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Liberal Frontbencher Urges Acceptance of Subpar Housing

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A Liberal frontbencher has acknowledged that the Coalition’s strategy to increase housing availability will involve certain “trade-offs,” indicating that low-income families might have to accept living conditions that are less than ideal.

Andrew Bragg, the Opposition’s spokesperson on housing and homelessness, revealed on Wednesday a bold plan to drastically cut the national housing code from 2,000 pages to a mere 80 if the party wins the election.

During an interview with ABC Radio National on Thursday morning, Bragg was asked if this policy implied that those with lower incomes should put up with inadequate housing. His response was clear: “Yes, definitely.”

Bragg further explained that the push to construct more homes under a simplified code necessarily involves “trade-offs.”

“Facing the reality of our housing affordability crisis, it’s crucial to prioritize having a house over not having one at all,” he stated in the ABC interview. “Hence, our focus must be on building more homes.”

Bragg’s comments follow remarks made by his Liberal colleague and treasury spokesman Tim Wilson, who suggested in some cases people could put “a jumper on in winter rather than spending huge amounts of money” on improving housing quality.

He told ABC RN on Wednesday there should not be a one-size-fits-all policy — such as mandated energy efficiency — for construction.

“There are some places in the country where you will get cold spells or hot spells for a very small amount of the year, whereas for the rest of the year, it’s not necessary,” he said.

“We have a risk that Australians can’t afford to rent or to buy their own home by the government’s own budget design. We need housing stock that meets different needs in different environmental conditions. Queensland is not the same as Tasmania or Victoria. Western Australia is different again.”

Proposal does ‘nothing to fix’ housing crisis, advocate says

Affordable housing advocates told SBS News that stripping back construction regulations is a way for developers to profit from “unliveable” homes.

“Too many renters are already living in homes that are freezing in winter, stifling in summer, riddled with mould and damp, and expensive to heat and cool,” Everybody’s Home spokesperson Maiy Azize said in a statement.

“Older people and people with disability already struggle to find homes they can safely and comfortably live in.”

Azize added that the government should focus on social housing that is “built to last”.

“We have a housing crisis because people cannot afford a home. Building more poor-quality homes does nothing to fix that crisis. It simply gives developers another way to profit from it,” Azize said.

Australian Council of Social Services CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie agreed, adding that construction of social housing should “drastically scale up”.

She described Bragg’s comments as shocking.

“The changes to the building code proposed by Senator Bragg would simply remove costs from the builder and move them onto the household – locking them into higher power bills for decades, deepening inequality, risking lives, leaving future generations with homes that are expensive to run,” she told SBS News.

The Housing Industry Association on Wednesday welcomed Senator Bragg’s announcement, but argued it was more important to disentangle layers of complexity than target a specific size of the code.

Cutting red tape

The national housing codes set minimum requirements for the safety, health, amenity, accessibility, and sustainability of certain buildings, as detailed in over 2,000 pages.

The Coalition’s new standards will focus on cost-effective structural, fire safety and health-related building standards.

Bragg said reducing the code has been a shifting policy for the Coalition.

“This was in Angus Taylor’s budget reply back in May, and we have committed to getting it to 200 pages, but we actually found a way to get it to less than 100 pages. It tends to be by picking up the New Zealand building code, which is about 80,” he explained.

Clare O'Neil standing in a hallway, wearing a white blazer.

While New Zealand’s building code appears to be about 80 pages long, the country has other compulsory building requirements on durability and energy efficiency, outlined in separate documents that builders must comply with.

Labor announced it would freeze the National Construction Code following its productivity roundtable in mid-2026.

Housing Minister Clare O’Neil brushed off calls from the Coalition to cut the construction standards to 200 pages earlier in 2026.

“I’ve talked to builders about that, they laugh their heads off. That is absolutely ridiculous,” O’Neil told the National Press Club in May.

The government is not far off presenting a final plan to the building minister later this year to streamline the code, Treasurer Jim Chalmers told ABC Radio National on Wednesday.

Bragg has also called for the creation of a federal pattern book of model homes that could receive automatic approval from the states and territories.

— With additional reporting by the Australian Associated Press.


