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Hannah Ferrier’s Exciting Comeback: Aesha Scott Hints at ‘Very Special’ Return to Below Deck Franchise

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Hannah Ferrier’s Exciting Comeback: Aesha Scott Hints at ‘Very Special’ Return to Below Deck Franchise

Aesha Scott, the beloved star of “Below Deck Mediterranean,” is hinting at a must-see moment for fans as franchise alum Hannah Ferrier makes a surprise return during Season 11, which premieres this Monday night.

In an exclusive discussion about the much-anticipated cameo, Scott shared her excitement over reuniting with Ferrier, the former chief stewardess who played a pivotal role in welcoming her into the Bravo universe years ago.

“It was the most exciting thing ever because Hannah, my homegirl, was my very first introduction to ‘Below Deck’ in my first season,” Scott revealed to Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea.”

Scott described the reunion as a “full-circle” experience. “Having her come to visit me now, after I’ve grown so much in this space, felt like a truly special pinch-me moment,” she expressed.

The New Zealand native also highlighted Ferrier’s unwavering support and how she went above and beyond during the filming, underscoring the strong bond between the two reality stars.

“And she came all the way from Australia,” Scott shared. “She was there for, like, three days to cheer me on.”

While Ferrier’s return is expected to be one of the season’s most talked-about moments, Scott has plenty to celebrate off-screen, too.

The fan-favorite yachtie married longtime partner Scott Dobson in March 2026 after planning much of their wedding while at sea filming the latest installment of “Below Deck Mediterranean” — no easy feat for a bride juggling charter guests, crew dynamics and spotty Wi-Fi.

Now settling into married life, Scott told us the experience has brought the couple even closer together.

“This sounds so silly, but being married feels so amazing,” she gushed. “It’s honestly the first time in six years I’ve really been thinking of us as a team because we are such independent people, and I think that’s why we work so well.”

The reality personality explained that she and Dobson have always trusted each other and comfortably maintained independent lives due to her demanding work schedules.

“Because we give each other a very long leash, we have a lot of trust and we do live very separate lives a lot of the time,” she continued. “And that was totally fine.”

For more Page Six reality TV updates …

But since saying “I do,” Scott told Page Six that their outlook has shifted.

“Since we’ve gotten married, I just feel so bonded and feel like such a unit that now we are taking on a lot of joint projects, and we have so many joint plans,” she explained. “It just feels really special, like, Aesha and Scott versus the world.”

Dobson, meanwhile, remains her biggest supporter.

“He’s proud of me as his partner, he’s proud of me as a person and he’s just my biggest cheerleader,” Scott gushed. “Anything that I want to do and achieve, he’s like, ‘Great, how can we do it? Let’s go!’”

“Below Deck Mediterranean” airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo with new episodes available to stream the next day on Peacock. 

Car Crash Escalates to Carjacking: Man Steals Good Samaritan’s Vehicle, Say Police

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Car Crash Escalates to Carjacking: Man Steals Good Samaritan’s Vehicle, Say Police

A man involved in a crash in Deerfield Beach, Florida, allegedly carjacked a woman who stopped to help (WSVN).

A bizarre series of events unfolded in Florida as a 46-year-old man, Cory Coddington, found himself at the center of a chaotic spree, culminating at a Chick-fil-A restaurant. The Broward County Sheriff’s Office has charged Coddington with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault, carjacking, petty theft, and leaving the scene of an accident.

The incident began late Saturday morning on East Hillsboro Boulevard in Deerfield Beach, when Coddington reportedly crashed his SUV into a tree. Several alarmed residents contacted dispatchers to report the crash. Among them was Shyann Figaro, who witnessed the accident and approached Coddington to offer assistance, according to a report by local ABC affiliate WSVN.

“He stole my car,” Figaro recounted. “I got out to help, and he took my vehicle and drove away.” This unexpected turn of events left Figaro stunned and without her car.

