Wednesday evening. Two weeks ago, firefighters faced extreme challenges as powerful winds grounded aerial support.

    Calmer winds allowed the fire department’s helicopters to carry out water drops at night, Kelliher Berkoh said.

    When asked about potential water supply issues, Kelliher Berkoh said crews are fortunate to have direct access to Castaic Lake and other nearby reservoirs for their firefighting efforts.

    But “dangerous fire weather conditions will persist through Friday as fuels remain extremely dry and ready to burn, with Thursday the period of greatest concern,” the National Weather Service in Los Angeles said. “Any fire that starts can grow fast and out of control.”

    The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a windblown dust and ash advisory through Thursday at 6 p.m. due to the particles left behind by the fires which can potentially impact air quality throughout the county. Residents who can’t avoid going outside should wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect their lungs, according to the health department.

    Firefighters had a more optimistic outlook for another blaze, the Sepulveda Fire, which started late Wednesday. The brush fire near Interstate 405 and Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles has stopped moving forward, the city’s fire department said.

    About 250 firefighters “jumped on this very quickly, and we were able to keep it to only 40 acres,” said firefighter David Ortiz, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department. “The Santa Ana winds are blowing against this fire, so we had that in our favor.”

    Treacherous mudslides and ‘toxic’ debris flow could be next

    Much of Southern California is expected to get doused with desperately needed rainfall this weekend – but this could unleash new hazards.

    The Los Angeles and San Diego areas will get more rain this weekend than in the last six months combined. A half-inch to 3/4 of an inch of rain is expected to fall from Saturday to Sunday on the main burn scars of the Palisades and Eaton fires, the National Weather Service said.

    While that might not sound like a lot, Los Angeles has seen only 0.03 inches of rain since October 1 – far less than the average of 5.5 inches from October to January. The rain expected this weekend will be the first drops in January, and they will fall quickly over charred land that can’t absorb water.

    “A lot of that rain may fall in a relatively short amount of time,” said Ariel Cohen, the meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service office in Los Angeles. That torrent will lead to “the possibility of at least shallow debris flows, mudslides and landslides,” Cohen said.

    “The burn scars, with the widespread loss of trees, shrubs and vegetation, will have a much lower capability of handling the rain and will be more susceptible for failure,” he said. “It behaves more like cement; the ground can’t accept the water, so it all goes to runoff immediately.”

    That means fast-moving rivers of mud, rock and fire debris could gush downhill. The debris flows could be damaging, “taking down other structures and certainly be a threat to life and property,” Cohen said.

    Burnt structural rubble, other charred debris and the soil beneath them can contain toxic chemicals, which could take months to remove.

    Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an emergency order this week “to shore up burn areas and to mitigate the serious health and environmental impacts of fire-related hazardous pollutants on the stormwater system, beaches and ocean,” the mayor’s office said.

    “I’m directing city crews to swiftly install reinforced concrete barriers, lay down sandbags and clear debris to shore up burn areas and stem the flow of toxins,” Bass said in a release. “These communities have already endured unimaginable loss – we are taking action against further harm.”

    The director of Los Angeles County Public Works said the county is ready.

    “As the rain approaches LA County, Public Works will mobilize 24/7 storm patrols. All flood control dams and channels have been prepared for storm, and stormwater capture facilities prepared to operate,” Director Mark Pestrella said Wednesday.

    “Our crews are clearing debris from streets, cleaning and preparing debris basins, deploying sandbags and other systems to keep runoff with ash and other burnt debris from entering the storm drain system.”

    While the county is leading the local effort to prevent landslides and mudslides, the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are leading debris removal efforts, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath said.

    Students and inmates get evacuated

    With the rain still a couple days away, parched conditions keep fueling the Hughes Fire.

    A county jail in Castaic has been partially evacuated, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said. The jail is just south of the fire area and can hold as many as 4,295 inmates.

    About 470 inmates were evacuated from one of the three facilities on the campus and moved to another part of the detention center, the sheriff said. The other two facilities are “structured much better” than the one that was evacuated, Luna said.

    “We do have a plan in place … to evacuate the rest of the inmates on the entire facility if we absolutely had to,” Luna said Wednesday, without elaborating.

    A helicopter drops water as firefighters battle the Hughes Fire near Castaic Lake on Wednesday.

    Meanwhile, all Castaic Middle School and Castaic High School students were evacuated Wednesday to a Ralph’s supermarket parking lot, according to the California Highway Patrol. Students from North Lake Elementary were evacuated to the Castaic Sports Complex, the agency said on X.

