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Florida Lawmaker Shocked by Report of 31 Sloths Found Dead in Warehouse

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In a disturbing revelation, Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) expressed his outrage on Thursday following a shocking report that unveiled the tragic demise of 31 sloths. These creatures, intended to be the stars of a new tourist attraction called Sloth World in Orlando, Fla., succumbed to horrific conditions even before the venue opened its doors to the public.

Originating from the lush rainforests of South America, the sloths met their untimely end in a storage warehouse between December 2024 and February 2025. This grim detail emerged from an incident report filed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

In a statement on social media platform X, Frost condemned the circumstances, saying, “These sloths — naturally solitary animals — were put in the worst conditions possible. They were taken from their natural habitats to a packed warehouse that wasn’t properly heated and allowed for the spread of deadly viruses, leading to a stress-induced death.”

The report further detailed that Peter Bandre, who owned the facility at the time, confessed to inspectors that 21 of the sloths, transported from Guyana, perished due to a “cold stun.” This occurred because the facility was ill-prepared for the sloths’ arrival amidst December’s frigid temperatures. Compounding the tragedy, the warehouse lacked essential amenities such as water and electricity, instead relying on heaters powered by an extension cord from an adjacent building.

According to the report, Bandre admitted that though the building was inadequately prepared for the sloths, the shipment had progressed too far to be halted. The revelation underscores a dire need for better regulatory oversight to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

The other 10 sloths arrived from Peru four days after the first batch, with two sloths dead on arrival. The others died from poor health issues after appearing emaciated.

Frost said he was looking into the tragedy and would coordinate with local officials to determine how to best move forward.

“I’ve called on the Secretary of Agriculture and USDA to investigate Sloth World, protect any surviving sloths, and prevent more from being brought in,” Frost said in a follow-up X post Friday. “We cannot allow this to continue.”

Sloth World said it had been “managing a difficult situation regarding a foreign virus” and has worked tirelessly to address it, alongside their veterinarian, the Florida Department of Agriculture and other outside experts, according to a statement to central Florida’s Fox 35 on Monday. 

But Sloth World also told Fox 35, “We are aware of rumors such as claiming that our sloths were ‘cold-stunned’ or left without water and electricity.”

“These claims are entirely false. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission conducted a thorough inspection of our facility just last week, found absolutely no wrongdoings, and fully renewed our license,” the statement said. 

An inspector with Orange County’s Building Safety on Thursday issued a “stop work” order at the warehouse after visiting the building, according to Fox 35. It determined that it appeared animals were being stored without a permit, but it was unclear if sloths were actively in the building.

Florida School Board Scandal: Member Embezzles $100K for Personal Luxuries

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Florida School Board Scandal: Member Embezzles $100K for Personal Luxuries

A former Miami-Dade School Board member is set to serve time in prison after admitting to the misuse of school district credit cards for personal expenses, including shopping sprees and vacations.

Lubby Navarro, who previously held a position on the Miami-Dade School Board, entered a guilty plea on April 14 to charges of third-degree grand theft. According to a statement from the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, she received a sentence of 14 months in prison, followed by three years of probation.

As part of her punishment, Navarro is required to repay over $100,000. Additionally, she is prohibited from holding any government position or managing finances in a role that involves public trust during her probationary period, the spokesperson confirmed.

During her sentencing on April 14, Navarro expressed remorse, stating, “I want to begin by apologizing to the children of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, for whom I had the honor of serving for eight years,” as reported by NBC 6. She added, “I believe I can now begin to put this behind me and serve the time.”

The investigation into Navarro began in January 2023 when Miami-Dade County Public Schools noticed potential discrepancies in her outstanding credit bill. According to an arrest warrant obtained by Oxygen, investigators discovered unauthorized charges, requests for increased credit limits, and surveillance footage allegedly capturing Navarro making some of these purchases.

Navarro—who had two credit cards issued by the school district—allegedly spent more than $92,000, in part on beauty products, clothing and household goods, authorities wrote in the warrant, plus more than $42,000 on gift cards for Gucci, Smoothie King, Starbucks and Nordstrom.

A second card, meant for travel, was used to charge more than $9,000 on airfare, hotels, car rentals, meals and more for trips to Punta Cana and Las Vegas, expenses authorities noted in the warrant paid not just for Navarro but also family and friends. 

After Navarro’s 2024 arrest, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle criticized her actions as “pathetic.” 