After commandeering Figaro’s car, Coddington allegedly drove to a nearby Chick-fil-A. According to witnesses, he emerged from the vehicle visibly injured and covered in blood, as reported by NBC affiliate WTVJ. In an unusual twist, while at the fast-food establishment, Coddington reportedly took a french fry from a child.

Coddington allegedly drove to a nearby Chick-fil-A, where witnesses say he was covered in blood when he got out of his car, according to NBC affiliate WTVJ.

“A guy asked him, ‘Are you okay?’ and he said, ‘Does it look like I’m okay?’” witness Laurence Lebel recalled.

The suspect then stole a french fry from a child and said he wanted a milkshake, Lebel said. The child received a new order of fries free of charge — but Coddington was not done with his alleged crime spree.

He reportedly walked over to a gas station, where deputies confronted him. He was allegedly combative with cops before they took him into custody. Coddington was arrested and taken to the hospital for treatment. Deputies say they recovered more than 10 grams of MDMA, widely known as ecstasy or molly, from the defendant.

Lebel told WTVJ that after the incident was over, she found it amusing.

“We’re not from here,” she said. “We don’t see this every day.”

Alex Murdaugh Murder Retrial: New Judge Appointed After Supreme Court Overturns Verdict

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Alex Murdaugh Murder Retrial: New Judge Appointed After Supreme Court Overturns Verdict

Court overturns Alex Murdaugh’s murder convictions

Fox News correspondent Bryan Llenas reports that the South Carolina Supreme Court has overturned the two murder convictions of Alex Murdaugh, annulling his life sentences. The court’s decision came after it was revealed that court clerk Becky Hill had improperly influenced the jury with the intention of securing a guilty verdict to enhance her book sales. Despite this legal reversal, Murdaugh remains in prison, currently serving a 40-year federal sentence for financial crimes.

A South Carolina judge has now been appointed to handle the high-profile murder case of Alex Murdaugh, following the overturning of his convictions for the killings of his wife and son.

South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice John W. Kittredge issued an order on Monday granting Judge Debra R. McCaslin jurisdiction over all proceedings related to Murdaugh’s murder-case indictments.

The order empowers Judge McCaslin to oversee “any future retrial on the murder charges,” as well as to manage motions, jury trials, civil forfeiture actions, and other associated matters in the case.

Disbarred attorney Alex Murdaugh is shown arriving at a court hearing in Beaufort, South Carolina, on September 14, 2023, concerning alleged financial crimes. (Photo by James Pollard/AP)

The brief order does not set a new trial date or rule on any outstanding motions. Instead, it puts McCaslin in charge of the next phase of the case.

In a statement to News Media, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson’s office said: “As always, we look forward to presenting the State’s case in court as part of a fair, open, and transparent process.”

McCaslin, an at-large circuit court judge, was elected by the South Carolina General Assembly on Feb. 5, 2020, according to the South Carolina Judicial Branch.

She earned her law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1993 and was admitted to the South Carolina Bar that year. The Judicial Branch says she was also admitted to the U.S. District Court, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Judge Debra R. McCaslin

Judge McCaslin was elected by the South Carolina General Assembly to the Circuit Court, At-Large Seat-13 on February 5, 2020. (South Carolina Judicial Branch)

Murdaugh, 57, was convicted in March 2023 of murdering his wife, Maggie, 52, and their 22-year-old son, Paul, at the family’s sprawling hunting estate in Colleton County in June 2021.

He was sentenced to life in prison, but his lawyers later pushed for a new trial, arguing that the jury had been improperly influenced by former Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill.

The South Carolina Supreme Court reversed the denial of Murdaugh’s new-trial motion on May 13 and sent the case back to the circuit court.

