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Copycat Concerns Amplify as Altman Attacker Cites Luigi Mangione

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Copycat Concerns Amplify as Altman Attacker Cites Luigi Mangione

A man from Texas has been charged with firebombing the residence of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Before the incident, he made online references to alleged murderer Luigi Mangione, raising concerns about potential imitation crimes, according to authorities.

Daniel Moreno-Gama, aged 20, mentioned “Luigi’ing some tech CEOs” during an online conversation with the creators of “The Last Invention” podcast. This information comes from The Wall Street Journal, which reviewed the message screenshots. Luigi Mangione stands accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan in December 2024.

In an interview recorded in January, Moreno-Gama spoke about his transformation from an online enthusiast to an activist deeply worried about the dangers of artificial intelligence, as reported by the outlet.

However, he later minimized his comments about Mangione and expressed his opposition to violence.

Daniel Moreno-Gama's attorney speaks to him in court

Daniel Moreno-Gama is shown in court alongside public defender Diamond Ward on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, Pool)

“I understand the frustration with a person who might advocate for that, but it’s not practical,” Moreno-Gama said, according to the outlet. “It’s not worth it,” he added.

Moreno-Gama is accused of traveling from Texas to San Francisco in a planned attempt to kill Altman. Early Friday morning, he allegedly hurled a Molotov cocktail at Altman’s home, setting an exterior gate on fire before fleeing. No injuries were reported, and officials have not said whether Altman was home at the time.

Less than an hour later, investigators said Moreno-Gama arrived at OpenAI’s headquarters about three miles away, where he allegedly threatened to burn the building down and kill anyone inside. Surveillance video captured him throwing a chair at the glass doors, police said.

Split of Moreno-Gama and Luigi Mangione.

Left: Daniel Moreno-Gama is seen outside the home of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in a surveillance image released by the Justice Department. Right: Luigi Mangione, who is accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, is seen in court. Moreno-Gama reportedly referenced Mangione. (DOJ; Photo by Curtis Means-Pool/Getty Images)

Authorities arrested him outside the building, where he was allegedly carrying a jug of kerosene, a lighter and writings expressing hostility toward artificial intelligence.

Sources familiar with the investigation previously told Fox News Digital the suspect had what they described as a manifesto, a multi-part document that included a list of AI executives and investors along with their names and addresses.

Moreno-Gama appeared in a San Francisco courtroom but did not enter a plea on multiple charges, including attempted murder. A judge granted a delay in his arraignment, and he is due back in court on May 5.

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson wearing a suit and orange tie and suspect Luigi Mangione in court

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, left, pictured in a corporate headshot. He was killed on Dec. 4, 2024, outside a Manhattan hotel while on his way to a shareholder conference. The suspect, Luigi Mangione, is pictured in court on the right. (Steven Hirsch for New York Post via Pool)

The reference comes amid growing fears of copycat incidents tied to Mangione.

In a separate case, a California man is accused of deliberately setting an April 7 fire that destroyed a 1.2 million-square-foot Kimberly-Clark distribution center in Ontario.

Prosecutors said the suspect, Chamel Abdulkarim, 29, of Highland, invoked Mangione while filming the fire and complaining about wages. Abdulkarim has pleaded not guilty.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This report has been updated to remove a photo from an unrelated court case.

Michael Dorgan is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business.

You can send tips to michael.dorgan@fox.com and follow him on Twitter @M_Dorgan.

Florida Man Allegedly Forces Girlfriend into Trunk of Her Vehicle, Authorities Report

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Florida Man Allegedly Forces Girlfriend into Trunk of Her Vehicle, Authorities Report

A Florida man is accused of forcing his girlfriend into the trunk of her car and assaulting her when she attempted to escape.

Travis D. Tillman Jr.

Inset: Travis D. Tillman Jr. (Miami-Dade Corrections). Background: The 7000 block of NW 177th Street in Miami, Florida, where Tillman allegedly assaulted and kidnapped his girlfriend (Google Maps).

Travis D. Tillman Jr., 24, faces charges of kidnapping and battery in Miami. According to an arrest affidavit obtained by Law&Crime, the incident began with an argument between Tillman and his girlfriend. During the altercation, Tillman allegedly “grabbed the victim by the arm, placed her in the trunk of her vehicle, and secured it shut.”

It is reported that Tillman then drove away while his girlfriend remained locked in the trunk. Upon reaching an apartment complex, he opened the trunk. As the woman attempted to exit, Tillman allegedly hit her multiple times in the face and body. Even after she managed to get out of the trunk, he continued to assault her, according to police.

