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Tragic Case Resolved: Mother’s Fate Decided After Child’s Accidental Suffocation

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Tragic Case Resolved: Mother’s Fate Decided After Child’s Accidental Suffocation

Inset: A photo of Jaley Bush from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Background: The moment Bush was interviewed by officers of the Keokuk Police Department.

The life of an Iowa woman has taken a pivotal turn after she claimed her baby accidentally rolled into a trash can, leading to his tragic death.

At the age of 28, Jaley Bush was charged with child endangerment resulting in death following the death of her son, known as R.S., as initially reported by Law&Crime.

Bush received a five-year prison sentence after admitting to charges of child endangerment and involuntary manslaughter in May, according to information from local ABC affiliate KCRG based in Cedar Rapids.

On January 27, according to a criminal complaint accessed by Law&Crime, Bush was at a friend’s residence on Hickory Terrace in Keokuk. She had her infant son with her, and they both fell asleep on a bed located in a basement bedroom.

She awoke to find her son “head first and unresponsive inside of a trash can next to the bed,” the court document stated. The child had fallen asleep “on the inside portion of the bed” and the defendant believed he “must have crawled over or around her before falling into the trash can.”

Officers with the Keokuk Police Department responded to the home at about 2 p.m. that day and began lifesaving efforts on the child. Bush was there, too, and she apparently “exhibited signs of being under the influence of some form of narcotics as her demeanor was stoic and her speech appeared to be slurred.”

Law&Crime obtained body-worn camera footage of officers’ conversation with Bush at the residence. She tells them of her child, “he had rolled into the trash bag.”

Before falling asleep that day, Bush said she took Klonopin, a sedative that “produces a calming effect on the brain and nerves” and “helps to reduce anxiety, prevent seizures, and promote relaxation,” according to WebMD. She allegedly “did not know whom the pills belonged to,” according to the criminal complaint.

The next day, authorities got a search warrant to obtain a blood sample from Bush. She reportedly tested positive for methamphetamine and benzodiazepines, the latter of which is the classification for Klonopin. She told police she did not take any drugs from the time first responders arrived at her home to the time the drug test was taken, per the court document.

The baby was pronounced dead on Feb. 5 with the cause of death ruled to be asphyxia — a lack of oxygen.

Bush will serve her sentence at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women.

Keokuk is located in southeastern Iowa, straddling the borders of Missouri and Illinois.

Woodson African American Museum Celebrates 20 Years with Grand Reopening in St. Pete

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Woodson African American Museum Celebrates 20 Years with Grand Reopening in St. Pete

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — After seven months of extensive renovations, the Woodson African American Museum of Florida welcomed visitors once again on Saturday. The grand reopening, celebrating two decades of the museum’s commitment to preserving African American history, took place in St. Petersburg.

Since closing its doors in January, the museum has undergone significant upgrades. The revamp includes a complete interior makeover, with improved lighting, new flooring, updated restrooms, and enhancements to the HVAC system.

At the grand reopening ceremony, Executive Director Terri Lipsey Scott expressed her heartfelt emotions, reflecting on the museum’s significant milestone.

“Fulfilling each challenge you’ve set before me, time and again. Let me express my gratitude—let God,” Scott shared. “Lord, I simply thank you.”

Attendees felt that the reopening symbolized much more than just refurbished facilities.

State Rep. Michele Rayner (D-St. Petersburg) explained the museum was a symbol of perseverance.

“This is not just a museum, but this is actually a manifestation of what our ancestors fought for,” Rep. Rayner said. “When we think about our ancestors who couldn’t read, but they passed down oral histories to us. This is just the beginning of what is happening. Something very special is happening on this hallowed ground, and we, as people who are supporters and people who are residents and people who understand the power of history and the power of black history, we must ensure that it remains and that we can continue the work.”

The renovations were not the museum’s original plan.

In 2022, museum executives applied and were granted $1 million through the state department’s Florida African American Cultural and Historical Grant Program to help build what was envisioned as Florida’s first purpose-built African American museum.

That vision was tied to a previous redevelopment agreement for Tropicana Field and the Historic Gas Plant District, which included plans for a new museum.

The redevelopment deal collapsed in 2025, and museum leaders redirected the state funding toward renovating the existing facility.

“We ran against the clock, and with that being said, we made a tough decision to put those funds toward the renovation of our space,” Scott said.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said the long-term goal of building a new museum remains alive despite the failed redevelopment agreement.

“I know there are some folks who say, ‘slow down, take a pause’; it’s not time to pause,” Welch said. “It’s been 40 years of promises, and we are moving forward with a development team that has promised a minimum $10 million investment in that new museum, and we’re going to keep moving forward.”

The museum will reopen to the public on Tuesday at noon. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Suspect Claims Diet Drug Influence in Fatal Shooting of Police Officer and New Father

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Suspect Claims Diet Drug Influence in Fatal Shooting of Police Officer and New Father

Fulton County Police Officer Aaron Blount, a devoted father and fiancé known for his dedication to community service, was approaching the end of his shift when he noticed a vehicle swerving unpredictably. He decided to take action.