Alex Murdaugh seated awaiting bond hearing in Richland Judicial Center Columbia South Carolina

Alex Murdaugh awaits the start of his bond hearing at the Richland Judicial Center in Columbia, S.C., on Oct. 19, 2021. He was indicted on Nov. 19 on 27 additional charges related to financial crimes involving nearly $5 million in stolen settlement money and law firm fees. (Lewis M. Levine/AP)

Murdaugh, a once-prominent Hampton County lawyer from a powerful legal dynasty, has repeatedly denied killing Maggie and Paul.

The pair were found shot to death near the dog kennels at the family’s Moselle estate, a sprawling property in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

A family photo of Buster, Paul, Maggie and Alex Murdaugh displayed in a courtroom.

A family photo of Buster, Paul, Maggie and Alex Murdaugh is shown during the murder trial of Alex Murdaugh at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro on March 2, 2023. (Andrew J. Whitaker/The Post and Courier)

Prosecutors argued Murdaugh killed his wife and son to distract from his crumbling legal and financial world as years of thefts and lies were closing in on him.

His defense team insisted he was a loving husband and father who had been wrongfully accused after investigators zeroed in on him too quickly.

Although Murdaugh’s murder convictions were overturned, he remains behind bars on separate financial-crime convictions after admitting he stole from clients and his former law firm.

Alex Murdaugh in tan prison jumpsuit being led out of Colleton County courthouse

Alex Murdaugh is led out of the Colleton County courthouse in a tan prison jumpsuit after receiving a double life sentence on March 3, 2023, following his conviction for the 2021 murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. (Mark Sims for News Media)

Prosecutors have said they intend to retry him on the murder charges.

Ben Stokes Challenges New Regulations, Casting Doubts on His Leadership in England Team, Writes Lawrence Booth

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Ben Stokes Challenges New Regulations, Casting Doubts on His Leadership in England Team, Writes Lawrence Booth

England’s cricket team had a simple directive after their victory in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s on Sunday: act sensibly. Yet, that guidance seems to have been ignored.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, captain Ben Stokes and bowler Gus Atkinson stumbled at the outset, reminiscent of the team’s previous misadventures last winter. For those following English cricket, it’s another exasperating moment, leaving many shaking their heads.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is currently delving into what transpired during the early hours of Monday morning at a nightclub near the team’s Kensington hotel in west London. Some details, however, have begun to surface.

In a twist of fate, Stokes is poised to pass the captaincy to Harry Brook. This move is notably ironic, considering Brook’s own incident with a nightclub bouncer in Wellington last November, which the ECB discreetly handled until the final day of the Ashes series in Sydney.

Even if Stokes expresses remorse in the coming days, his position as team captain appears increasingly untenable. His actions have not only embarrassed his employers but seem to ignore the lessons from the past. If this indeed marks the end of his tenure as captain, it would be an unfortunate and absurd conclusion.

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson broke the team's curfew just one match into the Test summer

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson broke the team’s curfew just one match into the Test summer

At least the ECB have come clean this time, as they failed to do with Brook, putting out a statement inside 24 hours of whatever altercation took place. There are suggestions, too, that their crimes do not extend beyond the curfew and the drink, and that Stokes and Atkinson were not the catalysts for the incident. The police are not involved.

And yet. It’s hard to react with anything other than despair at the idea that Stokes, in his first Test since the Ashes, and with English cricket making every conceivable noise about a fresh chapter as they seek to reconnect with their public, thought it sensible to break the freshly minted rules.

After his infamous night out in Bristol nine years ago led to a punch-up and an appearance in court, Stokes himself observed that ‘nothing good happens after midnight’. And so here he is, testing out that theory once more.

Atkinson, too, was part of an Ashes tour whose trip to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast was regarded as the best-organised part of England’s trip. He, too, should have known better than to disregard the plans that were put in place partly to help convince an increasingly sceptical fanbase that Brendon McCullum’s dressing-room places professionalism before partying.

England denied all winter that their drinking culture has gone too far, yet what are we to conclude when, only 166 overs into their international summer, they are making the same old mistakes?