After the attack, the woman re-entered the car with Tillman, and they left the scene. However, a vigilant security guard at the apartment complex located in the 7000 block of NW 177th Street observed the incident and notified the authorities. The guard also provided surveillance footage capturing the alleged attack.

The woman then got back in the car with Tillman and drove away from the scene, but an eagle-eyed security guard at the apartment complex in the 7000 block of NW 177th Street witnessed the incident unfolding and called the cops. He also showed them surveillance video of the alleged assault.

Cops pulled over the girlfriend and Tillman and arrested the suspect.

Post-Miranda, Tillman insisted it was the girlfriend’s idea to get into the trunk after a verbal spat.

“He advised that the victim stated that she did not want to be around him, at which point she stated she [would] rather be inside of the trunk and not in his vicinity,” cops wrote.

Tillman was taken to jail, where he is being held without bond. His next court date is set for May 6. The victim did not suffer any serious injuries and declined medical treatment.

Two months ago, the suspect was arrested for an incident last year in which he allegedly brandished a gun at a police officer on the set of a music video. He fled but was later arrested. He’s facing charges of aggravated assault, improper exhibition of a firearm and resisting an officer without violence in that case.

Dorit Clashes with Kyle and Erika Over Book Party Snub; Erika Unveils New Boyfriend in Fiery Showdown

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Dorit Clashes with Kyle and Erika Over Book Party Snub; Erika Unveils New Boyfriend in Fiery Showdown

The curtain falls on season 15 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, leaving behind not only a whirlwind of drama but also a question mark over some of the friendships. Dorit is taken aback by Sutton, Kyle, and Erika‘s decision to skip her book cover event, despite their ongoing tensions. She doesn’t hold back in expressing her disappointment. If even a grand event can’t mend these ties, one wonders if anything can. Are these friendships beyond repair?

RHOBH Finale Recap: Dorit Gets Into Heated Confrontation With Kyle and Erika After They Skip Her Book Party; Erika Hard-Launches Her Boyfriend, Kyle Shares She is Not Ready to End Marriage as Daughter Alexia Gets Married

While Dorit is hosting her event, Sutton is busy entertaining Erika over cocktails—a surprising sight given their tumultuous history. Sutton recounts her last encounter with Dorit, highlighting the friction between them.

But Dorit isn’t the only one facing challenges. Sutton is dealing with her own emotional turmoil after sending her youngest son off to college. Despite attempting to confide in Dorit, she finds herself belittled. Nevertheless, Sutton can’t help but wish she could secretly witness the happenings at Dorit’s party.

The event proceeds smoothly until an unfortunate mishap with Jennifer’s $40,000 purse. Meanwhile, Bozoma and Dorit are left speculating about Kyle’s absence. Bozoma is weary of justifying Kyle’s choices, and she points out that if Kyle truly cared about Dorit’s financial triumphs, she would have shown up. Despite the disappointment, Dorit still harbors a flicker of hope that Erika might make an appearance.

The party is going well until Jennifer’s $40,000 purse takes a spill and breaks.  That doesn’t stop Bozoma and Dorit from trying to figure out why Kyle chose not to attend.  Boz is getting sick of defending Kyle’s motives.  And, at the end of the day, if Kyle was truly concerned about Dorit’s financial situation, she would be there to celebrate her financial gains. But Dorit is still sort of holding out hope that Erika would be attending.  

Erika shares that she went back and forth about going to support Dorit, but once Dorit left her and Kyle in the Italian town + all the words exchanged at the dinner table + claiming that Boz treats her better = Erika opting out.  She has reached her limit and muses, “maybe PK isn’t wrong?”

Amanda, a self-proclaimed girls’ girl, realizes that this is a stream of revenue for Dorit, so she is happy to support her success. Amanda goes on to say how important it is to not rely on a man for financial support.

Before Dorit gets up to make her speech, she mutters that she is “surrounded by a bunch of f*cking c*nts.” Ooph.  Her two kids join her as she rambles about “grace and grit and choosing” herself.  Her children pull off the curtain and reveal THE book cover proving that Dorit is truly unburdened. Kathy jokes that this memoir will take the entire summer to read…

Dorit’s mind is blown that Amanda can show up to support her, but two of her closest friends cannot come to share this moment with her. FINALLY, after much ado, Dorit gives the floor to Boz, who announces her engagement. The ladies flip out over the ring (and the news) and Dorit is happy to share the excitement of the moment with Boz.

