<p>California lawmakers have passed a bill that outlaws caste-based discrimination in the state. If the legislation becomes law, then it will become the first US state to enforce such a rule that has traditionally existed in South Asian communities.</p>

<p>The bill, introduced by Democrat Senator Aisha Wahab, will now be sent to Governor Gavin Newsom, who will decide whether to sign it into law.</p>

<p>Wahab is the first Muslim and Afghan-American woman elected to the state Legislature.</p>

<h2><strong>Discrimination laws extended to caste&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Though there are already laws in place to ban discrimination based on sex, race and religion, this is the&nbsp;first time in California that the anti-discrimination law has covered caste in a state that has a noticeable presence of South Asian community, especially Indians.</p>

<p>California's civil rights law goes further by outlawing discrimination based on things like medical conditions, genetic information, sexual orientation, immigration status and ancestry.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the state Senate voted 31-5 to approve a bill that would redefine “ancestry” to include “lineal descent, heritage, parentage, caste, or any inherited social status,” reports AP news agency.</p>

<p>“The more our communities become more and more diverse, we need to go further and deeper to protect more people — even when certain issues are more invisible to the mainstream public,” Wahab said.</p>

<h2><strong>Bill passed amid strong pushback&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the days leading up to the passage of the bill, Wahab received a massive pushback from the South Asian community, who argued that the bill unfairly targets them. Some even said that caste discrimination is not a problem in the US.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the Hindu American Foundation in a letter to state lawmakers expressed worry that South Asians could be “forced to answer intrusive questions about or be judged for who they are married to.”</p>

<p>In the legislature while voting, five Republicans voted against the bill, saying it would prompt the government and others to inappropriately judge people of South Asian descent.</p>

<p>State Senator Shannon Grove, a Republican from Bakersfield, noted caste was a complex system with no universally agreed definition.</p>

<p>“This is not a bill that protects, but it's a bill that profiles,” Grove said.</p>

<p>Notably, voters in California can also veto laws passed by the Legislature. If enough people sign a petition, it triggers a referendum where voters are asked whether they want to keep a certain law or block it.</p>

<h2><strong>Why California?</strong></h2>

<p>There is a reason why California state lawmakers raced to form safeguards against caste discrimination.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-airlines-stops-departures-nationwide-due-to-equipment-outage-632695">United Airlines briefly halts departures nationwide due to equipment outage</a></p>

<p>In recent years, caste-based discrimination has rattled the Silicon Valley, a large draw for South Asian technology workers, especially in Southern California.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republic-of-bharat-chorus-grows-for-india-to-be-renamed-as-bharat-632507">'Republic of Bharat': Chorus grows to restore India's ancient name</a></p>

<p>A 2020 lawsuit by the California Civil Rights Department — believed to be the first in the state to be filed on the grounds of caste-based discrimination — accused two Cisco supervisors of discriminating against and harassing an employee who identified as Dalit, the lowest class in the caste hierarchy.</p>

<p>The case against Cisco is ongoing, though complaints against the two supervisors were dropped earlier this year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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California lawmakers have passed a bill that outlaws caste-based discrimination in the state. If the legislation becomes law, then it will become the first US state to enforce such a rule that has traditionally existed in South Asian communities.

California lawmakers have passed a bill that outlaws caste-based discrimination in the state. If the legislation becomes law, then it will become the first US state to enforce such a rule that has traditionally existed in South Asian communities. The bill, introduced by Democrat Senator Aisha Wahab, will now be sent to Governor Gavin Newsom, who will decide whether to sign it into law. Wahab is the first Muslim and Afghan-American woman elected to the state Legislature. Discrimination laws extended to caste Though there are already laws in place to ban discrimination based on sex, race and religion, this is the first time in California that the anti-discrimination law has covered caste in a state that has a noticeable presence of South Asian community, especially Indians. California's civil rights law goes further by outlawing discrimination based on things like medical conditions, genetic information, sexual orientation, immigration status and ancestry. On Tuesday, the state Senate voted 31-5 to approve a bill that would redefine “ancestry” to include “lineal descent, heritage, parentage, caste, or any inherited social status,” reports AP news agency. “The more our communities become more and more diverse, we need to go further and deeper to protect more people — even when certain issues are more invisible to the mainstream public,” Wahab said. Bill passed amid strong pushback In the days leading up to the passage of the bill, Wahab received a massive pushback from the South Asian community, who argued that the bill unfairly targets them. Some even said that caste discrimination is not a problem in the US. Earlier this year, the Hindu American Foundation in a letter to state lawmakers expressed worry that South Asians could be “forced to answer intrusive questions about or be judged for who they are married to.” In the legislature while voting, five Republicans voted against the bill, saying it would prompt the government and others to inappropriately judge people of South Asian descent. State Senator Shannon Grove, a Republican from Bakersfield, noted caste was a complex system with no universally agreed definition. “This is not a bill that protects, but it's a bill that profiles,” Grove said. Notably, voters in California can also veto laws passed by the Legislature. If enough people sign a petition, it triggers a referendum where voters are asked whether they want to keep a certain law or block it. Why California? There is a reason why California state lawmakers raced to form safeguards against caste discrimination. Also read | United Airlines briefly halts departures nationwide due to equipment outage In recent years, caste-based discrimination has rattled the Silicon Valley, a large draw for South Asian technology workers, especially in Southern California. Also read | 'Republic of Bharat': Chorus grows to restore India's ancient name A 2020 lawsuit by the California Civil Rights Department — believed to be the first in the state to be filed on the grounds of caste-based discrimination — accused two Cisco supervisors of discriminating against and harassing an employee who identified as Dalit, the lowest class in the caste hierarchy. The case against Cisco is ongoing, though complaints against the two supervisors were dropped earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In a first, California lawmakers outlaw caste discrimination

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<p>California has named a stretch of highway after an Indian-origin police officer who died in the line of duty in 2018. Ronil Singh was 33 years old when an illegal immigrant shot him while he was conducting a traffic stop.</p>

<p>The Newman Police Department honoured Singh and named the stretch of Highway 33 in Newman, California. The authorities unveiled signage saying, "Corporal Ronil Singh Memorial" at Highway 33 and Stuhr Road on September 3. Ronil Singh's family members, colleagues and other officers attended the ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assemblyman Juan Alanis posted pictures of the ceremony on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, "Today the community came together to honour the memory of Cpl. Ronil Singh, who was tragically killed in the line of duty in December 2018. The memorial highway sign was unveiled today and will be displayed on Highway 33 and Stuhr Road.''</p>

<p>Ronil Singh's son was only five months old when his father died. "Love you, Papa," he wrote on the back of the signboard.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/trending/inflight-biohazard-us-plane-makes-u-turn-as-passenger-suffers-major-diarrhea-632510" target="_blank">Inflight 'biohazard': US plane makes U-turn as passenger suffers major diarrhoea</a></p>

<p>Senator Alvarado-Gil wrote in a Facebook post, "Today, a promise that was made has finally been brought to life. The Newman community honoured the late Corporal Singh for his dedication and commitment to putting his life on the line for the safety of others...Corporal Ronil Singh will always be a hero."</p>

<p>The illegal immigrant who shot Singh was Gustavo Perez Arriaga. Singh tried to stop him when he was planning to flee to his country, Mexico. Although multiple agencies responded to assist Singh, they could not save him. They found him at the scene with gunshot wounds and transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011.</p>

<p>In 2019, former US President Donald Trump called Ronil Singh a "national hero." He also spoke to his wife and colleagues. He said, "America's heart broke the day after Christmas when a young police officer in California was savagely murdered in cold blood by an illegal alien (who) just came across the border. The life of an American hero was stolen by someone who had no right to be in our country."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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California has named a stretch of highway after an Indian-origin police officer who died in the line of duty in 2018. Ronil Singh was 33 years old when an illegal immigrant shot him while he was conducting a traffic stop.

California has named a stretch of highway after an Indian-origin police officer who died in the line of duty in 2018. Ronil Singh was 33 years old when an illegal immigrant shot him while he was conducting a traffic stop. The Newman Police Department honoured Singh and named the stretch of Highway 33 in Newman, California. The authorities unveiled signage saying, "Corporal Ronil Singh Memorial" at Highway 33 and Stuhr Road on September 3. Ronil Singh's family members, colleagues and other officers attended the ceremony. Assemblyman Juan Alanis posted pictures of the ceremony on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, "Today the community came together to honour the memory of Cpl. Ronil Singh, who was tragically killed in the line of duty in December 2018. The memorial highway sign was unveiled today and will be displayed on Highway 33 and Stuhr Road.'' Ronil Singh's son was only five months old when his father died. "Love you, Papa," he wrote on the back of the signboard. ALSO READ | Inflight 'biohazard': US plane makes U-turn as passenger suffers major diarrhoea Senator Alvarado-Gil wrote in a Facebook post, "Today, a promise that was made has finally been brought to life. The Newman community honoured the late Corporal Singh for his dedication and commitment to putting his life on the line for the safety of others...Corporal Ronil Singh will always be a hero." The illegal immigrant who shot Singh was Gustavo Perez Arriaga. Singh tried to stop him when he was planning to flee to his country, Mexico. Although multiple agencies responded to assist Singh, they could not save him. They found him at the scene with gunshot wounds and transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011. In 2019, former US President Donald Trump called Ronil Singh a "national hero." He also spoke to his wife and colleagues. He said, "America's heart broke the day after Christmas when a young police officer in California was savagely murdered in cold blood by an illegal alien (who) just came across the border. The life of an American hero was stolen by someone who had no right to be in our country." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: California highway stretch named after Indian-origin police officer

<p>California is coming closer to becoming the first American state to ban caste discrimination after a bill to outlaw the practice was passed in the state assembly on Monday (August 28). According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Wednesday, the assembly passed the bill- SB403 - by a near-unanimous vote. The bill was introduced and authored in March by state Senator Aisha Wahab, an Afghan-American Democrat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported that an earlier version of the bill passed the Senate before undergoing revisions.</p>

<p>"Proud to announce Senator Aisha Wahab's bill SB403 which I presented on the Assembly floor today, passed on a 55-3 vote. This bill prohibits discrimination based on caste in California," Assembly member Damon Connolly posted on X, earlier known as Twitter, on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Proud to announce Senator <a href="https://twitter.com/aishabbwahab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aishabbwahab</a>’s bill <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SB403?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SB403</a>, which I presented on the Assembly floor today, passed on a 55-3 vote. This bill prohibits discrimination based on caste in California. <a href="https://t.co/kPh04kJnWR">pic.twitter.com/kPh04kJnWR</a></p>
— Assemblymember Damon Connolly (@AsmConnolly) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsmConnolly/status/1696306466557501868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The revised version would now move back for a vote to the state Senate where it is expected to be passed, before heading to Governor Gavin Newsom to be signed into law.</p>

<p>Discrimination laws in the US ban ancestry discrimination but do not explicitly ban casteism. California's bill targets the caste system in South Asian immigrant communities by adding caste to the list of categories protected under the state's anti-discrimination laws.</p>

<p>Reuters reported activists opposing caste discrimination said it is no different from other forms of discrimination like racism and hence should be outlawed.</p>

<p>In February, Seattle became the first American city to outlaw caste discrimination after the local council&nbsp;voted to add caste to Seattle's anti-discrimination laws.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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California is coming closer to becoming the first American state to ban caste discrimination after a bill to outlaw the practice was passed in the state assembly on Monday (August 28).