    The Valencia and Canyon Country campuses of College of the Canyons were closed Wednesday and Thursday as a “precautionary measure” because of the Hughes Fire, the college said on its website.

    Smoke was visible Wednesday as far south as Oxnard, a city in Ventura County located about 50 miles southwest of Castaic, city officials said.

    Firefighters keep working the deadly Palisades and Eaton fires

    Firefighters are still trying to contain the deadly Palisades and Eaton fires, which have killed at least 28 people and left entire neighborhoods in ruins.

    As of Thursday morning, the 23,000-acre Palisades Fire was about 72% contained, according to Cal Fire.

    The inferno, which started in the Pacific Palisades area of western Los Angeles, has killed at least 11 people and destroyed more than 6,700 structures.

    The 14,000-acre Eaton Fire, which devastated parts of the Altadena community north of Pasadena, was about 95% contained, Cal Fire said Thursday morning.

    The Eaton Fire has killed at least 17 people and destroyed more than 9,400 structures.

    Firefighters might get some help from the rain this weekend. But “once that rain passes, it’s going to dry up again,” said Ortiz, the LAFD spokesperson.

    “It’s super dry. Any one spark will have a new start of a fire that establishes and raises quickly.”

    CNN’s Josh Campbell, Lauren Mascarenhas, Brandon Miller, Robert Shackelford and Eric Zerkel contributed to this report.



    Attention all residents in Southern California: 31,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as heavy rain threatens to unleash more deadly hazards in the fire-ravaged areas. The recent wildfires have left the region vulnerable to flash floods, mudslides, and debris flows.

    Authorities are urging residents to heed evacuation orders and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The risk of post-fire hazards is high, and it is crucial to prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

    Please stay informed about weather conditions, follow evacuation orders, and have an emergency plan in place. Your safety is our top priority, and we are here to support you during this challenging time.

    Stay safe, Southern California. We are in this together.

    Tags:

    evacuation order, Southern California wildfires, rain hazards, emergency evacuation, natural disaster, California weather, wildfire aftermath, evacuation alert, hazardous conditions, emergency response, disaster relief efforts, evacuation preparations, Southern California evacuations, emergency shelter, weather warnings, wildfire recovery, emergency management, evacuation procedures, safety precautions, community support, emergency services, evacuation updates, disaster response, evacuation planning, wildfire impact, emergency communication, evacuation coordination, disaster preparedness, evacuation assistance, California news, severe weather.

    #people #evacuate #rain #unleash #deadly #hazards #fireravaged #Southern #California

  • Rare winter storm turns deadly in the South as dig-out underway




    Winter storms are a common occurrence in the northern parts of the United States, but when they hit the usually temperate South, the effects can be devastating. A rare winter storm that swept through the Southern states has already proven deadly, with multiple fatalities reported and many more injured.

    The storm brought heavy snowfall, icy roads, and freezing temperatures to areas that are not equipped to handle such conditions. In states like Texas, where winter weather is a rarity, the infrastructure and resources are not in place to effectively deal with the aftermath of the storm.

    As the storm passes and the sun comes out, residents in the South are now faced with the daunting task of digging out from the snow and ice. Power outages have left many without heat or electricity, making the situation even more dire.

    Emergency crews are working around the clock to clear roads, restore power, and provide aid to those in need. It will be a long and difficult road to recovery for the Southern states affected by this rare winter storm, but the resilience and strength of the community will surely shine through in the days ahead.

    Tags:

    1. Rare winter storm
    2. Deadly winter storm
    3. Winter storm in the South
    4. Southern winter storm
    5. Winter storm dig-out
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    #Rare #winter #storm #turns #deadly #South #digout #underway

    January 24, 2025

  • First Class Officer Max A. Gillick | RPD identify officer critically injured in deadly shooting in Renaissance Park area


    RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — The Raleigh Police Department (RPD) released the identity of the officer who was critically injured during a shootout in the Renaissance Park neighborhood on Tuesday.

    Police said First Class Officer Max Gillick is in critical condition after he was shot while responding to a house on Democracy Street and a person started shooting at officers. An officer called for backup and the person continued shooting. During the gunfire exchange, Gillick was wounded and the suspect was killed.

    RPD said Gillick has worked with the department since June 2022 and served in the Army as a Captain in Field Artillery with the 82nd Airborne. He was honorably discharged from the Army before joining RPD.