Kyle’s daughter Alexia’s wedding is impending and although it is such a joyous moment, the fact that she is no longer with Mauricio is weighing heavy on her. All of these big life moments happening are really rocking Kyle now that she is on her own. She opens up about her fears and worries and shares that she is not quite ready to pull the plug on her marriage.

The day after the book cover party, Rachel recaps with Dorit. Rachel realizes that Sutton, Kyle, and Erika missing the event was most definitely a statement. However, because Dorit and Kyle are not in a great place, it makes sense Kyle would skip the party. Dorit feels like Kyle always shuts her down any time she tries to have open dialogue with her. 

Dorit explains that she has a “deep pain in her heart” about the Erika of it all.  This friendship has been a decade long and Dorit wonders what she did to deserve the wrath of Erika (guess she forgot she called Erika a c*nt??).  Dorit muses that Kyle got in Erika’s ear and so therefore, their friendship is not as strong as Dorit once thought it was.

Kathy is having a garden party for her daughter, Nicky’s jewelry launch. The brand is called Theo Grace, after Nicky’s kids, and it is an EVENT.  Erika explains she didn’t go to Dorit’s party because she “didn’t want to” and Rachel lets her know that they were, indeed, talking about her there.

THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF BEVERLY HILLS Season 15 finale -Closing Chapters,” Kathy Hilton and Nicky Hilton — (Credit: Griffin Nagel/Bravo)

In the meantime, Boz tells Dorit that Erika went to Sutton’s house instead of her party and that Erika was trying to get Dorit’s attention. Dorit feels like what Erika did was the “ultimate friend betrayal.”

At Kathy’s party, Amanda joins Erika and Kyle on the sofa and shares that she went to Dorit’s because she is a woman who supports women. Erika FaceTimes her new man-friend John McPhee, and it seems like it is a hard launch.

Erika Jayne facetimes boyfriend John McPhee on RHOBH finale

Jennifer refers to the group of ladies as a “coven, a gathering of witches,” which tracks. And Dorit refers to them as the lion’s den, but corrects herself, claiming that she only sees cowards. Kyle audibly sighs when she sees Dorit making her entrance.

Boz gets congratulated by the ones just finding out about her engagement while Denise Richards chats with Dorit. Denise gives Dorit some sound divorce advice and then she dips out to go to Charlie Sheen’s premiere. It’s like she knew sh*t was about to go down…

THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF BEVERLY HILLS  Season 15 finale  — Rachel Zoe, Denise Richards, Sutton Stracke, Amanda Frances, Kathy Hilton, Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Natalie Fuller, Bozoma Saint John — (Credit: Griffin Nagel/Bravo)

Kyle breaks the ice and wishes Dorit well on her successful event.  She then goes on to say that even if things were great between them, it would have been a struggle for her to attend due to exhaustion (yet here she is at Kathy’s party, but I digress…). The fact that Dorit is not talking to her adds to it.  Kyle reminds Dorit that she always came to her defense, even when people said Dorit had a fake accent, but Dorit shuts that down, forcing Kyle to focus on the now.

Kyle cannot believe that Dorit is solely upset with her when everyone in the group has also said much of the same about Dorit’s behavior. Kyle lets Dorit know that she is not the enemy and demands that everyone speak the truth right now. Dorit claims that Kyle is getting a gang together to go against her.

Erika lets Dorit know she needs to tone it down and have a civil conversation.  She reminds Dorit that she called her a c*nt and that Dorit does not want to hear anything that she is saying.  Erika doesn’t want Dorit to keep giving it to everyone, but Dorit wonders who the real Erika really is.

Dorit refers to herself as a single mother who is hustling and reminds the world that she is looking for support during this trying time. Erika feels no remorse for skipping out on Dorit’s event and remains cool as a cucumber as Dorit reems her out.

Erika has most definitely gotten Dorit’s attention now-and it makes you wonder, who is the unburdened one now?? Dorit does not want this kind of friendship from Erika, and Kyle is over this unproductive conversation.

THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF BEVERLY HILLS  finale, Kathy Hilton, Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Natalie Fuller — (Credit: Griffin Nagel/Bravo)

Kyle worries that Dorit may lose all her friends when all is said and done.  She is tired of friendships being hard when she has other tough things going on.  Luckily, her daughter Alexia’s wedding was a bright spot.  Despite Dorit showing up for the wedding, it didn’t help fix the issues in their friendship Kyle and Dorit haven’t spoken since.

Rachel’s divorce is still pending and she is trying out a new romance, while Erika is also thriving with her boyfriend, John.  Despite the $25,000,000 trial looming over her, she is having a grand old time with her DJ career. 