5 Quick Chair Exercises to Trim Muffin Tops More Effectively Than Cardio for Those Over 50

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A fitness expert reveals five chair exercises that can outperform cardio in tackling the muffin top for those over 50.

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As people age past 50, it’s common to notice unwelcome changes around the waistline. This is often due to hormonal fluctuations, the natural decline in muscle mass, and increased time spent seated. These factors can lead to the formation of a ‘muffin top,’ that pesky bulge around the waist. While many hit the treadmills or cycling machines thinking cardio will shrink their waistline, this approach misses a crucial element. Though cardio is great for overall health and burning calories, building lean muscle and core strength can help create a more toned midsection.

The waist doesn’t work in isolation. Muscles around your hips, lower back, shoulders, and abdomen all play a critical role in stability, posture, and the appearance of your midsection. That’s why I recommend exercises targeting multiple muscle groups rather than just the abs. A well-balanced body burns more energy daily, enhancing posture and making the waist look slimmer without the need for endless crunches.

With years of experience coaching those over 50, I’ve observed that substantial improvements come from simple yet consistent exercise routines. The following chair workouts are designed to fortify your core while engaging your upper and lower body, fostering functional strength you can use in daily activities. By practicing these exercises a few times a week, along with regular walking and a balanced diet, you’ll develop the robust strength needed to support a healthier and more defined waistline.

5 Chair Exercises That Reverse Aging Better Than Cardio After 50

Seated Knee Tucks

Whenever someone wants to strengthen the lower abdominals without lying on the floor, seated knee tucks become one of my first recommendations. This movement teaches the deep core muscles to stabilize the pelvis while the hips and lower abdominals work together to pull the knees inward. I encourage clients to move slowly because controlling the movement creates much greater muscle activation than swinging the legs. Many notice improvements in posture after only a few weeks of consistent practice. It’s an excellent way to begin every core-focused chair workout.

How to Do It

  • Sit near the front of a sturdy chair.
  • Lean back slightly while keeping your spine long.
  • Hold the sides of the chair.
  • Pull both knees toward your chest.
  • Extend your legs with control.
  • Perform 10 to 15 repetitions.

Seated Cross-Body Reaches

Rotational movements strengthen the obliques, which play a major role in supporting the waist during everyday activities. This exercise combines controlled twisting with reaching, encouraging the core to stabilize while improving mobility through the upper body. I often include it because it feels natural and closely resembles the way people move throughout the day. Clients frequently tell me they feel looser through the torso while noticing better posture after several weeks. Strong obliques contribute to a stronger-looking waist.

How to Do It

  • Sit tall with your feet flat on the floor.
  • Extend both arms forward.
  • Reach one hand across your body toward the outside of the opposite knee.
  • Return to the center.
  • Alternate sides.
  • Complete 12 repetitions per side.

5 Morning Exercises That Rebuild Bone Strength Faster Than Supplements After 60

Seated Resistance Band Press

One of the biggest mistakes I see involves separating upper-body training from core training. Pressing a resistance band while seated forces your abdominal muscles to stabilize your torso throughout every repetition, creating much greater total-body engagement than isolated arm exercises. I recommend maintaining an upright posture instead of leaning backward because that keeps the core active from start to finish. Clients often notice stronger shoulders and a firmer midsection developing together. Functional exercises almost always provide the biggest return on your effort.

How to Do It

  • Sit tall in a sturdy chair.
  • Wrap a resistance band around your upper back.
  • Hold one end in each hand.
  • Press both hands forward.
  • Return slowly.
  • Perform 12 to 15 repetitions.

Seated Alternating Punches

This movement combines light cardiovascular work with excellent core activation. Every punch encourages the abdominal muscles and obliques to stabilize while the shoulders and arms remain active throughout the exercise. I remind clients to rotate gently through the torso instead of punching with only the arms because that simple adjustment dramatically increases core involvement. Many finish this exercise feeling energized while their entire upper body has worked together. It’s an excellent substitute for repetitive machine cardio.

How to Do It

  • Sit tall with both feet flat.
  • Tighten your core.
  • Punch one arm straight ahead.
  • Return with control.
  • Alternate arms.
  • Continue for 45 to 60 seconds.