California is coming closer to becoming the first American state to ban caste discrimination after a bill to outlaw the practice was passed in the state assembly on Monday (August 28). According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Wednesday, the assembly passed the bill- SB403 - by a near-unanimous vote. The bill was introduced and authored in March by state Senator Aisha Wahab, an Afghan-American Democrat. Reuters reported that an earlier version of the bill passed the Senate before undergoing revisions. "Proud to announce Senator Aisha Wahab's bill SB403 which I presented on the Assembly floor today, passed on a 55-3 vote. This bill prohibits discrimination based on caste in California," Assembly member Damon Connolly posted on X, earlier known as Twitter, on Tuesday. Proud to announce Senator @aishabbwahab’s bill #SB403, which I presented on the Assembly floor today, passed on a 55-3 vote. This bill prohibits discrimination based on caste in California. pic.twitter.com/kPh04kJnWR — Assemblymember Damon Connolly (@AsmConnolly) August 28, 2023 × The revised version would now move back for a vote to the state Senate where it is expected to be passed, before heading to Governor Gavin Newsom to be signed into law. Discrimination laws in the US ban ancestry discrimination but do not explicitly ban casteism. California's bill targets the caste system in South Asian immigrant communities by adding caste to the list of categories protected under the state's anti-discrimination laws. Reuters reported activists opposing caste discrimination said it is no different from other forms of discrimination like racism and hence should be outlawed. In February, Seattle became the first American city to outlaw caste discrimination after the local council voted to add caste to Seattle's anti-discrimination laws. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

California to become first US state to ban caste discrimination

<p>Democratic Party ruled California is suing a school district for making a rule under which it is required to inform parents if a student asks to change their name or pronoun.</p>

<p>According to the policy adopted by Chino Valley Unified School District, parents must be immediately informed if a student uses facilities or participates in a programme not aligned with the gender assigned to them on paper.</p>

<p>Now, California has sued the school for allegedly violating the state’s constitution and children’s human rights.</p>

<h2><strong>What does the lawsuit say?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the lawsuit filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, passing over information to parents without obtaining permission from the students for the same amounts to a violation of civil rights laws.</p>

<p>According to a statement issued by Bonta, “Every student has the right to learn and thrive in a school environment that promotes safety, privacy, and inclusivity – regardless of their gender identity.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The forced outing policy wrongfully endangers the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of non-conforming students,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>School district’s arguments</strong></h2>

<p>Chino Valley Unified School District maintains that it protects transgender students under its policies, contrary to allegations levelled by Bonta.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;California: Four including shooter dead, six injured in mass shooting incident</strong></p>

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<p>In an emailed statement seen by Bloomberg, the school said, “School district staff are required to notify law enforcement if students believe they’re in danger or have been abused, injured or neglected due to their parent or guardian knowing of their preferred gender identity.”</p>

<p>It added that in such circumstances, it doesn’t notify parents or guardians; instead, it first waits for the investigation by officials to conclude.</p>

<h2><strong>Other similar court cases</strong></h2>

<p>The lawsuit represents the most recent addition to a series of legal cases emerging in courts. Just this month, a federal appeals court situated in Richmond, Virginia, dismissed a challenge from parents who contested the guidelines endorsed by the school board in Montgomery County, Maryland. These guidelines permitted students to formulate gender transition and support plans without involving their parents.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-mass-shooting-multiple-people-shot-at-a-bar-at-least-three-dead-628587"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;California mass shooting: At least five dead, several injured in bar</strong></a></p>

<p>Similarly, in May, a court in New Jersey ruled a similar judgement to the one Bonta is seeking in California. It temporarily halted the implementation of a policy by the board of education in Hanover Township, New Jersey. This policy would have required schools to inform parents about the gender identity and sexual orientation of LGBTQ students.</p>

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Democratic Party ruled California is suing a school district for making a rule under which it is required to inform parents if a student asks to change their name or pronoun.

Democratic Party ruled California is suing a school district for making a rule under which it is required to inform parents if a student asks to change their name or pronoun. According to the policy adopted by Chino Valley Unified School District, parents must be immediately informed if a student uses facilities or participates in a programme not aligned with the gender assigned to them on paper. Now, California has sued the school for allegedly violating the state’s constitution and children’s human rights. What does the lawsuit say? As per the lawsuit filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, passing over information to parents without obtaining permission from the students for the same amounts to a violation of civil rights laws. According to a statement issued by Bonta, “Every student has the right to learn and thrive in a school environment that promotes safety, privacy, and inclusivity – regardless of their gender identity.” “The forced outing policy wrongfully endangers the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of non-conforming students,” he added. School district’s arguments Chino Valley Unified School District maintains that it protects transgender students under its policies, contrary to allegations levelled by Bonta. Watch: California: Four including shooter dead, six injured in mass shooting incident × In an emailed statement seen by Bloomberg, the school said, “School district staff are required to notify law enforcement if students believe they’re in danger or have been abused, injured or neglected due to their parent or guardian knowing of their preferred gender identity.” It added that in such circumstances, it doesn’t notify parents or guardians; instead, it first waits for the investigation by officials to conclude. Other similar court cases The lawsuit represents the most recent addition to a series of legal cases emerging in courts. Just this month, a federal appeals court situated in Richmond, Virginia, dismissed a challenge from parents who contested the guidelines endorsed by the school board in Montgomery County, Maryland. These guidelines permitted students to formulate gender transition and support plans without involving their parents. Also read: California mass shooting: At least five dead, several injured in bar Similarly, in May, a court in New Jersey ruled a similar judgement to the one Bonta is seeking in California. It temporarily halted the implementation of a policy by the board of education in Hanover Township, New Jersey. This policy would have required schools to inform parents about the gender identity and sexual orientation of LGBTQ students. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: California sues school for informing parents about pronoun changes by students

<p>A chaotic scene erupted in California's Emeryville city on Sunday (August 27) evening, when approximately 300 teens near the East Bay mall&nbsp;formed groups and engaged in fights, media reports said. One of the eyewitnesses from Fresno city in California, Kathryn Borrud, found herself amidst the turmoil as the groups of teenagers began dispersing.</p>

<p>While describing the situation she said, "There were just these throngs of kids -- I want to say 300, 400 kids."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Things were fine. It was just a little strange, and then all of a sudden, they started running towards us. We thought there was like gunfire or a knife or something happened," she reportedly added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amidst the chaos, both Borrud and her son were knocked over by what she felt was a stampede of teenagers.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-authorities-to-ban-wearing-islamic-abayas-in-schools-629795">French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools</a></p>

<p>As the scuffle&nbsp;continued,&nbsp;a single gunshot was also heard but fortunately, it did not strike anyone present at the scene, as per the&nbsp;Emeryville city police. After an hour, a separate incident took place in which a juvenile was stabbed near Elm Street, the police added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Emeryville Police: multiple fights broke out involving 300 juveniles near AMC Theater at Bay Street mall around 5 pm.<br />
<br />
Police said the call to congregate was put out on social media.<br />
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1 shot was fired, no one injured. A juvenile was stabbed, non life threatening injuries. <a href="https://t.co/Z1jQvjtsn0">pic.twitter.com/Z1jQvjtsn0</a></p>
— Betty Yu (@bett_yu) <a href="https://twitter.com/bett_yu/status/1696018447317291306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The injured individual was transported to Highland Hospital with injuries that were deemed non-life-threatening.</p>

<h2><strong>Police response&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Emeryville police quickly responded to the turmoil. One juvenile was arrested in connection with the incidents.</p>

<p>Witness, Brenda Valladares, questioned the circumstances surrounding the unsupervised gathering. "My thing is just what were 400 kids doing?"</p>

<p>"They said it was over 400 kids. What were they doing here unsupervised without their parents? And it's scary, because she sometimes wants to go to the movies, and I'm like, 'I don't think you're not at that age to go by yourself,"&nbsp;said Valladares.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-definitely-be-left-alone-zelensky-says-allies-will-not-back-ukraine-in-hostilities-on-russian-soil-629791">'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil</a></p>

<h2><strong>A spillover followed</strong></h2>

<p>The disturbance at Bay Street Mall extended to a nearby Target retail store, where teenagers were witnessed causing havoc, pulling items off shelves, and engaging in shoplifting in front of families.</p>

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<p>Witness Annalise Garcia described the scene saying, "People were getting mad and everybody was stealing everything. Everything was on the floor."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song</strong></p>

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<p>While the police did not confirm a direct link between the Target incident and the chaos at the mall, they hinted at the existence of a "link up" that was posted on social media. This post is believed to have called up a large number of teenagers to the Bay Street Mall. The AMC Theater was temporarily closed following the incident.</p>

<p>It is also worth noting that the upheaval occurred on National Cinema Day (August 27). To mark the day, the AMC theatre was offering tickets for just $4.</p>

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A chaotic scene erupted in California's Emeryville city on Sunday (August 27) evening, when approximately 300 teens near the East Bay mall formed groups and engaged in fights, media reports said.

A chaotic scene erupted in California's Emeryville city on Sunday (August 27) evening, when approximately 300 teens near the East Bay mall formed groups and engaged in fights, media reports said. One of the eyewitnesses from Fresno city in California, Kathryn Borrud, found herself amidst the turmoil as the groups of teenagers began dispersing. While describing the situation she said, "There were just these throngs of kids -- I want to say 300, 400 kids." "Things were fine. It was just a little strange, and then all of a sudden, they started running towards us. We thought there was like gunfire or a knife or something happened," she reportedly added. Amidst the chaos, both Borrud and her son were knocked over by what she felt was a stampede of teenagers. Also Read | French authorities to ban wearing Islamic abayas in schools As the scuffle continued, a single gunshot was also heard but fortunately, it did not strike anyone present at the scene, as per the Emeryville city police. After an hour, a separate incident took place in which a juvenile was stabbed near Elm Street, the police added. 🚨 Emeryville Police: multiple fights broke out involving 300 juveniles near AMC Theater at Bay Street mall around 5 pm. Police said the call to congregate was put out on social media. 1 shot was fired, no one injured. A juvenile was stabbed, non life threatening injuries. pic.twitter.com/Z1jQvjtsn0 — Betty Yu (@bett_yu) August 28, 2023 × The injured individual was transported to Highland Hospital with injuries that were deemed non-life-threatening. Police response Emeryville police quickly responded to the turmoil. One juvenile was arrested in connection with the incidents. Witness, Brenda Valladares, questioned the circumstances surrounding the unsupervised gathering. "My thing is just what were 400 kids doing?" "They said it was over 400 kids. What were they doing here unsupervised without their parents? And it's scary, because she sometimes wants to go to the movies, and I'm like, 'I don't think you're not at that age to go by yourself," said Valladares. Also Read | 'We will definitely be left alone': Zelensky says allies will not back Ukraine in hostilities on Russian soil A spillover followed The disturbance at Bay Street Mall extended to a nearby Target retail store, where teenagers were witnessed causing havoc, pulling items off shelves, and engaging in shoplifting in front of families. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BAY AREA STATE OF MIND (@bayareastateofmind) × Witness Annalise Garcia described the scene saying, "People were getting mad and everybody was stealing everything. Everything was on the floor." Watch | Iranian pop singer Mehdi Yarrahi under scanner for Hijab removal song × While the police did not confirm a direct link between the Target incident and the chaos at the mall, they hinted at the existence of a "link up" that was posted on social media. This post is believed to have called up a large number of teenagers to the Bay Street Mall. The AMC Theater was temporarily closed following the incident. It is also worth noting that the upheaval occurred on National Cinema Day (August 27). To mark the day, the AMC theatre was offering tickets for just $4. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Strange & Scary: Nearly 400 teens break out into fights at California's Emeryville mall

The most recent in a run of gun violence occurrences, three people were murdered and five others were hurt in a shooting at a biker pub in Orange County, California, on Wednesday. 2023 is still on track to surpass 2012 as the deadliest year for mass shootings in modern memory.

