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Jury Selected for Alec Baldwin’s Involuntary Manslaughter Trial, Opening Statements Set to Begin

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In the high-profile case against Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin, a jury of 16 individuals has been selected to hear the involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from the tragic 2021 “Rust” movie set shooting. The jury, comprising five men and eleven women, was seated Tuesday in Santa Fe, New Mexico, setting the stage for opening statements to commence on Wednesday.

The selection process, which took place under the watchful eye of Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, saw a pool of 70 potential jurors narrowed down to the final 16. Of these, 12 will serve as the primary jury, with four designated as alternates. The court will only reveal which jurors are alternates after the conclusion of the case, ensuring all 16 remain fully engaged throughout the proceedings.

Baldwin, 66, faces up to 18 months in prison if unanimously found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The charges relate to an incident during a rehearsal for the Western film “Rust” at Bonanza Creek Ranch, where a revolver Baldwin was holding discharged, fatally wounding Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

The jury selection process revealed the widespread awareness of the case, with all but two potential jurors indicating familiarity with the incident. Despite this, the attorneys were able to seat a jury in a single day as planned, following a brief delay due to technical issues.

Throughout the selection, Baldwin, dressed in a gray suit and accompanied by his legal team, remained attentive. His wife, Hilaria Baldwin, and brother, actor Stephen Baldwin, were present in the courtroom, underscoring the personal stakes of the trial.

Prosecutor Kari Morrissey and defense attorney Alex Spiro probed potential jurors on various topics, including their views on firearms, ability to question law enforcement testimony, and personal connections to potential witnesses. Notably, several jurors acknowledged knowing Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, who is on the prosecution’s witness list.

The trial’s location in Santa Fe adds an unusual dimension to the proceedings, as jurors find themselves at the center of a major Hollywood legal case in a state that has increasingly become a hub for film production. This dynamic highlights the growing intersection of the entertainment industry with local communities across the United States.

As the trial begins, it will revisit the tragic events of October 2021. Baldwin has maintained that the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it toward Hutchins, unaware that it contained a live round. His claim that he pulled back the hammer, not the trigger, will likely be a key point of contention during the trial.

The case has reignited discussions about film set safety protocols and the responsibilities of actors and crew members in handling firearms on set. It also shines a spotlight on Halyna Hutchins, a rising star in cinematography whose promising career was cut tragically short.

As opening statements are set to begin, all eyes will be on the Santa Fe courtroom, where this jury will grapple with complex questions of responsibility, safety, and the nature of accidents in high-pressure film production environments. The outcome of this trial could have far-reaching implications for safety practices in the film industry and the legal responsibilities of actors in similar situations.

TND

Spain’s Euro 2024 Final Hopes in Jeopardy as Captain Alvaro Morata Injured in Post-Match Pitch Invasion

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Following Spain’s triumphant 2-1 victory over France in the Euro 2024 semi-final, the celebration was overshadowed by a pitch invasion that resulted in a potentially serious injury to team captain Alvaro Morata. The incident has cast a shadow over Spain’s preparations for the championship game and highlighted ongoing concerns about pitch security at major football events.

The chaotic scene unfolded moments after the final whistle, as Spain’s players were reveling in their hard-fought win. Amidst the jubilation, a spectator breached security and ran onto the field, prompting a swift response from stadium security personnel. In their haste to apprehend the intruder, one security guard lost their footing and collided with Morata, causing the Spanish striker to crumple in visible pain.

Footage from the stadium captured the alarming moment, showing Morata attempting to walk off the injury but clearly struggling. The incident has raised serious questions about UEFA’s ability to maintain pitch security and protect players during high-profile matches.

Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, addressed the media’s concerns about Morata’s condition in the post-match press conference. While attempting to downplay the severity of the injury, de la Fuente admitted uncertainty about Morata’s availability for Sunday’s final. “We believe it’s nothing,” he stated cautiously. “It hurts, but we think it’s nothing. We’ll have to wait and see tomorrow.”

The potential loss of Morata for the final would be a significant blow to Spain’s chances. The striker has been instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, providing crucial goals and leadership throughout the tournament. His absence could force de la Fuente to make last-minute tactical adjustments ahead of the championship match against either England or the Netherlands.

Despite the injury scare, Morata himself appeared to be in good spirits following the incident. He took to Instagram to celebrate Spain’s advancement to the finals, sharing his excitement with fans and teammates. However, his optimism does little to allay concerns about his fitness for the upcoming match.

This incident has reignited debates about pitch security at major football events. Critics argue that UEFA needs to implement stricter measures to prevent pitch invasions and ensure player safety. The potential for serious injury or worse has long been a concern, and this latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by inadequate security protocols.

