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Alameda Family Massacre: Suspect Identified by Dying Victim, Police Say

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A horrific family massacre in Alameda, California has left the community reeling as authorities piece together the details of a tragedy that claimed five lives, including two young children. The suspect, identified as Shane Killian, 54, was allegedly named by one of the victims in his dying moments, according to police reports.

The Alameda County Coroner’s Office confirmed to PEOPLE the identities of four victims: Brenda Natali Morales, 36, Miguel Carcamo, 70, William Killian, 6, and Wesley Killian, 1. The San Francisco Chronicle, citing the Alameda County Coroner’s Bureau, identified the fifth victim as Morales’ mother, 56-year-old Marta Morales-Diaz.

Alameda police responded to the scene on Wednesday, July 10, after receiving a call about a neighbor being shot. Upon arrival, they found Shane’s father-in-law critically wounded. As they tended to him, their attention was drawn to a nearby residence where they encountered Shane Killian, who was detained without incident.

In a chilling turn of events, the elderly victim, in his final moments, allegedly identified Shane as the killer, according to KTVU, citing law enforcement sources. An Alameda police representative confirmed to PEOPLE that the victim “provide[d] officers with information before passing away,” though they did not elaborate due to the ongoing investigation.

Inside the residence, authorities discovered the bodies of the other victims, revealing the full extent of the tragedy. The victims were identified as Shane’s wife, father-in-law, mother-in-law, and his two young sons.

The massacre has deeply affected the local community. William, the 6-year-old victim, was a member of the Alameda Little League. Ron Matthews, the league’s president, expressed the community’s grief, saying, “Our heart goes out to them in its fullest. This is really harmful to us – hurtful I should say.”

Shane Killian now faces multiple charges, including four counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, corporal injury to a relationship partner, elder or dependent adult abuse, infliction of injury, possession of an assault weapon, and possession of an unconventional pistol. Alameda police expect a fifth murder charge to be added. The motive for the killings remains unclear.

As the community grapples with this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to assist with funeral expenses and the cost of relocating the victims’ bodies to their native El Salvador.

Shane is currently being held without bail, and his defense attorney, Palden Ukyab, has indicated that he is expected to enter a not guilty plea.

This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the impact of domestic violence and the importance of community support in times of tragedy. As the investigation continues, many are left searching for answers and ways to prevent such horrific incidents in the future.

People.com

64-Year-Old Man Jumps to Death from Luxury Midtown Hotel

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New York, NY – July 2024 – A 64-year-old man jumped to his death from a luxury Midtown hotel on Tuesday morning, police said.

The man plunged from room 28 on the 20th floor of The Kimberly Hotel, located on East 50th Street near Lexington Avenue. He landed in the third-floor courtyard, according to police reports. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers pronounced him dead around 10 a.m., and the NYPD responded to the scene at approximately 10:20 a.m.

The identity of the man has not been immediately released. The Kimberly Hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations, featuring 154 spacious suites, most equipped with private balconies. According to the hotel’s website, the lobby prominently showcases a circular salt-water aquarium and antique furnishings.

This tragic incident has drawn attention to the high-end boutique suite hotel, which prides itself on offering opulent amenities and services to its guests. The circumstances leading up to the man’s decision to jump are still under investigation by the authorities.

Somali Militants Kill Five, Seize Heavy Weapons After Looting Convoy

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Mogadishu, Somalia – July 2024 – At least five people were killed when militants ambushed a convoy in central Somalia and seized heavy weapons, the local government and residents reported on Tuesday. The incident comes seven months after a decades-long arms embargo was lifted.

The convoy, traveling on Monday with a security escort near the town of Abudwaq, was attacked by militants from a local clan. The attackers overpowered the security forces, according to four residents who spoke to Reuters. The seized arms included machine guns, anti-aircraft weapons, and rocket-propelled grenades, reportedly originating from neighboring Ethiopia.