Tragically, just a few minutes later, the 26-year-old officer would lose his life.

The heartbreaking discovery came shortly after 10 p.m. on April 22, 2003. While patrolling his route in South Fulton County, Georgia, fellow Fulton County Police Officer Reginald McCain encountered a shocking scene.

“That night will forever be etched in my memory,” McCain shared during the fourth season opener of Oxygen’s The Real Murders of Atlanta. “I noticed a police vehicle with its blue lights flashing in the distance. It had veered off the road into a dense brush near railroad tracks.”

Realizing the car belonged to Blount, his adjacent beat partner and close friend, McCain approached and discovered a horrifying sight. The vehicle’s windows were shattered, and Blount was found slumped over the seat, still holding his gun. He had been shot multiple times in the body and head.

In the days that would follow, investigators set out to recreate Blount’s final movements, ultimately leading them to a suspect with no prior criminal record who deployed an unconventional defense. 

Who Was Aaron Blount? 

Blount grew up less than a mile from where he died and was committed to giving back to his community, whether it was through his work as a police officer or coaching and mentoring younger kids on the basketball court. 

“Aaron definitely was a community guy,” his fiancée Nicole Manns recalled, “and that was important to him to kind of give back to where he grew up.”

Blount—a one-time student at the Naval Academy—was also eager to make a difference in the life of his own 13-month-old son, A.J., whom he shared with Manns. 

As she explained, “He was an amazing father.”

What Happened to Aaron Blount?

On the evening of April 22, Manns was waiting for Blount to get off work.

“I knew he would be coming home soon and I called him and he said, ‘I’m on my way home,’” she recalled. “And he said, ‘Hey, this guy is driving crazy in front of me, I’m going to call you back.’” 

It would be the last time she ever spoke with her fiancé.

Later that night, McCain made the grisly discovery along the roadway and called for backup. Former Fulton County Police Officer Charles Cook—the squad’s medic—was one of the first to arrive.

“Aaron was covered in blood on his head,” Cook recalled. “He had what appeared to be a bullet in the back of his shoulder and shirt. This is when I noticed Aaron had his gun out [and] had his finger on the trigger.” 

Though he was rushed to Atlanta’s Grady Memorial Hospital, Blount did not survive.

“I just broke down and I started crying,” former Fulton County Police homicide detective Glenn Kalish remembered of hearing the news. “Not just for Aaron and the rest of the Fulton County Police Department, but I felt a lot of personal pressure on me being assigned this case and the weight of the case.”

Investigators Piece Together Final Moments of Aaron Blount’s Life

As detectives began to their investigation, they learned that there had been multiple 911 calls that night about a silver vehicle driving erratically not far from the murder scene.

They were also surprised to discover a handgun laying on the ground in the parking lot of a gas station, just across the road from where Blount’s vehicle had come to rest. 

They came to believe that Blount had been following a car down the roadway when the driver hopped out at the gas station and waited for Blount to come around the corner, then fired directly into his vehicle, before setting the weapon down and fleeing the scene.

Injured, Blount likely took his foot off the brake, causing the patrol car to roll across Roosevelt Highway into the grassy area by the train tracks.

An eyewitness who had been driving by the gas station also came forward to share what he knew about the fatal shooting.

“We see the police got his lights on at the gas station,” the witness told police. “And as I was approaching the light, I heard a gunshot. And I saw a guy standing…at point blank range shooting through the window.”

According to his account, the shooter then turned and calmly walked away before getting into a silver Ford Focus.

He described the shooter as a larger Black male, around 6’2” tall and around 250 pounds or more.

Though the medical examiner was able to connect the weapon found at the scene to the bullets in Blount’s patrol car and body, a second gun had been used to deliver the shots to his head, leading investigators to believe the cold-blooded killer had used two separate weapons.

Kenneth G. Reese Emerges As Suspect in Aaron Blount’s Death

Investigators caught another break in the case when they learned the weapon that had been recovered at the scene was registered to Kenneth Reese.

Though authorities initially believed the weapon was linked to a fire department captain and arson investigator with a stellar reputation—sending shockwaves through the law enforcement community—they learned after speaking with Kenneth that he had a younger nephew with the same name, who often went by the nickname “Little Kenny.”

Little Kenny had no criminal record, but did own at least one firearm. Even more telling, investigators were able to link him to a silver Ford Focus rental car. Yet, according to Little Kenny’s family, he had gone to Florida and now appeared to be on the run.

“He came from a good family,” former homicide detective Melvin Dean said. “A real solid family in the community.”

Little Kenny’s grandmother was the first Black woman to own a gospel television network and his father was a professional wrestler turned celebrated minister. But when Little Kenny lost his father just one year before Blount’s death, those close to him say his life began to fall apart.

“His father’s death was such an impact on him,” a family spokesperson shared. “He was grieving so bad that he could not handle coming to his father’s funeral.” 

