Man charged with murder over death of ‘wonderful’ mum in gas explosion

Barbara Howard, a 78-year-old woman, was tragically killed when a Jaguar crashed into her Coventry home on July 17 after previously colliding with a VW van. Her family described her as a “caring, sharing, glamorous” mother and best friend, while West Midlands Police continue to investigate the incident and seek witnesses. Want More Context? 🔎

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating, with over 100 international aid organizations warning of targeted mass starvation amid ongoing Israeli attacks and blockades. Reports indicate severe malnutrition, particularly among children, and fatalities from starvation as aid is insufficient and heavily restricted, prompting urgent calls for increased international intervention. Want More Context? 🔎

Oakman Inns, a hotel and pub chain founded nearly 20 years ago, has entered administration due to declining customer numbers and rising operational costs, resulting in the closure of six pubs and the sale of 14 others to Upham Group, saving 531 jobs but leading to 159 redundancies. The administration process, managed by PwC, cites long-term impacts from the Covid-19 pandemic and economic pressures as significant contributing factors. Want More Context? 🔎

A young mother, Morgan Kiely, is on trial for gross negligence manslaughter after her seven-month-old son, Harry, died when he was thrown from an improperly secured car seat during a crash on July 13, 2022. The court heard that Kiely and a friend had been drinking at the beach, and Harry suffered fatal injuries after landing on the road when their car rolled over in an accident. Want More Context? 🔎

The US Embassy and 144 other diplomatic missions owe £161 million in unpaid London congestion charges, with the US alone responsible for £15.6 million. Despite Transport for London asserting that these charges are for services and not exempt under diplomatic law, many embassies continue to refuse payment, prompting ongoing pursuit of the debts. Want More Context? 🔎

Neil Hopper, a 49-year-old vascular surgeon from Cornwall who performed hundreds of amputations, has been charged with fraud and encouraging grievous bodily harm after lying to insurers about his leg injuries and purchasing videos related to illegal limb removals. Suspended from his position since March 2023, there is no evidence suggesting risk to patients from his professional conduct. Want More Context? 🔎