Who is Nicholas Jordan? Suspected Colorado dorm killer ‘knew victims

A Detroit man allegedly gunned down two people in a dorm at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.

Nicholas Jordan, a 25-year-old student enrolled at the university, was arrested on a murder warrant for the deaths of fellow student Samuel Knopp, 24, and Celie Montgomery, a 26-year-old mom of two who wasn’t a student.

What sparked the fatal encounter remains a mystery, but Colorado Springs police said, “This was an isolated incident between individuals who were known to one another,” but didn’t elaborate. Jordan and Knopp were roommates, Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez told NBC News.

Jordan is scheduled to appear in court this afternoon, and Fox News Digital requested multiple documents. But here’s what’s known so far.

Gunshots rang out around 6 a.m. local time on Friday in an upperclassman dorm called the Alpine Village Apartments in Colorado Springs.

Responding officers found Knopp and Montgomery dead inside the dorm room, which triggered an hours-long campus lockdown, as law enforcement searched for a potential active shooter.

Dispatch audio obtained by Fox News Digital revealed first responders were unsure how stable the scene was, or if a gunman was still roaming around campus.

The investigation linked Jordan to the crime, and police secured a warrant for his arrest by Friday night. Detectives searched for him over the weekend, but his name wasn’t publicly released until the evening.

He remained on the loose for most of the day, and police remained tight-lipped about the shooting but reiterated it was an “isolated event.”

The lack of information had students and parents on edge. Classes were canceled.

Shortly before 8 a.m, Colorado Springs Police Department’s Motor Vehicle Theft Unit spotted Jordan, police said on X (formerly Twitter).

A tactical team swarmed the location and arrested him without incident by 8:37 a.m. He was booked on two counts of first-degree murder in the El Paso County, Colorado, jail, and is being held on $1 million bond, according to inmate records.

His mugshot was released at night.

Polish farmers block Ukraine border in grain row

Polish farmers are staging protests against cheap Ukrainian grain flooding the market and EU regulations on pesticide and fertiliser usage.

Tractors flying Polish flags blocked motorways and major junctions in almost 200 locations, organisers said.

Blockades are also taking place at several border crossings with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the protests demonstrated the “daily erosion of solidarity” with Ukraine.

He said the protests were about politics, not grain, because “only 5% of our agricultural exports pass through the Polish border”.

Footage on social media appeared to show grain being spilled onto a train track from a goods wagon at the Medyka crossing.

Ukraine’s ambassador to Poland, Vasyl Zvarych, said the spilled grain was Ukrainian and condemned the action.

Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Zvarych said: “The police should react decisively and punish those who break the law. It is also a lack of respect for the work of Ukrainian farmers in conditions of Russian aggression towards themselves and others. Shame and disgrace, gentlemen!”

A Ukrainian deputy prime minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, called the act a “political provocation aimed at dividing our nations”.

Ukrainian lorry drivers said they would retaliate and blockade Polish drivers at three crossings on their side of the border.

There are huge queues of lorries at several border crossings following protests over recent months. Clearing customs at one crossing is now taking more than two weeks.

Polish protest organisers are demanding the introduction of an import ban on Ukrainian agriculture products and the scrapping of restrictions on the use of fertilisers and pesticides under the EU Green Deal.

The EU allowed Ukraine tariff-free access to its markets following Russia’s invasion.

Polish dealers bought up the cheap Ukrainian grain, but a lack of port infrastructure meant much of the grain remained in Poland rather than being exported to third countries.

That caused stockpiles of grain in Poland to reach record high levels last year.

In May, the European Commission introduced an import ban on Ukrainian grain to five neighbouring countries, although this did not apply to grain meant for transit. When the ban was lifted in September, Poland unilaterally introduced its own ban on four types of grains, as well as flour and animal feed.

Poland‘s new pro-EU government is sympathetic to the farmers’ demands and is urging Brussels to reach a compromise over imports with Ukraine.

In January, the EU said it would introduce a “safeguard mechanism” that would allow it to reimpose emergency tariffs on Ukraine if an excess of imports threatened to destabilise the market.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems: How to Have a Great Vacation in Cypress

Nestled in the heart of Texas, Cypress offers a blend of urban sophistication and small-town charm that sets the stage for a memorable vacation experience. While it might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a getaway, Cypress boasts a variety of attractions and activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie looking to indulge in culinary delights, Cypress has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your vacation in Cypress, TX.

Explore the Great Outdoors:

Cypress is renowned for its picturesque natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Begin your adventure by visiting the Cypress Creek Greenway Project, a sprawling network of trails that wind through lush forests, tranquil creeks, and scenic parks. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or birdwatching, this expansive greenway offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.