“It is unfortunate that five people died from both sides yesterday over weapons,” said Ahmed Shire, a security advisor to the president of Galmudug State, where Abudwaq is located. “We understand the weapons fell into the hands of civilians.”

Rashid Abdi, an analyst with the Sahan Research think-tank, described the incident as “the single most serious incident of arms proliferation in central Somalia” and expressed concern that some of the weapons would likely be bought by Al Shabaab, an Al Qaeda affiliate.

Writing on X, Abdi stated, “It was a clear case of why lifting the arms embargo on Somalia was a big strategic mistake.”

The last restrictions under an arms embargo that had been in place, in some form, for more than 30 years were fully lifted by the U.N. Security Council in June. Somalia’s government had advocated for the move, arguing it would allow the country to better confront security threats and build up its national forces.

Somalia has been battling an insurgency by Al Shabaab for nearly two decades. African Union peacekeepers are drawing down their presence, handing over responsibility to Somali forces. However, the AU and Mogadishu government warned of a possible security vacuum if the process is not carefully managed.

In recent weeks, Al Shabaab has fought alongside government forces in a military campaign against other rebel groups. However, some militants have also turned their weapons on one another in internal conflicts.

Credit: Reuters

Torrential Rains Flood Toronto, Causing Power Outages and Traffic Disruptions

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Cars are halted before a flooded section of the Don Valley Parkway after heavy rains hit Toronto, Ontario, Canada July 16, 2024. REUTERS/Kyaw Soe Oo

Toronto, July 2024 – Intense torrential rain on Tuesday triggered flash flooding across parts of Toronto, Canada’s financial center, leading to widespread power outages, disrupted traffic, and forced airlines to curtail services.

Toronto Hydro, the local power distribution company, announced it was responding to scattered outages suspected to be caused by flooding at a transmission station. By 3 p.m., approximately 123,000 customers were without power.

Billy Bishop Airport, located on an island off downtown Toronto, reported that the underwater pedestrian tunnel leading to the passenger terminal was flooded and temporarily closed, causing delays and cancellations for several flights.

In the evening, much of downtown Toronto’s typically bustling restaurants were darkened, with kitchen workers and waiters gathered outside, awaiting the return of power. The power outage led to traffic lights being out, cars and delivery trucks backing up city streets, snarling intersections and causing significant traffic disruptions.

Experts have pointed out that intense rainstorms are becoming more common due to climate change, placing a heavy strain on infrastructure in many cities not designed to handle such heavy, sustained downpours.

The Toronto Transit Commission, which operates subway, bus, and trolley services, stated that trains were bypassing Union Station, the city’s main rail terminal. GO Transit, which operates train service to and from Toronto’s suburbs, reported that the flooding had caused service disruptions.

Parts of the Don Valley Parkway, a major highway running east of downtown, were submerged. Images showed cars stalled in water several feet deep. One motorist, Rick Zolli, recounted, “I was stuck inside my car on the Don Valley Parkway for more than an hour before rescue teams began arriving. My car was still stuck even when the water receded, so it had to be towed off,” he said.

As emergency services worked to manage the situation, the city’s mayor urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and to stay indoors if possible. Environment Canada has forecast that more heavy rain could continue through the night.

Credit: Reuters

Israeli Strikes Across Gaza Kill at Least 57, Palestinian Health Officials Say

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Gaza Strip, July 2024 – Intense clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas-led fighters erupted across various parts of the Gaza Strip on Tuesday. Palestinian health officials reported that at least 57 people were killed in Israeli bombardments targeting southern and central areas of Gaza.

Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic militant group, has accused Israel of intensifying its attacks in an effort to derail ongoing ceasefire talks mediated by Arab countries and the United States. Israel, however, maintains that its actions are aimed at rooting out Hamas fighters.

In Rafah, a southern border city where Israeli forces have been operating since May, five Palestinians were killed in an airstrike on a house, according to Gaza health officials. In nearby Khan Younis, a man, his wife, and two children were reportedly killed.

