Stories from United States

Small business owners in the New Orleans area are increasingly resisting takeover attempts from private equity firms. Business owner Craig Jackamind is actively encouraging local operators to pursue local partnerships instead of selling to external buyers. The movement aims to protect staff and the wider community from the effects of private equity ownership. This backlash is reportedly creating new opportunities for smaller-scale financiers.

A suspect brandished a knife during a White House press corps event at a hotel in Washington D.C. Authorities are currently investigating the motives behind the attack. The suspect is a teacher from Cali who traveled via train to Chicago before reaching Washington D.C. Suspect identified as 31-year-old California teacher Colo Tomas Allen, who is currently not cooperating with investigators. US President Donald Trump stated he was the target of a would-be assassin after the man attempted to rush a security checkpoint. One security service agent sustained minor injuries during the incident. Weapons used in the incident included rifles, pistols, and knives. A suspect identified as 'Coal' has been named in connection with the shooting incident. Witnesses reported uncertainty regarding a potential second shooter and noted the suspect was shot at close range despite wearing a bulletproof vest.

The EPA, FBI, CISA, and NSA issued a joint cybersecurity advisory regarding Iranian-affiliated cyber threats targeting water systems. The advisory warns of potential risks to critical infrastructure security. The advisory follows reports of escalating AI-enabled threats to critical infrastructure.

An overturned fuel tanker has shut down all lanes of Interstate 91 East at the 605 interchange in Cerritos, California. Traffic is being diverted onto the 605 north and south. delays are reported from Bellflower Boulevard. Authorities are implementing traffic breaks to manage the congestion. A big rig tipped over and went over the side of the freeway on the 10 West connector to the 57 North and South. The transition road remains closed until a large tow truck can upright and remove the vehicle. All lanes are currently shut down for a major cleanup operation. Drivers are advised to use Artesia Boulevard to bypass the closure. A charter bus traveling from New York to Washington D.C. overturned on Route 295 near Laurel, Maryland. There were 40 people on board, with 32 transported to hospitals. Two individuals are in serious condition.

The Chicago Cubs suffered a 12-4 defeat against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Starting pitcher Colin Ray struggled during the matchup, surrendering six earned runs over three innings. The Cubs' bullpen depth was cited as a contributing factor to the loss. The game took place in Los Angeles. Cubs pitcher Tavi Assad allowed six earned runs in just over two innings of work. The Cubs are looking to win the series this afternoon with Shota and Managa scheduled to pitch. The loss follows a difficult performance against the Dodgers' top lineup. The White Sox also saw their two-game winning streak snapped.

The total number of bankruptcy filings has reached 591,850. This figure represents the largest number of bankruptcies filed in the recorded period. Total US business bankruptcies reached 591,850 for the previous year. This represents an increase of nearly 63,000 filings compared to 2025. The surge comes amid mounting financial pressures. This figure represents the largest volume of bankruptcies recorded since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Warner Bros Discovery shareholders have approved a merger with Paramount Skydance. Paramount is set to acquire the company in its entirety, including its film studio, cable networks, and streaming services. The acquisition deal is valued at $31 per share. This decision follows a competitive bidding war for the company.

Police conducted an evacuation operation at the Hilton Hotel while the US President and Melania Trump were in attendance. The operation involved police surrounding the hotel and helicopters flying over the area. The evacuation prevented a scheduled monologue by the President intended for a gathering of approximately 2,000 people. The event was organized to raise funds for journalism prizes and scholarships. The President, seated with Melania, confirmed via social media that the shooter is in custody. The President subsequently held a press conference to provide details on the event. Law enforcement and Secret Service officials were credited with the rapid response to the incident.

Stellantis is rolling out canine units equipped to sniff for firearms at several automotive plants across Metro Detroit. These units are already operational at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant and are scheduled to expand to facilities in Detroit and Warren. The company states the initiative aims to improve workplace safety and employee well-being. Some union leaders have expressed concerns that the increased security may negatively impact employee morale and create a prison-like atmosphere. Stellantis is implementing 950 new security measures across its manufacturing facilities in Metro Detroit. The automaker is deploying firearm-detecting dogs at factories, with units already active in Stirling Heights. Company officials stated the program aims to ensure worker safety following a past incident involving a weapon inside a plant.

The city of East Point has become the first in Michigan to require microchipping for all dogs and cats. This new ordinance aims to improve pet recovery rates for owners. The city has also implemented a ban on breeding. Officials stated the measure will help residents locate lost animals more easily. A new ordinance passed this week mandates that all pets must have a registered microchip. City officials stated the measure aims to ensure lost pets are reunited with their families.