5 Daily Exercises That Restore Arm Strength Faster Than Weight Training After 60

North Carolina DoorDash Driver Suffers Skull Fractures in Alleged Bat Attack

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“I suffered multiple skull fractures and brain bleeds,” revealed Christen Phillips.

This mother of three is now in the hospital facing a challenging recovery journey from a severe brain injury. Her nightmare unfolded while she was fulfilling a delivery order for DoorDash, when deputies state she was viciously attacked by a man wielding a baseball bat.

The alleged assailant, 44-year-old Stanley Shockley, is currently in custody.

According to the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, the horrifying incident occurred in broad daylight. The suspect allegedly pursued Phillips and savagely struck her with the bat just as she exited her vehicle to complete the food delivery.

The attack took place on a seemingly ordinary day, August 1, in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Phillips had come to a stop at an intersection, waiting patiently for the car ahead of her to move, unaware of the danger that was about to unfold.

Shockley was reportedly behind the wheel when Phillips honked her horn alerting him to move his car forward.

After the honk, the situation took a dangerous turn.

The sheriff’s office said, “The vehicle moved out of her way and began following her.”

Phillips arrived at her delivery drop-off point, carried out the order, and tried to walk back to her car when Shockley allegedly jumped out, attacked her with the bat, then ran off.

“He came around to my door with a small wooden bat or baton and beat me in the head and face with it,” Phillips said in a post to social media.

“I don’t remember it at all. I woke up an unverified amount of time later,” she said.

She was able to drive herself to a nearby hospital after the attack.

“I had multiple skull fractures and brain bleeds and blood and cerebral fluid draining from my left ear for hours. My cheek bone on my left side is also fractured,” she said.

The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Shockley was arrested on Monday in connection to the incident.

He is charged with assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury, records say.

Sheriff Chris Thomas said in a statement:

“We understand the public does not see what goes into every investigation and a case like this can make citizens uneasy. We appreciate the number of tips and leads the public provided us.

“Our detectives follow every lead, carefully work through the evidence, and continue to pursue answers even when the investigation presents challenges. Their hard work ultimately led them to identify a suspect and make an arrest.”

In a statement sent to Fox News Digital a spokesperson for DoorDash said, “What this Dasher went through is horrific, and we’re relieved she’s safe and on the road to recovery. We’re grateful to law enforcement for making an arrest and will continue to assist their investigation in any way we can.”

Mother Allegedly Overlooks Child Abuse to Protect Partner, According to Police Report

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In a distressing turn of events, authorities have arrested a Texas mother and her boyfriend after she turned a blind eye to his constant abuse of her young daughter to avoid his incarceration. This shocking development was confirmed by law enforcement officials.

The incident unfolded on Thursday around 8:20 p.m. in Spring, a community located just north of Houston. Jazmin Cisneros, 28, together with her boyfriend, 29-year-old Gerardo Gonzalez, arrived at a local gas station with a toddler who had suffered severe injuries, as detailed by Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

Seeking urgent assistance for the two-year-old girl, the duo prompted bystanders at the gas station to call 911.

Upon arrival, deputies encountered the child in an unresponsive state and immediately commenced life-saving procedures, holding the fort until paramedics arrived on the scene.

The critically injured toddler was rushed to a nearby hospital where medical personnel identified her grave condition, necessitating an airlift to another facility for surgery. As of Tuesday evening, she remains in critical condition, fighting for her life.

According to court records reviewed by the Daily Mail, Gonzalez allegedly admitted to hitting the two-year-old in the head multiple times, punching her in the chest, lower back and bottom, and stomping on her pelvis. 

The severe beating led to the toddler suffering a broken pelvis, lacerated liver and fractured skull, the court filing stated, adding that the child ‘is not expected to survive.’

Gonzalez was arrested on Friday and charged with causing serious bodily injury to a child. He was booked into the Harris County Jail on a $1 million bond, according to the jail’s records.