Later on Tuesday, an Israeli airstrike on a car resulted in the deaths of at least 17 Palestinians and injuries to 26 others in Khan Younis, located in southern Gaza, officials said. The airstrike targeted a tented area housing displaced families in Attar Street in the humanitarian-designated area of Al-Mawasi, as confirmed by the health ministry.

The Israeli military stated that the strike was aimed at a senior militant of the Islamic Jihad group, an ally of Hamas. “We are looking into the reports stating that several civilians were injured as a result of the strike,” the military statement read.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with rescuers carrying bodies of the dead and wounded on donkey carts and in rickshaws to nearby hospitals. “The car was hit, the blood was splashing, and shrapnel hit our tents and houses,” one witness said. “We screamed: ‘We need an ambulance.’ We put the injured in donkey carts and took them to the hospital. It took us a while,” they added.

The escalating violence has sparked urgent calls for international intervention to prevent further casualties and to revive the stalled ceasefire negotiations.

Shannen Doherty’s Final Chapter: Mother’s Tribute and Posthumous Divorce Settlement

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Shannen Doherty, the beloved star of “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Charmed,” passed away on July 13, 2024, at 53 after a long, courageous battle with breast cancer. As the entertainment world mourns her loss, two significant developments have emerged: her mother’s heartfelt tribute and the finalization of her posthumous divorce.

Rosa Doherty, Shannen’s mother, broke her silence on Monday in a statement to People magazine. “She is my beautiful girl and my heart,” Rosa expressed, encapsulating the profound bond between mother and daughter. She added, “Our family wants to thank everyone who has shown love and support for our Shannen throughout her life. We are truly appreciative.” This poignant statement offers a glimpse into the personal loss felt by Shannen’s family.

Doherty’s battle with cancer began in 2015, with the disease returning as stage 4 in 2020 and spreading to her bones by 2023. In her final months, Shannen made several heartbreaking decisions to ease the burden on her mother. On her podcast “Let’s Be Clear,” she revealed selling many of her possessions, stating, “My priority at the moment is my mom. I don’t want her to have a bunch of stuff to deal with.”

In a surprising turn of events, a judge signed off on Shannen’s divorce from Kurt Iswarienko on Monday, July 15, 2024, just days after her passing. The settlement details reveal a complex division of assets and rights. Shannen was awarded their marital home in Malibu, California, along with all art, furniture, and furnishings within. She received several automobiles, including a 1979 Ford Pickup Truck and two Range Rovers. A Salvador Dali painting was among the items granted to Shannen.

The actress was also granted rights to Kurt’s photography business, including half of the licensing fees from photos and videos taken during their marriage. Importantly, the settlement bars Kurt from “exploiting” Shannen’s image after her death. He must remove all photographs of Shannen from his professional websites and those of his representatives.

Financially, Kurt agreed to buy out Shannen’s interest in some assets, including paying her $100,000 for a Mooney M-20 Airplane and $10,000 for photography equipment. Kurt also waived his right to be appointed as a personal representative for Shannen’s estate or to claim any community property against her will.

The settlement outlined the sale of joint assets, including their Texas residence and a Camarillo Airport Hangar, with proceeds to be split between the parties.

Throughout her career and especially during her cancer battle, Shannen Doherty was known for her resilience and fighting spirit. In a November 2023 interview, she credited her strength to her mother: “I come from a woman who was determined. She impressed that upon me as a very young child like, ‘You don’t give up. You just have to work hard at it.'”

Shannen Doherty’s untimely death marks the end of an era for fans of ’90s television and serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing fight against cancer. Her final acts of consideration for her mother and the complexities of her posthumous divorce settlement underscore the multifaceted nature of celebrity lives, even in their twilight. As the entertainment world continues to mourn, Shannen Doherty’s legacy as a talented actress, determined fighter, and loving daughter will undoubtedly endure.