As Spain anxiously awaits updates on Morata’s condition, the football world is left to ponder the broader implications of this event. The incident underscores the delicate balance between fan excitement and player safety, a challenge that UEFA and other governing bodies must address to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

With the Euro 2024 final just days away, all eyes will be on Spain’s medical team as they work to get Morata match-fit. The outcome of their efforts could have a significant impact on the tournament’s conclusion and potentially shape discussions about pitch security for years to come.

Megachurch Founder Robert Morris Accused of Child Sexual Abuse: 2007 Letters Reveal Disturbing Victim-Blaming Tactics

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The evangelical community has been shaken by the revelation of letters from 2007 detailing how lawyers representing megachurch pastor Robert Morris attempted to blame a 12-year-old girl for initiating “inappropriate sexual behavior” with the then 21-year-old Morris. This disturbing development adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing scandal surrounding the founder of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, one of America’s largest and most influential evangelical institutions.

Pastor Robert Morris

The correspondence, obtained by NBC News, was exchanged between J. Shelby Sharpe, representing Morris, and Gentner Drummond, who was at the time representing Cindy Clemishire, the alleged victim. These documents provide a troubling insight into the approach taken by Morris and his legal team when confronted with accusations of child sexual abuse dating back to 1982.

In a particularly alarming passage, Sharpe’s letter stated, “It was your client who initiated inappropriate behavior by coming into my client’s bedroom and getting in bed with him, which my client should not have allowed to happen.” This statement attempts to shift blame onto Clemishire, who was only 12 years old at the time of the alleged abuse, a tactic that has drawn widespread criticism and concern.

Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, one of America’s largest and most influential evangelical institutions

The letters also reveal that Clemishire was seeking $50,000 in restitution to cover counseling costs. Morris, through his lawyer, offered $25,000 but demanded a non-disclosure agreement, which Clemishire refused. This negotiation process sheds light on the complex and often contentious nature of addressing historical abuse cases within religious institutions.

Clemishire alleges that Morris molested her more than 100 times over 4½ years, including “kissing and touching and inserting fingers into my body.” Morris has acknowledged “kissing and petting” but disputes the frequency of incidents. The abuse allegedly began on Christmas in 1982 when Morris was staying at Clemishire’s family home in Oklahoma.

The case has broader implications for the evangelical community, raising questions about leadership accountability, institutional responses to abuse allegations, and the long-term impact on victims. Clemishire’s decades-long struggle with “profound confusion” and misplaced guilt underscores the lasting trauma of childhood sexual abuse.

Pastor Morris and his lovely family while living at the home of the victim

Gateway Church’s handling of the situation has also come under scrutiny. Church leaders claim they were unaware of the full details until recently. In response, the church has hired an outside law firm to investigate, and four church officials, including Morris’ son, have taken leaves of absence from the board of elders.

The contrast between Morris’ public teachings on sexual purity and honesty and his hidden past reveals the complex and sometimes hypocritical nature of evangelical leadership. His sermons, which often touched on themes of confession and restoration without fully disclosing the nature of his past actions, now take on a troubling new context in light of these revelations.

As this story continues to unfold, it is likely to spark further discussions about power dynamics in religious institutions, the handling of abuse allegations, and the need for greater transparency and accountability in evangelical circles. The case of Robert Morris and Gateway Church may serve as a catalyst for reform in how megachurches and other religious organizations address and prevent sexual abuse within their ranks.

The evangelical community now faces the challenge of reconciling the influential legacy of Robert Morris with these serious allegations. As more details emerge, the response from both the church and its congregation will be closely watched, potentially setting precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future within the broader context of American evangelicalism.

nbcnews.com

Black Man Died Pinned to the Ground, Family Wants Answers

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The death of Dvontaye Mitchell, a 43-year-old Black man, following an encounter with security guards at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Milwaukee has left his family demanding answers and justice. The incident, which occurred on June 30, has reignited discussions about the use of force against people of color and the handling of mental health crises.

According to a statement from family attorney Ben Crump, Mitchell allegedly “caused a disturbance” at the hotel, prompting security guards to intervene. A video circulating on social media shows four guards pinning Mitchell to the ground, with Mitchell audibly pleading and apologizing. The encounter ended tragically, with Mitchell unresponsive when police arrived despite lifesaving measures.

Key developments in the case include:

1. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office has preliminarily classified Mitchell’s death as a homicide, pending further investigation and toxicology reports.

2. The security guards involved have been suspended, and Aimbridge Hospitality, which operates the hotel, is conducting an investigation.