Boz plans to have one more round of IVF while planning two different weddings on two different continents and  Sutton BROWN may become her official name in due time! Although Sutton may be struggling with her empty nest, there’s always her pets and Reba. Amanda is finally legally married, but is manifesting a big wedding and another NY Times best seller. 

Before the filming wraps, Sutton takes a minute to talk to Dorit. Dorit speaks so viscerally to Sutton and then she gives a fake-a*s apology. Sutton feels quite dismissed and she is over it, especially when Dorit tells Sutton to try to “wrap it up.” Dorit claims that what Sutton has to say is “irrelevant to” her and claims Sutton is now “out of lives,” aka she is giving her no more friendship chances.

Sutton tells Dorit that she has witnessed her treat her friends like dirt all summer, but Dorit states that she is not interested.  Dorit is on a mean-girl bender and can’t seem to stop.  She goes as far as mocking Sutton’s bow on her dress and sits smugly as Sutton leaves.

While Dorit’s divorce is still pending, she has lost more “dead weight” in her friendships.  For a woman claiming to be so “unburdened,” she sure is putting a lot of effort into these fights…Dorit claims the friendships are fractured right now, however anything can change.  Let’s see what the reunion brings.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE RHOBH FINALE?

Australia’s South-East Braces for First Chilly Mornings of the Year

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Australia’s South-East Braces for First Chilly Mornings of the Year
Australia‘s south-east is bracing for a chilly weekend as a cold front brings near or below freezing temperatures.
Weatherzone reports this weekend will see the coldest nights to date this year with Thredbo in NSW expected to drop to -5 degrees.
Victoria‘s alpine resorts could see temperatures plummet to -3 degrees while even Melbourne could drop to 5 degrees tomorrow morning.
The nation’s south-east is in for its coldest weekend of the year so far. (Weatherzone)
Liawanee on Tasmania’s Central Plateau will reach -4 degrees on Sunday morning, Weatherzone reports.

Meteorologist Angus Hines from the Bureau of Meteorology noted that some regions are about to experience their first truly cold mornings of the year.

“The combination of high pressure over the south and south-east, paired with clear skies and minimal wind, is set to bring some very chilly temperatures over the next few mornings,” Hines explained.

Canberra is also set to dip below freezing early Sunday morning, possibly reaching -1 degrees.

By Monday, this cold front will extend into the Northern Tablelands, affecting areas like Guyra and Glen Innes.

Despite the drop in temperature, Hines mentioned that the south-east can expect sunny conditions.

“It’s going to be a bright and sunny day, but temperatures will be significantly lower compared to what we’ve seen throughout most of the week,” he added.

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Gainesville Man Faces Arrest After Facebook Post Reveals Stolen Gun, Unveils Drug and Firearm Charges

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Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – A 23-year-old man, Keenon Jamal Richardson, was taken into custody last night following a traffic stop where authorities reportedly discovered a stolen firearm and 21 grams of marijuana.

On April 15, an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy identified images of a stolen handgun posted on a social media account believed to belong to Richardson. These images displayed a Glock 43X with a serial number matching a pistol reported stolen on April 12. The social media account also featured photos of Richardson at the Hidden Oaks Mobile Home Park.

While conducting surveillance at Hidden Oaks, deputies observed Richardson entering a black vehicle that subsequently exited the neighborhood. The deputy noted that the vehicle exceeded the speed limit, traveling at 53 mph in a zone marked for 45 mph. Additionally, the car lacked a functioning tag light and failed to stop at a designated stop line at 9100 SW 8th Avenue. At approximately 9:15 p.m., the deputy initiated a traffic stop and identified Richardson as the front seat passenger.

The deputy noted a strong odor of both burnt and raw marijuana emanating from the vehicle. The driver admitted they had recently “smoked” in the car, but neither individual possessed a medical marijuana prescription. The driver also informed the deputy that a gun was located in the driver’s side door pocket.

A probable cause search of the car reportedly produced about 0.4 grams of loose marijuana flower bud on the floorboard on Richardson’s side; a tobacco leaf product that contained raw marijuana and weighed about 4.1 grams in the center console; a bag of raw marijuana weighing 21.2 grams behind the driver’s seat; the stolen Glock pistol next to the marijuana, loaded with eight rounds and with its grip toward the front, as if it had been hastily placed there; a holstered Smith & Wesson handgun in the driver’s side door pocket; and an additional Smith & Wesson magazine in the glove compartment.

Post Miranda, the driver denied knowing anything about the stolen pistol or the marijuana.