According to the spokesperson, Little Kenny started carrying a gun and began showing signs of paranoia, believing that someone may be following him.

Who Killed Police Officer Aaron Blount?

Five days after Blount’s murder, Little Kenny was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals at a bus station in Miami and was charged with first-degree murder. 

The district attorney announced that he was planning to seek the death penalty, but before the case could go to trial, his defense team came forward with evidence that he had been taking the diet drug ephedra—later banned by the FDA—which they argued had impaired his mental state.

After state psychiatrists also concluded that Little Kenny may have been suffering from drug-related psychosis at the time of the shooting, prosecutors decided to offer him a plea deal. 

In exchange for removing the death penalty, Little Kenny agreed to plead guilty and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Blount’s family—including Manns and his now adult-son A.J.—continue to keep his memory alive.

“I want the people in Atlanta to remember that he protected his community. He protected his family,” Manns said. “He was just…a really good guy, a great dad, a great partner, a great friend, and I think they would be proud and should continue to be proud of him.”

Keir Starmer Lightheartedly Jibes Norwegian PM Following Thrilling World Cup Victory

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Keir Starmer Lightheartedly Jibes Norwegian PM Following Thrilling World Cup Victory

(The Hill) — In a playful exchange, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer sportingly jested with Norway’s leader following England’s victory in their World Cup match against Norway on Saturday.

Starmer humorously remarked on social media, saying, “Norway 1 – 2 Jude Bellingham. @JonasGahrStore, your boys took one h-ll of beating,” as he referred to the key player in the game.

Jude Bellingham, a standout midfielder for England, was the star of the match, netting both of his team’s goals during the game held in Miami. Fans delightedly serenaded him with The Beatles’ iconic tune “Hey Jude” in celebration of the triumph.

Starmer, who declared last month his plans to step down from Britain’s highest political office, is a well-known sports enthusiast.

Adding to the celebrations, former English football legend David Beckham shared in the excitement by posting a congratulatory message to the team on Instagram.

“What a moment in miami, I’m so proud of the team tonight reaching the Semi final of the World Cup and to celebrate with my family was so special… Thank you @england for giving our country these moments,” he wrote alongside a photo of him and his family at the game. 

England will now proceed to the semi-finals round of this tournament, where they will face the winner of the match between Argentina and Switzerland. The team has not played in a World Cup final since 1966.

Ranking the Moana Trilogy: From Originals to Live-Action Adaptation

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Ranking the Moana Trilogy: From Originals to Live-Action Adaptation

Moana sailing on the water in

Disney

It is undeniable that “Moana” has secured its status as a beloved Disney classic, with the allure of the 2016 film only strengthening over time. Audiences have been captivated by the tale of the film’s protagonist, Moana, voiced by Auli’i Cravalho, a spirited Polynesian teenager who embarks on a daring oceanic journey to rescue her island, Motunui, from an impending famine threatening its resources.

To fulfill her quest, Moana seeks the aid of Maui, a shapeshifting demigod portrayed by Dwayne Johnson, whose boastfulness about his powers adds to the adventure’s charm. Together, they traverse the ocean on Moana’s canoe, aiming to restore the heart of the living island, Te Fiti, and return balance to nature.

The extent of “Moana’s” success was unpredictable at its release in 2016. Although it grossed $300 million less than “Zootopia,” another Disney animation blockbuster of the same year, “Moana” garnered two Oscar nominations, became a staple in streaming libraries, and its anticipated sequel in 2024, “Moana 2,” achieved an impressive $1 billion at the box office. Disney’s effort to extend this enchanting coming-of-age musical into a multi-platform franchise was inevitable, leading to sequels, theme park experiences, and the recent debut of a live-action adaptation, now available in theaters nationwide.

With three films already in the “Moana” series and “Moana 3” currently in the works, it’s time to evaluate which movie has the courage, or perhaps the heart, to contend with the fiery entity, Te Kā.

3. Moana (2026)

Maui surprising Tamatoa in

Disney

Critics frequently voice concerns about Disney’s live-action remakes, accusing the company of focusing too much on faithfully reproducing the animated originals without innovation, rendering them somewhat redundant. The 2026 rendition of “Moana” follows in the footsteps of earlier remakes such as 2017’s “Beauty and the Beast” and 2019’s “The Lion King.” It’s considered by many as another unnecessary adaptation most likely aimed at maintaining brand loyalty. However, this version has managed to set an even lower standard according to some detractors of the genre.

Critics didn’t hold back on this soulless retread that’s pretty much the exact same movie down to the shot compositions, story beats, dialogue, songs, and even jokes. It’s a dispiriting experience in which director Thomas Kail turns one of Disney’s best animated movies of the 2010s into sludge and feeds it back to you through an aesthetically ugly cash-in that hopes you’ll see through the facade.