Jazmin Cisneros, 28, was arrested on Tuesday after allegedly failing to report that her boyfriend had been beating her two-year-old daughter

Jazmin Cisneros, 28, was arrested on Tuesday after allegedly failing to report that her boyfriend had been beating her two-year-old daughter

Cisneros's boyfriend, Gerardo Gonzalez, 29, allegedly admitted to punching the toddler in the head, stomach, lower back and bottom, and stomping on her pelvis

Cisneros’s boyfriend, Gerardo Gonzalez, 29, allegedly admitted to punching the toddler in the head, stomach, lower back and bottom, and stomping on her pelvis 

After a four-day investigation, police determined that Cisneros allegedly did not seek medical attention for her child after becoming aware that the girl had been beaten. 

The mother has not been accused of directly participating in the physical abuse.

Cisneros was arrested on Tuesday and charged with the same felony as her boyfriend. She was booked into the same jail on a $500,000 bond, according to the jail’s records. 

Prosecutors alleged at a hearing on Tuesday that the toddler had been physically abused multiple times in the past, but Cisneros failed to report any of the instances because she did not want Gonzalez to go to jail, ABC13 reported. 

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office stated that the case remains under investigation by homicide detectives. 

‘Our thoughts are with this young toddler as she continues to fight for her life,’ said the Harris County sheriff.

‘Cases involving children are among the most heartbreaking first responders encounter, and we remain committed to seeking justice on her behalf,’ the sheriff added.

According to court documents, Gonzalez has no prior convictions but has several previous arrests on record. 

Prosecutors alleged that Cisneros failed to report previous times that her boyfriend beat her daughter because she did not want him to go to jail. The mother is pictured standing in court

Prosecutors alleged that Cisneros failed to report previous times that her boyfriend beat her daughter because she did not want him to go to jail. The mother is pictured standing in court

The couple arrived at this gas station in Spring, Texas, Thursday night seeking help for the injured two-year-old. Police are pictured at the gas station

The couple arrived at this gas station in Spring, Texas, Thursday night seeking help for the injured two-year-old. Police are pictured at the gas station 

The most notable arrest was for making a terroristic threat against a public servant in Webb County, but the charge was dismissed in 2016. 

Under Texas law, causing serious injury to a child is a first-degree felony punishable by a minimum of five years in prison or a maximum of life in prison. The exact sentence depends heavily on court proceedings. 

If the toddler dies in the hospital, her mother and the woman’s boyfriend will likely have their charges modified. 

Hundreds Deported by Trump-Era Prosecutor from California’s Amnesty Zone

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Defying California’s sanctuary laws, federal officials have extracted numerous criminal illegal immigrants from local jails.

Under the directive of President Donald Trump, hundreds of criminal offenders were removed from what has been considered California’s “sanctuary state,” as shared by U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli this past Wednesday.

Initiated last year by Essayli, this operation proved effective enough to potentially serve as a model for replication in other parts of the nation.

“What we have here is a template for the rest of America, a successful approach encouraging states to release criminal illegal aliens to @ICEgov,” he emphasized.

Through this operation, a total of 362 illegal immigrants, who had previously been deported, were apprehended, reports the New York Post.

Federal authorities use illegal reentry charges to obtain warrants for illegal aliens already being held in local jails. The warrants require the facilities to transfer the inmates to federal custody before they can be released.

“We’re writing federal warrants in real time, so we can force jails to hand criminal aliens over to our custody before they’re released,” Essayli told the New York Post.

“It’s keeping bad guys from ever getting back out into the streets,” he added.

The operation covers Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.

During one recent operation at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles, federal agents took custody of seven illegal aliens who had been arrested on charges including domestic battery, illegal gun possession, and reckless driving causing injury.

Each had previously been convicted of illegally entering the United States and had been deported, making them eligible to face federal charges for returning illegally.

Among those targeted through Operation Guardian Angel are illegal aliens with criminal records involving child molestation and rape, as well as a man accused of murder.

One defendant, 70-year-old Mexican national Jaime Rodríguez Ladesma, was convicted in 2023 of committing lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14. He was deported later that year but returned illegally to the United States.

Federal authorities have also taken action against José Cristian Saravia-Sánchez, 31, a Mexican national accused of fatally shooting an Inglewood man who tried to stop the theft of a catalytic converter in 2025.

Saravia-Sánchez had previously been removed from the United States before returning illegally. He had also been arrested 11 times between June 2022 and August 2024, according to the report.