For a more immersive outdoor experience, head to the Cypress Top Historic Park, where you can explore historic structures dating back to the early 20th century and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Dive into Local Culture and History:

Delve into Cypress’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting attractions such as the Cypress Historical Society Museum and the Cypress Top Historic Park. These sites offer fascinating insights into the region’s past, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle Cypress’s evolution from a rural outpost to a thriving community.

Additionally, consider taking a guided tour of nearby historic sites, such as the George Ranch Historical Park or the Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in the stories of Texas pioneers and explore meticulously curated botanical collections.

Indulge in Culinary Delights:

No vacation is complete without savoring the local cuisine, and Cypress offers a diverse array of dining options to tantalize your taste buds. From authentic Tex-Mex eateries to upscale restaurants serving gourmet fare, there’s no shortage of culinary experiences to enjoy.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Cypress’s charming cafes or brunch spots, then venture out to discover hidden culinary gems tucked away in local neighborhoods. Be sure to sample regional specialties like Texas barbecue, Southern comfort food, and fresh Gulf seafood for an authentic taste of the Lone Star State.

Relax and Unwind:

After a day of exploration, treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation at one of Cypress’s luxurious spas or wellness retreats. Whether you prefer a soothing massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a restorative yoga session, you’ll find plenty of options to pamper yourself and unwind from the stresses of everyday life.

Alternatively, spend a leisurely afternoon browsing local boutiques and artisan shops, where you can pick up unique souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures to commemorate your visit to Cypress.

With its diverse array of attractions, activities, and culinary delights, Cypress, TX, offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for your next vacation getaway. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in local culture and history, or indulging in culinary delights, Cypress has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this hidden gem of Texas.

BeachBows Host Power-Packed Field In Season-Opening OUTRIGGER Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic

HONOLULU – The University of Hawai’i beach volleyball team opens its 2024 campaign with the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic, Feb. 22-24, at Queen’s Beach. Joining the No. 9 BeachBows is preseason No. 1 USC, as well as No. 2 UCLA, No. 5 LMU and No. 7 Stanford. The team’s will play a round-robin format all-day Thursday and Friday before competing in championship bracket play on Saturday.

Quick Set

What: Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic

Who: No. 1 USC, No. 2 UCLA, No. 5 LMU, No. 7 Stanford, No. 9 Hawai’i

When: February 22-24

Where: Queen’s Beach – Waikiki

Admission: Free

Live Scoring: HawaiiAthletics.com

Schedule

Thursday, February 22

Hawai’i vs. LMU………………..9:00 a.m.

USC vs. UCLA…………………10:15 a.m.

LMU vs. Stanford……………..11:30 a.m.

Hawai’i vs. UCLA……………..12:45 p.m.

USC vs. Stanford…………..  2:00 p.m.

Friday, February 23

Hawai’i vs. Stanford………….9:00 a.m.

LMU vs. USC…………………….10:15 a.m.

UCLA vs. Stanford…………….11:30 a.m.

Hawai’i vs. USC…………………12:45 p.m.

UCLA vs. LMU…………..……..2:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 24

Quarterfinal…………………9:00 a.m.

Semifinal #1………………..10:15 a.m.

Semifinal #2………………..11:30 a.m.

Gold Medal Match………..12:45 p.m.

All-Time Series Records: UH is 3-15 all-time against USC, including three straight losses…the teams have only met once in the last four years, a 5-0 USC victory in the 2022 East Meets West Invitational in Manhattan Beach…UH is 6-14 versus UCLA…the Bruins have won the last 11 matches and 12 of the last 13, including a pair of meetings last year…UCLA has opened the season six of the last seven years in Honolulu and UH is 1-7 against them at home…UH is 10-4 versus Stanford, including 7-3 in Honolulu…like UCLA, this is the sixth time in the last seven seasons the Cardinal open the season in Hawai’i…UH is 12-4 all-time against LMU, including a 9-1 mark in Honolulu… the Lions though have won the last three meetings and have ended UH’s season in each of the last two NCAA Tournaments.

The Squad: UH’s roster totals 21 players…the BeachBows return 16 players from last year’s team that went 27-9 overall and placed No. 10 in the final AVCA rankings.…headlining the returnees is two-time All-American Kaylee Glagau who returns for her fourth and final season as a BeachBow…all-conference players Jaime Santer, Riley Wagoner, Sydney Miller and Pani Napoleon are also back …UH welcomes four newcomers on the squad, including transfer Alana Embry, who went a perfect 43-0 at Grossmont College last year, as well as international standout Julia Lawrenz and Julia Thelle…Lawrenz and Thelle are part of a diverse roster that includes players from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Guam, and Norway, as well as  five different U.S. states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Ohio, and Oregon).