“Every dollar stolen and spent by Navarro is a dollar taken from our school system, and therefore, stolen from our children diminishing their possibility for a better future,” Rundle said in a press release. “Lubby Navarro, who had been the Vice Chair of the School Board and had worked for the school system since 2002, knew better than to have gone down this pathetic path.”  

Defense attorney Benedict Kuehne did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Oxygen.   

“We ask the community to fully accept that she has accepted her wrongdoing. She has started the path to rehabilitation,” Kuehne said, according to NBC 6. “She never intended to hurt the children of this community who she loves. She never intended to cause disruption to the school board, and this is a step to correcting those issues.”

Spokespeople from the School Board of Miami-Dade County and Miami-Dade Public Schools did not return requests for comment from Oxygen.

Achieve Elite Full-Body Strength After 60 with This Farmer’s Carry Challenge

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Achieve Elite Full-Body Strength After 60 with This Farmer’s Carry Challenge

Renowned for its strength-building prowess, the farmer’s carry is a staple exercise that boasts significant benefits. It draws inspiration from the demanding tasks of actual farmers who routinely transport hefty items like hay bales and buckets of water, often in each hand. In a gym setting, this translates to carrying heavy kettlebells or dumbbells, targeting full-body strength with a particular focus on the upper back, grip, and overall endurance. The exercise also reinforces stability and promotes an upright posture while handling heavy weights.

To delve deeper into the benefits of this exercise for those eager to enhance and maintain their strength, we consulted Rob Moal, CPT, a seasoned trainer with Train Like Rob in Vancouver, BC, and Karina Wait, a personal trainer at Life Time Edina. Moal brings over two decades of experience in aiding clients to build strength, lose weight, and move pain-free. His credentials include certifications in personal training, nutrition, TRX, FMS, CAFS from the Grey Institute, kettlebell training, corrective exercise, Twist Conditioning, and CrossFit, with a focus on strength, mobility, and recovery for individuals aged 35 and over.

According to Moal, the farmer’s carry resembles a “moving plank under load,” engaging grip strength, core anti-rotation, shoulder and hip stability, and single-leg loading simultaneously. In his words, “Nothing is isolated, and nothing gets to rest.” This exercise proves invaluable for daily strength, especially for those over 60, making tasks like carrying groceries or luggage significantly easier.

We spoke with Rob Moal, CPT with Train Like Rob who’s based in Vancouver, BC, and  Life Time Edina Personal Trainer Karina Wait, who break down the benefits of the exercise for those who want to build and maintain strength. Moal has more than 20 years of experience under his belt helping clients build strength, shed fat, and move without pain. He holds certifications in personal training, nutrition, TRX, FMS, CAFS (Grey Institute), kettlebell training, corrective exercise, Twist Conditioning, and CrossFit, specializing in strength, mobility, and recovery for individuals 35+.

Why Is the Farmer’s Carry Such an Effective Test of Total-Body Strength and Endurance?

According to Moal, the farmer’s carry is essentially a moving plank under load, where grip, core anti-rotation, shoulder and hip stability, and single-leg loading all occur at once. As he puts it: “Nothing is isolated, and nothing gets to rest.” This exercise translates to everyday strength after 60, from carrying grocery bags to luggage.

“[The farmer’s carry] is a fundamental movement because it forces your body to act as one solid piece while you’re in motion,” Wait adds. “Your grip and forearms do the heavy lifting, but your upper back and shoulders are the anchors that keep your arms from being pulled out of position. To stay upright, your abs and obliques wrap around your spine like a tight corset, preventing the weights from wobbling you side-to-side. Meanwhile, your hips and glutes keep your foundation steady with every step. If any of these parts get lazy, the whole movement falls apart, which is why it’s such a perfect way to build ‘functional’ strength.”

If You Can Hold a Farmer’s Carry This Long After 60, Your Full-Body Strength Is Top-Tier

Muscular athlete walking and carrying two kettlebells in a parking lot
Shutterstock

If you’re over 60, working your way up to 50% of your body weight for a farmer’s carry is a solid place to start. In Moal’s experience working with clients 60+, top-tier means carrying more than 50% of your body weight for roughly 98 to 131 feet while maintaining proper posture. For instance, for a 180-pound person, that means carrying 90 pounds or more.

“But honestly, the numbers matter less than the quality,” Moal stresses. “Grip doesn’t fail before posture, no forward lean, smooth controlled steps, and you can repeat sets. That combination is genuinely rare after 60.”

