A massive blaze at a renowned tourist spot in the Dominican Republic has resulted in the tragic death of at least one individual, while forcing the evacuation of approximately 1,700 people.

Stunning video footage captures thick smoke plumes rising from a section of the Viva Dominicus Bayahibe resort located in La Altagracia on Friday.

According to a statement from the Dominican Republic’s emergency services, DAEH, 46-year-old Francesca Valentino from Italy lost her life in the incident.

DAEH also reported that three individuals required hospital treatment, while another six received care on-site. The affected people included resort guests, visitors, and first responders.

This $350-per-night resort is a favorite among American travelers, many of whom were part of the evacuation.

‘Preliminary observations indicate that the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable nature ​of parts of the roof structures made of palm, as ​well as wind conditions,’ the country’s Emergency Operations Center (COE) said. 

The fire was brought under control but its causes were still being investigated, the operations center said. Guests ​were moved to ​nearby hotels. ⁠

The Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace, part of the same chain, did not sustain any damage.

‘Tourist activities ​in Bayahibe and the surrounding area remain unaffected ​and ⁠continue to take place safely and as normal,’ COE added. 

Emergency services raced to the tourist hotspot, which is operated by Wyndham Resorts, as the flames spiraled out of control.

First responders said fire crews were deployed quickly to contain the inferno. 

Authorities said they were working to contain the flames to the area, fearing it could spread to nearby structures in the resort, according to Dominican Today.

One witness said on social media that firefighters were struggling to extinguish the fires. 

‘Although fire trucks are already on the scene, the magnitude of the blaze exceeds the available equipment and greater support is required with higher-impact units to fully extinguish it,’ they wrote. 

Video shows flames raging through what appears to be a thatched roof on top of the hotel. 

Fire crews can be seen dousing the building with water, but the hosepipe is measly by comparison to the structure. 

Dozens of witnesses gathered around to watch the ensuing carnage as the hotel burned. 

The resort is a popular destination for American tourists, who often share picturesque tropical photos of their trips to the island across social media. 

The hotel is described on its website as an ‘all-inclusive paradise’ where ‘the sun and moon set the stage for nonstop fun’, surrounded by ‘pristine white sands’. 

It offers a variety of entertainment, from restaurants and live music to sports like pickleball, paddleboarding and trapeze lessons. 

The resort spills out onto the beach, complete with a large pool close to the sand. 

It has also undergone extensive renovations in the past few years, including common areas and many of its food offerings. 

Famous for its clear water and white sand beaches, the Dominican Republic ⁠is the ​Caribbean’s top tourist destination, receiving some ​5.6 million visitors in the first five months of this year. 

Newly released bodycam footage reveals a harrowing incident where a Los Angeles police officer fatally shot a beloved family dog four times, much to the despair of its owner who witnessed the event.

This distressing video shows the tragic moment involving Jameson, a two-year-old Golden Saint Berdoodle, whose death has ignited a storm of anger on social media and led to an internal investigation by authorities.

In the footage, officers are seen arriving at an apartment complex in Canoga Park on a Saturday night, responding to reports of loud voices possibly indicating a domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival, the officers encountered Marie Marseille, a nurse with roots in New York, who was in the midst of celebrating the New York Knicks’ first NBA championship victory in over 50 years.

However, what began as a moment of joy quickly turned into a heartbreaking tragedy.

As officers approached Marseille’s apartment door, Jameson the dog poked his head out and barked.

Bodycam footage released by LAPD shows an officer immediately reacting to the dog’s size.

‘Put him away,’ the officer can be heard saying before cursing.

When another officer remarked on the animal’s size, the officer wearing the camera responded: ‘I ain’t gettin’ bit by that, bro.’

Marseille complied and attempted to secure the dog.

The footage then shows her step into the hallway, apologizing to officers, explaining that Jameson was not aggressive.

But suddenly the large dog slipped past her and entered the corridor.

Video released by LAPD shows Jameson running toward the officers as the confrontation rapidly escalated. The officer then opened fire four times.

Jameson can be heard yelping after the first shot, but the officer continued firing. In total, four rounds were discharged, according to the newly released footage.

As gunshots echoed through the hallway, Marseille let out a blood-curdling scream. 

The dog collapsed and died at the scene.