Federal officials said California’s sanctuary policies prevented local authorities from honoring an immigration detainer during his earlier encounters with law enforcement.

“The purpose of Operation Guardian Angel is to neutralize these sanctuary state policies,” Essayli said.

X users praised Operation Guardian Angel, thanking the Trump administration for targeting criminal illegal aliens in California.

New Jersey Husband Arrested After Wife Found Stabbed in Upscale County Home

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Authorities in New Jersey are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic stabbing incident that claimed the life of a woman inside her Somerville residence.

The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed that 46-year-old Alyne Espinal was found with multiple severe wounds to her chest, neck, and thigh. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her husband, 55-year-old Ignacio Espinal, was apprehended on Tuesday in West New York, New Jersey.

image shows mugshot of suspect

Ignacio Espinal is now facing charges of first-degree murder concerning the death of his wife. (Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office)

Law enforcement officers were dispatched following a 911 call received just before 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, which raised “concerns for the welfare” of a resident on Brookside Avenue.

image shows crime scene

Investigators say Alyne Espinal, 46, was found dead of multiple stab wounds inside a Somerville, N.J., apartment. (Reuters: Mike Deak USA Today Network)

image shows map location of incident

Investigators say a 46-year-old woman was found dead inside a Somerville, N.J., apartment with multiple lacerations. (Google Maps)

For the Somerset County case, the Prosecutor’s Office said in part, “The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records and analyze forensic evidence.”

Espinal is facing charges of first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and third-degree hindering.

Delta Air Lines Flight Faces Unexpected In-Flight Alarm Due to WIFI Glitch

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On Monday, August 10, a Delta Air Lines flight traveling from Las Vegas to Atlanta faced an unexpected interruption when an unauthorized Wi-Fi network appeared onboard. This prompted the crew to suspend the aircraft’s internet services to address the issue.

Delta Airlines assured passengers that there had been no breach of any systems, including the in-flight Wi-Fi, and confirmed that all the aircraft’s operating systems remained secure. This statement was shared with Fox News Digital.

Delta emphasized that the incident did not compromise the flight’s safety in any way, reiterating that critical operating systems remained unaffected.

The airline is undertaking a thorough investigation to uncover all details, a process that will require significant time. Delta has pledged to work with federal law enforcement and aviation regulators to ensure a comprehensive investigation is conducted.

Delta extended its gratitude to the crew for their professionalism and to the passengers for their patience and understanding during the incident.

As the situation unfolded, cabin crew members turned off the aircraft’s Wi-Fi functionality for about 30 minutes, according to Delta.

A Delta Air Lines flight takes off from JFK Airport on Aug. 24, 2019.

A Delta Air Lines flight takes off from JFK Airport on Aug. 24, 2019. Getty Images

No emergency was declared by air traffic control. The flight continued on to Atlanta.

The unusual incident has raised questions about what travelers should watch for when connecting to Wi-Fi thousands of feet in the air.

California-based travel expert Lee Abbamonte told Fox News Digital that seeing an unauthorized network on a commercial flight is uncommon, and that travelers should pay close attention to which network they select.

“I think that the unauthorized network appearing on a commercial flight is pretty unusual,” Abbamonte said. “I’m hoping this is not a sign of things to come.”

Social media posts about the incident claimed a rogue network called “Delta WiFi Fast” appeared onboard.

The posts also said several passengers onboard had attended a cybersecurity conference in Las Vegas.

Abbamonte said that when passengers are on a flight, it’s easy to get confused about networks.

“I think the passengers are vulnerable on an airplane because they’re a captive audience,” he said.

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Delta planes sit on the tarmac at
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Greoup via Getty Images

He encouraged travelers to connect only to the Wi-Fi network identified by their airline.

He also said carriers could help by making the correct network name clear to passengers.

“I think the airlines need to make an announcement. When the flight attendants go over the safety demonstration and all that stuff — they should add that for this particular plane route, this is the official Wi-Fi network that you should join and don’t join any others,” Abbamonte said, expressing his opinion.

He also said he believed that Delta’s decision to temporarily disable its Wi-Fi was an appropriate response while the crew dealt with the situation.

Despite the incident, Abbamonte said he would still feel comfortable connecting to Wi-Fi while flying.