Atkinson took seven wickets across two innings at Lord's but is now in hot water

 Atkinson took seven wickets across two innings at Lord’s but is now in hot water

Stokes, it’s true, has had a difficult few months, processing the Ashes disappointment and suffering a serious blow to his cheekbone in the nets. During the build-up to the Lord’s Test last week, it was the coach – not the captain – who did the heavy media lifting. When Stokes did front up, he wasn’t at his best.

But the answer to difficult times can never be to make life even more difficult. England had emerged from a tricky game on a tough pitch with the win they craved. Box ticked: now for The Oval. Instead, he and Atkinson have reopened barely healed wounds.

An hour or so after the conclusion of Sunday’s Test at Lord’s, Stokes told the media: ‘I probably won’t be real happy and smiling until I get up there and share a proper beer with the boys, because I have to come here and do this – no disrespect to you guys.’

No disrespect was taken. Clearly, though, we had missed the headline.

Unveiling the Mystery: Why the Cause of Death for U.S. Student in Japan Remains Unreleased

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Unveiling the Mystery: Why the Cause of Death for U.S. Student in Japan Remains Unreleased

The tragic passing of an Arizona student during a family trip to Japan has left many questions unanswered, as authorities have decided not to disclose the cause of death. James ‘Weston’ Higginbotham, a 20-year-old, was discovered lifeless in a mountainous region near Kyoto following an exhaustive search-and-rescue operation.

While the Japanese authorities confirmed there was no evidence of foul play involved in Higginbotham’s death, they have opted to keep the details surrounding the circumstances private. This decision has been reported by TMZ, leaving the community and his loved ones to grapple with the mystery of his untimely demise.

Weston’s mother, Nancy Higginbotham, shared the devastating news of her son’s passing in an emotional message on Facebook. “Our family is heartbroken to share that Weston was found deceased by a volunteer search-and-rescue group in a mountainous area outside of Kyoto. The grief we feel is impossible to put into words,” she expressed, encapsulating the depth of their sorrow.

His mother Nancy announced on Saturday that his body was discovered in a heartbreaking post to her Facebook page. 

‘Our family is heartbroken to share that Weston was found deceased by a volunteer search-and-rescue group in a mountainous area outside of Kyoto. The grief we feel is impossible to put into words,’ the grief-stricken mother wrote.

‘We are forever grateful for the time we had with our sweet, precious Weston, but cannot begin to understand what life without him will be like.’

Higginbotham said their family is ‘deeply grateful’ for everyone across the US, Japan and ‘around the world’ who helped ‘share Weston’s story, prayed for our family, offered encouragement and helped in the search efforts.’ 

‘The outpouring of kindness and support has carried us through the darkest days of our lives… Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. We will need them now more than ever. We will always love you, Weston.’

James 'Weston' Higginbotham, 20, was last seen in Kyoto on May 29. His parents revealed on Saturday morning that the college student was found dead

James ‘Weston’ Higginbotham, 20, was last seen in Kyoto on May 29. His parents revealed on Saturday morning that the college student was found dead

James (left) was described as being 'emotionally distressed' when he went missing

James (left) was described as being ’emotionally distressed’ when he went missing

He traveled to the country with family to celebrate his younger brother’s graduation, and was described as being ’emotionally distressed’ when he went missing.

He had last been seen on May 29 after his family had been ‘bickering,’ his mother previously revealed.

‘We had an argument because I was using ChatGPT too much to try to help us navigate the trip and find the best restaurants and do this and that,’ she told NBC News.

Nancy said her son, a biosystems engineering major at Auburn University, adamantly opposes society’s ever-growing reliance on AI.

‘We try never to use it and I totally agree with him. It was just a dumb, dumb argument to have,’ Nancy added.

The heartbroken mother said her son appeared ’emotionally distressed’ after their disagreement.

Higginbotham is a ‘pacifist,’ she explained before the discovery of his body, claiming that he will ‘retreat to himself’ when he gets upset.

