A Lake Wales man was shot and killed after he and at least three others confronted a man he went to high school with on the night, according to authorities.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Vincent Thomas, 21, drove to a home on Northside Drive in Lake Wales at around 7 p.m. on Tuesday with at least three other people.
Thomas got out of his car with a handgun and confronted a 20-year-old man outside of the home, allegedly threatening to shoot him. According to PCSO, Thomas and the man went to Lake Wales High together, knew each other, and had a disagreement with each other.
According to officials, during the argument, the resident confronted by Thomas got a rifle and shot at Thomas several times, striking him at least twice. The shooter remained on the scene and is cooperating with detectives.
Thomas’ friends drove him to Advent Health Lake Wales Hospital where he died from his injuries. Two of those friends were arrested and charged with tampering with evidence and providing false information to law enforcement during a felony investigation.
According to PCSO, Thomas has prior arrests for battery on law enforcement, threats against a LEO, failure to appear, resisting arrest, and driving while license suspended or revoked. He was on felony probation at the time of the shooting.
Oregon amusement park guests were left hanging upside down when a ride malfunctioned . Portland Fire and Rescue announced that they were called to the scene of Oaks Park after the “AtmosFEAR” ride, a spinning pendulum-style ride, malfunctioned on the evening. The ride malfunction came on the park’s first day of opening for the summer. Officials said that approximately 30 people were stuck upside-down until help arrived. Park engineers, alongside fire officials, worked together to “manually lower” the topsy-turvy ride, the department said. A spokesperson for the Fire Bureau said the riders were being evacuated and medically evaluated. “The ride has been manually lowered, and all riders are now being evacuated and medically evaluated,” officials said. Fire officials said earlier they did not believe anyone was seriously injured. The cause of the malfunction is unknown at this time. Oaks Park officials did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment. Oak’s Park is Oregon’s oldest existing amusement park and is just 3.5 miles from downtown Portland. The small park first opened two days before the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition on May 30, 1905, and is one of the country’s oldest continually operating amusement parks in the country.
A “mysterious monolith” has appeared in a desert north of Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department says the shiny, reflective structure – similar to one found in Utah years ago – was spotted by its search and rescue unit near Gass Peak over the weekend.
“We see a lot of weird things when people go hiking like not being prepared for the weather, not bringing enough water… but check this out!” police wrote on X alongside an image of the monolith.
The discovery comes months after a hiker in Wales captured a video of a mysterious “UFO”-like monolith on top of a hillside along the country’s border with England.
Craig Muir recorded footage showing the shiny object in March while hiking Hay Bluff near Hay-on-Wye, according to Storyful.
“I come up here most days and I’ve never seen this before,” Muir says in the video, adding that it “almost looks like a UFO.”
Similar monoliths also have been found in Belgium, Romania and the Isle of Wight – an island in the English Channel.
In November 2020, one of the monoliths, estimated at between 10 feet and 12 feet high, was found by Utah state wildlife employees who were counting sheep from a helicopter.
Bret Hutchings, the helicopter pilot, said it was “about the strangest thing that I’ve come across out there in all my years of flying,” according to Salt Lake City’s KSL-TV.
Authorities said at the time that the mysterious object was installed in the ground in a remote area with “no obvious indication” of who might have put it there, according to a press release from the Utah Department of Public Safety.
Then a week later, another monolith was discovered in Atascadero, California, which is north of Los Angeles.
It’s unclear who is behind the placement of the monoliths. A New Mexico artist collective claimed responsibility years ago.
“Deadliest Catch” star Nick Mavar has died. The former deckhand was 59.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Police Chief Elbie of the Bristol Bay Borough Police Department in Alaska said they have “confirmed the passing of Nick Mavar Jr. On June 13th 2024.”
The statement continued, “The Bristol Bay police department received a call for a medical emergency at a boatyard in Naknek. Medics responded and transported Nick Mavar Jr. to Camai medical center where they attempted life-saving measures.”
“Mr. Mavar was later pronounced deceased and next of kin has been notified,” the statement continued. The Bristol Bay Borough Police Department noted that they are still waiting to speak to witnesses that were present.
There aren’t any details available at this time about the nature of the medical emergency Mavar suffered from in Alaska.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis caught a break this week after a Georgia judge decided that a court order pausing litigation in the electioneering case against former President Trump would not prevent him from letting some parts of the case move forward.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee said he plans to continue working on some pretrial motions while the Georgia Court of Appeals reviews his decision on the motion to disqualify Wills, Fox 5 reported.
The appeals court on Oct. 4 will hear Trump and several co-defendants’ appeal to have Willis disqualified over her “improper” affair with Special Counsel Nathan Wade. The appeals court paused all pending litigation in their case in the meantime — a setback for Willis, who had hoped to try Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee, before the election in November.
However, McAfee’s decision to continue pretrial motions for the defendants not involved in the appeal is a win for Willis, who has been embroiled in scandal, leading to two separate Georgia legislature investigations into misuse of federal funds and probes by federal lawmakers over the same issue.