What Strong Performance Indicates About Your Balance, Posture, and Core Stability

Ideal body. Close-up of young athletic woman with tattoo on her hands in sportswear exercising with dumbbells while standing in front of window at gym.
Shutterstock

If you’re able to carry well after 60, that signals solid functional strength.

“The carry demands the core resist being pulled sideways under load, and that’s the exact same thing that keeps you from going down when you trip,” Moal explains. “Every step is a single-leg event, so if you can do it well, your hips and balance are working the way they should. It tells you more about real-world strength than most gym tests.”

According to Wait, completing a heavy farmer’s carry is proof that your body’s “built to last.” Your posture and upper back are solid enough to resist the constant pull of the weight, helping you to stand tall rather than slouch.

“Your core has to stay locked in—from your abs all the way to your spine—to keep you upright and rock-steady,” Wait adds. “Most importantly, it’s a masterclass in balance; since you’re moving one foot at a time, your hips and midsection act like a car stabilizer bar, keeping you level no matter how much the load tries to tip you over. As an added bonus, this total-body tension teaches your muscles to ‘clamp down’ and support your frame, which takes the jarring pressure off your joints and puts the work where it belongs.”

How To Improve and Progress

In order to achieve a rock-solid carry, mastering stillness before moving is key, Wait says. She recommends kicking things off with static suitcase holds, where you’ll stand tall, holding a dumbbell or kettlebell only in one hand for 3 to 4 sets of 30 seconds on each side. Once you complete all sets without leaning or your grip slipping, move on to the double-arm hold.

“Because the load is now balanced, your body can handle much more—start with your suitcase weight in both hands and aim to increase the total load by 25 to 50%. For example, if you mastered a 30-pound suitcase hold, jump to 40 pounds in each hand for your double-arm hold. Stay at this level until you can stand tall for 3 to 4 sets of 60 seconds,” Wait instructs. “Mastering this static ‘capacity test’ proves your posture can handle the weight before you add the instability of walking. When you finally transition to the farmer’s carry, start with that same heavy weight for 30 seconds. As it becomes manageable, push the time to 60 seconds before increasing the weight by another 5 to 10 pounds. and resetting the clock. This ensures your grip and joints are just as ready as your muscles for heavier loads.”

Concern Grows Over Iran’s Controversial Campaign Encouraging Australian Youth Participation

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IN BRIEF

  • Iran’s embassy has promoted a wartime volunteer campaign.
  • Iranian Australians say they are “shocked” by the announcement.

A campaign aimed at recruiting wartime volunteers, which is being promoted by the Iranian embassy in Canberra, has caused significant concern among Iranian Australians. The initiative, which controversially allows children as young as 12 to enlist, has been described as “very dangerous” by members of the diaspora.

The embassy shared details of the campaign on Monday, raising eyebrows and sparking debate. According to information obtained by SBS News, the campaign encourages Iranians living abroad to join the regime’s ‘Janfada’—a term that means ‘sacrificing life’—initiative.

This recruitment drive, which was launched in Iran last month, is seeking volunteers to engage in the ongoing conflict that erupted following U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran in February. The situation has since escalated into a broader regional conflict, although there are currently temporary and fragile ceasefires in effect.

Rana Dadpour, who speaks for the Australian United Solidarity for Iran—a group that represents the Iranian diaspora and advocates for regime change—expressed her outrage. She criticized the campaign’s promotion in Australia, calling it “very dangerous” and voiced her concerns about its potential impact.

Rana Dadpour, a spokesperson for the Australian United Solidarity for Iran which represents the diaspora and advocates for regime change in Iran, said she was “furious” what she labelled a “very dangerous” campaign was being promoted in Australia.

“The community is shocked and very angry about it. I have received several communications from different members of our community, asking me what we should do about it,” she told SBS News.

“They are basically very scared. And very concerned about it.”

‘Against our own national security’

Material linked to the campaign says it is intended to enable Iranians abroad to “declare their readiness to play an effective role in confronting” the US and Israel and “defending the Islamic Republic of Iran”.

It features the phrase “Sacrificing Life, For Iran” and notes registration is open for those aged 12 and over.

It is not the first time in recent weeks that children as young as 12 have been targeted. After a separate but similar campaign was announced in Iran last month, Human Rights Watch said there was “no excuse” for military drives involving children.

A text message sent to people in Iran when Janfada launched said it was introduced “with the threats of the American-Zionist enemy against the islands and borders of Iran” to “declare readiness to defend the country’s territory”.

It is unclear what roles volunteers would play to “defend” the country.

“It is asking people to register to fight against the United States, which is an ally [for Australia]… If anyone registers, they would be acting against our own national security in Australia,” Dadpour said.