Dwayne Johnson’s live-action turn as Maui always looks like he’s doing a tired bit for “Saturday Night Live,” as he sports one of the worst screen wigs in recent memory. It’s hard to believe this is the same guy who brought such gusto, humility, and humor to the beloved character in spite of working from the same material. While she can definitely sing, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia appears lost, her Moana stranded among a sea of artificial green screen backgrounds and mechanical rigs. You can’t help but notice that Laga’aia and Johnson have no spark to their screen chemistry, and often don’t even occupy the same frame together.

2026’s “Moana” possesses everything you loved about the less-than-a-decade-old phenomenon, albeit without a shred of humanity. This makes you wonder why they went through with this (besides the obvious answer) when about 70% of the film is animated. In short, it’s the live-action remake the Generative AI generation deserves.

2. Moana 2

Moana looking up at Matangi in

Disney

The Mouse House initially planned to bring Moana back to the screen in a television series for Disney+, which was developed throughout the early 2020s. Somewhere along the way, the project was retooled as a proper theatrical sequel. But much like this year’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” “Moana 2” still can’t help but feel like a bunch of episodes of a streaming series stitched together.

It takes place three years after the events of the first film, with Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) embracing her position as both a chieftess of Motunui and a wayfinder of the seas. Her ancestors inform her that the reason the people across the ocean are so fractured from one another is because of the storm god Nalo (Tofiga Fepulea’i), who sank the island beacon of Montufetu to the bottom of the ocean. Moana sets out along with a motley crew of islanders to find Maui (Dwayne Johnson), battle monsters, and restore the connection.

On paper, the plot of “Moana 2” sounds like a fun idea that sends the spunky wayfinder out on another oceanic adventure, as well as a timely story about communal reconciliation, but it can’t escape the narrative pacing of a television series condensed to a movie. You can clearly see where each episode is meant to end. Even the songs are completely forgettable, as are the raft’s batch of generic occupants. In that way, the film fails to recapture the magic of the original.

Otherwise, it’s still a gorgeously animated follow-up with its own share of colorful imagery. Allowing Cravalho to play Moana as older helps establish the passing of time and moves the story forward. “Moana 2” is able to stick the landing just enough that it presents an opportunity for the next movie to take advantage of the wayfinder’s newfound abilities.

1. Moana (2016)

Moana returning to Motunui on her raft in

DIsney

Disney legends John Musker and Ron Clements continued their winning streak of directing some of the company’s most memorable animated features with 2016’s “Moana,” which still holds up insanely well. The pair’s original idea was meant to be centered around Maui and his place in Polynesian mythology as a demigod, but their research in the Pacific Islands led them to rework the project to center around a chief’s daughter, who would ultimately become Moana. 

It was a wise decision that gave audiences a contemporary Disney protagonist who could sing, be funny, learn from her mistakes, and leap into action at a moment’s notice. Then-newcomer Auli’i Cravalho (who believes she’s one and the same with her animated counterpart) is so effortlessly charming in the role, embodying a great role model. She doesn’t set out to shirk her responsibilities, so much as retrofit them to satiate her sense of adventurous yearning.

Cravalho’s presence is matched by Dwayne Johnson bringing an extraordinary amount of expressiveness, pathos, and humor to Maui. They’re an excellent screen pair who always keep each other on their toes. The tradition of earworm Disney songs is maintained with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s buoyant tunes, like “You’re Welcome” and “How Far I’ll Go.” It also helps that, in addition to being a very fun family adventure flick, “Moana” is deeply reverential of Polynesian culture in a manner that lends it a great deal of authenticity.

“Moana” is a movie that continues to reach the hearts and minds of many people through its stunning animation, lovable characters, and timeless lesson of environmental protection ensuring our future.

Bristol Rhythm AFC and Fans Propel Team to Undefeated Season and Conference Championship

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Bristol Rhythm AFC and Fans Propel Team to Undefeated Season and Conference Championship

BRISTOL, Va. (WJHL) – Bristol Rhythm AFC has triumphantly completed their season without a single loss, achieving an impressive record of 9 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw. This accomplishment has earned them the title of Southeastern Conference Champions in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).

On Saturday, they secured a convincing 4-1 victory over the 865 Alliance from Knoxville, Tennessee, right in their hometown of Bristol, Va. This win sets the stage for Bristol Rhythm to host their upcoming National Playoffs match next Saturday at the Gene Malcolm Stadium.

An enthusiastic supporter of the team, Liesa Jenkins, who hails from Washington County, Va., has not missed a single home game. Jenkins, who developed a passion for soccer during her time at King University, is now a familiar face in the crowd, cheering on Bristol Rhythm AFC at every match.

In a conversation with News Channel 11, Jenkins expressed how the team positively impacts the region.

“I think it’s awesome our community has a soccer team,” Jenkins remarked.

Jenkins said that having a team like the Rhythm is not only a benefit to the community but is a model for young people. She added that even those from out of the country become a part of the community.

“They’re somebody our community can be proud of and get behind,” Jenkins said. “I love that aspect of it, that it’s really a team that is both local and global.”

Bristol Rhythm AFC won’t be heading to the next round without their support either.

“As far as they go, we’ll be here supporting them,” Jenkins said.