Nancy described ‘bickering’ as normal to Fox News, with the family sharing twin beds in a hotel room for six days together. She said he ‘just needed time by himself,’ and that his ‘happy place is going on a trail or just going on a hike.’

His mother and father, Nancy and Keith Higginbotham, made an emotional plea last week for anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward (Pictured: James and Nancy)

His mother and father, Nancy and Keith Higginbotham, made an emotional plea last week for anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward (Pictured: James and Nancy)

James (far right) traveled to the country with his family to celebrate his younger brother's graduation

James (far right) traveled to the country with his family to celebrate his younger brother’s graduation

He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with a graphic on the back that reads 'Save the Bees', lavender corduroy pants, and white Adidas sneakers with black stripes

He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with a graphic on the back that reads ‘Save the Bees’, lavender corduroy pants, and white Adidas sneakers with black stripes

After his disappearance, James’ family was able to track him down on Life360, an app that allows families to track locations, Nancy said.

It showed that James, who also goes by Weston, was by a river, visited a few stores, and then boarded a local train before his location went ‘completely dark,’ she stated.

He was last seen alive on surveillance footage getting off a train at the Yamashina Station Tuesday morning.

On Wednesday, Nancy and her husband, Keith, shared a heartbreaking video on social media amid the search for their child.

The couple thanked everyone who had offered support for their ‘thoughts and prayers,’ with Nancy adding, ‘We truly feel them.’

‘We do feel the love and the support that you guys have given us and that the community in Japan has given us as well.’

Jenny Mollen Addresses Controversy: The Truth Behind ‘Creepy’ Photos With Her Son

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Jenny Mollen Addresses Controversy: The Truth Behind ‘Creepy’ Photos With Her Son

Jenny Mollen has recently come under fire for a social media post featuring her 12-year-old son.

Mollen shares her son, Sid, with her former partner, Jason Biggs, whom she married in 2014. The couple also has an 8-year-old son, Lazlo. In May, Us Weekly reported that Mollen and Biggs had decided to part ways after 18 years together.

The couple’s representative told Us at the time that, despite their separation, Mollen and Biggs are maintaining an amicable relationship and are committed to co-parenting their two sons effectively.

Prior to the announcement of their split, Mollen opened up about her feelings of being overshadowed in her marriage to Biggs.

During a May episode of the “What Matters With Liz” podcast, Mollen candidly discussed her experience, saying, “When Jason and I got together, I initially felt like I had a point to prove. I went from being the oldest daughter who had everything figured out to suddenly marrying someone whose career, in many ways, eclipsed mine. Everyone would say, ‘Oh my God, Jason Biggs,’ and I felt like a guest in my own life. It was frustrating to feel constantly sidelined.”

“To be the spare and not the heir,” Mollen continued. “It was like, ‘What is happening?’ I was the spare. I was the American Pie spare. I relate to [Prince] Harry. That drove me mad and I always had this feeling.”

Scroll down to learn more about why Mollen faced backlash for her post:

Jenny Mollen Faces Backlash Over Photos With 12-Year-Old Son: Controversy Explained
Courtesy of Jenny Mollen/Instagram

What Did Jenny Mollen Post?

Mollen shared two images via Instagram on May 25, which displayed her laying on top of Sid on a bed. In the pic, she placed her hands around the back of his head and lay next to him. Both of their faces were not visible.

In another image, Mollen lay on top of her son with her hands behind his head. Sid placed his hands in front of Mollen’s face, which covered their faces.

Did Jenny Mollen Remove the Caption?

Mollen has since removed the caption of her post, which still contains the two images, and instead included a period. Her initial caption reportedly read, “Your eldest son will be the most toxic guy you ever date.”

What Have Users Said About the Post?

Mollen’s upload has led to mixed reactions from users in the comments section.