California: Four including shooter dead, six injured in mass shooting incident

After making landfall in Mexico on Sunday, tropical storm Hilary now unleashes vicious wind gusts and heavy rain across California.

Tropical Storm Hilary brings flooding to Southern California

Hurricane Hilary hurtled towards Mexico's Baja California peninsula on Sunday, blanketing the region with heavy rain amid warnings of catastrophic and life-threatening flooding on the peninsula and in the U.S. Southwest. One man died in the Baja California Sur state when a family of five was swept away into the sea while crossing a stream, according to a Mexican official, who also shared images of flooding and roads that were swept away in the area. In the United States, the hurricane disrupted flights and sports games before it arrived.

Hurricane Hilary: 'Tropical storm brings flooding to Southern California

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-hilary-weakens-is-now-a-tropical-storm-627328">Tropical Storm Hilary</a> made landfall on Sunday (August 20) on Mexico's northwestern Pacific Coast, along with maximum sustained winds of 100 kilometres per hour, with California feeling the effects. It also brought heavy rains with it in the typically arid southwestern United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials have warned of potentially life-threatening flooding. There were reports of flash flooding in Los Angeles. Tornado warnings were also issued for some areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Weather Service said that a "dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding situation is developing from Point Mugu and Camarillo eastward through Thousand Oaks and Woodland Hills area and across the mountains of Los Angeles County".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the weather service, a flash flood warning was in place for downtown Los Angeles and Los Angeles County until 6:00 am ET Monday. A total of more than seven million people are affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports listed the locations that could experience flash flooding. These include -&nbsp;Thousand Oaks, Malibu, Lake Los Angeles, Acton, Wrightwood, Burbank, Palmdale, Mount Wilson, Pasadena, North Hollywood, Griffith Park, Santa Clarita, Universal City, Van Nuys, Lancaster, Hollywood, Alhambra, Northridge, Downtown Los Angeles and Beverly Hills.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Los Angeles area and San Diego schools will be closed Monday. Beaches were also ordered closed and people rushed to stores to stock up on water and other essentials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US National Hurricane Center said that the centre of Hilary had hit the north of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That was not it, amid catastrophic weather, nature struck in another scary way. A&nbsp;5.1 magnitude earthquake hit near the southern California town of Ojai but there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">California’s State of Emergency for Tropical Storm Hilary is expanding to support response and recovery in Mono County. <a href="https://t.co/iRGjTJ21dT">pic.twitter.com/iRGjTJ21dT</a></p>
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAgovernor/status/1693435996900397194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This afternoon, Governor <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GavinNewsom</a> visited the <a href="https://twitter.com/SBCounty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SBCounty</a> Emergency Operations Center to get an update on the latest forecast &amp; talk with elected officials, Sheriff Dicus, &amp; emergency response personnel.<br />
<br />
We'll continue to coordinate storm response with our local partners. <a href="https://t.co/QKpZfrG8yN">pic.twitter.com/QKpZfrG8yN</a></p>
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) <a href="https://twitter.com/CAgovernor/status/1693439815822491888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-critical-role-stressed-by-south-africas-brics-sherpa-anil-sooklal-ahead-af-the-summit-627360">India's 'critical role' stressed by South Africa's BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal ahead of the summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Biden lauds California's response&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Gov. Gavin Newsom said during a news conference in Los Angeles on Sunday that US President Joe Biden has hailed the "extraordinary mutual aid system" at work in California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement posted later online, Biden said: "My Administration stands ready to provide additional assistance as requested. I urge people to take this storm seriously, and listen to state and local officials."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As soon as Tropical Storm Hilary’s path became clear, my Administration took immediate action to prepare: deploying personnel and supplies, and planning rapid response and search-and-rescue efforts.<br />
<br />
My Administration stands ready to provide additional assistance and will…</p>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1693450359065170055?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-skip-republican-primary-debates-cites-legendary-lead-in-opinion-polls-627368">Trump confirms skipping Republican primary debates, cites 'legendary' lead in opinion polls</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Tropical Storm Hilary</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Tropical Storm Hilary has also become the first tropical storm in the state since Nora in 1997 and is only the fourth storm of tropical storm strength or stronger to move through the state.&nbsp;<br />
.<br />
Hilary earlier reached Category 4, which is the second-most powerful on the five-step Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale. However, it was downgraded to a tropical storm as it headed towards the densely populated Mexican border city of Tijuana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administrator Deanne Criswell urged people to take the dangers seriously despite the weakening.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tropical Storm Hilary made landfall on Sunday (August 20) on Mexico's northwestern Pacific Coast, along with maximum sustained winds of 100 kilometres per hour, with California feeling the effects.

Tropical Storm Hilary made landfall on Sunday (August 20) on Mexico's northwestern Pacific Coast, along with maximum sustained winds of 100 kilometres per hour, with California feeling the effects. It also brought heavy rains with it in the typically arid southwestern United States. The officials have warned of potentially life-threatening flooding. There were reports of flash flooding in Los Angeles. Tornado warnings were also issued for some areas. The National Weather Service said that a "dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding situation is developing from Point Mugu and Camarillo eastward through Thousand Oaks and Woodland Hills area and across the mountains of Los Angeles County". As per the weather service, a flash flood warning was in place for downtown Los Angeles and Los Angeles County until 6:00 am ET Monday. A total of more than seven million people are affected. Local reports listed the locations that could experience flash flooding. These include - Thousand Oaks, Malibu, Lake Los Angeles, Acton, Wrightwood, Burbank, Palmdale, Mount Wilson, Pasadena, North Hollywood, Griffith Park, Santa Clarita, Universal City, Van Nuys, Lancaster, Hollywood, Alhambra, Northridge, Downtown Los Angeles and Beverly Hills. Los Angeles area and San Diego schools will be closed Monday. Beaches were also ordered closed and people rushed to stores to stock up on water and other essentials. The US National Hurricane Center said that the centre of Hilary had hit the north of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. That was not it, amid catastrophic weather, nature struck in another scary way. A 5.1 magnitude earthquake hit near the southern California town of Ojai but there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. California’s State of Emergency for Tropical Storm Hilary is expanding to support response and recovery in Mono County. pic.twitter.com/iRGjTJ21dT — Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) August 21, 2023 × This afternoon, Governor @GavinNewsom visited the @SBCounty Emergency Operations Center to get an update on the latest forecast & talk with elected officials, Sheriff Dicus, & emergency response personnel. We'll continue to coordinate storm response with our local partners. pic.twitter.com/QKpZfrG8yN — Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) August 21, 2023 × Also read: India's 'critical role' stressed by South Africa's BRICS Sherpa Anil Sooklal ahead of the summit Biden lauds California's response Gov. Gavin Newsom said during a news conference in Los Angeles on Sunday that US President Joe Biden has hailed the "extraordinary mutual aid system" at work in California. In a statement posted later online, Biden said: "My Administration stands ready to provide additional assistance as requested. I urge people to take this storm seriously, and listen to state and local officials." As soon as Tropical Storm Hilary’s path became clear, my Administration took immediate action to prepare: deploying personnel and supplies, and planning rapid response and search-and-rescue efforts. My Administration stands ready to provide additional assistance and will… — President Biden (@POTUS) August 21, 2023 × Also read: Trump confirms skipping Republican primary debates, cites 'legendary' lead in opinion polls Tropical Storm Hilary Tropical Storm Hilary has also become the first tropical storm in the state since Nora in 1997 and is only the fourth storm of tropical storm strength or stronger to move through the state. . Hilary earlier reached Category 4, which is the second-most powerful on the five-step Saffir-Simpson hurricane scale. However, it was downgraded to a tropical storm as it headed towards the densely populated Mexican border city of Tijuana. US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administrator Deanne Criswell urged people to take the dangers seriously despite the weakening. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tropical Storm Hilary batters California: Flash-floods and tornado warnings in place

After making landfall in Mexico on Sunday tropical storm Hillary is now unleashing wind gusts and heavy rain across California warning of catastrophic and potentially deadly floods. The officials urged residents to take precautions as it would be the state's first tropical storm in 84 years.

Tropical storm Hilary brings flooding in Southern California

California coastal communities brace for storm Hilary

In pics | Tropical Storm Hilary pounds California after barreling through Mexico

Hurricane Hillary is moving from Mexico to the southwest of the United States, and many places will experience heavy rainfall. According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Hilary, a powerful Category-4 hurricane, churned about 325 miles south of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Friday afternoon with sustained winds of 130 mph with stronger gusts.

Hurricane Hilary heads for Mexico and California

<p>California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for a significant portion of Southern California to bolster the state's response and recovery efforts as it coordinates its resources to tackle the impending storm's anticipated effects. As the looming threat of Hurricane Hilary in Southern California draws near, the state is actively mobilising resources and urging citizens to prioritise safety measures.</p>

<h2><strong>Hurricane Hilary approaching&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The text of the emergency proclamation said that the National Hurricane Center has categorised Hurricane Hilary as a Category 2 storm. As per projections, the storm is expected to bring “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding”&nbsp;to Baja California and the Southwestern US, encompassing Southern California. It is worth noting that the brunt of the storm's impact, characterised by intense rainfall and powerful winds, is anticipated to begin on Sunday, August 20,&nbsp;and persist through Monday (August 21).</p>

<h2><strong>Boots on the ground</strong></h2>

<p>Under Governor Newsom's directives, over 7,500 personnel have been deployed to the affected regions, to aid local communities in safeguarding their residents from the impacts of Hurricane Hilary. Newsom signed the emergency proclamation in San Diego while interacting with California National Guard troops.</p>

<p>In addition, he engaged with first responders, local officials, and even federal counterparts, emphasising the collaborative approach being taken to address the crisis.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-about-30000-in-british-columbia-under-evacuation-order-with-thousands-more-on-alert-627128">Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert</a></p>

<p>“California has thousands of people on the ground working hand-in-hand with federal and local personnel to support communities in Hurricane Hilary’s path with resources, equipment and expertise. We’re mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm," the California governor said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Hilary is expected to weaken into a tropical storm by the time it reaches southern California. This would mark the first occurrence of a tropical storm hitting the state in over 80 years.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twenty-five-chinese-air-force-planes-crossed-taiwan-straits-median-line-taipei-627130">Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei</a></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden on Friday announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has strategically positioned personnel and resources in the area. "I urge everyone in the path of the storm to take precautions and listen to the guidance from state and local officials," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, parts of Mexico are under a tropical storm watch, prompting the government to ready 18,000 soldiers for potential rescue missions and assistance efforts.</p>