“I would just double-check to make sure you’re on the right network,” he said.

AI-Sparked Tragedy: Teen Enacts Murderous Fantasies

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In a chilling turn of events, a Massachusetts teenager stands accused of a heinous crime that left his affluent neighborhood in shock. Seventeen-year-old Arjun Aravind was taken into custody after authorities allege he brutally murdered his mother and younger brother in their million-dollar Acton residence.

Police made the grim discovery on Wednesday morning. Inside the family home, they found the lifeless bodies of 45-year-old Sudha and 14-year-old Siddharth Aravind, both victims of what has been described as clear indicators of extreme violence.

“This is an unspeakable tragedy,” declared Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, expressing the profound sense of loss that enveloped the community. “It is an incredibly dark day,” she added, underscoring the community’s sorrow and disbelief.

Leading up to this crime, Arjun’s online behavior had raised red flags. Reports suggest he was engaging with artificial intelligence, specifically using ChatGPT, to concoct disturbing narratives centered around the violent demise of his family.

During a press conference, Ryan disclosed that Arjun’s internet history included interactions with ChatGPT for the purpose of developing “theoretical ideas or fantasy stories regarding the killing of his family.” This discovery paints a haunting picture of a troubled youth potentially acting out his darkest imaginings.

‘He was engaged in the use of ChatGPT to create fantasy stories, Gothic novels, creating characters asking what about this, what about that, which appear to relate to threats to his family not surviving,’ she said.

Aravind was charged with two counts of murder, along with two counts each of assault and battery on a family or household member and assault and battery, as well as charges of using a vehicle without authority and motor vehicle theft.

‘We know that kids will be seeing and reading about this, likely on social media, and we know that it is going to take time for the community to process this,’ the district attorney added.

Arjun Aravind, 17, allegedly turned to ChatGPT to create chilling stories about killing in the weeks leading up to the murders of his mother and younger brother

Arjun Aravind, 17, allegedly turned to ChatGPT to create chilling stories about killing in the weeks leading up to the murders of his mother and younger brother 

Aravind's mother, Sudha Venkatesan, 45, and younger brother Siddharth, 14, were found dead with 'obvious trauma' inside their Acton home Tuesday evening

Aravind’s mother, Sudha Venkatesan, 45, and younger brother Siddharth, 14, were found dead with ‘obvious trauma’ inside their Acton home Tuesday evening

Police found 14-year-old Siddharth dead on the first floor and his mother dead in the basement

Police found 14-year-old Siddharth dead on the first floor and his mother dead in the basement 

Aravind was taken into custody on several charges, including two counts of murder and two counts each of assault and battery on a family or household member

Aravind was taken into custody on several charges, including two counts of murder and two counts each of assault and battery on a family or household member

The grim discovery unfolded after Aravind’s father called police late Tuesday afternoon asking officers to conduct a welfare check at the family home.

The father, who was away, told dispatchers he grew concerned when a tutor arrived for a scheduled visit but could not get inside. He said his own attempts to reach family members inside the home also went unanswered.

‘The father began trying to reach people in the home in a variety of ways, and he was unsuccessful in doing that,’ Ryan said during the press conference.

Police arrived at the family’s Martha Lane home shortly after 6.30pm, where they found 14-year-old Siddharth dead on the first floor and his mother dead in the finished basement. 

Both victims suffered ‘obvious trauma,’ police said, but their manners of death have not yet been confirmed. Investigators are awaiting the chief medical examiner’s findings to determine whether a weapon was used and what type. 

The district attorney said responding officers were unable to find Aravind at the scene, but later determined he had fled in his mother’s 2014 Honda Accord.

A manhunt for the missing teen was launched Tuesday night before coming to an end in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

The Honda was spotted just 12 miles from the family home, when Wayland police found it in an Andrew Avenue parking lot while responding to an unrelated alarm at a business.