The release of the bodycam footage comes days after cellphone video showing the emotional aftermath spread across social media, generating millions of views and triggering debate about the use of force against animals.

In the viral footage, Marseille can be seen sobbing beside her pet’s lifeless body.

‘The Knicks just won a championship. We were just so happy. We were just trying to celebrate the Knicks,’ she cried.

Marseille has consistently disputed suggestions that Jameson posed a threat.

Speaking to Fox 11 earlier this week, she said officers arrived after neighbors reported loud voices.

‘I’m like, ‘Oh no, it’s just me,” she recalled. ‘And then they saw Jameson, and the one officer said, ‘Put the dog away.’ I was like, ‘Yeah, no problem.”

She said events unfolded within seconds.

‘The next thing I know, Jameson is lying on the ground,’ she told the station.

Marseille insisted that her dog had not been behaving aggressively.

‘But Jameson wasn’t baring his teeth, he wasn’t growling, he wasn’t aggressive, he wasn’t barking,’ she said. ‘He was just moving toward the officer.’

Police have offered a different account. According to a preliminary LAPD report, officials stated that Jameson charged toward one of the officers before the shooting occurred.

One neighbor was captured on video confronting officers after the shooting demanding answers.

‘What is the purpose of all of you? This is what we pay for?’ the resident shouted at the large police presence gathered outside.

The emotional footage quickly sparked outrage and heartbreak online, with many users saying they were deeply shaken by the video including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. 

‘What I saw on the bodycam footage is disturbing and tragic. The Chief and I agreed that it was important to release the bodycam footage swiftly. While the investigation is ongoing, I am very concerned about why shots were fired and Jameson was killed,’ Bass wrote. 

‘This shooting makes clear that while LAPD provides officers with written guidance on the use of force and pets, this is not enough. I have directed the Police Commission President and the Chief to examine the Department’s Use of Force policy on Dog Encounters to determine best practices from around the country, and use this opportunity to update the LAPD’s overall tactics, policies, and training related to use of lethal force to increase safety for everyone – officers, Angelenos and their pets.’

Other online users were equally appalled by the shocking footage. 

‘This is awful. I hope this woman receives support, understanding, and love during this time,’ one user wrote.

‘She needs to sue. Like yesterday. I’m so so so sorry, sweet momma,’ another added.

‘The way I wanted to run up n hug this poor woman the entire video,’ a third said.

A GoFundMe campaign established to cover cremation expenses and support efforts seeking accountability has raised more than $212,000.

The fundraiser describes Jameson as a gentle companion beloved by everyone who met him.

‘Anyone who’s met Jameson would tell you he is the sweetest boy in the world,’ the fundraising page states.

‘What began as a call for justice for one beloved dog has grown into a community united by compassion, accountability, and a shared commitment to protecting animals.

‘In honor of Jameson, our family intends to establish the Jameson Marseille Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals through advocacy, education, animal encounter training, rescue support, veterinary care initiatives, and direct assistance to animal welfare organizations,’ the page reads.

LAPD officials say the shooting remains under review.

Captain Mike Bland said the department expects its investigation to continue over the coming months.

According to Bland, the Office of the Inspector General is also conducting a separate independent review of the incident.

A Mexican national, who eluded capture for over ten years after allegedly murdering his wife on their wedding night in Illinois, has been extradited back to the United States. The FBI confirmed his return on Thursday.

Arnoldo Jimenez was brought back to the United States following his arrest on January 30, 2025. His capture was the result of a joint operation between Mexican authorities and U.S. law enforcement in Monterrey, Mexico.

Jimenez, once ranked fourth on the FBI’s list of Most Wanted fugitives, has finally been apprehended and is now set to face charges in the U.S.

“Thursday marks a significant achievement for [FBI Chicago] — our team has successfully extradited FBI Most Wanted fugitive Arnoldo Jimenez from Mexico,” proclaimed the FBI in a statement on X. “No amount of time or distance will deter the FBI’s relentless pursuit of justice.”

FUGITIVE ON FBI’S MOST WANTED LIST FOR KILLING HIS BRIDE IN ILLINOIS CAPTURED IN MEXICO

Authorities said Jimenez killed Estrella Carrera, 26, on their wedding night. Her body was found in the bathtub of her Burbank, Illinois, apartment on May 13, 2012, less than 48 hours after the couple married.

