Conexon Hyde, a prominent Beltway lawyer and member of the 9/11 Commission, died on Monday after the business jet she was aboard encountered turbulence while flying over New England. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident, which includes looking into a “reported trim issue”, and the FBI and FAA are also involved. The cause of the turbulence is still unknown.
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Mark Finchem, a Donald Trump-backed election denier, has been sanctioned by a judge in Maricopa County, Arizona for filing a lawsuit challenging the state's secretary of state race results without substantial justification. The lawsuit, which was dismissed in December, alleged misconduct by then-Secretary of State Katie Hobbs and claimed illegal votes were cast due to errors in the laboratory testing of voting machines and voting software issues. The judge's decision to sanction Finchem and his attorney is seen as a victory for those who believe in the integrity of the election process.
Danielle Miller, a 32-year-old Miami social media influencer, has pleaded guilty to five federal charges related to a $1.5 million COVID relief fraud scheme. She used stolen identities and fake business names to access pandemic-related financial assistance, which she then used to fund her own personal expenses. Miller faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, as well as restitution to the victims.
Justin Turner, third baseman for the Boston Red Sox, was hit in the face by a pitch during a spring training game on March 6th. He required 16 stitches and is being monitored for a concussion, but is expected to make a full recovery. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of wearing protective gear while playing baseball.
China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang warned of "catastrophic consequences" if the US does not change its current course, accusing the US of taking a "reckless gamble" in how it treats its fellow superpower. He urged the US to recognize China's "core interests" and "major concerns" and to respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Tensions between the two countries remain high, with the US accusing China of unfair trade practices and human rights abuses, and the two countries yet to reach a comprehensive trade deal.
This article discusses the recent intelligence briefing from the British Ministry of Defense which revealed that Russian reservist soldiers were ordered to attack a Ukrainian position with firearms and shovels. This is a sign of the increased close-quarter fighting which has characterized much of the war, and is a reminder of the long-standing tensions between Russia and Ukraine. Western countries are responding by increasing the supply of weapons and military equipment to Ukraine, as well as expanding training programs for the personnel of the Ukrainian army.
A Texas Game Wardens investigation uncovered an illegally kept alligator that had been kept as a pet for nearly two decades. It was returned to its original home, a Texas zoo, where it is now living in its new home. This serves as a reminder that it is illegal to keep wild animals as pets, and anyone who has done so should contact the local game warden to arrange for the animal to be returned to its natural habitat.
Four U.S. citizens were kidnapped in Matamoros, Mexico after their minivan was fired upon by multiple gunmen. Latavia “Tay” Washington McGee, Shaeed Woodard, Zindell Brown and their friend Eric were taken from the scene by armed men. The FBI is working with Mexican law enforcement to locate the missing Americans and is asking anyone with information to contact the San Antonio Field Office.