Post Miranda, Richardson reportedly denied at first that he knew anything about the marijuana (except for a “blunt”) or the stolen gun and said nothing in the car belonged to him; he also denied posting any recent photos of guns. When the deputy showed Richardson the pictures from his social media account, which reportedly included his “clearly visible face” and the stolen gun, he reportedly changed his story.

Richardson reportedly denied stealing the Glock pistol; he said he had bought it from an unknown person on social media for $300 earlier in the day, and he posted it on social media “to see what he could get for it.” He reportedly admitted bringing the pistol into the car and said it had initially been placed between his seat and the center console.

At the jail, Richardson reportedly provided consent for the deputy to search his phone, and he showed the deputy messages that corroborated his claim that he had purchased the Glock pistol from an unknown person on April 15. Richardson said the seller had told him the firearm was registered in the seller’s name and was brand new, which the deputy said was corroborated by messages between Richardson and his cousin.

The deputy reported that during the search of Richardson’s cell phone, he saw that a video of a bag of raw marijuana had been sent to the driver of the car, along with messages that discussed low-level marijuana transactions. Richardson denied selling any marijuana, but he admitted that he had delivered marijuana to the driver of the car that day, and he reportedly eventually admitted that the bag of marijuana found in the car belonged to him.

The deputy noted that Richardson was arrested in August 2025 for possession of another stolen firearm, but he believed Richardson “probably did not know this Glock was stolen.”

Richardson has been charged with possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana, delivering a controlled substance (marijuana), and using a two-way communications device to facilitate a felony. Richardson has a juvenile conviction from 2019 and two traffic convictions; he was arrested in 2024 for aggravated battery of a pregnant victim, but the charges were later dropped, and the 2025 stolen gun case can no longer be found on the court’s website. Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $130,000.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 


Gavin Newsom Rallies Support Amidst Eric Swalwell Allegations: Urges Donations to Strengthen Campaign

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Gavin Newsom Rallies Support Amidst Eric Swalwell Allegations: Urges Donations to Strengthen Campaign

California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged his followers to contribute $35 to his political action committee in response to Rep. Eric Swalwell’s departure from Congress.

Swalwell, a Democrat, vacated his congressional seat on Tuesday following accusations of rape from a former female staff member. Additionally, three other women have claimed that he sexually harassed them.

In a fundraising email circulated on Wednesday, Newsom referenced Swalwell, who had been serving California’s 14th District in the Bay Area. A special election is scheduled on August 18 to elect his successor.

“The residents of California’s 14th District need prompt representation in the House, especially given the narrow Republican majority in Congress. I was determined not to grant Mike Johnson even a single extra day before filling this position,” Newsom’s email stated.

As reported by the New York Post, the email encouraged fellow Democrats to donate $35 to the Campaign for Democracy PAC, which is connected to Newsom.

Prior to the accusations against Swalwell, he was running in the gubernatorial primary and was quickly emerging as a front-runner in a crowded field.

Newsom had been silent about the sexual misconduct allegations until Sunday, hours before Swalwell withdrew from the California governor’s race.

‘As we continue to learn more, these allegations from multiple sources are deeply troubling and must be taken seriously,’ Newsom said in a statement.

California Governor Gavin Newsom sent out a fundraising email in the wake of Eric Swalwell resigning from Congress over the sexual misconduct allegations. He asked fellow Democrats to send $35 each to his own political action committee (Newsom is pictured with wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom at White House dinner for the nation's governors on February 24, 2024)

California Governor Gavin Newsom sent out a fundraising email in the wake of Eric Swalwell resigning from Congress over the sexual misconduct allegations. He asked fellow Democrats to send $35 each to his own political action committee (Newsom is pictured with wife Jennifer Siebel Newsom at White House dinner for the nation’s governors on February 24, 2024)

Swalwell has been accused by five different women of varying levels of misconduct, ranging from harassment to rape. He strongly denies the allegations against him

Swalwell has been accused by five different women of varying levels of misconduct, ranging from harassment to rape. He strongly denies the allegations against him

Newsom’s wife, gender activist and actress Jennifer Siebel Newsom, has not said anything publicly about the accusations against Swalwell.

Earlier this month, she implied that President Donald Trump was sexist because the two most prominent people he has fired so far – former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and former Attorney General Pam Bondi – were women.

Before Swalwell dropped out, Newsom refused to endorse anyone in the race to succeed him. He still does not plan to do so.

‘California has always benefited from a depth of talent and vision within our Democratic Party, and this upcoming race for governor is no exception,’ Newsom told the Post in a statement.