“Saw the original post with the original caption. 😳 Super weird. And I have boys the same age. And yes we hug and cuddle but that caption was creepy AF,” one user wrote, while another added, “Hugging your kids: Healthy and encouraged. Calling your child your boyfriend and posting photos of you lying between their legs on a bed: Not healthy or encouraged. Your child is not your boyfriend. A boyfriend is a romantic partner.”

Others, however, defended Mollen in the comments section.

“What in the f***? She’s not doing anything wrong. That’s her son. That’s his mom. We already known she a lot and eccentric. I love her ❤️🙌😂😂,” one user wrote, while another added, “Jenny, it’s all good. You go ahead and hug your kids as much as possible!! Before you know it, they’ll be off on their own … and then you’ll have to get a cat 🐈!!”

How Did Jenny Mollen Respond to the Criticism?

Mollen vented about feeling like she was under the microscope amid her breakup.

“It’s like because I’m getting separated, because I’m not protected by the institution of marriage, I’m suddenly like a different kind of target in what I’m posting,” Mollen said in a statement shared via her Instagram Stories on June 1. “Like this is absolutely jaw-dropping. A photo of me hugging my 12-year-old child is getting ridiculed.”

In a follow-up post shared via her Substack, Mollen explained that the photos were taken “on a Monday night after [Sid] returned from a weekend away.”

Mollen then defended the photos and her controversial caption.

“The joke that offended people was: ‘Your eldest son will be the most toxic boyfriend you ever have.’ And he is,” she wrote. “Parenthood has demanded a level of commitment and self-sacrifice from me that, in any other context, would be considered pathological. I’d never accept this kind of relationship under any other circumstances. And yet here I am, jumping through fire, constantly striving for affection and approval, waiting by the phone for a guy who can’t even drive.”

Mollen added, “When my kids were young, I was so overwhelmed. There was so much they needed that it felt almost impossible to catch my breath. I spent the last decade begging for five minutes alone, only to get exactly what I asked for. And it has broken my heart. It will break your heart, too. Don’t let anyone shame you for holding on while you still can.”

Exclusive Footage: Coast Guard’s Forensic Dive into Seized Dinghy in the Bahamas Unveiled

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Exclusive Footage: Coast Guard’s Forensic Dive into Seized Dinghy in the Bahamas Unveiled

The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service has unveiled new footage from their ongoing efforts to locate missing American Lynette Hooker.

Last week, the agency spent four intensive days scouring the Bahamas in search of any leads. Upon returning to the U.S., they brought back the dinghy that Lynette and her husband, Brian, were using to navigate the Sea of Abaco when she went missing.

To enhance their search, the team utilized an array of specialized tools, including divers, remotely operated underwater vehicles, drones, and even a cadaver dog.

U.S. Coast Guard investigators stand on a boat.

On June 3, 2026, a U.S. Coast Guard boat crew, along with CGIS Investigators, conducted a search operation in the Bahamas, hoping to uncover any signs of Lynette Hooker. (U.S. Coast Guard / Petty Officer 1st Class Riley Perkofski)

Lynette disappeared in April during a boating trip with her husband in the picturesque locale of Hope Town, Bahamas.

He claims she fell overboard into the Sea of Abaco, as the pair navigated rough seas on their dinghy. He resurfaced; Lynette vanished.

photo shows divers next to coast guard boat

Divers with the Coast Guard Investigative Service search for clues in the search for missing woman, Lynette Hooker. (Petty Officer 1st Class Riley Perkofski)

The dinghy CGIS was able to transfer over to U.S. custody from Bahamian authorities will undergo additional forensic examination.

Coast Guard Cutter Margaret Norvell, which is based in Miami, was used in the mission.

CGIS is leading the investigation, and the agency investigates a wide range of federal crimes, including fraud, cybercrime, drug trafficking and homicides.

Authorities will release more information as it becomes available.