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California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for a significant portion of Southern California to bolster the state's response and recovery efforts as it coordinates its resources to tackle the impending storm's anticipated effects.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for a significant portion of Southern California to bolster the state's response and recovery efforts as it coordinates its resources to tackle the impending storm's anticipated effects. As the looming threat of Hurricane Hilary in Southern California draws near, the state is actively mobilising resources and urging citizens to prioritise safety measures. Hurricane Hilary approaching The text of the emergency proclamation said that the National Hurricane Center has categorised Hurricane Hilary as a Category 2 storm. As per projections, the storm is expected to bring “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” to Baja California and the Southwestern US, encompassing Southern California. It is worth noting that the brunt of the storm's impact, characterised by intense rainfall and powerful winds, is anticipated to begin on Sunday, August 20, and persist through Monday (August 21). Boots on the ground Under Governor Newsom's directives, over 7,500 personnel have been deployed to the affected regions, to aid local communities in safeguarding their residents from the impacts of Hurricane Hilary. Newsom signed the emergency proclamation in San Diego while interacting with California National Guard troops. In addition, he engaged with first responders, local officials, and even federal counterparts, emphasising the collaborative approach being taken to address the crisis. Also Read | Canada wildfires: About 30,000 in British Columbia under evacuation order with thousands more on alert “California has thousands of people on the ground working hand-in-hand with federal and local personnel to support communities in Hurricane Hilary’s path with resources, equipment and expertise. We’re mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm," the California governor said. As per reports, Hilary is expected to weaken into a tropical storm by the time it reaches southern California. This would mark the first occurrence of a tropical storm hitting the state in over 80 years. Also Read | Twenty-five Chinese air force planes crossed Taiwan Strait's median line: Taipei US President Joe Biden on Friday announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has strategically positioned personnel and resources in the area. "I urge everyone in the path of the storm to take precautions and listen to the guidance from state and local officials," he said. Watch | Canada’s British Columbia under state of emergency as Kelowna wildfire rages × Meanwhile, parts of Mexico are under a tropical storm watch, prompting the government to ready 18,000 soldiers for potential rescue missions and assistance efforts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

California governor declares state of emergency as Hurricane Hilary nears

<p>Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico.</p>

<p>By Thursday morning, Hurricane Hilary was located 530 miles (852 kilometres) southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, with higher gusts—an environment ripe for rapid intensification.</p>

<p>“Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Hilary could become a major hurricane by tonight or early Friday,” the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said recently.</p>

<p>As it continues to move in a west-northwest direction, Hilary is forecast to become a major Category 4 hurricane by late Thursday night or early Friday morning, US-based The Weather Channel reported.</p>

<p>But if it makes landfall in the US, the weather forecasters expect the hurricane to weaken.</p>

<h2><strong>California could see heavy showers</strong></h2>

<p>However, heavy rains are projected, especially in California, where several months’ worth of rain could fall in just one or two days, potentially causing flash flooding.</p>

<p>If Hilary makes landfall in California as a tropical storm, it'll be the first one in 84 years, CBS News reported.</p>

<p>And by Saturday and Sunday, the hurricane is expected to rapidly weaken as it moves over colder waters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And with that, Hilary is now a hurricane. Note: the track forecast was not updated with this advisory. Curious on how to interpret this product? Check out this video from the National Hurricane Center: <a href="https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA">https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA</a> <a href="https://t.co/J9Pdya1NKX">pic.twitter.com/J9Pdya1NKX</a></p>
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSSanDiego/status/1692147868336075019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The NHC said that the storm may bring high winds, surf, and rain to southern California, and parts of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico could also be affected.</p>

<p>The effects of the storm may start to be seen as early as Friday through the start of next week. The heaviest rainfall from Hilary within the United States is expected to peak on Sunday and Monday, according to&nbsp;NHC.</p>

<p>A climate scientist at the University of California at Los Angeles, Daniel Swain, told CNN that “multiple years’ worth of precipitation” could potentially fall in some of California’s driest areas.</p>

<p>Regardless of the flood danger, experts believe that the rainfall would combat drought and recharge groundwater across arid portions of the Southwest.</p>

<p>Drought conditions expanded in New Mexico and remained steady in California and Arizona this week, the US Drought Monitor reported Thursday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico.

Tropical storm Hurricane Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane on Thursday (Aug 17) as US weather experts expect it to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Southwest America after hitting Mexico. By Thursday morning, Hurricane Hilary was located 530 miles (852 kilometres) southwest of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, with maximum sustained winds of 85 miles per hour, with higher gusts—an environment ripe for rapid intensification. “Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Hilary could become a major hurricane by tonight or early Friday,” the National Hurricane Center (NHC) said recently. As it continues to move in a west-northwest direction, Hilary is forecast to become a major Category 4 hurricane by late Thursday night or early Friday morning, US-based The Weather Channel reported. But if it makes landfall in the US, the weather forecasters expect the hurricane to weaken. California could see heavy showers However, heavy rains are projected, especially in California, where several months’ worth of rain could fall in just one or two days, potentially causing flash flooding. If Hilary makes landfall in California as a tropical storm, it'll be the first one in 84 years, CBS News reported. And by Saturday and Sunday, the hurricane is expected to rapidly weaken as it moves over colder waters. And with that, Hilary is now a hurricane. Note: the track forecast was not updated with this advisory. Curious on how to interpret this product? Check out this video from the National Hurricane Center: https://t.co/BXWc7dshIA pic.twitter.com/J9Pdya1NKX — NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) August 17, 2023 × The NHC said that the storm may bring high winds, surf, and rain to southern California, and parts of Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico could also be affected. The effects of the storm may start to be seen as early as Friday through the start of next week. The heaviest rainfall from Hilary within the United States is expected to peak on Sunday and Monday, according to NHC. A climate scientist at the University of California at Los Angeles, Daniel Swain, told CNN that “multiple years’ worth of precipitation” could potentially fall in some of California’s driest areas. Regardless of the flood danger, experts believe that the rainfall would combat drought and recharge groundwater across arid portions of the Southwest. Drought conditions expanded in New Mexico and remained steady in California and Arizona this week, the US Drought Monitor reported Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

California braces for impact as Hurricane Hilary approaches after hitting Mexico

<p>Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting. Governments find it really difficult to control and they seek all the help they need.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The firefighters in California are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help spot wildfires. The system will stream video from over 1,000 strategically positioned cameras across the state into a machine that will warn first responders when it is time to mobilise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to the camera network, and in response to increasingly frequent and severe climate-driven disasters, ALERTCalifornia is prioritising novel data collection and research.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-social-media-awash-with-videos-of-deadly-maui-island-fire-in-hawaii-624529">Social media awash with videos of deadly Maui island fire in Hawaii</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The engineers at the University of California San Diego developed ALERTCalifornia by using AI from DigitalPath, a company based in Chico, California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The website noted that ALERTCalifornia provides "state-of-the-art technology that supports data-driven decisions to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the website, ALERTCalifornia is based at the University of California San Diego. It is a public safety program working to understand wildfires and other natural hazards. It also aims to help the authorities to determine short and long-term impacts on people and the environment to inform management decisions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why Maui's deadly wildfires spread so quickly&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>As reported by the news agency Reuters, Cal Fire said with people asleep and darkness concealing the smoke, it could have spread into a raging wildfire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, AI notified a fire captain, who dispatched approximately 60 firefighters, including seven engines, two bulldozers, two water tankers, and two hand crews. The fire was extinguished in 45 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cal Fire offered further examples of AI alerting fire captains to fire before a 911 call was placed since the AI programme began on July 10, albeit it did not yet have a thorough report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/virgin-galactics-tourist-astronauts-left-starstruck-after-trip-to-edge-of-space-watch-624619">Virgin Galactic's tourist 'astronauts' left 'starstruck' after trip to edge of space. Watch!</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by Reuters, Suzann Leininger, who is a Cal Fire intelligence specialist in El Cajon, just east of San Diego, said: "Its 100% applicable throughout anywhere in the world, especially now that we're experiencing a lot larger and more frequent fire regimes and with climate change."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a presser released on May 3, Neal Driscoll, director of ALERTCalifornia and geoscientist at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, said: "The program will spawn invaluable research and mitigation plans that will increase the state's resiliency towards the new extreme fire risk."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Data acquired in the highest fire-threat regions will significantly empower firefighters, first responders, legislators, city planners and scientists for years to come," Driscoll had added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting.

Wildfires are unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable and their behaviour and severity are dependent upon a combination of factors such as weather, available fuels, and physical setting. Governments find it really difficult to control and they seek all the help they need. The firefighters in California are using artificial intelligence (AI) to help spot wildfires. The system will stream video from over 1,000 strategically positioned cameras across the state into a machine that will warn first responders when it is time to mobilise. In addition to the camera network, and in response to increasingly frequent and severe climate-driven disasters, ALERTCalifornia is prioritising novel data collection and research. Also read: Social media awash with videos of deadly Maui island fire in Hawaii The engineers at the University of California San Diego developed ALERTCalifornia by using AI from DigitalPath, a company based in Chico, California. The website noted that ALERTCalifornia provides "state-of-the-art technology that supports data-driven decisions to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters". As per the website, ALERTCalifornia is based at the University of California San Diego. It is a public safety program working to understand wildfires and other natural hazards. It also aims to help the authorities to determine short and long-term impacts on people and the environment to inform management decisions. Watch: Why Maui's deadly wildfires spread so quickly × As reported by the news agency Reuters, Cal Fire said with people asleep and darkness concealing the smoke, it could have spread into a raging wildfire. However, AI notified a fire captain, who dispatched approximately 60 firefighters, including seven engines, two bulldozers, two water tankers, and two hand crews. The fire was extinguished in 45 minutes. Cal Fire offered further examples of AI alerting fire captains to fire before a 911 call was placed since the AI programme began on July 10, albeit it did not yet have a thorough report. Also read: Virgin Galactic's tourist 'astronauts' left 'starstruck' after trip to edge of space. Watch! As quoted by Reuters, Suzann Leininger, who is a Cal Fire intelligence specialist in El Cajon, just east of San Diego, said: "Its 100% applicable throughout anywhere in the world, especially now that we're experiencing a lot larger and more frequent fire regimes and with climate change." In a presser released on May 3, Neal Driscoll, director of ALERTCalifornia and geoscientist at UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, said: "The program will spawn invaluable research and mitigation plans that will increase the state's resiliency towards the new extreme fire risk." "Data acquired in the highest fire-threat regions will significantly empower firefighters, first responders, legislators, city planners and scientists for years to come," Driscoll had added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

California firefighters using AI to help spot wildfires and take necessary action

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<p>San Francisco has become one of the first cities in the United States to have a commercial driverless network operating at all times. On Thursday, a California commission voted to allow Google-owned Waymo and General Motors-owned Cruise to employ self-driving vehicles in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The contentious vote, which went on for seven hours, pulled around 200 public comments. The two self-driving car manufacturing companies were already running a small fleet of vehicles during the off-peak hours in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the vote, the co-CEO of Waymo, Tekedra Mawakana, said, "We can't wait for more San Franciscans to experience the mobility, safety, sustainability and accessibility benefits of full autonomy for themselves, all at the touch of a button."</p>

<p>The vice president of global government affairs at Cruise said, "24/7 driverless ride-hail service across San Francisco is a historic industry milestone." She added, "It allows the company to be competitive against an inaccessible transportation status quo."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russias-first-probe-to-the-moon-launched-in-almost-50-years-624395" target="_blank">Russia's first probe to the Moon launched in almost 50 years</a></p>

<p>The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) had earlier postponed the highly-awaited vote twice, initially scheduled for June 29, after San Francisco officials raised objections about driverless vehicles. The San Francisco fire department chief said the cars were "not ready for prime time."</p>

<p>While some disability advocates have supported the vote, others have come out against the resolution. Many organisations, including the Blinded Veterans Association, the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California and the Curry Senior Center, wrote an open letter to the CPUC backing the expansion of the services.</p>

<p>Several people representing the blind community said autonomous vehicles would help them travel as they cannot refuse passengers or deny ferrying a service dog. However, some people argue that self-driving cars are not accessible as they do not pick up or drop passengers at the curb, making it difficult for blind passengers or people with other disabilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CPUC Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma endorsed for a later vote until the Waymo and Cruise gave further details related to the problems raised by San Francisco officials about the vehicles' history. She also requested more data on the number of cars the two companies plan to release if the resolutions were approved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both companies have tested their vehicles in San Francisco and released a small fleet of self-driving cars in 2020. Earlier, they operated from 10 AM to 6 PM at a maximum speed of 30 mph. However, self-driving cars will now function at all hours in India at 60 mph.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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San Francisco has become one of the first cities in the United States to have a commercial driverless network operating at all times. On Thursday, a California commission voted to allow Google-owned Waymo and General Motors-owned Cruise to employ self-driving vehicles in the city.