“I don’t even know how it is allowed.

“If anyone is going to register in this kind of campaign, they are a danger to our community.”

Iranian embassies in other countries have also shared how members of the diaspora can join the campaign.

The Australian Federal Police told SBS News it was aware of the posts by Iran’s embassy in Canberra and would provide an update “at an appropriate time”.

Calls for government investigation

The Iranian embassy’s promotion of the campaign comes after its ambassador was expelled from Australia in August, after the federal government declared the Iranian regime had directed two antisemitic attacks in the country.

The embassy, however, has not been closed and continues to provide consular services.

Kylie Moore-Gilbert, a research fellow at Macquarie University, who was jailed for two years on espionage charges in Iran, said: “It’s alarming that the Iranian embassy in Canberra is promoting any kind of media campaign at all, given it is meant to have been reduced to a small number of junior staff tasked with processing visas.”

“The government should investigate propaganda activities coming out of the embassy and consider whether a further reduction in the number of diplomats allowed to operate there is warranted.”

SBS News has contacted the Iranian embassy in Canberra for comment.

At the same time the ambassador was expelled, the federal government also listed Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) — a branch of the Iranian armed forces that plays a key role in its military operations — as a state sponsor of terrorism.

This makes it unlawful for Australian individuals or entities to engage with its members or offer any form of support to the group.

“Australians who are involved in supporting terrorism pose a threat to Australia’s peace and democracy,” an Australian government spokesperson said.

Australian law also makes it a criminal offence to travel to another country, prepare to do so, or recruit others to take part in hostile activities.

“Fighting with or supporting a terrorist organisation carries heavy penalties, including the potential for life imprisonment,” the spokesperson said.

‘Another theatre of war’

Iranian officials claim up to 30 million people have registered for the campaign.

President Masoud Pezeskian has said they “may not be needed to fight on the front lines”, but they can contribute to the “society”.

Last week, local media in Iran reported that “Janfada girls” had been involved in a pro-regime demonstration in Iran.

“The Janfada campaign to me is just another facet of the sophisticated media disinformation campaign propagated by the regime in what has become another theatre of war,” Moore-Gilbert said.

“The war online and in the information sphere, including Iran’s viral use of memes and trolling, is in part designed to generate support for Iran, behind enemy lines, including in Australia.

“In my view, all Western governments have been asleep at the wheel when it comes to state-sponsored disinformation and propaganda, and we should take active steps to shut down such campaigns on the grounds of national security.”

For the latest from SBS News, download our app and subscribe to our newsletter.

Behind the Scenes Shake-Up: Dutton Ranch Spin-Off Replaces Showrunner After Just One Season

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Behind the Scenes Shake-Up: Dutton Ranch Spin-Off Replaces Showrunner After Just One Season



Despite not having aired yet, “Dutton Ranch,” the anticipated spin-off of “Yellowstone,” finds itself embroiled in controversy. Ahead of its scheduled premiere on May 15, the show’s creator and showrunner, Chad Feehan, has been dismissed and is not expected to return if a second season is commissioned.


Beth and Rip dancing in

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

According to Puck News, the issue stemmed from “Dutton Ranch” being Feehan’s inaugural venture as a showrunner. While he boasts extensive experience in producing and scriptwriting for television, and despite the show’s scripts being well-received, Feehan ran into conflicts with key cast and crew members during production. This included lead actors Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton) and Cole Hauser (Rip Wheeler), who also serve as executive producers on the series.

Puck News further reported that Feehan’s limited history with the “Yellowstone” franchise contributed to the situation. Before “Dutton Ranch,” his only involvement with a Taylor Sheridan series was “Lawman: Bass Reeves,” where he held roles as executive producer, creator, and writer. Ultimately, Sheridan himself was reportedly dissatisfied with Feehan’s approach, resulting in their professional split.

Interestingly, Taylor Sheridan’s involvement in “Dutton Ranch” has been more limited compared to his usual hands-on approach with his projects. Like the other ongoing “Yellowstone” spin-off, “Marshals,” his contributions to “Dutton Ranch” are confined to a “created by” credit and his role as an executive producer. He neither wrote any of the nine approved scripts nor directed any episodes up to this point.

Speculation about Sheridan stepping in to lead a second season of “Dutton Ranch” has been quelled. Should the series proceed, the responsibility will likely fall to another member of the current writing team, who will be elevated to guide future production. Nevertheless, the show must first succeed with audiences. While Paramount executives seem optimistic about Season 1’s reception, the endeavor has already come at the cost of one showrunner’s departure.