Police arrived at the family's Martha Lane home shortly after 6.30pm after Aravind's father asked officers to conduct a welfare check

Police arrived at the family’s Martha Lane home shortly after 6.30pm after Aravind’s father asked officers to conduct a welfare check

The district attorney said responding officers were unable to find Aravind at the scene, but later determined he had fled in his mother's 2014 Honda Accord

The district attorney said responding officers were unable to find Aravind at the scene, but later determined he had fled in his mother’s 2014 Honda Accord

The Honda was spotted just 12 miles from the family home early Wednesday morning

The Honda was spotted just 12 miles from the family home early Wednesday morning

Officers quickly recognized the license plate from a police alert issued just hours earlier, allowing them to take Aravind into custody without incident, Ryan said. 

During the press conference, Ryan said investigators believe the senseless killings unfolded sometime Tuesday. 

She said Venkatesan was last seen by her husband when he left for work around 7am, while Siddharth was seen at a recreation facility Tuesday before returning home shortly after noon. 

‘We don’t know anything else at this point as to the timeline,’ the district attorney said, noting that ‘the deaths occurred in a fairly large window.’

The double murder left residents of the quiet suburb stunned, with several neighbors returning home from work Tuesday evening to find police cars swarming the family home. 

Joe Galletta, 66, who lives just a few doors down from the crime scene, told The Boston Globe: ‘My wife was pretty shaken last night.’ 

Despite moving into the neighborhood only in April and never speaking with the family, Galletta said he and his wife frequently saw teenagers riding their bikes through the streets.

‘It’s a really quiet neighborhood, not really much activity goes on,’ he said. ‘It’s kind of like the Andy Griffith neighborhood.’

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said the teenager used AI to create 'theoretical ideas or fantasy stories regarding the killing of his family'

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said the teenager used AI to create ‘theoretical ideas or fantasy stories regarding the killing of his family’

Wayland police found the Honda in an Andrew Avenue parking lot while responding to an unrelated alarm at a business

Wayland police found the Honda in an Andrew Avenue parking lot while responding to an unrelated alarm at a business

Officers recognized the license plate from a police alert issued just hours earlier, allowing them to take Aravind into custody without incident

Officers recognized the license plate from a police alert issued just hours earlier, allowing them to take Aravind into custody without incident 

The double murder left residents of the quiet suburb stunned, with several neighbors returning home from work to find police cars swarming the family home

The double murder left residents of the quiet suburb stunned, with several neighbors returning home from work to find police cars swarming the family home

Join the discussion

Should AI tools like ChatGPT be restricted for teens after tragedies like this, or is the real issue elsewhere?

No further details about the searches were disclosed during Wednesday’s press conference, with the district attorney saying investigators were still speaking with grieving family members.

However, Ryan said Aravind is expected to be arraigned Wednesday in Lowell Juvenile Court on motor vehicle charges in a hearing that will be closed to the public because he is a juvenile. 

He will then face a separate arraignment Thursday in Concord District Court on the murder and other charges, since juvenile court does not have jurisdiction over them. 

Acton Police Chief Douglas Sturniolo revealed that Aravind had been reported as a runaway or missing child about a year ago, though he said the department had little contact with him afterward and was unaware of any previous threats.

The chief added that police were working closely with the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District, which plans to provide support to students, according to The Globe.

In a statement, the school district said mental health staff are available to provide support to anyone in the school community. 

‘This is obviously a horrific and tragic situation on many levels, and we are heartbroken for the family, friends, staff and others impacted by this,’ school officials said.

‘We have a plan in place, including counselors at the schools, to support students and staff during this difficult time.’

Toddler Triumphs Over Cancer: Unusual Symptoms Lead to Full Recovery

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Meghan Jenkins, often juggling her lively toddler Malachi, found her days filled with his zestful curiosity. A fondness for Miami Dolphins paraphernalia accompanied his fascination with dinosaurs and monster trucks, while he was just beginning to feel at home in day care. As she transitioned back to work after a year-long break, life felt hectic yet content.

Then, in March 2021, Jenkins started noticing something was off with Malachi. He appeared unusually fatigued and sluggish, coupled with a nagging cough. Her concern escalated when he vomited, and she discovered black stool during a diaper change. Alarmed, she hurried with him to the emergency room.

From that point, events unfolded rapidly. Jenkins recounted the overwhelming scene as Malachi was enveloped in medical wires, with talk of a potential blood transfusion echoing in the air. As hours dragged without clarity, her anxiety intensified. Ultimately, Malachi was taken to the pediatric intensive care unit where doctors conducted a bone marrow biopsy.