San Francisco has become one of the first cities in the United States to have a commercial driverless network operating at all times. On Thursday, a California commission voted to allow Google-owned Waymo and General Motors-owned Cruise to employ self-driving vehicles in the city. The contentious vote, which went on for seven hours, pulled around 200 public comments. The two self-driving car manufacturing companies were already running a small fleet of vehicles during the off-peak hours in the city. After the vote, the co-CEO of Waymo, Tekedra Mawakana, said, "We can't wait for more San Franciscans to experience the mobility, safety, sustainability and accessibility benefits of full autonomy for themselves, all at the touch of a button." The vice president of global government affairs at Cruise said, "24/7 driverless ride-hail service across San Francisco is a historic industry milestone." She added, "It allows the company to be competitive against an inaccessible transportation status quo." ALSO READ | Russia's first probe to the Moon launched in almost 50 years The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) had earlier postponed the highly-awaited vote twice, initially scheduled for June 29, after San Francisco officials raised objections about driverless vehicles. The San Francisco fire department chief said the cars were "not ready for prime time." While some disability advocates have supported the vote, others have come out against the resolution. Many organisations, including the Blinded Veterans Association, the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California and the Curry Senior Center, wrote an open letter to the CPUC backing the expansion of the services. Several people representing the blind community said autonomous vehicles would help them travel as they cannot refuse passengers or deny ferrying a service dog. However, some people argue that self-driving cars are not accessible as they do not pick up or drop passengers at the curb, making it difficult for blind passengers or people with other disabilities. CPUC Commissioner Genevieve Shiroma endorsed for a later vote until the Waymo and Cruise gave further details related to the problems raised by San Francisco officials about the vehicles' history. She also requested more data on the number of cars the two companies plan to release if the resolutions were approved. Both companies have tested their vehicles in San Francisco and released a small fleet of self-driving cars in 2020. Earlier, they operated from 10 AM to 6 PM at a maximum speed of 30 mph. However, self-driving cars will now function at all hours in India at 60 mph. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

San Francisco to have self-driving cars; California commission allows two companies to operate commercially

<p>While on a family fishing trip in the Florida Keys, Tampa's Mayor stumbled upon a big catch. No, it was not a big fish but a large packet of cocaine worth $1.1 million.</p>

<p>Mayor Jane Castor, who also served as the city's police chief in the past, was searching&nbsp;for mahi-mahi fish late last month. However, she and her family came across the 70-pound package containing cocaine floating in the Atlantic waters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This incident took place on July 23, south of Marathon. Castor quickly informed the US Border Patrol about the find.</p>

<h2><strong>Package contained 25 bricks of cocaine</strong></h2>

<p>Castor promptly noted the location of the find and, with the help of her family, retrieved the package from the water onto their boat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She promptly reached out to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to report the discovery. The package contained 25 bricks of the drug, each decorated with a butterfly motif.</p>

<h2><strong>Police express gratitude</strong></h2>

<p>Expressing gratitude for the assistance from the boating community, Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Adam Hoffner emphasised the impact of the mayor's actions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;California's mountains covered in snow way into summer</strong></p>

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<p>"We appreciate the ongoing support from our boating community. Thanks to the efforts of this Good Samaritan, 70 pounds of cocaine are in federal custody and off our streets. We encourage the community to immediately report suspicious activity to local authorities," Hoffner said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/viral-sikh-man-who-defended-california-store-from-robber-now-under-investigation-for-assault-622979"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Viral Sikh man, who defended California store from robber, now under investigation for assault</strong></a></p>

<p>Jane Castor has served 31 years in service with the Tampa Police Department, during which she made history as the first female chief of police before assuming her current role as mayor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This recent discovery isn't the only instance of significant drug find in the Florida Keys, an island chain situated to the south of Miami.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just last month, boaters uncovered 87 pounds of hashish in the waters off Marathon, and another group came across 62 pounds of cocaine, featuring images of the Eiffel Tower.</p>

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While on a family fishing trip in the Florida Keys, Tampa's Mayor stumbled upon a big catch. No, it was not a big fish but a large packet of cocaine worth $1.1 million.

While on a family fishing trip in the Florida Keys, Tampa's Mayor stumbled upon a big catch. No, it was not a big fish but a large packet of cocaine worth $1.1 million. Mayor Jane Castor, who also served as the city's police chief in the past, was searching for mahi-mahi fish late last month. However, she and her family came across the 70-pound package containing cocaine floating in the Atlantic waters. This incident took place on July 23, south of Marathon. Castor quickly informed the US Border Patrol about the find. Package contained 25 bricks of cocaine Castor promptly noted the location of the find and, with the help of her family, retrieved the package from the water onto their boat. She promptly reached out to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to report the discovery. The package contained 25 bricks of the drug, each decorated with a butterfly motif. Police express gratitude Expressing gratitude for the assistance from the boating community, Assistant Chief Patrol Agent Adam Hoffner emphasised the impact of the mayor's actions. Watch: California's mountains covered in snow way into summer × "We appreciate the ongoing support from our boating community. Thanks to the efforts of this Good Samaritan, 70 pounds of cocaine are in federal custody and off our streets. We encourage the community to immediately report suspicious activity to local authorities," Hoffner said. Also read: Viral Sikh man, who defended California store from robber, now under investigation for assault Jane Castor has served 31 years in service with the Tampa Police Department, during which she made history as the first female chief of police before assuming her current role as mayor. This recent discovery isn't the only instance of significant drug find in the Florida Keys, an island chain situated to the south of Miami. Just last month, boaters uncovered 87 pounds of hashish in the waters off Marathon, and another group came across 62 pounds of cocaine, featuring images of the Eiffel Tower. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Tampa mayor bags big on a fishing trip: A package of cocaine worth $1.1mn

<p>In the Lake Tahoe region of California, a well-known and “extremely food-habituated” 500lb female black bear named "Hank the Tank" has been successfully captured by wildlife authorities after more than a year of evading them. This incident follows a wildlife equivalent of an All Points Bulletin (APB) issued by the state's wildlife officials.&nbsp;An All Points Bulletin (APB) is a widely circulated alert used by law enforcement agencies in the United States to request assistance in locating a suspect, missing person, or a vehicle of interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Initially, the bear was incorrectly identified as a male, but subsequently confirmed as female. Hank has been found to be causing over 21 home break-ins and instances of property damage in the Lake Tahoe area since 2022. In all these cases, the animal was matched by DNA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-judge-dismisses-donald-trumps-counter-defamation-lawsuit-against-caroll-623276">New York judge dismisses Donald Trump’s counter defamation lawsuit against Caroll</a></p>

<p>On Friday morning, she was immobilised using a tranquilizer dart and taken into custody by state officials. Hank is now scheduled to be relocated to a sanctuary in southern Colorado to ensure the safety of both the bear and the South Lake Tahoe community.</p>

<h2><strong>Efforts to safeguard community</strong></h2>

<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) released a statement saying that due to the bear's notoriety and the potential risks it posed, they opted for this alternative solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-issues-alert-over-contaminated-indian-made-cough-syrup-sold-in-iraq-623272">WHO issues alert over ‘contaminated’ Indian-made cough syrup sold in Iraq &nbsp;</a></p>

<p>“Given the widespread interest in this bear, and the significant risk of a serious incident involving the bear, CDFW is employing an alternative solution to safeguard the bear family as well as the people in the South Lake Tahoe community,” the state officials said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Cubs' fate&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hank, officially identified as bear 64F, may face the loss of custody of her three cubs. These cubs could be transferred to a facility in Sonoma County, California, with the hope of ending their negative behaviors.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China and Philippines spar in South China sea</strong></p>

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<p>However, it has been clarified that there are other bears involved in the property rampages attributed to "Hank the Tank." The authorities have come to understand that there are multiple bears responsible for the incidents, and not just 64F. The other bears, referred to as "other Hanks," have not posed problems to the community in the current year.</p>

<h2><strong>Community complaints</strong></h2>

<p>Trackers from CDFW suspect that two other bears are also contributing to the series of property rampages in the area. Last year alone, local residents filed at least 102 complaints related to bear-induced incidents.</p>

<p>Prior to her capture, various tactics were employed to deter the troublesome bear, including sirens, de-activated tasers, and beanbag rounds. The bear's behavior was described as displaying a lack of fear towards humans, raising concerns about potential danger.</p>

<h2><strong>Culinary preferences of 'Hank the Tank'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Ann Bryant, executive director of Bear League, a wildlife rescue service in California, highlighted that the bear's significant weight gain could not be attributed solely to a natural diet of berries and grubs. It became reportedly evident that 64F had developed a taste for human food, leading to her dietary habits being responsible for her weight gain.</p>

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In the Lake Tahoe region of California, a well-known and “extremely food-habituated” 500lb female black bear named "Hank the Tank" has been successfully captured by wildlife authorities after more than a year of evading them.