Nigerian Court Orders Forfeiture of 20 Cars Stolen from Canada

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Lagos, Nigeria, July 2024 – Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria has mandated the final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada to Nigeria. The cars are to be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria following a ruling on a motion filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, issued a statement on Tuesday detailing the vehicles involved. “The forfeited cars are Black color SUV 400, White 4MATIC Mercedez Benz; SUV MDX SH-AWD Acura; Grey color SUV RS 350L Lexus; Deep Blue SUV RX 350 Lexus; White Toyota 4Runner 2015; White 2020 model Lexus RX 350; White 2019 Lexus RX 350, Black 2020 Model Lexus RX350, and Black Honda Ridgeline 2017 Model.”

Additional cars listed in the order include: “White Lexus RX 350 SPORT 2019 Model; Grey Lexus RX 350 2019 Model; Grey Toyota 4Runner 2018 Model; White Lexus RX 350 FS Sport 2019 Model; White Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 2017 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2020 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2018 Model; Black Mercedez Benz G550 2019 Model; Red Lexus RX 350 2016 Model and White Mercedez Benz GLA 250 2018 Model.”

During the sitting on Monday, the EFCC, through its counsel R.A. Abdulrasheed, informed the court that the commission had complied with the stipulations of the court regarding the publication of the forfeiture notice. Abdulrasheed also mentioned that the application was supported by a 17-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Olufemi Oluikpin, an investigator with the EFCC, and other written evidences.

The motion for the final forfeiture order followed previous legal processes and was granted based on the compliance and evidence presented.

Actress Emma Roberts, 33, Announces Engagement to Cody John with Stunning Diamond Ring

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Actress Emma Roberts, known for her roles in “American Horror Story” and “Nancy Drew,” has taken to Instagram to announce her engagement to boyfriend Cody John. The 33-year-old star shared the exciting news with her followers on Tuesday, beating her mother to the punch in a playful post.

In the Instagram post, Roberts is seen with her arm around Cody, proudly displaying a large sparkling diamond ring on her left hand. The caption reads, “Putting this here before my mom tells everyone,” showcasing the actress’s sense of humor about the momentous occasion.

According to a representative from The Diamond Bank in Los Angeles, the engagement ring appears to be approximately five carats and is estimated to be worth around $100,000. The stunning piece of jewelry has already captured the attention of fans and media alike.

The couple first confirmed their relationship in August 2022 after being spotted kissing in New York City. They went Instagram official shortly after, with John posting a photo of them sharing a kiss on a yacht, captioned “sweet sweet.”

Since then, the pair have kept their relationship relatively private, though sources close to them have reported that Roberts has been “very content” with John. Their friends and family are said to be happy for the couple, believing they make a great match.

Roberts’ engagement to John comes after she previously expressed a desire to avoid dating actors. In a recent interview with Flaunt magazine, she admitted, “One day the veil was lifted and I didn’t want to date actors anymore. It’s hard, I think, for two actors to be together.”

The actress has had high-profile relationships with actors in the past, including Alex Pettyfer, Garrett Hedlund, and her “American Horror Story” co-star Evan Peters. She shares a three-year-old son, Rhodes, with ex-boyfriend Garrett Hedlund, whom she dated from 2019 to 2022.

While celebrating her personal happiness, Roberts continues to thrive professionally. She recently expressed excitement about co-producing a Netflix series with Kim Kardashian, showcasing her expanding role in the entertainment industry beyond acting.

As Emma Roberts embarks on this new chapter in her personal life, fans and well-wishers are eager to see what the future holds for the talented actress and her fiancé, Cody John. With her career continuing to flourish and a wedding on the horizon, it seems that 2024 is shaping up to be a memorable year for the Hollywood star.

Daily MailOnline

Nigerian Court Sentences Man to Death for Ritual Killing of Twin Boys

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In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria, a High Court in Asaba, Delta State, has sentenced a man to death for the brutal ritual killing of twin boys. The verdict, delivered on [insert date], marks a significant moment in the country’s ongoing battle against ritual-related crimes.