The Skipper: Evan Silberstein enters his 10th season overall in the program and his third season as the head coach for the BeachBows…Silberstein owns a 51-26 record in three seasons while leading the Rainbow Wahine to the NCAAs in each of his first two years at the helm…he was named 2022 co-Big West Coach of the Year following his inaugural season as head coach…during his time as both a head coach and assistant he has helped lead UH to three Big West titles and seven post-season appearances, including six in the NCAA Tournament…UH also welcomes first-year assistant coach Armen Zakarian to the staff…a former outside hitter and libero at UC Santa Barbara, Zakarian was head coach at West Valley College and Santa Barbara City College and also enjoyed a successful stint as an assistant for the UC Irvine men’s indoor squad.

The Schedule: The OUTRIGGER Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic is one of two events in the first three weeks that UH will host at Queen’s Beach…the ‘Bows will also hold the Heineken Queen’s Cup, March 7-9 …UH’s third and final home event sees them host Chaminade, Grand Canyon and Portland during Senior Weekend (April 13-14) on campus at the Ching Complex…in all, UH will face 13 squads that are in the AVCA preseason Top 20, including every single team in the Top 10.…this year’s Big West Championship will be held April 25-26 in Long Beach, Calif., while the 2024 NCAA Championships will once again be held in Gulf Shores, Ala., May 3-5.

Dayton man killed, 3 taken to hospital in Riverside crash

A Dayton man died following a crash in Riverside Sunday afternoon that also sent three people area hospitals.

Those other injuries were non-life-threatening according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Around 3:21 p.m, troopers received a report of a two-vehicle crash at the Harshman Road and state Route 4 intersection.

A preliminary investigation indicated a 2019 Nissan Altima driven by 57-year-old Leonard La Poma was turning onto Harshman Road from the northbound off ramp when the car was hit by a 2023 Hyundai heading southeast on Harshman Road.

La Poma was pronounced dead at the scene, according to troopers. The woman driving the Hyundai was taken to Miami Valley Hospital. Two juveniles in the Hyundai were transported to Dayton Children’s Hospital.

Riverside police and fire crews assisted OSHP at the scene.

Troopers are continuing to investigate the crash.

UNESCO estimates the damage in Ukraine to culture and tourism after 2 years of war at $3.5 billion

UNESCO is the third assessment of the damage and needs since February 2022, which was carried out jointly by the World Bank, the Ukrainian government, the European Commission, and the United Nations.

This estimate covers a total of 4,779 cultural and tourist assets reported as damaged by the Ukrainian authorities. This includes damage to sites and buildings of heritage value (estimated at $2.41 billion); damage to works of art, collections, and cultural repositories ($161 million); damage to buildings and workshops dedicated to the cultural and creative industries ($262 million); and damage to tourism facilities ($650 million). The Kharkiv region was by far the worst affected, accounting for almost 25% of the damage recorded, followed by Donetsk region at 14.7% and Odesa region at 7.6%.

Since February 2022, the culture and tourism sectors have also accumulated lost revenues of  $19.6 billion, representing an increase of 30% in one year. More than half of this loss – $10.6 billion – has been incurred by the city of Kyiv alone, mainly due to the fall in tourist numbers and the sudden slowdown of the creative industries.

According to UNESCO, nearly $9 billion will need to be raised between 2024 and 2033 to finance the recovery and reconstruction efforts. This funding requirement has increased by 30% in one year.

To meet the most urgent needs, UNESCO has raised more than $66 million over the past 2 years from its Member States and the private sector. Japan alone has supported the Organization’s efforts in Ukraine to the tune of almost $26 million. These funds have been used to implement dozens of short- and medium-term actions in the fields of culture, heritage, education, and the media. The Organization has also opened a liaison office in Kyiv to coordinate all of its operations, currently staffed by a team of around twenty people.

Among other initiatives in the field of culture, UNESCO conducts the following:

•           Preventing damage 

Since spring 2022, UNESCO has been supporting the protection of cultural property by supplying emergency equipment and setting up risk management systems. It advises Ukrainian cultural professionals on protecting works of art and improving fire prevention systems. UNESCO has also begun to inventory and 3D-digitize cultural property in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa and Chernihiv. This data will provide an essential documentary basis for reconstruction, and enhance UNESCO’s efforts to fight the illicit trafficking of cultural property, already being implemented through its training and coordination of the police and justice services at regional level.