In the Lake Tahoe region of California, a well-known and “extremely food-habituated” 500lb female black bear named "Hank the Tank" has been successfully captured by wildlife authorities after more than a year of evading them. This incident follows a wildlife equivalent of an All Points Bulletin (APB) issued by the state's wildlife officials. An All Points Bulletin (APB) is a widely circulated alert used by law enforcement agencies in the United States to request assistance in locating a suspect, missing person, or a vehicle of interest. Initially, the bear was incorrectly identified as a male, but subsequently confirmed as female. Hank has been found to be causing over 21 home break-ins and instances of property damage in the Lake Tahoe area since 2022. In all these cases, the animal was matched by DNA. Also Read | New York judge dismisses Donald Trump’s counter defamation lawsuit against Caroll On Friday morning, she was immobilised using a tranquilizer dart and taken into custody by state officials. Hank is now scheduled to be relocated to a sanctuary in southern Colorado to ensure the safety of both the bear and the South Lake Tahoe community. Efforts to safeguard community The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) released a statement saying that due to the bear's notoriety and the potential risks it posed, they opted for this alternative solution. Also Read | WHO issues alert over ‘contaminated’ Indian-made cough syrup sold in Iraq “Given the widespread interest in this bear, and the significant risk of a serious incident involving the bear, CDFW is employing an alternative solution to safeguard the bear family as well as the people in the South Lake Tahoe community,” the state officials said in a statement. Cubs' fate Hank, officially identified as bear 64F, may face the loss of custody of her three cubs. These cubs could be transferred to a facility in Sonoma County, California, with the hope of ending their negative behaviors. Watch | China and Philippines spar in South China sea × However, it has been clarified that there are other bears involved in the property rampages attributed to "Hank the Tank." The authorities have come to understand that there are multiple bears responsible for the incidents, and not just 64F. The other bears, referred to as "other Hanks," have not posed problems to the community in the current year. Community complaints Trackers from CDFW suspect that two other bears are also contributing to the series of property rampages in the area. Last year alone, local residents filed at least 102 complaints related to bear-induced incidents. Prior to her capture, various tactics were employed to deter the troublesome bear, including sirens, de-activated tasers, and beanbag rounds. The bear's behavior was described as displaying a lack of fear towards humans, raising concerns about potential danger. Culinary preferences of 'Hank the Tank' Ann Bryant, executive director of Bear League, a wildlife rescue service in California, highlighted that the bear's significant weight gain could not be attributed solely to a natural diet of berries and grubs. It became reportedly evident that 64F had developed a taste for human food, leading to her dietary habits being responsible for her weight gain. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Notorious 'Hank the Tank' bear captured in California's Lake Tahoe region

<p>A Sikh man and his colleague, who defended their 7-Eleven store in California from a robber and whacked him using a stick, are now reportedly being investigated by police for assault, KCRA TV reported.</p>

<p>The video of the men, employees at the convenience store, thrashing the robber earlier went viral on social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sikh grocery store owner was told that "there ain't nothing you can do" repeatedly and that "ayy, just let him go" as they were being robbed. The Sikhs disagreed. <a href="https://t.co/ZIb5CVLMNl">pic.twitter.com/ZIb5CVLMNl</a></p>
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) <a href="https://twitter.com/stillgray/status/1686713571994959872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What happened at the grocery store?</strong></h2>

<p>In the viral video, the robber is seen filling a waste bin with cigarettes, cigars, and vapes from the convenience store, while a bystander captures the scene. The bystander advises the store employees to let the robber go, asserting that they can do nothing.</p>

<p>The store workers plead with the robber to halt his actions. Suddenly, a store employee takes swift action, tackling the robber to the ground as he attempts to flee with the stolen items. At this point, the Sikh man intervenes, striking the robber with what appears to be a broom or stick.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/officials-illegal-lab-in-california-with-bioengineered-mice-infectious-agents-621614"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Officials discover illegal lab in California with bioengineered mice, infectious agents</strong></a></p>

<p>The Sikh man continues to subdue the struggling and screaming robber, who finally pleads for mercy, saying, "Okay, okay!" The bystander encourages the Sikh man, exclaiming, "That's how you handle it! Keep going!" The bystander then questions the thief about surrendering, and the robber responds, "Yeah, I'm done!"</p>

<h2><strong>Social media users vent anger</strong></h2>

<p>A major controversy has now erupted on social media after the Sikh man and his colleague were put under investigation. Social media users are expressing their anger at what they call the ‘criminalisation’ of self-defence or the defence of property.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US aims to reclaim clout in West Asia</strong></p>

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<p>“It is appalling that self-defense and defense of property is being criminalized in AMERICA,” one user posted on X.</p>

<p>“Let's make sure the criminals are okay. Besides the obvious physical injuries, I hope that guy's feelings weren't hurt,” another user wrote on X in a satirical post.</p>

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A Sikh man and his colleague, who defended their 7-Eleven store in California from a robber and whacked him using a stick, are now reportedly being investigated by police for assault, KCRA TV reported.

A Sikh man and his colleague, who defended their 7-Eleven store in California from a robber and whacked him using a stick, are now reportedly being investigated by police for assault, KCRA TV reported. The video of the men, employees at the convenience store, thrashing the robber earlier went viral on social media. Sikh grocery store owner was told that "there ain't nothing you can do" repeatedly and that "ayy, just let him go" as they were being robbed. The Sikhs disagreed. pic.twitter.com/ZIb5CVLMNl — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) August 2, 2023 × What happened at the grocery store? In the viral video, the robber is seen filling a waste bin with cigarettes, cigars, and vapes from the convenience store, while a bystander captures the scene. The bystander advises the store employees to let the robber go, asserting that they can do nothing. The store workers plead with the robber to halt his actions. Suddenly, a store employee takes swift action, tackling the robber to the ground as he attempts to flee with the stolen items. At this point, the Sikh man intervenes, striking the robber with what appears to be a broom or stick. Also read: Officials discover illegal lab in California with bioengineered mice, infectious agents The Sikh man continues to subdue the struggling and screaming robber, who finally pleads for mercy, saying, "Okay, okay!" The bystander encourages the Sikh man, exclaiming, "That's how you handle it! Keep going!" The bystander then questions the thief about surrendering, and the robber responds, "Yeah, I'm done!" Social media users vent anger A major controversy has now erupted on social media after the Sikh man and his colleague were put under investigation. Social media users are expressing their anger at what they call the ‘criminalisation’ of self-defence or the defence of property. Watch: US aims to reclaim clout in West Asia × “It is appalling that self-defense and defense of property is being criminalized in AMERICA,” one user posted on X. “Let's make sure the criminals are okay. Besides the obvious physical injuries, I hope that guy's feelings weren't hurt,” another user wrote on X in a satirical post. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Viral Sikh man, who defended California store from robber, now under investigation for assault

<p>In a devastating incident that unfolded on Sunday (August 6), two firefighting helicopters collided while battling a blaze in Southern California's Riverside County, resulting in three deaths, as reported by the Associated Press.</p>

<p>As flames engulfed the landscape, one of the helicopters managed to execute a safe landing.</p>

<p>However, the second helicopter was not as fortunate, and tragically, all three occupants on board lost their lives.</p>

<p>Among the victims were a distinguished Cal Fire Division chief, a dedicated Cal Fire captain, and a contracted client pilot.</p>

<p>The sombre&nbsp;announcement was made by Chief David Fulcher of Cal Fire Southern Region, who addressed the media in an early Monday press conference.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ocean-waves-are-getting-bigger-as-earth-gets-warm-study-says-622044">Ocean waves are getting bigger as Earth gets warm, study says</a></p>

<h2><strong>The blaze and the collision</strong></h2>

<p>The unfortunate incident unfolded as Cal Fire and Riverside County Fire Department resources responded to reports of a structure fire at the junction of Broadway Street and South Ronda Avenue in Cabazon.</p>

<p>Swift action was taken, and the first engine company swiftly arrived at the scene. However, the situation escalated rapidly, with the fire spreading into the surrounding vegetation.</p>

<p>This prompted the initiation of a full-scale wildland fire dispatch, involving both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Canadian wildfire emissions double previous record</strong></p>

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<p>Amidst their valiant efforts, disaster struck. The two helicopters, engaged in a coordinated response to quell the blaze, collided in mid-air. The impact of the collision led to an additional fire breakout, consuming an area of approximately 4 acres, or 1.6 hectares. The secondary fire was brought under control and extinguished.</p>

<p>The pilot of the helicopter that met with the fatal crash was carrying out contractual duties on behalf of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the tragedy, the National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation into the collision.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a devastating incident that unfolded on Sunday (August 6), two firefighting helicopters collided while battling a blaze in Southern California's Riverside County, resulting in three deaths, as reported by the Associated Press.

In a devastating incident that unfolded on Sunday (August 6), two firefighting helicopters collided while battling a blaze in Southern California's Riverside County, resulting in three deaths, as reported by the Associated Press. As flames engulfed the landscape, one of the helicopters managed to execute a safe landing. However, the second helicopter was not as fortunate, and tragically, all three occupants on board lost their lives. Among the victims were a distinguished Cal Fire Division chief, a dedicated Cal Fire captain, and a contracted client pilot. The sombre announcement was made by Chief David Fulcher of Cal Fire Southern Region, who addressed the media in an early Monday press conference. Also read | Ocean waves are getting bigger as Earth gets warm, study says The blaze and the collision The unfortunate incident unfolded as Cal Fire and Riverside County Fire Department resources responded to reports of a structure fire at the junction of Broadway Street and South Ronda Avenue in Cabazon. Swift action was taken, and the first engine company swiftly arrived at the scene. However, the situation escalated rapidly, with the fire spreading into the surrounding vegetation. This prompted the initiation of a full-scale wildland fire dispatch, involving both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Also watch | Canadian wildfire emissions double previous record Amidst their valiant efforts, disaster struck. The two helicopters, engaged in a coordinated response to quell the blaze, collided in mid-air. The impact of the collision led to an additional fire breakout, consuming an area of approximately 4 acres, or 1.6 hectares. The secondary fire was brought under control and extinguished. The pilot of the helicopter that met with the fatal crash was carrying out contractual duties on behalf of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation into the collision. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Two firefighting helicopters collide while fighting California fire, 3 dead

<p>Amid soaring temperatures across the United States including southern California, a black bear was spotted taking a dip in a backyard swimming pool to beat the heat. In a now-viral video posted by the police in the city of Burbank, the grizzly was seen sitting in the pool at a hillside neighbourhood.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Beating the heat’</strong></h2>

<p>The clip of the incident that occurred on Friday afternoon (July 28), was posted on the Burbank Police Department’s social media pages and has garnered thousands of likes and views where the bear was seen coolly sitting in the pool.</p>

<p>The video was posted by the police with the caption, “This bear is beating the heat in Burbank! Officers are on-scene after the bear was spotted in a hillside neighbourhood before taking a dip to cool off.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bear?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bear</a> is beating the heat in Burbank! Officers are on-scene after the bear was spotted in a hillside neighborhood before taking a dip to cool off. For safety tips regarding bear sightings, visit <a href="https://t.co/o5zi9UrjPh">https://t.co/o5zi9UrjPh</a> <a href="https://t.co/aHci8CyMLS">pic.twitter.com/aHci8CyMLS</a></p>
— Burbank Police (@BurbankPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/BurbankPD/status/1685080203830390784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to the police, the officers were called after residents spotted the bear in the Burbank hillside neighbourhood which is about 16 kilometres north of Los Angeles and near the Verdugo Mountains.</p>

<h2><strong>Social media users sympathise with the bear</strong></h2>

<p>Several comments favoured the bear’s move to take a dip amid soaring temperatures in California. “The scorching heat is taking a toll on this poor fellow,” said one user on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While another user said, “I don’t blame him. Let the poor guy enjoy some much needed cooling off.” A third user joked, “Let him enjoy the bear necessities of life.”</p>

<p>However, others also expressed concerns about the bear’s whereabouts and asked for an update asking if it was okay. “What did y’all do with the bear? I hope she’s ok. Please provide an update,” said one of the users.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Police issue bear safety tips</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement on Friday, the police said that after a short dip, the bear climbed over a wall and headed to a tree behind the home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident also prompted the police department to issue a warning to residents to avoid bears and “Bear Necessities Safety Tips”.</p>

<p>This includes never feeding or approaching a bear; securing food, garbage and recycling; cleaning and storing outdoor grills properly; keeping dogs leashed to avoid frightening the bear and prompting it to attack; removing bird feeders and pet food; and advising residents to carry bear spray.</p>

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Amid soaring temperatures across the United States including southern California, a black bear was spotted taking a dip in a backyard swimming pool to beat the heat.

