Column: Bass fires the L.A. fire chief, but her own smoldering political crisis is far from over

The couple, Clinton and Cristen Brink, were fatally attacked while hiking at Devil's Den State Park, Arkansas, where Cristen returned to help her husband after guiding their two daughters to safety. Andrew James McGann, a former schoolteacher, has been charged with their murders; he reportedly admitted to the killings and was identified through DNA evidence found at the scene. Want More Context? 🔎

Jen Easterly, former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, had her appointment as a chair at West Point rescinded after pro-Trump activist Laura Loomer criticized her hire on social media. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll cited concerns over integrity and the need for a vetting process, with Easterly expressing disappointment and emphasizing the importance of character in leadership. Want More Context? 🔎

Shane Tamura, who fatally shot four people in a New York City office building, legally obtained a concealed carry permit in Nevada despite a history of mental health issues. The incident has reignited calls for a national assault weapon ban, as current laws allow gun owners to transport firearms across state lines, complicating enforcement against gun violence. Want More Context? 🔎

Police in Virginia released surveillance footage showing 26-year-old Andres Caceres Jaldin allegedly abducting a toddler at the Fair Oaks Shopping Center on July 18. After the girl's parents located Jaldin and retrieved their daughter, he was arrested at a nearby hotel for abduction of a minor and grand larceny, and is currently held without bond. Want More Context? 🔎

The US plans to impose sanctions on the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), denying visas to their officials, following a UN conference supporting Palestinian statehood. This move is seen as a response to growing international recognition of Palestine and has drawn criticism from Palestinian leaders, who argue it punishes victims rather than addressing alleged Israeli war crimes. Want More Context? 🔎

André Rhoden-PaulBBC NewsJustin Timberlake recently revealed his diagnosis of Lyme disease, explaining how it has caused him significant pain and fatigue during his performances. Despite health challenges, he chose to complete his world tour, emphasizing the joy of performing and his desire to be more transparent about his struggles. Want More Context? 🔎