Will Taylor Sheridan return to helm Season 2 of Dutton Ranch?


Taylor Sheridan on the AMFAR red carpet in 2026

Ryan Emberley/amfar/Getty Images

It’s worth noting that Taylor Sheridan was not as hands-on with “Dutton Ranch” as he typically is with the majority of his shows; as is the case with the other “Yellowstone” spin-off currently airing, “Marshals,” Sheridan’s involvement extends to a “created by” credit and his status as an executive producer. He didn’t write any of the nine scripts greenlit for “Dutton Ranch,” nor did he direct any of the episodes as of this writing. 

Might Sheridan return to run Season 2 of “Dutton Ranch”? Apparently that won’t be the case. Instead, should the show move forward, another member of the Season 1 writer’s room will get a promotion and spearhead the production. But first “Dutton Ranch” will have to pass the ultimate test and please the viewers at home. While Paramount executives seemingly feel that Season 1 accomplishes that goal, getting a quality outing in the books has already cost them one showrunner.



Shocking Street Takeover: Grinning Suspect Arrested in Fiery Drag Race Caught on Camera

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Shocking Street Takeover: Grinning Suspect Arrested in Fiery Drag Race Caught on Camera

A driver allegedly involved in causing chaos during a “reckless” drag-racing street takeover was taken into custody from his apartment while in handcuffs.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced on Thursday the arrest of 22-year-old Asil Assaidi. He faces charges of reckless endangerment and riot after participating in “dangerous, fiery driving stunts” near two gas stations in New York City on April 18.

“Far too often, these outrageous behaviors go unpunished in the criminal justice system,” remarked New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “It’s clearly time for a change.”

“I am hopeful and expectant that Asil Assaidi will face full accountability for his actions,” she added.

NYC street racing suspect

Asil Assaidi was seen in police custody leaving the NYPD’s 104th Precinct stationhouse in Queens on Thursday, April 23, 2026. (Barry Williams / New York Daily News via Getty Images)

Asil Assaidi is pictured leaving the NYPD's 104th Precinct stationhouse in Queens on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

Asil Assaidi is pictured leaving the NYPD’s 104th Precinct stationhouse in Queens on Thursday, April 23, 2026. (Barry Williams / New York Daily News via Getty Images)

Assaidi, who grinned widely as he was led out of an NYPD stationhouse on his way to court for his arraignment, did not have any prior arrests, police said. People believed to be his friends were also pictured as the suspect was captured leaving the station.

WATCH: Drag racing suspects cause chaos in NYC street takeover

The district attorney’s office said that Assaidi participated in a drag-racing street takeover involving more than 100 vehicles in Queens that triggered an NYPD investigation.

NYC street racing suspect

Asil Assaidi is seen leaving the NYPD’s 104th Precinct stationhouse in Queens on Thursday, April 23, 2026. (Barry Williams / New York Daily News via Getty Images)

NYC street racing suspect

People watch as Assaidi (not pictured) leaves the NYPD’s 104th Precinct stationhouse in Queens on Thursday, April 23, 2026. (Barry Williams / New York Daily News via Getty Images)

The incident was reported shortly before 2 a.m. near Eliot Avenue and 69th Street, according to the NYPD. One of the participants waved a Palestinian flag out the car window while screeching around the intersection.

When officers arrived at the scene, they activated their lights and sirens to disperse the crowd. Dozens of vehicles then fled the area.

Queens from Drag Race performing on a city street

A street takeover unfolds in Queens in New York City on April 18, 2026. (Alexander Negron via Storyful)

Queens Criminal Court Judge Indira Khan ordered Assaidi to return to court May 14. If convicted of the top charge, Assaidi faces up to seven years in prison.

Authorities allege that Assaidi was operating a blue Infiniti G37 with a dark hood panel and missing front bumper during the street racing.

Assaidi, they allege, drove the car in circles around the intersection, nearly colliding with several people standing nearby. Skid marks formed on the road surface and smoke and sparks were produced from the rear end of the car, police said.

An individual poured liquid onto the ground and ignited a ring of flames between Assaidi’s car and the crowd.

The suspect, authorities allege, repeated the reckless driving with a second driver in a silver vehicle that included a second ring of flames in front of the crowd.

NYPD officers standing at a street scene in Queens during a drag racing event

NYPD officers respond to a drag racing takeover in Queens, New York City. (New York Police Department Crime Stoppers)

During the incident, a few people also allegedly jumped on the hood of an NYPD vehicle, causing damage and cracking the windshield before fleeing the scene in a black car.