Amid soaring temperatures across the United States including southern California, a black bear was spotted taking a dip in a backyard swimming pool to beat the heat. In a now-viral video posted by the police in the city of Burbank, the grizzly was seen sitting in the pool at a hillside neighbourhood. ‘Beating the heat’ The clip of the incident that occurred on Friday afternoon (July 28), was posted on the Burbank Police Department’s social media pages and has garnered thousands of likes and views where the bear was seen coolly sitting in the pool. The video was posted by the police with the caption, “This bear is beating the heat in Burbank! Officers are on-scene after the bear was spotted in a hillside neighbourhood before taking a dip to cool off.” This #bear is beating the heat in Burbank! Officers are on-scene after the bear was spotted in a hillside neighborhood before taking a dip to cool off. For safety tips regarding bear sightings, visit https://t.co/o5zi9UrjPh pic.twitter.com/aHci8CyMLS — Burbank Police (@BurbankPD) July 29, 2023 × According to the police, the officers were called after residents spotted the bear in the Burbank hillside neighbourhood which is about 16 kilometres north of Los Angeles and near the Verdugo Mountains. Social media users sympathise with the bear Several comments favoured the bear’s move to take a dip amid soaring temperatures in California. “The scorching heat is taking a toll on this poor fellow,” said one user on X, formerly known as Twitter. While another user said, “I don’t blame him. Let the poor guy enjoy some much needed cooling off.” A third user joked, “Let him enjoy the bear necessities of life.” However, others also expressed concerns about the bear’s whereabouts and asked for an update asking if it was okay. “What did y’all do with the bear? I hope she’s ok. Please provide an update,” said one of the users. Police issue bear safety tips In a statement on Friday, the police said that after a short dip, the bear climbed over a wall and headed to a tree behind the home. The incident also prompted the police department to issue a warning to residents to avoid bears and “Bear Necessities Safety Tips”. This includes never feeding or approaching a bear; securing food, garbage and recycling; cleaning and storing outdoor grills properly; keeping dogs leashed to avoid frightening the bear and prompting it to attack; removing bird feeders and pet food; and advising residents to carry bear spray. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | US: Bear found chilling in backyard swimming pool to 'beat the heat' in California

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - The Los Angeles Times huge Suites or the California mountains still covered with snow as July is close to expire, the situation has emerged as an odd enigma for the world's meteorologists.

California's mountains covered in snow way into summer leaves experts surprised

<p>A report by the Los Angeles Times noted how large swathes of the US state of California’s Sierra Nevada are covered even when July is about to end. This also comes as the state’s snowpack reached a record-high, earlier this year, at 40 million acre-feet at its peak in April.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>California’s unusual weather phenomenon</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>California is facing a phenomenon which is quite the opposite of the rest of the United States as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extreme-heatwave-kills-at-least-13-in-the-united-states-610719">deadly heatwave</a> has been sweeping through parts of the country marked by soaring temperatures and sweltering heat. Meteorologists, in the US, reportedly consider June 1 to be the first day of summer.</p>

<p>Large parts of the mountains in the state are reportedly covered in snow well into summer when compared to the previous year around the same time. The report by the Los Angeles Times also noted how since the snow is around longer this time it has become a risky issue for hikers.</p>

<p>This unusual weather phenomenon has been attributed to an unusually wet winter and temperatures remaining low well into the spring which have also kept the typical dry weather conditions leading to massive wildfires over the years, at bay this time around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of earlier this month, California’s fire forecast remains “normal” to “below normal” due to the heavy rain and snow this year, reported NPR.</p>

<h2><strong>Snow in California and risks for hikers</strong></h2>

<p>On July 21, the snowpack in both the South and Central Sierra regions was a whopping 1,000 per cent of the average for that date, according to the Los Angeles Times. Additionally, snow cover at high elevations has also reportedly persisted far longer compared with last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also noted that such favourable conditions for longer snow were last seen over a decade ago, in 2011. “It’s pretty great to still have snowpack around,” said Andrew Schwartz, lead scientist at the University of California, Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Laboratory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he has also cautioned about late-season wet slab avalanches which occur when a layer of snow, or a slab, gets wet and very heavy ultimately causing the slab to slide downhill and can potentially partly or completely bury a person.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, a hiker was reported to have died in an avalanche on Split Mountain in Inyo County. Schwartz, according to the media report, also noted that rivers and streams from snowmelt have also been flowing faster and higher than average this year but the runoff peaked on June 1. However, it has since been on a downswing since but some of them still pose a threat to people venturing into the mountains in the upcoming days and weeks, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, Rob Patterson, president of the Mono County Sheriff’s Office’s search-and-rescue team said, “It makes people want to get in the water, and it makes the snow melt faster.” He added, “So I want to caution people to please be very, very, very careful around water, especially anything that leads to a stream or river. I would just not get in there right now.”<br />
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A report by the Los Angeles Times noted how large swathes of the US state of California’s Sierra Nevada are covered even when July is about to end. This also comes as the state’s snowpack reached a record-high, earlier this year, at 40 million acre-feet at its peak in April.

A report by the Los Angeles Times noted how large swathes of the US state of California’s Sierra Nevada are covered even when July is about to end. This also comes as the state’s snowpack reached a record-high, earlier this year, at 40 million acre-feet at its peak in April. California’s unusual weather phenomenon California is facing a phenomenon which is quite the opposite of the rest of the United States as a deadly heatwave has been sweeping through parts of the country marked by soaring temperatures and sweltering heat. Meteorologists, in the US, reportedly consider June 1 to be the first day of summer. Large parts of the mountains in the state are reportedly covered in snow well into summer when compared to the previous year around the same time. The report by the Los Angeles Times also noted how since the snow is around longer this time it has become a risky issue for hikers. This unusual weather phenomenon has been attributed to an unusually wet winter and temperatures remaining low well into the spring which have also kept the typical dry weather conditions leading to massive wildfires over the years, at bay this time around. As of earlier this month, California’s fire forecast remains “normal” to “below normal” due to the heavy rain and snow this year, reported NPR. Snow in California and risks for hikers On July 21, the snowpack in both the South and Central Sierra regions was a whopping 1,000 per cent of the average for that date, according to the Los Angeles Times. Additionally, snow cover at high elevations has also reportedly persisted far longer compared with last year. The report also noted that such favourable conditions for longer snow were last seen over a decade ago, in 2011. “It’s pretty great to still have snowpack around,” said Andrew Schwartz, lead scientist at the University of California, Berkeley’s Central Sierra Snow Laboratory. However, he has also cautioned about late-season wet slab avalanches which occur when a layer of snow, or a slab, gets wet and very heavy ultimately causing the slab to slide downhill and can potentially partly or completely bury a person. Earlier this month, a hiker was reported to have died in an avalanche on Split Mountain in Inyo County. Schwartz, according to the media report, also noted that rivers and streams from snowmelt have also been flowing faster and higher than average this year but the runoff peaked on June 1. However, it has since been on a downswing since but some of them still pose a threat to people venturing into the mountains in the upcoming days and weeks, he added. Similarly, Rob Patterson, president of the Mono County Sheriff’s Office’s search-and-rescue team said, “It makes people want to get in the water, and it makes the snow melt faster.” He added, “So I want to caution people to please be very, very, very careful around water, especially anything that leads to a stream or river. I would just not get in there right now.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: California’s mountains covered in snow way into summer leaves experts surprised

<p>A high-profile lawsuit which was filed by a woman in California claiming that the tuna products of Subway contained ingredients other than tuna was dismissed.</p>

<p>The chain, which has around 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries, and the lawsuit's plaintiff Nilima Amin have "come to agreement regarding dismissing the case with prejudice," which means the issues can not be brought again, as per court records.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subway said that the decision of US District Judge Jon Tigar to dismiss the case on Thursday (July 27) was welcomed by them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, a California-based judge will rule on Subway's request that the lawyers of Amin be sanctioned for bringing a frivolous class action.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/too-soon-subways-insensitive-our-subs-dont-implode-sign-after-titan-tragedy-invites-criticism-611933">Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens</a></p>

<p>"Subway serves 100% real, wild-caught tuna," said the chain in a statement. "The lawsuit and the plaintiff's meritless claims, which have always lacked any supporting evidence, resulted in the spread of harmful misinformation and caused damage to Subway franchisees and the brand," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amin's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment made by Reuters news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ordered&nbsp;Subway tuna products more than 100 times before lawsuit</strong></h2>

<p>Amin had stated that she had ordered Subway tuna products more than 100 times before filing a lawsuit against it in January 2021, making a claim that its tuna sandwiches, wraps and salads included other fish species, chicken, pork and cattle, and did not have any tuna at all.</p>

<p>In May, she requested to end the lawsuit because she became pregnant, and was experiencing "severe" morning sickness and "debilitating" conditions which made it impossible for her to fulfil her roles as a plaintiff.</p>

<p>This prompted Subway to demand sanctions, stating that the proposed exit of Amin reflected her lawyers' realisation it would not pay a "windfall settlement" in their "high-profile shakedown."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Subway: Our subs don't implode like Titan</strong></p>

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<p>Subway further faulted the "ever-changing" theories of Amin to debunk its claim which claimed that its tuna products were "100% tuna."</p>

<p>Amin's lawyers, while opposing sanctions, said she had a "good faith, non-frivolous basis based on testing and evidence that there was something amiss" with Subway tuna.</p>

<p>Last July, Tigar allowed the continuation of the case but rejected the claim of Amin that tuna was the only acceptable ingredient, calling it a "fact of life" &nbsp;that other ingredients like mayonnaise were okay.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A high-profile lawsuit which was filed by a woman in California claiming that the tuna products of Subway contained ingredients other than tuna was dismissed. The chain, which has around 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries, and the lawsuit's plaintiff Nilima Amin have "come to agreement regarding dismissing the case with prejudice," which means the issues can not be brought again, as per court records.

A high-profile lawsuit which was filed by a woman in California claiming that the tuna products of Subway contained ingredients other than tuna was dismissed. The chain, which has around 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries, and the lawsuit's plaintiff Nilima Amin have "come to agreement regarding dismissing the case with prejudice," which means the issues can not be brought again, as per court records. Subway said that the decision of US District Judge Jon Tigar to dismiss the case on Thursday (July 27) was welcomed by them. Later, a California-based judge will rule on Subway's request that the lawyers of Amin be sanctioned for bringing a frivolous class action. ALSO READ | Too soon? Subway's insensitive 'our subs don't implode' sign after Titan tragedy angers netizens "Subway serves 100% real, wild-caught tuna," said the chain in a statement. "The lawsuit and the plaintiff's meritless claims, which have always lacked any supporting evidence, resulted in the spread of harmful misinformation and caused damage to Subway franchisees and the brand," it added. Amin's lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment made by Reuters news agency. Ordered Subway tuna products more than 100 times before lawsuit Amin had stated that she had ordered Subway tuna products more than 100 times before filing a lawsuit against it in January 2021, making a claim that its tuna sandwiches, wraps and salads included other fish species, chicken, pork and cattle, and did not have any tuna at all. In May, she requested to end the lawsuit because she became pregnant, and was experiencing "severe" morning sickness and "debilitating" conditions which made it impossible for her to fulfil her roles as a plaintiff. This prompted Subway to demand sanctions, stating that the proposed exit of Amin reflected her lawyers' realisation it would not pay a "windfall settlement" in their "high-profile shakedown." WATCH | Subway: Our subs don't implode like Titan Subway further faulted the "ever-changing" theories of Amin to debunk its claim which claimed that its tuna products were "100% tuna." Amin's lawyers, while opposing sanctions, said she had a "good faith, non-frivolous basis based on testing and evidence that there was something amiss" with Subway tuna. Last July, Tigar allowed the continuation of the case but rejected the claim of Amin that tuna was the only acceptable ingredient, calling it a "fact of life" that other ingredients like mayonnaise were okay. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

California woman's lawsuit alleging Subway tuna contains other ingredients dismissed

A naked woman was seen getting down from her car with a gun which she used to open fire on the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge during rush hour. No casualties were reported and the woman was taken into custody and then hospitalised.