3. Milwaukee Police are not currently treating the incident as a criminal investigation, citing a lack of evidence of “blunt force.”

4. The Milwaukee County District Attorney’s office states the case is pending further investigation, with no timeline for a charging decision.

Mitchell’s family, including his widow DeAsia Harmon and mother Brenda Giles, describe him as a loving father and family man who had struggled with depression since his father’s death in 2016. They believe he may have been experiencing a mental health episode during the incident.

The case has drawn comparisons to other instances of excessive force against people of color, particularly in the context of mental health crises. Attorney Ben Crump has criticized the decision not to pursue a criminal investigation, stating, “It is unacceptable that this case is not being considered a criminal investigation despite the fatal outcome, which the medical examiner considers a homicide.”

As the investigation continues, Mitchell’s family and community supporters are calling for transparency, accountability, and a thorough examination of the use of force protocols in such situations. The incident has also sparked broader discussions about the need for improved mental health response training for security personnel and law enforcement.

The Hyatt Regency has expressed condolences to Mitchell’s family and stated their commitment to supporting efforts to ensure accountability. As more details emerge, this case is likely to remain a focal point in ongoing national conversations about racial justice, use of force, and mental health crisis response.

CNN

16-Year-Old Lamine Yamal Spectacular Goal in Spain’s Euro 2024 Semi-Final Against France Makes History

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In the thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final match between Spain and France, 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal stole the spotlight with a breathtaking equalizer that left spectators in awe. The young prodigy’s spectacular strike not only leveled the score but also etched his name in the tournament’s history books.

With Spain trailing 1-0 after an early goal from France’s Randal Kolo Muani, the match seemed to be following a predictable script. However, in the 21st minute, Yamal changed the narrative with a moment of pure brilliance. Receiving the ball 25 yards from goal, the teenager unleashed a powerful curling shot that soared into the top corner, clipping the post on its way in.

The goal was more than just an equalizer; it was a statement of intent from one of football’s brightest young talents. At just 16 years old, Yamal became the youngest player ever to score in a major international tournament, breaking yet another record in his fledgling career.

The Spanish bench erupted in celebration, while even some French fans stood in admiration of the youngster’s skill. Former England captain Alan Shearer, commentating for BBC, described the goal as “outrageous,” adding, “It’s that late he shouldn’t even be up at night, never mind playing in the semi-finals of a European Championship!

Yamal’s goal proved to be a turning point in the match. Just four minutes later, Spain took the lead through Dani Olmo, completely reversing the game’s momentum. The Spanish team, buoyed by Yamal’s moment of magic, went on to dominate large portions of the game.

As the match progressed, Yamal continued to cause problems for the French defense with his pace and skill. His performance was a testament to the faith shown in him by Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente, who has integrated the Barcelona youngster into the national team setup despite his tender age.

The goal and overall performance from Yamal have reignited discussions about the emergence of young talent in international football. His ability to perform on such a grand stage at his age has drawn comparisons to past prodigies who made their mark in major tournaments.

As the semi-final headed towards its conclusion, with Spain leading 2-1 at halftime, all eyes remained on Yamal. His goal had not only changed the course of the match but potentially the entire tournament, as Spain sought to reach their first European Championship final since 2012.

Regardless of the final outcome, Lamine Yamal’s spectacular goal will be remembered as one of the defining moments of Euro 2024. It served as a reminder of the joy and unpredictability that young talent can bring to the beautiful game, and signaled the arrival of a new star on the international stage.

Europe’s Most Powerful New Ariane 6 Rocket Lifts Off in Debut Flight

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The European Space Agency’s member countries have endured a space access predicament as they waited to have a functioning rocket in their toolbox.

But a new rocket, dubbed Ariane 6, just launched on its maiden mission after years of delays and hang-ups in the development process.

If successful, the space agency hopes that the Ariane 6 rocket system may go on to make the space agency more self-reliant and perhaps challenge SpaceX’s dominance in the global market for launching satellites.

The rocket appeared to take off without issue from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana, which lies along South America’s northern tip, after 3 p.m. ET. The European Space Agency’s live coverage kicked off at 2:30 p.m. ET.

That time frame marks a slight delay from an earlier launch window projection before equipment on the ground had revealed the rocket had “a small issue in the data acquisition,” which was resolved by Tuesday morning, according to a social media post from ESA. The detection prompted the mission teams to push back the Ariane 6’s launch window by one hour.