No injuries were reported in connection with the drag-racing incident.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the NYPD for comment.

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Tragic Mall Shooting: 17-Year-Old Schoolgirl Killed Amid Violent Dispute

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Tragic Mall Shooting: 17-Year-Old Schoolgirl Killed Amid Violent Dispute

A tragic shooting at a Louisiana shopping mall has claimed the life of an innocent 17-year-old girl, leaving at least five others injured.

Martha Odom, a senior from the Ascension Episcopal School in Youngsville, lost her life on Thursday afternoon at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge. Authorities reported that she was caught in the crossfire when two groups exchanged gunfire.

Odom was at the mall with her friends observing a ‘senior skip day,’ just weeks shy of her graduation from the school, which charges an annual tuition of $19,500.

According to police, the incident unfolded shortly after 1:20 p.m. when a disagreement quickly turned violent, leading to multiple individuals discharging their weapons.

The coroner’s office confirmed that Odom was struck in the chest by a bullet and succumbed to her injuries.

Two of her classmates were also hit and are recovering, while another victim, Donnie Guillory, remains in critical condition.

On Friday, Baton Rouge police announced the arrest of 17-year-old Markel Lee in connection with the shooting. 

Police Chief TJ Morse said Lee turned himself in and was booked on one count of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and illegal use of a weapon. 

Martha Odom, 17, was identified as the only fatality in a Louisiana mall shooting

Martha Odom, 17, was identified as the only fatality in a Louisiana mall shooting 

Odom planned to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, where she intended to study English and creative writing

Odom planned to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, where she intended to study English and creative writing

Baton Rouge police and Sheriff deputies responded to a mass shooting at the Mall of Louisiana on Thursday in Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge police and Sheriff deputies responded to a mass shooting at the Mall of Louisiana on Thursday in Baton Rouge, Louisiana 

Authorities have indicated that additional people may have been involved and released an image of a suspect as the investigation intensifies.

The scale of the response underscored the severity of the attack. Local police were joined by the FBI, SWAT teams, the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and state troopers as the mall was locked down. 

Shoppers were escorted out in waves, some guided through back corridors and service tunnels. 

Witnesses described scenes of confusion and horror, with officers carrying children to safety and bystanders attempting to stop the bleeding of the wounded.

One mall employee told local media she initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks. She said she saw victims collapse and grabbed cleaning cloths to press against wounds as blood pooled across the floor.

‘It’s not even safe to go to the mall,’ Youngsville Mayor Ken Ritter said in the aftermath, capturing the shock rippling across communities.

Odom was a writer, dancer and student leader.

She was weeks away from graduation and preparing to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, where she planned to study English and creative writing.

Odom was captain of her school's girls' soccer team and served as editor of the student newspaper. She was killed by a gunshot wound to the chest

Odom was captain of her school’s girls’ soccer team and served as editor of the student newspaper. She was killed by a gunshot wound to the chest

Law enforcement vehicles surround the Mall of Louisiana after a shooting on Thursday

Law enforcement vehicles surround the Mall of Louisiana after a shooting on Thursday

On Friday, Baton Rouge police announced the arrest of 17-year-old Markel Lee in connection with the shooting

On Friday, Baton Rouge police announced the arrest of 17-year-old Markel Lee in connection with the shooting

Authorities have indicated that additional suspects may have been involved and released an image of a suspect as the investigation intensifies

Authorities have indicated that additional suspects may have been involved and released an image of a suspect as the investigation intensifies

She captained her school’s girls’ soccer team, edited the student newspaper and taught younger dancers at her studio. 

She had already earned recognition for her writing, taking first place in the Lafayette Public Library’s 2025 Writes of Spring contest and placing again this year.

She planned to spend her final summer before college at Ballet Austin’s prestigious summer intensive.

In the wake of her death, her school community has been left reeling. 

Classmates gathered for a prayer service, leaving flowers in her parking spot.

‘Her classmates, Ascension faculty, and our Blue Gator families remember Martha as a joyful presence whose kindness and infectious enthusiasm brought light to all who knew her,’ the school said in a statement shared on social media.

Three of the victims in the shooting were seniors at the school, Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet confirmed.

Odom’s writing now reads with haunting clarity. In one student newspaper piece, she reflected on journalism and the courage it demands, including the ‘grit’ required to uncover truth and the importance of resisting silence.