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Discover Which Devices Will Support Apple’s Upcoming iOS 27 Update

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Discover Which Devices Will Support Apple’s Upcoming iOS 27 Update

(NEXSTAR) – The season is upon us once more as Apple gears up for its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, where it showcases the future of its cutting-edge technology. Among the highlights is the introduction of iOS 27, the latest major update to its mobile software.

Last year, Apple made a surprising leap from iOS 18 to iOS 26, breaking from its usual sequence to synchronize more closely with the calendar year. This approach continues with the release of iOS 27.

What are some new features in iOS 27?

Much like the previous year, artificial intelligence, specifically Apple Intelligence, takes center stage in the upcoming iOS update. A key element of this focus is the debut of a revamped “Siri AI,” accompanied by its dedicated app. According to Apple, Siri is set to become “an even more capable AI assistant,” boasting enhanced intelligence designed to assist users more effectively in their daily lives.

Iconic Tall Ship Elissa Departs Galveston for New York’s 250th Anniversary Celebration

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Iconic Tall Ship Elissa Departs Galveston for New York’s 250th Anniversary Celebration

The renowned Tall Ship Elissa set sail from Galveston, Texas, on Monday morning, embarking on a significant voyage to New York Harbor. This journey marks a global celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

The Elissa, constructed in 1877, stands as a National Historic Landmark and a well-loved symbol of Galveston’s port. As the official tall ship of Texas, it hasn’t undertaken a long journey since 1986. Following extensive refurbishments in 2014, this Texas treasure remains one of the oldest operational sailing vessels worldwide.

The Elissa is set to participate in the Sail4th celebration, commemorating America’s 250th birthday. The majestic ship will dock in New York from July 3 to 7, taking a leading role as it guides other Class A tall ships into New York Harbor on July 4 for the milestone event. Organizers describe Sail4th as featuring an unprecedented flotilla of historic ships gathered from around the world.

Before making its way back to Texas, the Elissa will join an impressive assembly of international tall and military ships in Boston Harbor. It will also make key stops in Savannah, Georgia, and Pensacola, Florida. The entire voyage is expected to span three months, organizers noted.

Organizers said that before Elissa heads back to Texas, the historic ship will join a fleet of international tall ships and military ships in a gathering in Boston Harbor. Tall Ship Elissa will also make strategic stops in Savannah, Ga., and Pensacola, Fla., organizers explained, adding that the voyage will take three months in total.

According to Sail4th organizers, the event continues a tradition of milestone maritime celebrations, including the 1976 Bicentennial and the Statue of Liberty Centennial in 1986.

SkyEye13 was over the Galveston port on Monday morning, capturing images of the Tall Ship Elissa as it began its voyage from the Gulf before travelling along the East Coast.

Copyright © 2026 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Tragic Case Unveiled: The Fate of High School Student Austin Metcalf in Karmelo Anthony Trial

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Tragic Case Unveiled: The Fate of High School Student Austin Metcalf in Karmelo Anthony Trial

As the murder trial of Karmelo Anthony proceeds in Texas, jurors are gaining insights into the tragic stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf.

A pivotal piece of evidence emerged from the testimony of Elizabeth Ventura, the Chief Medical Examiner of Collin County. She revealed that Austin had suffered a severe stab wound to the heart, with the knife inflicting a “gaping” two-inch wound, as reported by Fox 7.

This case has ignited a nationwide discussion about whether Karmelo’s actions constitute lawful self-defense or murder.

Here is a detailed look into the Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf case.

What Happened to Austin Metcalf? 

On April 2, 2025, around 10 a.m., officers from the Frisco Police Department were called to a reported stabbing incident at a track meet held at David Kuykendall Stadium, located on the Memorial High School campus in Frisco.

An altercation between then-17-year-old Karmelo, a former student of Centennial High School, and Austin, who attended Memorial, ended when Austin was fatally stabbed, according to authorities. 