‘The field represents a diverse group of leaders who are deeply committed to continuing our state’s progress, and I have full confidence that voters will choose a candidate who reflects the values and direction Californians believe in,’ he added.

Privately, Newsom has commented on some of the candidates. According to CNN, he has said billionaire Tom Steyer would be too wishy-washy ideologically and believes former Rep. Katie Porter could cause a private sector contraction in California.

Swalwell, no longer a congressman or an actively running politician, has strongly denied the allegations against him and plans to fight them in court if necessary.

He is facing at least three different probes into his alleged conduct with women. A source confirmed to The Hill on Thursday that the Department of Justice has opened an investigation.

Pictured: Swalwell at a campaign stop part of his bid to be California's next governor on April 7, 2026. Three days later, the San Francisco Chronicle published an account of a former staffer who said Swalwell sexually assaulted her twice

Pictured: Swalwell at a campaign stop part of his bid to be California’s next governor on April 7, 2026. Three days later, the San Francisco Chronicle published an account of a former staffer who said Swalwell sexually assaulted her twice

Jeanine Pirro, the US Attorney for the District of Columbia, set up a tip line to solicit information about allegations against Swalwell. 

‘If you hear about someone who was allegedly drugging, choking, raping victims, who has lived in this district for a significant period of time, I would expect there would be victims who might have information,’ Pirro said in a video posted to X.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is investigating the allegation that Swalwell drugged and raped a former staffer of his after a charity gala in New York City.

And after a fifth woman, Lonna Drewes, came forward to accuse Swalwell of raping her in a West Hollywood hotel in July 2018, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed it is investigating the report. 

After 28 Years, Transformers Unleashes the Epic Return of Beast Wars’ Big Convoy!

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Optimus Prime has served as a muse for numerous characters throughout the Transformers series, including his Maximal successor, Optimus Primal. Yet, Primal is not the sole beast-mode Cybertronian inspired by the legendary Autobot commander. A recently unveiled toy pays homage to yet another “Big Bot.”

Flame Toys has introduced the initial visuals of the Furai Model Big Convoy, capturing the essence of the Maximal field leader from the anime Beast Wars Neo: Super-Lifeform Transformers. This model reimagines his robot form and arsenal, shining a light on this lesser-known character alongside other anime Maximals. Boasting over 200 components, this formidable figure is poised to be a standout addition to any fan’s collection.

Measuring just over 6.5 inches tall, the Furai Model Big Convoy kit offers a distinctly “anime” take on the Maximal character. Although non-transforming, the kit faithfully represents his robot form, one of the most memorable from the Japanese Beast Wars era. His robotic structure is adorned with organic features, reminiscent of his woolly mammoth beast mode.

Big Convoy Becomes a Mammoth New Transformers Model Kit From Flame Toys

Standing at just over 6.5 inches in height, the Furai Model Big Convoy kit is an especially “anime” reinterpretation of the Maximal. The non-transforming kit is based on his robot mode, itself one of the most iconic from the Japanese Beast Wars era. His robotic mass is covered with organic elements, with these evoking his organic wooly mammoth beast mode.

This can be seen through the tusks on his shoulders and the mammoth legs hanging off his robot mode legs, truly giving the impression that this form is a robot erupting from a beast. More than any other figure from Beast Wars Neo, Big Convoy was known for his many weapons, and the Furai Model version is no different in this regard. That includes adapting his biggest and most devastating armament to blow away Predacon enemies.

Big Convoy has (non-firing) missiles on his shoulders, furthering the idea that the outer shell of the beast hides a powerful robot underneath. Another weapon that’s reimagined from his original toy is his tonfas, with one for each hand included. Unlike the original toy, these are removable, allowing for more posing and action silhouettes.

There are also five different interchangeable hand options, with some of these necessary to equip to hold his weapons. Easily the biggest of these is the Big Cannon, which even mirrors the original toy by having Big Convoy’s mammoth mode trunk on it. Slightly redesigned, this gigantic firearm is definitely the highlight of the kit. It can also be held on his back when not deployed.

Furai Model Big Convoy is made up of 220 parts, making it a worthy challenge to construct the Maximal. Set to retail for $80, it’s sadly not going to come out for almost a year, with a current release date for March 2027. However, this is just one of the new Big Convoy toys of the 2020s, with Big Convoy mini kits also planned for Blokees’ Transformers releases. Meanwhile, the new version of the character for the Transformers: Age of the Primes line is already out on the market, making now the best time to collect toys for the obscure character.

