Today’s Top Stories
- New Developments in Trump’s Jan. 6 Case
The judge presiding over former President Donald Trump’s Jan. 6 case has unsealed a new court filing, shedding light on the charges related to his alleged attempt to overturn the 2020 election. Prosecutors believe they have enough evidence to convict Trump, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming that presidents have broad immunity for official acts while in office. However, this immunity does not cover actions taken as a candidate or private citizen.
Special Counsel Jack Smith appealed the dismissal of the classified documents case against former President Donald Trump.
Drew Angerer/Getty Images
🎧 NPR’s Carrie Johnson explains that the filing reveals former Vice President Mike Pence took detailed notes about meetings with Trump, which are now central to the prosecution’s case. Prosecutors allege Trump tweeted an attack on Pence while rioters were storming the Capitol. Trump’s campaign claims this is an effort to influence the upcoming November elections.
- Israel’s Escalating Conflict with Hezbollah
Eight Israeli soldiers were killed in a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, part of Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group. Israeli forces have also conducted airstrikes, including one on a building in central Beirut. Lebanese health authorities report that nearly 1,400 people have been killed in under a month.🎧 NPR’s Eyder Peralta notes that Israel has ordered around 50 villages in Lebanon to evacuate, raising concerns about a prolonged war that could engulf the entire country. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has been showcasing the devastation in their strongholds, highlighting the growing tension.
- Tyre Nichols Police Brutality Case
Jury deliberations begin today in the high-profile trial related to the death of Tyre Nichols, a Black man beaten by Memphis police officers during a traffic stop in 2023. Three of the fired officers—Justin Smith, Tadarrius Bean, and Demetrius Haley—are accused of multiple felonies, including excessive use of force and obstructing justice.🎧 NPR’s Debbie Elliott reports that two officers have already pleaded guilty and testified against the others. Prosecutors urge jurors to trust their eyes as they review video footage of the beating.
Deep Dive: Decline in Fentanyl-Related Deaths
An Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent checks pedestrians’ documentation at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in San Ysidro, Calif., on Oct. 2.
Sandy Huffaker/AFP via Getty Images
The U.S. has seen a decline in fentanyl-related deaths over the last year, and experts are pointing to a potential weakening in the potency of the drug being sold on the streets. Criminal organizations are reportedly diluting fentanyl using industrial chemicals like BTMPS, which may be contributing to fewer overdoses.
💊 Some believe that increased pressure on Mexican drug cartels, who smuggle fentanyl into the U.S., is also impacting the supply chain. However, law enforcement warns that this decline could be temporary, as traffickers may find new ways to distribute the drug.
Life Advice: Preparing for Floodwaters During Hurricane Season
Heavy rains from hurricane Helene caused record flooding and damage in Asheville, North Carolina.
Melissa Sue Gerrits/Getty Images/Getty Images North America
As hurricane season continues, it’s important to be aware that water—rather than wind—is the biggest threat. With climate change making heavy rainfall more frequent, here’s how to prepare for flooding:
🌧️ Check for damage to power and gas lines before re-entering a flooded home.
🌧️ If your house is safe, turn off electricity at the circuit breaker.
🌧️ Document the height of floodwaters for insurance claims and assistance.
🌧️ Stay put if you’re unable to evacuate; floodwaters are dangerous, so wait for help.
For more detailed tips, visit our complete guide on flood preparedness.
3 Things to Know Before You Go
Ronan Day Lewis and his father, Daniel Day-Lewis (left to right in center) are teaming up for a feature film that will bring the decorated actor out of retirement. The pair are seen here as they attended a film screening last year.
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
- Daniel Day-Lewis Returns to Acting
The three-time Oscar winner is coming out of retirement to star in Anemone, a film directed by his son, Ronan Day-Lewis. The father-son duo co-wrote the film. - Doctor Accused in Matthew Perry’s Death Pleads Guilty
Mark Chavez, the doctor accused of providing ketamine to Friends star Matthew Perry, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute the drug. Perry passed away in October 2023. - Uber Wins Appeal Over Car Crash Lawsuit
A New Jersey court has ruled that a couple cannot sue Uber over a near-fatal crash, citing the terms and conditions they agreed to while using the app.