Onuwa Ijie, the primary defendant, received a death sentence for his role in the murder and conspiracy to commit the murder of 7-year-old twin boys, Chidalu and Chigozie Agwunobi. His co-defendant, Nwanozie Uzor, was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for his involvement in the heinous crime.

Justice Onome Marshal-Umukoro presided over the case, which saw the prosecution, led by Mrs. Paula Akpoguma, a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice, present five witnesses. The court determined that the testimony of these witnesses proved the case against the two defendants beyond reasonable doubt.

The tragic event unfolded on March 5, 2020, in the Oko-Ogbele Community. The seven-year-old twin boys were lured into a bush by the defendants, where they were subjected to unimaginable brutality. In a shocking act of violence, the perpetrators cut off the children’s penises, eyes, tongues, and hands. These body parts were then hurriedly transported to a native doctor in Aguleri, Anambra State, presumably for use in ritual practices.

The prosecution revealed a chilling detail: one of the defendants had previously attempted to abduct the twins from their school but was thwarted by a vigilant teacher, Mrs. Emelda Ezekwude.

In his judgment, Justice Marshal-Umukoro carefully evaluated the evidence presented. He concluded that the first defendant, Ijie, had instigated the crime by providing the second defendant with the contact information of one Chukwudi Edemuzor, who was allegedly seeking twins for ritual killings.

The court also emphasized the admissibility and reliability of testimony from the investigating police officer, stating that such evidence is not considered hearsay and can be relied upon in court proceedings.

This case has reignited discussions about the persistent issue of ritual killings in Nigeria. The severe sentences handed down by the court are seen as a strong message to would-be perpetrators and a reaffirmation of the justice system’s commitment to combating such crimes.

Speaking to journalists after the verdict, prosecutor Akpoguma expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it “reaffirms that the judicial system works.” The case has drawn widespread attention and condemnation, with many hoping it will serve as a deterrent to similar crimes in the future.

The sentencing of Onuwa Ijie and Nwanozie Uzor marks a significant moment in the legal history of Nigeria. As the country continues to grapple with the dark reality of ritual killings, this case serves as a stark reminder of the justice system’s role in protecting its most vulnerable citizens and punishing those who would harm them.

Lionel Messi to Miss Inter Miami’s Next Two Matches Due to Ankle Injury

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Argentina's Lionel Messi grimaces in pain during the Copa America final soccer match against Colombia in Miami Gardens, Fla., Sunday, July 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Miami, FL, July 2024 – Lionel Messi will be sidelined for Inter Miami’s upcoming two matches after suffering an ankle injury during the Copa América final. The injury was confirmed by head coach Tata Martino on Tuesday.

Injury Details and Impact

The 37-year-old Messi sustained the injury during Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. He was forced to leave the match in the 64th minute after going down with a twisted ankle. Martino mentioned that Messi will undergo further evaluation to assess the severity of the injury and determine if a longer recovery period is necessary.

“He twisted his ankle, and the injury is present, so tests are needed and we must wait for the results,” Martino stated. “I’ve had the opportunity to see other images. There will be tests done to determine the severity of the situation. We are always informed through our kinesiologist Walter Insaurralde, who is also the kinesiologist of the national team. He is very cautious at giving a final diagnosis before results are in.”

Immediate Consequences for Inter Miami

Fox’s cameras captured Messi’s noticeably swollen ankle as he watched the remainder of the match from the bench. Inter Miami is scheduled to play against Toronto FC on Wednesday and the Chicago Fire on Saturday at home before the MLS All-Star break. The team will then begin its Leagues Cup title defense against Mexican side Puebla on July 27.

Uncertainty Around MLS All-Star Game

It is currently unclear what role, if any, Messi will play in next week’s MLS All-Star Game in Columbus, Ohio. Messi was among the 30 players named to the team that will face off against a best-of LIGA MX team. His participation will depend on the results of his medical evaluation and subsequent recovery progress.