In another, she shared lighter observations about music, friendships and the small joys of everyday life.

During a recent spring break trip to New York City, she wrote about attending a New York Rangers game and seeing Broadway productions, including The Outsiders and Cats.

Odom was described by her school as a 'joyful presence' whose kindness and enthusiasm 'brought light to all who knew her'

Odom was described by her school as a ‘joyful presence’ whose kindness and enthusiasm ‘brought light to all who knew her’

She was also a dancer and instructor who had planned to attend Ballet Austin’s summer intensive before starting college

She was also a dancer and instructor who had planned to attend Ballet Austin’s summer intensive before starting college

Another victim identified as Donnie Guillory (right) was also injured and remains in critical condition

Another victim identified as Donnie Guillory (right) was also injured and remains in critical condition

At least nice people were reported injured in the incident, with some requiring emergency surgery

At least nice people were reported injured in the incident, with some requiring emergency surgery

Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas S. 'TJ' Morse, Jr., left, walks with Mayor-President of Baton Rouge Sid Edwards, center left, after a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana

Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas S. ‘TJ’ Morse, Jr., left, walks with Mayor-President of Baton Rouge Sid Edwards, center left, after a shooting at the Mall of Louisiana

Sid Edwards, mayor-president of Baton Rouge, left, speaks next to Police Chief Thomas S. 'TJ' Morse, Jr. after the shooting in Baton Rouge

Sid Edwards, mayor-president of Baton Rouge, left, speaks next to Police Chief Thomas S. ‘TJ’ Morse, Jr. after the shooting in Baton Rouge

Her family, including her parents and younger sister, are now grappling with the loss. 

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, who said her family had known the Odoms for decades, expressed her grief publicly.

‘There are no words for the devastating loss of innocent life,’ Murrill wrote. ‘I’m praying for her, her family and friends, and the entire Lafayette community during this heartbreaking time.’

Baton Rouge Bishop Michael Duca said: ‘Our prayers are with those who were critically injured, all who were harmed, and every family whose lives have been suddenly and painfully shaken by this act of violence, especially those who have lost a loved one.’

Political leaders across the state echoed those sentiments, while also demanding accountability. 

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said he was coordinating with law enforcement. US Senator Bill Cassidy thanked first responders and expressed hope for the recovery of the injured.

Mayor Sid Edwards credited the rapid police response with preventing further loss of life. ‘We will catch you,’ he said, addressing those responsible. ‘We’re not having this in Baton Rouge.’

The tragedy unfolded just days after another mass killing in Louisiana, intensifying concerns about escalating violence across the state. 

Shocking Plot Unveiled: Trans Substitute Teacher, 19, Accused of Planning Virginia School Attack

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Shocking Plot Unveiled: Trans Substitute Teacher, 19, Accused of Planning Virginia School Attack

A substitute teacher identifying as transgender in Virginia has been detained over allegations of planning a frightening “murder spree” targeting a local school, while also boasting online about a sinister hit list.

Nineteen-year-old Hadyn Dollery was apprehended on the premises of John Champe High School in Stone Ridge, located roughly 40 miles from Washington, DC. The arrest followed threatening messages posted on Discord, as reported by the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office and various media sources.

Authorities were alerted to the suspect’s alarming online activity through a tip received via the department’s Safe2Talk app.

According to a criminal complaint accessed by the Loudon Times-Mirror, the alleged plotter issued threats against family and acquaintances on the messaging platform, including alarming discussions about a mass attack at the school.

The complaint further revealed that the troubled youth, hailing from Chantilly, also claimed possession of a “kill list.”

Dollery worked as a “non-licensed” substitute teacher for the 2025-26 school year but was later scrubbed from the district’s list after being thrown behind bars, the outlet reported.

The long-haired suspect, seen grinning in their mugshot, was charged with threats of bodily harm and is now being held without bond at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center, cops said.

The deranged teen — who identifies as a trans woman — was booked as a male and is reportedly being housed alone, WJLA reported.

Dollery is due back in court on May 26.

One Year Later: Unveiling the Lingering Impact of Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath

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One Year Later: Unveiling the Lingering Impact of Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath


AUGUSTA, Ga. – The neighborhood felt the full brunt of Hurricane Helene’s fierce winds, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

“There was just debris piled up all along the front of our house. It was pretty bad,” recounted resident Michelle Riley, her voice tinged with the memory of the storm’s aftermath.

In the days following the hurricane, the city faced the monumental task of clearing over three million tons of debris. The cleanup, a daunting endeavor, was finally completed a year ago, marking a significant milestone for the community.