Witnesses told police that students were huddled under a Memorial High School tent to avoid the rain when Austin told Karmelo to leave the reserved area, according to a probable cause affidavit previously viewed by Oxygen. 

In response, Karmelo allegedly told Austin, per the probable cause, “Touch me and see what happens.”

Soon after, a fight began.

“Austin grabbed Anthony to tell him to move, and Anthony pulled out what [witness] recalled as a black knife and stabbed Austin once in the chest and then ran away,” according to witness statements obtained by Oxgygen.com, “Austin began grabbing his chest and telling everyone to get help.”

After he was stabbed, Austin fell down a set of bleachers and then got up, one witness said, per CBS News. 

“He lifted up his shirt where his chest was all bloody, and he said I think I got stabbed,” a student testified. “I think he said, ‘Oh my God.’”

When police arrived, Karmelo allegedly claimed he was protecting himself, according to charging documents, and later said, “He put his hands on me.” 

Then, when a school officer referred to Karmelo as the “alleged suspect,” Karmelo allegedly responded, “I’m not alleged; I did it,” according to the charging documents, “He put his hands on me. I told him not to.” 

Despite life-saving efforts, Austin died from his injuries. His father, Jeff Metcalf, later told Fox News that Austin took his last breaths in the arms of his twin brother, Hunter.

Karmelo was arrested for murder and booked into the Collin County Jail on a $1 million bond. He was released 12 days later on a reduced bond and was placed under house arrest. 

He pleaded not guilty, according to court records viewed by Oxygen. 

“We know this case has struck a deep nerve—here in Collin County and beyond,” District Attorney Greg Willis said in June 2025. “That’s understandable. When something like this happens at a school event, it shakes people to the core.”

A spokesperson from the Frisco Independent School District did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Oxygen.

The Families of Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf Speak Out

In June 2025, Karmelo’s mother, Kayla Hayes, addressed “lies and false accusations” about her family. 

“Our family has been under attack,” Kayla said during a press conference. “My three younger children, my husband and I didn’t do anything to deserve to be threatened, harassed and lied about…my husband had to take a leave of absence because he’s afraid [of] what may happen to our family.” 

She added, “Our son deserves the same rights under the law that everyone is afforded to. He’s been raised in a two-parent home with structure, stability, love and we put God first in everything that we do.” 

Meanwhile, Austin’s father Jeff Metcalf told Fox News that Karmelo “made a bad choice” and described his son as a leader who “lit up the room.” 

Jeff also forgave Karmelo. 

“Forgiveness is not for him,” he said, without mentioning Karmelo’s name. “The forgiveness is for me, so I can have peace. His life is destroyed. My life is destroyed.”

Inside the Murder Trial of Karmelo Anthony

The trial began on June 1 with jury selection, and opening statements and witness testimony occurred on June 4. The core of the case centers on whether Karmelo acted in self-defense when he allegedly stabbed Austin.

Karmelo’s defense attorney, Mike Howard, did not immediately return a request for comment from Oxygen. However, according to NBC News, he said in court that his client reacted to “fear and chaos.”

“After Karmelo defended himself with that knife, he ran,” Howard said. “He didn’t stab again. He dropped the knife. He didn’t stab anyone else.”

Meanwhile, the prosecution has argued that Karmelo’s use of force was unjustified. 

On June 5, prosecutors showed the jury the 5-inch folding knife allegedly used in the stabbing. 

“I remember people confronting Karmelo and saying, ‘You shouldn’t be here, you probably should leave our tent,’” a student testified, according to CBS News. “I also said you should leave.”

Added another, “Austin leans in to push him and Karmelo stabs him.”

The confrontation became increasingly aggressive, according to that student, with others testifying that Karmelo was asked to leave the tent as many as 15 times, per CBS News.

In Texas, 17 year olds are considered adults, according to the Collin County District Attorney’s Office. If Karmelo is convicted, he faces a punishment of anywhere from five to 99 years, or life, in prison.
 
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