After much anticipation, a doctor delivered the news that would upend Jenkins’ world: Malachi was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

“In that moment of revelation, you find yourself questioning everything, even God’s plans,” Jenkins reflected. “Why him? Why now? was all I could think. Being still young myself and new in motherhood with my only child, it felt like life’s journey had dealt an unimaginable blow.”

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Meghan Jenkins’ son Malachi in the hospital.

Meghan Jenkins

What is acute lymphoblastic leukemia? 

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, or ALL, is a rare cancer that starts in the bone marrow, according to the American Cancer Society’s website. Only about 6,100 new cases of ALL are diagnosed a year, according to the American Cancer Society, with children under the age of 5 having the highest risk of developing the disease. 

ALL is a fast-growing cancer that results in the body producing immature white blood cells. Malachi’s white blood cell count was more than 10 times higher than it should be. The white blood cells were crowding out healthy cells, weakening his immune system and making it impossible for his body to fight off infections. 

ALL can quickly spread throughout the body and affect the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and other organs, as well as the central nervous system. Because the cancer grows so quickly, immediate treatment is key. 

Malachi was already “quite sick” when he was diagnosed, said Dr. Julio Barredo, the director of pediatric cancer programs at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. She started Malachi on chemotherapy immediately. 

Treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia  

For the first month of treatment, Malachi was hospitalized. The first weeks of chemotherapy are intense, so staying in the hospital is often safer, said pediatric hematologist Dr. Aditi Dhir. Malachi had side effects including nausea and fatigue. He regressed in his potty training. Jenkins needed to wear gloves to hold him because of his compromised immune system. The toddler milestones she’d expected to celebrate were nowhere to be seen. 

“There were days I didn’t even think I was going to go on, but I had to,” Jenkins said. “It was stressful. It was depressing, constantly being in there.” 

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Meghan Jenkins’ son Malachi in the hospital.

Meghan Jenkins

Still, the chemotherapy was clearly helping Malachi, Dhir said. She recalled seeing him run around the PICU within a week of starting treatment. Barredo said that Malachi handled the chemotherapy “as well as anybody could have handled it given the circumstances.” 

After the first month, Malachi continued chemotherapy at home. He took eight medications a day, Jenkins said, and spent several days a week in the hospital. Next came the “maintenance” phase, Barredo said. During this time, Malachi remained on oral medication and only needed to go to the hospital every few weeks, Dhir explained. The maintenance phase lasted for two years. 

Finally, in August 2023, “the storm blew over,” Jenkins said. Malachi was able to ring the bell that signified the completion of cancer treatment. 

“You can’t tell he ever had leukemia” 

Today, Malachi is a “very loving” 7-year-old who excels in school, takes gifted classes and regularly appears on the honor roll, Jenkins said. He still cheers for the Dolphins and plays with dinosaurs and trucks. He’s become a big reader and loves to share fun facts. 

Most importantly, he is in remission. With acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the highest risk of relapse is within the first year of completing therapy, Barredo said. Malachi passed that milestone with flying colors. There’s “some risk” of relapse in the second year, Barredo said, but Malachi and Jenkins marked that in August without incident. After two years, it “is quite unusual” for an ALL patient to relapse, Barredo said. Malachi has outperformed his initial prognosis, and the success of his treatment means “his life expectancy is like that of any other kid his age.” 

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Meghan Jenkins’ son Malachi after completing cancer treatment.

Meghan Jenkins

“You look at him, you can’t tell he ever had leukemia,” Barredo said. “For all practical purposes, he is pretty much cured at this point in time. … He’ll be able to do whatever he wants to do.” 

Malachi’s immune system remains compromised, Jenkins said, but she hopes to build it up so can have a normal childhood going forward. The family is looking forward to “finally blossoming” after the years of treatment and trauma. 

“This whole process was very hard. It’s still hard. I have moments sometimes where I’m in shock, like I don’t believe we went through this or this even happened,” Jenkins said. “But there is a brighter situation. Every situation doesn’t have this outcome. But there are brighter outcomes. There are happier days than just being in the hospital and being sad.”