**SpaceX transformed the commercial launch market**

France-based launch service provider Arianespace is the operator of Ariane 6. The aerospace firm was founded in 1980 and is billed as the “the world’s first commercial space transportation company.” Arianespace is part of ArianeGroup, a joint venture between Airbus and Safran that developed and built the powerful rocket.

But the European launch industry has struggled in recent years. The Ariane 6’s predecessor, Ariane 5, flew its final voyage in July 2023, ending the rocket’s 27-year run. Europe’s Vega-C rocket, designed for vaulting small satellites to orbit, has also been grounded since a December 2022 failure.

The commercial launch market, for the record, is far different than it was even two decades ago—mostly due to Elon Musk’s California-based company SpaceX and its relatively affordable Falcon rockets.

The ESA is aiming to bounce back, and—even if it’s unable to compete directly with SpaceX—capture more of the European market.

Spain Stuns France 2-1 in Euro 2024 Semi-Final: Lamine Yamal’s Wonder Goal Sparks Comeback Victory

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In a thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final, Spain came from behind to defeat France 2-1, securing their place in the European Championship final for the first time in 12 years. The match, held in Munich, was marked by moments of brilliance, particularly from 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.

France took an early lead through Randal Kolo Muani in the 9th minute, but Spain’s response was swift and spectacular. In the 21st minute, Lamine Yamal etched his name in tournament history with a breathtaking equalizer. The teenager unleashed a curling shot from 25 yards out that nestled in the top corner, leaving spectators and commentators in awe.

Alan Shearer, former England captain, described Yamal’s goal as “outrageous,” adding, “It’s that late he shouldn’t even be up at night, never mind playing in the semi-finals of a European Championship!

Spain’s comeback was completed just four minutes later when Dani Olmo scored their second, his shot taking a deflection off Jules Kounde. This quick turnaround stunned the French team, known for their defensive prowess throughout the tournament.

The second half saw France pushing for an equalizer, with Kylian Mbappe missing a crucial chance in the 84th minute. Spain’s defense held firm, with goalkeeper Unai Simon making key saves to preserve their lead.

Luis de la Fuente’s tactical decisions, including the introduction of Ferran Torres for the impressive Yamal late in the game, helped Spain manage the closing stages effectively. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations from the Spanish players and fans, while the French team was left to reflect on a tournament that ended in disappointment.

This victory not only showcases Spain’s resurgence under de la Fuente but also highlights the emergence of young talents like Yamal on the international stage. As Spain prepares for the final, they will be buoyed by their performance against a strong French side and the knowledge that they have overcome a significant hurdle in their quest for European glory.

The Euro 2024 final now awaits, with Spain looking to add to their impressive international trophy haul and cement their status as one of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.

South African Rand Dips Following Federal Reserve Chair Powell’s Ambiguous Comments on Interest Rates

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The South African rand saw a marginal decrease on Tuesday following Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony in Washington, which failed to provide a definitive stance on potential near-term interest rate cuts by the U.S. central bank. This development underscores the interconnectedness of global financial markets and the impact of U.S. monetary policy on emerging market currencies.

As of 1512 GMT, the rand was trading at 18.1350 against the dollar, representing a 0.1% decline from its previous close. Investors and analysts closely monitored Powell’s comments for insights into the future trajectory of interest rates in the world’s largest economy.

In his testimony, Powell acknowledged that U.S. inflation “remains above” the Fed’s 2% target. However, he noted recent improvements in inflation data, suggesting that “more good data would strengthen” the case for potential interest rate cuts by the central bank. This measured stance left room for interpretation, contributing to the rand’s slight weakening.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, registered a 0.19% increase following Powell’s remarks. This uptick in dollar strength further contributed to the pressure on the South African rand.

The rand, known for its sensitivity to global risk factors, often responds to international economic indicators and policy decisions, particularly those from the United States, in the absence of significant local drivers. This relationship highlights the vulnerability of emerging market currencies to shifts in global sentiment and major economic policy decisions.

The impact of Powell’s comments extended beyond the currency market. On the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the Top-40 index closed down 0.2%, reflecting a broader market reaction to the global economic outlook.

In the bond market, South Africa’s benchmark 2030 government bond also weakened, with the yield rising by 5.5 basis points to 9.805%. This movement in bond yields indicates increased caution among investors regarding South African government debt.

As global markets continue to digest Powell’s comments and anticipate future economic data, the South African rand and other emerging market currencies are likely to remain sensitive to developments in U.S. monetary policy. Investors and policymakers in South Africa will be closely monitoring these global trends and their potential impact on the local economy and financial markets.

This situation underscores the challenges faced by emerging market economies in navigating the complex interplay between domestic economic conditions and global financial trends, particularly as major central banks consider shifts in their monetary policy stances.