Columbia County Candidates Share Insights at Thursday’s Forum

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Columbia County Candidates Share Insights at Thursday’s Forum


COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ga. () – In a spirited forum on Thursday, candidates vying for various roles in Columbia County presented their visions and priorities to the voters.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce organized this event, which took place at the Hardin Auditorium within the Evans Library on April 16. The forum was accessible to the public, inviting community engagement.

Here are some highlights from the candidates:

Gary Jones, Candidate for County Chairman: “With a 37-year tenure in law enforcement within our community and over a decade as the mayor of Grovetown, my goal is to lead Columbia County with empathy and attentiveness. I am committed to ensuring that every citizen feels empowered and genuinely heard.”

Cambry Wood, Candidate for County Chairman: “As a former United States Army engineer officer and company commander in Iraq, followed by a career with the Army Corps of Engineers, I have witnessed firsthand the neglect at the federal level affecting us locally. Seeing no one else stepping forward, I felt compelled to represent our community and advocate for change.”

Alison Couch, County Chairman Candidate: “It’s important for us all to be able to afford living here. One way local government can lower the cost of living is by lowering property taxes. As a member of the commission, and then talking with thousands of county residents in the last four years, I know this is important to the residents of Columbia County. “

Dr. Deborah Williams, Board of Education, District 2 Candidate: “I am committed to high quality instruction and academic excellence for every student and again, every student. Strong support for teachers, staff and school leaders. That we have safe, welcoming and nurturing schools.”

Michael Jordan, County Commission District 1 Candidate: “One thing we need to do is more research on data centers. Then we need to inform our residents on the consequences of increased more data centers.”

Alex Griffin, County Commission District 1 Candidate: “It’s going to be the job of the next commission to make sure two things happen. First, and the new commission, make sure those projects adhere to the data center zoning ordinance that was passed. And second thing is that next commission will be responsible, responsible for determining what to do with the additional tax revenue generated.”

NewsChannel 6’s very own Brad Means was the emcee for the event.

Photojournalist credit; Avery Van Dusen

Dunghutti Teenager’s Family Expresses Heartfelt Grief in Court Following Fatal Collision with Unmarked Police Car

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WARNING: This article includes the name and image of a deceased Aboriginal person.

The grieving parents of an Indigenous teenager, who tragically lost his life during a police chase, have made an emotional appeal for their suffering to be recognized as the officer involved faces sentencing.

Jai Kalani Wright, a Dunghutti teenager, was killed in 2022 while riding a stolen trail bike. On Friday, his parents shared their heartache with the Downing Centre District Court, emphasizing how their lives have been shattered by the incident.

During the sentencing hearing for Benedict Bryant, found guilty in November of dangerous driving resulting in death, the court heard poignant testimonies. Bryant had parked his unmarked vehicle in the path of Jai’s bike, leading to the tragic outcome.

“The court needs to hear what this has done to me,” expressed Jai’s mother, Kylie Aloua, her voice breaking with emotion. “He was my son, my light, and my future,” she added, underscoring the profound impact of her loss.

“Jai was the child who held our family together.”

Jai Wright
Dunghutti boy Jai Wright was much loved by his family and friends. Source: Supplied

It was standing-room only in the courtroom as family and supporters of both Jai and Bryant packed out the gallery.

Ms Aloua said she did not wish for Bryant to be sentenced to prison time, so his family did not have to suffer the same loss she was feeling.

Judge Jane Culver previously ruled Bryant should have known placing his car there without lights and sirens activated could have caused a collision that posed a serious risk to the 16-year-old.

After colliding with the car, Jai was thrown off the bike and suffered critical head injuries, dying at Prince Alfred Hospital the following day.

Jai’s mother, who still works at the same hospital where he died, said Bryant’s lack of remorse or apology was causing more pain.

“He deserved the chance to learn from his actions,” Ms Aloua said of her son.

Jai’s dad Lachlan also gave evidence of how his son’s death has impacted him.

“He was the second Jai I’ve had to lose … when I was 20, my cousin Jai was murdered,” Mr Wright said.

Jai was meant to be forever.

Bryant’s barrister Brent Haverfield is expected to argue the offence falls at the lowest range of objective seriousness and he should not be sent to prison.

However, crown prosecutor Philip Strickland SC told Judge Culver that Bryant’s driving was dangerous to a high degree.

Mr Strickland said a similar incident two-and-a-half months before Jai’s death, where Bryant parked his car across a driveway and caused a collision, was relevant to his moral culpability.

The verdict likely marked the first time a serving police officer has been found guilty for the death of an Indigenous person in custody or a police operation in NSW, the Aboriginal Legal Service said after the ruling.