Woman walks naked on Bay Bridge, opens fire indiscriminately during rush hour

<p>Quick thinking by a 13-year-old kidnapped girl in the US enabled her rescue&nbsp;from the clutches of her abductor after a Good Samaritan spotted her “help me sign” inside a car in southern California.</p>

<p>On July 6, the minor girl — who has not been identified — was kidnapped at gunpoint near a bus stop in San Antonio, Texas.</p>

<p>The accused — 61-year-old Steven Robert Sablan — approached the girl in his vehicle demanding that she get in, saying, "If you don’t get in the car with me, I am going to hurt you," Long Beach Police Department said in a&nbsp;news release.</p>

<h2><strong>Accused kidnapped girl at gunpoint</strong></h2>

<p>According to police, Sablan had initially approached her by promising to take her on a cruise ship, but the 13-year-old had her suspicions.</p>

<p>When his sweet talk didn’t work, Sablan used coercion and made her sit in the car using his gun.</p>

<p>During the three days of her captivity, Sablan allegedly drove the girl more than 19 hours from Texas to California.</p>

<p>Police said that the girl was allegedly repeatedly sexually assaulted while being driven to California. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the girl’s mother reported her missing to San Antonio authorities on July 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Good Samaritan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On July 9, Sablan went to a laundromat in Long Beach to wash their clothes. While he was inside, the girl wrote "Help me!" on a piece of paper and held it up. A witness saw the sign and called the police, leading to the girl's rescue.</p>

<p>Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish thanked the community for helping the girl.</p>

<p>“This incident highlights the critical role community members play in keeping people safe,” he said in a statement.</p>

<p>“I would also like to acknowledge our officers for their swift response and actions which led to getting this victim to safety.”</p>

<p>Police later arrested the man and found a black BB gun "which resembled a semi-automatic pistol." They also found a pair of handcuffs inside the car.</p>

<p>Sablan was later sent to prison in Long Beach City after he was booked for kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts with a child, and fugitive from justice.</p>

<p>He was booked on a $100,000 bail and was released to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation on July 11, according to the jail's website.</p>

<p>Earlier this week,&nbsp;Sablan was&nbsp;indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with one count of kidnapping and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, the Central District of California US&nbsp;Attorney's Office said in a news release. His arraignment is scheduled for July 31 in the United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.</p>

<p>The girl was placed in the custody of the Los Angeles county department of children and family services.</p>

<p>According to AP news agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken over the case.</p>

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Quick thinking by a 13-year-old kidnapped girl in the US enabled her rescue from the clutches of her abductor after a Good Samaritan spotted her “help me sign” inside a car in southern California.

Quick thinking by a 13-year-old kidnapped girl in the US enabled her rescue from the clutches of her abductor after a Good Samaritan spotted her “help me sign” inside a car in southern California. On July 6, the minor girl — who has not been identified — was kidnapped at gunpoint near a bus stop in San Antonio, Texas. The accused — 61-year-old Steven Robert Sablan — approached the girl in his vehicle demanding that she get in, saying, "If you don’t get in the car with me, I am going to hurt you," Long Beach Police Department said in a news release. Accused kidnapped girl at gunpoint According to police, Sablan had initially approached her by promising to take her on a cruise ship, but the 13-year-old had her suspicions. When his sweet talk didn’t work, Sablan used coercion and made her sit in the car using his gun. During the three days of her captivity, Sablan allegedly drove the girl more than 19 hours from Texas to California. Police said that the girl was allegedly repeatedly sexually assaulted while being driven to California. Meanwhile, the girl’s mother reported her missing to San Antonio authorities on July 7. Good Samaritan On July 9, Sablan went to a laundromat in Long Beach to wash their clothes. While he was inside, the girl wrote "Help me!" on a piece of paper and held it up. A witness saw the sign and called the police, leading to the girl's rescue. Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish thanked the community for helping the girl. “This incident highlights the critical role community members play in keeping people safe,” he said in a statement. “I would also like to acknowledge our officers for their swift response and actions which led to getting this victim to safety.” Police later arrested the man and found a black BB gun "which resembled a semi-automatic pistol." They also found a pair of handcuffs inside the car. Sablan was later sent to prison in Long Beach City after he was booked for kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts with a child, and fugitive from justice. He was booked on a $100,000 bail and was released to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation on July 11, according to the jail's website. Earlier this week, Sablan was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with one count of kidnapping and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, the Central District of California US Attorney's Office said in a news release. His arraignment is scheduled for July 31 in the United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. The girl was placed in the custody of the Los Angeles county department of children and family services. According to AP news agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken over the case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

13-year-old kidnapped girl rescued after holding up ‘help me sign’ inside car in California

In California's Santa Cruz, wildlife officials have been trying to capture a wayward sea otter. The otter has been stealing surfboards away from surfers and aggressively approaching kayakers off the coast.

Otter aggressively approaches kayakers off the coast

When it comes to claiming the jackpot in a Powerball lottery you can imagine the odds are one in 292 million. But a very lucky Powerball player in Southern California has won the lottery of 1 billion dollars. It is the third time that the Powerball jackpot prize has reached 1 billion dollars.

US: Unknown person wins the Powerball lottery prize of $1 billion dollars

Contrary to its name this Death Valley National Park located on the California-Nevada border in the United States is a hot spot for tourists despite weather forecasts that this Valley will topple all records for extreme temperatures. This week tourists are on the edge looking for a chance to explore this desert landscape amid the Heatwave that has gripped the United States from Florida to California.

Death Valley is a hot, hot, hot tourist spot

<p>Surfers along the California coast have recently been facing a new threat in the water, and it's not sharks. A five-year-old sea otter has been causing trouble by attacking surfers and stealing their boards, sometimes even damaging them with its paws.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wildlife officials are working to capture an aggressive sea otter that has been menacing surfers and stealing surfboards off the California coast for several weeks. <a href="https://t.co/3LeEkR55V4">pic.twitter.com/3LeEkR55V4</a></p>
— NowThis (@nowthisnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/nowthisnews/status/1679242407563411456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Warning signs have been erected by the US Fish and Wildlife Service along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, stating: "Aggressive Sea Otter in This Area." Surfers are advised to "enter the water at their own risk" and to "keep away from marine wildlife".</p>

<h2><strong>Otter 841 causing menace in the area</strong></h2>

<p>Last year, there were a few reports about this aggressive sea otter, but the attacks have recently become more frequent. The otter, named Otter 841, has been showing hostile behaviour towards surfers. It forcefully removes them from their boards, takes the boards for a ride, and often damages them.</p>

<p>One surfer, Joon Lee, who was attacked by Otter 841, expressed his fear and stated that he does not plan on surfing again, according to media reports. However, experts highlight that such aggression from sea otters is highly unusual and rare.</p>

<h2><strong>Otter 841 well-known among local otter experts</strong></h2>

<p>Experts remain uncertain about the reason behind Otter 841's surfboard-stealing tendencies. Otter 841 is well-known to local otter experts. Her mother was raised in captivity, released into the wild, and later recaptured when she started climbing onto kayaks in search of food. During her time in captivity, she gave birth to Otter 841, who was raised by humans at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Extreme temperature and dry air leading to intense burning in California</strong></p>

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<p>Despite efforts to prevent her from developing strong bonds with humans, Otter 841 has seemingly lost the fear of humans. Reports of her interactions with surfers, kayakers, and paddleboarders began emerging after a year of her release into the wild.</p>

<h2><strong>Otter 841 to be recaptured</strong></h2>

<p>Due to the increasing risk to public safety, wildlife officials have decided to recapture Otter 841. A team from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Monterey Bay Aquarium trained in handling sea otters will attempt to capture and relocate her.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tragic-plane-crash-in-california-leaves-six-dead-sparks-bushfire-at-incident-site-613478"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Tragic plane crash in California leaves six dead, sparks bushfire at incident site</strong></a></p>

<p>The decision to recapture Otter 841 has been made not only to protect surfers but also for the otter's own well-being.</p>

<p>California sea otters, also known as southern sea otters, were once abundant along the California coast but were pushed to the brink of extinction due to aggressive fur hunting in the 19th century. With only around 3,000 remaining today, they are still considered an endangered species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, Otter 841 has managed to evade capture.</p>

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Surfers along the California coast have recently been facing a new threat in the water, and it's not sharks. A five-year-old sea otter has been causing trouble by attacking surfers and stealing their boards, sometimes even damaging them with its paws.

Surfers along the California coast have recently been facing a new threat in the water, and it's not sharks. A five-year-old sea otter has been causing trouble by attacking surfers and stealing their boards, sometimes even damaging them with its paws. Wildlife officials are working to capture an aggressive sea otter that has been menacing surfers and stealing surfboards off the California coast for several weeks. pic.twitter.com/3LeEkR55V4 — NowThis (@nowthisnews) July 12, 2023 × Warning signs have been erected by the US Fish and Wildlife Service along West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, stating: "Aggressive Sea Otter in This Area." Surfers are advised to "enter the water at their own risk" and to "keep away from marine wildlife". Otter 841 causing menace in the area Last year, there were a few reports about this aggressive sea otter, but the attacks have recently become more frequent. The otter, named Otter 841, has been showing hostile behaviour towards surfers. It forcefully removes them from their boards, takes the boards for a ride, and often damages them. One surfer, Joon Lee, who was attacked by Otter 841, expressed his fear and stated that he does not plan on surfing again, according to media reports. However, experts highlight that such aggression from sea otters is highly unusual and rare. Otter 841 well-known among local otter experts Experts remain uncertain about the reason behind Otter 841's surfboard-stealing tendencies. Otter 841 is well-known to local otter experts. Her mother was raised in captivity, released into the wild, and later recaptured when she started climbing onto kayaks in search of food. During her time in captivity, she gave birth to Otter 841, who was raised by humans at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Watch: Extreme temperature and dry air leading to intense burning in California × Despite efforts to prevent her from developing strong bonds with humans, Otter 841 has seemingly lost the fear of humans. Reports of her interactions with surfers, kayakers, and paddleboarders began emerging after a year of her release into the wild. Otter 841 to be recaptured Due to the increasing risk to public safety, wildlife officials have decided to recapture Otter 841. A team from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Monterey Bay Aquarium trained in handling sea otters will attempt to capture and relocate her. Also read: Tragic plane crash in California leaves six dead, sparks bushfire at incident site The decision to recapture Otter 841 has been made not only to protect surfers but also for the otter's own well-being. California sea otters, also known as southern sea otters, were once abundant along the California coast but were pushed to the brink of extinction due to aggressive fur hunting in the 19th century. With only around 3,000 remaining today, they are still considered an endangered species. So far, Otter 841 has managed to evade capture. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

VIDEO: Sea otter stuns Californian surfers by attacking them and stealing boards

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