Those six defendants are John Eastman, Ray Smith III, Shawn Still, Stephen Lee, Trevian Kutti and Misty Hampton.
McAfee noted Tuesday that Hampton had filed a motion seeking a discretionary stay of proceedings, arguing that the eventual appellate ruling might disqualify the district attorney, Fox 5 reported.
In his ruling, McAfee points out that even if Willis is disqualified, the indictment with several statutory and constitutional challenges must still be resolved, and he does not believe that a complete stay is the most efficient course — leading him to deny Hampton’s motion, the outlet reported.
Trump and his co-defendants were indicted in August after a nearly three-year investigation on charges of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia. The indictment included 13 charges against Trump, as well as charges against 18 of his allies. Four defendants charged have already accepted plea deals. Six of the original charges have been dismissed, including three against Trump.
In February, Michael Roman, a GOP operative and co-defendant in the case, dropped bombshell accusations that Willis had an “improper” affair with Wade, whom she hired to help prosecute the case in November 2021.
Other co-defendants made similar allegations that she had financially benefited from her relationship with him by taking lavish vacations together.
Both Wade and Willis denied they were in a romantic relationship prior to his hiring and said they would split the costs of their shared travels. Willis said she reimbursed Wade for her share of the trips in cash.
After evidentiary hearings held in February, Judge McAfee ordered that Wade had to be removed in order to keep Willis from disqualification in the Trump election interference case in Georgia. Wade later resigned from the case.
When the defense in March submitted a joint motion for a Certificate of Immediate Review, McAfee said that his Order on the Defendants’ Motions to Dismiss and Disqualify the Fulton County District Attorney issued March 15 “is of such importance to the case that immediate review should be had” and allowed the defendants to ask the Georgia appeals court for an opportunity to appeal, which the court granted last month.
Veronica Garcia, a transgender high school runner in Washington, competed in the girls 400-meter dash Saturday.
Garcia won the event and became the Washington girls 400-meter dash state champion.
Garcia ran the race in 55.75 seconds, which was one second better than the second-place finisher’s time of 56.75, according to the Pacific Northwest Track and Field Officials’ track scoreboard.
The second- and third-place winners in the race appeared to participate in the post-race podium ceremony.
According to Washington Interscholastic Activities Association policy, every athlete will compete in programs “consistent with their gender identity or the gender most consistently expressed.
Medical or legal requirements were not listed. However, if questions about eligibility arise, a student does have the right to appeal, according to WIAA’s policy. Legislation for transgender girls participating in girls and women’s sports has been introduced in the state but has not passed.
In 2021, the British Journal of Sports Medicine published a study saying transgender women maintain an advantage over biological women even after a year of hormone therapy treatment.
“For the Olympic level, the elite level, I’d say probably two years is more realistic than one year,” Dr. Timothy Roberts, director of the adolescent medicine training program at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, told NBC News at the time. “At one year, the trans women, on average, still have an advantage over the cis women.
Earlier this month, five middle school girls in West Virginia were barred from competing in a track and field event after protesting and refusing to participate in an event due to a transgender athlete’s inclusion in the meet.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is appealing a judge’s decision to dismiss some of the charges against former President Donald Trump and others in the Georgia election interference case.
Willis filed a notice of appeal regarding the dismissal of six of the counts back in March.
Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee had written in an order that six of the counts in the indictment must be quashed, including three against Trump. But the order leaves intact other charges, and the judge wrote that prosecutors could seek a new indictment on the charges he dismissed, according to The Associated Press.
One of the dismissed counts regarded the phone call Trump made to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Jan. 2, 2021. Trump had allegedly told the secretary to “find 11,780 votes,” the Washington Examiner said.
Willis’ action came after the appeals court already agreed to take up Trump and his co-defendants’ appeal over their efforts to disqualify Willis from the case, ABC News reported.
Trump and 18 others pleaded not guilty last August to all charges in an indictment for alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia, the news outlet reported. Four of the defendants have accepted plea deals in exchange for agreeing to testify against other defendants.
One day after video was released that appeared to show Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs beating his then-girlfriend Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel, the music mogul took responsibility, saying he’s “disgusted” with himself.
“It’s so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life. Sometimes you got to do that. I was f—ed up. I mean I hit rock bottom. But I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable,” he said in a self-recorded message beneath a rattan roof posted to Instagram.
“I take full responsibility for my actions in that video. I’m disgusted. I was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now,” he added.
One day after video was released that appeared to show Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs beating his then-girlfriend Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel, the music mogul took responsibility, saying he’s “disgusted” with himself.
“It’s so difficult to reflect on the darkest times in your life. Sometimes you got to do that. I was f—ed up. I mean I hit rock bottom. But I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable,” he said in a self-recorded message beneath a rattan roof posted to Instagram.
“I take full responsibility for my actions in that video. I’m disgusted. I was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now,” he added.
“Had to ask God for his mercy and grace.”