Jimenez was charged with first-degree murder, and a state warrant was issued for his arrest on May 15, 2012. A federal warrant was issued two days later after Jimenez was charged federally with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the killing or a date for his first court appearance.

Saikat Chakrabarti, a wealthy left-leaning entrepreneur, made headlines recently with his ambitious yet unsuccessful attempt to succeed Nancy Pelosi in representing San Francisco in Congress. Despite pouring nearly $10 million of his fortune into the race, Chakrabarti’s campaign fell flat, failing to take him past the primary stage.

Chakrabarti’s defeat was a sobering one, characterized not only by the unimpressive outcome—securing victory in just a single precinct—but also by the financial implications of his loss. As analyzed by Mission Local, the expenditure per vote was staggering, underscoring the financial blow Chakrabarti endured.

The former aide to progressive icon Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez managed to gather 42,049 votes, translating to a hefty $211.3 spent per vote. This culminated in an expenditure of approximately $8.85 million—a startling figure, especially when compared to his competitors.

In stark contrast, Chakrabarti’s main rivals employed far more budget-conscious strategies. State Senator Scott Wiener emerged as the frontrunner with $5.86 million, a sum sourced from both his campaign and external supporters. City Supervisor Connie Chan, buoyed by Nancy Pelosi’s endorsement, advanced with a relatively modest backing of $1.75 million.

Chakrabarti’s strategy ultimately yielded spending that was eightfold higher per vote compared to Chan’s, setting a city record for the amount spent per vote. Despite the significant push, the approach proved ineffective, leaving Chan and Wiener to contend for the congressional seat this November.

The unimpressive results clash with Chakrabarti’s explanation for his loss. In his concession statement, the flopped candidate claimed he couldn’t overcome “the 7 million dollars of AI, crypto, and AIPAC money that were put into this race.”

In reality, the endorsement of Chan by Pelosi and claims he wasn’t deeply rooted in the city hurt his bid, and his money did not overcome those hurdles.

Chakrabarti is still continuing to spend despite his loss. He endorsed Chan and made offers to about 220 campaign employees to work on her behalf, outlets reported.

Chakrabarti, a former Stripe exec, had staked out a lane in the race as the most left-leaning candidate, even appearing with controversial leftist streamer Hasan Piker.

Chakrabarti was best known for his tenure as Ocasio-Cortez’s chief of staff, but that stint ended after his spat with congressional Democratic leadership that included Pelosi.

With more than 95% of the votes in, he finished with almost 18% of the vote share in this month’s primary. Wiener had almost 41% while Chan had 30%.

Deidre Hall ‘slapped’ Craig Melvin during a live TV interview on the Today show, but it was done all in jest.

The iconic star of “Days of Our Lives,” known for her portrayal of Marlena Evans on the beloved soap opera, recently reenacted a classic dramatic slap, reminiscent of her character’s fiery reactions when provoked by allies and adversaries alike.

Hall, now 78, extended a warm invitation to Ryan Gosling, who accepted and paid a visit to the “Days of Our Lives” set. She appeared on the “Today” show last Friday to commemorate her remarkable 50-year tenure on the storied series, renowned for its intense plot twists, romantic escapades, and familial dramas unfolding in the fictional Midwestern locale of Salem.

During her appearance, host Craig Melvin highlighted her reputation, not only among fans but also within the talk show circuit, as one of the most renowned ‘slappers’ in the annals of soap operas.

“Out of all the storylines you’ve been involved in over the years, your slapping scenes are a personal favorite of mine. You’re an exceptional slapper,” Melvin praised the seasoned actress.

“Well, thank you,” Hall replied with a lighthearted smile.

Deidre Hall ‘slapped’ Craig Melvin during a live TV interview on the Today show, but it was done all in jest

Melvin brought up Hall’s reputation as one of best ‘slappers’ in soap opera history and said, ‘It would be one of the greatest professional honors of my life if you could slap me’

While Hall ‘couldn’t begin to imagine’ how many people she’s slapped on the show, the central and manipulative characters John Black (played by the late Drake Hogestyn, who died in September 2024), Andre DiMera (played by Thaao Penghlis) and Kristen DiMera (alternately played by Eileen Davidson and Stacy Haiduk), have been frequent recipients of Marlena’s legendary slap, along with Marlena’s own children.