Conor McGregor Exits UFC 329 Arena Barefoot Following Severe Knee Injury

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Conor McGregor Exits UFC 329 Arena Barefoot Following Severe Knee Injury

Conor McGregor quickly departed from T-Mobile Arena after his unfortunate appearance at UFC 329.

With a knee injury that left him limping and without shoes, McGregor exited amid cries for others to clear the way. His night ended in disarray after his first kick attempt against Max Holloway went awry, marking his return to the UFC since 2021 with deafening boos of displeasure.

McGregor also opted out of a post-fight interview with Paramount Plus.

Seconds into his showdown with Holloway, the 37-year-old McGregor advanced to the octagon’s center, aiming for a high kick with his left leg. However, the moment took an unexpected turn as he lost his footing and slid across the mat.

Attempting to regain his composure, McGregor tried the same kick again but ended up slipping once more.

That allowed Holloway to land punches, and the fight was called after just 69 seconds.

Holloway, in an interview after the fight, said that McGregor told him to fight even after the injury occurred, prompting Holloway to say, ‘You’re f—king crazy, bro.”

“When he went down the second time, I could just tell,” Holloway said. “His whole demeanor changed.”

Argentina Secures Dramatic Semifinal Showdown Against England After Switzerland Victory

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Argentina Secures Dramatic Semifinal Showdown Against England After Switzerland Victory

Get ready to mark your calendars and fill your fridge—Argentina is set to battle England in the World Cup semifinals, a groundbreaking event for Lionel Messi.

It promises to be a historic night, highlighted by a striking fact from Messi’s illustrious career. Over 21 years, through six World Cups and 205 national caps, the 39-year-old Argentine superstar has never squared off against England.

Encounters between these two football giants are a rarity. The last recorded clash came in late 2005 during a friendly match in Geneva, but Messi wasn’t part of it due to a suspension. Just months earlier, he had famously been red-carded just 30 seconds into his debut against Hungary.

Two decades have passed, leading to another tense evening for the reigning champions as Messi finally secures a match against England. In a grueling quarterfinal against Switzerland, Argentina endured a tight squeeze. Lionel Scaloni’s team struggled for much of the match, needing extra time to overcome their opponents. Thanks to two forwards, neither of which was Messi, they advanced with a much-needed moment of brilliance.

Certainly, Messi played a pivotal role in setting up Alexis Mac Allister’s goal, but 18 minutes from the end, the contest remained finely balanced. Dan Ndoye managed to equalize for Switzerland, giving Murat Yakin’s squad the upper hand. Drama unfolded when Breel Embolo was controversially sent off for simulating a foul, a decision overturned by VAR due to mistaken identity. But that incident deserves its own story.

Down to 10 men, Switzerland clung on until the 112th minute, when Julian Alvarez curled a quite brilliant shot into the top corner. And then, in stoppage time, Lautaro Martinez slotted in a third to set up the latest chapter of one of soccer’s most storied battles.

Julian Alvarez scored a stunning extra-time goal as Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1

Julian Alvarez scored a stunning extra-time goal as Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1

Lionel Messi and Co will now face England in a mouthwatering semifinal in Atlanta

Lionel Messi and Co will now face England in a mouthwatering semifinal in Atlanta

Lautaro Martinez sealed Argentina's 3-1 victory with a goal in stoppage time of extra time

Lautaro Martinez sealed Argentina’s 3-1 victory with a goal in stoppage time of extra time

So, barring disaster over the next four days, Messi will lead Argentina out for their sixth World Cup clash with England. The story of this rivalry stretches over 64 years, from the Chilean city of Rancagua to a $1.6billion dome in Atlanta, via Wembley, Mexico City, Saint-Etienne, Sapporo, one raised hand and one flick of David Beckham’s leg.

With victory over Mexico, England have already exorcised a few demons at the Azteca. Now, 40 years after they were haunted by the fist of Diego Maradona, they face the dancing feet of another Argentina No 10. All that remains to be seen? How much more Messi’s creaking body can take. The 39-year-old has now racked up 330 minutes over three knockout games. But only a fool would bet against him writing his own slice of this story.

Shortly before kickoff in Kansas City, in a brief pause from the adverts and announcements and the invitations to make more noise, the stadium cameraman zoomed in on one elderly woman in the stands.

She was decked out in Argentina colors and she was carrying a sign. It read: ‘I’ve lived through every World Cup.’

Simple arithmetic would suggest she is knocking on the door of a century and over the course of that extraordinary life, she won’t have seen many tournaments or title defenses quite like this. Or individual campaigns with numbers to rival these.

It took 10 minutes for Messi to register his 10th goal involvement of this World Cup, Mac Allister meeting his corner with a glancing header that flashed past Gregor Kobel and ratcheted up the noise another few notches.

Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was sent off for diving during a dramatic second half

Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was sent off for diving during a dramatic second half

A few minutes earlier, Dan Ndoye had brought Switzerland level, leaving this tie on a knife edge

A few minutes earlier, Dan Ndoye had brought Switzerland level, leaving this tie on a knife edge

It was a terrific header but, for Switzerland, it was a sickener – they had settled much the quicker, only to concede from Argentina’s first real venture forward. All of a sudden, Yakin’s side were tasked with coming from behind – that was uncharted territory for Switzerland at this World Cup.

And for 20 minutes of this second half, they banged on the Argentina door without any joy. Emiliano Martinez saved from Embolo’s header and then from Ndoye’s header and then from Granit Xhaka’s long-range shot. Each time, the goalkeeper responded by whipping up the crowd. But they eventually fell silent after Ndoye finished off a neat move by beating the goalkeeper from a tight angle.

For the first time all night, the noise was coming from the tiny pocket of Swiss fans behind Martinez’s goal. Then referee Joao Pinheiro booked Leandro Paredes for a tackle on Embolo and all hell broke loose: VAR asked Pinheiro to have another look.

Replays showed Embolo – who was already on a yellow card – had dived. That did not stop the Swiss bench from exploding in fury. Cue more allegations of favoritism toward the defending champions. And perhaps there are serious questions to be asked about whether this is what VAR is for. But let’s be clear: it was the right call. And so a blubbing Embolo had to be escorted down the tunnel by Swiss players and staff.

From there on out, they were clinging on for penalties. Mac Allister sent a late effort over and then, in stoppage time, Messi curled narrowly wide before Kobel parried away an acrobatic volley from Lisandro Martinez. 

Extra time was a little more than a siege and Switzerland – in their first World Cup quarterfinal since 1954 – held firm until Alvarez opened up his body and took aim for the far corner. By then, the Swiss had nothing left. But there was still time for Martinez to add a third and set up a mouthwatering semifinal.

FANS FACE MORE TORTURE 

Next week’s showdown in Atlanta promises to be an occasion to rival any other at this – or any – World Cup. It is a fixture teeming with history and storylines and scores to settle. And recent history suggests it could be a brutal watch.

For much of this World Cup, neither England nor Argentina have really clicked into gear. Time and again, they have been forced to dig themselves out of a hole. Time and again, they have relied on the genius of a few individuals. It has made for dramatic, chaotic journeys to the last four. And on Wednesday, something has to give. 

If France’s clash with Spain looks set to be a tactical tussle between two slick attacking units, England against Argentina could be another night of torture for fans of both teams.

Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead with a header from Messi's corner

Alexis Mac Allister gave Argentina an early lead with a header from Messi’s corner

Embolo was overcome with emotion after he was shown a red card by referee Joao Pinheiro

Embolo was overcome with emotion after he was shown a red card by referee Joao Pinheiro

EMBOLO LEAVES SWITZERLAND IN THE LURCH 

In the end, Breel Embolo ended this World Cup just as he began it – separated from his teammates and wondering what he had done wrong. Nearly six weeks have passed since the Switzerland striker was blocked from traveling to the US because of issues with his visa.

It turned out his ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) was no longer approved. Thankfully, it didn’t take long for Embolo to rejoin the rest of the squad and over the past month he has led the line for Yakin’s side – scoring two goals, creating two more and causing Argentina plenty of problems here, too.

But then the authorities took issue with Embolo once more. Switzerland had just equalized when the referee consulted his monitor and realized that Embolo had dived. It was brainless from the striker. No wonder the tears began to flow after his fate was sealed.

ARGENTINA INVADES THE MIDWEST 

They boarded flights before dawn on the West Coast of this vast country. They congregated in the lobbies of hotels around Kansas City. They wandered along the highways toward Arrowhead Stadium in the scorching midafternoon sun. And then they flicked their wrists and emptied their lungs all night.

This was an invasion of Argentineans and locals besotted by their No 10. Together, they made a deafening din throughout this quarterfinal. Save for a small pocket of red behind one goal, this entire stadium was painted blue and white. It was a remarkable sight.

The only snag? There was space for plenty more Argentineans. In the middle and upper tiers of Arrowhead Stadium, empty seats were everywhere. It was a crying shame and a dreadful look for FIFA who – of course – announced another full house regardless. Earlier in the week, on one resale site, the cheapest ticket for this game was $1,142.

US-Iran Tensions Escalate with Strategic Strikes Following Strait of Hormuz Incident, Prompting Tehran’s Aggressive Retaliation

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US-Iran Tensions Escalate with Strategic Strikes Following Strait of Hormuz Incident, Prompting Tehran’s Aggressive Retaliation

In a move of retribution, the United States has initiated strikes against Iran following its missile attack on a cargo vessel navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the US Central Command, the container ship, sailing under a Cypriot flag, suffered significant damage during the incident on Saturday, as confirmed on X.

Officials reported that a crew member remained unaccounted for after the “blatant” assault halted the ship’s progress.

The US Central Command remarked that Iran was once again given a chance to uphold the Memorandum of Understanding in light of previous accountability for assaults on commercial ships, an expectation it has failed to meet yet again.