Reuters

Dozens of Gazans Killed in Latest Israeli Assault as Hamas Warns of Truce Breakdown

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Palestinians stand in the ruins of the Chahine family home, after an overnight Israeli strike that killed at least two adults and five boys and girls under the age of 16 in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, Friday, May 3, 2024. An Israeli strike on the city of Rafah on the southern edge of the Gaza Strip killed several people, including children, hospital officials said Friday. (AP Photo/Ismael Abu Dayyah)

Palestinian officials reported that an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip killed dozens, while advancing tanks in Gaza City forced residents to flee under fire as Israel on Tuesday stepped up its offensive, warning that Hamas’ actions could jeopardize ceasefire talks.

The airstrike hit the tents of displaced families outside a school in the town of Abassan east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, killing at least 29 people, most of whom were women and children, according to Palestinian medical officials.

The Israeli military stated it was investigating the report.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, director of the Hamas-run Gaza government media office, said Israeli strikes on central Gaza areas killed 60 Palestinians and wounded dozens more on Tuesday.

Residents said Israeli tanks that pushed into the Tel Al-Hawa, Shejaia, and Sabra neighborhoods of Gaza City shelled roads and buildings, forcing them to flee their homes. This was followed by Israeli military orders to evacuate several districts in eastern and western Gaza City, which were posted on social media.

“We hold the occupation and the U.S. administration responsible for the horrifying massacres against civilians,” said Thawabta in a statement.

In Gaza City’s frontline areas, armed wings of Hamas and its ally Islamic Jihad engaged in battles with Israeli forces using machine guns, mortar fire, and anti-tank missiles, killing and wounding Israeli soldiers.

Israel has not released a report on casualties but said its soldiers were engaged in fierce combat with militants, having taken more than 150 fighters out of action. Israeli troops also destroyed booby-trapped buildings and explosives.

The conflict has escalated as senior U.S. officials were in the region to push for a truce after reaching ceasefire concessions last week. However, Israel’s renewed military offensive and Hamas’ rocket fire have brought negotiations “back to square one,” according to adviser Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas.

Melania Trump Dazzles in Red Valentino Dress as She Hosts Successful Fundraiser in NYC

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In a rare public appearance, former First Lady Melania Trump dazzled attendees at a high-profile fundraiser in New York City, raising an impressive $1.4 million for the Log Cabin Republicans, the largest conservative LGBTQ+ organization in the United States. The event, held at the Trumps’ private penthouse in Trump Tower, marked a significant moment in the 2024 presidential campaign landscape.

Melania stunned in a $4,000 red Valentino sheath dress, paired with Christian Louboutin’s So Kate red patent leather pumps, as captured in exclusive photos by Dailymail.com. The choice of attire was a rewear from a 2017 event where she hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping at Mar-a-Lago, symbolizing both style and diplomatic savvy.

The fundraiser attracted a notable guest list, including former Trump White House official Kellyanne Conway, former Senator Kelly Loeffler, and former acting director of U.S. National Intelligence Richard Grenell. Grenell later announced the fundraising total on social media, highlighting the event’s success and the campaign’s goal to secure 50% of the gay vote for Donald Trump.

This event stands in stark contrast to Donald Trump’s recent low profile following the first presidential debate with Joe Biden. While the former president has maintained a presence through social media and a call-in to Fox News’ Sean Hannity, he has largely stayed out of the public eye, with advisers suggesting he’s observing the unfolding Democratic party dynamics.

Melania’s increasing involvement in political fundraising, particularly for LGBTQ+ conservative causes, marks a shift in her public role. This was her second event for the Log Cabin Republicans this year, following a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago in April where she advocated for “equality for all.”

However, Melania’s political appearances remain selective. She has yet to attend a campaign event for her husband this year, a notable difference from First Lady Jill Biden’s active involvement in President Biden’s re-election efforts. When asked about her future campaign involvement, Melania cryptically told reporters to “stay tuned,” leaving her role in the 2024 campaign uncertain.

The success of this fundraiser and Melania’s stylish appearance have reignited discussions about her potential influence in the upcoming election. As the Trump campaign continues to evolve, political observers will be watching closely to see if this event signals a more active role for the former First Lady in the months ahead.

This fundraiser not only showcased Melania Trump’s enduring appeal but also highlighted the complex dynamics within the Republican party as it seeks to broaden its base, particularly among LGBTQ+ voters. As the 2024 presidential race intensifies, events like these may play a crucial role in shaping campaign strategies and voter perceptions.

Daily MailOnline

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