Melvin, 47, got the audience excited when he told Hall: ‘It would be one of the greatest professional honors of my life if you could slap me.’

‘I would be privileged to slap you!’ the acting legend replied.

Melvin added that he had only one wish, that Hall not ‘hurt the money maker.’

They stood up and Hall explained in detail how the stunt would be carried out.

‘I’m going to draw my hand back and I’m going to come very close to your face,’ she told him. ‘And when you feel that happen, you’re going to snap your head.’

After Melvin assured he was ready, Hall swung her hand at his face and the TV host threw back his head and put his hand to his cheek, pretending to be in pain.

‘I’m sorry, I meant to miss but I…,’ Hall joked.

‘I would be privileged to slap you!’ the acting legend replied; Hall is pictured in October 2025

While Hall ‘couldn’t begin to imagine’ how many people she’s slapped as Marlena Evans on Days of Our Lives, John Black (played by the late Drake Hogestyn, who died in September 2024) was one of the many recipients of her character’s stinging slaps

Hall also spoke about the 50 years she’s been on the long-running show, calling it a ‘thrill’

Clearly, they were both amused by the stunt and started laughing.

‘You’re the best,’ Melvin told the star.

Elsewhere during the interview, Hall, who joined Days of Our Lives in 1976, shared how she almost turned down the role because she mistakenly believed she wasn’t their first choice.

‘I had read the script and I wanted it so much,’ she remembered, adding that when her agent called, ‘I thought, “Oh, everybody else must have turned it down.” Because I’m no dummy, I turned it down too because I thought there must be something wrong with the part!’

She learned from her agent just weeks later that was not the case at all.

‘He said, “You actors are just so crazy. You’re their first choice,”‘ Hall recalled. ‘I said, “Tell them I’ll be there.”‘

Days of Our Lives has been going strong since it first started airing in November 1965.

When Melvin asked what has captivated people about the soap opera for so long, Hall replied: ‘I think our writers and Ken Corday, our showrunner, have cracked the code on [whether it’s] a new love story, sometimes a jeopardy story, when young couples make magic together, put them up in front. They just know that the audience is going to find it compelling and irresistible.

Hall’s invitation to Oscar nominee Ryan Gosling was also mentioned on Friday

In March, Gosling told her in a video posted to social media: ‘I will be there to thank you in person for being my OG acting inspiration,’ and on Friday Hall admitted she was ‘stunned’ and ‘beyond flattered’ by his ‘lovely gesture’

‘The fact that we stayed on the air is a thrill. We kept on going and going and going and I got to stay … and keep working,’ she said.

Hall also heaped praise on Ryan Gosling, who recently accepted her invitation to visit the Days of Our Lives set.

In March, the three-time Oscar-nominee told her in a video posted to social media. 

‘I will be there to thank you in person for being my OG acting inspiration,’ Gosling said. ‘It wasn’t Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront. It wasn’t DeNiro in Taxi Driver. It was you.’

Hall told Melvin on Friday: ‘I was stunned. His work is so impeccable and he’s so honest and so clean in his work, that I thought, “Oh my gosh, what is he seeing? I don’t want to let him down.” But what a lovely gesture and I’m beyond flattered.’

EMERYVILLE, Calif. — The eagerly awaited “Toy Story 5” hit theaters this Friday, adding a new chapter to the cherished animated series and shining a spotlight on the fan-favorite character Jessie.

Karina Nova, anchor for ABC7 Eyewitness News, caught up with Pixar filmmaker and storyboard artist Kenna Harris. They delved into the film’s creative evolution and explained why Jessie takes center stage in this installment.

“From the first draft, Jessie was always meant to be the heart of the film,” Harris explained. “When Andrew Stanton was queried about directing a Toy Story movie, his first thought was to have Jessie as the sheriff of the room. Offering her perspective feels invigorating, and we believed there was more emotional depth to explore with her. He also saw an intriguing dynamic between gadgets and toys,” Harris added.

For Harris, this project holds a special significance. Recalling their first cinematic experience with “Toy Story 2,” Harris shared how it ignited a lifelong admiration for Jessie.

“Since childhood, I found myself constantly sketching her, many times envisioning her in the window. It’s always felt like a part of me, and now being involved in a film that highlights the character I adore most from the series is truly surreal,” Harris reflected.