•           Paving the way for reconstruction

UNESCO has initiated several consolidation and repair projects, including in Odesa at the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Archaeology, and the House of Scientists, as well as at several museums in Kyiv. In Odesa, whose historic center has been on the World Heritage List since January 2023, the Organization will soon install a temporary roof on the Cathedral of the Transfiguration, thanks to support from Italy, to protect the nave from bad weather while reconstruction work is carried out.

•           Training 1600 cultural professionals 

Over the past two years, UNESCO and its partners have trained more than 1,600 cultural professionals to build the capacity of national and local institutions throughout Ukraine, the majority of whose staff had never before been faced with emergency situations. The training included damage assessment, securing museum collections and historic buildings, and preserving living heritage.

•           Support for cultural life

UNESCO has funded residencies for nearly 100 artists in exile. It is also working to ensure the continuation of cultural activities in Ukraine. To achieve this goal, it has just awarded grants to 14 new artistic projects across the country. To support Ukraine’s artistic and cultural community, a UNESCO cultural center will open in Lviv in mid-2024, thanks to funding from Spain.

12 gunmen killed by Mexican soldiers in shootout near Texas border

Twelve gunmen were killed by Mexican soldiers in a shootout near the Texas border, according to Mexican officials.

The security department of the northern border state of Tamaulipas posted on X, formerly Twitter, saying the shootout took place in a neighborhood in Miguel Aleman, across the border from Roma, Texas.

The department wrote that soldiers came under attack by “armed civilians,” with 12 aggressors “reduced” and a total of 12 long weapons, cartridges and magazines of various calibers seized.

No additional information was released and no group immediately claimed responsibility. The Mexican army said it did not have any information on the shootout, according to The Associated Press.

Miguel Aleman has become a hotspot of violence and turf wars between the Cartel of the Northeast, previously known as the Zeta cartels, and the Gulf Cartel. The Gulf Cartel, also known as the Matamoros Cartel, is one of Mexico’s oldest crime syndicates and operates out of Tamaulipas.

In September, gunmen reportedly attacked a convoy of vehicles crossing a bridge that connects Texas to Miguel Aleman. The incident resulted in three individuals injured, including Americans.

The U.S. State Department issued a Do Not Travel advisory for Tamaulipas to Americans early last year, citing the state’s crime and kidnapping issues.

2 People Arrested After Child Remains Found Encased in Concrete in Storage Unit and Trunk of Car in Colorado

Two people were arrested in Colorado after the remains of two young children were found in a container and a suitcase, according to authorities.

An investigation began on Jan. 20 into the whereabouts of Yesenia Dominguez and Jesus Dominguez Jr., who the Pueblo Police Department said in a press release had not been seen since the summer of 2018. Yesenia was believed to be 9 years old and her brother, Jesus, was believed to be 10.

Yesenia’s remains were found inside a metal container in a storage unit on Jan. 22. The container was “filled with hardened concrete and looked suspicious,” according to police, who were responding to a report of suspicious activity in the area.

Her identity was confirmed using DNA on Feb. 15, a week after Jesus’ remains were found in a suitcase in the trunk of a vehicle at a local scrapyard.

The vehicle belonged to Corena Minjarez, who police identified as a person of interest in the case, along with Jesus Dominguez.

Arrest warrants for 1st-degree murder and abuse of a corpse were obtained for Minjarez, 36, and Jesus, 35, per police, and Jesus had an additional charge: theft of government benefits, as well.

Minjarez was arrested on Friday by police, but authorities were “unable to locate” Jesus at the time, the Pueblo Police Department said. She is being held at the Pueblo County Detention Center with a bond of $2 million.

Jesus was arrested, according to a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) from police.

Miami woman killed in collision with log truck

A 55-year-old Miami woman was killed  at the morning when the vehicle she was travelling in  allegedly struck a log truck on U.S. 27 in Glades County.

According to the report issued by the Florida Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at approximately 6:21 a.m. on U.S. 27/Woodward Road.

A 60-year-old Miami man was driving an SUV headed south on U.S. 27 in the outside lane just south of Woodward Road.

A 38-year-old LeHigh Acres man was driving a log truck, also headed south in the outside lane. This vehicle was driving ahead of the SUV at a slow speed.

The driver of the SUV reportedly failed to slow as he approached the log truck and collided with the rear of the trailer.

His passenger was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver sustained serious injuries.

The driver of the log truck, as well as his 70-year-old male passenger were uninjured.

The accident is still under investigation.