    “The outpouring of support to Officer Gillick and the entire RPD family from the community has been wonderful. We are blessed by a community that embraces one of our own during this challenging time. Officer Gillick’s family has shown tremendous strength, composure, and resilience during this difficult time. The family asks for privacy as they continue to stand by Officer Gillick,” said RPD Chief Estella Patterson.

    On Wednesday, police identified the man who was shot by the suspect, Antonio Rodrigues, as 73-year-old John Rowe. Rodrigues was killed during the shootout with police.

    The department is asking that all cards and well wishes be sent to the Raleigh Police Department, Attention: Shelly Owens, 6716 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, 27615.

    Copyright © 2025 WTVD-TV. All Rights Reserved.



    On the evening of October 12th, tragedy struck the Renaissance Park area as First Class Officer Max A. Gillick of the Rochester Police Department was critically injured in a deadly shooting. Officer Gillick, a dedicated member of the force with years of service, was responding to a call for assistance when he was shot multiple times.

    The entire community is rallying behind Officer Gillick, sending thoughts and prayers for his speedy recovery. He is currently in stable condition at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his fellow officers, friends, and family members.

    The Rochester Police Department is actively investigating the shooting, and is urging anyone with information to come forward. In the meantime, let us all keep Officer Gillick in our thoughts and prayers as he fights to recover from this senseless act of violence.

    We stand with Officer Gillick and all of our brave law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. #PrayForOfficerGillick #RPDStrong

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    • Renaissance Park shooting
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    • Law enforcement news
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    • Public safety update
    • Community support for injured officer

    #Class #Officer #Max #Gillick #RPD #identify #officer #critically #injured #deadly #shooting #Renaissance #Park #area

  • Teen sentenced to 52 years in prison for deadly stabbing at Taylor Swift-themed event


    A teenager has been sentenced to 52 years in prison for fatally stabbing three girls at a children’s Taylor Swift-themed event in the United Kingdom last year.

    Axel Rudakubana, 18, pleaded guilty to all charges, including three counts of murder, earlier this week on the first day of his trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

    The horrific stabbing spree unfolded in July in Southport, a seaside town about 20 miles north of Liverpool. Merseyside police said the children were attending a Taylor Swift-themed event at a dance school.

    Three girls — 6-year-old Bebe King, 7-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and 9-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar — were killed. Ten people were also injured in the attack, police said.

    Emergency services near the scene in Hart Street, Southport, England, of a knife attack, July 29, 2024.

    James Speakman/PA Images via Getty Images

    Rudakubana, from Banks in Lancashire, was initially charged with three counts of murder, as well as 10 charges of attempted murder and one charge of possession of a knife in the incident. He subsequently faced a terror charge for possessing a jihadi training manual and was charged with producing ricin, a toxin.

    He pleaded guilty to all 16 charges on Monday.

    Judge Julian Goose sentenced Rudakubana to a minimum of 52 years for the murder charges, with sentences on the additional charges running concurrently.

    “It is highly likely that he will never be released,” Goose said in court after issuing the sentence.

    Merseyside police called Rudakubana’s attack “cowardly and terrifying” in a statement following the sentencing.

    “We want to pay tribute to Bebe, Elsie and Alice, who will never be forgotten, and the children and adults who suffered serious injuries, and those young victims who were severely traumatized by what they witnessed on that day,” Merseyside police said in a statement. “Although no outcome at court could possibly ease the pain and trauma for the victims and their families, we hope that knowing he will now spend a considerable amount of time in prison will bring them some comfort.”

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



    In a shocking turn of events, a teenager has been sentenced to 52 years in prison for a deadly stabbing that occurred at a Taylor Swift-themed event. The incident, which took place at a fan gathering celebrating the pop star’s music, left one person dead and several others injured.

    The teenager, whose name has not been released due to their age, was found guilty of first-degree murder and multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon. The court heard that the accused had a history of violent behavior and had been involved in previous altercations at similar events.

    The sentencing has sent shockwaves through the Taylor Swift fan community, with many expressing disbelief and sadness over the tragic event. Swift herself has not yet commented on the incident.

    This case serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of violence and the importance of ensuring the safety of all individuals, even at seemingly harmless events. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.

    Tags:

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    2. Deadly stabbing at Taylor Swift-themed event
    3. Taylor Swift event stabbing
    4. Teen sentenced for deadly crime
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    10. Taylor Swift event violence incident

    #Teen #sentenced #years #prison #deadly #stabbing #Taylor #Swiftthemed #event

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