On Eisenhower Drive, residents are now relieved to see the end of the constant disruption caused by debris removal trucks. “The house would rumble every single time a truck goes by. A truck was going by every fifteen to ten minutes,” shared Dylan Forester, reflecting on the relentless noise that once filled their days.

“The house would rumble every single time a truck goes by. A truck was going by every fifteen to ten minutes,” said Dylan Forester.

Though the piles are picked up, there are still a couple of signs that Helene was here.

“That seems crazy, I guess the winds caused that,” said Sydney Andrews.

‘That’…are these street two street signs and this one on Henry that look like they have been sandblasted.

“Probably the result of the hurricane,” said Michelle.

“That’s kind of cool. That’s crazy. It just shows you how crazy the winds were,” said Dylan.

A.I. says flying debris from a hurricane can chip, crack, or peel the reflective coating on street signs, so there’s that.

So, a question: should the signs be replaced or remain as a testament to this tempest?

“I kind of thought it needed to be replaced but then it’s kind of a remembrance of what happened,” said Michelle.

“If possible, I would like it to be cleaned,” said Sydney.

“You’re no fun.”

“Sorry,” she said with a laugh.

Even downtown, the sign shows Helene got down. In Augusta, George Eskola NewsChannel 6.

McLean County EMA Introduces New K9 Puppy for Enhanced Search and Rescue Operations

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McLean County EMA Introduces New K9 Puppy for Enhanced Search and Rescue Operations


NORMAL, Ill. (WCIA) — Across the state, first responders are well-prepared with the guiding principle of “expect the unexpected.” In McLean County, an exceptional team of dogs is trained to save lives in myriad situations. These canines have been instrumental in rescue missions not only within Illinois but also internationally.

Among these life-saving dogs is K9 Kai, a young Labrador retriever, who is just three months old and currently undergoing training to assist people in distress. His specialty will be locating missing individuals.

“We’ve dealt with scenarios where farmers head out to their fields and don’t return by nightfall,” explained Sgt. Robert Glinka. “We’ve also had instances of Alzheimer’s patients wandering away from home, and children going missing.”

No matter the circumstance, when the McLean County Search and Rescue team is summoned by law enforcement or other first responders, a group of dedicated volunteer handlers and their K9 companions spring into action.

“The reason we utilize dogs is their extraordinary sense of smell, far superior to our own,” Glinka noted. “If it were just about visual searches, we could manage on our own.”

While demonstrating how Kai uses her nose to find missing people, Glinka explained how his dog recognized a scent of a person hiding behind equipment. For Kai’s good detective work, he gets lots of playtime as positive reinforcement.

The goal is to have such a good time finding someone while training that he will try even harder when preparation meets reality out in the field.

Why does McLean Co. have search and rescue dogs?

The team all started with Joan Brehm, another volunteer training officer. She grew up in Wisconsin, was involved in 4H and was always around dogs as a child.

After moving out west as an adult and spending time in the mountains, she realized the puppy she had at that point had a hidden purpose — helping backcountry search and rescue teams in Montana.

After moving back home to the Midwest in 2003 and starting her career at Illinois State University, she knew the search-and-rescue skills she had learned in Montana could be beneficial here as well.

Brehm joined a non-profit that would eventually merge into the McLean County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) K9 Operations Team.

“It’s rare here in the Midwest. It’s not rare out west,” she explained.

Now, she works with her 4-year-old golden retriever, Rip. He’s trained to track scents and find living, missing humans. It’s the same thing Kai will do one day, too.

Where do the dogs go on rescue missions?

The team of seven handlers and nine dogs are typically deployed anywhere in Illinois south of I-80, usually within a 2-3 hour radius of Bloomington-Normal.

“There’s no better feeling in the world,” Brehm added. “If we help one family, all of this is worth it.”

Some of the dogs have been deployed to Hawaii following recent fires. They’ve also gone to hurricane disaster zones in Florida or to training in Costa Rica.

Over the years, the team has helped several families all across the world be reunited with loved ones. They’ve also provided closure to communities that have been seeking answers for a missing person.

“Really gives you a good feeling that you’re helping the community,” Glinka added.

Now, Glinka is making sure his young dog Kai is fully trained and ready to go, so he can start making a difference, too.

If you’re interested in doing something like this with your dog, Glinka recommends contacting your area EMA. Make sure it’s something you can handle before potentially adding your dog into the mix as well.

For more details about the program in McLean County, visit their website.

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