A compelling video shared by US Central Command captured the nighttime retaliatory strikes, showcasing US forces targeting approximately 140 Iranian military sites using a mix of aircraft, drones, and naval artillery.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth vowed revenge for the strike and said: ‘Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay.’ 

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the strait closed until further notice after the attack, according to a statement cited by CNN.

As the US retaliated, at least six Middle Eastern countries sounded alarms, with Iran claiming responsibility for strikes in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Oman, and Qatar announcing it had intercepted a missile attack.

US Central Command posted dramatic video of the retaliatory strikes on X, saying that US forces had struck about 140 Iranian military targets

US Central Command posted dramatic video of the retaliatory strikes on X, saying that US forces had struck about 140 Iranian military targets

The US said that the munitions hitting the Iranian targets on Saturday had been launched by aircraft, drones and vessels

The US said that the munitions hitting the Iranian targets on Saturday had been launched by aircraft, drones and vessels

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard declared the Strait of Hormuz closed until further notice after firing a missile at a cargo ship, with the US subsequently launching retaliatory strikes

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard declared the Strait of Hormuz closed until further notice after firing a missile at a cargo ship, with the US subsequently launching retaliatory strikes

President Trump said Friday that the US had agreed to continue negotiating with Iran but 'that the Cease Fire is OVER!'

President Trump said Friday that the US had agreed to continue negotiating with Iran but ‘that the Cease Fire is OVER!’ 

The vessel, which American authorities named as the M/V GFS Galaxy, was attempting to use an unauthorized route to cross the waterway, the IRGC claimed. 

The US military’s strikes on Saturday night, which began around 7.15pm Eastern time, marked the third round against Iran this week.

Some of the targets attacked by US forces included missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, ammunition storage facilities, communication networks and coastal surveillance locations, US Central Command said.

Iran had said the strait was being shut down ‘given the precariousness that was caused by this unlawful interference by outside parties.’

It added that the closure would be ‘until further notice and until regional interference by the US ceases,’ per the statement cited by CNN. ‘No vessel or naval craft will be allowed to pass.’ 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had met with his Omani counterpart on Saturday to discuss the strait given the recent tension.

Araghchi explained that the meeting in Muscat, Oman, was meant to discuss ‘appropriate mechanisms for ensuring the safe passage of ships,’ according to the Associated Press.

Omani and Iranian negotiators were set to continue talks ‘at the technical and political levels,’ Reuters reported, citing Oman’s state news agency.

Explosions have been reported in southern Iran in the port cites of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, according to Iran’s IRIB state broadcaster, as per Al Jazeera.

At least 12 explosions have reportedly been heard in different parts of the Bushehr province, which homes the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. 

No casualties had been reported as of early Saturday night, according to Ehsan Jahanian, the province’s deputy governor for political, security and social affairs. 

More than 10 explosions were heard in the port city of Jask, according to the outlet, citing the IRNA news agency. 

Blasts were also heard in Chabahar, Bandar–e Deyr and Asaluyeh, the outlet added. Other explosions have been reported near Konarak and Chabahar.

The IRGC said the Strait of Hormuz would be closed 'until regional interference by the US ceases'

The IRGC said the Strait of Hormuz would be closed ‘until regional interference by the US ceases’

The US had already launched retaliatory strikes on Iran earlier this week after three ships were hit in the strait

The US had already launched retaliatory strikes on Iran earlier this week after three ships were hit in the strait

US Central Command said it had targeted missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, ammunition storage facilities, communication networks and coastal surveillance locations

US Central Command said it had targeted missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, ammunition storage facilities, communication networks and coastal surveillance locations

During three strikes this week, Central Command said it had struck more than 300 targets at the direction of President Trump

During three strikes this week, Central Command said it had struck more than 300 targets at the direction of President Trump

Iran claimed it had targeted US military facilities at Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan with several missiles, according to Al Jazeera, citing the IRIB state broadcaster.

The IRGC claimed its aerospace forces had destroyed a command–and–control center at the base and hangars with MQ–9 drones. 

Additionally, Iran claimed a second strike on an ‘offending vessel’ in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that supposed US–Israeli ‘aggressions’ would lead to ‘even more devastating’ attacks. 

The country’s state broadcaster also claimed Iran had launched drone attacks on US military sites in Kuwait and Bahrain. 

The IRGC claimed it used explosive drones to target a Patriot air defense system, an ammunition depot and a radar site belonging to the US military in Kuwait, as well as a communications system and radar site in Bahrain. 

Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior had activated air raid sirens and directed locals to head to the nearest safe place, it said on X. The Kuwaiti Army said it was ‘confronting hostile aerial targets.’

Qatar’s Ministry of Defense said that a missile attack had been intercepted, though it did not give further details. The country’s Ministry of Interior had urged everyone to remain inside their homes or in safe places.

The IRGC claimed it had targeted the airbase at Qatar’s Al Udeid with ballistic missiles, according to Al Jazeera. 