Bryant’s solicitor previously indicated he would appeal the ruling at the first opportunity.

He will be sentenced at a later date.

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Latest Changes to the Illinois Men’s Basketball Team Roster Revealed

NewsFinale Journal
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Latest Changes to the Illinois Men’s Basketball Team Roster Revealed


CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Enthusiastic Illini fans are closely monitoring the shifts within the Illinois men’s basketball roster during the 2026 offseason, eager to see who will join, depart, or remain with the team.

After Illinois reached the Final Four for the first time since 2005, head coach Brad Underwood conveyed a straightforward message to his players.

“Please come back, let’s go do this again,” Underwood expressed in Indianapolis, following the team’s 71-62 defeat against UConn.

Now, the focus is on recruitment and retaining key players as they prepare for the next season.

Editor’s Note: This article was published and last updated at 11 p.m. on Thursday, April 16. Further updates will be provided as additional details emerge.

RETURNERS

Illinois has officially confirmed the return of four players from its 2025-26 roster.

David Mirkovic, Tomislav Ivisic, Zvonimir Ivisic and Jake Davis will all be back for the 2026-27 season.

Mirkovic was third on the team in scoring, as freshman, with 13.3 points per game.

All four of the known returners played more than 17 minutes per game on average during the 2025-26 season.

DEPARTURES

Illinois is expected to lose at least seven players from its 2026 Final Four team. There are three different categories of players leaving.

Graduates: Ben Humrichous, Kylan Boswell and AJ Redd have all exhausted their college eligibility.

Transfer portal departures: Mihailo Petrovic, Toni Bilic and Ty Rodgers have all been reported to be entering the transfer portal

Going pro: Big Ten Freshman of the Year Keaton Wagler declared for the NBA Draft, calling it a tough decision.

ADDITIONS:

The Illini are currently slotted to bring in five new players for the 2026-27 season, although that number can grow to fill the 15 player roster limit.

Similar to the departures, there are a couple different ways Brad Underwood is bringing in talent.

High school commits: Illinois has four high school players committed from the class of 2026. Lucas Morillo, Ethan Brown and Landon Davis are all signed. Quentin Coleman, a four-star prospect from Missouri, committed more recently and his signing has not been announced by Illinois Athletics.

Transfer portal commitments: The Illini have landed just one player from the portal so far in the 2026 cycle, but it’s a significant pick up. Providence transfer Stefan Vaaks will come to Champaign after scoring 15.8 points per game as a freshman with the Friars.

UNKNOWNS

There are four players from the Illinois team which made a postseason trip to Indianapolis in 2026 who are yet to have announced plans/been reported to be staying or leaving.

Andrej Stojakovic is the biggest name in this bunch. He scored 13.5 points per game in his first year in Champaign, as a junior, and previously made stops at California and Stanford.

Additionally, Illinois Athletics, nor major outlets, have reported on the future of Jason Jakstys, Brandon Lee or Blake Fagbemi.

Fagbemi, who came to Illinois widely assumed to be in a ‘walk-on’ style role, is seemingly unlikely to leave.

Jakstys had his sophomore season cut short due to injury after redshirting as a true freshman. Lee appeared in 18 games as a freshman, playing 4.1 minutes per game.

RECRUITS

There are two names, at this time, which Illinois has been widely linked to in recruiting for the 2026 cycle.

The first is Wisconsin transfer John Blackwell. He scored 19.1 points per game for the Badgers as a junior in 2025-26, and is reported to have been in connection with Duke, Illinois, Louisville, UCLA and others since entering the portal.

His dad, Glynn Blackwell, played at Illinois in the 1980s.

Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress has reported that Blackwell will announce his commitment on May 4.

At the prep level, Illinois recently hosted Zavier Zens for a visit. He is a three-star prospect in the class of 2026 from Wisconsin. Zens was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball as a senior, and is expected to pick between Illinois, Wisconsin and Utah State.

He was previously committed to Northern Iowa, and tells WCIA a commitment announcement could come as early as Friday, April 17.

SUMMARY:

Graduates: Kylan Boswell, Ben Humrichous, AJ Redd

Declared for NBA Draft: Keaton Wagler

Transfer departures: Ty Rodgers, Toni Bilic, Mihailo Petrovic

Transfer additions: Stefan Vaaks

High school additions: Lucas Morillo, Ethan Brown, Landon Davis, Quentin Coleman

Unknowns from 2025-26 roster: Andrej Stojakovic, Jason Jakstys, Brandon Lee, Blake Fagbemi*

Recruits: John Blackwell, Zavier Zens

Click here for more Illini sports stories.
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