“I’m so sorry. But I’m committed to [being] a better man each and every day. I’m not asking for forgiveness. I’m truly sorry.
Combs did not reference Cassie, whose legal name is Cassandra Ventura, in his apology.
The alarming video, obtained exclusively by CNN, shows the rapper running down a hallway only wearing a towel around his waist and socks. When he reaches the elevators, he can be seen throwing a woman, presumably Ventura, to the ground. He kicks her twice before dragging her out of the camera’s view.
The incident seems to directly corroborate an incident described in depth in Ventura’s lawsuit that she filed against Combs in November 2023 where she accused him of physical and sexual abuse. The lawsuit was dropped the following day, and an undisclosed settlement was reached.
At the time of the filing, Combs’ lawyer issued a statement saying in part, “Mr. Combs vehemently denies these offensive and outrageous allegations. Ms. Ventura’s demand of $30 million, under the threat of writing a damaging book about their relationship, was unequivocally rejected as blatant blackmail. Despite withdrawing her initial threat, Ms. Ventura has now resorted to filing a lawsuit riddled with baseless and outrageous lies, aiming to tarnish Mr. Combs’ reputation, and seeking a pay day.”
Following the settlement, Combs said, “We have decided to resolve this matter amicably. I wish Cassie and her family all the best. Love.”
Following the video’s release, Ventura’s lawyer, Douglas Wigdor, told Fox News Digital, “The gut-wrenching video has only further confirmed the disturbing and predatory behavior of Mr. Combs. Words cannot express the courage and fortitude that Ms. Ventura has shown in coming forward to bring this to light
The LA District Attorney’s office issued a statement on Saturday confirming that Combs cannot be prosecuted based on these allegations due to the statute of limitations.
Mother’s Day is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the incredible women in our lives who have nurtured, loved, and guided us through every step of our journey. Finding the perfect gift to express appreciation for all they do can sometimes be challenging. However, with a bit of thoughtfulness and creativity, you can find a gift that truly speaks to your mother’s heart. Here are some of the best ideas for Mother’s Day gifts to make her day extra special
1. Personalized Gifts:
Personalized jewelry: A necklace, bracelet, or ring engraved with her initials, birthstone, or a meaningful date.
Customized photo album: Compile cherished memories in a beautifully designed album.
Customized wall art: Have a piece of art created with family names, significant dates, or a heartfelt message.
2. Spa and Relaxation Gifts
Spa gift basket: Fill a basket with luxurious bath salts, lotions, candles, and a plush robe.
Massage or spa day: Treat her to a relaxing massage or a day at the spa for pampering.
Aromatherapy diffuser: Gift her a diffuser with essential oils to create a calming atmosphere at home.
3. Experiential Gifts
Cooking or art class: Enroll her in a class she’s always wanted to try, whether it’s cooking, painting, pottery, or photography.
Wine tasting tour: Plan a day out at a local winery for a tasting experience she’ll remember.
Tickets to a show or concert: Surprise her with tickets to see her favorite band, a play, or a musical.
4. Subscription Services
Monthly flower delivery: Sign her up for a subscription service that delivers fresh flowers to her doorstep every month.
Book club subscription: If she loves to read, gift her a subscription to a book club tailored to her preferences.
Gourmet food or wine club: Treat her to a monthly delivery of gourmet foods, chocolates, or fine wines.
5. Tech Gadgets
E-reader: For the book-loving mom, an e-reader allows her to carry her favorite books everywhere.
Smartwatch or fitness tracker: Help her stay connected and track her health and fitness goals.
Digital photo frame: Load it with family photos so she can enjoy them rotating throughout the day.
6. DIY Gifts
Handmade crafts: Get creative with DIY projects like hand-painted pottery, knitted scarves, or homemade candles.
Recipe book: Compile her favorite family recipes into a personalized cookbook.
Memory jar: Fill a jar with handwritten notes of cherished memories and reasons why she’s loved.
7. Outdoor and Gardening Gifts
Gardening kit: Equip her with tools, seeds, and gardening accessories for her green thumb.
Hammock or outdoor lounge chair: Provide her with a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Bird feeder or birdhouse: Bring a touch of nature to her backyard with a bird feeder or charming birdhouse.
8. Wellness and Fitness Gifts
Yoga mat and accessories: Encourage her wellness journey with a quality yoga mat, blocks, and straps.
Fitness tracker: Help her stay motivated and track her workouts with a fitness tracker.
Healthy cooking appliances: Upgrade her kitchen with appliances like an air fryer, juicer, or blender for nutritious meals.
9. Sentimental Gifts
Handwritten letter or poem: Express your love and gratitude in a heartfelt letter or poem.
Memory book: Create a scrapbook filled with photos, ticket stubs, and mementos of special moments shared together.
Family tree artwork: Commission a personalized family tree illustration showcasing her heritage and loved ones.
10. Time Together
Plan a special outing: Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a hike in the mountains, or a day at the beach, spend quality time together.
Cook a meal together: Share laughs and stories while cooking her favorite meal together at home.