Through the state broadcaster, the IRGC also claimed responsibility for a ‘heavy and surprise’ attack on the Duqm Port in Oman on US aircraft carrier ships and refueling platforms. 

The United Arab Emirates said its air defenses were ‘engaging’ with incoming missiles and drone attacks from Iran, per Al Jazeera.

One of Iran’s top negotiators, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, addressed the attacks on social media.

‘The era of one-sided deals is OVER,’ Ghalibaf wrote early Sunday on X. ‘We told you: keep your word or pay the price. Reality is knocking.’ 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (pictured) had traveled to Oman on Saturday to discuss 'appropriate mechanisms for ensuring the safe passage of ships' through the strait

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (pictured) had traveled to Oman on Saturday to discuss ‘appropriate mechanisms for ensuring the safe passage of ships’ through the strait

On Friday, President Trump said on Truth Social that he had agreed to continue negotiating with Iran but insisted ‘that the Cease Fire is OVER!’ 

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei released a written statement the following day, vowing to ‘avenge the blood of the martyred leader and ​all the martyrs of these two wars from the criminal and disgraced killers,’ per Reuters. 

‘Whether we ​are there or not, this will be accomplished, and soon every free person around ​the world will fulfill a part of this divine mission,’ Khamenei’s statement read.

Khamenei has not been seen since he was appointed Supreme Leader after his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in US–Israeli airstrikes on February 28, when the war started.

Earlier this week, the US had already retaliated against Iran on Wednesday after three ships were struck in the Strait of Hormuz. 

The ships included a Qatari liquefied natural gas tanker, as well as a Saudi crude oil tanker, according to Al Jazeera. 

As part of that attack, American forces hit about 90 military targets, including at least 60 IRGC boats. In total, the three strikes this week hit more than 300 targets.

‘US forces remain vigilant, lethal, and prepared to execute operations directed by the Commander in Chief,’ a Central Command statement at the time said. 

The Strait of Hormuz, which consists of a narrow passage of water between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is a vital part of the global economy.

Around a fifth of the world’s traded oil flowed through the strait every day prior to the ongoing war.

But as oil exports go down because of the tensions in the strait, the price of gas has largely risen around the world, putting a strain on customers’ wallets.

The Daily Mail reached out to the White House for comment. 

Former Buckingham Insider Claims Prince Harry’s Demands Prevented Extended Palace Stay

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Former Buckingham Insider Claims Prince Harry’s Demands Prevented Extended Palace Stay

Prince Harry attends day 2 of a Court of Appeal hearing regarding his security at the Royal Courts of Justice

The British monarchy

A former insider from the esteemed royal household is revealing why spur-of-the-moment decisions to stay at the Palace are not an option for the Duke of Sussex.

Published on

The latest episode of tension between Prince Harry and the royal enclave unfolded even before the duke’s return to Britain. It came to light that an invitation extended for Harry to stay at Buckingham Palace was later retracted.

According to the Palace, Harry missed the deadline to confirm his acceptance of the invitation. Contrarily, Harry’s representatives argue that he had indeed accepted, only for the invitation to be retracted. This led to conflicting accounts, causing Harry to seek accommodation elsewhere.

Now, someone who used to work for the royals is defending the Palace’s decision not to allow the prince to stay there at the last minute and why it would have been a logistics nightmare.

Darren McGrady was Queen Elizabeth II‘s personal chef at Buckingham Palace for more than a decade before he was transferred to Kensington Palace in 1993, becoming Princess Diana’s chef at Kensington Palace. He cooked for the princess and her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, up until Diana’s death in 1997.

Speaking on behalf of Smooth Spins Casino, Stanton told Showbiz Cheat Sheet, “It’s been reported that Harry’s not going to Buckingham Palace. It got me thinking back to when I was there cooking, and we’d get a phone call saying that Prince Charles was flying back from Highgrove to London by helicopter and he wanted lamb for lunch. We’d have to call Harrods and get them to send over a rack of lamb. They’d put it into a freezer bag in a backpack and get it sent to us by motorbike.

“Everything that the royal wanted, we had to provide. Princess Anne would decide to stay the night and would want overripe bananas, so we had to make sure we had them for her to put in her fruit bowl. We were there to cater for every single member of the family, even if it was unexpected.”

Stanton then commented on why the Duke of Sussex couldn’t just turn around at the eleventh hour and decide he wants to stay at the royal residence, explaining, “I got thinking about how Buckingham Palace is going through its major restoration — no one is there, and all the chefs, for the most part, have gone.

“It would be a major operation to suddenly, at the very last minute, bring in a team of chefs and prepare the food. It wouldn’t just be chefs, but also bringing in the maids, security, and footmen. I do see the point in what they’re saying with regards to Harry coming and staying at the Palace.”

The former royal chef also gave his take on what he thinks Princess Diana would have made of the ongoing family rift, opining, “Princess Diana would have loved to have seen William and Harry back together as friends. Will it happen? I don’t know. I was only a chef there. Would I like to see it happen? I would love it… From a personal view, I would love to see them together again.”
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