Jessie’s evolution is also reflected in archival materials preserved by Pixar. Senior Manager of Pixar Living Archives Juliet Roth highlighted how the character has changed over time.

“She’s had quite an evolution, even her behavior, mannerisms; she tells her origin story,” Roth said.

Roth added, “Jessie has a badge now, and she has total confidence about her.”

The film introduces new elements alongside returning characters, including a potty-training toy named Smarty Pants. Roth described the development process behind the character’s design and personality.

“This one is a bunch of notes; there are words, there’s scribble scrabble while also being this very specific character we can identify, Conan O’Brien… that’s right, his swoop,” Roth said.

“Toy Story 5” also features a central conflict between traditional toys and modern technology, embodied by a smart tablet antagonist named Lillypad.

Harris said exploring that dynamic proved challenging during development.

“An early discovery we had in the film was that there’s no competition. Tech just wins automatically. There’s no choice for the toys but to lie down in defeat and have Lillypad walk all over them in their lives,” Harris said.

They added that the filmmakers ultimately reframed the conflict around a broader theme.

“And it started to unlock… well, maybe what we’re talking about here is connection. We’re talking about how toys and devices can lead to connection with children. Maybe one is more authentic than the other,” Harris said.

“Toy Story 5” is now playing in theaters.

Disney is the parent company of Pixar and this station.

In a disturbing breach of safety measures, a twice-deported immigrant with an extensive criminal record has been charged for piloting a drone over restricted airspace during the FIFA Fan Festival in Atlanta. The incident unfolded on June 12 near Centennial Olympic Park, the site of the festival.

Lorenzo Rojas-Martinez, according to federal prosecutors, operated the drone from a nearby parking lot and captured video footage of the festivities. This activity was expressly forbidden due to the airspace restrictions enforced during the 2026 FIFA Fan Festival.

FBI agents confronted Rojas-Martinez, who had been deported twice previously. When asked for his identification, it was revealed that he was living illegally in the U.S., which led to his immediate arrest. He was then transferred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) the next day.

The former Rookie of the Year from the Liberty is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, thanks to a strategic career shift, a national championship, and newfound consistency.

Michaela Onyenwere, now playing as a forward for the Mystics, was initially selected as the sixth overall draft pick by New York in 2021. Her impressive first season saw her clinch the Rookie of the Year title with an average of 8.6 points per game over 32 appearances, 29 of which were starts. However, her sophomore season did not mirror her debut success; she started only once and her scoring average was halved.

After parting ways with the Liberty, Onyenwere navigated the league before receiving a call from the UCLA women’s basketball head coach, who offered her an assistant coaching role for the 2025-26 season.

“If you had asked me a year ago about coaching, I would have outright dismissed the idea,” Onyenwere shared with The Post before Friday’s matchup against the Liberty at Barclays Center. “This opportunity was incredible. My love for UCLA is unwavering—I would choose it every time.”

At just 26, Onyenwere infused the Bruins with her professional insights, guiding them to their inaugural national championship. Her role at UCLA earned her $205,000, as reported by Front Office Sports, surpassing her previous WNBA salary.

Under the league’s new CBA, Onyenwere signed a two-year deal worth over $1.4 million with the Mystics and became teammates with her former player, Lauren Betts. 

Onyenwere came to Washington simply for an opportunity to contribute consistently, unlike in her other league years. It has seemingly made the difference. 

Going into Friday, the forward was averaging a career-high 12.7 points on a 54 percent clip from the field across nine games, all of which she has started. 

“I’m really grateful for my journey but it would be nice to have something consistent,” she said. “I think that’s all just the consistency of knowing what my coaches want from me, what my teammates expect from me, and just having confidence in it.” 

The Colorado native said coming back to New York will “always be home.” 

Yet, after several years since her rookie debut, Friday will just be “another game” for her. 

The Liberty, who clinched their spot in the Commissioner’s Cup final Sunday, learned Thursday they will host the Aces for the title game on June 30 at Barclays Center. 

“It means a lot to have that opportunity to have a chance at a trophy in the middle of the season in front of our fans,” head coach Chris DeMarco said. 

Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (left knee management) was out for Friday’s game after she received an injection in her surgically repaired left knee this week. Coach Chris DeMarco wanted to give her “one more day” and hoped she will play on the upcoming West Coast road trip.